Blackmagic Design PYXIS 12K Cinema Camera

Blackmagic Design PYXIS 12K Cinema Camera – Full-Frame 12K Resolution, 16-Stop Dynamic Range, High-Speed Recording, and Professional Cine Workflow Efficiency

The first frame will hit you like a memory you haven’t made yet. The Blackmagic Design PYXIS 12K Cinema Camera is built for filmmakers who refuse compromise, delivering a breathtaking 12K (12,288 × 8,040) full-frame large-format image from a 35.64 × 23.32 mm RGBW sensor with up to 16 stops of dynamic range, so every shot you capture explodes with detail, color accuracy and nuanced highlight roll-off that cheaper cameras simply can’t touch. Designed as a rugged, modular box-style body in CNC-machined aluminum, the PYXIS 12K is ready to rig any way you work—on gimbals, drones, car rigs, cranes or multi-cam studio builds—with multiple 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 mounting points and interchangeable side plates that make it easy to add handles, cages, wireless systems and SSD mounts while still keeping a compact profile that clients love on set.

You’re not locked into one lens ecosystem either: choose the version that fits your workflow—L-Mount for modern full-frame primes and zooms, EF for your existing Canon glass, or PL for premium cine lenses—and enjoy advanced electronic control on supported lenses, including smooth iris adjustment, responsive autofocus and lens metadata capture, so you can move faster on commercial sets, narrative shoots and high-pressure live environments. Under the hood, the PYXIS delivers insane flexibility: shoot open-gate 3:2 for VFX and reframing, pristine 12K 17:9 for cinema delivery, 12K 2.4:1 for anamorphic-style wides, or drop to 9K Super 35 windows and 8K/4K full-sensor scaled modes—all while pushing serious frame rates, up to 40 fps in 12K open gate, 60 fps in 12K 2.4:1 and a blistering 112 fps in 8K/4K 2.4:1, giving you slow-motion options without sacrificing resolution or latitude.

Recording to 12-bit Blackmagic RAW, you keep maximum color depth and flexibility for grading in DaVinci Resolve Studio (included with the camera), with both Constant Quality (Q0, Q1, Q3, Q5) and Constant Bitrate (3:1, 5:1, 8:1, 12:1, 18:1) options so you can fine-tune data rates to your storage budget; at the same time, the camera automatically generates lightweight 1080p H.264 proxies, letting you hand off edit-ready files instantly to clients, editors or remote teams while retaining the full-quality BRAW masters for finishing. Dual CFexpress Type-B card slots and high-speed USB-C support ensure you can record extremely high data rates reliably, while ExFAT and HFS+ file system compatibility mean your media drops straight into Mac or Windows workflows with zero friction. On set, the integrated 4" 1920 × 1080 HDR touchscreen with 1500-nit brightness gives you a clear, daylight-viewable image plus intuitive touch menus, assisted by physical buttons and three customizable function keys so you can quickly punch in focus, toggle LUTs, change frame rate or switch codecs without digging through complex menus—perfect when clients are breathing down your neck and time literally is money.

Audio is no afterthought either: a mini-XLR input with phantom power, 3.5 mm stereo input, built-in stereo mics and headphone out let you capture high-quality production sound directly in camera, saving you sync time in post on fast-turnaround jobs like branded content, events and social campaigns. For professional productions, the built-in timecode generator (with ultra-low drift) and tri-sync/black burst input make multi-camera sync clean and dependable, while the 12G-SDI output supports up to 2160p60 monitoring or live broadcast workflows, allowing the PYXIS 12K to double as a hero camera on high-end streaming or studio shows. Where this camera really separates itself from the competition is its network and cloud workflow: with 10GbE Ethernet on board plus Web Media Manager, SMB and FTP file sharing, and Blackmagic Cloud integration, you can offload clips to your network, sync bins to remote editors and manage media from a browser, radically reducing turnaround times on commercial jobs where every hour of post-production counts.

Powering all this is a flexible system built around Sony BP-U batteries or included 18 V DC power, so you can run all day on set with common, reliable power solutions, and the robust 0–40 °C operating range means the camera is ready for harsh real-world environments—from hot exterior shoots to cold overnight location work. If you want to buy a camera that doesn’t just tick spec boxes but genuinely elevates your production value, impresses clients, and future-proofs your work with enormous 12K resolution, cinematic dynamic range and a workflow tuned for real-world production speed, the Blackmagic Design PYXIS 12K Cinema Camera should be at the top of your shortlist—buy the PYXIS 12K today and start delivering images that look more expensive, grade more beautifully and sell your services more effectively on every single project.

Product Benefits:

• Capture breathtaking clarity with a true 12K full-frame sensor that preserves every detail, making your work instantly stand out to clients.
• Achieve cinematic depth and emotion thanks to 16 stops of dynamic range that protect highlights and shadows in challenging lighting.
• Win more high-end projects by delivering footage that matches premium cine-camera standards without the premium-camera price.
• Shoot with total creative freedom using flexible formats—12K open gate, 9K S35, 8K/4K scaled—and push higher frame rates up to 112 fps.
• Boost your production speed with simultaneous BRAW + H.264 proxies, giving editors instant access and cutting hours from turnaround time.
• Build confidence on set with a bright 1500-nit touchscreen, tactile controls and fast menu navigation that keep you in control under pressure.
• Work in any lens ecosystem (L-Mount, EF, or PL), letting you use the glass you already own or step into professional cine optics.
• Reduce post-production headaches with clean metadata, accurate timecode sync and DaVinci Resolve Studio included at no extra cost.
• Stay production-ready anywhere using CFexpress, USB-C external media and efficient power options built for long shooting days.
• Deliver visuals that move people—footage that looks richer, sharper and more cinematic, elevating your brand and commanding higher rates.

Features:

Full-Frame 12K Resolution for Maximum Detail

The PYXIS 12K’s massive 12,288 × 8,040 full-frame sensor captures extraordinary sharpness, color integrity and fine texture that smaller formats can’t match. This level of resolution gives filmmakers more creative headroom—allowing punch-ins, stabilisation, cropping, reframing and VFX compositing without degrading image quality. Whether you’re shooting commercials, narrative films or high-end content, 12K footage delivers a premium look that instantly elevates your brand and makes your work stand out in competitive markets.

16 Stops of Dynamic Range for Cinematic Latitude

With a wide 16-stop dynamic range, the camera preserves highlight detail and shadow richness even in extreme lighting conditions. This means sunlit exteriors, night scenes and mixed-light environments retain natural contrast and tonality. The result is emotionally engaging imagery with smoother highlight roll-off and film-like transitions—something clients and audiences subconsciously perceive as “cinematic.” Your final footage holds up in professional color grading, giving you enormous control over the mood and look of your project.

Advanced RGBW Large-Format Sensor Architecture

The PYXIS uses a full-frame RGBW sensor—red, green, blue and white photosites—to boost light efficiency, dynamic range and color accuracy. This architecture ensures clean images with minimal noise, even at higher ISOs. Combined with its generous sensor size, the camera achieves beautiful depth-of-field separation and smoother bokeh, making it ideal for storytelling, high-end advertising and luxury brand cinematography.

Multi-Format Shooting with Open Gate Versatility

Shoot 3:2 open gate for maximum sensor usage, 6:5 for anamorphic workflows, 17:9 for cinematic delivery, or switch to windowed 9K Super 35 for versatility with different lens systems. Full-sensor 8K and 4K scaled modes give you flexibility without sacrificing the large-format aesthetic. This adaptability allows filmmakers to handle multiple production types—from feature films to social content—with one camera system, avoiding costly rentals or multiple body purchases.

High-Speed Capture Up to 112 FPS

The PYXIS 12K offers frame rates up to 40 fps in 12K open gate, 60 fps in 12K 2.4:1, and an impressive 112 fps in 8K/4K 2.4:1. These high-speed options allow filmmakers to produce smooth slow-motion that enhances emotion, tension or visual impact. Whether shooting sports, fashion, product cinematics or action sequences, the camera ensures that motion feels fluid, detailed and free from artifacts.

Three Professional Lens Mount Options

Choose between L-Mount, EF or PL depending on your lens ecosystem. L-Mount offers access to modern full-frame primes and zooms, EF supports widely available Canon lenses, and PL unlocks professional cine glass from ARRI, Zeiss and Cooke. This ensures you’re never locked into one system, can reuse your existing lenses, and can scale into higher-end productions without replacing your entire optical lineup.

BRAW + 1080p Proxy Recording for Speed and Efficiency

Simultaneous 12-bit Blackmagic RAW and real-time 1080p H.264 proxy recording is a game changer for fast-paced shoots and collaborative environments. Editors can begin cutting immediately using lightweight proxies while colorists and VFX teams work from pristine BRAW masters. This drastically reduces post-production bottlenecks and helps filmmakers meet tight deadlines without compromising quality.

Dual CFexpress and USB-C External Media Support

The camera’s dual CFexpress Type-B slots provide the high bandwidth required for 12K BRAW compression ratios. For even longer takes or direct-to-edit workflows, the USB-C port allows recording to external SSDs. This gives filmmakers flexible, cost-effective media options—essential for production environments that require continuous shooting or rapid card turnover.

10GbE Networking for Instant Cloud and Shared Storage Workflows

The built-in 10GbE Ethernet port enables fast file transfers, remote access, FTP/SMB sharing and Blackmagic Cloud integration. This means you can upload proxies directly to remote teams, offload media to a NAS, or manage files from any browser without removing cards. Productions that rely on rapid delivery—agencies, studios, live event teams—gain a major competitive advantage with this streamlined workflow.

Daylight-Viewable 4" 1500-Nit Touchscreen

The PYXIS features a bright 1500-nit touchscreen, allowing accurate monitoring outdoors without external monitors. The 1920 × 1080 display provides sharp focus checking, LUT previewing and menu navigation. During high-pressure shoots, this reduces setup time and helps operators make quick, confident decisions.

Professional Connectivity for Broadcast and Cinema

With 12G-SDI output up to 2160p60, tri-sync/black burst input, timecode I/O, mini-XLR audio and USB-C control, the PYXIS 12K integrates seamlessly into broadcast studios, multi-cam productions and professional cinema rigs. This makes it versatile enough for both cinematic storytelling and live or studio-based content.

Modular Box-Style Body for Deep Rigging Flexibility

The compact rectangular form factor, CNC-machined aluminum body and multiple mounting points make the PYXIS ideal for gimbals, drones, cranes, car rigs and custom cages. Filmmakers can build the camera up or strip it down, depending on the job. The body’s professional durability also ensures reliable performance in demanding environments.

DaVinci Resolve Studio Included for End-to-End Workflow

Every PYXIS 12K includes DaVinci Resolve Studio—valued by professionals for its color grading, editing, VFX and audio post capabilities. Combined with BRAW metadata, this gives filmmakers a seamless shooting-to-finish pipeline without additional software costs. It’s one of the strongest end-to-end workflows in the industry.

• Feature Film Production – Capture stunning cinematic visuals with full-frame 12K resolution and 16-stop dynamic range for high-end narrative filmmaking.
• Commercial & Advertising Work – Deliver ultra-detailed product shots and premium commercial imagery that elevate brand campaigns and attract high-value clients.
• Documentary Filmmaking – Shoot in challenging lighting conditions while maintaining exceptional detail and dynamic range for emotionally compelling storytelling.
• Music Videos & Creative Content – Produce visually striking, stylized footage with high frame rates, open gate formats and flexible aspect ratios.
• Luxury, Automotive & Fashion Cinematography – Use the 12K clarity and large-format look to enhance texture, color and subject separation for visually rich brand visuals.
• Streaming, Broadcast & Studio Production – Integrate with 12G-SDI, timecode sync and 10GbE networking for multi-cam, live or studio environments.
• VFX, CGI, and Green Screen Work – Utilize 12K open gate for cleaner keys, higher-resolution plates and advanced post-production workflows.
• Aerial Cinematography & Drone Filming – Pair the compact box-style body with drones for stable, high-resolution aerial shots.
• Gimbal & Steadicam Operations – Light, modular design ensures balance and flexibility for dynamic movement shots.
• Virtual Production & LED Volume Filming – High detail and accurate color reproduction ensure clean integration into virtual environments.
• Corporate, Event & Branded Content – Fast proxy workflows and robust connectivity support rapid turnarounds for business, social and event productions.
• Independent Filmmaking – Deliver big-budget image quality at an accessible price, enabling indie creators to compete at a professional level.

Pros

• Delivers extraordinary 12K full-frame resolution for maximum detail and reframing flexibility.
• 16 stops of dynamic range ensures cinematic highlight roll-off and strong low-light performance.
• RGBW sensor architecture provides improved color accuracy and light efficiency.
• Multiple shooting formats (12K, 9K S35, 8K/4K scaled, open gate, anamorphic) for unmatched versatility.
• High-speed capture up to 112 fps allows smooth, cinematic slow motion across formats.
• Offers L-Mount, EF, and PL variants supporting a wide range of lens ecosystems.
• Simultaneous BRAW + H.264 proxy recording accelerates post-production workflows.
• Dual CFexpress slots and USB-C external recording support high-bandwidth data needs.
• Built-in 10GbE networking enables rapid file transfers and cloud collaboration.
• Compact box-style design allows easy rigging for gimbals, drones, and studio setups.
• Bright 1500-nit 4" touchscreen ensures reliable monitoring in daylight.
• Includes DaVinci Resolve Studio for a complete professional post-production pipeline.
• Strong timecode accuracy and SDI connectivity for multi-camera sync and broadcast workflows.
• Rugged CNC-machined aluminum body suited for demanding production environments.

Cons

• High data rates in 12K require expensive, fast CFexpress media and large storage capacity.
• Full-frame 12K workflows demand powerful editing hardware to handle large files.
• Autofocus performance varies depending on lens mount and supported lenses.
• No built-in ND filters requiring external NDs or matte box setups.
• Box-style form factor may require additional accessories for handheld use.
• Limited onboard audio inputs compared to larger cinema cameras.
• Battery life depends heavily on BP-U series requiring multiple batteries for long shoots.
• 12K resolution may be excessive for some projects, increasing workflow demands unnecessarily.

• Effective Sensor Size: 35.64mm × 23.32mm (Full-Frame Large Format)
• Sensor Resolution: 12,288 × 8,040 (12K 3:2 Open Gate)
• Pixel Pitch: 2.9 µm
• Dynamic Range: 16 Stops
• Native ISO: ISO 800 (Usable 200–3200; Extended up to ~25,600)
• Sensor Type: Full-frame RGBW architecture
• 12K Recording Modes:
  • 12,288 × 8,040 (3:2 Open Gate)
  • 12,288 × 6,912 (16:9)
  • 12,288 × 6,480 (17:9)
  • 12,288 × 5,112 (2.4:1)
  • 9,648 × 8,040 (6:5 Anamorphic)
• 9K Recording Modes (Super 35 Window):
  • 9,408 × 6,264 (3:2)
  • 8,688 × 4,896 (16:9)
  • 9,312 × 4,896 (17:9)
  • 9,312 × 3,864 (2.4:1)
  • 7,680 × 6,408 (6:5)
• 8K Full-Sensor Scaled:
  • 8,192 × 5,360 (3:2)
  • 8,192 × 4,608 (16:9)
  • 8,192 × 4,320 (17:9)
  • 8,192 × 3,408 (2.4:1)
  • 6,432 × 5,360 (6:5)
• 4K Full-Sensor Scaled:
  • 4,096 × 2,680 (3:2)
  • 4,096 × 2,304 (16:9)
  • 4,096 × 2,160 (17:9)
  • 4,096 × 1,704 (2.4:1)
  • 3,216 × 2,680 (6:5)
• Supported Project Frame Rates: 23.98 / 24 / 25 / 29.97 / 30 / 50 / 59.94 / 60 fps
• Maximum Sensor Frame Rates:
  • 12K 3:2 – Up to 40 fps
  • 12K 16:9 – Up to 45 fps
  • 12K 17:9 – Up to 50 fps
  • 12K 2.4:1 – Up to 60 fps
  • 12K 6:5 – Up to 40 fps
  • 9K 3:2 – Up to 50 fps
  • 9K 16:9 – Up to 65 fps
  • 9K 17:9 – Up to 65 fps
  • 9K 2.4:1 – Up to 80 fps
  • 9K 6:5 – Up to 50 fps
  • 8K/4K 3:2 – Up to 72 fps
  • 8K/4K 16:9 – Up to 84 fps
  • 8K/4K 17:9 – Up to 90 fps
  • 8K/4K 2.4:1 – Up to 112 fps
  • 8K/4K 6:5 – Up to 72 fps
• Available Mounts: L-Mount (Active), EF (Locking), PL (Cinema)
• Lens Control: Electronic iris, autofocus (supported lenses), metadata capture
• Primary Codec: Blackmagic RAW (12-bit)
• BRAW Constant Bitrate: 3:1, 5:1, 8:1, 12:1, 18:1
• BRAW Constant Quality: Q0, Q1, Q3, Q5
• Proxy Recording: 1080p H.264 (8-bit 4:2:0) simultaneous
• Media Slots: Dual CFexpress Type-B
• External Recording: USB-C to external SSD or flash storage
• Supported File Systems: ExFAT, HFS+
• Storage Rates (12K 24fps):
  • 3:1 – ~1,194 MB/s
  • 8:1 – ~448 MB/s
  • 12:1 – ~299 MB/s
  • 18:1 – ~199 MB/s
• Storage Rates (9K 24fps):
  • 3:1 – ~714 MB/s
  • 8:1 – ~268 MB/s
  • 12:1 – ~179 MB/s
  • 18:1 – ~119 MB/s
• Storage Rates (8K 24fps):
  • 3:1 – ~533 MB/s
  • 5:1 – ~320 MB/s
  • 8:1 – ~200 MB/s
  • 12:1 – ~133 MB/s
• Storage Rates (4K 24fps):
  • 3:1 – ~135 MB/s
  • 4:1 – ~101 MB/s
  • 5:1 – ~81 MB/s
  • 6:1 – ~68 MB/s
• Built-In Display: 4-inch LCD touchscreen, 1920 × 1080 resolution, 1500 nits
• Viewfinder Support: USB-C for PYXIS Monitor / URSA Cine EVF
• Audio Inputs: 1 × mini-XLR (mic/line, phantom power), 1 × 3.5mm stereo input
• Audio Outputs: 3.5mm headphone jack, built-in mono speaker
• Built-In Mics: Stereo microphones
• Video Outputs: 1 × 12G-SDI (up to 2160p60)
• Reference Input: Tri-Sync / Black Burst & Timecode
• Remote Control: USB-C PTP, Bluetooth, Ethernet REST API
• Networking: 10GbE RJ-45 (FTP, SMB, Cloud Sync, Web Media Manager)
• Included Software: DaVinci Resolve Studio, Blackmagic OS, RAW Player, RAW SDK, Camera Setup, RAW Speed Test
• Supported Operating Systems: macOS 14+, macOS 15+, Windows 10 & 11
• External Power: 2-pin LEMO-style 18V DC
• Battery Compatibility: Sony BP-U Series
• Included Power Supply: 18V 90W PSU with international adapters
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
• Storage Temperature: -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F)
• Relative Humidity: 0%–90% non-condensing
• Body Material: CNC-machined aerospace aluminum
• Dimensions: 106 × 119 × 151 mm (Approx.)
• Weight: ~1.5 kg (Body only)
• Included Items:
  • PYXIS 12K Camera Body (Mount Variant)
  • Lens Turret Dust Cap
  • PYXIS Standard Plate
  • PYXIS SSD Plate
  • 90W Power Supply
  • International AC Adapter Set
  • Welcome Booklet
  • DaVinci Resolve Studio Activation Key

• Blackmagic Design PYXIS 12K Cinema Camera Body (Mount Variant)
• Lens Turret Dust Cap
• PYXIS Standard Plate
• PYXIS SSD Plate
• 90W Power Supply with Locking Connector
• International AC Adapter Set
• Welcome Booklet
• DaVinci Resolve Studio Activation Key

What makes the Blackmagic Design PYXIS 12K Cinema Camera stand out?

The PYXIS 12K stands out for its full-frame 12K RGBW sensor, 16-stop dynamic range, professional recording formats, and a compact box-style body designed for high-end cinema workflows, VFX, commercials, and multi-camera productions. Its unmatched flexibility and resolution make it one of the most advanced cameras in its class.

Which lens mounts are available for the PYXIS 12K?

The camera is available in three mount options: L-Mount for modern full-frame lenses, EF for Canon photography and cine lenses, and PL for industry-standard cinema lenses from ARRI, Cooke, Zeiss, and others.

Can the PYXIS 12K shoot slow motion?

Yes. The camera supports high-speed frame rates up to 112 fps in 8K/4K 2.4:1, 80 fps in 9K, and up to 60 fps in 12K 2.4:1. This offers smooth, cinematic slow-motion options without sacrificing image quality.

What recording formats does the camera support?

It records in Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) 12-bit in both Constant Quality (Q0, Q1, Q3, Q5) and Constant Bitrate (3:1, 5:1, 8:1, 12:1, 18:1) modes. It also generates simultaneous 1080p H.264 proxies for faster editing workflows.

Does it support external media recording?

Yes. Alongside dual CFexpress Type-B slots, the PYXIS 12K features USB-C for direct recording to external SSDs or flash media, making it ideal for long takes and high-data-rate recording.

Is the camera suitable for VFX and green screen work?

Absolutely. Its 12K open-gate modes, high color fidelity, and 16-stop dynamic range produce exceptionally clean plates ideal for compositing, chroma keying, and virtual production workflows.

Can the PYXIS 12K be used for live production?

Yes. With 12G-SDI output up to 2160p60, timecode input, tri-sync/black burst support, and 10GbE networking, the camera integrates easily into multi-camera broadcast and studio environments.

Does the camera include DaVinci Resolve Studio?

Yes. Every PYXIS 12K includes a full DaVinci Resolve Studio activation key, enabling advanced editing, grading, VFX, and audio post-production without needing additional software.

How durable is the PYXIS 12K for field production?

The camera is built from CNC-machined aerospace-grade aluminum with multiple mounting points, making it rugged enough for gimbals, drones, car rigs, and demanding outdoor shoots.

What power options does the camera support?

The PYXIS 12K supports Sony BP-U series batteries and includes an 18V locking power supply. Its 12–18V operating range allows compatibility with external V-mount or Gold-mount power systems.

Who is the PYXIS 12K ideal for?

This camera is perfect for filmmakers, commercial production houses, cinematographers, VFX teams, drone and gimbal operators, and studios requiring premium large-format imagery and future-proofed resolution.