CP+2024
Sony has released an update to its smartphone app, the Sony Creators’ App.
This new update enhances three functions: “cloud upload (camera direct),” “USB wired transfer,” and “LUT import.”
Creators’ App is a smartphone app that allows users to easily upload captured videos and still images to the cloud, and will receive a major feature update exactly one year after its first release on February 22, 2023.
Sony Creators’ App Update Allows Direct Cloud Transfer
The previous Sony Creators’ App was realized by uploading images imported to a smartphone to the cloud (Creators’ Cloud).
With this update, it is now possible to upload shooting data directly from the camera to the cloud without going through a smartphone. To upload to the cloud, initial settings must be made on the Creators’ App installed on a smartphone. After configuring the settings, users will be able to communicate directly between the camera and the cloud, regardless of mobile device.
Initial settings include “Wi-Fi settings,” “Camera registration,” which defines the Wi-Fi used by the camera, and “Upload settings,” which sets files to be uploaded, such as still images, videos, or both. It also supports detailed designs such as JPEG, HEIF, RAW for still images, and proxy for videos.
Once set up, the camera will automatically turn on and data will be uploaded to the cloud when it enters the registered Wi-Fi area, regardless of any smartphone. Basically, users will be able to roughly select and upload the captured results without having to specify the files in detail. This feature makes temporary backups and file sharing easier.
Users can also make very detailed settings, such as sending only protected items or setting ratings. The cloud is closer than ever, making it easier to share, view, and edit together.
Cloud upload camera direct is currently only compatible with two models: FX3 and FX30 (compatible with main unit software update released at the time of announcement). The number of compatible cameras models is scheduled to increase gradually, and the α1, α9 III, α7S III, and α7 IV are scheduled to be compatible from March 2024 onwards.
USB-Wired Transfer update
USB wired transfer is a function that allows stable file transfer by connecting the camera and smartphone with a USB cable, without worrying about interference when using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Compatible devices are all camera models that connect to the Creators’ App (no software update required on the camera side). Android and iOS USB Type-C model smartphones are supported (Lightning and USB 2.0 mini-B smartphones are not supported).
Easily import LUTs via Sony Creators’ App
With LUT import, an increasing number of video creators own their favorite LUTs, and once they are uploaded to the cloud, they can easily import them to the camera they use to shoot with their smartphones while out and about. This function is really useful when shooting in LOG modes. Therefore, by sharing the final color tone among the members in advance, sharing it lightly on a smartphone, and putting it into the actual camera before shooting, it becomes possible to concentrate more on the shooting.
Target models are FX3, FX30, α9 III, α7CR, α7C II, ILX-LR1 (no camera software update required).
Introducing cloud services at CP+ 2024 seminars and workshops
Guests to CP+ 2024 can experience the Creators’ App update at the Creators’ Cloud corner of the Sony booth. In the special seminar, photographer Hiroki Inoue will be presenting “A New Era of Animal Photography” (February 23, from 10:20-10:55), where he will introduce the benefits of autofocus and the appeal of the cloud.
At the workshop corner of the Sony booth, video director AKIYA (February 23rd 14:00-14:45) and video creator DIN (February 24th 12:10-12:55, February 25th 13:40) ~ 14:25) and photographer Moronnon (February 23, 10:20~11:05) will introduce workflows that involve the cloud.
There will also be some cloud uploading by photographer/videographer AUXOUT on the presentation stage, which will be held in a separate location from the Sony booth.
