Just announced: New Sony FR7 E-mount Cinema Line PTZ Camera for $9,699

Preorders:
Sony FR7 at BHphoto.

Previews:
Hand-son by Explora. Press text on SAR. Product page at Sony PRO.

Key Features

  • Supports up to UHD 4K120 Video
  • Sony E-Mount Lens Interchangeability
  • 4K Full-Frame Sensor
  • 12G-SDI, HDMI & Streaming Output
  • Variable Electronic ND Filter
  • Smooth, Slow Pan & Tilt Movement
  • IR, IP & Web App Remote Control
  • Flexible PoE+ Installation
  • Genlock, Timecode & Tally Lamps

Images:

Now available for preorder: A Revolutionary New Version of ON1 Photo RAW is Coming Soon!

Today ON1 PhotoRAW announced the full features of their new ON1 Photo RAW version 2023 (Click here to see all features and preorder it for $99).

Here is the press text:

A Revolutionary New Version of ON1 Photo RAW is Coming Soon!

ON1, creators of software applications and plugins for photographers, announce the all-new ON1 Photo RAW version 2023 is coming in October. The 2023 version is the most significant update in ON1 Photo RAW’s history. Many new AI-powered features turn traditional photo editing methods on their head.

These new technologies in Photo RAW 2023 take away the steep learning-curve that come with more traditional ways of editing. Photographers no longer have to deal with the tedious methods of masking, layering, brushing, or adjusting when working on specific areas of their photos.

The most incredible new editing tool is Super Select AI. If you can point, you can make edits and adjustments to your photos that would have taken multiple steps and tools in the past. Super Select AI removes the nuisance of learning new tools to achieve the desired editing results. It will allow photographers to point to an area of the photo, such as the sky, people, objects, background, and foreground, and choose a type of effect or enhancement for just that area.

“If there’s a tool that puts version 2023 a step above any other photo editor, it’s Super Select AI. It completely changes how you approach and interact with your photos. It is so simple, you will be able to expand your creativity like never before. The first time you use this tool, you immediately start to wonder about the possibilities Super Select AI presents. And, the results are instant, the speed is incredible! It makes me smile every time I use it. It’s just that good,” says Craig Keudell, ON1 President.

The new version 2023 also includes several other remarkable new AI-powered masking technologies. The new Mask AI will automatically segment photos and identify objects like people or animals and regions like the sky, mountains, flora, water, and ground. Photographers can then select the areas from a list and apply filters or adjustments with a great-looking mask. Taking the new AI-segmenting technology a step further, Photo RAW 2023 also includes AI-Powered Adaptive Presets. These new subject-aware presets will give photographers one-click solutions to challenging problems like brightening the subject, darkening the sky, or adding detail to foliage.

ON1 Photo RAW 2023 also takes a giant leap forward in providing superior image quality. AI-powered state-of-the-art technologies for removing noise, sharpening, and upscaling photos will all be in version 2023. ON1 will combine the industry-leading and updated NoNoise AI with an all-new Tack Sharp AI technology. This fantastic new tool uses state-of-art machine learning to deblur or sharpen. It will detect and remove motion blur and even save out-of-focus shots. Version 2023 is one of the only applications that will give photographers the best-in-class noise reduction, sharpening, and the most advanced image upscaling technology with ON1 Resize AI–in one application, at a remarkable price.

“Many of these new features will save customers a ton of time. They not only remove the frustration people have with learning something new, but they also give you so much flexibility. Everyone knows that you need to adjust noise reduction and sharpening at the same time, they are a yin and yang balance. Having Tack Sharp be part of NoNoise lets you adjust them together for the best results.” adds Dan Harlacher, VP of Product.

The list of new features and updates in version 2023 keeps growing. Other new features include a significant update to Quick Mask AI and a new way to add keywords automatically. The new Keyword AI can see hundreds of objects and regions, identify locations, find people, and understand photographic properties, which then become searchable terms to help find photos faster. No one enjoys keywording their photos but everyone wants to find them instantly. Keyword AI will take the pain out of keywording for you.

Lastly, the new version includes a new content-aware crop tool, auto color-fringe reduction, improvements to Sky Swap AI, full screen previews of presets, a new application manager, and new camera and lens support.

Pricing & Availability
ON1 offers the choice to purchase with both perpetual license or subscription options for ON1 Photo RAW. ON1 Photo RAW 2023 is available to pre-order today for $99.99 for a perpetual license for new customers. Owners of any previous version of any ON1 products can order version 2023 for the upgrade price of $79.99. A free 14-day trial will also be available to download in October once the product is officially made available.

ON1 subscribers will automatically receive the new ON1 Photo RAW 2023 as part of their plans, along with the 2023 versions of the ON1 Plugins, soon after the release of Photo RAW 2023. ON1 subscription plans always include the latest version of ON1 Photo RAW for computers and mobile, the cloud syncing, and all ON1 plugins. Starting subscription plans are as low as $7.99 per month or $89.99 per year.

A single purchase of any ON1 product includes Windows and macOS versions for use on two computers and support for 11 languages. For a limited time, any purchase of the new ON1 Photo RAW 2023 includes bonuses of 50 additional Adaptive Presets for Portraits and Landscapes and a new course for using the new Mask AI features.

Key Features in ON1 Photo RAW 2023

  • Super Select AI — Applying adjustments to areas in your photos couldn’t be easier than the new Super Select AI Tool. Just tap on the areas you want to adjust and then pick an adjustment. Want the sky darker? Click-click-done. How about greener grass? Click-click-done. It’s a speedy and natural way to edit that will change how you approach editing your photos for the better.
  • Mask AI — Say goodbye to tedious brushing when you need to mask or target a specific area. Mask AI uses state-of-art machine learning to segment photos, identifying objects like people or animals and regions like the sky, mountains, flora, water, and ground. You can select subjects or areas from the list when masking layers, effects, or local adjustments. Mask AI will create great-looking masks instantly. You can even choose regions to apply filters or adjustments to when you add them, making it easy to get just the adjustment you want.
  • AI-Powered Adaptive Presets — Presets just got even more powerful. They can automatically target common subjects like people, water, skies, and buildings. The incredible new subject-aware presets give you one-click solutions to challenging problems like brightening the subject, darkening the sky, or adding detail to foliage. Best of all, you can create your own subject-aware presets.
  • Quick Mask AI — We’ve rebuilt the Quick Mask tool to make it faster and more intuitive. The AI segments the photo into regions and objects automatically. Then click on the segments you want to mask, which automatically builds a high-quality mask, no brushing needed.
  • Tack Sharp AI — State-of-the-art sharpening and deblurring is now part of NoNoise AI, your single solution for simultaneously removing noise and sharpening photos. It can detect and remove motion blur as well as save out-of-focus shots. Stop throwing out the perfect shot just because it’s a little soft.
  • Keyword AI — No one likes adding keywords, but we do like finding our photos. Keyword AI in Browse uses AI semantics and metadata to suggest keywords for you automatically. It can see hundreds of objects and regions, identify locations, find people, and understand photographic properties. These all become searchable terms to help you find your photos faster.
  • Content-Aware Crop — If you have ever had to crop or level a photo and have lost important details near the edges, the new content-aware crop will be a lifesaver. It can expand the photo canvas and fill the new edges with realistic detail.
  • Improvements to Sky Swap AI — Leveraging the new Mask AI technology, we continue improving the sky’s AI detection and masking. We are adding options for adjusting the angle of the sky and for better matching of edges like trees when going from a light to a dark sky.
  • Auto Color Fringe Reduction — Determining the right amount of color fringe removal is a thing of the past. The new auto option detects the color fringe or chromatic aberrations and removes them automatically.
  • ON1 Application Manager — The ON1 Application Manager makes it easier to find and install ON1 Apps and keep them up to date. If you are a subscriber, you can find all your apps, and new apps will be available automatically.
  • In-App Notifications — Learn about new courses, videos, and creative assets in the app with new account in-app notifications.
  • Full Screen Preview of Presets — You can now get a huge, full screen preview of a preset applied to your photo simply by mousing over the thumbnail of the preset. This makes shopping and select the right preset much faster.
  • Support for new cameras and lenses — Added support for GoPro GPR raw format. We will also be adding support for a range of new cameras and lenses, which will be shared as we get closer to the release.

About ON1 Photo RAW
ON1 Photo RAW 2023 is the ultimate all-in-one photo editing application. This professional-grade AI-powered photo editor is a robust organizer, raw processor, layered editor, and photo effects app. Top it off with mobile and cloud integration, and photographers have a complete desktop and mobile workflow ecosystem. With the most incredible new AI-based technologies and features in years, version 2023 will offer photographers unique new approaches to how they edit, save time editing and still achieve superior quality in their editing results.

Preorder now the new ON1 Photo RAW 2023 software ($99 or $79 if you upgrade).

Press text: Sony Electronics Launches the FR7, the World’s First*1 Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera to Combine a Full-frame Image Sensor, Lens Interchangeability, and Remote Shooting Functionality

Preorders:
Sony FR7 at BHphoto.

Sony Electronics Launches the FR7, the World’s First*1 Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera to Combine a Full-frame Image Sensor, Lens Interchangeability, and Remote Shooting Functionality

Sony’s Cinema Line PTZ camera opens new creative and cinematic possibilities for content creators, from filmmakers to live event or music video producers

Sony Contacts: Tanya Lyon, Sony Cine Marketing, Tanya.Lyon@sony.com

LOS ANGELES, CA – September 6, 2022 – Sony Electronics Inc. announces today the latest addition to its Cinema Line, the ILME-FR7, an E-mount interchangeable lens camera with a full-frame image sensor and built-in pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) functionality. Its versatile remote control and cinematic features open creative possibilities in studio, live production and filmmaking settings.

A high-performance full-frame image sensor and the expressive scope of Sony’s extensive E-mount lens*2 lineup work with remote pan/tilt/zoom control, high flexibility in zoom capability and wide angle shooting to break through location and space limitations. It also offers the cinematic look and operability that have made Sony digital cinema cameras push the boundaries of the filmmaking industry, plus versatile connectivity and efficient multi camera workflow support.

“The cinematic look and feel is rapidly becoming the norm in broadcasting and live production as it opens up new ways to tell a narrative,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “In parallel, over the last 2 years, we’ve seen a steep rise in content created remotely or in small locations where access is difficult. At Sony, we are always listening to our customers. We are thrilled to announce the FR7 that combines the flexibility of a standard PTZ camera with stunning visuals through advanced cinematic features.”

Uncompromised Image Quality in a PTZ Form Factor

The FR7 features a back-illuminated 35mm full-frame CMOS image sensor Exmor R™ with approximately 10.3 effective megapixels and wide 15+ stop latitude*3 in a pan tilt zoom (PTZ) camera for the first time. In addition to wide dynamic range, low noise, and cinematic full frame bokeh, this amazing sensor also delivers high sensitivity that allows ISO to be expanded up to 409,600*4 when shooting in low light.

The FR7 features Sony’s E-mount and can mount a wide range of E-mount lenses*2, including the G Master™ series with stunning resolution and bokeh effect. A choice of focal lengths ranging from 12 mm to 1200 mm*5 gives users comprehensive creative control.

A number of Cinema Line features are built into the camera to deliver a cinematic look and feel including:

  • The Sensitivity setting allows ISO to be expanded up to 409,600*4 when shooting in low light.
  • A 15+ stop latitude*3 allows smooth highlights and low noise levels.
  • A number of preset scene files are included including S-Cinetone for natural mid-tones that are essential to healthy-looking skin color, plus soft colors and gorgeous highlights. Since the target look can be created while shooting, time can be saved in post-production. In the Cine EI mode, base sensitivity can be set to either ISO 800 or ISO 12800 to match lighting conditions and to minimize noise while maintaining a consistent look. This mode is ideal for post-production, as it allows the use of Sony’s original S-Log3 gamma, wide S-Gamut3 and S-Gamut3.Cine color spaces.
  • Shooting up to 120fps 4K (QFHD) and 240 fps FHD*6 slow-motion is possible, again creating that emotional possibility offered by a cinematic look.

Easy Operation for Storytelling from New Angles

With a new dedicated web application, pan, tilt, zoom, focus, record, playback, and all camera settings can be intuitively controlled from a tablet or computer web browser. Multiple people can monitor FR7 footage remotely at the same time. Multi camera monitoring is also enabled, allowing multiple cameras to be viewed remotely on one device. With its integrated remotely controllable pan/tilt mechanism, the FR7 can be mounted on a tripod, on a ceiling with the dedicated CIB-PCM1, or in other locations with limited access so that subjects can be unobtrusively followed and recorded from unique viewpoints. It is also compatible with Sony’s RM-IP500 remote controller*7 for multi-camera production, expanding creative potential while reducing the need for dedicated staff in production studios and other shooting situations. A single RM-IP500 unit can remotely control up to 100 PTZ cameras and provide precious joystick-controlled pan, tilt, and zoom operation. ​
​​
​The supplied infrared remote controller will also support the FR7’s simple operation.

Variable PTZ Movements for Smooth Camera Work

Pan and tilt speed can be continuously varied from 0.02 degrees per second to 60 degrees per second, supporting a wide range of stable and smooth camera movements. The pan angle range is from -170° to +170°, and the tilt angle range is from -30° to +195°.

Up to 100 Preset Camera Positions

The FR7 can memorize up to 100 camera position presets.*8 The built-in web application and optional RM-IP500 remote controller allow up to 100 camera position presets to be recalled. Presets include camera direction, zoom, and focus, and can be recalled at the touch of a button.

The FR7 will also support S700 protocol via Ethernet, enabling control of this product from Sony’s Remote Control Panel (RCP) and Master Setup Unit (MSU) with a firmware update*9.

Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking

Fast Hybrid AF and pan/tilt/zoom functionalities combine to focus on static or fast-moving subjects precisely and smoothly over a wide area, to avoid blurred images, even when a shallow depth of field is used.

The integrated BIONZ XR™ engine realizes detection performance for pinpoint eye focus even when subjects are looking at steep angles, allowing the operator to concentrate on composing the best shot. Touch Focus can be used to initiate focusing with Real-time Tracking on the desired subject when using the FR7’s web application, with Real-time Eye AF if an eye is detected.

Sony’s Built-in Electronically Controlled Variable ND Filter

The built-in electronic variable ND filter allows seamless ND adjustment. An Auto ND function keeps exposure constant by automatically adjusting the ND filter to match changing light. Remote control is also possible, allowing exposure control at a distance from the camera.


​Versatile Interfaces for Various Production Workflows

The FR7 is built to integrate and adapt to many workflow scenarios, from simple plug and play to more complex high-end productions, thanks to a comprehensive selection of video inputs and outputs, IP streaming, power supply, and synchronization with other devices.

Internal XAVC Recording and External RAW Output

A rare feature in a PTZ camera, the FR7 also features dual media slots that support CFexpress Type A and SDXC memory cards. The ability to record high-quality XAVC-I footage with metadata makes the FR7 an excellent choice for a wide variety of video production applications.

CFexpress Type A cards are particularly well suited to high bitrate 4K movie production, with high-speed write capability that ensures stable recording of high volume, high frame rate data. Simultaneous recording, relay recording, interval recording, and proxy recording are also supported. The SDI output can deliver a 16-bit RAW signal to a compatible external recorder (sold separately).

Professional Video and Audio Interface 

HDMI Type A and 12G-SDI connectors are provided for video output as well as optical output*10 for long transmission.

The AUDIO IN (XLR type 5-pin) connector will receive signal from an external microphone or audio device. AUDIO CH-1 and CH-2 use a single connector.

Ethernet Connectivity

Camera control, video and audio transfer, and power supply can also be carried out via a single LAN cable, simplifying cabling requirements.

The FR7 LAN (network) connector supports a variety of streaming protocols, including RTSP, SRT and NDI ® |HX*11, perfect for working in an IP based environment.

The FR7 can be powered from an external PoE++ (Power over Ethernet Plus Plus)*12 device via a standard network cable, eliminating the need for separate power supply cabling.

Multicamera Production Synchronization

The Timecode IN connector receives timecode for synchronization with an external device, while the GENLOCK receives synchronization signals in multi camera setups.

Additionally, red/green tally lights are provided on the camera’s side panels, allowing performers and staff to easily identify the on-air and preview cameras in multi camera setups in studio or on location. ​

Pricing and Availability

The new FR7 will be available in November 2022 for approximately $9699.99 USD and $12,399.99 CAD. The FR7K, which includes the FR7 and SELP28135G lens, will be available for $12,199.99 USD and $15,699.99CAD while the CIB-PCM1 ceiling bracket will be available for $119.99 USD and $159.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

The FR7 will be showcased for the first time on Sony’s booth at IBC 2022 in Amsterdam from September 9th to 12th. A product video on the new FR7 can be viewed HERE. To see it in action, visit HERE.

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new FR7 as well as Sony’s other imaging products can be found at www.sonycine.com a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony Cinema Line.

###

About Sony Electronics Inc.

Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information.

Notes:

*1 As of Sept 6th. 2022 product announcement, compared to cameras with integrated pan/tilt mounts, Sony survey.

*2 When using the SEL100400GM, SEL200600G, SEL400F28GM, and SEL600F40GM, please use after fixing the pan/tilt with the locking mechanism of the camera.

*3 S-Log3 recording. Sony measurement.

*4 Custom mode.

*5 SEL20TC teleconverter is required.

*6 10% crop, approximately.

*7 Sold separately.

*8 RM-IP500 software version 2.2 or later required.

*9 Update in early of 2023.

*10 Optical output requires SFP+ module (sold separately).

*11 NDI® is a registered trademark of NewTek, Inc. NDI®|HX is a technology of NewTek, Inc. An NDI®|HX Upgrade must be purchased from NewTek.

*12 Conforms to IEEE802.3bt (Type 4, Class 8). Internal recording and playback are not available when PoE++ power is used.

*13 Within the Cinema Line series. As of September 2022.

 

Curiosity: The Yodobashi Japanese store says all their best 10 sold lenses were for E-mount

The big Japanese store Yodobashi shared the ranking of their best selling lenses (period August 16 to August 31, 2022). And as you can see those are ALL E-mount lenses:

No. 1 Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
No. 2 Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art (E mount)
No. 3 Tamron 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (E-mount)
No.4 Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG DN | Art (E-mount)
No.5 Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II
No.6
Sigma 28 -70mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary (E mount)
No. 7 Sony FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G
No. 8 Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (E mount)
No. 9 Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM
No. 10 Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary (E mount)

Tamron 50-400mm review by SonyAlphaBlog

Preorders: Tamron 50-40mm FE at BHphoto, Adorama. in EU at Fotokoch, FotoErhardt, Calumet, WexUK.

SonyAlphaBlog reviewed the new lens and concluded:

Compared to the Tamron:

  • Sony E 70-350mm F4.5-6.3 G OSS : 900 Euros, lighter , less range less good optically
  • Sony FE 100-400mm GM OSS F4.5-F5.6 (2900 euros) : Similar Sharpness performances but better AF for erratic movements and compatible with TC1.4 TC2.0 and 30fps of the A1, more buttons for direct controls , but more heavy and pricy. Less versatile as 100mm is often too long for some portraits or street photography
  • Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary (1000 euros). Sharpness is less good , AF is less good

When to choose the Sony : If you are only shooting fast sports with very complex movements and also need 30fps or needs very precise smooth zooming, or need the TC 1.4 or TC2

In all other cases the Tamron optical and AF performances being very close to the Sony and offering unique versatility for Portrait, street, travel with its zoom range of 50-100mm

The Sigma should be chosen only for lower Mpix camera (24/33Mpix) and if you are on a limited budget