Best Sony Settings for Wedding Cinematography

Wedding cinematography is an art—equal parts storytelling and technical mastery. Sony cameras have become favorites among filmmakers for their dynamic range, reliable autofocus, and versatile shooting formats. Whether you’re filming with a Sony FX3, A7 IV, or FX30, understanding the best settings for weddings is crucial to capturing timeless cinematic visuals. In this blog, we decode the most effective Sony camera settings used by professionals for wedding films.

1. Picture Profile: S-Log3 or CineTone?

• S-Log3 (PP8): Best for post-production flexibility. Offers great dynamic range.
  • ISO: Base ISO 800 (FX3), 640 (A7 IV)
  • LUT Preview: Use a Rec709 LUT in-camera for monitoring
  • Tip: Expose to the right (ETTR) to reduce noise
• CineTone (PP11): Beautiful out-of-camera colors, minimal grading needed
  • Great for quick turnarounds
  • Slightly less dynamic range than S-Log3

Recommendation: Use S-Log3 if you plan on color grading extensively. CineTone for fast edits and emotional previews.

2. Frame Rates & Resolutions

• 24fps: Classic cinematic motion for main footage
• 60fps: Slow-motion B-roll, couple portraits, first dances
• 120fps (FX3/FX30): Ultra-smooth slow motion for details like jewelry, tears, or wind-blown veils
• 4K vs 1080p: Stick to 4K for main footage. Use 1080p 120fps only when absolutely necessary for file size.

Pro Tip: Set 24fps as default and toggle to 60fps/120fps using custom buttons for quick access.

3. White Balance & Color Consistency

• Avoid Auto WB. Use Custom White Balance to match ambient lighting.
• Use a grey card or ExpoDisc to dial in accurate color temperatures.
• Stick to Kelvin presets (e.g. 5600K daylight, 3200K tungsten) when shooting fast-paced.

Pro Tip: Always match cameras manually if using multiple Sony bodies.

4. Focus Mode: Lock the Moment

• AF-C (Continuous AF): Use for walking shots, dance floor, ceremony entrances
• AF Transition Speed: Set to 3 for natural focus pulls
• AF Subject Shift Sensitivity: Set to 2–3 to avoid unnecessary focus hunting
• Use Flexible Spot AF or Tracking AF for precise composition

Manual Focus Situations: Vows, tight detail shots, or ring exchange scenes

5. Stabilization & IBIS Settings

• Enable Active SteadyShot for handheld use
• Use Gyro Stabilization in post with Catalyst Browse when gimbal is not feasible
• For gimbal use, turn off IBIS and lens OSS to avoid jitter

Extra Tip: Pre-balance your camera on gimbal with wedding accessories like external mics, lights, etc.

6. Audio Capture: Crystal Clear Vows & Laughs

• Use dual-system recording (on-camera + external recorder like Zoom H5)
• Sony FX3/FX30 XLR handle provides professional audio inputs
• Monitor audio via headphones during speeches & ceremonies
• Lav mics for groom/bride/officiant are a must

7. Custom Buttons & Quick Menus

• Assign Picture Profile, White Balance, and Focus Mode to C1, C2, C3
• Use My Menu tab to save preferred setup for faster prep on wedding day
• Backup with Save/Load Settings to SD card

Infographic: Wedding Video Settings at a Glance

(A chart image can include camera model rows with ideal PP, FPS, ISO, WB, AF Mode)

Bonus Tips:

• Always use dual card slots with simultaneous recording
• Carry ND filters to maintain correct shutter angle outdoors
• Label each wedding shoot with project tags for easy post-processing