It seems that Sony has developed (and registered) a new cinema camera, defined as FX3. Although this camera has not officially announced yet, the rumors on the streets are valid. According to the picture, it’s going to be a kind of hybridization between the alpha models, and the Cinema Line cameras.
Sony FX3: “Cinema” and/or “Alpha”
Nokishita has published a picture of a new and “out of the box” camera, that is marked as FX3 and Alpha. According to the FCC-ID, the name of the model is ILME-FX3. Although rumors refer to 8K resolution, there’re no specs to be confirmed. For now, we have a picture, that says a lot. if you look carefully you can notice, besides the Alpha symbol, a “Cinema Line” mark, which means that the camera is aimed to be part of the prestige Cinema Line that includes the FX6, FX9, and the mighty VENICE. Just a reminder, the Cinema Line was announced back in September with the goal to provide professional solutions for large-format cinematography.
Sony FX3: A new member in the Cinema Line?
All the cameras in the Cinema Line are characterized by five parameters:
- Full-frame image sensors – high sensitivity and resolution, wide dynamic range
- Color science – delivering a rich filmic, cinematic look, with the flexibility to customize creative expression
- Auto Focus
- Small and lightweight bodies
- Professional and intuitive interfaces with improved ergonomics
However, when we examine the structure of the FX3, the compact Alpha form factor is clearly noticeable, which means that the “Intuitive interfaces with improved ergonomics” is challengeable to be achieved here. Moreover, as a “Cinema Line” camera, the FX3 will have to be armed with a large sensor that delivers high resolution. But again, on the other hand, there’s an “Alpha” symbol that categorized the FX3 as Alpha model. Could it be an Alpha model that is acceptable to the Cinema Line? It could.
Discussion
According to the picture, we can speculate that the Sony FX3 is an Alpha model that is equipped with a large sensor and is capable of shooting high resolution (8K?). Furthermore, the Sony FX3 will be a new entry-level model of the elite Cinema Line. Moreover, the compact form factor of the FX3 can be well utilized on Sony’s new drone, Airpeak, and/or on any other applications that demand compact form factor (crash-cam and so on).
What are your thoughts about the Sony FX3? Will it be an Alpha or a Cinema Line member? Let’s know your insights in the comments section below.
Aside from it’s entry level FX designation, might the ‘Alpha’ logo indicate a hybrid stills capture capability? The compact mirrorless ILC form factor would seem to suggest so similar to the Canon R5, Sigma FP, and even Sony’s own A1, A7S III, etc.