Sony FX30 Digital Cinema Camera with XLR Handle Unit
Your Ticket to Cinema Mastery
Leveraging the power of a newly-developed APS-C sensor, the Sony FX30 provides everyday content creators and aspiring filmmakers with a powerful, yet accessible cinema camera with which to push their cinematic journey to new heights. It blends an imaging pipeline designed for cinematic capture with a comprehensive feature set and intuitive operation to create a complete system for all levels of filmmaking.
Cinematic Expression
26MP APS-C/Super 35mm Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor
The FX30's advanced imaging system is on par with other options in Sony's Cinema Line?capturing detailed 10-bit UHD 4K imagery at up to 120 fps?giving it specs fitting a true cinema camera. The newly-developed 26MP APS-C Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ XR processor are able to create high-quality 4K images with the Super 35mm (16:9) area. This system is capable of capturing 14 stops of dynamic range and benefits from Dual Base ISO architecture to improve low-light performance.
- High-sensitivity recording at up to ISO 32000 and Dual Base ISO (800/2500).
- When using S-Log3, the FX30 can capture 14 stops of dynamic range.
- Record in 10-bit 4:2:2 using advanced XAVC HS and XAVC S-I formats.
- Full pixel readout from the 6K sensor creates high-quality UHD 4K video at up to 60 fps.
- High-speed shooting is possible in 4K at up to 120 fps with a 1.6x crop and in Full HD up to 240 fps.
- The HDMI output supports 16-bit raw video to select, separately available recorders.
Professional Picture Control
Filmmakers will be able to capture images that are immediately ready to publish for projects with fast turnarounds or opt for maximum quality and flexibility in post thanks to a wide array of picture control options:
- S-Cinetone uses the same color science as Sony's advanced cinema cameras, including the VENICE line, with natural midtones, soft colors, and smooth highlight roll-off.
- Picture Profiles, such as S-Log3 and HLG, will capture images with expanded dynamic range and flexibility for editors.
- Creative Looks can be baked into the recorded footage to create a specific mood during recording and minimize the need for editing.
- Up to 16 user-created LUTs and three presets can be set for accurately monitoring footage or previewing a specific look during shooting. These can be applied to the camera's monitor or EVF as well as the HDMI output.
Operation for All Levels
Professional features will help ensure beginners to professionals can make the most of the FX30. This includes three log shooting modes:
Cine EI ensures maximum dynamic range capture by recording at a manually selected base ISO setting and applying adjustments to metadata for monitoring and post-production.
Cine EI quick will automatically switch between the two base ISO settings for easier operation and great quality.
- Flexible ISO uses standard ISO settings for simple operation and the greatest flexibility.
Intuitive Operation and Controls
Fast Hybrid AF
Enjoy high-speed and highly accurate autofocus performance in every mode, including 4K up to 120 fps, using an advanced Fast Hybrid AF system that uses 495 points (759 points in Photo mode) spread across 90% of the image sensor.
- Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking will track the eyes of humans and animals.
- AF Assist function will automatically switch to manual focus with a turn of the lens' focus ring.
- Focus Map makes it easier to visualize the region of focus in your scene
5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization
Sony has equipped the FX30 with a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that will help create smooth imagery even when working handheld. An Active Mode is available that blends optical systems with digital optimizations to capture ultra-smooth footage. The FX30 can also record gyro movement when the optical stabilizers are turned off, which can be used in post to create a stable shot.
Comprehensive Feature Set
Plenty of Sony's cinema features have found their way into the FX30:
- Breathing compensation works with select lenses in 4K up to 60p in camera or up to 120p using Catalyst software after recording.
- Timecode sync input with optional VMC-BNCM1 Timecode Adapter Cable
- Tally lights for an easy indication that the camera is recording.
Catalyst Browse and Prepare Integration
The FX30 records a comprehensive array of metadata that can be read and used for advanced post-production work using Sony's Catalyst Browse and Prepare software.
Metadata recorded includes:
Metadata recorded includes:
- Embedded LUT and Exposure Index (EI) data.
- Gyro and lens stabilization metadata to further reduce camera shake.
- Breathing compensation can be manually controlled and adjusted.
- Camera rotation metadata will ensure the footage is displayed as intended.
- Shot marks can be added to clips during or after recording for reference
Ergonomic Form for Solo Operation
Lightweight and compact, the FX30 (in a design that matches the FX3) offers users the ability to shoot without needing a cage. Users can also enjoy smooth handheld footage thanks to a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system.
The body features multiple threaded mounting points that are ideal for accessories and a Multi Interface Shoe that supports advanced accessories. Additionally, an integrated fan ensures reliable performance during extended takes.
The body features multiple threaded mounting points that are ideal for accessories and a Multi Interface Shoe that supports advanced accessories. Additionally, an integrated fan ensures reliable performance during extended takes.
- Lightweight body weighs just 1.2 lb.
- Dedicated zoom rocker.
- Fully customizable button layout.
- Five 1/4"-20 threaded mounting points for accessories.
- Multi Interface Shoe supports advanced accessories.
- Active cooling fan permits uninterrupted shooting during extended takes.
- Sporting a matching design to the FX3, the FX30 can use many of the same accessories, such as cages, without any modifications required.
A Plethora of Connectivity Options
The FX30 is equipped with a wide array of connections to ensure maximum customization and flexibility on set:
- Full-size HDMI output features clean output up to 4K 60p as well as 16-bit raw video.
- Audio is supported on the body with a 3.5mm headphone output and a 3.5mm microphone input.
- USB-C connection can be used for high-speed data transfer or for powering the camera.
- Multi-Terminal (Micro-USB) supports various accessories, such as remotes, for expanded functionality.
- Timecode sync is available through the use of the separately available VMC-BNCM1 Timecode Adapter Cable.
- Multi Interface Shoe supports advanced accessories, including the included XLR Handle Unit.
Media Options
For recording high-bitrate footage at high frame rates the FX30 uses an advanced, versatile set of media slots. The camera features dual CFexpress Type A/SD card slots, allowing users to select between different media types for different situations. CFexpress Type A has ultra-fast speeds that can be used for the FX30's most advanced recording functions while SD cards are often more common and still have great speed and high capacities.
Advanced Audio Recording
This version comes with a detachable XLR Handle Unit that offers two XLR/TRS combo inputs for using professional audio equipment. The handle features a microphone mount, physical audio controls, and three 1/4"-20 threads for attaching accessories. It also securely mounts to the FX30 via the Multi Interface Shoe and a pair of screws.
- Ergonomic handheld operation of the camera.
- Two XLR/TRS combo inputs and one 3.5mm stereo input.
- Up to four channels of audio can be recorded.
- Three 1/4"-20 accessory mounting threads.
- Physical dials and switches for adjusting gain and other audio settings.
- Clamping microphone mount is ideal for optional camera-mounted shotgun mics.
Updated Menu System
The FX30 benefits from a tweaked control menu that makes it more intuitive to operate:
- The main menu provides a quick view of all your most important video settings, including Picture Profile, recording format, white balance, aperture, ISO, and more.
- The shooting screen relocates the information on settings and status icons to the edges of the screen so that the image remains clear.
Sony E 11mm f/1.8 Lens
Sleek and Speedy Super-Wide
Featuring an especially sleek and lightweight design, the Sony E 11mm f/1.8 is also among the widest APS-C lenses, offering a 16.5mm equivalent focal length along with a bright f/1.8 design. Perfect for selfie-style vlogging, architectural subjects, and landscape shooting, this lens's lightweight, portable design also makes it a go-to choice for travel and walkaround recording applications.
Optical Design
Ultra-wide-angle prime offers a 16.5mm equivalent focal length, making it a versatile option for subjects ranging from architecture to landscapes, as well as handheld vlogging needs.
Bright f/1.8 maximum aperture is ideal for shallow depth of field shooting and also excels in low-light conditions.
Optical design offers impressive sharpness across the frame and also contributes to high clarity by reducing color fringing and a variety fo aberrations.
Rounded 7-blade diaphragm contributes a smooth and natural bokeh quality.
Refined Focusing Performance
Linear Motor system uses two separate motors to provide quick, quiet, and precise autofocus and tracking performance. This design also contributes to more natural, intuitive Linear Response manual focus control and an AF/MF switch is located on the lens barrel for quick focus mode switching.
Internal focusing design offers more responsive focusing performance and maintains a consistent overall lens length during operation.
Suitable for close-up shooting, the minimum focusing distance is 4.7" with a 0.2x maximum magnification when using manual focus, or 5.9" with a 0.13x magnification when using autofocus.
Smooth Motion Optics (SMO) suppresses focus breathing to help maintain compositional accuracy when changing focus. This lens is also compatible with the Breathing Compensation function in select Alpha cameras.
Petite Design and Intuitive Handling
Dust- and moisture-resistant design suits working in inclement conditions.
Customizable focus hold button on the lens barrel for intuitive tactile control and rapid access to select settings.
When paired with a camera featuring Active Mode stabilization, the ultra-wide focal length works perfectly to produce stable shots while walking, along with a pleasing balance of subject and background in the frame when used at arm's length.
Lens measures 2.3" long and weighs 6.4 oz, making it a great portable choice that's well-suited to the sleeker size of APS-C bodies.
