ITN automates with FR7 PTZ cameras
Leading news and factual content producer has deployed Sony’s full-frame PTZ interchangeable lens cameras for automated operation at its flagship news studio in central London.
- ITN required high quality camera solution for automated operation at its refurbished news studio in Central London
- Four Sony ILME-FR7 Cinema Line full-frame PTZ interchangeable lens cameras
- Camera control via third party automation system
- Cinematic images for studio-based news production
- Ensures consistent picture quality with ITN’s other Sony Cinema Line cameras
The FR7 is unparalleled in its class when it comes to delivering full frame images with a cinematic look and feel.
Jon Roberts
Director of Technology, Production, and Innovation at ITN
Creating quality news for audiences worldwide
ITN is a leading independent media provider, creating news and factual content for major brands, digital platforms, global streamers and international broadcasters.
ITN has recently enhanced production capabilities at its newest studio in central London with the addition of Sony’s ILME-FR7 Cinema Line full-frame PTZ interchangeable lens cameras. The FR7 is now seamlessly integrated at the ITV News studio located at ITN’s premises in Gray’s Inn Road, capturing cinematic quality images and setting new standards for automated broadcasting operations.
Following a comprehensive studio refurbishment, ITN has switched over to using four Sony FR7 cameras since August 2023. Connected with a production control system by Skaarhoj to enable remote operation, the cameras allow ITN newsrooms to capture unparalleled footage for its daily news programming that’s delivered to prominent UK broadcasters such as ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5. The studio notably serves as the backdrop for flagship ITV programmes including ‘Talking Politics’ and ‘Prime Minister’s Questions’ (PMQ).
Cinematic images with exceptional creative flexibility
Its highly sensitive full-frame image sensor allows the FR7 to capture breathtaking 4K HDR images with an exceptional dynamic range of over 15 stops, enhanced by Sony’s acclaimed S-Cinetone™ colour science. Unlike conventional PTZ cameras, the FR7 also offers the flexibility of interchangeable lenses, enabling broadcasters and content creators to tailor the visual aesthetics of their productions to suit any creative need.
“The FR7 is unparalleled in its class when it comes to delivering full frame images with a cinematic look and feel” states Jon Roberts, Director of Technology, Production, and Innovation at ITN.
Roberts also highlights the integration of FR7 footage with other Sony Cinema Line cameras used by ITN, ensuring a consistent visual narrative across all its content. “The FR7’s cinematic output seamlessly complements footage captured by our journalists in the field, enabling us to maintain a cohesive visual identity across all our productions”.
“This studio strikes the perfect balance between operational efficiency and exceptional image quality” comments Rob Turner, Head of Camera Crews, ITV News. “It makes it an ideal setting for programmess reliant on the expertise of commentators such as ‘Talking Politics’ or PMQ.”
