Customers have good things to say about the exceptional video quality and the overall performance of this camera. Users frequently highlight its ease of use, reliable autofocus, and professional design as standout features. While the price and sensor size are also appreciated, some users noted issues regarding the inclusion of the battery. Overall, the product is highly regarded for its impressive capabilities and value.
Sony’s back-illuminated 20.1 megapixels APS-C Exmor R CMOS sensor (Super 35 format) achieves high sensitivity, low noise, and wide dynamic latitude. 6K oversampling compresses a vast amount of information into 4K output.
The FX30 includes S-Cinetone, the same color science that produces the highly regarded FX9 and FX6 color and skin tones. It's easy to achieve a beautiful cinematic look without post-production grading.
Cine EI offers wide latitude and the highest image quality. Cine EI Quick automatically switches the base ISO according to the selected Exposure Index. Flexible ISO provides the greatest flexibility for exposure settings.
Up to 16 user LUTs (look up tables) can be imported into the camera via memory card. Custom LUTs can be applied to the LCD monitor and HDMI output for an accurate preview of the final image. LUTs can also be embedded in clips to facilitate post-production processing.
The Dual Base ISO (ISO 800 and ISO 2500) allows you to maximize the dynamic range. A wide 14+ stop latitude makes it easier to shoot top-quality images in just about any shooting situation.
The S-Log3 gamma curve has been designed for smooth gradations and to achieve cinematic image quality. Both S-Log3 and S-Gamut3.Cine offers high-quality color reproduction over a wide latitude during post processing.
Real-time Eye AF ensures precise focus on the face and eyes. Real-time Tracking provides tracking thanks to unique AI-based subject recognition algorithms even when shooting at high 120p frame rates.
Active Mode utilizes an in-body 5-axis sensor shifts image stabilizer and provides increased stabilization. A gyroscope sensor measures camera shake and compensates optically, making stable video possible.
10-bit 4:2:2 video can be recorded internally using Long GOP or All Intra compression. XAVC HS format recording, using the HEVC/H.265 codec, roughly doubles the compression efficiency. XAVC S-I 4K and XAVC S-I HD formats provide per-frame Intra compression.
4K recording at up to 120 frames per second. Smooth 5x (max.) slow-motion imagery at QFHD resolution with autofocus. The ability to capture moving subjects in smooth slow motion opens up a whole new world of creative potential.
16-bit RAW output is available over HDMI connection to compatible external recorders. XAVC HS 4K, XAVC S 4K, or XAVC S-I 4K, and proxy, files are simultaneously captured in-camera. RAW video output is 4672 x 2628 [16:9] resolution.
Creative Looks make it easy to create interesting moods. The Creative Look presets can be used as is or further customized using individual parameter settings. Users' preferences and favorite settings can be registered as custom looks.
AF Assist smoothly switches between auto and manual focus. Focus Map visualizes depth of field while shooting. Breathing Compensation provides a stable angle of view by minimizing the field-of-view shift that can occur with some lenses.
For uninterrupted 4K 60p recording, the FX30 features an innovative heat dissipation structure, including a unique Sony Σ (sigma) shaped graphite-alloy heatsink. A complete internal redesign optimized the camera’s airflow and heatsink placement.
The camera records five types of metadata: LUTs, image stabilization, focus breathing, camera rotation and shot marks. These can be useful when previewing and preparing to edit in Sony's free Catalyst Browse or purchased Catalyst Prepare software.
Low-bitrate HD proxy files can be recorded simultaneously in nearly all recording formats. The smaller proxy video files can be used for editing previews prior to final 4K editing, reducing computer load and enabling a faster workflow.
The XLR handle unit provides two XLR audio inputs to facilitate high-quality audio recording. There is also a 3.5 mm stereo mini jack for 4-channel recording. The Multi-interface shoe can be used with compatible Sony microphones.
The FX30 can be synchronized (TC-IN) to a second camera with a time code output terminal by connecting the Multi/Micro USB terminal to the time code source via an optional VMC-BNCM1 adaptor and a standard BNC cable.
The FX30 can shoot stills as well as movies; it can be handy to use when you are location hunting. For example, you can use it to shoot stills that will be used in storyboards or pre-production presentations.
The camera’s new list-style main menu gives you access to frame rate, shutter speed, and other essential shooting parameters. The main menu display can be assigned to a custom button so that parameters can be quickly checked and edited.
The large 3.0 type 2.36 million-dot (approx.)side-opening vari-angle rear touch-panel LCD monitor provides clear viewing in bright outdoor settings. The function (Fn) menu can be displayed by swiping up on the monitor.
An HDMI Type-A connector can be used to feed 4K, 16-bit RAW, or other movie formats. Other connectors include USB Type-C, Multi/Micro-USB, mic, headphone, and a Multi Interface Shoe. It also can serve as a streaming camera or webcam.
Two media slots are compatible with Cfexpress Type A cards and SDXC/SDHC cards supporting UHS-I and UHS-II speed classes. Dual slots enable either relay or simultaneous recording.
Recording (tally) lamps are provided on the upper front and rear of the camera. Illuminated REC button links to the rear recording lamp. A red frame appears on the monitor display when recording is in progress.
The zoom lever controls compatible powered zoom lenses. It also allows Clear Image Zoom to be used with other lenses. Zoom speed can be assigned or selected conditionally depending on whether the camera is in standby mode or recording.