Sony unveils VENICE Extension System Mini in India

Sony has introduced the VENICE Extension System Mini in India, a compact camera head and sensor unit designed to work with the VENICE 2 digital cinema camera.

The accessory uses the same 8.6K full-frame CMOS sensor as the VENICE 2 8K model, but in a smaller form. Sony says it has a footprint similar to an average smartphone and around 70% less volume than the VENICE Extension System 2.

It is aimed at productions that need a smaller camera head for handheld work, tight rigging, or high-movement sequences. Sony positions it for shots in confined spaces and demanding environments, while keeping image quality consistent with the main VENICE 2 system.

"The VENICE Extension System Mini represents Sony's continued commitment to empowering filmmakers with tools that combine cutting-edge technology and creative flexibility. By bringing the power of the VENICE 2 8K sensor into an ultra-compact form factor, we are enabling creators to capture cinematic imagery in environments and scenarios that were previously challenging or impossible," said Mukesh Srivastava, Head of Imaging Business, Sony India.

Smaller head unit

The camera head measures 63.9 mm by 103.2 mm by 60.2 mm and weighs about 0.54 kg with E-mount. With a PL mount adapter, the weight rises to about 1.05 kg.

The system connects to the VENICE 2 camera body using a thinner cable than earlier versions. The included cable is 4.5 metres long and 7.6 mm in diameter in the E-mount configuration. An optional 12-metre cable is also available for shoots that need greater separation between the camera body and head unit.

The detachable cable gives crews more flexibility for routing and rigging. Sony also lists multiple mounting points on the head for attaching accessories.

ND filter system

The Extension System Mini includes a drop-in ND cartridge system and ships with nine glass neutral density filters, including a clear ND filter developed to match VENICE 2 systems.

When paired with a VENICE 2 body, the camera is designed to recognise each filter's density automatically. Sony says the goal is to keep the system compact while maintaining consistency with the VENICE workflow.

An optional ND Filter Kit, CBK-ND1K, is also listed. Individual filters are not available for separate purchase.

Compatibility and mounts

The Extension System Mini is compatible with both VENICE 2 6K and 8K camera bodies. Sony also says VENICE 2 6K users can capture in 8K resolution when using the new extension system, subject to a VENICE 2 system software update.

The head unit supports E-mount lenses and PL mount lenses via an included adapter. Sony says the adapter includes a Lens Metadata Input port.

The design includes two assignable buttons that can be set for functions such as recording start and a False Colour display toggle. It also includes a 3-pin Fischer output for connecting accessories.

Spatial capture

Sony is also positioning the product for stereoscopic and immersive production workflows. Multiple Extension System Mini units can be placed side by side for stereoscopic imaging, with an inter-axial distance of about 64 mm between sensors in a dual-unit configuration-close to average human interpupillary distance.

The system can also be used in arrays for VR content and for capturing VFX plates, where productions often rely on multi-camera setups and flexible mounting.

Market context

The launch adds to Sony's CineAlta range around the VENICE platform, which it positions at the top end of its digital cinema line-up. Sony says the VENICE series has been used on major film productions including Top Gun: Maverick and Avatar: The Way of Water, as well as titles such as Nickel Boys, The Fire Inside, and A Complete Unknown.

In India, the VENICE Extension System Mini is available now as CBK-3621XS, packaged with a 4.5-metre cable and the ND Filter Kit. Sony is not publishing a list price; pricing is available on request. The optional 12-metre cable is listed as CBK-12C3621.

Srivastava said the smaller form factor and sensor integration were central to the design. "By bringing the power of the VENICE 2 8K sensor into an ultra-compact form factor, we are enabling creators to capture cinematic imagery in environments and scenarios that were previously challenging or impossible," he said.