Sony reveals Venice, the next generation of CineAlta full frame 6K cameras

Venice is presented as a 36x24mm full frame solution, with anamorphic capabilities, interchangeable sensor, 8-level ND filter system, new color management system and a fully modular design.

In the prelude to IBC, Sony has revealed its new Venice digital cinematography camera, a 36x24mm 6K full-frame solution, with anamorphic capabilities, interchangeable sensor, 8-level ND filter system, new color management system and a fully modular design. Sony's new generation of CineAlta cameras, which inherit aspects of the popular F65 and F55, aim to expand directors' creative freedom by capturing full-frame, large-format cinema images, offering natural skin tones and excellent low-light response.

The Japanese multinational has developed this camera as a result of close collaboration with directors of photography and film production professionals. Among the demands of professionals, versatility stands out when choosing the appropriate optics for each production. Now, the Venice's 36x24mm full-frame sensor enables compatibility with a wide range of lenses, including anamorphic, Super 35mm and full-frame PL-mount lenses, increasing creative freedom with shallow depth of field.

The lens mount can also be changed to support E-mount lenses for shooting situations that require smaller, lighter, and wider lenses. User-selectable areas of the image sensor allow shooting in Super 35mm 4 – perfect. Future firmware updates will allow the camera to handle 36mm 6K resolution. Rapid image scanning technology will also minimize the so-called “Jello” effect.

Another aspect that the new Venice provides is its advanced color management that puts greater control and freedom in the hands of creatives to fine-tune color from the camera itself and prepare the way for final correction in post-production. Venice also has over 15 stops of latitude to handle challenging low-light or direct sunlight lighting situations with a smooth roll-off.

Peter Crithary, Sony's marketing director, highlights that “our next generation camera system is a development initiative that includes a completely new image sensor. We carefully consider key aspects such as form factor, ergonomics, build quality, ease of use, a refined image and image look, with a simple and established workflow. We work closely with professionals in the film industry. “We also considered the longer-term strategy by designing a user-interchangeable sensor that is as quick and easy to change as changing four screws, thus adapting to different shooting scenarios as needed.”

Sensor as “emulsion”

Note that the Venice camera has the ability to change the sensor, allowing cinematographers to choose the look they want as if they were old film emulsions. Sony proposes to develop them over time for different applications and at the request of cinematographers

Its 6K full frame sensor responds with a highly efficient signal-to-noise ratio in low light, achieving greater dynamic range, a key aspect in the new HDR environments.

Finally, note that andIt's the first camera with a built-in 8-stage glass ND filter system, improving efficiency and simplifying camera setup. The camera is designed for easy operation with an intuitive control panel placed on the sides of the camera. A 24V power input/output and LEMO connector allow the use of numerous accessories designed for use in harsh environments.