Sony has released a firmware update of version 2.00 for the FX3. This new update adds logging, LUT import, and time code synchronization modes with a dedicated adapter cable.
Record shooting modes
The FX3 has gained new log shooting modes. So what exactly does this mean? Well, you can now choose to shoot in Cine EI, Cine EI Quick and Flexible ISO modes to record with the S-Log3 gamma curve. All three modes allow you to record video while being monitored with a suitable LUT to preview the final image.
S-Log2 is no longer included. After the upgrade, you will need to use the S-Log3 gamma configuration.
Cine EI i Cine EI Quick
Cine EI and Cine EI Quick are modes that use the base ISO of the 800/12800 camera. According to Sony, both Cine EI and Cine EI Quick modes produce images that can be adjusted in post-production to balance light and shadow while taking advantage of S-Log3’s wide latitude.
The main difference between Cine EI Fast and Cine EI is that when you select Cine EI Fast, it will automatically set the two available base ISOs (800 and 12,800) based on the selected EI. In normal Cine EI mode, the base ISO values must be set manually.
Flexible ISO
Flexible ISO is thought to be a quick and easy mode that allows users to change the ISO to make exposure adjustments. Sony doesn’t explain more about this mode, but it basically only allows you to shoot the record with any ISO value you want.
LUTs
The version 2.00 update also includes preset LUTs, such as the Sony s709, while maintaining popular image profiles such as S-Cinetone. Users can now also import their own LUT. Any LUT you import can also be “baked” into your footage if you register it as an image profile.
You can load up to 16 user LUTs on the FX3.
Time code synchronization
The FX3 now has the ability to enter time code using a dedicated adapter cable. The cable must be purchased separately and is called VMC-BNCM1. This cable is a USB to BNC adapter, it is only compatible with the FX3 (and will not work with Sony alpha cameras like the a7S III or a1.
Other news
This latest update also includes the following additional features:
- New list style main menu screen that provides quick access to frequently used items
- Displays the instant function menu (Fn) by swiping your finger up the screen
- The new standby movie screen offers unobstructed view of the subject
- AF (autofocus) help function to switch smoothly between autofocus and manual
- FX3 now includes added functionality to help 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, which allow users to mark specific shots or scenes. This metadata is available using the latest version of Sony’s Catalyst Prepare or Catalyst Browse apps. A new “Catalyst Preparation Add-on” for Adobe Premiere Pro is scheduled for release in August.
Note: Because this update adds features and makes important changes to specifications, camera settings will be initialized as part of the update process. It is recommended that you write down all camera settings before continuing. Even if you have saved the settings using the various save functions available (such as Save / Upload Settings and Save / Upload FTP Settings), the camera cannot read the settings prior to version 1.01 after upgrading to version 2.00.
By Matthew Allard ACS
Matthew Allard is an ACS-accredited freelance director of photography and winner of several awards with 30 years of experience working in more than 50 countries around the world.
He is the editor of Newsshooter.com and has been writing on the site since 2010.
Matthew has won 43 ACS awards, including four prestigious gold tripods. In 2016 she won the Best Photography Award at the 21st Asian Television Awards.
Matthew is available to hire as a DP in Japan or to work anywhere else in the world.