As a creator that works with professional clients and has a Youtube channel, I needed a camera that I could rely on for video production. A few months ago, I picked up the Sony FX3 camera and I haven’t looked back since. Below I will be talking about my overall experience using this camera, from ergonomics to image quality.
Sony FX3 Camera key features:
- 4K full-frame sensor w/ 15+ stop dynamic range and high sensitivity
- S-Cinetone, expressive cinematic look inspired by VENICE colorimetry
- Up to 4K 120p / FHD 240p 10-bit 4:2:2 and full pixel readout in all rec. modes
- Compact cage free design w/ ¼”-20 mounting points and XLR top handle
- Uninterrupted1 4K 60p rec. w/ cooling fan for effective heat sink
First impressions
Right off the bat, I noticed that this camera feels great in your hand. Between the top handle attached and the standard grip, it’s easy to film without your hands feeling fatigued. The 4K image quality (which we will touch on more shortly) is phenomenal. It’s crisp, high quality, and has a load of dynamic range. I quickly noticed that the tally lights come in handy when running two camera bodies at the same time. It’s an easy indication that you are recording and makes me wonder why every camera doesn’t have these. It also gets bonus points for the tally lights looking awesome as well.
Now let’s talk about my long-term experience.
4K everything
In 2021, 4K is the standard, especially on the professional level. What I love about the 4K in the Sony FX3 camera is — no matter if I am shooting 24fps, 30fps, 60fps or even 120fps — it’s 4k across the board. And it looks good, like really good. It’s crisp, sharp and can see detail from edge to edge.
Dynamic range
The dynamic range is amazing in Slog 2 and Slog 3. With the updated color science in these new Sony cameras, the S-Cinetone has been my go-to picture profile for an easy cinematic look. It’s perfect for quick projects or a Youtube vlog. I love that it has the flexibility to film in so many different color profiles — all of which give you a great looking image.
Different recording codecs
Cameras are advancing so quickly these days. Sometimes it’s hard for your computer to keep up with the size and complexity of these file types. Luckily, the Sony FX3 camera allows different recording options. This is perfect so you can choose between a compressed file type that is harder for your computer to process and edit (XAVC HS 4K), or larger file size that is easier for your computer to process and edit. (XAVC S-I 4K). This is amazing because you can choose depending on what is right for the project.
Low light
Ever since Sony entered the mirrorless camera world you’ve heard about how great they can be in low light. I have used many other cameras by Sony but wow, I was impressed with just how good the FX3 held up in low light. I shoot a lot of my content inside so this has really come in handy.
Reliability
Having a piece of equipment that you can rely on in the creative field is a no-brainer. With cameras continuously getting smaller while still improving image quality, things like overheating has become an issue. That’s why I love that the FX3 has a built-in internal fan. You can be confident that this will hold up no matter the conditions during a shoot.
Ergonomics
The handle is one of my favorite parts of this camera. From getting handheld footage, to holding the camera between shots, to being able to plug an XLR mic — this camera is amazing. The tally lights make it visibly easy to see you are recording from anywhere. The flip-out screen helps you get shots from all angles and not just for selfie-style vlogging.
Keep in mind
With past cameras like the Sony A7III, the ability to have the super 35 mode for video was amazing. I wish the Sony FX3 camera had that option while maintaining full resolution 4K. The camera also comes with the handle included, but the XLR mic is not. Also note: there is no EVF. This is nice because it makes the camera body smaller than some cameras. Although, if you are shooting outside, it’s something to know.
The new Sony Tough CFexpress Type A memory cards are needed, so remember you will need to invest not only in this camera, but also a lot in cards and storage.
Overall, I have been really impressed with the Sony FX3 camera. It is a perfect camera for a one-man band creator. It’s easy to use, reliable, and the image coming out of this camera swings way above its weight class.
