With a compact design for solo shooters, for travel applications, and to serve as an ideal B cam, the Sony FX3 borrows from both the Cinema Line and Alpha series of cameras to create an optimized portable cinema camera. The FX3 features all the imaging attributes you’d expect from this class but sports a new lightweight, handheld form with a streamlined profile and a “cage-free” design offering the ability to secure various accessories directly to the camera body.
With firmware update 2.0, Sony aligns the FX3 more closely with its Cinema Line workflow. Updates include advanced log shooting choices, including Cine EI options, the ability to import user LUTs, timecode syncing via an optional cable, and an easier-to-operate camera interface.
When updating from v.1.01 or earlier:
The FX3’s 12.1MP Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor (10.2MP effective in video mode) is paired with a BIONZ XR processor to achieve UHD 4K video capture with internal 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling or 16-bit raw output. The sensor’s BSI design heightens clarity and sensitivity, with an expandable ISO 80-409,600 range and greater-than 15-stop dynamic range for working in mixed lighting conditions. Benefitting color and tonal control, the S-Cinetone mode can be used for matching to VENICE, FX9, or FX6 sources, and there is also S-Log3/2 gamut support and 10-bit HLG for simple HDR productions. The sensor and processor also work together to greatly reduce rolling shutter, and the sensor’s design incorporates a Fast Hybrid AF system for intelligent and quick focusing performance and subject tracking.
A 12.1MP Exmor R sensor and BIONZ XR processor offer the FX3 true cinematic expression with 10.2MP effective video and 12.1MP stills capture. The full-frame sensor provides shallow depth of field looks, impressive bokeh, and reduced rolling shutter artifacts. A base sensitivity of 80-102,400 expands to a lofty 409,600 for impressive low-light capture, and 15+ stops of dynamic range reproduce the nuances of both spectacular exteriors and carefully lit interior scenes with plenty of allowance for color grading.
Beautiful skin tone reproduction and a softer-toned look that complements your VENICE, FX9, or FX6 footage are created using the FX3’s default S-Cinetone color setting. S-Log-3, S-Gamut3, S-Gamut3.Cine, and 10-bit 4:2:2 support help maintain rich gradation and color matching with the range of Sony Cinema Line cameras, while HLG HDR provides the option of direct HLG playback without the need for grading.
Capture sharp, detailed images at rates up to 4K 120p with up to 5x slow motion at 24p output. Recording options include the ability to output DCI 4K+ in 16-bit raw over HDMI to compatible recorders while simultaneously recording XAVC 4K and proxies in-camera. Internal 4K recording options include 4:2:2 10-bit color with All-Intra and Long GOP codecs.
The FX3’s cage-free design enables you to mount ¼”-20 compatible accessories directly on the camera or on the detachable handle, saving you the weight and setup/breakdown time of a camera cage. The clustered record button, focus and menu controls, and six assignable buttons all help to enable single-handed control, leaving your left hand free for balancing or controlling your lens.
Top, front, and rear tally indicators let the operator, talent, and sound person know precisely when the camera is recording, enabling accurately timed movements and dialogue delivery.
Pro audio recording options include:
Control your FX3 remotely using the Imaging Edge Mobile or Imaging Edge Desktop apps, and transfer files using Wi-Fi or via a wired USB Type-C connector to let your editor get a jump on post-production. You can also stream your content using your computer and the Imaging Edge Webcam app.
The FX3 updates the Cinema Line with improvements like comfortable, cage-free handheld operation, a battery runtime 1.6x longer than that of the a7S II, and a USB-PD power option for extended shooting times.
Like the FX6 and the a7S III, the FX3 features:
Attributes that the FX3 has in common with the larger FX6 camera include:
Attributes that the FX3 shares with the a7S III include: