The new firmware enables the cameras to shoot DCI 4K in true 24 fps, adds anamorphic lens desqueeze and breathing compensation to bring unified operability and common workflow to the Cinema Line

Today, Sony announced new firmware updates for the FX3 full-frame digital cinema camera and the FX30 Super 35 digital cinema camera, enhancing its features for cinematic storytelling and connectivity for film creators. Since its launch, the FX3 has become a popular tool for everyone from high-end feature films, television series and independent filmmakers around the world. Now, after feedback from the community, Sony is pleased to offer new updates to enhance high-end filmmaking. FX3 Version 3.00 and FX30 Version 2.00 include highly requested features such as the ability to shoot DCI 4K in true 24.00p (4096 x 2160)ii with new format XAVC S-I DCI 4K (17:9).

“The FX3 is a great companion to the VENICE in the filmmaking adventure. Its colour rendering and accuracy equals its bigger sibling, the VENICE. I have used the FX3 on my last several shows and always find myself excited and pleasantly surprised. I’m looking forward to seeing what else it can do,” says Emmy award-winning cinematographer Checco Varese ASC.

In addition to true 24p, FX3 Version 3.00 and FX30 Version 2.00 now offer anamorphic lens desqueeze options of 1.3x and 2.0x while FX3 Version 3.00 now features focus breathing compensation. When used with compatible lenses iii, focus breathing compensation minimises the shifts in the angle-of-view as the focus point shifts, with additional compensation available in post-production using Catalyst Prepare/Browse and the Catalyst Prepare Plugin. Other functionality has also been added to improve the camera’s ease of use, including the ability to switch from Standard Movie and S&Q Motion modes via the press of a button. File naming is now similar to our high-end CineAlta cameras such as the FX9, VENICE and VENICE 2, to ensure easy workflow, especially in projects where the FX3/FX30 is used as a B- or C-cam iv.

The new firmware update also features smartphone connection and integrates with Sony’s new Creators’ Cloudv platform for individual content creators. Creators’ Cloud provides services and optimised applications from shooting to collaborating with creators around the world. This Creators’ Cloud platform also includes Creators’ App, a content transfer mobile application from camera to cloud.

Pricing and Availability 

The new FX3 Version 3.00 and FX30 Version 2.00 update will be available on April 11, 2023, at 9pm PT. Filmmakers can easily download the update directly to their camera using a PC or Mac. More details can be found HERE.

A variety of exclusive stories, videos and exciting new content shot with the newest cameras and other Sony products can be found here. Sony’s European photography hub is available in 22 languages and details product news, competitions and an up-to-date list of Sony events in each country.

Cinema Line 

Cinema Line is a series of cameras that have a cinematic look – cultivated from Sony’s long experience in digital cinema production – plus enhanced operability and reliability that respond to the wide variety of creators’ high demands.

Cinema Line includes Sony’s flagship digital cinema camera VENICE, which has been used on over 500 feature films, television and commercials, including three of the top grossing feature films in the world in 2022. The Cinema Line includes the professional camera FX9, which is popular for documentary and drama production and the FX6, for grab and shoot action and content creation. With the addition of the FX3 and FX30, the most compact cameras in the series, Sony offers a true line up of versatile creative tools for all types of visual storytellers.

Notes:

i When de-squeeze is active, autofocus and image stabilisation are disabled. This function cannot be assigned to a custom button or Fn menu.

ii At 24.00p, proxy recording is disabled. When 24.00p is selected or deselected, the camera will automatically restart.

iii Compatible lenses are listed at: https://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/support/ilc/breathing/en/ Angle of view and imager quality may change slightly when this function is turned ON. Full compensation may not be possible with some lenses. This function is not available when shooting movies at 120p, when using the S&Q mode at 120p or when shooting stills.

iv The file name of the recorded movie becomes “Camera ID+Reel number+Cameraposition+File number+Date+Random” string.

v Availability will vary by timing, countries and regions. The service will be updated regularly.

vi Download app at Google Play and the App Store. Network services, content, and operating system and software subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted, or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration, and credit card information.

vii Transfer may be interrupted when a different app is launched on some operating systems.