With the ALEXA 265, ARRI offers shooters a compact and lightweight large-format camera option, one that is a third of the size of their flagship 65mm cinema camera, the ALEXA 65.
This new model maintains the performance, color science, and C4 Workflow that ARRI users expect, positioning itself as a potential favorite for filmmakers seeking a robust run-and-gun platform.
Image Credit – ARRI
Building on the compact design of the ARRI 35, the ALEXA 265 captures 6.5K video images with an impressive 15 stops of dynamic range.
It features the familiar LogC4 workflow and employs the REVEAL color science along with a state-of-the-art new filter system.
With an ISO sensitivity of 6500 ISO, the ALEXA 265 delivers crisper blacks, better contrast, and a lower noise floor compared to previous models.
ARRI has also redesigned the ALEXA circuitry to make the camera faster to setup and boot to full power, so shooters can start capturing faster, reducing on-set time.
The camera supports 3D LUTs and can record ARRIRAW in-camera using Codex Compact Drives, which are also found in other ARRI models.
This allows for a reduction in file sizes of up to 40% without compromising resolution or sharpness while maintaining consistent color accuracy.
Featuring a new filter cartridge system, the ALEXA 265 includes special filter trays that slide in front of the image sensor, offering options from zero to ND2.7 in single-stop increments.
ARRI plans to introduce additional creative filter options as designs are finalized.
The filter tray reads an encoded chip that provides all filter metadata, transferring that information to the camera for display on the interface and recording to the original camera files for post-production workflows.
All recorded images undergo processing in-camera using ARRI’s REVEAL Color Science, ensuring accurate colors and skin tones with a natural saturation that aligns with human perception.
Image Credit – ARRI
Even challenging color shades appear true to life, supporting seamless color grading across multiple ALEXA cameras.
The ALEXA 265’s compact footprint stands out as a remarkable feature for a 65mm format cinema camera.
Its design facilitates easy mounting to drones, handheld gimbal stabilizers, and other mobile platforms, making it suitable for dynamic shooting environments.
The camera weighs less than one-third of the existing ALEXA 65 platform.
Considering the infrequent use of 65mm in accessible projects, this historic large format is gaining new life, opening opportunities for smaller budgets seeking greater production value.
The ALEXA 265 may well democratize 65mm filmmaking for a broader range of creators.
The camera is scheduled to hit the market for sale or rental beginning in early 2025.
[source: ARRI]
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