Overview

With a compact design for solo shooters, for travel applications, and to serve as an ideal B cam, the Sony FX3A Full-Frame Cinema Camera borrows from both the Cinema Line and Alpha series of cameras to create an optimized portable cinema camera. The FX3 features all the imaging attributes you'd expect from this class but sports a new lightweight, handheld form with a streamlined profile and a "cage-free" design offering the ability to secure various accessories directly to the camera body.

FX3A Key Upgrades

• The LCD monitor has changed with a dot count increase from 1,440,000 dots on the FX3 to 2,359,296 dots on the FX3A.
• Power consumption has only very slightly increased - the number of shots that can be taken when using the LCD monitor has changed from 580 on the FX3 to 570 on the FX3A.
• The NFC and infrared remote control receiver have been removed (and subsequently the NFC logo will be removed from the body).
• The included charger has changed from the BCQZ1 to the BCZD1.

Video Capabilities

Expressive UHD 4K Video Capture

The FX3's 12.1MP Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor (10.2MP effective in video mode) is paired with a BIONZ XR processor to achieve UHD 4K video capture with internal 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling or 16-bit raw output. The sensor's BSI design heightens clarity and sensitivity, with an expandable ISO 80–409,600 range and greater-than 15-stop dynamic range. The S-Cinetone mode can be used for matching to VENICE, FX9, or FX6 sources, and there is also S-Log3/2 gamut support and 10-bit HLG for HDR productions. The sensor and processor also work together to greatly reduce rolling shutter, and the sensor's design incorporates a Fast Hybrid AF system for intelligent focusing performance.

4K Full-Frame CMOS Exmor R Sensor

A 12.1MP Exmor R sensor and BIONZ XR processor offer the FX3 true cinematic expression with 10.2MP effective video and 12.1MP stills capture. The full-frame sensor provides shallow depth of field looks, impressive bokeh, and reduced rolling shutter artifacts. A base sensitivity of ISO 80–102,400 expands to 409,600 for low-light capture, and 15+ stops of dynamic range allow for nuanced color grading.

S-Cinetone Color

Beautiful skin tone reproduction and a softer-toned look that complements VENICE, FX9, or FX6 footage are created using the FX3's default S-Cinetone color setting. S-Log-3, S-Gamut3, S-Gamut3.Cine, and 10-bit 4:2:2 support help maintain rich gradation and color matching with Sony Cinema Line cameras, while HLG HDR provides direct HLG playback without grading.

Video Recording

Capture sharp, detailed images up to 4K 120p with up to 5x slow motion at 24p output. Record DCI 4K+ in 16-bit raw over HDMI to compatible recorders while simultaneously recording XAVC 4K and proxies in-camera. Internal 4K recording includes 4:2:2 10-bit color with All-Intra and Long GOP codecs.

• Cooling features like a silent fan and a heatsink dissipate warmth to enable uninterrupted recording up to 4K60.
• Dual SD card slots accept both CFexpress Type A and SDXC cards for easy relay or backup recording.
• Super 35 1080p capture at rates up to 240p.

Autofocus and Stabilization

Steady Focus

• Real-time Tracking and Eye autofocus powered by AI plus touchscreen focus function.
• Seven AF Transition Speed levels and five AF Subject Shift settings for refined focusing.
• Fast Hybrid AF with 627 points covers approximately 89% of the frame.

Post-Production Stabilization with E-Mount Lenses

• Sony's Catalyst Prepare/Browse software uses shake metadata for image stabilization.
• Adjust balance between shake compensation and image cropping for fine-tuned results.

Design & Usability

Ergonomic Form for Solo Operation

The FX3's cage-free design allows mounting of 1/4"-20 accessories directly to the camera or handle. Clustered record button, focus/menu controls, and six assignable buttons support single-handed operation.

Tilting Touchscreen LCD

The fold-out 3" touchscreen LCD offers 2.35MP resolution and adjustable viewing angles.

Easily Viewable Tally Lights

• Top, front, and rear tally lights inform operator, talent, and crew when the camera is recording.
• Improves accuracy of timing and dialogue delivery.

Audio Capabilities

Quality Audio Options

Pro audio recording options include:

• Detachable XLR adapter handle with two XLR-1/4" TRS combo inputs.
• Mic holder and 3.5mm input for microphones.
• Up to 4-channel, 24-bit audio recording.

Connectivity

Remote Control, Streaming, and Transfers

• Control via Imaging Edge Mobile or Desktop; transfer files via Wi-Fi or USB-C.
• Stream using a computer and Imaging Edge Webcam app.

Wireless Connectivity

• Dual-band 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi support.
• Wired LAN via USB-C and adapter.

Enhanced Features

Improved FX3 Features

Enhancements include a more comfortable handheld design, battery runtime 1.6x longer than a7S II, and USB-PD power for extended shoots.

Common FX3/FX6/a7S III Features

FX3 shares the following with FX6 and a7S III:

• 12.1MP full-frame Exmor R sensor and BIONZ XR processor.
• 4K at 120p and 1080p at 240p.
• 15+ stops of dynamic range.

Shared FX3/FX6 Attributes

• S-Cinetone, S-Log3, HLG, and Rec. 709 gamma.
• Tally lamps on multiple sides.
• Built-in cooling fan to prevent overheating.
• Zoom lever for framing adjustments.

Shared FX3/a7S III Attributes

• 5-axis in-body image stabilization.
• 16-bit raw HDMI output.
• S-Log2 gamma support.
• ISO 80–409,600 range (expanded).