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 p.32 #9 · Pre-order: Sony Alpha a7 IV Mirrorless | |
This year, my main cameras has been the Sony A1 and the Canon R5, I've shot both extensively but I mainly do documentary, travel, portraits and sports like soccer - not much BIF or carefully planned landscape like many people here on FM.
I recently sold off all my Canon gear because a) I want to consolidate to the Sony platform due to the open lens mount and choices, and) having two systems is a fun and educational but kind of stupid for a weekend shooter like myself. But let's face it, there are worth vices to have ;-)
Now to the A7IV - it should come to no shock to anyone that it is not an A1. It doesn't have the performance, the speed, the handling, or the build quality of a A1. I don't think why anyone think it would or should. Nor is it meant to replace a A7SIII or A9II - again, different tools for different use-cases. Personally, I think the A7IV falls in the just-about-right Goldilock category -- it is not "the best" in pretty much any category but it performs and handles admirably in almost any category, making a great choice for enthusiasts and pros alike.
I can't really talk to how much of an improvement it is over an A7III because I went from the A7RIII to Canon R5 and the A1. Clearly, it feels more plastic and "cheap" compared to either an A1 or R5. The viewfinder is much better on those other cameras as well. I haven't shot any sports yet, nor enough low light, etc to do a "review", just some initial observations. Do I think the A1 is twice the camera? Sure, for some with gaps/needs that the A1 fill, it is clearly worth it, but overall, I think in my use-cases I am well enough served by the A7IV. Same thing goes for the R5 actually, I sold it off and saved $1,000. I sold the RF 70-200/2.8 that I was not getting along with for the FE 70-200/2.8 GMII, which seems to be the medicine the doctor ordered, but again, I need more time with it.
Net/net: I think the A7IV is a home run. For the price and the category it competes within, it is the top choice IMO, but the real benefit is the open Sony lens platform and the quality of the native GM and G glass that Sony produces at this point. I prefer the Sony 50/1.2GM over the RF 50/1.2, I prefer the FE 70-200/2.8GMII over the Canon RF 70-200/2.8 - both of those are important lenses for me. Add 35/1.4GM, 24/1.4GM, 20/1.8 or 135/1.8 (I hear, I haven't shot it myself) and you have a very capable and compelling system.
Merry Xmas PhotoFam!
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