Sony has unveiled the Sony FX30 4K Super 35, a relatively affordable, lightweight and compact cinema camera. The FX30 is positioned as an entry-level camera for budding creators who are just starting with filmmaking.
Like other cameras in the Cinema Line, the FX30 comes with an array of professional features targeted at film-makers, most prominent of which is the new back-illuminated 20.1 megapixels Exmor R APS-C size CMOS sensor, which Sony says can capture industry-standard Super 35 mm movie footage while delivering high sensitivity, low noise, and 14+1 stops of latitude.
The Sony FX30 can shoot 4K at 120fps, full HD at 240fps2, and 4K Super 35 (16:9) by oversampling from 6K up to 60fps. It supports Log shooting modes like Flexible ISO modes, Cine El, and Cine El Quick with the S-Cinetone gamma curve, which allows creators to capture cinematic footage without having to do extensive color grading or color correction to recapture the mood of a scene in post-production.
The FX30 allows creators to use LUTs to monitor the footage using an image close to the final look they are aiming for. Creators can use the internal s709 LUT or import original LUTs to their cameras. To improve the creator’s workflow, Sony says the FX30 records the LUT information as metadata and allows it to be automatically applied to footage in post-production.
The FX30 is compatible with an assortment of high-performance prime and zoom lenses that allow creators to modify footage to match their vision. The lenses allow creators to improve resolution, capture smooth bokeh, apply dolly-zoom effects, and other functionalities that are obtainable when the Sony FX30 is combined with any lenses.
The FX30 comes with features that support still and video autofocus, such as real-time eye auto-focus, which maintains focus when humans, animals or birds are moving; real-time tracking; auto-focus assist; breathing compensation, which eliminates focus breathing; and “Active Mode” which provides image stabilization while moving or running.
The FX30 has two memory card slots that can be equipped with CFexpress Type A cards, which are used for high-performance and extended recording, and SD cards, affording creators the flexibility to choose how they want to store their footage. The FX30 also features a fan and heatsink system for effective heat management, allowing creators to shoot uninterrupted 4K/60p footage for extended periods.
Sony FX30 pricing and availability
The Sony FX30 can be purchased with or without the XLR handle. It will be available at various Sony authorized dealers in the US starting late October for $2,200 (with the XLR handle) or $1,800 (without the XLR handle).
Sony has also announced availability and pricing for their CFexpress Type A memory cards. The CFexpress CEA-G320T will be available in October too for $650, while the CFexpress CEA-G640T16 will be available in December for $1,250.