FR7

Working closely with the creative community of filmmakers, Sony continues to develop new devices to explore the possibilities of visual storytelling. The FR7 is one such product. Featuring a powerful full-frame image sensor and built-in pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) capability, this innovative interchangeable lens camera is designed to deliver high-quality footage with cinematic expression, even on live productions. The sophisticated PTZ function uses technical components from robotics for flexible and fluid camera movements and it can be fully controlled remotely. This allows the camera to be positioned for special perspectives, for example on the ceiling or other hard-to-reach places, and then controlled easily and precisely from a distance via a specially developed web application using a web browser on a tablet or computer. Throughout the design process, the focus was on providing the best possible user experience – from setting up the camera to changing lenses and remote control – to maximise work efficiency. Stripped down to the very essentials, the design focuses on the camera block and the E-mount system for the lenses, so that the shape of the FR7 clearly expresses its character as an interchangeable lens camera with PTZ function. In addition, the side arms have been trimmed to the point where the shape of the internal gear defines the contour, creating an iconic disc shape that defines the appearance of the product. The asymmetrical design allows for efficient lens changes at the shooting site. Rails for adjusting the longitudinal position, a locking mechanism and lever for fixing the lens have all been positioned on the left side. At the same time, the left arm has been kept as small as possible so that it does not interfere when changing lenses. The jury said: “As a camera with a full-frame image sensor, PTZ functionality and the possibility to change lenses, the FR7 expands the expression possibilities of filmmakers and meets high demands on reliability and user-friendliness. In addition, the camera impresses with its extremely reduced and yet very elegant appearance, which directs the focus to the function”.