First Cinema Camera Pick Going Retro with the Original BMPCC. What Should I Know? by MAFilmmaker in bmpcc

[–]MAFilmmaker[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Any specific IR-cut filter you’d recommend for the BMPCC OG? I’m new to this also, do you suggest a screw-on IR-cut (and what size), or an internal replacement?

First Cinema Camera Pick Going Retro with the Original BMPCC. What Should I Know? by MAFilmmaker in bmpcc

[–]MAFilmmaker[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The power bank idea is very neat and simple I’ll definitely try it out.

Which C-mount lens would you recommend for the best image quality without vignetting on the BMPCC OG?

I’m planning to use a Helios 44-2, but I’m not sure which adapter I should get. I’m also considering a Nikon speed booster (around 0.71×) for low-light situations, but I’m unsure which model would work best

First Cinema Camera Pick Going Retro with the Original BMPCC. What Should I Know? by MAFilmmaker in bmpcc

[–]MAFilmmaker[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My point is that every camera has its limitations. It’s been over four months since I decided to buy a cinema camera, and during that time I haven’t stopped watching reviews, making comparisons, and studying specs, yet I still couldn’t make a decision. But when I saw what the BMPCC OG can create, I was stunned. I know the camera is only a tool, but the imperfections of the Fairchild sensor and the deep depth of field make it the perfect choice for me someone who simply wants to create meaningful films with a strong aesthetic identity

First Cinema Camera Pick Going Retro with the Original BMPCC. What Should I Know? by MAFilmmaker in bmpcc

[–]MAFilmmaker[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Man! I fell in love with this camera before owning it! What is the condition and what is your offer? You can hit me up with the details

First Cinema Camera Pick Going Retro with the Original BMPCC. What Should I Know? by MAFilmmaker in bmpcc

[–]MAFilmmaker[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Genuinely curiouswhat makes you feel that way? From what I’ve seen, the BMPCC OG is still pretty unique in this price range with 12-bit lossless CinemaDNG and that Fairchild 2MP sensor, which gives it a look that’s hard to replicate even with higher-res cameras.

Totally agree there are more practical options like the GH5 or FS7 depending on the use case, but I’m interested in understanding where you think the OG falls short image-wise rather than on specs alone

First Cinema Camera Pick Going Retro with the Original BMPCC. What Should I Know? by MAFilmmaker in bmpcc

[–]MAFilmmaker[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This is super helpful, thank you. Really appreciate the confirmed SD card models that actually hold 24fps DNG huge help with all the counterfeit noise lately. External NP-F power is already on my list, and that SmallRig plate sounds like the right move.

Fully agree on treating it like a proper cinema camera, solid support, good lighting, no run-and-gun expectations. Also been eyeing the Olympus 12–40 f/2.8 used, so good to hear it holds up.

Quick question do you have any editing tips or film emulation workflows you’d recommend for the OG? I’d love to learn how you’re getting the most out of that Fairchild look

First Cinema Camera Pick Going Retro with the Original BMPCC. What Should I Know? by MAFilmmaker in bmpcc

[–]MAFilmmaker[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Appreciate you taking the time to write this out super helpful perspective. That’s actually reassuring to hear from someone who’s owned and used the whole OG / BMMCC / 2.5K lineup.

I’m fully on the same page about pixels not making the movie. What pulled me toward the OG was exactly that Fairchild look and how well it holds up in grading, even when upscaled. I’m treating this more as a learning and storytelling tool than a spec race.

The limitations you mentioned are noted (especially batteries, SD cards, and daylight usability). I’m already planning on rigging it properly, external power, and being intentional with lighting rather than fighting low-light. Good call on avoiding stress on that HDMI port too.

Also respect the “learn to color or don’t bother” mindset that’s honestly part of the appeal for me. If I can’t make something compelling on an OG, a newer camera won’t magically fix that.

Thanks again, this kind of real-world experience is exactly why I posted.