Sony PXW-FS7M2K

Expanding on the original FS7, Sony’s PXW-FS7M2 XDCAM Super 35 Camera System is a flexible 4K camera system. Designed as a camera that is at home on productions as diverse as “Cinéma Vérité”-style documentaries, reality TV, commercial, and corporate applications It features a Super 35mm sized sensor that allows you to capture images with cinematic depth of field. The camera incorporates a stronger locking E-mount that is fully compatible with E-Mount lenses, and supports all electronic connections. The locking mount reduces lens play, and allows you to use most 35mm lenses including PL, EF, Leica, and Nikon via optional adapters. This stronger E-mount is ideal for using heavier-long cine-zooms without the need for additional lens support.

Just behind the lens mount sits an electronic variable ND system that provides a clear filter and 3 user definable presets. The variable ND can be adjusted to provide between 2 and 7 stops of ND. The camera can capture footage to optional on-board XQD media cards in either DCI 4K (4096 x 2160) or UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at up to 59.94 fps or HD at up to 180 fps.

The camera records in your choice of XAVC-I, XAVC-L, or MPEG-2. However, MPEG-2 recording does not support the high data rates the camera can generate when shooting in UHD, and is limited to recording HD video only. The camera incorporates Dual XQD media card slots that support simultaneous or relay recording. An ergonomically designed handgrip provides control of many of the camera’s functions and features an adjustable length support arm.

With a wide focal-length range and a constant f/4 aperture in a compact form factor, the Sony E PZ 18-110mm f/4 G OSS Lens offers videographers and cinematographers a versatile lens choice for lightweight operations. While the lens may seem small, it has professional features to back it up. The 18-110m focal-length range covers moderately wide to narrow angles-of-view. Sony’s built-in Smooth Motion Optics leverage the internal mechanics of the lens to minimize focus breathing, focus shifting, and other anomalies that would otherwise be noticeable when adjusting the lens during recording.

The body of the lens sports separate focus, zoom, and iris rings for complete manual control. Just pull the focus ring back and full-time manual focus is engaged. The focus ring itself has built-in cinema-standard gearing for follow-focus compatibility. Zoom functionality can be operated both manually and electronically. The zoom ring is connected to the lens mechanically, so crash-zooms can be achieved without lag. Iris operation can be done automatically, or by rotating the iris ring. By disengaging the iris click switch, manual iris adjustments can be made smoothly.

For smaller, less robust cameras, a quick-release tripod foot is included. The foot secures towards the rear of the lens for tripod use. Alternatively, a conventional lens support can be attached near front of the lens for compatibility with rod-based lens supports. The filter thread will accept 95mm-diameter round filters and the included lens cap. A lens hood is also included for minimizing flare. The hood’s shuttered design can be closed when the camera is not in use.