Sony FX6
Image courtesy: Sony

Sony has released a firmware update for its Sony FX6 Cinema Line Camera. Firmware version 2.0 adds more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) based autofocus features and additional functions to improve professional workflows.

Bokeh adjustment

The Sony FX6 V2.0 firmware adds a bokeh adjustment mode. This is an entirely new feature for the Cinema Line. The feature minimizes exposure changes while adjusting the appearance of the bokeh in your image. In addition, the FX6 now has Lens Breathing Compensation, a feature seen on Sony’s Alpha 7 IV mirrorless camera. This ensures you get a consistent angle of view when pulling focus with compatible Sony lenses.

Autofocus improvements

Sony improved the FX6’s teal time tracking to allow the camera to maintain precise and fast focus on your subject. You simply identify the subject you want to track using the touch panel and the FX6 will automatically maintain accurate focus. In addition, if you select the Face/Eye Priority AF mode, the camera’s AI will detect and track the subject’s eye and face in real time. This means the focus area will seamlessly change between face and eye according to the condition of the subject. You can also use real time tracking to track the subject — even during manual focus.

Picture Cache Recording

The Sony FX6 V2.0 firmware adds new workflow capabilities, including Picture Cache Recording. This feature has been seen previously on the Sony FX9 camcorder. However, the new firmware now adds Picture Cache Recording while shooting in S&Q mode. The picture cache recording function uses an internal cache memory. This means you can capture video retroactively when you start recording and then record it to your memory cards. It’s a great way to ensure you don’t miss that crucial moment you’ve been waiting for.

RAW output via HDMI

The Sony FX6 V2.0 firmware also enables HDR and SDR dual production for SR Live and a 4-channel audio level meter. It also gives you 16-bit RAW output via HDMI.

Pricing and availability

The Sony FX6 V2.0 firmware is available free of charge. You can download the update from Sony by the end of this month.

Pete Tomkies is a freelance cinematographer and camera operator from Manchester, UK. He also produces and directs short films as Duck66 Films. Pete's latest short Once Bitten... won 15 awards and was selected for 105 film festivals around the world.