LAS VEGAS — At the 2019 CES show, here, Atomos (ww.atomos.com) is unveiling a new Apple ProRes RAW recording solution that is compatible with Nikon Z 7 and Z 6 full-frame mirrorless cameras. The Atomos Ninja V 4K HDR monitor/recorder is designed to record the ProRes RAW video format from the full frame mirrorless cameras, and is being shown at the Nikon booth.
Capturing ProRes RAW video unlocks complete control of the video image at the highest quality possible. The maximum dynamic range, color accuracy and detail are preserved, while at the same time, every aspect of the video image can be controlled with precision for maximum creativity. Colors can be easily matched and the extra information means footage can be easily be manipulated in post production, which is useful for grading and VFX shots.
Atomos and Nikon are offering video creators the new Z 6 Filmmaker’s kit, which was also announced at CES. The full-frame Nikon Z 6 camera is at the center of the kit, and is paired with the Atomos Ninja V monitor/recorder and other accessories. The combination can currently shoot full-frame video in 10-bit, 422 ProRes and DNx professional video formats, with ProRes RAW to be added.
“It’s a really exciting time for high quality cinematic video on every platform from Facebook to Netflix,” says Atomos CEO Jeromy Young. “Our customers are increasingly making their livings creating this content and we love giving them the affordable tools they need to do it. Our $695 Ninja V delivers better image quality without sacrificing amazing features like autofocus and high megapixel stills. Through partnering with great companies like Nikon, we have built solutions that are easy to use and look great.”
Until now, RAW video has been the domain of dedicated cinema cameras that are either limited in features or priced far beyond the reach of most consumers. Now Atomos is giving content creators the same quality and flexibility in video that they have come to expect from RAW photos.
The camera outputs a stream of RAW data via a 4K HDMI cable to the Ninja V. This data is then repacked into the ProRes RAW format and recorded to a removable SSD drive in the Ninja V. When shooting is finished, the drive is removed and connected to a computer via USB. Footage can then be debayered and edited in the highest possible quality. Using the ProRes RAW format keeps file sizes manageable, easy to edit and future-proof.
The Ninja V is a recorder with a touchscreen-controlled five-inch HDR monitor that allows the user to accurately expose and deliver cinematic quality from Log or RAW video. It has display modes for PQ and HLG HDR standards, plus standard video. Users can also load their own custom creative looks on the Ninja V. The high brightness 1000-nit screen can be easily viewed outside and provides users with the ability to view composition, focus and the exposure. The Ninja V runs Atomos’ own AtomOS operating system, with an intuitive user interface. A series of modules will allow for multi-camera sync, control and ethernet-based video transmission capabilities in the near future.