The Sony FX2 has been quite a controversial release. Armando Ferreira confronted a Sony manager about some of the quirks and here is a recap of his answers:
Purpose and Audience of the FX2
- Main Focus: It’s a cinema-first camera designed with hybrid capability—high-quality video and usable photography.
- Target Audience: Entry-level filmmakers and hybrid shooters who want a cinematic camera without giving up stills.
- The FX2 fills a specific market gap between FX30 and FX3, meant to be a “starting point” for future filmmakers.
Clarifications on the Camera’s Positioning
- FX30 → FX3 → FX6 → Venice is a clear path; FX2 fits just between FX30 and FX3 with a very small incremental gap.
- The confusion stems from the naming convention (FX2) and rumor-driven expectations, especially about price.
Sensor and Feature Choices
- FX2 uses the A7 IV sensor for:
- Higher resolution photos than FX3.
- Better match to Super 35mm anamorphic workflows (still common in cinema).
- More balanced hybrid performance.
- Aimed to be a crash cam or B-cam to the Venice/Burano with good dynamic range.
Photo Capabilities
- Unlike FX30, FX2 supports true photo modes (with flash, full res, etc.).
- Meant for users who want to shoot both photo and video on the same body—especially useful for solo shooters or small teams.
EVF Design Choices
- The built-in EVF is non-removable by design to support:
- Simpler use in bright environments.
- Hybrid use for still photography.
- While some users wanted it to be detachable to save space or cost, Sony prioritized ease-of-use for new filmmakers.
- FX3 and FX30 may not get EVFs, but the user suggested it could be a future idea.
Menu System & Firmware
- The FX2 uses Sony’s Big 6 menu system from Venice/Burano.
- Goal: unify the UI/UX across all FX-line cameras.
- FX3, FX30, and FX6 will get the Big 6 menu via firmware update in summer 2025.
Anamorphic & Open Gate
- FX2 currently supports 1.3x and 2.0x anamorphic desqueeze.
- 1.5x support is coming in a firmware update.
- User-requested feature: ability to input custom desqueeze ratios like 1.6x or 1.8x.
- Open gate support: Sony is aware of demand (especially for social media framing and anamorphic), but implementation is unclear. Jay hints it’s possible but unconfirmed.
Pricing and Rumor Clarification
- The rumored $3500 price created disappointment.
- Actual launch price is lower, and Sony believes it’s very competitive for the features provided.
- Like the FX3, FX2 is expected to hold its value over time—important for professionals.
Future Outlook
- Sony wants to unify the FX line’s menu and ecosystem, reduce gaps in usability, and support users transitioning between different models.
- The FX2 is not a replacement for any model, but an additional option tailored to a specific kind of user.
Sony FX2 at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, Fotokoch, FotoErhardt, Calumet, WexUK