8-bit vs. 12-bit. Why the Blackmagic Cinema Camera comes out on top.

There has been a lot of discussion lately about if you really need 12-bit over 8-bit in regards to post work in HD video. There is an amazing video from OneRiver Media which I think will really put an end to this debate once and for all. They have done a great job showing how far you can truly push RAW in post and how much control it gives you:

For best results download the video from VIMEO. Or you can just stream it below:


Comparing the Cinema Camera: Part 2, The Impact of 12-bit RAW from OneRiver Media on Vimeo.

There are lot of great 8-bit cameras out there including the Canon C300, Panasonic GH3 and the Canon 5D Mark 3. However after watching this video it is clear that for total image control in regards to exposure and colour correction, nothing holds a candle to 12-bit RAW as demonstrated in the Blackmagic Cinema Camera when grading in post.

I think these next two videos demonstrate the advantage of 12bit over 8bit more than anything. Check out the two below videos. Look how well they manage to keep the sky and the snow covered ground exposed demonstrates the 12-bit's RAW ability to allow you to grade sky and foreground evenly to show maximum detail.


Black Magic Cinema Camera Test Footage -Before Grading- from Kei Takahashi on Vimeo.


and the after footage:


Black Magic Cinema Camera Test Footage -After Grading- from Kei Takahashi on Vimeo.

Really beautiful footage.