20.1 MP Exmor R APS-C (Super 35mm format) image sensor with wide dynamic range
Sony's acclaimed image sensor technology in a new back-illuminated 20.1 megapixels APS-C Exmor R CMOS sensor (Super 35 format) achieves high sensitivity, low noise, and wide dynamic latitude. 6K oversampling compresses a vast amount of information into 4K (QFHD: 3840 x 2160) output, delivering 4K movies with overwhelming resolution. Capture the scene in cinematic 4K resolution with the expressive depth of field, stunning bokeh, and cinematic freedom of an APS-C size sensor. The image sensor maximizes light collection efficiency so that clear, usable images can be captured in dim light. Standard ISO sensitivity is 100 to 32000, and latitude is an impressively wide 14+ stops.
S-Cinetone for a cinematic look straight out of the camera without grading
The FX30 includes S-Cinetone, the same color science that produces the highly regarded FX9 and FX6 color and skin tones. Based on technology acquired through development of digital cinema cameras such as Sony's VENICE 2, S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones that are essential to healthy-looking skin color, plus soft colors and gorgeous highlights. Because S-Cinetone produces all this directly within the camera, it's easy to achieve a beautiful cinematic look without the necessity of post-production grading.
Flexible ISO, Cine EI Quick and Cine EI Log shooting modes for optimized image quality
Three modes are provided for recording with the S-Log3 gamma curve ("Log Shooting Setting" in the menu) when post processing will be used to grade and finish the footage. Cine EI, inherited from Sony's high-end Cinema Line models, offers wide latitude and the highest possible image quality. Cine EI Quick automatically switches the camera's base ISO according to the selected Exposure Index (EI). And Flexible ISO provides the greatest flexibility for exposure settings.
User LUTs can be applied to the LCD display and HDMI output and embedded in clips
When recording with the S-Log3 gamma curve, the low-contrast image displayed on the monitor can make it difficult to judge how the final image will look. The FX30 allows custom LUTs to be applied to the LCD monitor and HDMI output, providing a more accurate preview of the final image. LUTs can also be embedded in clips to facilitate post-production processing. The FX30 even includes a new s709 preset LUT that can provide a more cinematic look while monitoring. In addition to the preset LUTs, up to 16 user LUTs (.cube format) can be imported into the camera via memory card.
Dual Base ISO and a 14+ stop range for wide latitude and low-noise images
The Dual Base ISO provides two sensitivity settings - one at ISO 800 and one at ISO 2500. This allows you to select an appropriate noise floor, for clean images, as well as maximize the FX30's dynamic range when shooting in both bright or low-light conditions. Furthermore, a wide 14+ stop latitude minimizes the risk of blown highlights or blocked shadows over a wide range of lighting conditions, making it easier to shoot top-quality images in just about any shooting situation.
Log recording for smooth cinematic image quality when color grading
For full-scale productions, the S-Log3 gamma curve provided in the FX30 has been designed for smooth gradations, and to make it easier to achieve cinematic image quality when color grading in post-production. Both S-Log3 and S-Gamut. Cine offer high-quality color reproduction over a wide latitude, and special care has been taken to adjust the camera's output to ensure that the highest image quality can be easily achieved during post processing.
Dependable, accurate autofocus with Real-time Eye and Real-time Tracking AF
Sophisticated tracking features keep your subject in steady focus so you can concentrate on composition. Wide-area AF with intelligent tracking uses focal-plane phase-detection for tenacious subject tracking across almost the entire frame. Real-time Eye AF ensures precise focus on the face and eyes (human, animal, or bird), while Real-time Tracking provides reliable tracking thanks to Sony's unique AI-based subject recognition algorithms. Improved tracking is achieved even when shooting at high 120p frame rates.
Image stabilization Active Mode supports handheld movie shooting
Active Mode utilizes an in-body 5-axis sensor shift image stabilizer and provides increased stabilization for movie shooting. A precision gyroscope sensor accurately measures camera shake and compensates optically, making stable video possible even when shooting hand-held without a gimbal, even while walking, and at 4K high resolution.
Extensive recording formats for high image quality and advanced post-production
The FX30 can record 10-bit 4:2:2 video internally when using Long GOP or All Intra compression, making it possible to grade for fuller, more natural gradations while generally providing greater editing freedom. In addition to XAVC S AVC/H.264 encoding, XAVC HS format recording, using the HEVC/H.265 codec, roughly doubles the compression efficiency. XAVC S-I 4K and XAVC S-I HD formats provide per-frame Intra compression so the user can choose the most suitable format for the job at hand.
Creative slow-motion options with up to 4K (QFHD) 120p with autofocus
The FX30 offers 4K recording at up to 120 frames per second. Extraordinarily smooth 5x (max.) slow-motion imagery at QFHD resolution with autofocus provides new expressive capability. The ability to capture moving subjects in smooth slow motion opens up a whole new world of creative potential.
4K 16-bit RAW output from HDMI terminal for compatible external recorders
For demanding post-production workflows, 16-bit RAW output is available over HDMI connection to compatible external recorders while XAVC HS 4K, XAVC S 4K, or XAVC S-I 4K, and proxy, files are simultaneously captured in-camera. RAW video output is 4672 x 2628 [16:9] resolution, exceeding DCI-4K resolution.
A selection of Creative Looks to create interesting moods right in the camera
A selection of Creative Looks makes it easy to create interesting moods right in the camera. The Creative Look presets can be used as is, or further customized using individual parameter settings such as hue, color depth, brightness, contrast, and sharpness. Fine adjustment of preset looks can be made according to the user's preference, and favorite settings can be registered as custom looks.
Sophisticated focus functions to handle any situation
The FX30 makes fast, accurate focusing as easy as possible. AF Assist smoothly switches between auto and manual focus, it enables easy rack focusing, and it can save time even when you are primarily using manual focus. Focus Map makes it easy to visualize depth of field while shooting and Breathing Compensation provides a stable angle of view when rack focusing by minimizing the field-of-view shift that can occur with some lenses. Additional breathing compensation is also available in post-production software supported by camera metadata.
Uninterrupted 4K 60p recording with cooling fan ventilation
For uninterrupted 4K 60p recording, the FX30 features an innovative heat dissipation structure, including a unique Sony (sigma) shaped graphite-alloy heatsink. A complete internal redesign optimized the camera's airflow and heatsink placement. When required, a silent cooling fan provides ventilation for continuous recording at full resolution, with intake and exhaust air structurally isolated to maintain strong dust and moisture resistance.
Metadata to facilitate editing with Catalyst Browse and Prepare software
Sony's Catalyst Browse and Prepare software are ideal production partners for the FX30. The camera records five types of metadata: LUTs, image stabilization, focus breathing, camera rotation and shot marks. These can be useful when previewing and preparing to edit in Sony's free Catalyst Browse or purchased Catalyst Prepare software
Proxy recording for efficient editing workflow
Low-bitrate HD proxy files can be recorded simultaneously in nearly all recording formats. The smaller proxy video files can be used for editing previews prior to final 4K online editing, reducing computer load and enabling a faster workflow
Time code input synchronization capability
The FX30 can be synchronized (TC-IN) to a second camera that has a time code output terminal by connecting the FX30's Multi/Micro USB terminal to the time code source via an optional VMC-BNCM1 adapter and standard BNC cable.
Still image shooting function
Because the FX30 can shoot stills as well as movies, it can be handy to use when you are location hunting. For example, you can use it to shoot stills that will be used in storyboards or pre-production presentations.
New list-style main menu for quick access to frequently used items
The camera's new list-style main menu gives you access to frame rate, shutter speed, and other essential shooting parameters. Main menu display can be assigned to a custom button so that parameters can be quickly checked and edited as needed prior to shooting.
