This video is going to do me wonders for my work going forward, I appreciate you taking the time to explain all these things. It really helps the younger filmmaker 🤞🏾🖤
Hey bro! Lov your videos, completely addicted to your channel since I discovered it ❤ could you please link me or give the specific model of the technique low profile xlr cable at 21:39?
You posted this 2 years ago, but I just got my FX3 and this video helped! Thanks for sharing your work flow, I'll definitely be using some of these techniques! I had a Canon M5 that was damaged by a laser and this FX3 is my first full frame camera. Can't wait to shoot with!
Fantastic explanation. The justifications for why you chose your settings was super helpful to understand why or why not I may need to adjust my own. Thank you for your attention to detail
I have owned the FX3 for over a year , and love it. I record my footage to 2 cards simultaneously. I have switched from S Log3 to S-Cinetone, because it's easier to colour grade. Because I have impaired vision I have a Portkeys/LEYE viewfinder. It solves my vision problem, and has features like false colour and Zoom .
Well done! A little surprised to hear you are having such good success with the FX3 ibis. I've found on mine, it really isnt quite as smooth as I'd expect. I'm not sure if it's just coming from Panasonic, but have been a little unimpressed. Great info for everyone!
I feel like I should pay this guy. 🤔 Damn, most UA-camrs would make a 20 minute video on each Topic you mentioned. But this is straight Gold, no nonsense straight to the point. I literally saved this in my folder, first time I saved a creators video.
Awesome video Thomas, going to invest in an FX3 soon so this was clutch to have available. Thank you for all the details, hyped to see what you shoot with it.
Great Video, just got this camera for more run and gun work. 1. Do you ever miss having a viewfinder? 2. With No external record monitor, do you shoot in simultaneous Mode in case you ever had a card failure? If I have my record monitor hooked up, I use that as my backup record, If not I use simultaneous mode and record same footage to both cards.
thanks! Nope I haven't missed the viewfinder, I enjoy the smaller size! I always dual record- have never used external recording bc I've been happy with the internal codecs and the smaller form factor
Nice auto focus should be priority guys I have a Sony a7ii and even if am only thing standing in front of the camera it still misses, its ironic as it sounds 😂
Dude, I 100% agree on “overexposing is bad on FX3”. I started doing that when I got the camera and found myself just enjoying the final result much more of shots that were correctly exposed or even slightly under exposed
Pretty crazy! I always look back and think, why didn't I just test this in the first place haha. I feel that the majority of people that complain about sony colors, are the ones that are still overexposing, so it's a pretty easy fix! haha
with the new firmware v2 yes you can! I tend to just leave it normal bc adding a lut doesn't take much time for my workflow. But I can forsure see this being nice for some
So I know you said you keep the autofocus on zone when shooting. Do you change any of the other settings? Like shift sensitivity and transition speed for example. Great content!
Yeah I try to have it neutral or more over to the slower setting, I forget exactly what I have haha. But I want the transition to be slow, so it's not snapping all over the place, and having the object sensitivity to be normal / slow
A big thank you for this usefull video. I searched in all your gear options but i didn't find the model of your light/short xlr cable you present in the video. Where can i find one please ?
Hey Thomas thanks for the great review! I got my FX3 like 2 weeks ago. I figured out that in 50p I can choose active or standard. Off, Auto and manual. In 100p Active isnt available. Okay. But: If I switch between Standard or off in 100p. Or is between standard and off no crop? Like "another stabillisation happening? Thank you for your answer
appreciate it! Hmmm, Not sure what's going on with the 100p and active Standard is just a normal IBIS that doesn't affect the crop as far as I know Active crops in about 10% I believe I think you'll be good with standard stabilization for that one
Thank you for providing this excellent video, as a beginner is always overwhelmed when it comes to the different settings in the camera, but this video is the best thing I've seen for the FX3. Thanks again
Hi Thomas, thanks for your video, I just subscribed, as I'm a long term photographer but newbie to video, keen to learn. I recently bought an FX3 and so far have just been experimented with S-Cinetone, albeit I understand that S-log 3 is the way to go for best dynamic range. As a start l figure that I could do worse than borrow from your learning and adopt your settings. So a little help and clarity, from your experience would be appreciated. My first question relates to base ISO. I'm confused. I see several commentators on YT reference a dual base ISO of 800 & 12800 (+4 stops higher). Same options too for Cine-EI. But you reference ISO 640 as the base ISO as do one or two others as well?? OK it's only 1/3 stop, but which is it 640 or 800? My second query (causing me great confusion) relates to frame rate options, which is further complcated by regional TV standard (NTSC or PAL) selected and file formats set on FX3. I'd really appreciate help and clarity with this.... The FX3 can be set to either NTSC or PAL - it seems to switch off and do a 'reboot' when switching or re-initialising. These standards seem incompatible and cause subsequent FPS settings limitations!!? I'm in UK (PAL region, rather than NTSC). For UK should I be using PAL or NTSC or doesn't it matter? Apart from subsequent FPS limitations available on FX3 - which is really confusing me. I read that 24 FPS is the 'Cinematic' or gold standard and 30 is better for 'realism and/or action'. Higher rates (eg 60 or 120) yield slow-motion when set/editing in a 24 FPS timeline (eg in DaVinci Resolve). I further understand that although one can capture/shoot in different frame rates that the edited output can only be a single rate eg one of 24, 25, 30, 60 etc but that typically 24 is chosen for a more 'cinematic look, albeit 30 is more common for TV/video and 25 for UK, Europe, Australia etc. Conceptually that all, just about, makes sense. But then FX3 options get closed down ..... On FX3, if NTSC is initialised then highly compressed H.265 used via file setting XAVC HS 4K (your preferred recording format) then frame rate options are 24, 60 & 120 FPS (rounded). Not 30? If changing file format to highest quality/size then it's 24, 30 or 60 FPS not 120!? This is probably a function of data rate throughput that can be handled by camera's processor and card data bandwidth (maximised on CF Express or V90 SD cards, but not an optionon with V30/V60 SD cards). If changing file format to basic (less data throughput) ie XAVC S 4K, then 24, 30, 60 & 120 FPS can be set. But FPS options and limitations get even more odd/confusing if initialising in European PAL standard! I'm told over here (ie in UK) that typically one works in a 25 FPS timeline output, albeit if shooting on most smartphones (eg as a second cam) these mostly will only record at 30 FPS (leading to jerky dropped frame issues when outputting at 25 FPS). On FX3 (with PAL) if using your preferred H.265 compressed quality then frame rates available are just 50 or 100 FPS (no 25 option). Switching to the highest quality codek (big files) XAVC S-I 4K (aka all intra) then one can pick just 50 & 100 FPS (again no 25). But if dropping quality to the XAVC S 4K codek file recording format, then one can pick 25, 50 or 100 FPS to record. I broadly appreciate the FPS math ie in a 25 FPS output then recorded footage at 50 FPS plays at half speed and 100 FPS plays at a quarter 'real times' speed. Whilst in NTSC regions, the 24 FPS standard output can handle 30, 60 and 120 recorded FPS (with no dropped frames, as all share a math factor of 6). Thus in a 24 FPS output that 30 FPS recording plays at 4/5 or 80% of perceived 'normal rate, 60 FPS at 40% and 120 FPS at 1/5 or 20% 'normal speed.
Hi Thomas, thanks for giving me a different perspective than most YT reviews that had pretty much convinced me that I needed to rig out my FX3 extensively. I now have a lot of rig options but as a newbie I really need to get out and practice, learn, practice some more. So much to learn, it all takes time, but I know getting out, practicing is the only real way to progress. I subscribed and will now make a point of looking to find my ideal set-ups for minimalist (hobby / travel) as well as medium and maximalist rigs.
Could be the best "FX3" review and settings video out there. Real world, real honest if you ask me. I suppose most is applicable to the FX30? Do you edit the videos out of this camera on you speced out Mac Mini?
appreciate it! yep it should be pretty 1:1 for most of the sony mirrorless line! I have a m1 max 16" MacBook Pro now, 32gb ram, 24core, 1tb ssd. But I was working off of the Mac mini for a while! Both crush
Nice video, thank you! Big question, from all my research, active ibis does not work with third party lenses (sigma). There’s a couple videos demonstrating this and it looks like night and day compared to Sony glass. It still, however, crops in. I already watched your lens video and was about to get the sigma, but then stumbled on this lack of active ibis issue. What’s your take on it, because in this video you said you sometimes use active. Thanks!
Love ❤️ you. The best video about FX3 ever… so much knowledge and practical tips explained naturally and with passion! Thanks 🙏 a lot, wish you growing success!!!🎉
hwy quick question have you ever had any issues in editing in slow motion on the fx3 since the software update 3.0? i havent been able to edit on slow mo no matter what i do on the settings can the lens be part of that issue? i have a GM sony e mount 14mm 1.4 FE
I watched a video where you mention building your own rec 709 ? Im curious how you got your gamma assist to use the custom lut instead of the Sony Rec 709. Thank you in advance !
Do you need an external mic connected to get Audio? Sorry if it's a basic question but I know the FX6 doesn't have an in built mic so was wondering if the FX3 has one. I don't like the idea of another accessory and just wanted to use the inbuilt one if it's there. I want to take it on my travels and wanted a slim downed cinema camera I can take.
No worries! The camera has a built in scratch mic, but it’s not as nice as a shotgun / on camera mic of course I use the Sony B10 for travel- it connects digitally through the hot shoe so no cables or batteries to worry about
No need to +2 exposure since all sony cameras from a7siii and forward. Older cameras need to be overexposed in slog3. There is even a whitepaper from sony explaining.
Hey Thomas! Great Video but I didn't really get how u expose it correctly if ur ISO is "fixed" ur Shutter Speed is fixed and u want to adjust the aperture to ur taste for Shot. Are u working with ND filters all the way? like using 640 if its too bright u use ND filter if its to dark u go with 12800 and use ND? Maybe a silly question but Im just diving into everything :)
hey thanks! Yeah so ill go deeper into that in another video, but essentially you just adjust aperture for taste / to bring down exposure a tiny bit. I'm solely using NDs. I always use 640 no matter what, then in low light ill go with 12800 and add ND just bc its so sensitive. With 640 ill still use a 3 and 6 stop during the day!
Wow! What an excellent overview. Pretty much how I have come to shoot with it. Thanks for the 4 channel audio tip. Nice. Flexible exposure mode is great when you finally work it out isn’t it!? Went down the same path as you! I want to shoot XAVC-HS (currently shoot S). Do you genuine have no editing issues with the H.265 on an M1 Mac? I am still high spec Mac Mini Intel, but will upgrade. Which did you plump for? Thank you!
thank you so much! Yeah I was shocked when I found out about it! Def makes me forget about it not having shutter angle haha No issues at all on a m1 16gb ram Mac mini! On intel, you'll have issues but you can run low res proxies so you can still save space on your drives
Hey Thomas, thank you very much for this very informative video. Even though I have zero knowledge in this field but you were very helpful in covering most of the necessary details. I currently live in China and I am about to buy the FX3 to shoot (diamonds) macro, any recommendations for lenses, setups etc? Since I need to deliver a very natural color video of my products with the accurate color and dimensions. Thanks again and keep it up with the great work.
Hey! Thank you! Epic, the FX3 is an incredible camera! I highly recommend using the sigma 24-70. It's a great lens for a great deal I recommend getting fixed ND filters, I use a 3 and 6 stop, I use 2x 256gb cards, I never fill them up lol so I'm sure you'd be fine with 128gb I use 3 sony batteries too, and outside of that, rigging is pretty personal! I plan on making a video going deep into the multiple ways I rig out this camera!
@@thomas.kovacik Just seeing your reply, literally 2 days after buying the FX3, I got the Sigma 24-70 and the Sony 90 Macro G OSS, as well as 2x160GB cards. Will get those ND filters by tomorrow for sure! I went out the past 2 days and shot some very short videos. Learning Chinese definitely seems easier than all this but I guess I will be able to overcome these new little challenges with time. The good thing about living in China is that there are a couple of enormous camera markets, the drawback is that I barely know what lenses or accessories I should go after. Haven't found any cool vintage lenses yet. Any tips on this matter? Thanks Thomas!
Dude I go through the exact same thing. I like it minimal the most. But I mostly use my hybrid configuration for the sound and top handle. I run my monitor set up the least.
@@thomas.kovacik ..but I love how small and light it is with a minimal set up 😫 I could go back and forth all day. But I also have way less anxiety when I have a cage around it 😫
Subscribed! Man, loving your straightforward delivery and explanations. Also I assume once you upgraded to firmware 2.0 you are just on Flexible ISO now? As opposed to the Cine EI mode?
appreciate it! I'm currently using cine ei! I just recorded a video about my last 2 months with the new firmware update, so I should have that out in a week or so haha
@@thomas.kovacik Gotcha, I may have to try it and run some tests, I just notice noise (I'm pixel peeping for sure) in a lot of my shots at BOTH base ISOs in Flexible ISO. So maybe I've got to bite the bullet and try Cine EI
@@youngerbrotherpictures hmm that's odd- how are you exposing? The image should be the same regardless of what setting, as flexible, cine ei, and cine ei quick are basically just different styles to dial in exposure With cine ei, treat it like flexible iso / the old way These are the "neutral settings" ISO 800 / EI 800 ISO 12800 / EI 12800 I always stick to this, I dont have a reason to adjust my EI since I'm not trying to overexpose everything to bring down in post
@@thomas.kovacik Usually spot metering for what I want to expose for and keeping that area at 1.3 - 1.7. For interviews I use a gray card with the zebras set per Gerald Undone's tutorial on Slog3. On ISO 640 it looks perfectly fine, but there has been a shot or 2 even at 640 that (subconsciously) I wonder if I'm seeing noise. That said on 12,800 I see noise and I even see it in the light areas, which now that I'm thinking about it I wonder if I've been OVER-exposing on these. Had no issues with any of this on the A7S. Probably just need to run more tests is all. And sorry for long comments cheers for the feedback!
I’m sure! Haven’t tested but I would recommend staying at 640 or 12800 in SLOG3, since those are the base ISOs, ofc 4000 isn’t thaaaat high so it could work
It depends on what you need! The FX3 is better suited for video shooters- tally lights, dual base iso, multiple record buttons, video focused button layout, great IBIS / AF, small size and variety of codecs Sure the r5 shoots 8K but do you need that? It also doesn’t shoot clog2 whereas the fx3 shoots slog3 Just depends!
there is! this video was before the latest firmware updates. Look into cine ei / cine ei quick / flexible iso. I shoot all in cine ei, I'll be making a video about my settings / process with cine ei
Hey Thomas, thanks for this video - very helpful. Do you still expose purely by eye in low-light situations? For example, a dim interior at an event or wedding. Or would you recommend playing it safe by overexposing in those scenarios to avoid noise?
appreciate it! yeah all by eye- I dont over expose unless I dont have a choice haha I'll try to get the image looking identical to real life and I'm happy For lowlight I do the same, and haven't had issues with noise "How I Expose SLOG3" is coming up in the new handful of videos
Great video! I’m currently looking at getting the FX3 for my podcast setup as well as shooting and editing movies of my motorcycle rides and hiking. You gave a terrific overview of the system! Thank you!
are you shooting your talking head shot on the same settings? or is it a completely diff cam im trying to make talking headshot videos but need help setting wise
@@thomas.kovacik thank you! Also new update on the fx3 removed pp8 & pp7 what do you do you think i should do to compensate? Thanks again for your help!
sorry to bother you but im still trying to figure this out you use cine ei to do what exactly does it replace pp8 and slog3 or what exactly? @@thomas.kovacik
Great job Thomas! Amazing video, literally watched the whole thing and learned so much about my new FX3. This should a tutorial video for all the FX3 owners. Do you mind sharing a list of lenses that you own/use ?
@@thomas.kovacik Correct, was just adding that with S-cinetone the base is 800. I love S-cinetone! I use it 50% of the time, It actually grades really well. 30 years Sports videographer. Keep up the Good Work!
I do a good mix of stuff! Weddings here and there, but my main bread and butter is social media / web commercial work! Check out my website and you’ll see some of those jobs. There’s a bunch of bigger jobs that I can’t share on there though.
@@thomas.kovacik Not sure why, but from watching your video (which I like btw) I started wondering if the settings, specifically when you mentioned not liking slow motion if maybe it was related to the type of content one makes. So I was just wondering. Thank you for your reply btw
That’s the confusing part haha It was displayed everywhere from sony that it’s 640, you can see that on camera with the horizontal bars when you go under the base ISO For SLOG3 The FX6 has 800 and 12800 + The a7siii has 640 and 12800 So it seems like they wanted to update it to match the fx6? It’s so weird haha, bc on the FX3 in flexible ISO it seems like the base is 640 and 12800 But in cine EI it’s 800 and 12800 Wish sony would put a statement out to clear the air haha
They’re from moo (dot) com I forget what model, but they’re little stickers that I put my phone, email and name on it! A lot easier than regular labels and provides more info A lot of the people I work with use the same gear, so I throw these stickers on pretty much everything just in case haha
Hi Thomas, thanks for your review. I'm Claudio from Switzerland/Italy, do you know that I can't find in the menu how to set the button with the white balance lock once it has been set automatically? Would you be so kind as to tell me where I can find it? Thanks.
Hi, thanks for the great informative video on the beloved FX3. I got mine a couple days ago & yesterday got the Sony 16-35mm f4 PZ lens for it. Wow, such an incredibly power & light package, what’s funny is that after selling my Canon R5 to go all in on Sony I’m actually enjoying shooting 12MP stills with the FX3:). Ooh what’s your thoughts on CineEI? It does actually tie into what you were saying about keeping the ISOs at base, which is now 800 & 12,800, not 640:).
Thanks! That 16-35 looks sooo nice! Cine EI is fantastic- I have a couple videos on the list about the update / Cine EI Yup! the new base iso in EI is 800 /12800!
This video is going to do me wonders for my work going forward, I appreciate you taking the time to explain all these things. It really helps the younger filmmaker 🤞🏾🖤
So stoked! So glad this is helpful, thank you for the kind comment!
Hey bro! Lov your videos, completely addicted to your channel since I discovered it ❤ could you please link me or give the specific model of the technique low profile xlr cable at 21:39?
@@thomas.kovacikAlso don’t you use a follow focus?
You posted this 2 years ago, but I just got my FX3 and this video helped! Thanks for sharing your work flow, I'll definitely be using some of these techniques! I had a Canon M5 that was damaged by a laser and this FX3 is my first full frame camera. Can't wait to shoot with!
As a novice shooting an FX3 next week, just wanted to comment to say this content is fantastic and you put a ton of work into this. Thanks dude
appreciate it! glad you found it helpful
Bro. Loving your content.
Thank ya!
Fantastic explanation. The justifications for why you chose your settings was super helpful to understand why or why not I may need to adjust my own. Thank you for your attention to detail
appreciate it! Glad you found it helpful
I have owned the FX3 for over a year , and love it. I record my footage to 2 cards simultaneously. I have switched from S Log3 to S-Cinetone, because it's easier to colour grade.
Because I have impaired vision I have a Portkeys/LEYE viewfinder. It solves my vision problem, and has features like false colour and Zoom .
love it! it's such a great camera!
Oh interesting, I'll have to look into it! having false color is a nice addition forsure!
Great video dude!
Thanks!
This the review I was needing. A real world review. I'll getting 1 in the next 3-5 months. Thx ya for the video.
appreciate it! It's a great camera
Ah that’s a great tip about having one auto and one manual audio track.
It’s super helpful! Sometimes the auto doesn’t get it where I want it, so I’ll adjust track 2 to what I need in that situation
Well done! A little surprised to hear you are having such good success with the FX3 ibis. I've found on mine, it really isnt quite as smooth as I'd expect. I'm not sure if it's just coming from Panasonic, but have been a little unimpressed. Great info for everyone!
What lens are you using?
In particular with the bad IBIS, the Sigma 24-70 2.8. I'm wondering if it's just compensating for the different focal lengths used. @@DavidFaxon
I feel like I should pay this guy. 🤔 Damn, most UA-camrs would make a 20 minute video on each Topic you mentioned. But this is straight Gold, no nonsense straight to the point. I literally saved this in my folder, first time I saved a creators video.
haha appreciate ya!
yeah i struggle with trying to keep things tight, i can chat away forever haha
glad you enjoyed the video!
Awesome video Thomas, going to invest in an FX3 soon so this was clutch to have available. Thank you for all the details, hyped to see what you shoot with it.
Appreciate it Chris! I think you'll love it! Hope all is well
Picking up my fx3 tomorrow. Thanks for explaining all the settings. Can't wait to test them. :) Cheers
love it! Glad this video was helpful
Legend! Thanks for the breakdown. Keep it up.
thank you! glad you enjoyed
Thanks for your sharing Bro
What mic are you using for this video please ? 🫣
Sennheiser mke600!
Cool to hear you dig the MKE600 too, I’ve been considering upgrading to one lately…
It’s worth it! Insane quality, for a solid price too
Great Video, just got this camera for more run and gun work. 1. Do you ever miss having a viewfinder? 2. With No external record monitor, do you shoot in simultaneous Mode in case you ever had a card failure? If I have my record monitor hooked up, I use that as my backup record, If not I use simultaneous mode and record same footage to both cards.
thanks!
Nope I haven't missed the viewfinder, I enjoy the smaller size!
I always dual record- have never used external recording bc I've been happy with the internal codecs and the smaller form factor
@@thomas.kovacik Cool, I don’t order one either.
Just had a shoot today with the FX3! Was thinking of making some updates settings wise! this came just in time! Thanks man, great vid 🙌🎬
So epic! Thank you!
Nice auto focus should be priority guys I have a Sony a7ii and even if am only thing standing in front of the camera it still misses, its ironic as it sounds 😂
haha yeah AF has gotten really good with these newer sony models
This is the answer to every question I had about my FX3 thank you for this 🙏🏽🙏🏽
love to hear that!
Great Content !
You said to put HS and not S? Lots of videos are saying the opposite way
I'm confused haha
I’ve been doing primarily SI lately with HS here and there
S is the most compressed, smallest file size but also runs awful on my M1 Max laptop haha
Best fx3 video on youtube so far
haha I appreciate it!
Dude, I 100% agree on “overexposing is bad on FX3”. I started doing that when I got the camera and found myself just enjoying the final result much more of shots that were correctly exposed or even slightly under exposed
Pretty crazy! I always look back and think, why didn't I just test this in the first place haha. I feel that the majority of people that complain about sony colors, are the ones that are still overexposing, so it's a pretty easy fix! haha
this is a massive help, thank you
stoked! glad it was helpful!
Great video, as an a7s3 user i learned a lot! Thanks for sharing
thank ya! glad you found it helpful
can you burn in your LUT into the slog3 directly on FX3 so you don't have to do it later? ideally for faster workflow?
with the new firmware v2 yes you can! I tend to just leave it normal bc adding a lut doesn't take much time for my workflow. But I can forsure see this being nice for some
So I know you said you keep the autofocus on zone when shooting. Do you change any of the other settings? Like shift sensitivity and transition speed for example. Great content!
Yeah I try to have it neutral or more over to the slower setting, I forget exactly what I have haha. But I want the transition to be slow, so it's not snapping all over the place, and having the object sensitivity to be normal / slow
A big thank you for this usefull video. I searched in all your gear options but i didn't find the model of your light/short xlr cable you present in the video. Where can i find one please ?
Of course! It’s a cable techniques low profile cable! Expensive for what it is, but it’s the best haha
Bizarrely in the HS Codec in PAL you can’t shoot 25fps
Hey Thomas thanks for the great review! I got my FX3 like 2 weeks ago. I figured out that in 50p I can choose active or standard. Off, Auto and manual. In 100p Active isnt available. Okay. But: If I switch between Standard or off in 100p. Or is between standard and off no crop? Like "another stabillisation happening? Thank you for your answer
appreciate it!
Hmmm, Not sure what's going on with the 100p and active
Standard is just a normal IBIS that doesn't affect the crop as far as I know
Active crops in about 10% I believe
I think you'll be good with standard stabilization for that one
Omg you are talking too fast and not explaining where to find the settings lol😂
Haha you can find the settings! I’m telling you what I’m using + why
@@thomas.kovacikI found the pacing to be perfect!!
Thank you for providing this excellent video, as a beginner is always overwhelmed when it comes to the different settings in the camera, but this video is the best thing I've seen for the FX3. Thanks again
course! glad you found value, happy shooting!
Love the video! learned very much. just picked up my fx3 yesterday:) How do you manage to put on the nd filter with the lens cap thingy attached?!
Hi Thomas, thanks for your video, I just subscribed, as I'm a long term photographer but newbie to video, keen to learn. I recently bought an FX3 and so far have just been experimented with S-Cinetone, albeit I understand that S-log 3 is the way to go for best dynamic range. As a start l figure that
I could do worse than borrow from your learning and adopt your settings. So a little help and clarity, from your experience would be appreciated.
My first question relates to base ISO. I'm confused. I see several commentators on YT reference a dual base ISO of 800 & 12800 (+4 stops higher). Same options too for Cine-EI. But you reference ISO 640 as the base ISO as do one or two others as well?? OK it's only 1/3 stop, but which is it 640 or 800?
My second query (causing me great confusion) relates to frame rate options, which is further complcated by regional TV standard (NTSC or PAL) selected and file formats set on FX3. I'd really appreciate help and clarity with this....
The FX3 can be set to either NTSC or PAL - it seems to switch off and do a 'reboot' when switching or re-initialising. These standards seem incompatible and cause subsequent FPS settings limitations!!? I'm in UK (PAL region, rather than NTSC). For UK should I be using PAL or NTSC or doesn't it matter? Apart from subsequent FPS limitations available on FX3 - which is really confusing me.
I read that 24 FPS is the 'Cinematic' or gold standard and 30 is better for 'realism and/or action'. Higher rates (eg 60 or 120) yield slow-motion when set/editing in a 24 FPS timeline (eg in DaVinci Resolve). I further understand that although one can capture/shoot in different frame rates that the edited output can only be a single rate eg one of 24, 25, 30, 60 etc but that typically 24 is chosen for a more 'cinematic look, albeit 30 is more common for TV/video and 25 for UK, Europe, Australia etc. Conceptually that all, just about, makes sense. But then FX3 options get closed down .....
On FX3, if NTSC is initialised then highly compressed H.265 used via file setting XAVC HS 4K (your preferred recording format) then frame rate options are 24, 60 & 120 FPS (rounded). Not 30? If changing file format to highest quality/size then it's 24, 30 or 60 FPS not 120!? This is probably a function of data rate throughput that can be handled by camera's processor and card data bandwidth (maximised on CF Express or V90 SD cards, but not an optionon with V30/V60 SD cards). If changing file format to basic (less data throughput) ie XAVC S 4K, then 24, 30, 60 & 120 FPS can be set.
But FPS options and limitations get even more odd/confusing if initialising in European PAL standard! I'm told over here (ie in UK) that typically one works in a 25 FPS timeline output, albeit if shooting on most smartphones (eg as a second cam) these mostly will only record at 30 FPS (leading to jerky dropped frame issues when outputting at 25 FPS). On FX3 (with PAL) if using your preferred H.265 compressed quality then frame rates available are just 50 or 100 FPS (no 25 option). Switching to the highest quality codek (big files) XAVC S-I 4K (aka all intra) then one can pick just 50 & 100 FPS (again no 25). But if dropping quality to the XAVC S 4K codek file recording format, then one can pick 25, 50 or 100 FPS to record. I broadly appreciate the FPS math ie in a 25 FPS output then recorded footage at 50 FPS plays at half speed and 100 FPS plays at a quarter 'real times' speed. Whilst in NTSC regions, the 24 FPS standard output can handle 30, 60 and 120 recorded FPS (with no dropped frames, as all share a math factor of 6). Thus in a 24 FPS output that 30 FPS recording plays at 4/5 or 80% of perceived 'normal rate, 60 FPS at 40% and 120 FPS at 1/5 or 20% 'normal speed.
Grabbing zve1 and some primes !
So sick!
Hi Thomas, thanks for giving me a different perspective than most YT reviews that had pretty much convinced me that I needed to rig out my FX3 extensively. I now have a lot of rig options but as a newbie I really need to get out and practice, learn, practice some more. So much to learn, it all takes time, but I know getting out, practicing is the only real way to progress.
I subscribed and will now make a point of looking to find my ideal set-ups for minimalist (hobby / travel) as well as medium and maximalist rigs.
Could be the best "FX3" review and settings video out there. Real world, real honest if you ask me. I suppose most is applicable to the FX30? Do you edit the videos out of this camera on you speced out Mac Mini?
appreciate it!
yep it should be pretty 1:1 for most of the sony mirrorless line!
I have a m1 max 16" MacBook Pro now, 32gb ram, 24core, 1tb ssd. But I was working off of the Mac mini for a while! Both crush
Is that Brady??
How do I set up continuous autofocus while recording video so its always autofocusing on the Centrepoint?
Really appreciate all this information!
Stoked!
Nice video, thank you! Big question, from all my research, active ibis does not work with third party lenses (sigma). There’s a couple videos demonstrating this and it looks like night and day compared to Sony glass. It still, however, crops in.
I already watched your lens video and was about to get the sigma, but then stumbled on this lack of active ibis issue. What’s your take on it, because in this video you said you sometimes use active. Thanks!
Love ❤️ you. The best video about FX3 ever… so much knowledge and practical tips explained naturally and with passion!
Thanks 🙏 a lot, wish you growing success!!!🎉
So rad to hear that! Much love
Thanks for the kind words, glad you enjoyed it!
Isn’t the S the best of both worlds of the HS and S-I?
Hey Thomas… thanks for the video. Super helpful! 👍🏽
Thank you! Glad you found it helpful!
nice video! thank you!!
appreciate it!
Incredibly in-depth, honest and simple to understand. Thank you for making this video, subscription earned!
Thanks! Appreciate the kind words
hwy quick question have you ever had any issues in editing in slow motion on the fx3 since the software update 3.0? i havent been able to edit on slow mo no matter what i do on the settings can the lens be part of that issue? i have a GM sony e mount 14mm 1.4 FE
I barely could play 4k 120fps clips on my computer
No issues! What computer are you on? Anything M1 and above from apple will be plenty
Can you lock the SS and ISO on the A7siii? I can Lock the AWB but dont see an option to lock anything else.
If the a7siii has the PASM mode you should be able to! You may have to customize the shortcuts for Shutter / ISO
I watched a video where you mention building your own rec 709 ? Im curious how you got your gamma assist to use the custom lut instead of the Sony Rec 709. Thank you in advance !
SUBBED
haha thanks!
Base ISO for Slog3 is 800* not 640 😊
With the new updates yes! Back then it was 640
@@thomas.kovacik ahhh right! My bad! Thank you for the correction :D
@railpressureflip course! I need to make an updated video on this too haha
Simply awesome presentation. Succinct, informative and condensed. Just subscribed. More power to you.
Appreciate it! Thank you for the kind words
Do you need an external mic connected to get Audio? Sorry if it's a basic question but I know the FX6 doesn't have an in built mic so was wondering if the FX3 has one. I don't like the idea of another accessory and just wanted to use the inbuilt one if it's there. I want to take it on my travels and wanted a slim downed cinema camera I can take.
No worries! The camera has a built in scratch mic, but it’s not as nice as a shotgun / on camera mic of course
I use the Sony B10 for travel- it connects digitally through the hot shoe so no cables or batteries to worry about
No need to +2 exposure since all sony cameras from a7siii and forward. Older cameras need to be overexposed in slog3. There is even a whitepaper from sony explaining.
yep! i do the same
Hey Thomas! Great Video but I didn't really get how u expose it correctly if ur ISO is "fixed" ur Shutter Speed is fixed and u want to adjust the aperture to ur taste for Shot. Are u working with ND filters all the way? like using 640 if its too bright u use ND filter if its to dark u go with 12800 and use ND? Maybe a silly question but Im just diving into everything :)
hey thanks!
Yeah so ill go deeper into that in another video, but essentially you just adjust aperture for taste / to bring down exposure a tiny bit. I'm solely using NDs. I always use 640 no matter what, then in low light ill go with 12800 and add ND just bc its so sensitive. With 640 ill still use a 3 and 6 stop during the day!
@@thomas.kovacik ahh ok got it! thanks! :)
Nice video. A ton of info - I will have to rewatch each section multiple times for reference
appreciate it! glad you enjoyed
Wow! What an excellent overview. Pretty much how I have come to shoot with it.
Thanks for the 4 channel audio tip. Nice.
Flexible exposure mode is great when you finally work it out isn’t it!? Went down the same path as you!
I want to shoot XAVC-HS (currently shoot S). Do you genuine have no editing issues with the H.265 on an M1 Mac? I am still high spec Mac Mini Intel, but will upgrade. Which did you plump for?
Thank you!
thank you so much! Yeah I was shocked when I found out about it! Def makes me forget about it not having shutter angle haha
No issues at all on a m1 16gb ram Mac mini! On intel, you'll have issues but you can run low res proxies so you can still save space on your drives
@@thomas.kovacik Thank you!
this video was so helpful. Question, can these settings be used on the sonya7 iv?
Thank you! Yeah you should be able to! If there’s some settings that don’t fit you could take those same principles and adapt it to your cam
Total noob question, but when you mention "stops" are you referring to ISO stops? Or aperture stops?
mostly referring to the Multi Metering numbers I think, some people say to expose at +1.7-+2 but I've found the opposite, video coming soon on that
Hey Thomas, thank you very much for this very informative video. Even though I have zero knowledge in this field but you were very helpful in covering most of the necessary details.
I currently live in China and I am about to buy the FX3 to shoot (diamonds) macro, any recommendations for lenses, setups etc? Since I need to deliver a very natural color video of my products with the accurate color and dimensions.
Thanks again and keep it up with the great work.
Hey! Thank you!
Epic, the FX3 is an incredible camera! I highly recommend using the sigma 24-70. It's a great lens for a great deal
I recommend getting fixed ND filters, I use a 3 and 6 stop, I use 2x 256gb cards, I never fill them up lol so I'm sure you'd be fine with 128gb
I use 3 sony batteries too, and outside of that, rigging is pretty personal! I plan on making a video going deep into the multiple ways I rig out this camera!
@@thomas.kovacik Just seeing your reply, literally 2 days after buying the FX3, I got the Sigma 24-70 and the Sony 90 Macro G OSS, as well as 2x160GB cards.
Will get those ND filters by tomorrow for sure!
I went out the past 2 days and shot some very short videos. Learning Chinese definitely seems easier than all this but I guess I will be able to overcome these new little challenges with time.
The good thing about living in China is that there are a couple of enormous camera markets, the drawback is that I barely know what lenses or accessories I should go after. Haven't found any cool vintage lenses yet. Any tips on this matter?
Thanks Thomas!
Dude I go through the exact same thing. I like it minimal the most. But I mostly use my hybrid configuration for the sound and top handle. I run my monitor set up the least.
Love it! yeah having that top handle with audio is so dang convenient, makes this camera so versatile
@@thomas.kovacik ..but I love how small and light it is with a minimal set up 😫 I could go back and forth all day. But I also have way less anxiety when I have a cage around it 😫
Haha I feel that! My next video may help out! I talk all about the different ways I rig my fx3 as well as when & why
Subscribed! Man, loving your straightforward delivery and explanations. Also I assume once you upgraded to firmware 2.0 you are just on Flexible ISO now? As opposed to the Cine EI mode?
appreciate it!
I'm currently using cine ei!
I just recorded a video about my last 2 months with the new firmware update, so I should have that out in a week or so haha
@@thomas.kovacik Gotcha, I may have to try it and run some tests, I just notice noise (I'm pixel peeping for sure) in a lot of my shots at BOTH base ISOs in Flexible ISO. So maybe I've got to bite the bullet and try Cine EI
@@youngerbrotherpictures hmm that's odd- how are you exposing? The image should be the same regardless of what setting, as flexible, cine ei, and cine ei quick are basically just different styles to dial in exposure
With cine ei, treat it like flexible iso / the old way
These are the "neutral settings"
ISO 800 / EI 800
ISO 12800 / EI 12800
I always stick to this, I dont have a reason to adjust my EI since I'm not trying to overexpose everything to bring down in post
@@thomas.kovacik Usually spot metering for what I want to expose for and keeping that area at 1.3 - 1.7. For interviews I use a gray card with the zebras set per Gerald Undone's tutorial on Slog3. On ISO 640 it looks perfectly fine, but there has been a shot or 2 even at 640 that (subconsciously) I wonder if I'm seeing noise. That said on 12,800 I see noise and I even see it in the light areas, which now that I'm thinking about it I wonder if I've been OVER-exposing on these. Had no issues with any of this on the A7S. Probably just need to run more tests is all. And sorry for long comments cheers for the feedback!
do you think if you go up to 4000iso its still VERY usable.....???
I’m sure! Haven’t tested but I would recommend staying at 640 or 12800 in SLOG3, since those are the base ISOs, ofc 4000 isn’t thaaaat high so it could work
Solid video! Ordering my FX3 next week.
yew! you'll be so stoked on it
Will this beat the canon r5 because it says cinema camera but r5 shoots 8k
It depends on what you need! The FX3 is better suited for video shooters- tally lights, dual base iso, multiple record buttons, video focused button layout, great IBIS / AF, small size and variety of codecs
Sure the r5 shoots 8K but do you need that? It also doesn’t shoot clog2 whereas the fx3 shoots slog3
Just depends!
Really appreciate all of this info, thank you
Yew! Thank you!
Great video but as a relatively new owner of the fx3 , there is no slog 3 , what is your work around for this , thanks 👍
there is! this video was before the latest firmware updates. Look into cine ei / cine ei quick / flexible iso. I shoot all in cine ei, I'll be making a video about my settings / process with cine ei
@@thomas.kovacikthanks and I can’t wait ..
great
Hey Thomas, thanks for this video - very helpful. Do you still expose purely by eye in low-light situations? For example, a dim interior at an event or wedding. Or would you recommend playing it safe by overexposing in those scenarios to avoid noise?
appreciate it! yeah all by eye- I dont over expose unless I dont have a choice haha
I'll try to get the image looking identical to real life and I'm happy
For lowlight I do the same, and haven't had issues with noise
"How I Expose SLOG3" is coming up in the new handful of videos
hey man could you share the brand of your that thin xlr cable please ? Thank you
Found it , Thank you.
Cable techniques!
Best fx3 video, saved,liked , and subbed.
appreciate it! glad you found it helpful
isnt the native iso 800 and 12800 though? But this video was a BIG help. Thank you
Back then it was 640, then they did the firmware update and it changed to 800 haha
@@thomas.kovacik snap. I’m seeing how long ago this was. So sorry sir
@@CJ-Adventures hah all good! I still need to make an updated version of this
For gyro, need to crank shutter 4x.
That’s odd haha, why’s that!
@@thomas.kovacikI tried to share a video that better explains.. not sure if it was auto blocked.
Bookmarking this MF! Thanx!
haha epic!
who can tel he docent ike the small screen lol
huh haha, im actually a fan of it
Great video! I’m currently looking at getting the FX3 for my podcast setup as well as shooting and editing movies of my motorcycle rides and hiking. You gave a terrific overview of the system! Thank you!
Thank ya! Heck yeah it’s a great camera
I can’t find PP8 on my FX3
That changed with the new update- shoot in cine ei now!
GH7 + XLR2 or FX3?
I’d rather have the fx3 for many reasons haha
are you shooting your talking head shot on the same settings? or is it a completely diff cam im trying to make talking headshot videos but need help setting wise
Same camera and settings! Always on my fx3
@@thomas.kovacik thank you! Also new update on the fx3 removed pp8 & pp7 what do you do you think i should do to compensate? Thanks again for your help!
@adamreteguiz7798 I just use cine ei!
sorry to bother you but im still trying to figure this out you use cine ei to do what exactly does it replace pp8 and slog3 or what exactly?
@@thomas.kovacik
also doesnt cine ei overexpose? do you just readjust in post?
@@thomas.kovacik
Great job Thomas! Amazing video, literally watched the whole thing and learned so much about my new FX3. This should a tutorial video for all the FX3 owners. Do you mind sharing a list of lenses that you own/use ?
Really appreciate it!
Sigma 24-70 E, Sony 20 1.8
Contax Zeiss: 25 2.8, 28 2.8, 35 2.8, 50 1.4, 85 2.8, 35-70 3.4
Just remember, when shooting S-cinetone the Base ISO 800
That’s for slog3 with new firmware
Used to be 640 / 12800 pre v2 firmware
Cinetone is 100 / 2000
@@thomas.kovacik Correct, was just adding that with S-cinetone the base is 800. I love S-cinetone! I use it 50% of the time, It actually grades really well. 30 years Sports videographer. Keep up the Good Work!
By the way, I really enjoyed the video!!
What type of content do you shoot?
I do a good mix of stuff! Weddings here and there, but my main bread and butter is social media / web commercial work! Check out my website and you’ll see some of those jobs.
There’s a bunch of bigger jobs that I can’t share on there though.
@@thomas.kovacik Not sure why, but from watching your video (which I like btw) I started wondering if the settings, specifically when you mentioned not liking slow motion if maybe it was related to the type of content one makes. So I was just wondering. Thank you for your reply btw
Definitely! Yeah since then I’ve added in some 30 and barely shot 60, but it all depends on the project!
Really appreciate this rundown on the camera. Ended up watching it straight through. Thanks dude.
Really appreciate it, glad you enjoyed!
what kind of XLR connection cable do you use with the MKE 600? It looks a little different than normal XLR cables
I use the cable techniques slim XLR cable! you can find em on BH- they're very much worth it!
@@thomas.kovacik thanks! I'm literally copying your rig with my new fx3 haha
Haha love it! Well you’re in luck- releasing a “how i rig my fx3” video soon
@@thomas.kovacik looking forward!
@@thomas.kovacik Could I also ask what you use to make space for the Sennheiser width in the fx3 mic handle? Is that tape?
S is for shutter priority
Yeah haha I made a note in the vid for that 😅
Base iso is 800 not 640
With the new firmware yep! Back then it was 640
@@thomas.kovacik oh really. I thought it always 800. Thanks for the info
That’s the confusing part haha
It was displayed everywhere from sony that it’s 640, you can see that on camera with the horizontal bars when you go under the base ISO
For SLOG3
The FX6 has 800 and 12800
+
The a7siii has 640 and 12800
So it seems like they wanted to update it to match the fx6? It’s so weird haha, bc on the FX3 in flexible ISO it seems like the base is 640 and 12800
But in cine EI it’s 800 and 12800
Wish sony would put a statement out to clear the air haha
Anyone else think he'd cracked his sensor, ie that thumbnail
Haha may have to update the thumbnail, it’s my grid on my soft box hahah
talk to me about those custom stickers for ur cam?
They’re from moo (dot) com
I forget what model, but they’re little stickers that I put my phone, email and name on it! A lot easier than regular labels and provides more info
A lot of the people I work with use the same gear, so I throw these stickers on pretty much everything just in case haha
Hi Thomas, thanks for your review. I'm Claudio from Switzerland/Italy, do you know that I can't find in the menu how to set the button with the white balance lock once it has been set automatically? Would you be so kind as to tell me where I can find it? Thanks.
hey! thank you,
you'll need to go into your custom button menu (yellow I think) and add AWB Lock to a button
@@thomas.kovacik thanks Thomas, works, I set the front button for this. AWB + lock is a perfect combo!
great! yeah it definitely makes it more consistent, so you dont have your AWB change mid shot!
Thank you so much!
fx3 50 1.2 gm is a BEAST setup.
Love it! Haven’t been able to shoot with GM primes yet!
Hi, thanks for the great informative video on the beloved FX3. I got mine a couple days ago & yesterday got the Sony 16-35mm f4 PZ lens for it. Wow, such an incredibly power & light package, what’s funny is that after selling my Canon R5 to go all in on Sony I’m actually enjoying shooting 12MP stills with the FX3:). Ooh what’s your thoughts on CineEI? It does actually tie into what you were saying about keeping the ISOs at base, which is now 800 & 12,800, not 640:).
Thanks!
That 16-35 looks sooo nice!
Cine EI is fantastic- I have a couple videos on the list about the update / Cine EI
Yup! the new base iso in EI is 800 /12800!
@@thomas.kovacik It sure is:). Thanks for the reply & great I’ll check out those videos.
@@thomas.kovacik Have you uploaded some videos on Cine EI or are they in the pipeline:)? I don't seem to be able to find any, many thanks.
@@thefilmbrothers20 not yet! it's in the pipeline!
@@thomas.kovacik Looking forward to it:)
tnx
That colors though :D
Learn to annunciate… You start out your video by saying I shoot everything in… And then you just mumble what the codec is.
take it easy lol
i just listened back and don’t see an issue?
I’m watching this now in 2024, I just wanted to say I appreciate you. Full stop! 🐐🤌❤️
amazing! thank you for the kind words
This video is really Helpful. 😀