Sony Unveils Latest Cinema Line Innovations at EnergaCAMERIMAGE 2024

Sony is excited to return for the sixth consecutive year as the main official industrial sponsor of EnergaCamerimage 2024, reaffirming its commitment to the cinematography industry with cutting-edge technologies and a focus on supporting cinematographers globally. As the industry faces unprecedented changes and demands, Sony’s involvement at EnergaCamerimage provides a critical opportunity to connect with DoPs, assistant cameras, students, and other film professionals, facilitating an open exchange of ideas and industry support.

“Sony has been present at EnergaCamerimage for the last 20 years, and we are delighted to be supporting the industry once again at this key event in the calendar for cinematographers”, said Sebastian Leske, Head of Business Development, Cinema, Sony Europe. He emphasized the importance of the event as a platform for Sony to assist industry professionals as they navigate these evolving times.

Sony will showcase exciting updates to its Cinema Line, with a series of firmware upgrades for several key cameras:

VENICE 2 Version 4.0

Available in August 2025, the popular VENICE 2 camera will receive Version 4.0 firmware, bringing new capabilities that include support for the EL Zone System™, designed by Ed Lachman, ASC, a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient at this year’s event. The EL Zone System™ allows operators to display exposure values in stops, making exposure adjustments more intuitive. Additional upgrades include a new frame line color display for versatile framing. Version 5.0 and Version 6.0 firmware are planned for 2026 and 2027 respectively, promising long-term support and ongoing improvements for VENICE 2 users.

FX6 Version 6.0

Expected in February 2026, FX6 Version 6.0 will introduce a streamlined “BIG6” UI, simplifying the interface to match the CineAlta camera experience, as well as enhanced on-screen display (OSD) with a black frame for improved visibility of key settings. The FX6 and FX9 cameras will also support SDI RAW output for Blackmagic RAW recording via Blackmagic Design’s Video Assist recorder.

FX3 Version 7.0 and FX30 Version 6.0

Scheduled for release in September 2025, these upgrades will harmonize the user experience across the Cinema Line. Key enhancements include the BIG6 UI, a 1.5x anamorphic de-squeeze for flexibility with anamorphic lenses, and HDMI RAW output for Blackmagic RAW recording.

BURANO Version 2.0

BURANO’s next firmware update, Version 2.0, is set for March 2025, and will be previewed at EnergaCamerimage. BURANO will feature new recording formats, a 1.8x de-squeeze option, and additional monitoring enhancements. This compact 8K full-frame camera is specifically designed for single-camera operators and small crews, making it versatile for diverse filming environments.

In addition to showcasing technological advancements, Sony will host three in-depth seminars, bringing together distinguished cinematographers and industry leaders to explore key challenges and share insights. These sessions include:

Tuesday, November 19:

In Conversation with Nominated Cinematographers — a roundtable discussion featuring Mikhail Krichman, Veronika Tyron, and Rachel Clark, who will delve into the creative approaches they employed on recent projects with Sony cameras.

Wednesday, November 20:

Illuminating Stories — an exclusive masterclass with Ed Lachman, ASC, and Marko Massinger, focusing on the art and craft of cinematic lighting to achieve specific visual aesthetics and storytelling effects.

Thursday, November 21:

Building a Sustainable Industry — a timely panel with Andra Milsome (Mark Milsome Foundation), Fabian Wagner, ASC, BSC, and Irena Gruca-Rozbicka (Crew United), exploring pressing issues facing film crew members today, from career sustainability to workplace safety.

These seminars, combined with numerous networking events throughout the festival, offer attendees the opportunity to learn from renowned experts and exchange insights that enrich the cinematographic field.

Hands-on Experiences with Sony’s Cinema Line and Solutions

EnergaCamerimage 2024 attendees will also have the chance to interact directly with Sony’s full range of CineAlta cameras and production tools. The VENICE 2, VENICE Extension System 2, and BURANO will be on display alongside Sony’s suite of professional monitors and lenses, allowing filmmakers to experience firsthand the versatility, image quality, and operational ease these tools provide. Demonstrations and interactive sessions will further highlight Sony’s capabilities in areas from on-set shooting to post-production and workflow.

Empowering Cinematographers with High-End Digital Cinema Cameras and Accessories

Sony’s CineAlta family represents the forefront of high-end digital cinema technology, appealing to a wide range of users from large-scale productions to independent filmmakers. By consistently releasing firmware updates and new functionalities, Sony reinforces the longevity and versatility of its Cinema Line, ensuring that its cameras continue to meet evolving industry demands.

As EnergaCamerimage continues to serve as a prominent gathering point for the global film community, Sony’s participation underscores its commitment to advancing the art of cinematography through technological innovation and community support. To explore more about Sony’s cinematography solutions, visit pro.sony/cinematography or follow Sony on Instagram @sonyprofilmmaking for updates and insights.

With these upgrades and industry dialogues, Sony is well-positioned to help filmmakers thrive in the face of change, providing cutting-edge solutions and fostering an environment where creativity and innovation in cinematography flourish.