Blackmagic Camera ProDock brings pro production tools to iPhone

Blackmagic Design has released the Blackmagic Camera ProDock, a device designed to provide expanded production capabilities to the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

The Blackmagic Camera ProDock is engineered to integrate with the Blackmagic Camera app and introduce connections for external timecode, genlock, external audio, and USB-C disks for direct recording. These additions are intended to facilitate the use of the iPhone as a functional production camera in studio and on-set environments.

According to Blackmagic Design, the ProDock supports features relied upon in professional workflows including ProRes RAW recording and genlock capabilities. The device includes an array of connection options: HDMI for image monitoring, ports for microphones and headphones, genlock and timecode through professional BNC connectors, and USB-C for connecting both external disks and power supplies.

The company indicated that these features are intended to allow users to build custom rigs and connect their iPhone to equipment frequently used in high-end production, such as timecode generators and lens control accessories. The ProDock allows for integration into existing industry-standard setups, supporting workflows involving multiple cameras and synchronisation with LED walls for virtual production.

Sync and connectivity

With BNC connections, the ProDock brings support for external genlock and timecode to the latest iPhone models. Genlock is vital for synchronising video capture across devices, including other cameras and switchers, helping to prevent dropped frames and facilitating virtual production environments where the synchronisation of LED walls is necessary for consistent visual results.

Timecode support enables each camera in a multi-camera setup to begin and end recording independently. Editing platforms such as DaVinci Resolve can then accurately synchronise footage using the embedded timecode, streamlining post-production by removing the need for manual alignment of shots.

The dock is adaptable, with three USB-C ports designed for various accessories, from lens and camera controls to rapid external SSDs for recording high-bitrate files. The dock's power system is constructed to allow for simultaneous operation of multiple connected devices while supplying power to the iPhone itself.

Accessories and mounting

In terms of physical design, the dock provides 3.5mm jacks for both microphone input and headphone output and a full-size HDMI output to support monitoring on professional displays. There are also 1/4-20 pin lock mounting points on both the top and bottom surfaces to facilitate flexible rigging for handheld or larger setups, depending on production requirements.

The Blackmagic Camera ProDock is priced at USD $295 and is distributed via both Apple Store and Blackmagic Design resellers globally.

Workflow integration

The ProDock operates in conjunction with the Blackmagic Camera app, delivering a familiar interface for users accustomed to Blackmagic Design digital cinema cameras. Control over common digital film camera parameters - including frame rate, shutter angle, white balance, and ISO - can be accessed with a single tap on the touchscreen.

Recording can be performed directly to Blackmagic Cloud using ProRes and ProRes RAW formats, with support up to 4K resolution. Blackmagic Cloud functionality enables real-time collaboration on DaVinci Resolve projects, allowing geographically separated editors to work simultaneously.

"iPhone has become an incredibly powerful tool for filmmaking and with new features like genlock, the possibilities continue to expand," said Grant Petty, Blackmagic Design CEO. "The new Blackmagic Camera ProDock brings even more flexibility by adding the professional connections filmmakers expect from a cinema camera to iPhone. When used with Blackmagic Camera, customers also get digital film camera controls, making it the perfect device for multicam and virtual productions. We can't wait to see how customers are now able to use iPhone in their productions!"

The Blackmagic Camera ProDock supports multi-camera syncing via genlock for virtual production, external timecode input for easier post-production alignment, as well as audio and video expansion for a complete production workflow. Its inclusion of features such as locking 12V DC input, USB-C expansion ports and mounting options is intended to ensure compatibility with a broad spectrum of film and broadcast equipment.