Sony announces today the latest addition to its Cinema Line, the ILME-FR7, an E-mount interchangeable lens camera with a full-frame image sensor and built-in pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) functionality. The Sony FR7 features a back-illuminated 35mm full-frame CMOS image sensor Exmor R with approximately 10.3 effective megapixels and wide 15+ stop latitude in a pan tilt zoom (PTZ) camera for the first time. In addition to wide dynamic range, low noise, and cinematic full frame bokeh, this amazing sensor also delivers high sensitivity that allows ISO to be expanded up to 409600 when shooting in low light.
With a new dedicated web application, pan, tilt, zoom, focus, record, playback, and all camera settings can be intuitively controlled from a tablet or computer web browser. Multiple people can monitor FR7 footage remotely at the same time. Sony ILME-FR7 camera is compatible with Sony’s RM-IP500 remote controller for multi-camera production, expanding creative potential while reducing the need for dedicated staff in production studios and other shooting situations. A single RM-IP500 unit can remotely control up to 100 PTZ cameras and provide precious joystick-controlled pan, tilt, and zoom operation.
The FR7 features Sony’s E-mount and can mount a wide range of E-mount lenses, including the G Master series with stunning resolution and bokeh effect. A choice of focal lengths ranging from 12 mm to 1200 mm gives users comprehensive creative control. A number of preset scene files are included including S-Cinetone for natural mid-tones that are essential to healthy-looking skin colour, plus soft colours and gorgeous highlights. Shooting in up to 4K 120p slow-motion is possible, again creating that emotional possibility offered by a cinematic look. The Sensitivity setting allows ISO to be expanded up to 409600 when shooting in low light. A 15+ stop latitude allows smooth highlights and low noise levels.
The FR7 can memorize up to 100 camera position presets. The built-in web application and optional RM-IP500 remote controller allow up to 100 camera position presets to be recalled. Presets include camera direction, zoom, and focus, and can be recalled at the touch of a button. Fast Hybrid AF and pan/tilt/zoom functionalities combine to focus on static or fast-moving subjects precisely and smoothly over a wide area, to avoid blurred images, even when a shallow depth of field is used. Pan and tilt speed can be continuously varied from 0.02 degrees per second to 60 degrees per second, supporting a wide range of stable and smooth camera movements. The pan angle range is from -170° to +170°, and the tilt angle range is from -30° to +195°.
The integrated BIONZ XR engine realizes detection performance for pinpoint eye focus even when subjects are looking at steep angles, allowing the operator to concentrate on composing the best shot. Touch Focus can be used to initiate focusing with Real-time Tracking on the desired subject when using the FR7’s web application, with Real-time Eye AF if an eye is detected. The built-in electronic variable ND filter allows seamless ND adjustment. An Auto ND function keeps exposure constant by automatically adjusting the ND filter to match changing light. Remote control is also possible, allowing exposure control at a distance from the camera.
A rare feature in a PTZ camera, the FR7 also features dual media slots that support CFexpress Type A and SDXC memory cards. The ability to record high-quality XAVC-I footage with metadata makes the FR7 an excellent choice for a wide variety of video production applications. CFexpress Type A cards are well suited to high bitrate 4K movie production, with high-speed write capability that ensures stable recording of high volume, high frame rate data. Simultaneous recording, relay recording, interval recording, and proxy recording are also supported.The SDI output can deliver a 16-bit RAW signal to a compatible external recorder.
The Timecode IN connector receives timecode for synchronization with an external device, while the GENLOCK receives synchronization signals in multi camera setups .Additionally, red/green tally lights are provided on the camera’s side panels, allowing performers and staff to easily identify the on-air and preview cameras in multi camera setups in studio or on location. The FR7 will be showcased for the first time on Sony’s booth at IBC 2022 in Amsterdam from September 9th to 12th.
