The much awaited cameras from Sony are now official, Sony’s new a7 and a7R digital cameras are full-frame interchangeable lens
models.The company claims that these two cameras are the smallest full
frame mirrorless cameras in the world and offer an unmatched combination
of creativity, customizability and portability.
a7R Camera:
The camera has a 36.4 effective
megapixel full frame sensor and no optical low pass filter, ensuring
that the extraordinary resolving power is fully realized and resulting
in an unprecedented level of detail and clarity in images. The camera features
a new AF technology that delivers blazingly quick, accurate autofocus.
Additionally, there are a total of three selectable sizes for the
Flexible Spot AF frame, minimizing the risk of accidentally focusing on
the wrong target.
a7 Camera:
The a7 camera features
an advanced 24.3 effective megapixel full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor
paired with the powerful new BIONZ X processor. This new camera has a
Fast Hybrid AF system that combines phase- and contrast-detect AF
methods to ensure speedy, accurate autofocus. It can also shoot at up to
5 fps continuously with non-stop AF tracking, allowing it to keep pace
with fast- moving athletes, wildlife.
With these new a7 camera systems, Sony has completely redefined the
look and feel of a professional-grade digital camera,” said Mike Kahn,
director of the interchangeable lens
camera business at Sony Electronics. “The a7 and a7R cameras are
significantly smaller, lighter and more portable than any other
full-frame interchange lens camera yet deliver image quality, power and
performance that professionals and enthusiasts crave.”Both cameras
feature full customization and control to meet the needs of the most
demanding photographers. There are 9 different customizable buttons and
46 assignable functions that can be adjusted based on shooting
preferences, including fully customizable front and back dials, a rear
control wheel and an exposure compensation dial. Users can preview all
changes to photographic settings in real-time on the high-contrast, 2.4
million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder or the high-resolution tiltable 3″ LCD
screen.
The a7R model features a 36.4 megapixel
35mm Exmor CMOS sensor – the highest resolution sensor in the history of
Sony’s ‘a’ line – with no optical low pass filter for added resolving
power and increased image detail. The a7 model boasts a 24.3 effective
megapixel 35mm Exmor CMOS sensor and a Hybrid AF system.
Both cameras are equipped with advanced
imaging features including a new BIONZ X processor; fast AF
capabilities; a clear, bright XGA OLED Tru-finder, full HD 60p video
recording, Wi-Fi and NFC connection, dust-and moisture- resistance and
more.
The company claims that clear Image Zoom
has been enhanced for video recording as well, allowing for close-up
shots without sacrificing the pixel count. Other pro-style movie
features include an audio recording level control and display plus a
“live” HDMI® output for passing through video to an external monitor or
recording device.
The new cameras both have on-board Wi-Fi
and NFC capabilities for instant image sharing and transfer to
compatible smartphones and tablets. The a7R and a7 models can access
Sony’s platform of PlayMemoriesTM Camera Apps, allowing users to add new
effects, filters, utilities and more. This platform includes new
‘Multiple Exposure’ app, which automatically combines sequential
exposures into one creative shot, and ‘Smart Remote Control’4, which
allows for direct control of exposure and shutter speed from a connected
smartphone and is particularly useful for self-portraits or group shots.
The Sony a7R and a7 full-frame
interchangeable lens cameras will be available for purchase this
December. The a7R camera will be offered as a body-only for about
$2300. The Sony a7 compact system camera will be offered with a 28-70mm
F3.5 – F5.6 full- frame lens (model SEL2870) for about $2000. It will
also be offered as a body-only for about $1700.
