Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) is a modern, high-performance video codec designed by Blackmagic Design that combines the visual quality and creative control of traditional RAW recording with the speed, ease of use, and small file sizes of standard video formats.
Unlike traditional RAW formats which are processor-heavy and produce massive files, BRAW uses an intelligent design that offloads part of the decompression process directly into the camera. This allows filmmaker beginners and professionals alike to edit high-resolution footage smoothly on everyday laptops without needing expensive hardware upgrades. Key Features of Blackmagic RAW
Intelligent Partial Decompression: The camera handles hardware-accelerated demosaicing, meaning your computer does less work during editing.
Advanced Metadata: Captures lens iris, shutter speed, ISO, white balance, and 3D LUTs directly into the file.
Cross-Platform & Free: The SDK is completely free, making it accessible on Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.
Resolution Independent: Scalable format that easily handles 4K, 6K, 8K, and even 12K resolutions.
Non-Destructive Editing: Changing settings like ISO or color temperature in post-production does not damage the original file pixels. How it Works: BRAW vs. Traditional Formats
To understand why BRAW is unique, it helps to compare it to standard formats: Traditional RAW Standard Codecs (ProRes / H.264) Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) File Size Small to Medium Small and Optimized CPU Usage High (Heavy stuttering) Low to Medium Low (Extremely smooth) Flexibility High (Full color control) Low (Baked-in color/white balance) High (Full color control) Processing Done entirely on computer Done entirely in camera Split between camera and computer
Two Ways to Save Space: Constant Bitrate vs. Constant Quality
BRAW gives you precise control over your file sizes through two distinct encoding types, allowing you to prioritize either predictable storage needs or perfect image fidelity. Constant Bitrate Options
These options limit the data rate to a specific maximum, ensuring you always know exactly how much recording time is left on your media cards:
12:1 & 8:1: Highest compression, smallest file sizes, ideal for long-form interviews or web content.
5:1 & 3:1: Lower compression, pristine quality, perfect for high-end cinema and heavy visual effects. Constant Quality Options
These options use variable bitrates, scaling the file size up or down depending on how complex the scene is (e.g., a detailed forest vs. a blank wall):
Q5: Efficient encoding that prioritizes storage savings while maintaining high quality.
Q0: Zero compromises, encoding at the highest possible quality required by the scene complexity. Software and Camera Compatibility
BRAW is designed to fit seamlessly into modern production workflows. You can shoot and edit it using a variety of gear and software platforms.
Editing Software: Fully integrated natively inside Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve. Plugins are also available to edit BRAW seamlessly inside Adobe Premiere Pro and Avid Media Composer.
Supported Cameras: Available natively on Blackmagic cameras like the Pocket Cinema Camera series, Cinema Camera 6K, and URSA Cine.
External Monitors: Can be recorded from third-party cameras (like Sony, Panasonic, or Fujifilm) when connected to a Blackmagic Video Assist monitor recorder.
If you are just getting started with video editing, would you like to know which free software to download to test BRAW, or do you want to learn how to adjust ISO and white balance in post-production? Saved time Comprehensive Inappropriate Not working
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