Sony has released a version 2.00 firmware update for the FX3. This new update adds Log shooting modes, LUT import and timecode synchronization with a dedicated adapter cable.
Log shooting modes
The FX3 gained new Log shooting modes. So what exactly does this mean? Well, now you can choose to shoot in Cine EI, Cine EI Quick and Flexible ISO modes to record with the S-Log3 gamma curve. All three modes allow video shooting while monitoring with an appropriate LUT to preview the final image.
S-Log2 is no longer included. After the update, you will need to use the S-Log3 gamma setting.
Cine EI & Cine EI Fast
Cine EI and Cine EI Quick are modes that use the base camera ISO of 800/12800. According to Sony, the Cine EI and Cine EI Quick modes produce images that can be adjusted in post-production to balance highlights and shadows while taking advantage of the wide latitude of S-Log3.
The main difference between Cine EI Fast and Cine EI is that when you select Cine EI Fast, the two base ISOs available (800 and 12800) are automatically set based on the selected EI. In normal Cine EI mode, base ISO values must be set manually.
Soft ISO
Flexible ISO is meant to be a quick and easy mode that allows users to change ISO to make exposure adjustments. Sony doesn’t elaborate on this mode, however, it basically lets you shoot in Log at any ISO you like.
LUTs
The version 2.00 update also includes preset LUTs, such as Sony’s s709, while retaining popular picture profiles such as S-Cinetone. Users can now also import their own LUTs. Any LUT you import can also be “embedded” in your footage if you save it as an image profile.
You can load up to 16 user LUTs on the FX3.
Timecode synchronization
The FX3 now has the ability to input timecode using a dedicated adapter cable. The cable must be purchased separately and is called the VMC-BNCM1. This cable is a USB to BNC adapter, it is only compatible with the FX3 (and it will not work with Sony alpha cameras such as the a7S III or a1.
Other New Features
This latest update also includes the following additional features:
- New list-style main menu screen that provides quick access to frequently used items
- Pop-up (Fn) function menu display by swiping up on the screen
- New video screen saver provides an unobstructed view of the subject
- AF (autofocus) assist function to smoothly switch between auto and manual focus
- FX3 now includes additional features to aid the creative workflow, such as post-production editing using built-in LUT and EI (exposure) metadata. Additionally, two types of shot markers have been added, allowing users to mark specific shots or scenes. This metadata is available using the latest version of Sony’s Catalyst Prepare or Catalyst Browse applications. A new “Catalyst Prepare Plugin” for Adobe Premiere Pro is due out in August.
To note: As this update adds features and makes major specification changes, camera settings will be initialized as part of the update process. It is recommended that you write down all camera settings before proceeding. Even if you have saved the settings using the various save functions available (such as Save/Load Settings and Save/Load FTP Settings), settings prior to version 1.01 cannot be read by the camera after upgrading to version 2.00.