Why the Sony A7SIII is STILL the Video King in 2023 (Vs FX3 & A7RV)

I've been using the A7SIII for video for nearly 3 years and this is why I think it is still the best video option for shooters like me in 2023.

My Kit:

Amazing Cameras

Sony A7SIII

Photo/Video Lenses

Amazing value Sigma ART Prime Lenses:

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0:00 - Intro
0:27 - Owning an A7SIII
2:00 - Improvements to the FX3
5:07 - Using an FX3
5:35 - Why I prefer the A7SIII
8:50 - A7SIII vs ZV E1
9:15 - A7SIII vs A7RV

[DocBoA]

Ordering the A7siii for video and retiring my A7iv to photo duty this wknd. Top notch Content

[CLIFFLIX]

I was told that the FX3 vent holes are not actually on the "inside" of the camera. It's supposedly more accurate to say they are still "outside" of the "real" body of the camera. Water can actually pass through it without going "inside" the actual sealed body. The heat sync is made to get (somewhat) wet.

[Thechristianedwardss]

I own an FX6 and am a documentary surf/ outdoor lifestyle film maker and photographer. I come from a photo journalism background so have been shooting in the A7R2 since release with the FX6 being my video camera. The FX6 has bigger open fan holes on the entire side and I’ve run that camera on the beach, on boats, and in harsh weather since release years ago, it’s a beast of a camera and hasn’t hindered me, other than with how big it is sometimes. That being said I finally just upgraded to the A7RV to cover me while I sent my FX6 in for maintenance. Was debating heavily between an FX3 or A7S3, and honestly feel like when all is said and done I would ditch my FX6 in a heart beat for the setup you just laid out. I’ve used all cameras and think you got it spot on in this review, can’t wait to see what they do with the A7V, that’ll probably be the go to for a lot of people when it drops. Earned a sub, can’t wait to see what you do in the future🙌🏼🔥

[Bobdrumbro]

vents work fine in the rain and bad weather Sony did a good job on that part. I get that some shooters wil miss the evf but the vents are a rock solid improvement

[boomshiddang]

Appreciate your thoughts on this Rick! I love your point about the new vents on the FX3 — sometimes camera brands market new features as the next best thing, but in practical reality sometimes works out as 2 steps forward and 1 step back. Always good to keep stuff like that in mind!

[jere]

Thank you for your video! I also have the A7sIII and there is no reason for me to swith to another camera. I love the evf too. I can emphasize every single one of your reasons. I love the A7sIII

[ListenHereOldMan]

imo by far the best feature from the new update is focus breathing comp, which u didn't mention!
if you're using sony glass, and in particular certain lenses (some of their best lenses too), it's crucial.

[zafarnamah]

Looks like the 3.01 firmware update for A7S3 further closes the gaps with some of the negatives you have outlined in relation to the FX3 in this video.

[mauibuilder]

If you can't make amazing video's with the Sony A7siii you can't make amazing videos. I love the viewfinder in certain situations and the photos are fine for my use. I love the low light capabilities and am dabbling in astrophotography.

[jamessonfield]

Very valid points to be fair! And yes that EVF is mega!

[limelightmuskoka]

The Sony FX-3 destroys the Sony A7S III for serious Video Production.

Purpose-built for Cinematography boasting a design that prioritizes video production. It's streamlined and optimized for video shooters, making it more intuitive to handle during extended shooting sessions. Like the three tally lights on its body which light up when recording. It's really handy for small production crews.

16-bit ProRes RAW Recording: The FX-3 supports 16-bit ProRes RAW recording, providing an unprecedented level of colour depth and flexibility in post-production. With 16 bits per channel, you have significantly more data to work with, allowing for finer adjustments to color, exposure, and other image attributes without sacrificing image quality. Compared to 10-bit ProRes RAW, which offers impressive quality and flexibility in its own right, 16-bit ProRes RAW provides even greater latitude for creative expression and ensures maximum image fidelity, especially in demanding shooting scenarios such as high-contrast scenes or extensive color grading. By offering 16-bit ProRes RAW recording, the FX-3 enables filmmakers to capture footage with the highest level of detail and dynamic range, giving them the confidence to push the boundaries of their creativity and achieve stunning cinematic results. (16bit is 68X more colours than 10 bit)

Fanless Cooling System: Unlike the a7S III, the FX-3 features a fanless cooling system. This means no risk of overheating during prolonged shoots, ensuring consistent performance even in challenging conditions.

Enhanced Durability: The FX-3 is constructed with durability in mind, featuring a rugged magnesium alloy body that's built to withstand the rigors of professional filmmaking. It's designed to handle the demands of frequent use in various environments.

XLR Audio Input: One standout feature of the FX-3 is its built-in XLR audio input, allowing for professional-grade audio recording without the need for external adapters or recorders. This simplifies your setup and enhances audio quality, a crucial aspect of any video production.

Integrated Grip and Mounting Points: The FX-3's integrated grip and multiple mounting points offer greater versatility and stability when attaching accessories such as monitors, lights, or microphones. This makes it easier to customize your rig according to your shooting preferences.

Anamorphic De-squeeze function in camera. Only the FX-3 allows you to properly preview and capture footage shot with anamorphic lenses, maintaining the intended aspect ratio and avoiding distortion during playback. To Pre-visualize the scene without awkward distortion.

True 24p DCI 4K. The FX-3 supports DCI 4K (17x9) recording, which is the standard for digital cinema. This means you can capture footage in the same format used by professional filmmakers. By shooting in DCI (Digital Cinema Initiatives) format, it expands your creative possibilities, allowing you to achieve a cinematic look and feel for your projects. Whether you're shooting indie films, documentaries, or commercial content, having the ability to record in DCI format adds a professional touch to your

Lens Breathing is another aspect where the FX-3 excels compared to the a7S III. The FX-3 addresses this issue with reduced lens breathing, providing smoother and more consistent focusing throughout your shots. ensures that your footage maintains a consistent perspective, particularly important for professional filmmaking where maintaining visual integrity is crucial. Whether you're pulling focus during a scene or using autofocus, the FX-3's minimized lens breathing helps preserve the cinematic quality of your footage, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience for your audience.

In September 2024 another firmware update will add more for cinematographers.• Shutter Angle: Users will be able to choose from both Shutter Speed/Shutter Angle similar to what is available with the FX6.
A NEW preset 709tone support to colour match multiple Cinema cameras.
Ability to add clip flags to mark shots - SRT/RTMP/RTMPS support for live streaming via the Creator’s App

The EVF is not an issue when you are shooting RAW with an external monitor such as a NinjA V which unlocks many Advanced Monitoring Features: The Ninja V offers a range of advanced monitoring tools such as waveform monitors, histograms, focus peaking, and zebras. False Colours. These tools can help you achieve more accurate exposure and focus, ensuring higher-quality footage.

While both cameras have stabilizing modes the FX-3 has an Active Stabilization mode that is not present on the Sony A7S III .

Simply put Sony will NEVER EVER... cannibalize the FX Cinema line gear for the Alpha line.

[RandumbTech]

I have the FX3 and love it in most situations. But not having an EVF has frustrated me on many occasions. I don't want to set up a 5 inch monitor every time I go outside. I just wish Sony would add full Timecode support like they've don with the FX3. Unfortunately, I don't see them adding that functionality anytime soon.

[NanaMisa]

I think the a7siii is way better value than the FX3 especially now as on the used market as you can pick them up for anywhere between £2000 - £2500 and vs £4000 for the FX3. I primarily use BlackMagic cameras. I use to have a Sony A7siii but I sold it. I slightly regret it as I need a camera for some of my client work that requires quick videos for social media have that high quality look. I considered FX3 but paying £2K extra for true 24fps, anamorphic options and an improve menu for me is way too much especially as they produce the exactly same image

[KimwellH]

Thanks for sharing.. I agree here and that's is why i bought same A7siii several months ago

[Pfagnan]

Good video! I own it too and have no regrets either way. It’s a VIDEO BEAST! Photos are very decent unless you do serious cropping. Thank You!! 👏

[garfieldmtify]

EVF is truly the only true issue I think. FX3 is used in bad conditions and holds up the same as A7Siii which I also own. …I think it would very difficult to get great images out of either cameras. Nice review!!

[jennifercall]

Loved your work with Nigel! Thank you for the video.

[ListenHereOldMan]

DCI ups it from 3840x2160 to 4096x2160, but it's not the full sensor, like RAW gives you (which is significantly larger at 4264x2408)

[alexanderchua]

I own the FX6 right now and I sold my FX3 and FX30 and I am likely to get A7S3 as my work changed to hybrid photo video again.

[adalbertantonie]

You are corect until you said you need more MP for the A7S3 ore the upcoming A7S4....NO !!! You don't. We need the A7S4 to stay with 12 MP....so please Sony....dont increase the MP count for The anyone needs more resolution, then dont buy the A7S4....that's why you have the A7III or A7IV or A7R4 and A7RV or A1....etc etc... You can't have amazing low light with more than 12 MP....you don't know how sensor technology work's and that is why you are asking something wich you don't understand. So, be happy with your A7S3 or sell it and get something with bigger resolution but don't ask sony to increase MP on the upcoming A7S4 !!!