Sony Alpha FX3 ILME-FX3 Full-frame Cinema Line Camera
Rating
Product Overview
The Sony Alpha FX3 ILME-FX3 is a full-frame cinema line camera designed for solo movie shooting. It features a 10.2MP full-frame sensor, 4K 120p recording, and S-Cinetone color science. The camera has a compact, cage-free design with multiple mounting points and an XLR top handle. It offers high sensitivity with an ISO range up to 409,600 and 15+ stops of dynamic range. The FX3 is equipped with in-body image stabilization and a cooling fan for uninterrupted recording, making it suitable for professional video production.
Product Specifications
Size & Weight
Features
A function that compensates for camera shake within the camera body. It reduces blur in photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions or when using telephoto lenses. Allows for sharper images without a tripod.
The in-body image stabilization (IBIS) compensates for camera shake, allowing for sharper images and smoother video, especially in low-light conditions or when using telephoto lenses. This feature is crucial for handheld shooting and reduces the need for a tripod.
A function that automatically detects and focuses on the subject's eyes. It ensures sharp focus on the eyes, which is critical for portrait photography. Useful for capturing clear and expressive portraits.
The Eye Detection AF automatically detects and focuses on the subject's eyes, ensuring sharp focus in portraits and interviews. This feature is particularly useful for capturing clear and expressive shots of people, making it easier to maintain focus on the most important part of the subject.
A function that allows the LCD screen to be tilted upwards or downwards. It makes it easier to compose shots from high or low angles. Enables more creative and comfortable shooting positions.
This camera does not have a tilting LCD screen function. Therefore, composing shots from high or low angles might be challenging, requiring external monitors or alternative viewing solutions to achieve the desired framing and perspective.
A function that allows connecting an external microphone for improved audio quality. It enhances audio recording for videos, making them sound clearer and more professional. Beneficial for vlogging or recording interviews.
The external microphone input allows for connecting an external microphone for improved audio quality, making it ideal for vlogging and professional video recording. The inclusion of XLR inputs on the top handle further enhances audio capabilities, providing high-quality audio capture for interviews and other critical audio scenarios.
A function that allows the camera to be powered via USB. It allows you to continuously power the camera using a power bank or wall adapter. Useful for extended shooting sessions or time-lapse photography.
The USB power supply function allows the camera to be powered via USB, enabling extended shooting sessions without worrying about battery life. This feature is particularly useful for time-lapse photography, long interviews, or any situation where continuous power is needed.
A function that highlights areas in focus on the LCD screen or viewfinder. It assists with manual focusing, making it easier to achieve sharp focus. Helpful when using manual focus lenses or in challenging focusing situations.
The focus peaking function highlights areas in focus on the LCD screen or viewfinder, assisting with manual focusing and ensuring sharp images when using manual focus lenses. This feature is helpful when using vintage lenses or in challenging focusing situations, providing a visual aid to achieve precise focus.
SHOPSTAFF Rating Score
The Sony FX3 is a compact and capable cinema camera, excelling in low-light performance and offering a range of professional video features. It's positioned as a mid-range option within Sony's cinema line, balancing portability with high-quality output. Expect reliable performance for several years with proper care. Ideal for run-and-gun shooting and gimbal work.
Brand & Manufacturer Details
Key Highlights
- Excellent low-light performance.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Professional video features like S-Cinetone.
Considerations
- Lower megapixel count compared to some stills cameras.
- Battery life can be a limitation during extended shoots.
- External accessories may be needed for a complete setup.
Recommended For
- Videographers
- Filmmakers
- Content creators
Not Recommended For
- Photographers primarily focused on high-resolution stills
- Beginners looking for a simple point-and-shoot camera
- none in particular
Suitable For
- Documentary filmmaking
- Independent film production
- Vlogging
Not Suitable For
- Sports photography
- Wildlife photography
- none in particular
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q.I'm looking for a camera for professional video work, particularly in low light conditions. Is the Sony FX3 a good choice?
Q.I'm concerned about the camera overheating during long recording sessions. Does the Sony FX3 have any features to prevent this?
Q.I use Sigma lenses with my current camera and am wondering if they'll work well with the Sony FX3.
Q.I need a camera that's easy to rig with accessories. Does the Sony FX3 offer flexible mounting options?
Q.I'm new to professional filmmaking. Is the Sony FX3 easy to learn and use?
Q.Is this camera Netflix approved?
Q.I am concerned about the quality control of the product. What if some of the accessories are missing from the box?
SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking
The Canon EOS R5: a full-frame mirrorless camera with 8K video, 45MP sensor, and advanced autofocus.
| Image Sensor Size | - mm | Effective Pixels | 45 MP |
| ISO Range | 100-51200 | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 12 fps |
| Video Resolution | 8K | Mount Type | RF |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | - g |
Sony
Alpha 1 ILCE1/B Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera
$5,398(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-26
The Sony Alpha 1: high-resolution, high-speed full-frame mirrorless camera for creators capturing the impossible.
| Image Sensor Size | - mm | Effective Pixels | 50.1 MP |
| ISO Range | 50 | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 30 fps |
| Video Resolution | 8k 30p | Mount Type | Sony E |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | - g |
The Canon EOS R5 Mark II: a high-performance mirrorless camera with advanced features for stunning photos and videos.
| Image Sensor Size | - mm | Effective Pixels | 45 MP |
| ISO Range | - | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 30 fps |
| Video Resolution | 8K | Mount Type | Canon RF |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | - g |
The Canon EOS R1 is a top-tier full-frame mirrorless camera designed for professional action photography.
| Image Sensor Size | 36 x 24 mm | Effective Pixels | 24.2 MP |
| ISO Range | 50-51200 | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 40 fps |
| Video Resolution | 6K/60p | Mount Type | Canon RF |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | 1134 g |
The Canon EOS R5 Mark II: a high-performance mirrorless camera with advanced features for stunning photos and videos.
| Image Sensor Size | 36 x 24 mm | Effective Pixels | 45 MP |
| ISO Range | 50- - | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 30 fps |
| Video Resolution | 8K | Mount Type | Canon RF |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | 680 g |
