As more and more advanced video recording features are packed into compact cameras the problem of overheating will become more and more common.
Sony is one brand that has had some issues with heat already. Even the latest models – outside some of the video-specific cameras with integrated fans – have struggles when in their top recording modes and less-than-ideal external environments.
If you want to learn some tricks about how to prevent overheating with a Sony camera, such as the a7 IV, a7S III, or FX3, then this neat guide from filmmaker Matt WhoisMatt Johnson might be right for you.
Technique 1: Temperature Setting “High”
Overheating is a result of the camera’s internal thermometer reading too high and shutting down the system to let it cool down. Sony put in safety for this, but if you want to push the camera to its limits they did add a menu item called “Auto Power OFF Temp.”
Image Credit: Sony
By changing this from Standard to High you can prevent the camera from shutting down until it gets hotter and that might just do it for you.
Most newer Sony cameras offer this option. Try it out and see if that fixes your main overheating issues.
Technique 2: Pull Out the Rear Screen
For situations where environmental heat might be contributing to your camera’s overheating issues, you might need to employ some other solutions.
A simple option is to open up the rear screen as well as any of the memory card and port doors on the side of the camera. This should let the camera dissipate heat a little better and give you longer recording times.
Image Credit: Sony
A lot of heat is generated in the area around the screen and by pulling it out you can get some heat away from the camera.
Technique 3: Accessories
Other ways to prevent overheating will rely on some accessories. A battery grip is a good place to start for a7 series cameras since batteries are a big source of heat. The grip will move the batteries away from the main body and give you extended shooting times.
Image Credit: Sony
Similar to a battery grip, you can pick up an external power option – like an AC adapter or V-mount battery – and use that in combination with a dummy battery. The dummy battery slots into the camera and keeps the bigger, heat-generating battery pack away.
DIY Camera Shade
When the sun is beating down on the camera it’ll heat up the camera externally. To keep it cool you’ll want to do what you would do if you were getting hot—by finding some shade.
You can make a sun shade for practically no cost with just a 1/4”-20 cold shoe adapter and some cardboard or foam board. Cut it to size, pop it through the screw and now you can mount it to your camera.
Do you have any problems with overheating?
[source: Matt WhoisMatt Johnson]
Order Links:
- Sony a7S III Mirrorless Camera (B&H, Amazon)
- Sony FX3 Cinema Camera (B&H, Amazon)
- Sony a7 IV Mirrorless Camera (B&H, Amazon)
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
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