Sony VENICE 6K cinema camera now available from B&H studio
0ShareDigital cinema wouldn't be what it is today without Sony, which pioneered a 24p digital camera for high-end productions. That's why B&...
30/12/2021
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Digital cinema wouldn't be what it is today without Sony, which pioneered a 24p digital camera for high-end productions. That's why B&H is very pleased to announce its partnership with Sony to offer the
VENICE digital camera
. It's the next generation of digital film from Sony and takes the company into large format production, as the VENICE uses a specially developed full frame image sensor to capture stunning footage.
Really, the heart of the VENICE is a 24.8MP 36.2 x 24.1mm full-frame CMOS sensor. Sony is a leader in sensor development, this chip promises exceptional image quality, capable of capturing ultra-high resolutions, up to 6048 x 4032, using the entire sensor, when the camera is upgraded with a
CBKZ optional -3610F Full size permanent license
. Super35 shooting is natively supported up to 4096 x 3024 (4:3) from 1-48 fps or 4096 x 2160 (17:9) from 1-60 fps. The sensor is optimized for video and features high-speed readout that minimizes rolling shutter. Another aspect of this imaging system is a wide dynamic range of over 15 stops, making it perfect for HDR projects. VENICE can even exceed the BT-2020 color space and offers S-Log3 and S-Gamut3, enabling extremely accurate color reproduction in many popular motion picture film color spaces, including DCI-P3.
Filmmakers can optimize dynamic range via VENICE's Dual Base ISO configuration. It offers a base ISO of 500 for maximum capabilities, as well as a high base ISO of 2500 for low-light shooting, while offering 15 stops of dynamic range. A versatile lens mount completes the imaging pipeline. VENICE comes with a standard PL mount with Cooke/I technology for metadata recording. Beneath the PL mount is a native locking lever type E-mount that supports electronically controlled lenses. Anamorphic shooting modes are available for 2x compression with
Separate CBKZ-3610A Anamorphic Permanent License
.
Designed for high-end productions, the VENICE boasts a rugged construction that will withstand demanding conditions and operators. A quiet fan ensures there are no issues on the set and keeps the camera running smoothly. Being fully modular, it is useful for a wide range of applications. Additionally, an 8-step servo-controlled mechanical ND filter mechanism is implemented to eliminate the need to swap out external filters. Control screens are available on both sides of the camera, so current settings are easily seen by operators and the assistant. Additionally, the sensor block can be replaced for potential future upgrades, and the design supports the same baseplates as the F55.
In terms of upgrades, the
CBK-3610XS Rialto The expansion system
is compatible from firmware version 3.0. Users will be able to detach the sensor block and wire it to the main camera body via a 9' or 18' cable, opening the door to more shooting opportunities. Version 3.0 of Accessories and Firmware is also Sony 16-bit Extended Tone Gamut—Original Camera Negative, or X-OCN format. This configuration requires the
AXS-R7 external recorder
and unlocks 16-bit footage with full dynamic range and resolutions up to 6K. Compared to many other formats, including Sony RAW, which is also included, X-OCN is able to record maximum data with reduced bit rate. Several format options are available to optimize aspects of the recording for different productions. Another accessory that many VENICE operators will consider is the
DVF-EL200 OLED viewfinder
. This large, comfortable EVF offers Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution for clear viewing, adjustable diopter settings, and tool-free attachment/detachment.
Going forward, Sony is ensuring a long life for the VENICE system by providing a roadmap for future firmware updates. Each update also brings some pretty significant improvements. Currently, the system is on version 3.0, bringing X-OCN XT, 5.7K (16:9) and 6K (2.39:1) and various other functions. Version 4.0 is scheduled for June 2019. High frame rate recording is the highlight here, with 4K (2.39:1) recordable at up to 120 fps, DCI 4K available at 110 fps, 4K (4:3) can now reach 72 fps, and full 6K recording will reach 60 fps. Stay tuned for more information.
If you want to buy a
VENICE digital camera
, it will be available for B&H Studio Professional Customers. You can contact the Studio by calling 212-506-6356 or emailing
[email protected]
to inquire about purchasing this item. Purchase options include the
basic camera
; a
VENICE Lite Camera Bundle
which includes the DVF-EL200 OLED viewfinder; and one
VENICE Camera Bundle
which contains the DVF-EL200 OLED viewfinder, a full-frame permanent license, an anamorphic permanent license and an AXS-R7 external recorder with the camera. You can find more details about these cameras and their accessories on the
B&H website
.