Overview
The Sony FX30 Digital Cinema Camera with Sigma 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art Lens Kit combines Sony's compact Cinema Line FX30 APS-C camera with a bright, wide-to-normal Sigma zoom, creating a powerful package for filmmakers, content creators, and hybrid shooters.
Featuring a 26MP APS-C/Super 35 back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor, BIONZ XR processing, 10-bit UHD 4K recording up to 120p, and 14+ stops of dynamic range, the FX30 delivers true cinema performance in a lightweight, cage-free body. Firmware version 6.0.0 adds the BIG6 video home screen, Fixed/Variable frame rate mode, enhanced monitoring tools, Blackmagic RAW output via HDMI, and seamless integration with Creators' Cloud and Sony apps.
The included Sigma 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art lens offers a 25.5–60 mm full-frame equivalent zoom range with a constant f/1.8 aperture, prime-like optical performance, and a video-friendly design. This bright wide-to-normal zoom is ideal for low-light interiors, run-and-gun work, landscapes, portraits, street photography, architecture, and events.
Core Features
- 26MP APS-C/Super 35 Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor and BIONZ XR processor deliver 10-bit UHD 4K recording up to 120 fps with 14+ stops of dynamic range.
- Dual Base ISO (800/2500), high-sensitivity recording up to ISO 32000, and extended range from ISO 50 to 102400 support flexible low-light performance.
- Records internally in XAVC HS, XAVC S, and XAVC S-I 4:2:2 10-bit formats, with 16-bit raw video output via HDMI for compatible external recorders.
- Firmware v6.0.0 adds the BIG6 video home screen, Fixed/Variable frame rate control, improved focus magnification, de-squeeze display options, and Blackmagic RAW recording support.
- S-Cinetone, S-Log3, HLG, Creative Looks, up to 16 user LUTs, and three preset LUTs support both fast-turnaround and fully graded workflows.
- Fast Hybrid AF with 495 phase-detection points, Real-time Eye AF, Real-time Tracking, AF Assist, and Focus Map provide precise focus control at all frame rates.
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization with Active Mode and gyro metadata enables stable handheld shooting and advanced post-stabilization via Sony Catalyst.
- Compact, magnesium-alloy body with multiple 1/4"-20 mounting points, Multi Interface Shoe, tally lights, and an active cooling fan is optimized for cage-free rigs.
- Dual CFexpress Type A/SDXC card slots support high-bitrate, high-frame-rate recording and flexible media configurations.
- Sigma 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art lens provides a 25.5–60 mm equivalent range, constant f/1.8 aperture, internal zoom design, and cine-friendly autofocus performance.
Image Quality & Performance
The FX30 uses a 26MP APS-C/Super 35 Exmor R CMOS sensor paired with the BIONZ XR processor to deliver detailed, cinema-grade imagery. Full-pixel readout from the 6K sensor area produces high-quality UHD 4K footage with reduced moiré and aliasing while preserving the classic Super 35 look.
- Captures up to 14+ stops of dynamic range in S-Log3 for flexible grading and high-contrast scenes.
- Dual Base ISO at ISO 800 and ISO 2500 optimizes noise performance for both standard and low-light shooting.
- Standard ISO range of 100 to 32000, expandable from ISO 50 to 102400, supports varied lighting environments.
- Cinema Line color science with S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones, gentle color reproduction, and smooth highlight roll-off.
Video Capabilities & Recording Formats
As part of Sony's Cinema Line, the FX30 is built for serious video production, offering versatile frame rates, codecs, and external recording support.
- Internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording in XAVC HS, XAVC S, and XAVC S-I formats for robust color and efficient compression.
- UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) up to 60 fps with full-pixel readout and up to 120 fps with a 1.6x crop for slow motion.
- Full HD 1920 x 1080 recording up to 240 fps for dramatic fast-/slow-motion effects.
- HDMI output delivers 10-bit 4:2:2 UHD 4K at up to 59.94p for external recorders and monitoring.
- 16-bit ProRes RAW output via HDMI up to 4672 x 2628 at up to 59.94p with compatible external recorders.
- IP streaming support via MJPEG and MTP with resolutions up to 3840 x 2160 at 12.5p and 14.99p, plus multiple Full HD and HD options.
- De-squeeze display options include 1.5x and 1.6x to support monitoring of anamorphic lenses.
Log Workflows & LUT Management
The FX30 supports multiple log modes and extensive LUT handling to suit different skill levels and post-production pipelines.
- Flexible ISO log mode uses conventional ISO control for simple operation and creative flexibility.
- Cine EI mode records at selected base ISOs for maximum dynamic range, applying exposure adjustments as metadata for monitoring and grading.
- Cine EI Quick mode automatically switches between base ISOs for efficient operation without compromising image quality.
- Up to 16 user LUTs and three preset LUTs can be loaded for monitoring or look preview on the LCD, EVF, and HDMI output.
- Creative Looks can be baked into footage to minimize grading when fast turnaround is required.
- Metadata records embedded LUT and Exposure Index (EI) data for use in Sony Catalyst and compatible NLEs.
Autofocus & Stabilization
Advanced autofocus and stabilization tools make the FX30 highly capable for solo operators and dynamic, handheld production.
- Fast Hybrid AF system uses 495 phase-detection points covering approximately 90% of the image area for reliable video autofocus.
- Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking maintain focus on human and animal eyes during movement.
- AF Assist lets you smoothly override autofocus with the focus ring for intuitive focus transitions.
- Focus Map overlays depth-of-field information on screen to visualize in-focus and out-of-focus regions.
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization compensates for pitch, yaw, roll, and horizontal and vertical shake.
- Active Mode combines optical and digital stabilization for ultra-smooth handheld movement.
- Gyro and lens stabilization metadata are recorded for advanced post-stabilization in Sony Catalyst Browse and Prepare.
- Breathing compensation reduces angle-of-view shifts with compatible lenses in 4K up to 60p in camera or up to 120p via Catalyst.
Operation, Menus & Firmware 6.0.0 Enhancements
The FX30 is optimized for video-first operation, and firmware 6.0.0 adds important workflow refinements and security updates.
- BIG6 home screen displays FPS, EI, shutter, iris, look, and white balance for fast video setup checks.
- Fixed/Variable mode allows direct frame rate setting without entering S&Q mode.
- Focus Magnifier and Auto Magnifier are supported in manual focus when using Bright Monitoring for precise focusing.
- Shooting screen relocates status icons to display edges, keeping the image area clear.
- Automatic detection and connection to a compatible USB-LAN adapter simplifies network configuration.
- Simultaneous and Auto Switch Media modes display the remaining capacity of both media cards during recording.
- Metadata support includes optical density values for preregistered ND filters and Clip Flag filtering for smartphone or FTP transfers.
- Security updates remove IPsec, WPA, and WEP in favor of more secure access authentication and WPA2/WPA3 Wi-Fi modes.
- Creators' app v3.1.0 or later supports direct uploads to Creators' Cloud using OK/NG/KEEP flags, while Monitor & Control app v2.4.0 or later enables Manual Framing and Clip Flag notes.
Connectivity & Workflow
The FX30 integrates easily into professional production environments with comprehensive connectivity and metadata support.
- Full-size HDMI output provides clean 4K 60p signal and 16-bit raw output to compatible recorders.
- 3.5 mm microphone input and 3.5 mm headphone output support on-body sound capture and monitoring.
- Multi Interface Shoe supports advanced accessories, including optional XLR audio handle units.
- USB-C connection supports high-speed data transfer and USB power delivery, with an additional USB-C (USB 3.2 / 3.1 Gen 2) data output shared with power input.
- Sony Multi/Micro-USB terminal allows use of compatible wired remotes and accessories.
- Timecode sync is available via the optional VMC-BNCM1 Timecode Adapter Cable for multi-camera shoots.
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0 enable wireless control, file transfer, and app-based monitoring.
- Dual CFexpress Type A/SDXC slots support backup recording, relay recording, and flexible media choices.
- Extensive metadata, including embedded LUT, EI, gyro, stabilization, breathing compensation, and camera rotation, supports advanced post workflows.
Design & Handling
The FX30 shares its compact, cinema-oriented design with the FX3, optimized for handheld and gimbal use without requiring a cage.
- Magnesium-alloy body offers durability with a body-only weight of approximately 562 g.
- Dimensions of 129.7 x 77.8 x 84.5 mm provide a compact footprint suitable for travel and lightweight rigs.
- Five 1/4"-20 accessory mounting threads and a bottom 1/4"-20 tripod mount simplify custom rig building.
- Dedicated zoom rocker on the body supports smooth control of compatible power zoom lenses.
- Customizable buttons and an updated main menu prioritize key video settings such as picture profile, recording format, white balance, aperture, and ISO.
- Integrated active cooling fan supports extended recording sessions without overheating.
- Articulating 3" touchscreen LCD with 2,360,000 dots supports flexible framing and intuitive touch control.
- Front and rear tally lights provide clear visual confirmation of recording status.
Included Sigma 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art Lens
This kit includes the Sigma 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art lens in Sony E-mount, a bright wide-to-normal zoom with prime-like performance and a video-optimized design.
- 17–40 mm focal length range designed for APS-C Sony E-mount cameras, offering a 25.5–60 mm 35mm-equivalent range.
- Constant f/1.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range supports low-light shooting and shallow depth-of-field control.
- Optical design includes 17 elements in 11 groups, with four aspherical and four Special Low Dispersion elements to suppress various aberrations.
- Superb optical performance is designed to meet or exceed that of other Sigma Art primes and zooms.
- 11-blade rounded diaphragm provides smooth, large bokeh when shooting wide open.
- Maintains an 11" (approximately 28 cm) minimum focusing distance across the entire zoom range.
- Maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.8 and 0.21x magnification support close-up and detail-oriented shooting.
- Internal zoom design keeps overall length constant for easier gimbal balancing and stable handling.
- Design suppresses focus breathing for smoother focus transitions during video recording.
- High-speed, high-response linear actuator autofocus is both quiet and accurate, ideal for video and stills.
- Manual focusing is enhanced with click-and-lock mechanisms for refined focus control.
- Two AFL buttons and a focus mode switch provide direct control from the lens barrel.
- Water- and oil-repellent coating on the front element helps keep the lens clear in challenging conditions.
- Dust- and splash-resistant construction enhances durability in adverse weather.
- Durable brass bayonet mount ensures secure attachment and long-term reliability.
- 67 mm front filter thread supports common filters for exposure and creative effects.
- Physical dimensions of approximately 72.9 x 115.9 mm and weight of about 560 g provide a solid yet manageable balance on the FX30.
