Sony FX5

The Sony FX5 is a compact full-frame cinema camera that sits between the FX3 and larger production cameras such as the FX6 and FX9 in Sony’s range. It combines a newly developed stacked sensor, excellent low-light performance and professional recording options in a small body that’s practical for everything from documentary and commercial work to drama and independent film production.

If you’re looking for a Sony FX5 hire option that offers more control over the image and recording workflow than a typical compact camera, the FX5 is worth considering. Its biggest advantage is that it brings features such as internal RAW recording and Open Gate capture into a body that remains relatively easy to rig and operate.

Fully kitted up

XLR Top Handle and Sound Box is a must-have in our opinion, so our kits will always have the XLR top handle.
Whilst the FX5 out-of-the-box lacks some key parts for usabilty and for ergonomics, our kits come with the extras to make it work in a wide range of scenarios.
OLED Viewfinder improves on the LCD display on the back of the camera, giving much clearer view. Along with the Offset Arm for the OLED viewfinder gives more options for ergonomically positioning the viewfinder in the best position
Tilta Camera Cage gives mounting positions in multiple positions around the body, for monitors and accessories

A new approach to image quality

At the heart of the FX5 is a full-frame, stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor, paired with Sony’s BIONZ XR2 processor and integrated AI processing. Sony rates the camera at over 15 stops of dynamic range when shooting in S-Log3, giving you plenty of room to work with highlights and shadows in post-production.

The camera also offers three base ISO settings of 800, 4000 and 12800, helping you get the best from the sensor in different lighting conditions. This is particularly useful for documentary work, available-light shooting and productions where you don’t always have the time or resources to light every scene from scratch.

Internal RAW recording and Open Gate

One of the biggest differences between the FX5 and older cameras in this class is its internal 16-bit scene-linear X-OCN recording. Rather than needing an external RAW recorder, you can capture this format directly in-camera, keeping the rig simpler while retaining considerable flexibility for colour grading.

The FX5 also introduces Open Gate recording to Sony’s FX series. Using the full sensor area in a 3:2 format gives you more freedom to reframe footage in post, whether you’re delivering widescreen films, vertical content or multiple versions of the same production.

Key recording features include:

• Full-frame 5K Open Gate recording up to 60fps
• 4K recording up to 120fps
• Internal 16-bit X-OCN RAW recording
• S-Log3 and over 15 stops of rated dynamic range
• Three base ISO settings for different lighting conditions

Autofocus and everyday operation

Sony’s autofocus has become an important part of its cinema camera range, particularly for documentary, corporate and observational work. The FX5 uses Fast Hybrid AF with up to 759 phase-detection points and AI-based subject recognition, including eye tracking for people, animals and birds.

This can be useful when working quickly, filming moving subjects or operating without a dedicated focus puller. You still have the option of working manually with cinema lenses and a follow focus when the shot requires more precise control.

The compact body also makes the FX5 adaptable to different shooting styles. It can be built up for a more conventional cinema setup, stripped down for handheld work or configured for gimbal use. Sony’s E-Mount gives you access to its own lenses, including the G Master range, as well as a wide selection of adapted EF and PL-mount options where the appropriate adapter and camera configuration allow.

How does it compare with the FX3 and FX6?

The FX3 remains a very good option when keeping the camera small, light and affordable is the main priority. The FX6 adds practical production features such as built-in electronic ND filters and dedicated professional connections.

The FX5 takes a different approach, offering internal X-OCN recording, Open Gate capture and a newer sensor platform. It’s particularly interesting for productions that want a compact camera but need more flexibility over recording formats and reframing in post-production.

That doesn’t mean it’s automatically the right choice for every shoot. If you mainly need straightforward 4K recording, the FX3 or FX6 may still be a better fit depending on how you work. For projects where RAW recording, Open Gate and grading flexibility matter, the FX5 offers a more advanced set of tools.

Sony FX5 camera hire from Media Dog Hire

At Media Dog Hire, we supply camera packages for a wide range of productions, from small independent shoots to professional television, commercial and film work. We can help configure an FX5 package around your requirements, whether you need a lightweight setup for handheld or gimbal work, or a more complete rig with monitoring, wireless video, lenses, power and accessories.

We’re based in Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow, with delivery available throughout the UK.

If you’re looking for FX5 hire for an upcoming production, get in touch to discuss availability, recording media and the accessories you’ll need for your shoot.