p.78 #3Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
HopeIsEternal wrote:
Seems like a lot of people have too much money burning holes in their pockets with all the people saying their pre-ordering one or two even before the performance is known!
With having to replace my Sony A850 I was thinking that if the FF NEX was all the rumors claimed it would be I might go with it and kill two birds with one stone (ie, get FF and downsize to compact NEX body in one) but the following issues will probably make me go with a real DSLR and maybe a NEX6 or RX100 for compactness:
1. God awful fps. The Sony A7r fps performance is as bad as medium format! I can't believe there is a good reason (but artificial software limitation) for 1.5fps continuous AF performance in 2013 when top-tier 8-13mpx cellphones can all shoot at > 10-20 fps. 1.5 fps!! hahaha, you gotta be kidding me! Come on, for under $600, the lowest end 24mpx Nikon D3200 DSLR can beat that performance and weighs just 100g more. And yet this is Sony's $2,700 flagship?
2. God awful fps!!!!! Again! Basically this rules out capturing any action shots of your kids/pets or aircraft or sports with this camera and I believe that this really abysmal limitation helps to hide the atrocious shot-to-shot AF performance that I talked about in my Sony rant of a few days ago. Unbelievable!
3. Tiny 1080 mAh battery. Why Sony? Why?? This is half the power of the average Android cellphone today. Seriously why would the latest $2,700 SONY FF flagship take less pictures on a full charge than the cheapest $300-400 consumer compact cameras you can find?
4. No IBIS : great way to screw users of adapted and 3rd party lenses. I'm so used to IBIS on my Sony Alphas (A350,A700,A850) that I expect to get sharp images at longer exposure times. So with NEX FF I now have to increase ISO by two or three stops for the same quality Come on Sony.. The decision not to put IBIS in any NEX model has nothing to do with technical limits or cost (look at the Olympus mirrorless models for counter examples) but more to push customers to over-priced SONY OSS lenses.
4. NO affordable/value-priced native lenses. 55mm non-stabilized f/1.8 lens for $1000+?? You must be kidding again! Wishful thinking on the part of Sony that hundreds of thousands of people are going to pay that ridiculous sum for such an average lens just because of the Zeiss "brand" on Sony optics. 28-70mm very slow kit lens for $600? No way Jose! Are you kidding? Kit lens should have been 24-70mm f/4 and the Zeiss lens should have been f/2.8 aperture not f/4 for the same prices. There is absolutely no reason why an E-mount FF lens should cost up to 8x the price of the equivalent traditional DSLR FF lens. Again, if Sigma jumps into the NEX FF market with fast lenses, then I'm in too. So it will be wait and see....Show more →
People can complain about anything. From the spec sheet, I don't see any aspect of this camera as "abysmal," "god-awful," or designed to "screw" anyone. That any of these specs "rule out" any kind of photography speaks more to the limitations of the photographer than the camera.
And if you think a $1000 for a 55mm non-stabilized f/1.8 lens is "ridiculous sum," that anything less than "thousands of people" will pay for, you should look into what Leica is charging for the 50mm APO ASPH (Apparently, they can't make them fast enough at $7000 apiece). Or the $3000 Summilux that the reviewer at this site is using to test the resolution of the camera. And neither of those lenses even have autofocus.
p.78 #4Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
http://www.imaging-resource.com/camera-reviews/sony/a7r/ Sensor.
The Sony A7R is based around a 36.4-megapixel, RGB Bayer-filtered, Exmor CMOS image sensor with approximately the same dimensions as a 35mm film frame. Total resolution is 36.8-megapixels. Sensor size is 35.9 x 24.0mm.
Unlike that of its sibling, the A7, the Sony A7R's sensor doesn't include on-chip phase detection autofocus pixels. However, it does include a low-pass filter-free design for maximum resolution (at the expense of possible moiré), and it features gapless microlenses whose position has been tuned to avoid image quality issues with light arriving at high incidence angles, as in the corners of the image.
According to Sony, the A7R's image sensor will yield the highest image quality of any Alpha-series camera to date.
Performance.
Burst shooting performance of the Sony A7R isn't terribly swift, although that will likely be forgiven by photographers hooked on its pairing of huge sensor and compact body. With focus and exposure locked from the first frame, you can shoot at up to 4 frames per second. With autofocus and exposure between frames, the maximum rate plunges to just 1.5fps. The A7R's lower-res sibling performs better here, managing 5fps with exposure / focus locked, and 2.5fps otherwise.
Drive modes.
Five drive modes are available: Single, continuous, speed priority continuous, self-timer, and bracketing. Speed priority continuous differs from standard continuous in that focus and exposure are locked from the first shot, yielding greater performance. Self-timer options are 2 or 10 seconds.
Remote control.
As well as the ability to control it remotely via Wi-Fi, the Sony A7R lets you trip the shutter release from an infrared remote, using a receiver in the handgrip. It can also accept Sony's Multi-Terminal Interface wired remotes in the USB port. ...Show more →
http://www.imaging-resource.com/camera-reviews/sony/a7/ Sensor. The Sony A7 is based around a 24.3-megapixel, RGB Bayer-filtered, Exmor CMOS image sensor with approximately the same dimensions as a 35mm film frame. Total resolution is 24.7-megapixels, and the design includes on-chip phase detection autofocus pixels. Sensor size is 35.8 x 23.9mm.
Performance. The Sony A7 isn't a camera you'll select for sports, with relatively sedate burst shooting performance. That will likely be forgiven by photographers hooked on its pairing of a huge sensor, compact body and affordable price, though. With focus and exposure locked from the first frame, you can shoot at up to 5 frames per second. With autofocus and exposure between frames, the maximum rate plunges to just 2.5fps. That's one frame per second faster for both figures than its higher-res sibling, the Sony A7R.
Drive modes. Five drive modes are available: Single, continuous, speed priority continuous, self-timer, and bracketing. Speed priority continuous differs from standard continuous in that focus and exposure are locked from the first shot, yielding greater performance. Self-timer options are two or ten seconds. ...Show more →
So it looks like only the A7R has the offset micro lenses.
And it looks like they moved the remote from the drive mode, WE CAN SHOOT BRACKETED SHOTS WITH THE REMOTE!!!!
p.78 #5Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
naturephoto1 wrote:
Do we know yet if the cameras can accept a remote cable and what the longest time shutter speeds that the can be used?
Rich
that was my first question, too. B&H has the Sony - RM-VPR1 cable listed as an optional accessory, Adorama does not. Previous rumors had stated the remote would be IR wireless only.
p.78 #6Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
Press release:
SAN DIEGO, Oct. 15, 2013 – Sony’s new A7 and A7R digital cameras are the world’s smallest full-frame interchangeable lens models 2. Highly anticipated by professional photographers and imaging enthusiasts alike, the two new cameras offer an unmatched combination of creativity, customizability and portability.
The A7R model features a 36.4 effective 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 an impressive 24.3 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor® CMOS sensor and an innovative fast Hybrid AF system.
Each camera is equipped with advanced imaging features including a powerful 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.
“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 3. 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 new cameras share a powerful new BIONZ X processor that accurately reproduces details in textures in real-time via extra high-speed processing capabilities, and allows for exceptional low noise performance in all types of lighting conditions. Additionally, the powerful processor combined with the advanced, high resolution sensors allow both cameras to shoot pro-quality Full HD video (AVCHD progressive, 1920x1080p @ 60p) with richly detailed colors and ultra-low noise.
Clear Image Zoom has been enhanced for video recording as well, allowing for powerful close-up shots without sacrificing 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 PlayMemories™ 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 5. Find out more at www.playmemoriescameraapps.com .
The new A7 and A7R cameras each have a tough, magnesium alloy build and are dust and moisture resistant for standing up to some of the toughest weather conditions.
A7R Camera
Designed for professional photographers and highly advanced enthusiasts, the new A7R model is the world’s smallest and lightest full-frame interchangeable lens camera2.
It has an impressive 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 Fast Intelligent 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
Offering an exciting entry into the world of full-frame photography, the A7 camera features an advanced 24.3 effective megapixel full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor paired with the powerful new BIONZ X processor.
The exciting new camera has an innovative 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 or energetic children.
New Sony A Lenses and Accessories
There are a total of 5 new full-frame E-mount lenses designed to take full advantage of the powerful imaging capabilities of the A7R and A7 cameras, including mid-range zoom lenses from Sony and Carl Zeiss, two bright Zeiss Sonnar T*™ prime lenses and a premium-quality G Lens™ telephoto zoom. Sony’s growing E-mount interchangeable lens lineup now consists of 21 different lenses including the new full-frame models.
In addition to the new lenses, there are also two new-generation mount adaptors that give photographers the ability to utilize full-frame Sony A-mount optics on the A7 and A7R cameras. The LA-EA3 adapter simply adds compatibility for existing A-mount lenses the new cameras, while the LA-EA4 model adds the ultra-fast focusing and shooting capabilities of Sony’s innovative Translucent Mirror Technology.
There is also a new vertical grip (VG-C1EM) that offers greater comfort during vertical shooting and can accommodate two separate NP-FW50 batteries for extended battery life and shooting time. A new BC-TRW compact external battery charger that quickly charges batteries and is great for travel, and FA-CS1M off camera shoe allows the use of external flashes (HVL-43M, 20M) in off-camera wired applications. Additionally, the new LCS-ELCA premium soft leather carry case protects the A7 and A7R cameras from scuffs and marks while being carried.
Pricing and Availability
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.
The versatile new LA-EA3 and LA-EA4 mount adapters will be available in December for about $200 and $350, respectively.
The new VG-C1EM vertical grip and LCS-ELCA premium case will also be available in December for about $300 and $ 140, respectively.
The new camera and all compatible accessories will be available at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) and other authorized dealers nationwide.
Please visit www.blog.sony.com for a full video preview of the new Sony A7R and A7 full-frame cameras and follow #SonyAlpha on twitter for the latest A camera news.
1 According to survey conducted by Sony as of October 2013, for non-reflex interchangeable lens digital camera equipped with auto focus function.
2 According to Sony’s internal research as of October SAN DIEGO, Oct. 15, 2013 – Sony’s new A7 and A7R digital cameras are the world’s smallest full-frame interchangeable lens models 2. Highly anticipated by professional photographers and imaging enthusiasts alike, the two new cameras offer an unmatched combination of creativity, customizability and portability.
p.78 #10Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
From Steve Huff: MANY more of us able to enjoy Leica M lenses. From my 1st test using a Leica M 50 Summilux on the A7r, it should be quite special. Not sure how wide angle lenses will do, but a 50 and 35 1.4 did well, so, so far so good.
p.78 #11Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
LightShow wrote:
From Steve Huff: Earlier quoteMANY more of us able to enjoy Leica M lenses. From my 1st test using a Leica M 50 Summilux on the A7r, it should be quite special. Not sure how wide angle lenses will do, but a 50 and 35 1.4 did well, so, so far so good.
too bad he wasn't allowed to use a memory card so he's just judging what he saw threw the evf.
also, haven't heard about anything wider than 50mm at all yet.
p.78 #16Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
philber wrote:
From memory, though, the Sony-Zeiss MTF are computed, whereas the Zeiss are actuall measurements. Not sure how these play out...
Indeed, but you can get a general idea on the performance. Normally I think the wide open graphs are pretty accurate, and you can pull down the stopped down graph by 10%.
p.78 #17Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
Thank you Sony for departing the NEX menu system.
Would any RX1 owner know if Sony limits the customization of custom buttons from a small Sony-selected set of functions, such as the NEX does, or if it is more open than that?
(this assuming you can customize controls in the RX1)
Edit:
As an example on the NEX 5N, you cant set any button to be flash exp comp.
p.78 #19Our prayers have been answered: Nex-FF in 2 months
wfrank wrote:
Thank you Sony for departing the NEX menu system.
Would any RX1 owner know if Sony limits the customization of custom buttons from a small Sony-selected set of functions, such as the NEX does, or if it is more open than that?
(this assuming you can customize controls in the RX1)
Edit:
As an example on the NEX 5N, you cant set any button to be flash exp comp.
there are certainly more options in the rx1. i believe you can set any of the customizable buttons to flash exp comp (not a function i've ever used so haven't looked into it specifically). all the customizable buttons on the rx1 allow the same options unlike on the NEX except for the movie rec button where the only option is on or off (so silly, why not allow other functions for this button? ).