The Sony FX3 is a top-tier full-frame cinema camera from Sony’s esteemed Cinema Line, designed to offer a compact yet highly capable solution for filmmakers and content creators. As an ideal blend of the powerful features of both mirrorless cameras and professional cinema equipment, the FX3 boasts impressive specs that make it a solid choice for video production at all levels. Here’s a detailed look at the key specifications and features of the Sony FX3.
Sensor and Image Quality
At the heart of the FX3 is a 12.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (effective 10.2 MP for video), which ensures exceptional low-light performance. Paired with Sony’s E-mount system, it offers compatibility with a wide range of lenses, enhancing versatility in shooting different types of content. The sensor size of 35.6 x 23.8 mm allows for a wide dynamic range of up to 15 stops, delivering rich detail, depth, and vibrant color reproduction. The camera supports both sensor-shift, 5-axis image stabilization, ensuring smoother handheld shooting even in challenging conditions.
ISO Range and Video Recording Capabilities
One of the standout features of the Sony FX3 is its broad ISO range of 80 to 102,400, which can be extended up to a remarkable 409,600 for video. This is particularly beneficial for capturing clean, noise-free footage in low-light environments, a key requirement for filmmakers working in diverse lighting conditions.
When it comes to video, the Sony FX3 shines with multiple internal recording options, including 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at frame rates up to 120 fps, and Full HD (1920 x 1080) at frame rates up to 240 fps. The camera offers several video formats, such as H.265 Long GOP/XAVC HS 4:2:2 10-bit, providing maximum flexibility and professional-grade image quality in post-production. External recording is also supported via HDMI, delivering 16-bit Raw output at resolutions up to 4264 x 2408.
Design and Build
Despite its cinema-grade specifications, the Sony FX3 remains compact and lightweight, weighing only 1.4 lb (640g) for the body alone. It is built with magnesium alloy, making it durable and suitable for rugged filming environments. The camera body includes multiple 1/4″-20 mounting points, allowing filmmakers to attach various accessories without the need for additional cages or rigs. The design also includes a 3″ articulating touchscreen LCD, offering easy access to camera settings and enabling creative shooting angles.
Audio and Connectivity
Audio recording is another area where the Sony FX3 excels, with support for 4-channel 24-bit LPCM audio. The camera includes dual XLR/TRS combo inputs via an optional top handle and a 3.5 mm headphone jack, allowing for professional-grade audio capture and monitoring.
For wireless capabilities, the FX3 is equipped with Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) and Bluetooth, making it easier to transfer footage or control the camera remotely via the Creators’ App, available for both Android and iOS. It also features dual CFexpress Type A/SD card slots, ensuring sufficient media storage and fast data handling for high-resolution video files.
Additional Features
The FX3 supports HDR-HLG, Sony’s S-Log 2 and S-Log 3, and S-Cinetone, ensuring greater flexibility when grading footage in post-production. The camera is also Netflix approved, which speaks to its professional-quality image and sound standards.
One of its additional key features is the fast and slow-motion support, making it easier to capture high-quality, creative video effects. For filmmakers working in extreme conditions, the camera operates well in temperatures between 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C), with a storage range extending from -4°F to 140°F.
Conclusion
The Sony FX3 is a game-changing cinema camera designed for professional filmmakers and content creators seeking a powerful yet compact tool. Its combination of high-end specs such as 4K video, advanced autofocus, and stellar low-light capabilities makes it a compelling option in the world of video production. The FX3 is particularly ideal for those who need a lightweight, portable camera without sacrificing image quality or performance. Whether you’re shooting indie films, commercials, or vlogs, the Sony FX3 provides an exceptional balance of size, functionality, and cinematic quality.
Are there any video assist features like waveform, vectorscope, or false color?
Unfortunately, this camera does not have any of those video assist features at the moment.
Can the camera accept timecode?
This does not have a timecode input or output.
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