Broadleys Pro Advice For Filmmakers Series Presents: Sony Burano Camera Review

Our Virtual Production Producer, Kieran Lowley, was recently commissioned by Sony to create a short Sci-Fi film using their new BURANO camera. Broadley played a key role in supporting Kieran and his co-director, Isobel Drane, from Red Robin Films, by providing additional photography services and VFX editing facilities.

During the process, Kieran became thoroughly acquainted with the Burano, and here’s what he discovered.?

The Sony Burano is the latest addition to Sony’s cinema camera lineup, bridging the gap between cinema and documentary cameras with a compact yet powerful design. Its impressive range of features positions it as a high-end cinema camera, equipped with most of the flagship Venice 2’s premium capabilities.

The camera boasts an 8.6K full-frame sensor, a 16-bit internal X-OCN LT RAW codec, exceptional Optical Stabilization, and built-in ND filters, all of which allow it to capture breathtaking images across various shooting environments. While the Burano matches the Venice 2’s 8.6K resolution, its maximum codec quality (X-OCN LT) is slightly below that of the Venice 2’s X-OCN XT. However, the price difference makes the Burano a more accessible option for those seeking cinematic quality without the steep cost. Additionally, at only 2.9kg, its lightweight design allows operators to focus on getting the perfect shot, rather than the strain on their back. During our film shoot, the Burano’s portability enabled our operators to maneuver easily in tight spaces, which was invaluable.

When it comes to image quality, especially in relation to Visual Effects pipelines, the Burano truly shines. The 8.6K 16-bit X-OCN LT image offers incredible flexibility in post-production, and for our project, we put the camera to the test. One of the standout sequences involved a complex three-shot, fully zero-gravity scene, which pushed the camera’s capabilities. The workflow included full rotoscoping, digital set extensions, hair simulation, and animated props—all requiring seamless compositing to create a believable final image. Thanks to the Burano’s clean, sharp colors and extensive detail, we achieved stunning results that felt like authentic Zero-G environments.?

The Burano is also well-suited for Virtual Production (VP), equipped with built-in genlock ports, which are essential in the rapidly growing VP landscape. For our Sci-Fi film?Hestia, we quickly and efficiently rigged the Burano for VP, and its light weight helped balance the additional rigging of tracking units and cables required for the shoot.

However, the Burano does have one minor drawback: a faint rolling shutter. Clocking in at 18.4ms, high-speed movements or rapid handheld shots may exhibit a slight rolling shutter effect, appearing as wavy lines in the image. While this is not a dealbreaker for most productions, it’s something to keep in mind when planning high-speed or dynamic shots.?

In summary, the Sony Burano offers an impressive combination of features, from its lightweight design and built-in ND filters to its VP-ready genlock ports and stunning image quality. For a price of around ￡25,000, the Burano delivers exceptional value, bringing cinematic quality within reach.