Sony has released firmware Version 5.00 for their a7S III. While firmware updates can sometimes be minor maintenance releases, this one requires attention for two reasons: it changes the update method, and it resets certain camera settings during installation. If you’re using the a7S III professionally, this is not something to install casually shortly before a shoot. Let’s look at what’s actually changing and what you need to know before updating. The Sony a7S III has been a core part of the company’s video-focused mirrorless lineup for several years. Our coverage has included a review with low-light sample footage and a CineD Lab Test. Firmware Version 5.00 does not alter its core recording formats or performance characteristics, but it introduces workflow changes and functional additions. a7S III – Image credit: Sony Firmware v5.00 – overview Firmware Ver. 5.00 introduces updates across autofocus customization, display behavior, USB connectivity, authentication features, and stability improvements. Among the more interesting changes is the expanded autofocus configuration. Sony adds Spot: XL, along with three custom focus area presets under both the Focus Area and Tracking menus. That means you can define and store specific AF behaviors instead of rebuilding them mid-shoot. The shooting information display now adapts to both horizontal and vertical orientations. If you’re delivering vertical content, that’s simply easier to work with. There’s also a small but useful change: when recording in simultaneous or relay modes, the camera can now show the remaining capacity of both media cards. USB streaming support has been...
Published By: CineD - Today