Sony FX3 Overview
Cinematic Capture in a Compact, Streamlined Form
With a compact design for solo shooters, travel applications, or as an ideal B camera, the Sony FX3A borrows from both the Cinema Line and Alpha series of cameras to create an optimized portable cinema camera. The FX3A 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.
Sony FX3 | Hands-on Review
S-Cinetone | Cinema Line FX3 | Sony | α
SONY – FX3 Introduction
Expressive UHD 4K Video Capture
The FX3A’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 a greater-than-15-stop dynamic range for working in mixed lighting conditions. Benefiting 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.
4K Full-Frame CMOS Exmor R Sensor
A 12.1MP Exmor R sensor and BIONZ XR processor offer the FX3A true cinematic expression with 10.2MP effective video and 12.1MP still 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.
S-Cinetone Color
Beautiful skin tone reproduction and a softer-toned look that complements your VENICE, FX9, or FX6 footage are created using the FX3A’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.
Video Recording
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.
- Cooling features like a silent fan and a heatsink dissipate warmth to enable uninterrupted recording up to 4K60
- Dual SD card slots accept both CFexpress Type A and SDXC cards for easy relay or backup recording
- Super 35 1080p capture at rates up to 240p
Steady Focus
- Now, even solo shooters can keep the action in focus thanks to real-time Tracking and Eye autofocus functions made possible by AI-based algorithms, plus a simple touchscreen focus function.
- Seven choices of AF Transition Speed let you rack focus, and five AF Subject Shift settings enable you to adjust the speed when shifting from a locked-on subject.
- Fast Hybrid AF uses 627 points to cover approximately 89% of the image frame.
Ergonomic Form for Solo Operation
The FX3A’s cage-free design enables you to mount ¼”-20 compatible accessories directly on the camera or 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.
Tilting Touchscreen LCD
The fold-out 3″ touchscreen LCD has a crisp 2.35MP resolution and can be variously angled for optimal viewing.
Easily Viewable Tally Lights
- Top, front, and rear tally indicators let the operator, talent, and sound person know precisely when the camera is recording.
- This enables more accurately timed movements and dialogue delivery.
Quality Audio Options
Pro audio recording options include:
- A detachable XLR adapter handle with two XLR-1/4″ TRS combo audio inputs
- A mic holder and a 3.5mm input for adding a microphone
- Up to 4-channel, 24-bit audio recording
Remote Control, Streaming, and Transfers
- Control your FX3A remotely using the Imaging Edge Mobile or Imaging Edge Desktop apps, and transfer files using Wi-Fi or via a wired USB-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.
Post-Production Stabilization with E-Mount Lenses
- Sony’s Catalyst Prepare/Browse software uses shake metadata to stabilize your image
- An adjustable balance between shake compensation and image area trimming lets you fine-tune the image
Improved FX3A Features
The FX3A 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.
Common FX3A/FX6/a7S III Features
Like the FX6 and the a7S III, the FX3A features:
- Full-frame, back-illuminated 12.1MP Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ XR processor
- High-speed rates of 120p in 4K and 240p in HD
- A dynamic range of 15+ stops
Shared FX3A/FX6 Attributes
Attributes that the FX3A has in common with the larger FX6 camera include:
- S-Cinetone, S-Log3, HLG, and Rec. 709 gamma options
- Tally lamps on the front, side, and rear
- An internal fan to prevent overheating
- A zoom lever for easy frame adjustments
Shared FX3A/a7S III Attributes
Attributes that the FX3A shares with the a7S III include:
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- 16-bit raw output via HDMI
- S-Log2 gamma choice
- 80 to 409,600 ISO range (expanded)
Wireless Connectivity
- Dual-band 2.4/5 GHz wireless connectivity
- Wired LAN link using the USB-C port and a separate adapter
