The University of North Texas has upgraded its media production program with Sony FX6 cinema cameras and HXR-NX800 handheld camcorders, giving undergraduate and graduate students access to professional production equipment used in the film and broadcast industry.
The university selected the HXR-NX800 for introductory film production courses and the FX6 for intermediate and graduate-level classes. According to Brandon Gaesser, assistant professor in the university’s Department of Media Arts, the cameras were chosen to help prepare students for entry-level production roles while providing equipment that is ready to use without requiring additional accessories.
Gaesser said the consistent menu structure and controls across Sony’s camera lineup have made it easier for students to transition between models. Graduate students trained on the FX6 also help teach introductory courses using the NX800, allowing students to become familiar with Sony’s camera ecosystem as they advance through the program.
“The students’ level of work has really increased substantially. They love these cameras, and so do we,” Gaesser said. He added that the FX6’s image quality and performance allow students to focus more on composition and storytelling while producing documentary and narrative projects.
