Sony Alpha FX3 (ILME-FX3) – Full-Frame Cinema Line Camera | 4K 120p, S-Cinetone, 15+ Stops Dynamic Range, XLR Audio, Compact Cinema Body

Optimized for cinematic expression

The FX3 features a 10.2MP* Full-frame Backside-illuminated (BSI) Exmor R CMOS sensor that delivers sensitivity, speed and superior movie quality. The sensor features a color filter array that boosts color reproduction accuracy while delivering up to 15+ stops of dynamic range3 and drastically reduced noise for ultra-sharp and clean images with a fast readout speed that reduces rolling shutter. In addition, the Exmor R sensor features Sony’s acclaimed fast hybrid autofocus with 627 phase detection AF points and 89% coverage**. The high sensitivity also allows it to autofocus in light as low as EV-6.

*10.2 effective megapixels for movies and 12.1 effective megapixels for stills.

**Maximum AF points and area coverage. This varies according to the recording modes. 627 phase detection AF points with 89% coverage for movie. 759 phase detection AF points with 92% coverage for stills.

High-performance fast processing

The FX3 features the same BIONZ XR system architecture as the FX6, with high processing performance from image capture through all signal processing stages. User interface, network, and file management processing is distributed so that fast, stress-free control response is maintained regardless of real-time processing load. The engine also makes it possible to deliver high sensitivity and natural gradations, realistic color reproduction, low noise, and other image quality improvements as well as faster, more precise AF plus the ability to process the large amounts of data required for 4K 120p1 10-bit 4:2:2 recording. It also features improved menu response and high-speed write to CFexpress Type A memory cards.

S-Cinetone for that expressive cinematic look

In response to a growing need for more expressive depth, the FX3, along with FX9 and FX6 Cinema Line cameras, allows users to easily create a cinematic look without post-production using S-Cinetone picture profile. Inspired by the color science used in Sony’s flagship VENICE camera, S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones, plus soft colors and gorgeous highlights that are essential to cinematic expression. S-Cinetone is the default for Picture Profile 11 (PP11) on the FX3.

Cage free design

An easily manageable compact body that doesn’t get in the way translates directly into increased workflow efficiency and shooting freedom for creators involved in video production. The FX3 is designed to eliminate the need for a camera cage, including six standard ¼”-20 UNC threaded mounting points to easily and securely attach compatible accessories such as external monitors, recorders, wireless microphones, or other add-ons. In addition, the supplied top handle with XLR interface securely attaches to the body via the Multi Interface Shoe without any special tools and provides three additional thread holes. Since no cage is required, the system size and weight is reduced making transporting easier and setup time quicker. The FX3 has everything a single operator needs for video production in a versatile, easy-to-use compact and lightweight package that can be expanded to meet growing needs.

Smallest Cinema Line camera for solo shooting

As the most compact model in the Cinema Line, the FX3 is not only the smallest and lightest, but it also features a design that eliminates the need for a cage while providing an XLR handle unit that maximizes handheld shooting flexibility and ideal for gimbal and drone-mounted work. It weighs just 1.576 lbs. (715 g), including battery and memory cards, and the body is only 5.11” x 3.33” x 3.06” (129.7 x 84.5 x 77.8mm) HxWxD. The camera grip has been carefully designed with professional creators to provide optimum flexibility, stability, and comfort for extended handheld shooting sessions.

Smallest Cinema Line camera for solo shooting Digital XLR on top handle, MI shoe and 3.5mm jack audio options

The FX3 offer a variety of audio input options to suit different workflows and professional requirements. The body incorporate a standard 3.5 mm mic. jack, Sony’s digital MI (Multi Interface) shoe for cable free connection with compatible MI shoe microphones and the XLR top handle which includes a 3.5mm mic jack and two balanced XLR/TRS audio inputs, enabling high quality audio to the FX3. With an optional XLR or TRS microphone connected, the XLR module on the handle takes care of the A/D (Analogue to Digital) conversion and DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and transfers the digital audio data directly to the camera for outstanding audio quality. Camera settings provide audio recording formats, including 4-channel 24-bit recording. Since the XLR adaptor is integrated into the handle and does not require any additional cables or batteries, it offers stress-free set up.

Astonishing low-light performance and 15+ stops dynamic range

The 10.2MP* sensor is optimized for 4K with full-pixel readout. The full-frame sensor offers more light gathering area than smaller super-35 sensors, while fewer pixels mean each individual pixel is larger than on higher pixel-count full-frame sensors resulting in astonishing low-light capabilities with a high signal-to-noise ratio. It has a Standard ISO range from 80 -102,400, expandable to 40-409,600 for stills and 80-409,600 for movies. The FX3 also employs Sony’s industry-leading Exmor R backside-illuminated CMOS image sensor technology for additional low light gathering performance and to double the readout speed. Thanks to the highly sensitive Exmor R sensor and fast processing, the dynamic range for movies is an impressively wide 15+ stops**.

*10.2 effective megapixels for movies and 12.1 effective megapixels for stills.

**Movie shooting with S-Log 3. Sony test conditions. May require color grading.

High speed for slow motion

The FX3 offers several in-camera 4K recording modes to match your creative need and desired format. 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second* delivers extraordinarily smooth 5x (max.) slow-motion imagery**. In addition to supporting 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, this feature can be used with efficient inter-frame (Long GOP) compression or high-quality intra-frame (All-I) compression. A maximum bit rate of 1200 Mbps (4:2:2 10-bit, H.264, All-I)* delivers supreme image quality when directly replaying movies in slow or quick motion in the S&Q mode** . Up to 10x slow motion with Full HD resolution is possible at 240 fps (24p recording), providing fresh perspectives on dynamic sports and other types of action.

*Human & animal. Animal Eye-AF not available in movie mode.

**Audio recording not available in the S&Q mode.