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CES 2016 was bursting with a huge offering of new 4k monitors, TVs, tablets, even VR. In just three years, news about the viability of 4K has shifted from beta market testing to full embrace by the forward thinking tech buyer. CNET wondered as recently as 2013--"So how soon before the difference between a flagship 1080p TV and its like-size 4K TV brother becomes 'affordable?'" The same article listed a 55" LG 4k TV for $3,999 at 2013 prices; that model in 2016 has dropped to $999 retail.
Clearly, the market has made up its mind. 4k is coming, and pretty soon we will notice how 'bad' our old 1080 pixel resolution monitors look compared to the new, 4k Ultra HD TVs.
But is there enough content to make a purchase worth it no matter how competitive the price gets? You might remember when 1080 was introduced and it seemed as though half of content was still produced in a lower resolution. It took a while for video producers to have the confidence to invest in hi-res production equipment but now, it's rare to see video content in less than 1080p.
TechRadar provided a really comprehensive primer for consumers in May 2016 entitled, "4K TV and UHD: Everything you need to know about Ultra HD" which covered all the basics but noted, "What about 4K content? Can I get that? Yeah, about that... There's actually not much 4K content to be had right now." Yikes!
Like display technology, the price of production equipment is also falling as demand rises. The demand for 4k content will continue to increase so it's an ideal time for producers to start to look for equipment that will deliver.
Some tips for upping your filming game to 4k:
•The 4k UHD offers a resolution of 3840 pixels × 2160 pixels with 8.3 megapixels and aspect ratio of 16:9.
•Action/Sport Cameras are available in 4k and feature rugged construction, underwater capabilities, Wi-Fi remote control Android and iOS interfaces.
•Many new drone-mounted 4k cameras are available to the consumer and commercial buyer. These models are increasingly important to video production companies that offer Ultra HD aerial footage to clients.
•Many 4k DSLR cameras are available for professional photographers, and feature options such as compact design, remote control, video capabilities and changeable lens mounts.
•The "semi-pro" category (also known as "camcorders") is perfect for consumers who are ready to make a significant step up from filming on their phone camera. The category includes the venerable Sony Handycam, upgraded to 4K camcorders The amazing Pro category offers some impressive and highly advanced features for the professional film producer. Features of these models include XLR Audio Inputs, filters, editing functions, low-light/sensitivity settings, ultra high frame rate and 3D capability.
Whichever category suits your needs; there are plenty of models to choose from. Prices are dropping and will likely begin to reach equilibrium when market competition is fully engaged with buyers' needs. So now is a great time to shop for a 4k camera.The 4k world needs your content so get out there and start filming!