Sony publicizes the FX2, a Full-frame Cinema Camera with the perks (and limitations) of the a7 IV sensor by Michelle DeLateur

Sony announces the FX2, a Full-frame Cinema Camera with the perks (and limitations) of the a7 IV sensor 6

Sony has introduced its latest providing within the cinema line: the FX2. As the nomenclature dictates, the FX2 sits under the FX3 when it comes to video choices. It technically sits above the FX30 given the worth, the options, the full-frame sensor (that mirrors the a7 IV), and the stills functionality, however with cropped 4K 60fps video and no 4K 120fps providing, FX30 videographers will probably assume twice earlier than leaping into this mannequin. With its further stills capability (together with log taking pictures mode for stills so your photographs can match your colour grade), Sony hopes to entice hybrid creators new to the Sony line with this $2700 providing.

A full record of options is under, and naturally, there are just a few questions, curiosities, and issues from the get-go.

Let’s begin with the great things:

Sensor and specs: 33MP full-frame sensor and 7K oversampling for full-frame 4K video. Dual base ISO of 800 and 4000.
Electronic View Finder: Ever attempt to movie with the FX30 or the FX3 on a seaside? Like, say, Cannes? Enough mentioned!
Shutter angle choice: Huzzah! An “entry-level” cinema digicam with shutter angle!
Updated Design: The FX2 physique features a built-in fan and two tripod screws. It’s the little issues that matter, comparable to having the ability to lock down the digicam with a number of screws. Thank you!
NP-FZ100 Battery: This digicam runs on the identical trusty batteries as its predecessors. So for those who already personal an entire bunch of ’em, you’re in luck!
Mechanical Shutter Option: Ready to make use of quick flash sync along with your cinema digicam?
Active and Dynamic Modes: Handheld videographers, unite! These are model new choices within the cinema line with this mannequin. The options help and stabilize “run and gun” model filming.
AI Fun: Real-time recognition and Auto Framing are among the many new AI choices right here.

Now, stuff that raised an eyebrow:

4K 60 Cropped Video: At this level, within the yr of our Lord 2025, I consider any model new full-frame mannequin costing over $2500 ought to have 4K 60 uncropped. The R6, the R8, the Z6III, … all fashions that each one supply 4K60 uncropped (technically, the Z7II has a 1.08 crop). That mentioned, these additionally all technically have decrease MP sensors (24.2MP or 24.5MP). But uncropped 4K 60fps is certain to be a missed function.
No 4K 120fps providing: Even my FX30 can do that (sure, at much more of a crop, however at the very least it’s provided!). To solely supply 120fps in HD is a step backward, and stunning provided that its cheaper S35 sibling can supply it in 4K.
Rolling Shutter Issues: The rolling shutter points with the Sony a7 IV have been documented previously. We have but to be hands-on with this unit, however we’ll make sure to give this a take a look at.

Sony announces the FX2, a Full-frame Cinema Camera with the perks (and limitations) of the a7 IV sensor 7

So what does this imply?

Sony’s video asserting the FX2 begins with a motto: “Your journey begins here.” The buy of this new mannequin could hinge on whether or not or not somebody already owns a Sony digicam. The FX2 is, technically, a full-frame providing for creators who’re interested by concurrently gathering stills. If you’re filming interviews and different choices the place 4K 30fps or 24fps is your major working video taste, you don’t thoughts the crop at 60fps, and/otherwise you don’t already personal a Sony digicam (stills or in any other case), the FX2 could show to be an important digicam for you. Otherwise, contemplating the 4K 60fps S35 video and the lacking 4K 120fps, the FX30 remains to be an important place to “begin” for videographers who’re simply leaping in and are video-focused.

Sony is providing the FX2 at $2699.99 for the physique, and $3,099.99 for the digicam and XLR deal with.