Sony FX3 Full-Frame Cinema Camera (ILME-FX3) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Sony FX3 Full-Frame Cinema Camera (ILME-FX3) is designed for solo shooters and travel applications, serving as a portable cinema camera. It integrates features from both Sony's Cinema Line and Alpha series. The FX3 features a lightweight, handheld form factor with a streamlined profile and a 'cage-free' design, allowing direct attachment of various accessories to the camera body. Its 12.1MP Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor (10.2MP effective in video mode) and BIONZ XR processor enable UHD 4K video capture with internal 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling or 16-bit raw output. The sensor's BSI design enhances clarity and sensitivity, offering an expandable ISO 80-409,600 range and over 15 stops of dynamic range for diverse lighting conditions.

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety instructions carefully before using the camera. Retain this manual for future reference.

• Power Source: Use only the specified battery and charger. Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery.
• Water and Moisture: This camera is not waterproof. Avoid exposure to rain, moisture, or high humidity to prevent electric shock or malfunction.
• Temperature: Do not expose the camera to extreme temperatures (hot or cold). Operating temperature range is typically 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).
• Handling: Handle the camera with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting it to strong impacts.
• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use organic solvents.
• Disposal: Dispose of batteries and electronic components according to local regulations.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• Sony FX3 Full-Frame Cinema Camera (ILME-FX3)
• XLR Handle Unit
• Accessory Shoe Cap
• Accessory Shoe Kit
• Sony BC-QZ1 Battery Charger
• Body Cap
• Handle Shoe Cap
• Power Cord
• Sony NP-FZ100 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery (2280mAh)
• USB Type-A to Type-C Cable (USB 3.2)
• Lilliput A7S 7" Full HD Monitor
• 2 x SanDisk SecureDigital 64GB Extreme PRO Memory Card
• Soft Bag
• 3 x NP-FZ100 Compatible Battery
• LED Light
• Memory Card Reader
• Corel Photo Software (PhotoMirage, AfterShot, Painter Essentials, PaintShop Pro, Video Studio)
• Rode VideoMicro Ultracompact Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone
• 12-inch Flexible Tripod
• Hand Strap
• Memory Card Wallet
• Lens Cap Keeper
• Cleaning Kit
• HDMI Cable

4. Camera Overview

Familiarize yourself with the physical components and controls of your Sony FX3 camera.

Figure 4.1: Front view of the Sony FX3 camera body, showing the E-mount for interchangeable lenses and the full-frame sensor. The grip is visible on the left side.

Figure 4.2: Front view of the Sony FX3 camera with a Zeiss Sonnar FE 55mm F1.8 ZA lens attached. This illustrates the camera's compact form with a lens.

Figure 4.3: Rear view of the Sony FX3, displaying the LCD screen, control dial, and various buttons such as MENU, FOCUS MAG, Fn, DISP, ZEBRA, PEAKING, SHUTTER, and playback controls.

Figure 4.4: Front view of the Sony FX3 with the LCD screen articulated outwards, demonstrating its flexible viewing angles for various shooting scenarios.

Figure 4.5: Top-rear perspective of the Sony FX3, showing the articulated LCD screen, a mounted lens, and top-panel controls including the record button and mode dial.

Figure 4.6: Left side view of the Sony FX3, revealing the battery compartment and dual CFexpress Type A/SDXC card slots, secured by a lock/open mechanism.

Figure 4.7: Right side view of the Sony FX3, displaying various input/output ports including HDMI, USB-C (MULTI), USB-A (CHG), headphone jack, and microphone input with plug-in power.

5. Setup

5.1. Battery Installation and Charging

1. Open the battery cover on the left side of the camera (refer to Figure 4.6).
2. Insert the NP-FZ100 battery with the arrow facing inward until it locks into place.
3. Close the battery cover.
4. To charge, remove the battery and insert it into the supplied BC-QZ1 charger. Connect the charger to a power outlet using the power cord. The charging indicator will illuminate during charging and turn off when complete.

5.2. Memory Card Installation

1. Open the memory card slot cover on the left side of the camera (refer to Figure 4.6).
2. Insert a CFexpress Type A or SDXC memory card into the appropriate slot until it clicks. Ensure the card is oriented correctly.
3. Close the memory card slot cover.
4. Format the memory card in the camera before first use to ensure optimal performance.

5.3. Attaching Accessories

• XLR Handle Unit: Attach the XLR handle unit to the multi-interface shoe on top of the camera. Secure it using the locking mechanism.
• Lilliput A7S 7" Monitor: Connect the monitor to the camera via an HDMI cable (refer to Figure 4.7 for HDMI port location). Mount the monitor using a suitable mounting solution.
• Rode VideoMicro Microphone: Connect the microphone to the camera's microphone input jack (refer to Figure 4.7).

5.4. Initial Power-On and Basic Settings

1. Press the POWER button to turn on the camera.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to set the date, time, and language.
3. Adjust basic settings such as video format (e.g., XAVC S-I 4K), frame rate, and picture profile (e.g., S-Cinetone) as needed for your shooting requirements.

6. Operating the Camera

6.1. Basic Video Recording

1. Power On: Turn on the camera using the POWER button.
2. Select Mode: Use the MODE button or dial to select your desired shooting mode (e.g., Movie mode).
3. Adjust Settings: Set ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. The FX3 offers an expandable ISO range of 80-409,600.
4. Focus: Utilize the Fast Hybrid AF system. The camera supports Face Tracking and Eye AF for precise subject focus.
5. Start/Stop Recording: Press the REC button (often located on the top or front grip) to start recording. Press again to stop.

6.2. Advanced Video Features

• 4K Video Capture: The camera supports UHD 4K up to 120fps and 1080p up to 240fps.
• Internal Recording: Record internally with 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling using XAVC S-I.
• Raw Output: Output 16-bit raw video via HDMI to compatible external recorders.
• Color Profiles: Use S-Cinetone for cinematic color science, or S-Log3/2 for maximum dynamic range in post-production. 10-bit HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) is available for direct HDR productions.
• Dynamic Range: Benefit from over 15 stops of dynamic range for capturing detail in both highlights and shadows.

6.3. Playback

1. Press the Playback button (often marked with a triangle icon).
2. Use the control dial or directional buttons to navigate through your recorded footage.
3. Press the center button to play or pause a video.

7. Maintenance

7.1. Cleaning the Camera

• Camera Body: Wipe the camera body with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water and then wipe dry. Avoid using alcohol or other chemical cleaners.
• Lens: Use a lens brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth and lens cleaning solution.
• Sensor: Sensor cleaning should be performed with extreme care. If dust spots appear on images, use a blower brush. For persistent dust, consult a professional service center.
• LCD Screen: Gently wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth.

7.2. Storage

• When not in use for extended periods, remove the battery from the camera.
• Store the camera in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Use a desiccant to prevent mold and mildew in humid environments.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Sony FX3, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

This product is covered by Sony's standard warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Sony support website. For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or service inquiries, please contact Sony customer support.

Online Resources: For the latest firmware updates, detailed manuals, and support articles, please visit the official Sony support website.