Comparison

BM Controller vs Photo ReTake

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

BM Controller

Wirelessly control compatible Blackmagic Design cameras using a dedicated API. Adjust essential camera settings like ISO, white balance, focus, and recording parameters in real-time for a streamlined video production workflow.

Highlights
  • Wireless camera control
  • Adjust camera settings
  • Real-time parameter adjustments
  • Audio level monitoring
  • Recording start/stop
  • Visual feedback system
Read full description

BM Controller is a powerful utility that lets you wirelessly control supported Blackmagic Design cameras using the Camera Control API. Built for reliability and speed, it gives filmmakers and creators a clean, responsive interface to adjust essential camera parameters in real time. Designed specifically for iPhone, BM Controller communicates with your Blackmagic camera over the network. Once connected, you can remotely access and configure a wide range of camera settings — without physically touching the hardware. The following models implement the same Camera Control API version (v1.0) and are supported: • Micro Studio Camera 4K G2 • Cinema Camera 6K • Studio Camera 4K Plus • Studio Camera 4K Plus G2 • Studio Camera 4K Pro • Studio Camera 4K Pro G2 • Studio Camera 6K Pro • URSA Broadcast G2 Note: These models are supported by the API specification. BM Controller interfaces with any compatible device using the documented endpoints but does not perform additional validation per model. Certain features, such as zoom or autofocus, depend on the physical capabilities of the camera and lens. If a lens does not support electronic zoom, the zoom control will not produce any effect. Core Features - Free Edition Single Device Control • Control one Blackmagic camera at a time with direct network communication. Comprehensive Camera Settings • Adjust shutter speed (with Auto), ISO, white balance, tint, aperture (with Auto), focus, zoom, focal length, gain, device codec, frame-rate, and off-speed recording. Audio Control • View and modify levels for two audio channels, and choose from available audio inputs per channel. Recording Control • Start and stop recordings, monitor recording status, and view real-time media availability. Visual Feedback System • Tally indicators and lock states alert you to external recordings or missing media. Built-In Support Resources • Includes a connectivity guide, accessories reference, and device compatibility list — all available from within the app. BM Controller App for the Video Production industry BM Controller is ideal for mobile content creators, videographers, and technicians working with Blackmagic Design cameras in live production or studio environments. Whether you’re working from a handheld rig or managing a remote setup, BM Controller streamlines your workflow and enhances camera interaction. Future Development We are actively working on new features, including multi-camera support, simultaneous device. These will be part of our upcoming Studio Edition — a premium upgrade designed for professionals who require greater flexibility and control. Stay tuned via the Resources tab for updates. All existing and planned features can be reviewed in the Resources tab under Release Notes.

About

Photo ReTake

Read full description

Photo ReTake allows you to choose an existing photo and set it as a backdrop under your live camera so you can recreate old memories, be more consistent with product shots for online marketplaces, or just make creative, fun photos in composite mode.

Screenshots

BM Controller4 screens
Photo ReTake4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is price: BM Controller at Free against Photo ReTake's $2.99. On ads, in-app purchases, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

BM Controller is free to download; Photo ReTake costs $2.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.

Scorecard1 real difference · 7 level
BM Controller versus Photo ReTake: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterBM ControllerPhoto ReTake
PriceFree — better$2.99
Rating5.0 (2 ratings) — better—
Number of ratings2 — better—
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesNoNo
MonetizationFree—
DevicesiPhoneiPhone
Requires iOS17.617.6
Further details — not scored
Size7 MB1 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperNovaly SolutionsANTHONY PAGANINI

In-app purchases

None

BM Controller

No in-app purchases

None

Photo ReTake

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is BM Controller free?
BM Controller is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Is Photo ReTake free?
Photo ReTake costs $2.99, with no in-app purchases.
Do BM Controller or Photo ReTake have ads?
Neither BM Controller nor Photo ReTake shows ads.

Other comparisons