Sony has just announced new firmware updates for the FX3 full-frame digital cinema camera and the FX30 Super 35 digital cinema camera. The updates are set to enhance the cameras’ features for cinematic storytelling and connectivity for film creators.
The FX3 has become a popular tool for everyone, from high-end feature films, television series, and independent filmmakers worldwide. Now, after feedback from the community, Sony is pleased to offer new updates to enhance high-end filmmaking.
One of the most highly requested features that Sony has added is the ability to shoot DCI 4K in true 24.00p (4096 x 2160) with the new format XAVC S-I DCI 4K (17:9). This feature is available in both the FX3 Version 3.00 and FX30 Version 2.00 updates.
The new firmware update also includes anamorphic lens de-squeeze options of 1.3x and 2.0x, while FX3 Version 3.00 now features focus breathing compensation. When used with compatible lenses, focus breathing compensation minimizes 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 Sony’s 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.
But that’s not all. The new firmware update also features smartphone connection and integrates with Sony’s new Creators’ Cloud platform for individual content creators. Creators’ Cloud provides services and optimized 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.
So, when can you get your hands on this new firmware update? The FX3 Version 3.00 and FX30 Version 2.00 update will be available on April 11, 2023, at 9 pm PT. Filmmakers can easily download the update directly to their camera using a PC or Mac.
This update is just one example of Sony’s commitment to delivering the best technology for professional filmmakers. 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.
The new firmware updates for the FX3 and FX30 cameras are set to enhance the capabilities of these popular cinema cameras, making them even more versatile tools for visual storytellers. With the ability to shoot DCI 4K in true 24 fps and the addition of anamorphic lens desqueeze and focus breathing compensation, filmmakers can achieve a cinematic look with ease. The integration with Sony’s Creators’ Cloud platform also provides more opportunities for collaboration and content creation. Filmmakers can download the firmware update directly to their camera on April 11, 2023, at 9 pm PT, and take advantage of these new features for their next project.
You can read more details about the firmware update on the Sony website