Sony announced that Reuters selected Alpha and XDCAM cameras along with G Master lenses and Sony audio gear to equip its video journalists around the world.
“This investment from Reuters is a testament to the long-standing relationship between Reuters and Sony, powered by Sony’s in-depth knowledge of on the terrain requirement from journalists and Reuters mission to provide timely and quality news. Sony’s Media Backbone Hive is already in use at Reuters as its main multi-platform news production system,” Sony says.
Reuters video journalists will be using a7S III and the PXW-Z280 as their main shooting kit, paired with UWP-D wireless audio. The a7S III was selected as it is a strong combination of offering high video quality mixed with a compact form factor.
“In this instance, the advanced autofocus performance for hybrid use, together with its outstanding low light performance were key features in Reuters’ decision making. Sony’s E-Mount strategy will also provide journalists with the flexibility to capture images in their truest form, when perfectly paired with the vast options of Sony lenses of their choosing,” Sony says.
Sony’s PXW-Z280 is a more traditional video camera and is specialized for direct-to-air broadcasting. It can also use Sony’s Instant HDR workflow which eliminates the need for color grading, allowing videographers to send content out faster.
“Both cameras benefit for the connectivity features needed to easily connect to the cloud for seamless and reliable content transfer, from the capture location back to the remote broadcast unit, particularly critical for news gathering, with its emphasis on speed,” Sony adds.
While the partnership was only announced today, the cameras and associated equipment started shipping out to 23 global Reuters locations starting in April.
The move is similar to the move Gannett and USA Today made in 2021 to name Sony as the exclusive camera provider of its more than 250 national and local media outlets. While the Reuters announcement covers a much larger area (global versus just US-based), it is only for video capture and the announcement lacks the word “exclusive,” meaning it may be possible for video journalists to augment the Sony kit with other equipment.