“The F35 complements the F23, with both addressing very distinct production environments and applications,” said Rob Willox, director of Sony Electronics’ content-creation group. “We realize that many customers prefer a 35mm large-format sensor, while others want the 2/3-inch sensor size of the F23. As with all our camera technologies, we want to give end users their choice of production tools.”

The new camera incorporates many of the F23’s ergonomics and “film-style” design elements. For example, Sony ¹s SRW-1 digital recorder will dock directly to the top or to the tail of the new system, eliminating the need for cumbersome cable handling between the camera and recorder. The camera body will also be compatible with a variety of film camera accessories, including bridge plates, matte boxes and follow-focus units.

The new camera adds several new features, many the direct result of feedback from production professionals.

Dynamic range is extended to from 700 percent to 800 percent, and an improved signal-to-noise ratio allows users to obtain more “quiet” black, even during dark scenes.

The new camera can capture RGB, 4:4:4 1080/50P content, making it ideal for RGB composition of visual effects work. Its variable frame rate capability allows users to capture and record images from 1fps to 50fps. The depth of field on the new camera is equal to that of a film camera, and can easily be made shallower or deeper. The adoption of a PL mount enables the F35 to use the vast majority of existing 35mm motion-picture camera optics, including specialty lenses such as fish eye, swing shift and baby periscope.

Pre-set S-log Gamma delivers wide latitude, retaining details of sunlit areas and shadows, as well as maintaining tonal gradation of night sky
scenes.

The F35 camera will be available late in 2008, with suggested list pricing to be announced.