The software update for the compact Sony FX3 is the result of extensive feedback from industry professionals, says Sony, announcing the new log modes, LUT import and timecode sync.

The FX3, the most compact camera in the Cinema Line series, offers a true line up of versatile creative tools for all types of visual storytellers. 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.

The Sony FX3 is the “little sister” of models as the 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. Despite its size, the FX3 is a model included in the Cinema Line family, so users expect it to offer the same versatility as the other models.

The new software now announced, which results from extensive feedback from industry professionals, introduces, says Sony, “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.”

Users can import their own LUTs

Here is some more information about the software update for the FX3:

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.

Sony adds that this latest software also features additional updates for advanced usability, including:

• New list-style main menu screen which provides quick access to frequently used items
• Instant Function (Fn) menu display by swiping up on the screen
• New standby movie screen provides an unobstructed view of the subject
• Timecode sync and input with a dedicated adaptor cable
• AF (autofocus) assist function to smoothly switch between auto and manual focus

Post-production editing

One note to remember: Time code sync will need an exclusive adaptor cable, VMC-BNCM1 (Service Part A5051506A). For further information, check the support page: Support for ILME-FX3 | Sony USA.

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 or Catalyst Browse applications. The latest version 2022.1 of the Sony’s Catalyst Prepare (https://www.sony.net/disoft/) or Catalyst Browse applications is required. A new “Catalyst Prepare Plugin” for Adobe Premiere Pro is scheduled to be released in August.

The software update is now available following the link to the software download page. Filmmakers can easily download the update directly to their camera using a PC or Mac.