FX3 Camera Software Update Adds Features for Cinematographers Including Log Shooting Modes, LUT Importing, and Timecode Sync

Sony Contact

Tanya Lyon, Sony Cine Marketing | Tanya.Lyon@sony.com ​ 

LOS ANGELES, CA – July 13, 2022 – Through extensive feedback from industry professionals,Sony Electronics Inc. is pleased to announce a new software update (Version 2.00) forthe FX3^[i].

This new software introduces professional cinema line features into the camera, including additional Log shooting modes, user LUT (Lookup Table) importing, timecode sync with dedicated adaptor cable^[ii], and advanced functionality that is consistent with the Cinema Line Camera workflow and enables ultimate creative freedom. ​

FX3’s new Log shooting modes with LUT monitoring create a smoother post-production workflow by enabling Cine El, Cine El Quick, and Flexible ISO modes for recording with the S-Log3 gamma curve. Flexible ISO is a quick and easy mode that allows users to change the ISO to make exposure adjustments. Cine EI and Cine EI Quick are modes that use the camera’s base ISO of 800/12800. Both Cine EI and Cine EI Quick modes produce footage that can be adjusted in post-production to balance highlights and shadows while taking advantage of the wide latitude of S-Log3. ​ All three modes allow video shooting while monitoring with an appropriate LUT to preview the final image.

Additionally, this update includes preset LUTs, like Sony’s s709 and maintains popular picture profiles such as S-Cinetone. For additional creative freedom, users can import their own LUTs. These imported LUTs can be used to not only preview a final image but can also be included into the footage when registered as a picture profile. ​ ​

This latest software also features additional updates for advanced usability, including:

FX3 now includes added functionality to assist with the creative workflow, such as post-production editing using embedded LUT and EI (exposure) metadata. In addition, two types of shot marks have been added, allowing users to mark specific takes or scenes. ​

This metadata is available using the latest version of Sony’s Catalyst Prepare^[iii] or Catalyst Browse applications. A new "Catalyst Prepare Plugin" for Adobe Premiere Pro is scheduled to be released in August.

Availability

The software update will be available July 13, 2022 at 9:00 pm PDT. Filmmakers can easily download the update directly to their camera using a PC or Mac. More details can be found HERE.

Notes:

^[i] The latest version 2022.1 of the Sony’s Catalyst Prepare* or Catalyst Browse applications is required. (*Software download page URL) https://www.sony.net/disoft/

^[ii] Time code sync will need an exclusive adaptor cable, VMC-BNCM1. For further information, please check the support page: Support for ILME-FX3 | Sony USA

^[iii] Software download page URL: https://www.sony.net/disoft/

About 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 the digital cinema camera VENICE, highly acclaimed in the feature and episodic production industry, 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, the most compact camera in the series, Sony offers a true line up of versatile creative tools for all types of visual storytellers. 

About Sony Electronics Inc.

Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation (Japan), one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information.

Original Press Release (Microsoft Word format)

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