HOW TO RIG - A Guide To Rigging Sony Cinema Cameras!

HOW TO RIG - A Guide To Rigging Sony Cinema Cameras!

At George's Cameras, we understand that proper camera rigging is crucial in the world of filmmaking. A well-rigged camera not only enhances the quality of your shots but also improves efficiency on set and protects your equipment from damage. Whether you're on a fast-paced shoot or a large-scale production, the right rig can make all the difference. In this guide, we'll explore how to rig three different Sony cameras including the Sony FX3, Sony FX6, and Sony BURANO - for various shooting scenarios, each with its own specific setup. 


 


The Sony FX3 is a Versatile Camcorder in a Compact Form


The Sony FX3 is a compact and versatile cinema camera that has rapidly gained popularity among filmmakers for its impressive blend of features, portability, and performance. Designed with independent filmmakers and content creators in mind, the FX3 combines the image quality and capabilities of larger cinema cameras with the ease of use typically associated with mirrorless systems. It boasts a full-frame sensor with 4K resolution, offering exceptional low-light performance and a dynamic range that allows for capturing stunning, cinematic images even in challenging lighting conditions.


The camera's built-in image stabilisation, advanced autofocus, and extensive range of customizable settings further enhance its usability, making it a powerful tool for both run-and-gun shooting and more controlled production environments.


 

Scenarios Where Rigging the Sony FX3 Excels

  • Run-and-Gun Filmmaking
  • Gimbal-Mounted Dynamic Shots
  • Drone Filming
  • Minimal Post-Production Needs
  • High Frame Rate Slow-Motion
  • Compact Multi-Angle Shooting

Rigging the Sony FX3

As Hieu mentions, the Sony FX3 works really well on a gimbal and also as a run-and-gun solution for capturing short films, documentaries, commercials, and music videos. Its compact design and lightweight body make it ideal for handheld shooting or mounting on gimbals and drones, enabling dynamic and creative camera movements. Additionally, the FX3 supports various professional video formats and offers S-Cinetone, a colour profile that delivers filmic colour tones right out of the camera, reducing the need for extensive post-production work.


With its ability to shoot in high frame rates and deliver beautiful slow-motion footage, the FX3 provides anyone with the creative freedom to experiment and produce visually captivating content. Below are the two main setups that you'll most likely encounter when using the FX3.


 

Setup 1: FX3 on a Gimbal for Smooth, Dynamic Shots


When setting up the Sony FX3 on a gimbal for smooth, dynamic shots, it's essential to begin by properly balancing the camera on the gimbal. This balance is critical not only for achieving stable footage but also for ensuring the optimal performance of the gimbal's motors and prolonging battery life.


Start by securing the FX3 onto the gimbal's mounting plate and gradually adjust the camera's position until it is perfectly balanced in all axes. This balance should allow the camera to remain steady in any position without significant drift, ensuring smooth and fluid movements during filming. Make sure that recording controls are accessible from the gimbal handle, enabling you to start and stop recording without missing any crucial moments.



Before finalising the setup, it's advisable to attach all necessary accessories, including a monitor, V-Lock battery, and any required cables. Adding these components before balancing is crucial as it prevents the need for rebalancing later, which could be necessary if the camera's weight distribution changes, such as when swapping lenses.


When attaching these accessories, manage the cables carefully to avoid any interference with the gimbal's movements, which could lead to jerky or unstable footage. The inclusion of a cage may be considered based on your specific gimbal's compatibility, although it's optional depending on your needs and the complexity of the setup.


This gimbal setup is ideal for shoots involving significant movement, such as tracking shots, action sequences, or dynamic handheld shooting. The combination of the FX3's advanced video capabilities and the gimbal's stabilisation ensures that you capture smooth, cinematic footage even in challenging conditions. The setup is versatile, allowing for a range of movements and angles while maintaining stability, making it a powerful tool for any filmmaker aiming to achieve professional-quality shots with fluid motion.

 

Recommended Equipment for a Sony FX3 Gimbal Rig

 


Setup 2: Run-and-Gun Configuration for Maximum Flexibility


To effectively set up a run-and gun configuration for the Sony FX3, start by securing the camera within a compact cage like the Tilta FX3 Cage. This cage not only safeguards the camera but also provides multiple mounting points for essential accessories, allowing for a highly versatile shooting setup. The cage's lightweight design ensures that the camera remains easy to handle, even during dynamic, fast-paced filming sessions. Its ergonomic build allows for smooth operation while on the move, making it ideal for run-and-gun scenarios where speed and flexibility are critical.


Next, enhance your grip on the camera by attaching a top handle, which offers improved stability and control when shooting handheld. For optimal viewing in varied lighting conditions, integrate a small external monitor mounted on a NATO rail. The NATO rail system's adaptability allows for quick adjustments to the monitor's placement, ensuring clear visibility of your shots from different angles. Additionally, the external monitor facilitates better framing and focus, which is crucial for capturing high-quality footage in unpredictable environments.



Finally, equip the setup with a shotgun microphone to ensure the capture of clear, directional audio, which is vital in run-and-gun shooting situations. Mounting the microphone on the cage or the NATO rail keeps it close to the action while remaining out of the shot.


To maintain power throughout extended shoots, use a V-Lock battery mounted on the rail. This battery can power both the camera and the external monitor, providing long-lasting energy without adding significant bulk, allowing you to focus on capturing the perfect shot without worrying about battery life.

Recommended Equipment for a Sony FX3 Run-and-Gun Rig



The Sony FX6 A Powerful Camcorder That Ensures Flexibility


The Sony FX6 stands as a pinnacle in cinematic technology, offering a unique blend of versatility and professional-grade features that set it apart from the FX3. Designed for filmmakers who demand more from their gear, the FX6 is equipped with a superior set of tools that cater to a wide range of production needs. Its full-frame sensor delivers breathtaking image quality, capturing fine details with exceptional dynamic range, while the advanced autofocus system ensures that every shot remains sharp, even in fast-paced environments. The FX6 also offers a range of codecs, including the robust XAVC-I, which allows for greater flexibility in post-production, ensuring that filmmakers can push the boundaries of creativity without compromise.



One of the key reasons filmmakers might choose the FX6 over the FX3 is its comprehensive suite of professional features, which are specifically tailored for high-end productions. The FX6 boasts a built-in electronic variable ND filter, providing filmmakers with precise control over exposure in varying lighting conditions, a feature that is invaluable on set. Additionally, the FX6's modular design supports a variety of professional accessories, making it adaptable to different shooting scenarios, whether it's mounted on a gimbal, rigged for handheld shooting, or used in complex multi-camera setups.


While the FX3 is a capable camera in its own right, the FX6 offers a level of sophistication and flexibility that is essential for filmmakers who are serious about their craft, making it the superior choice for those looking to elevate their storytelling.


 

Scenarios Where Rigging the Sony FX6 Excels

  • Documentary Filmmaking
  • Narrative Film Production
  • Commercial Projects
  • Seamless Transition Between Handheld and Tripod Setups
  • Extended Handheld Shooting
  • Cinematic Focus Control with Follow Focus and Matte Box
  • Continuous Power Supply for Accessories
  • Versatile Multi-Component Rigging

Setting Up the FX6 for Versatility


Begin by securing a sturdy base plate and rod system, which serve as the foundation for your rig, providing stability and flexibility. This setup enables you to add and adjust various components according to your shooting needs. Ensure that the base plate is compatible with your tripod or shoulder rig, allowing seamless transitions between stationary and mobile shooting setups. Incorporating NATO rails on the top of the camera provides additional support, proving more robust than a standard hot shoe, thereby reducing the risk of wear or damage when attaching accessories.


 

Next, focus on enhancing your control over the camera's functionality. Attach a follow focus system to the rod for precise focus control, essential for smooth racking shots. Adding a matte box helps to manage lens flare and allows you to incorporate creative filters, such as a super mist filter, which softens the image for a cinematic effect. The FX6's built-in neutral density filters eliminate the need for an external variable ND filter, simplifying your rig while maintaining image quality.


For powering your setup, opt for a V-Lock battery, attached via a Wooden Camera V-Lock adapter. This battery can power both the FX6 and any additional accessories, such as external monitors or wireless video transmitters, ensuring continuous operation without frequent battery changes. If you need to transition into a shoulder-mounted configuration, consider using extension arms which offer ergonomic flexibility, or pair the setup with extension arms which will reduce fatigue and improve stability.

 

Recommended Equipment for a Sony FX6 Rig


Sony BURANO: Made For Production


The Sony BURANO emerges as a cinematic powerhouse, tailored for professionals who demand more than just high-quality video production. With its 8.6K full-frame sensor, the BURANO offers an unprecedented level of detail and dynamic range, setting a new benchmark in image fidelity. This camera isn't just about resolution; it is designed to deliver rich, lifelike colours and an extraordinary level of sharpness that caters to the most discerning filmmakers.



The flagship camcorder's ability to capture 16-bit RAW and its superior latitude in low light conditions make it a formidable choice for those who seek to push the boundaries of visual storytelling. The combination of these advanced features positions the BURANO not just as an upgrade from the FX6 but as a statement piece for those looking to elevate their craft to new heights.


Choosing the BURANO over the FX6 is a decision rooted in the desire for uncompromised quality and versatility. While the FX6 is undoubtedly a remarkable camera in its own right, the BURANO offers a more robust set of features that cater to a different echelon of filmmakers.


The BURANO's built-in ND filters, advanced autofocus system, and the capability to record at higher frame rates without sacrificing resolution or dynamic range make it an ideal tool for high-end productions. Furthermore, the camera's design, with its intuitive interface and rugged build, is engineered for the rigours of professional use. For filmmakers who prioritise the highest quality output and the flexibility to meet diverse production needs, the BURANO stands as the superior choice over the FX6.


Scenarios Where Rigging the Sony BURANO Excels

  • Large-Scale Narrative Film Productions
  • High-End Commercial Projects
  • Complex Cinematic Shots with Precise Control
  • Stabilised Setup on Tripods, Jibs, or Robotic Arms
  • Real-Time Wireless Monitoring for Directors and Clients
  • Seamless and Accurate Focus Adjustments
  • Versatile Multi-Angle Shooting with Shoulder Rig Capabilities
  • Enhanced Workflow with Continuous Power Supply


Setup 1: Lightweight Setup for Documentary-Style Shooting


When planning for a lightweight setup ideal for documentary-style shooting, it is essential to prioritise mobility without compromising on the essential functionalities required for professional production. The core of this setup revolves around the Sony BURANO camera, which Bright Tangerine Cine Kit supports. This kit includes a base plate, top handle, and side plate, providing a robust foundation with multiple mounting points for various accessories. The use of NATO rails in this setup is crucial as they offer maximum flexibility, enabling the seamless attachment of monitors and other necessary equipment while maintaining a streamlined and adaptable rig.



To ensure continuous power without adding unnecessary bulk, a compact V-Lock battery system is recommended. This battery system offers sufficient power to support both the camera and monitor, allowing for extended shooting periods without frequent battery changes. A critical addition to this setup is the Tilta Monitor Mount, which addresses the common issue of rigidity in stock mounts, allowing for a more versatile and comfortable monitoring experience.


In summary, this lightweight setup for documentary-style shooting combines the essential components of the Sony BURANO camera with the Bright Tangerine Cine Kit, ensuring a stable and adaptable platform for any production environment. The addition of a compact V-Lock battery system, along with the Tilta Monitor Mount, ensures that the setup remains both functional and safe. This configuration allows for high-quality, mobile shooting without the need for cumbersome equipment, making it an excellent choice for documentary filmmakers and smaller production teams.

Recommended Equipment for a Sony BURANO Lightweight Rig


Setup 2: Full Cinema Rig for Large-Scale Productions


For large-scale productions requiring a versatile and powerful setup, the full cinema rig for the Sony BURANO is an ideal choice. This rig is designed to support high-end projects such as narrative films, commercials, or any other complex production that demands precise control over the cinematography.


To start, mount the BURANO camera on a tripod, jib, or robotic arm, each offering stability and precise framing. This is particularly critical for maintaining consistent focus and composition during intricate shots. The choice of support system should be compatible with the BURANO, ensuring a secure and balanced setup.



An essential component of this rig is the large external monitor, with the DJI Transmission System being highly recommended. This system not only provides a clear and detailed view of your footage but also enables wireless video transmission, which is indispensable for real-time monitoring by the director or client, free from the constraints of cumbersome cables.


For precise focus control, the Nucleus M Follow Focus is attached to the rig's rails, providing seamless and accurate adjustments. The Bright Tangerine Cage, equipped with a dovetail base plate, allows for fine-tuning the camera's position on tripods, ensuring the perfect centre of balance. This cage also features an adjustable top handle, crucial for maintaining balance when using rigs like easy rigs, reverse mounts or robotic arms. For added versatility, arm extensions and a compatible shoulder pad can be incorporated, transforming the setup into a comfortable and functional shoulder rig, allowing for handheld shooting without sacrificing stability or control. This comprehensive setup maximises the capabilities of the Sony BURANO, making it a powerhouse for large-scale cinematic productions.


Recommended Equipment for a Sony BURANO Production Rig

Final Thoughts


Whether you're working solo or part of a larger production team, rigging your camera correctly is essential for efficient shooting and high-quality results. From the versatile Sony FX3 and FX6 to the robust Sony BURANO, each camera can be tailored to meet the demands of any production environment. By investing time in building the right rig, you can significantly improve your workflow and the final output of your projects.


For more expert advice on rigging your Sony camera or to see these setups in person, meet with us in-store at George's Cameras or online at georges.com.au.

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