The Sony FX3 is engineered with a compact design tailored for individual operators, travel purposes, and as an excellent secondary camera. It integrates elements from both the Cinema Line and Alpha series, resulting in a highly portable cinema camera. The FX3 encompasses all the imaging capabilities typical of its category while presenting a new lightweight, handheld structure characterized by a sleek profile and a "cage-free" design that allows for the direct attachment of various accessories to the camera body.
Expressive UHD 4K Video Capture
The FX3 features a 12.1MP Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor, which provides 10.2MP effective resolution in video mode, and is complemented by a BIONZ XR processor. This combination enables the capture of UHD 4K video with internal 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling or 16-bit raw output. The back-illuminated design of the sensor enhances both clarity and sensitivity, offering an ISO range that can be expanded from 80 to 409,600, along with a dynamic range exceeding 15 stops, making it suitable for various lighting conditions. The S-Cinetone mode facilitates color and tonal matching with VENICE, FX9, or FX6 sources, while also supporting S-Log3/2 gamut and 10-bit HLG for straightforward HDR production. Furthermore, the collaboration between the sensor and processor significantly minimizes rolling shutter effects, and the sensor is equipped with a Fast Hybrid AF system that ensures efficient and precise focusing and subject tracking.
4K Full-Frame CMOS Exmor R Sensor
The FX3 achieves authentic cinematic expression through its 12.1MP Exmor R sensor and BIONZ XR processor, delivering 10.2MP effective video and 12.1MP still image capture. This full-frame sensor enables shallow depth of field effects, stunning bokeh, and minimizes rolling shutter artifacts. With a base sensitivity range of 80-102,400, it can extend to an impressive 409,600, making it highly effective for low-light photography. Additionally, it offers over 15 stops of dynamic range, allowing for the detailed reproduction of both breathtaking outdoor scenes and meticulously lit indoor environments, providing ample flexibility for color grading.
S-Cinetone Color
The default S-Cinetone color setting of the FX3 produces an exquisite reproduction of skin tones and a softer aesthetic that enhances footage captured with the VENICE, FX9, or FX6. The inclusion of S-Log-3, S-Gamut3, S-Gamut3.Cine, and 10-bit 4:2:2 support ensures the preservation of rich gradation and color consistency across the Sony Cinema Line cameras. Additionally, HLG HDR offers the convenience of direct HLG playback without requiring any grading.
Video Recording
Achieve high-resolution, detailed imagery at frame rates reaching 4K 120p, with the capability of capturing up to 5x slow motion at 24p output. The recording options allow for DCI 4K+ output in 16-bit raw format via HDMI to compatible recorders, while simultaneously recording XAVC 4K and proxy files internally. Internal 4K recording supports 4:2:2 10-bit color using both All-Intra and Long GOP codecs. The device is equipped with cooling mechanisms, including a silent fan and heatsink, which effectively manage heat to facilitate continuous recording at up to 4K60. Additionally, it features dual SD card slots that accommodate both CFexpress Type A and SDXC cards, enabling seamless relay or backup recording. Super35 1080p capture is available at frame rates of up to 240p.
Steady Focus
Solo shooters can now maintain a sharp focus on the action, thanks to the integration of real-time Tracking and Eye autofocus capabilities powered by AI-driven algorithms, along with an intuitive touchscreen focus feature. The system offers seven options for AF Transition Speed, allowing for precise rack focusing, while five settings for AF Subject Shift provide the flexibility to modify the speed when transitioning from a subject that is in focus. The Fast Hybrid AF system employs 627 points, effectively covering around 89% of the image frame.
Ergonomic Form for Solo Operation
The FX3 features a cage-free design that allows for the direct attachment of "-20 compatible accessories to the camera or its detachable handle. This innovation reduces both the weight and the time required for setup and breakdown typically associated with a camera cage. Additionally, the arrangement of the record button, focus and menu controls, along with six assignable buttons, facilitates single-handed operation, thereby allowing your left hand to remain free for balancing or managing your lens.
Easily Viewable Tally Lights
The indicators located at the top, front, and rear of the camera provide clear signals to the operator, talent, and sound personnel regarding the recording status, ensuring that movements and dialogue are executed with precise timing.
Quality Audio Options
Professional audio recording features consist of:
- A removable XLR adapter handle equipped with two XLR-1/4" TRS combo audio inputs
- A microphone holder along with a 3.5mm input for microphone integration
- Support for up to 4-channel, 24-bit audio recording.
Remote Control, Streaming, and Transfers
Manage your FX3 remotely through the Imaging Edge Mobile or Imaging Edge Desktop applications, and facilitate file transfers via Wi-Fi or a wired USB Type-C connection, enabling your editor to commence post-production work promptly. Additionally, you can stream your content using your computer in conjunction with the Imaging Edge Webcam application.
Post-Production Stabilization with E-Mount Lenses
Sony's Catalyst Prepare/Browse software employs shake metadata to enhance image stability. The software provides a customizable balance between shake compensation and image area cropping, allowing for precise adjustments to the final image.
Improved FX3 Features
The FX3 enhances the Cinema Line by offering features such as ergonomic, cage-free handheld operation, a battery life that is 1.6 times greater than that of the a7S II, and a USB-PD power option to facilitate longer shooting durations.
