Just when mirrorless cameras were gaining popularity like the DSLR ones, Sony leaped ahead in the race with the launch of Alpha 7 and 7R, which are the world’s first cameras with a 35mm full-frame sensor in this category. Get to know more about them in this write-up.
Did You Know?
Both cameras have nine customizable buttons and about 46 assignable features to suit your shooting needs!
The A7 and A7R cameras are the first of its kind due to the full-frame interchangeable lens that they are equipped with. With NFC and Wi-Fi support, full-HD 60 fps video recording, Triluminos Color support, and many new features, these products are going to be market favorites in no time.
We have highlighted the capabilities of the two cameras. Please note the pre-orders for these cameras are available on Sony’s official website, however the shipping is expected to begin in the later half of 2013.
* All the images are sourced from Sony.com.
Alpha 7
24.3 megapixels |
Fast Hybrid AF (phase detection/ contrast detection) |
117 points phase detection AF |
25 points contrast detection AF |
416g body only |
474g with battery and Memory Stick PRO Duo |
$1,699.99 |
Expected shipping: December 2013 |
Alpha 7R
36.4 megapixels |
Fast Intelligent AF |
25 points contrast detection AF |
407g body only |
465g with battery and Memory Stick PRO Duo |
$2,299.99 |
Expected shipping: November 30, 2013 |
Quick Specifications Check
Here is a quick roundup of the common features in both these devices.
- 35mm full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor
- BIONZ X™ processor
- XGA OLED Tru-Finder™ with 100% field coverage
- 7.5cm type TFT LCD screen with adjustable angle of 90 degrees up and 45 degrees down
- NFC and Wi-Fi compatible
- Built-in stereo microphones, Built-in speaker, 3.5mm stereo minijack
- 126.9mm x 94.4mm x 48.2mm
- JPEG and RAW recording format (still images), AVCHD format (movie)
- ISO 100-25600 equivalent/ AUTO (ISO 100-6400, selectable lower limit and upper limit) for still images
- ISO 200-25600 equivalent/ AUTO (ISO 200-6400 equivalent) for movies
- Dust/moisture-resistant magnesium alloy body
- Full-HD video recording 60p/25p
- 4K photo output
- TRILUMINOS Display compatible
Main Features
Let us now see some of the important features of both the devices in detail.
Lens
The A7 and A7R cameras are equipped with interchangeable lenses that will excite professional photographers. These lenses haven’t changed from the previous launch, with both the devices using the E-mount Carl Zeiss lenses. If you are confused as to how such a big lens could fit into the camera, you will be surprised to see how perfect this arrangement is. And as long as you can click good photos, I don’t think anyone is complaining.
Crop Mode and Full-frame Mode
In the crop mode, the A7 camera can click pictures in 10 megapixel resolution, and in full-frame mode, the resolution is 24.3 megapixels. In the crop mode, the A7R camera uses only 15 megapixels of the total 36.4 megapixels that are available in the full-frame mode.
Autofocus
The enhanced Fast Hybrid autofocus in A7, which includes phase detection and contrast detection features, makes this launch the fastest autofocusing camera among the lot. It has 117 points phase detection AF and 25 points contrast detection AF. The A7R has a 36.4 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, without any anti-aliasing filter. However, the contrast detection AF with 25 focus points autofocus is available.
Display
You can view shots on the high resolution XGA OLED Tru-Finder or the 3.0-type tiltable LCD screen. This screen can be up by approximately 90 degrees and down by approximately 45 degrees. These images can be viewed on any 4K or Bravia television with Triluminos display, thanks to the Triluminos Color support.
Video Recording
You can shoot full-HD videos (the button is provided at the side of the camera) with ultra-low noise even in lowlight backgrounds. With the help of the Clear Image Zoom feature, you can take closeups while shooting videos, without compromising on the pixel count. Near the video button, you will find a microphone, headphone, and a clean HDMI port that can used for displaying images/videos on an external monitor. The videos are recorded in P, A, S, and M modes.
Connectivity
The NFC and Wi-Fi options offer one-touch connectivity with other compatible Android and Xperia devices. If you are interested in group shots or self-portraits, you will be excited with the Smart Remote Control, which can control exposure and shutter release alongside automatic photo sharing with your mobile device.
Body
The camera body is weather-sealed due to the tough magnesium alloy that is used.
The pre-orders for these cameras have already begun, although shipping is slated to happen in the coming months. These cameras, due to their high-quality lenses and imaging techniques, will definitely give the best possible results. Look forward to a great buy this holiday!