Sony is returning for the sixth time to EnergaCamerimage 2024 in Poland with plans to launch and show forthcoming updates to VENICE 2, FX6 and other Cinema Line cameras.
Sony will be returning for the sixth time as the main official industrial sponsor to EnergaCamerimage 2024 in Poland, to be held 16 – 23 November, with plans to launch and show several forthcoming updates to its Cinema Line cameras.
VENICE 2 Version 4.0
The Version 4.0 firmware update of the VENICE 2 camera will be available from August 2025, and will add support of the EL Zone System, created by Ed Lachman, ASC who is receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award this year at EnergaCamerimage.
The EL Zone System is an exposure mapping tool developed to standardise and simplify the measurement of exposure across all camera manufacturers and post facilities. It allows cinematographers in the field to measure the values of light in stops by distinguishing contrast and exposure instead of IRE values, like standard false colour tools. EL Zone System serves as an addition to the existing tools in VENICE 2.
Version 4.0 will also display Frame lines in different colours, intended to make it easier to shoot images for different purposes or formats.
Sony says it will continue to upgrade and evolve the VENICE camera over the coming years. Version 5.0 will be made available in 2026 and Version 6.0 in 2027.
ILME-FX6 Version 6.0
The next upgrade to the Sony ILME-FX6 will come in February 2026 with a new, simpler BIG6-style UI. Filmmakers can use the display to check and adjust key items to ensure consistency of operation from one camera to another, as can be done on CineAlta cameras like VENICE or BURANO.
A black frame will also be added to the out monitor to highlight the On-Screen Display (OSD) information more clearly.
The FX6 now supports SDI RAW output for Blackmagic RAW recording with the Blackmagic Design Video Assist recorder, subject to the timing of Blackmagic’s associated updated. The same will apply to the FX9 with the purchase of an optional extension unit XDCA-FX9.
FX3 Version 7.0 and FX30 Version 6.0
Features of the FX3 Version 7.0 and FX30 Version 6.0 will also feature updates from September 2025 with the intention of aligning the UX and operational use for users across the whole Cinema Line. Within the range, the FX3 is a full-frame ultra compact, and the FX39 is a compact APS-C Super 35mm format camera.
The same new BIG6 UI that will be added to the FX6, will appear on these cameras as well. Anamorphic de-squeeze 1.5x will also be available in response to the increasing use of anamorphic lenses for cinema, and to give users more options for looks and style.
A new HDMI RAW output capability will now be possible for Blackmagic RAW recording with Blackmagic Design's Video Assist recorders.
Finally, Version 2.0 of BURANO, expected for release in March 2025 release, will be shown at Camerimage for the first time. BURANO is a lightweight, compact full-frame 8K cinema camera specially designed for use by single-camera operators and small crews in versatile applications. Version 2.0 includes new recording formats, new 1.8x de-squeeze, and monitoring improvements.
Learning about Sony at EnergaCAMERIMAGE 2024
Sony will also host three seminars by, about and for filmmakers.
Tuesday, 19 November
In Conversation: Camerimage 2024 Nominated Cinematographers on shooting their latest projects
A discussion with Cinematographers Mikhail Krichman, Veronika Tyron and Rachel Clark will demonstrate how they used Sony cameras to help them achieve their visions.
Wednesday, 20 November
Illuminating Stories: A Sony Masterclass with Ed Lachman and Marko Massinger
Cinematographers Ed Lachman, ASC and Mark Massinger will give a seminar on the art of lighting.
Thursday, 21 November
Building a Sustainable Industry – creating a safe working environment and developing future talent.
Andra Milsome (Mark Milsome Foundation), Director of Photography Fabian Wagner, ASC,BSC (First Steps Cinematography) and Irena Gruca-Rozbicka (Crew United) talk about challenges crew members face as they pursue their careers.
All of Sony’s CineAlta digital cinema cameras will be on display including the VENICE 2, VENICE Extension System 2 and BURANO. Sony will also exhibit its line-up of lenses and professional monitors. Attendees will have hands-on opportunities with Sony's equipment and on-set and post-production workflows.
The following films have been shot on Sony for EnergaCamerimage 2024
Main Competition
The Fire Inside - Cinematographer: Rina Yang
Emilia Perez – Cinematographer: Paul Guilhaume
Vermiglio, the Mountain Bride – Cinematographer: Mikhail Krichman
Polish Film Competition
White Courage (Biala Odwaga) – Cinematographer: Marcin Koszalka
Blackbird (Kos) – Cinematographer: Piotr Sobocinski Jr.
Kulej. Dwie strony medalu – Cinematographer: Marian Prokop
TV Series Pilot Competition
Shogun – Cinematographer: Christopher Ross
Sugar – Cinematographer : Cesar Charlone
