Are you filming with the Sony FX3 and want crystal-clear video without noise? Then it’s time to explore Cine EI — a powerful feature that unlocks your camera's full potential. In this blog, we explain what Cine EI is, how it works, and why it's essential for anyone serious about professional filmmaking with the FX3.
What Is Cine EI on the Sony FX3?
Cine EI (Exposure Index) is an advanced recording mode designed to get the most out of your Sony FX3 sensor. Once activated, the camera automatically switches to S-Log3 and sets a fixed base ISO of either 800 or 12,800, depending on the lighting conditions. This gives you:
- Maximum dynamic range
- Natural color rendering
- Minimal image noise
Cine EI allows you to shoot with optimal sensor settings for high-end results.
Why Overexpose When Filming in S-Log3?
Many filmmakers intentionally overexpose their S-Log3 footage by 1 to 2 stops to preserve shadow detail. The downside? Your on-screen image may look blown out without correction. Cine EI fixes this by letting you see a corrected preview while still recording the raw overexposed data.
How Cine EI Works in Practice
With Cine EI, you can adjust the Exposure Index (EI) without affecting your actual recording settings. For example:
- Your base ISO is 800
- You set the EI to 200 (2 stops lower)
- The image on your monitor looks correctly exposed, while the camera still records at ISO 800
This way, you can accurately adjust shutter speed, aperture, or ND filters based on a visually corrected image — ideal for dynamic shooting environments.
Cine EI in Post-Production
In post-production, your footage will appear 1–2 stops overexposed, just as recorded. But that’s expected. You simply bring down the exposure during color grading, and you get:
- Perfectly exposed shots
- Clean shadows and highlights
- Professional-level image quality
The secret? Cine EI gives you extra headroom in both highlights and shadows, making your footage highly flexible for grading.
Want to Rent the Sony FX3 with Cine EI? Go with Budgetcam
Ready to try Cine EI on the Sony FX3 for yourself? At Budgetcam, you can rent this powerful cinema camera with ease — ideal for short films, commercials, documentaries, or weddings. Enjoy:
- Competitive rental rates
- Flexible pick-up and return options
- Expert advice at the counter
Test the Sony FX3 with Cine EI. Rent it today at Budgetcam and shoot like a pro.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Cine EI?
Cine EI is a pro-level exposure tool on Sony cameras like the FX3, allowing you to adjust preview brightness without affecting your recorded footage.
Why use Cine EI when filming?
It gives you cleaner shadows, better color grading flexibility, and an accurate preview even when shooting overexposed in S-Log3.
Can beginners use Cine EI?
Yes — while some knowledge of Log profiles and color grading helps, the feature is designed to simplify exposure for all levels of filmmakers.
