Video Assist 12G supported frame rates with specific cameras

Usually I use my Lumix S5 with 25fps 5.9k 12-bit ProRES RAW to my Atomos Ninja V. No problem.

I’ve added the Fujifilm X-M5 as a super light travel camera capable of shooting 25 fps 6.2k 10-bit HLG/Flog2 open gate (6240x4160) h265 200 megabit/sec videos, that have a surprisingly good quality. Ideal for travel use.

It is less than ideal, that the Ninja V only supports up to 24 fps (no solution for use on 25fps timeline requirements on Ninja V). Newer or more potent models, than my trusted Ninja, like Ninja V+ etc support 25 fps. The 24fps open gate ProRES RAW looks gorgeous, so... maybe, just maybe, it pays to take a deeper look into using BRAW (X-M5 supports 25 fps and more 6.2k open gate to video assist but the bit about "frame rates" are somewhat murky).

Usually, that does not have any significance for travel use, but.... hey, if I ever need to rent a monitor-recorder somewhere, it would be nice to know, if I'm stuck with using Lumix S5 in a pinch.

Now, the camera also supports BRAW up to 29.97fps on the Video Assist 5 12G, but… does that cover 6.2k open gate (6240x4160) 25 fps over HDMI also? On both 12G models - the 5 inch is the most interesting for both Lumix 5 and Fujifilm X-M5.

Since my S5 supports HDMI Output to Video Assist too, why not look into using BRAW too?

I have found no camera manufacturer model frame rate list for the Video Assist models. At least nothing like the Atomos description, where you’re never in doubt.

Ninja V for Lumix S5: https://www.atomos.com/compatible-cameras/lumix-s5/
Ninja V for X-M5: https://www.atomos.com/compatible-cameras/x-m5/

Does Blackmagic publish similar info for the Video Assist critters?

I may have overlooked something (not the first time) on the Blackmagic site for Video Assist, but the data I found was more of general nature. I need specific data for my use case and confirmation of 25 fps open gate use.

Does anyone have a link, or has anyone even tried 25fps (or higher) 6.2k open gate via HDMI output to BRAW from a Fujifilm X-M5?

Regards

To the best of my understanding of the specs provided here: Blackmagic Video Assist - Tech Specs the Video Assist HDR (both 5" and 7") support up to 2160p60 via HDMI and in addition up to 4Kp30 DCI via SDI

To the best of my understanding of the specs provided here: Blackmagic Video Assist - Tech Specs the Video Assist HDR (both 5" and 7") support up to 2160p60 via HDMI and in addition up to 4Kp30 DCI via SDI

Thankyou for the link. I have seen it and looked at it in detail, but... that's more or less bog standard "ProRES 422 etc" support. Is BRAW really limited to only that on these Video Assist critters?

Here's what I have available on my old, almost ancient, Lumix S5 (most highest res RAW options actually in near exclusive use on my Ninja V

Actually available ProRES RAW formats on Ninja V

Skærmbillede 2025-01-21 kl. 22.06.25.png (100.29 KiB) Viewed 1898 times

Both Atomos Ninja V and Video Assist supported, but only Atomos specifies full details (including the 5.9k ProRES RAW formats and frame rates).

I use the PAL settings (mostly 5.9k) exclusively:

Actual settings used (PAL) extensively

Skærmbillede 2025-01-21 kl. 22.04.33.png (584.08 KiB) Viewed 1898 times

I have verified, that my X-M5 delivers 6240x4160 open gate (12bit seems correct) ProRES RAW at 24 fps to my Ninja V, and that is according to Atomos specs (see link in initial post). Newer models support up to 29.97 fps. So... the support is not in doubt (only need to verify 25fps on the chosen alternative before putting down the cash).

I'm actually editing some test footage this evening, to compare open gate 10-bit h265 4:2:2 to open gate 12-bit ProRES RAW on the same timeline, to evaluate quality and other differences using "moving overlap" on identical test footage.

For travel h265 is good enough (simplicity and in camera use, very small and lightweight also counts in all situations, where you don't control anything - not lighting, not color temperature, not available positions and certainly being pushed around.- like at or in the crowd of a carnival).

But when I'm in control, or if efforts really, really, really warrants using external recording gear, the choice is clear. I won't compromise on open gate use. If Video Assist is not capable of recording that at 25 fps or at all, I'll have to rent some Atomos critter, that handles the 25fps 12-bit open gate format (several), if that is required. Why settle for less (resolution and format choice).

Why?

I’m a sucker for wide screen formats like 24:9 or 23.5:9. By using 5888x3312 on Lumix s5 or open gate 6240 x 4160 on the X-M5, I get simple, and easy access to direct rendering (no crop and/or upscale) to “standard” 2160p resolution formats (5760x2160 or 5640x2160) - even leaving some wiggle room for other tasks (slight downscaling, non-centered crops, mild stabilization etc).

Since I plain hate the anamorphic look, I prefer this approach typically also delivering less “smudging” - especially in the corners (personal choice - as always YMMV

And open gate is far simpler in actual use.

Using the X-M5 - switching only cameras - cabling and adapted lenses and everything else remain the same as when using the Lumix S5 - even vertical 2160x3840 is suddently possible with the same tracks and mix, just applying and adjusting a different vertical framing regime for rendering a timeline copy or…. or.... Easy.

If this is not possible with Video Assist 12G, problem solved. No BRAW alternative.

But thank you for your trying to help. Much appreciated.

Regards

Would be kind of strange if BM is protecting their own gear by not supporting ProRes RAW in DR, but not competing for features against the Atomos device.

Would be kind of strange if BM is protecting their own gear by not supporting ProRes RAW in DR, but not competing for features against the Atomos device.

Yeah, but it sure does look that way.

Regards