Sony’s HDC-5500 system camera was selected for use by the Vatican in its official coverage of Pope Leo’s first papal appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. With its ability to operate effectively under May 8th’s “complex lighting conditions” in Rome, the HDC-5500’s precise high-frame rate capture and 4K HDR output ensured the coverage reached a worldwide audience in the millions, said Sony.
   

Continuing a commitment to archive the evolving history of the Catholic Church, the Vatican has previously deployed the camera system at high-profile events such as Easter Mass and Christmas celebrations.

Francesco Masci, chief technology officer, Dicastery for Communication, commented, “We have a long-standing relationship with Sony, built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to excellence. Thanks to this partnership—and to the innovation introduced by our Technology Directorate, particularly through the adoption of 4K HDR—we have been able to capture the depth and emotion of extraordinary events, such as the first public appearance of Pope Leo XIV, with unprecedented visual fidelity.

“These results are the fruit of a strong synergy between Sony’s cutting-edge technology and the outstanding professionalism of the Vatican Media production team, whose expertise brings to life the solemnity and significance of every moment we share with the world.”

Norbert Paquet, head of live production at Sony Europe, added, “Capturing such a globally significant moment demands technology that can be trusted to perform flawlessly. We are honoured that the Vatican continues to choose Sony solutions, and that the HDC-5500 played a part in delivering this moment of spiritual and historical importance to the world.”