Sony Unveils BURANO, a New Digital Cinema Camera with In-Body Image Stabilization

Sony has announced a new addition to its CineAlta family of high-end digital cinema cameras, the BURANO. The camera features a sensor that matches the color science of the VENICE 2, Sony’s flagship cinema camera, and is designed for single-camera operators and small crews. The BURANO is the world’s first digital cinema camera with a PL-Mount to feature in-body image stabilization, which can correct unwanted camera shake when shooting with an E-mount or PL-mount lens. The camera also has an electronic variable ND filter that allows for easy adjustments in various lighting conditions.

BURANO: A Compact and Powerful Cinema Camera

The BURANO has an 8.6K full-frame sensor that shares most of the specifications of the VENICE 2, enabling it to work alongside that camera in all types of productions. The sensor has a dual base ISO of 800 and 3200 and 16 stops of latitude, producing stunning images even in the most challenging lighting situations. The camera can shoot at full-frame, Super 35, and also has a desqueeze function for anamorphic lenses. It can record at frame rates up to 8K at 30 frames per second, 6K at 60 frames per second or 4K at 120 frames per second.

Sony Unveils BURANO, a New Digital Cinema Camera with In-Body Image Stabilization
Sony Unveils BURANO, a New Digital Cinema Camera with In-Body Image Stabilization

The BURANO has a compact and lightweight body for high mobility, approximately 32mm shorter and 1.4kg lighter than the VENICE 2 camera. The camera is housed in a rugged magnesium chassis, making it suitable for filming in the most demanding environments. The camera and accessory packaging bags materials are made primarily of plant-based cellulose instead of plastic as part of Sony’s efforts to be environmentally conscious. Moreover, a moulded pulp cushion is used on the camera as the cushioning material, thus not using expanded polystyrene.

BURANO: The World’s First Digital Cinema Camera with PL-Mount In-Body Image Stabilization

One of the most innovative features of the BURANO is its in-body image stabilization, which is the first of its kind for a digital cinema camera with a PL-Mount. With a newly developed image stabilization mechanism and control algorithm that leverages the advanced image stabilization technology cultivated in the Alpha series of mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras, the BURANO can correct unwanted camera shake, such as movement from shooting handheld or walking, when using an E-mount or PL-mount lens. This feature can enhance the creative possibilities for filmmakers who want to capture dynamic and immersive shots without compromising on image quality.

BURANO: An Electronic Variable ND Filter for Added Control and Exposure Optimization

Another unique feature of the BURANO is its electronic variable ND filter, which ranges from 0.6 to 2.1, enabling easy adjustments in various lighting conditions. In addition, the electronic variable ND filter allows control of the depth of field with the iris and adjusts to the optimum exposure without changing the depth of field. This feature can help filmmakers achieve their desired look and feel with more flexibility and precision.

BURANO: A Versatile Camera that Supports Fast Hybrid AF and Subject Recognition AF

The BURANO can also be used with E-mount lenses by removing the PL lens mount. When using E-mount lenses, the camera supports fast hybrid AF and subject recognition AF, which can track fast-moving subjects with accuracy and speed. This feature can be useful for filming action scenes or wildlife documentaries, where capturing every moment is crucial.

The BURANO is expected to be available in early 2024. Sony will showcase the camera at IBC 2023, which will take place from September 15 to September 19 in Amsterdam.

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