I never seem to leave good enough alone, but after 5 years with the FX3, I’ve found several rigs that have become my go-to setups. From a minimal under-the-radar rig, to larger production shoulder rigs, here are three of my favourites FX3 rigs.
Before we get started, my parameters for use:
1. Aging eyes want to see a larger monitor.
2. Control Freak: I want to be able to control my camera from my monitor – from touch focus to changing zoom (really useful for top-down cameras), this option has given me more freedom than ever.
3. Works for the intended shoot, but also quickly adaptable. Sometimes you want to fly under the radar and don’t need a big rig. Other times I want to be able to comfortable hold at eye-height, so a shoulder rig is a better option.
4. Minimize points of failure. This one means finding the right cage and cables that will reduce potential breakage and failure.
The best camera cage for the FX3:
I’ve tried four different cages, and prefer this half-cage version. I don’t use any hawklock specific attachements, but love the lightweight body that gives me enough attachement options to make me happy.
To prevent damage to my USB-C cable (used to either power or control my cameras), and also the micro-USB cable for timecode sync, I always use this compatible Smallrig multi-cable clamp. It’s too easy to bump a cable and lose connection, and having this clamp gives me a little bit of peace of mind. NOTE: I’ve lost a screw as it’s come undone during a literal run-and-gun production, so make sure to check that the screws are secure every so often on busy shoots.
A. MINIMALIST RIG: Using my iPhone as a monitor and Control with Sony’s Monitor and Control iOS App
This Smallrig push-button Rotating NATO Side Handle is lighter than others and is super-convenient to position your monitor at any viewing angle. Having the monitor atop of it allows me to see it even when extending the camera far overhead.
The BRDRC Cold Shoe Phone Mount Holder is the thinnest magsafe camera mount I’ve found. I’ve tried others from bigger brands, but they were not as strong or light or thin. I love it so much I own two – one for my camera rig and one I use atop a selfie stick to record BTS.
The UGREEN 60W PD USB C Cable with one Right Angle is the best I’ve found for powering or controlling my camera. NOTE: I purchase the 1.5′ version, but couldn’t find a link to it. But this is exactly the same, just longer. I own four of them I like them so much, and have them on every camera and an extra for charging.
B. MEDIUM HANDHELD RIG: 7″ Monitor with Camera Control
I have two 7″ monitors with camera control for the Sony FX3. I like both for different reasons.
There’s lots to love about the Portkeys LH7C 7″ 1000nits Camera Field Monitor Wired Control for the FX3. It’s super lightweight (plastic, but hey: sometimes you don’t need a bulletproof option), includes an innovative wire that reduces cable clutter (minimialist win!), and has provem to be a reliable and easy-to-use camera control for the FX3. I also love that the touch-to-focus box STAYS on the screen when tracking, allowing me to confirm what the camera is tracking. This has been my go-to monitor when I don’t need the best screen or wireless transmission.
When the production level requires the best, the Accsoon CineView M7 Pro 7inch Camera Monitor&Wireless Video Transmitter Receiver is up for the task. With the best quality screen I’ve ever used on-camera, and the best focus peaking that lets me confirm focus without getting in the way, this monitor not only allows me full camera control of my FX3, but is also a transmitter and receiver!! I an incredible triple thread: the best 7″ monitor I’ve ever used, with camera control for my FX3, and a wireless transmitter or receiver. I hand my iPad to my producer and with the Accsoon SEE app installed, it’s a great wireless option without the fuss. With a solid aluminum case, it gives confidence on the largest of stages, and I’ve come to love this monitor that gives so much. It might seeem expensive, but really its punching well above its price point when considering how much it does and what it replaces. Not having to rig and power yet another transmitter is freeing. Having on-monitor camera controls and record confirmation is just so nice, I don’t think I can go back to using monitors that don’t give camera control. Highly recommended.
SMALLRIG Side Handle Extension Adapter
The SMALLRIG Foldable V Mount Battery Plate Kit Pro is a great addition to my kit to allow for longer run times and easy battery management. I also like the LCD protector, though you have to remember to swing out your screen before adjusting the pivot.
TheNEEWER Smart Mini V Mount Battery NEEWER APP Control, 6800mAh 99Wh 14.5V with 100W PD Fast Charging is V-Mount of choice. With 2 USBC PD ports, 100W fast charging, DC plugs and D-Tap, it can power most anything you can throw at it. I never use the app connectivity, but love the value and reliability over the years.
This Coiled 5.5mm x 2.1mm DC Cable works great for powering both monitor options via my recommended V-Mount above. Not the sexiest thing, but these have been reliable for years, and the right-angle ends are low profile, which I prefer.
I often use this SMALLRIG Side Handle Extension Adapter when using heavier lenses, like my favourite, the Sony 24-70 GM II. I find it better balances the rig when the left handle is moved a touch forward.
If you need to move your monitor to the left to allow for a greater tilt range, then this little Nitze Camera Magic Arm will do the trick. With locating pins and a double socket system, magic arms like this are flexible problem solvers.
If you prefer a stiffer mounting option without swivel, this Monitor Mount with Locating Pins is great.
C. SONY FX3 SHOULDER RIG
Not the sexiest or most expensive option, I really love the rubber handles of this simple SMALLRIG shoulder rig.
This Mini V Mount Battery Plate does the job and can be placed on the end or atop the shoulder pad.
I remove the 1/4 screw from this SmallRig 15mm Rod Clamp and attach either the magic arm or tilt arm above to mount my monitor near the left handle of my shoulder rig. This allows the monitor’s tilt to align with the grip, making a very efficient system for quickly changing handling and viewing angles from overhead, to mid and low heights.
CONCLUSION.
I will inevitably change my Camera rigging setups, but for now, these are some of my favourite setups. They’re veratile enough to use in any scenario, and can accomodate the Sony top handle with using mics like my favourite Sennheiser MKH416 Super-Cardioid Shotgun Microphone.
But what’s a piece of gear you can’t live without? I’m always looking for ways to improve, so don’t be shy and we can all grow together!
Thanks for reading and I hope you’ve found a little something that will help you on your next shoot.
God bless!
