The smallest camera in Sony’s array of cinema cameras, the FX3, sits between the a7S III and the larger FX6. Many of the more complex technological features of the camera have already been discussed, but that was before we had an opportunity to have one in our hands.
Let’s take a quick tour of the camera now that we have one and see how it performs. As expected, it performs quite a bit differently from your typical a7-series camera. After all, the camera’s top is equipped with an Autofocus joystick.
Key attributes
The Sony FX3’s full frame 12MP CMOS sensor, which it shares with the A7S III above and the FX3 below, is one of its standout characteristics. All three cameras allow up to 240p FHD and 120p 4K UHD video, so even the resolution and frame rates are the same.
But, the FX3 does offer a number of features that distinguish it from the superficially like A7S III.
The first is a camera-included top-mounted handle that has two XLR microphone connectors. There are two typical 1/4-inch mounting points in this as well as five additional ones on the body itself.
Unlike the A7S III, the FX3 lacks a viewfinder, but it does have an inbuilt silent fan for active cooling. In fact, Sony stated that 4K 60p capture allowed for infinite recording times (though it does not mention 4K 120p)
The FX3 has tally lamps on the front and back that light up when recording to let the operator and the subject know that it is recording.
It supports proxy recording in FHD or HD for filmmakers who lack the tools or resources for 4K editing, as well as the S-Cinetone look common to Sony’s Cinema range and a Type A (biggest) HDMI connector for 16-bit external recording. Although the FX3 may have a mirrorless camera appearance, it functions more like a cinema camera. Although it doesn’t go as far as having built-in ND filters, it checks several other boxes that high-end filmmakers may be interested in.
Design that is ergonomic and practical handling
Despite technical advances, professional shooting cameras are getting smaller and lighter. With the handle, battery, and media removed, the Sony FX3 weighs only 640 grams and measures 3.06 inches by 5.11 inches by 3.33 inches.
The Sony FX3 has an ergonomic design, to put it mildly. It has a wide range of amenities designed to provide you the most comfort possible.
Six unique function buttons for better handling
Its handle is usable and convenient, which makes photography with a low-angle handheld device simple. The numerous tally lights, including a huge one on the rear and a red one on the screen, complement the handle by indicating whether or not you are recording.
The six custom function buttons on the camera are labeled with their default functions.
Features fully articulating screen
The camera’s screen is fully articulating, which is relevant because it allows for multiple filming perspectives. It responds to touch and provides menu control and touch auto-focus (AF).
The screen is sufficiently bright to assist when brightness is required, but it is insufficient for accurate HDR monitoring. Yet because it is completely flexible, it may be positioned at a better viewing angle.
There are numerous mounting locations for various layouts.
Due to the numerous mounting points located throughout the Sony FX3, it is simple to adapt to various setups.
All sides, excluding the port side, have 1/4-20 mounts: three on top, one if you’re using the handle, one on the grip side, and the bottom one obviously.
Performance
We were unable to test the FX3 outside of the Sony booth at The Photography Show, so we are unable to comment on its performance. But, if the A7S III is anything to go by, the FX3 should feature excellent focusing, face and eye tracking, and its 4K video will be of the best quality.
The FX3 incorporates in-body stabilization, just like the A7S III. Although it may not be the best full frame on the market, we anticipate that when combined with the handle, it will perform admirably in run and gun shooting.
Conclusion
Due to its portability, simplicity of use, and dependability, the Sony FX3 is the ideal camera for a one-man-band creator.
The ergonomics make it suitable for beginners, however the cost (about 3,000 GBP) might be an issue.
Professional creators would do well to invest in the Sony FX3. The price is significantly outweighed by the fantastic cinematic elements, which really enhance the content.
