Sony fs7

Types of Sony FS7

The Sony FS7 camera comes in two models: the original model and the Sony FS7 Mark II model. Both cameras are designed for professional camcording and documentary-style filming.

• FS7 (original model)

  The original model of the Sony FS7 features a Super 35mm CMOS sensor with an excellent sensitivity range. It supports a range of video formats, including XDcam, AVCi, and up to 240fps prores in 4K. The FS7 offers full HD capture with variable frame rates from 1 to 59.94, with a 4K option at 30p or 24p. The FS7 is equipped with a variable ND filter that can control shallow depth of field, even in bright sunlight. One amazing feature of the FS7 is that it can capture 4K video while simultaneously outputting a full HD proxy for editing right away. With its responsive and intuitive design, the FS7 allows for seamless operation when shooting documentaries or events. It has a flexible handgrip and a removable electronic viewfinder that can be switched between left and right eyes. The camera also provides slow-motion playback and variable frame rate capture for enhanced post-production. The FS7 is designed with an efficient energy system that will keep it running for hours, making it easier for operators to shoot in extended time without interruptions.

• FS7 Mark II

  The FS7 Mark II is an upgrade of the original FS7 model. It features a newly designed 4K super-35mm sensor, which offers an improved color reproduction and a wide dynamic range of up to 14 stops. The FS7 Mark II supports a wide range of recording formats, including XAVC and MPEG-4 AVC. It has also increased the maximum resolution for recording to 4K, where it can capture video at 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p, as well as HD at 120p/100p/60p/50p. The design of the FS7 Mark II is better than the original model. It has a more ergonomic body with a removable grip and an expanded viewfinder. This allows for greater flexibility and comfort when operating the camera. The FS7 Mark II is also integrated with a more extensive set of recorded aids, like focus peaking, zebra patterns, and waveform monitors.

Function and Features

Users have praised the Sony FS7 for its 4K capabilities, wide dynamic range, HDR support, and exceptional low-light performance. Its rugged build and ergonomic design also received accolades, making it suitable for various cinematography shoots. The camera's XAVC codec and high frame rates enable smooth and high-quality recordings.

The functions and features of the Sony FS7 revolve around delivering professional-grade video production capabilities in a compact and versatile package. Here are some of the key functions and features:

• Super 35mm Sensor

  The Sony FS7 features a large Super 35mm image sensor that enables filmmakers to produce videos with cinematic-quality depth-of-field effects, high sensitivity, and wide dynamic range.

• 4K Video Recording

  Both the PXW-Zw490 and PXW-Zw420 models can record 4K video, with the PXW-ZW490 recording 4K at 60p and providing full bandwidth (QFHD). The FS7 also supports various 4K codecs for flexible post-production workflows.

• XAVC Codec

  The FS7 supports the XAVC codec for efficient video compression and high-quality recordings. XAVC includes Long GOP and Intra-frame recording options to meet different production needs.

• Variable ND Filters

  FS7 cameras have unique neutral density (ND) filters that can be changed while filming (filtered density changed). These filters help control the amount of light entering the camera without affecting color or depth of field.

• Picture Profiles and LUT Support

  The FS7 offers customizable picture profiles for different looks and supports lookup tables (LUTs) for real-time color grading.

• Slow Motion Recording

  The FS7 can record in slow motion for breathtaking effects. Speedy footage makes it easier to analyze an event or make an advertisement. The camera can record slow-motion videos up to 180 frames per second (fps) in full HD (1920x1080) resolution.

• Robust Build and Ergonomic Design

  FS7 cameras have a sturdy but comfortable design that makes it easy to shoot videos for long periods. Filmmakers can carry the camera anywhere without feeling fatigued.

• XLR Audio Inputs

  The camera has XLR audio inputs to connect professional microphones and record high-quality sound to complement the video footage.

• Wi-Fi and NFC Connectivity

  Wireless connectivity options allow remote control and monitoring of the camera. They also allow fast transfer of files to mobile devices for sharing and editing.

Scenarios of Sony FS7

A Sony FS7 camera can be used to produce many different types of videos. It is suitable for professional and high-end videography applications, making it versatile.

• Documentary Filmmaking

  The FS7 is more helpful in telling real-life stories. It can capture events, interviews, and other videos in real time. It helps filmmakers to present human experiences with emotion and depth. The FS7 also has many features that make it best for adventure documentaries filmed in rough terrains. It has a rugged body with good weather sealing. It can withstand bad weather and conditions. It also has a slow motion feature that helps the filmmaker to capture real events in detail. Extreme adventures can be filmed clearly with a 4K resolution. Several compression options also permit filmmakers to take control of file sizes.

• Sports Coverage

  Documentaries are not the only type of videos that can be shot with the FS7. This camera is also used to film sports events that are aired on television. The picture may be clear to the viewer, even if the sports player is moving very fast. This is because the camera has a very high-quality resolution. The Frame Rate is also very high, which means that many images are shown each second. So, even if the player runs quickly, the video playback will not be unclear, and the viewer can watch what is happening clearly. This camera also shows many images at once, and the editor can see each move the player made. Then, the editor can decide which image to use in the video. This will make it easy to show every important detail. So, cameras like this one are very important for sports videos, where it is critical to see every important detail of what the player does.

• Corporate Video Production

  FS7 makes much difference in the quality of videos used by companies to inform their workers and customers. The camera is easier to use. So, people need less money and time to train users. The camera also helps to mix sounds and moving images better than before. Sounds like voices and music the viewer will bleed are clearer. The visuals are accompanied by better quality sounds. It is also more flexible. Videos can be made in many formats, whether the company wants the video to be viewed on its website or on television. Different parts of the video can be filmed in different resolutions, whether the interview needs to be in 4K and the rest of the video in Full HD. With modern editing tools, the video will be better for the target audience.

How to choose Sony FS7

When shopping for a Sony 4K FS7 camera, buyers should be aware of the different models available, as there are two versions of the FS7 and the FS7 II. The FS7 II has a superior version in several aspects, such as the following:

• The FS7 II has a more versatile lens mount that is compatible with more lenses than the original FS7.
• Touchscreen capability is available in the FS7 II, which is absent in the first model.
• The FS7 II is heavier, which allows it to be more stable against shakiness. The first model weighs 1.9 kg, while the FS7 II weighs 2.5 kg.
• It has a more complex menu system, which provides more options to users. Hence, users should ideally have some basic knowledge of camera systems and operating before using the menu functions on the FS7 II.
• Firmware updates are more readily available for the FS7 II, and owners can update the software easily when notified with the camera plugged into a PC using a memory card.
• Users can customize buttons on the FS7 II camera to suit their preferences, which provides greater flexibility and efficiency in their shooting workflow.

Buyers can also get firmware updates for the original FS7, but they need to get in touch with Sony and see if it is still eligible for updates. Another alternative is to update the firmware, but the buyers need to verify the parts inside the camera are still original and pending for an update. It is much easier to upgrade when the camera is still new and the parts are verified to be original.

Buyers should also consider how many cameras they will need to purchase for their production team. The first model allows simultaneous recording to two different media cards, which media card types are today often referred to as XQD and SD. Using one camera, two media cards can be recorded simultaneously, instead of buying two cameras for two different operators.

When it comes to purchasing, buyers can buy new and used Sony FS7 cameras. As seen above, the two have different specifications, but the FS7 II offers 4K HD output, while the used FS7 camera offers full HD output. Buyers should consider their budget and the price mentioned above when buying new or used cameras.

Finally, buyers should consider whether they need the camera for documentary shooting and nature. The FS7 has a variable ND filter that is useful for controlling exposure when the aperture or shutter angle is locked down. It is also handy for bloggers and documentary filmmakers who must adapt to changing light conditions.

Q&A

Q1: Is the FS7 a 4K camera?

A1: Yes, the Sony FS7 camera can record 4K video.

Q2: How much is a Sony PXW FS7?

A2: The prices for cameras differ depending on retailers and specific models. It is best to check various camera equipment suppliers for current pricing information.

Q3: What kind of memory card does the FS7 use?

A3: The FS7 uses Sony's XQD cards for the original models and CFast 2.0 memory cards for the FS7 II.

Q4: When will the FS7 II be released?

A4: The Sony FS7 II was released in 2016, and as of now, there’s no official word on a new model.