Sony PXW FX9 Review for Professional Filmmaking 

When the Sony PXW FX9 was released it was largely compared to the Sony FS7 as an upgrade from that model which had been launched some 5 years prior. Since Sony released the FX9 a bit over a year ago, it’s become a choice piece of equipment for Team Beverly Boy. In this Sony PXW FX9 review we’re breaking down all the details of this workhorse cinematic camera. One that’s become so incredibly popular among our worldwide cinematography team. As well as many others!

Let’s Talk About Autofocus

Okay, you’re probably thinking – why? But really, although autofocus isn’t really our main focus when it comes to features or benefits in a camera.

The advances that Sony made in the dedicated autofocus technology cannot be overlooked and must be talked about!

The FX9, when paired with the right glass lenses, has the power to deliver amazingly accurate and rapid autofocus.

It’s Automatic

In fact, although we’re seeing image sensors increase in size along with resolutions? We’re happy to say that the FX9 delivers substantially improved autofocus!

Which is really great since manual focus does become a bit more complicated under these conditions.

Face Tracking

The face tracking autofocus is super accurate and ultra fast. In fact, in “Face Only Mode” you’ll find that the focus is on the subject’s face and stays there even if the face leaves the frame.

The camera will not refocus on the background in this mode. Instead, the FX9 keeps searching for the subject’s face again. As soon as it appears, it immediately tracks and keeps focus.

Want the focus to adjust to the background when your subject moves out of the frame? All you have to do is switch to the Priority AF and you’ll get the desired results.

The Cons

The only real struggle with the autofocus, particularly with the face, is that sometimes in lower light filming scenarios there will be a struggle if the face is dark.

Autofocus might struggle to match the face in a dark light, dark face, bright background situation.

Or if there are multiple faces within the frame making it challenging for the camera to establish who’s who and where to focus, otherwise it’s incredibly powerful and accurate.

Notable Features

In our Sony PXW FX9 review we think it’s important to address some of the most notable and valuable features of this workhorse.

Of course, the 4K picture quality, which is absolutely stunning, is important to note.

This digital camera certainly delivers top quality footage that’s in line with what you would expect from a camera twice as much as it or more. 

Additionally, we love the:

• Amazingly shallow depth of field.
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• CMOS image sensor which is back-illuminated and provides powerful low-light capabilities.
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• Wide-angle view that delivers exceptional quality and features variable ND. Which is actually the fullest strength of variable ND available from a camera within its type and lineup.
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• Pristine image processing and the ability to capture every last detail in a variety of settings.

S-Cinetone Technology

The FX9 features an amazing cinematic color that’s actually similar in quality and feature to the VENICE which features S-Cinetone technology.

This means that the camera is capable of producing rich mid-range colors, and lifelike facial tones. You’ll even accomplish vivid colors with no correction required.

So just imagine the outcome when you take it to the next level in post! The color science in VENICE certainly provides exceptional bake-in quality for independent filmmakers.

So there’s no need to color grade in post just save yourself a step and get it nearly identical to your counterparts in production.

Exceptional Quality

The color science technology that was introduced by Sony with the VENICE delivers exceptional quality visuals when it comes to skin tones and natural images.

When filming in custom mode you’ll find that S-Cinetone provides a lot of value without requiring post-production color grading. Saving substantial time in post!

Long Day Comfort

We all know that a day on the set can be taxing, but that doesn’t mean you have to just accept that the equipment and tools you use are going to cause added wear and tear on your body.

Sure, cinematographers are frequently prepared for the hard work. But if you’re going to shoot for 12 hours straight, you might as well have some comfort in mind and the Sony FX9 delivers! 

The FX9 features compatibility to shoot from any position with 380 capabilities. And at just 4.4 pounds before adding accessories? You’ll be amazed at how light this cinematic camera is.

Adjustments

You can easily adjust the control arm without any tools needed on set. And the light body and frame is certainly a welcome addition when you’re expecting to be on set for a long day or well into the night. 

The FX9 is even sealed so it’s relatively protected from the elements. It works at a low heat so it doesn’t get hot after long production hours.

And it’s moderately protected from water damage should you be outside in the raid or shooting in cold weather where snow is possible.

Electronic Variable ND Filters

Probably one of the best features for us to mention in our Sony PXW FX9 review is the electronic variable ND filters.

The variable ND filter technology literally allows the camera to change from three common presets that most cameras have to a variable.

Which allows you to choose the absolute perfect amount of ND filtration up to 7 stops with ease. It’s a truly amazing feature that will change the way you shoot for sure!

The Takeaway

All in all, in our Sony PXW FX9 review all we can really say is – we love this workhorse!

This is our chosen camera for a variety of filmmaking projects. And it’s our go-to both on set and off since it was launched nearly two years ago.

If you’re considering the FX9 or you’re wondering whether it’s worth the investment? In terms of how Team Beverly Boy feels about it, you can’t go wrong!