Control Interface Behavior

BM Controller displays the full set of camera controls regardless of hardware compatibility. However, changes only apply if the camera and lens support the feature. For example, some lenses may not respond to digital focus, zoom, or iris adjustments.

Lens and Hardware Dependencies

Features like autofocus, powered zoom, and auto-iris rely on electronic lenses. The app cannot enable functions that the hardware does not expose via the API, even if the interface appears active.

API-Based Limitations

BM Controller relies entirely on Blackmagic’s Camera Control API (v1.0). Some camera models may omit specific endpoints or return no data in certain states (e.g. during media formatting or low battery). These are not bugs in the app but reflect hardware limitations.

Expected Media Behavior

Recording controls are locked when no valid media is inserted. Additionally, if external recording is triggered (e.g., from an ATEM switcher), the app will display a locked recording state with contextual messages explaining why direct control is disabled.