Blackmagic PYXIS 12K
My First Cinema Camera & Honest First Impressions
I’ve been creating for a long time, but this moment hits a little differently. For the first time ever, I’ve officially stepped into the cinema camera world. After years of shooting on hybrid systems, bouncing between Lumix and Leica, I finally made the jump and picked up the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K.
This wasn’t just another gear purchase. It’s the start of a new chapter in how I create, tell stories, and approach my work as a photographer and videographer.
Why I Decided to Buy a Cinema Camera
Over the past few years, I’ve focused more and more on storytelling through video — especially around chefs, restaurants, lifestyle moments, and documentary-style work in Philadelphia. Hybrid cameras have been incredible tools for that, but there were always limitations.
I found myself reaching for one camera to shoot photo, another to get better video, and constantly making trade-offs between image quality, codecs, rigging options, and creative control. I love my hybrid setups… but I wanted something built from the ground up just for filmmaking.
That’s where the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K comes in.
This camera isn’t just another spec sheet flex. It’s designed to be a true workhorse — a cinema camera with a compact, flexible body, Blackmagic’s color science, and some seriously powerful recording capabilities.
Why the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K
I’ll be honest — this decision was part practical, part emotional. I’ve been watching other creators like Kofi, whose work and breakdowns really helped me understand what’s possible when you lean into a proper cinema workflow.
For me, it came down to:
Image quality and color. The new sensor inside the PYXIS 12K is the same as the URSA 12K. It offers incredible dynamic range and detail.
Flexibility. I can rig it up for serious commercial shoots or keep it minimal for run-and-gun work.
Value for performance. At around $6,000, it delivers features usually found on much more expensive systems.
Local availability. I actually got mine from a local camera store in Philly. They had zero pre-orders for the camera, so I basically skipped the waitlist entirely. (Shop local — seriously.)
My Current Rig Setup
While this is my first cinema camera, I’m not coming in empty-handed. I’ve built out a lightweight, run-and-gun rig that makes the PYXIS easier to handle on shoots.
Here’s what I’m currently running:
Camera: Blackmagic PYXIS 12K
Cage: Tilta Full Cage with top handle and SSD holder
Battery: Core BPU (on sale when I grabbed it)
Focus: DJI LiDAR system for autofocus and manual support
Lens: Blazar 50mm 1.5x anamorphic
Media: Samsung T7 SSD 2TB
I didn’t want a massive shoulder rig setup — I wanted something I could move with. Something I could bring into kitchens, onto the street, or inside a small restaurant without feeling like I’m setting up a full production.
First Impressions After Unboxing
The moment I powered it on, the PYXIS reminded me why Blackmagic’s OS gets so much love. It’s simple, intuitive, and doesn’t fight you. There’s no digging through endless menus. I was up and running fast.
The body itself is compact, solid, and balanced. With the Tilta cage and Core battery, it feels sturdy but not overwhelming. I can tell right away this camera is going to live on my rig for a long time.
I also love that I didn’t have to buy every accessory from scratch. Since I previously owned a Blackmagic 6K, some of the pieces carried over seamlessly.
What I Haven’t Tested Yet (But Will)
I haven’t rolled any 12K footage yet — this first video and post are about the decision and the setup. But here’s what I’ll be diving into in the next few weeks:
12K Open Gate and 8K/4K real-world tests, including recording performance, playback quirks, and compression options
Color grading in DaVinci Resolve and testing dynamic range and grading flexibility
Workflow and storage strategy for managing large files and SSD speeds
Battery life and heat performance on real shoots
Honest pros and cons after extended use
My goal isn’t to make this sound perfect. I want to document the real experience of moving from hybrid systems to a cinema camera.
Why I Think the PYXIS 12K Is Important
Blackmagic made a smart move with the PYXIS. It’s not trying to be a pocket camera. It’s not trying to be a RED. It’s something in between — a cinema system that doesn’t lock you into a crazy ecosystem.
For creators like me who shoot a mix of documentary, food and hospitality, and studio work, this camera sits at a sweet spot. It gives you room to grow without forcing you to go all-in on a $20K build.
And since there’s not a ton of content out there yet, I’m excited to be part of that early wave of creators exploring what this camera can really do.
Final Thoughts (For Now)
This isn’t a review. It’s a starting point. I don’t know everything about this camera yet — but I’m excited to learn, test, and create with it.
If you’ve been thinking about the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K, I’ll be documenting this journey step by step: the good, the bad, and everything in between.
If you want to follow along:
Instagram: @byjfrancois
Website: byjfrancois.com
YouTube:
Got questions about the PYXIS? Drop them in the comments or DM me. I’ll be covering real-world tests in Part 2.