This mirrorless camera from Sony, which features 5-axis SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization with 4.5 stops of compensation for pitch, yaw, and horizontal shift as well as roll and roll, is the latest addition to their full-frame camera lineup.
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The a7 II Mirrorless Camera is available now for purchase. Because of a revised grip, shutter release button, and adjustable settings, the 24.3-megapixel series features a more intuitive operation than previous models.
With its magnesium alloy frame and more robust lens mount, the a7 II is also water- and dust-resistant, making it an excellent choice for outdoor photography. The a7 II also includes an upgraded Fast Hybrid AF system that is about 30% quicker than the previous model, as well as 5 frames per second burst rate with continuous autofocus and a 40% faster start time. This is because of updated algorithms and greater usage of the BIONZ image processor.
The 24.3-megapixel sensor, which has a normal ISO sensitivity range of 100-25600, produces high-resolution photographs while also being effective in low-light conditions. Fast processing and operating rates are provided by the BIONZ X image processor, while front-end LSI (large-scale integration) enhances the early stages of image processing, resulting in more lifelike details and richer tones.
And the detail given by the sensor is preserved with the use of 16-bit picture processing and 14-bit RAW output.
Beyond taking extremely detailed still images with smooth gradients, the a7 II now supports the high-bit-rate XAVC S format, which can record in 60p, 30p, and 24p at speeds up to 50 Mbps in all three frame rates.
Picture profiles, which include the inclusion of the S-Log2 gamma setting with a dynamic range of nearly 1,300 percent of the normal sRGB spectrum, may also be used to alter the appearance of movies, among other things. As well as clean HDMI output for a number of recording choices, timecode, and user bit settings are also available on this model.
Its advanced Sony Multi-Interface shoe expands the range of accessories that can be used with the camera, including flashes, microphones, and other accessories.
Additionally, as an E-mount full-frame camera, the a7 II is compatible with all current APS-C E-mount lenses in APS-C crop mode as well as new Zeiss and Sony G-series full-frame lenses. Lens mount adapters with a tripod mount are also available to allow the use of A-mount lenses on E-mount cameras, and an optional dedicated battery grip allows for secure prolonged shooting and vertical orientation stability whether shooting in portrait mode or landscape mode.
Both a 3.0″ 1,228.8k-dot tilting LCD panel and a 2.36 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder are available for picture monitoring and evaluation, rounding out the a7 II’s imaging capabilities. Integrated Wi-Fi networking, which includes NFC capability, enables the camera to be controlled remotely from a connected mobile device, as well as allowing quick sharing of images captured by the camera.
The FE 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS E-mount lens is included with the Sony a7 II in this set as well. This wide-to-portrait zoom integrates three aspherical elements and one extra-low dispersion element into its design in order to reduce chromatic aberrations and improve overall picture quality while maintaining a compact size.
To accommodate operating in low light and with slow shutter speeds, Optical SteadyShot picture stabilization technology has been incorporated to help decrease the appearance of camera wobble and improve overall performance. This stabilization system will function in conjunction with the camera’s in-body stabilization system. It has a minimum focus distance of 11.8″ and a maximum focus distance of 11.8″.
Exmor CMOS image sensor with 24.3MP resolution and BIONZ X image processor
A 24.3-megapixel Exmor CMOS picture sensor and a BIONZ X image processor are integrated into the a7II’s new casing, and they work together to provide a broad dynamic range with minimal noise and rich, nuanced gradations.
The camera has an ISO range of 100-51,200, which may be further narrowed down to ISO 50 if necessary. Additionally, the a7II is able to reproduce fine details with exceptional clarity because of this combination.
The employment of detail reproduction technology and diffraction-reducing technology reduces the effects of diffraction and allows for the reproduction of fine details at small aperture settings, both of which improve image quality.
Add to this area-specific noise reduction, which allows you to individually apply different levels of noise reduction to different areas of the image for clearer imaging. In addition, the sensor has 16-bit picture processing with 14-bit RAW output to preserve detail and assure excellent quality for further modification and post-processing.
The metering performance has been further enhanced in this iteration, and it is now feasible to read down to a rating of -1 EV. Additionally, the a7II will boot up around 40% quicker than the previous version, allowing for virtually instantaneous operation.
5-Axis SteadyShot Image Stabilization INSIDE the camera
The impressive 5-axis SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization technology is packed inside the sleek a7II’s compact body. This adjusts for five different forms of camera wobble that might occur while taking still photos and video with a handheld camera.
The ability to utilize any lens, even adapted lenses, for important images without encountering blur due to camera shake is a huge advantage for photographers. The shutter speed compensation technology will correct for about 4.5 stops of shutter speed while photographing a wide range of subjects.
When working with longer focal lengths, the system will compensate for pitch and yaw corrections automatically. The incorporation of horizontal and vertical shift correction will, on the other hand, be beneficial for macro and high magnification pictures. In addition, the roll compensation will be useful for all shooting techniques due to its flexibility.
No matter if you are using third-party lenses and adapters or lenses with built-in optical stabilization, all five axes of stabilization will always be active and working properly.
Using manual settings to enter the right focal length and maintain adequate stabilization when using lenses that do not communicate imaging data to the camera is an option when using non-transmitting lenses.
Additionally, by pushing the shutter release button halfway or magnifying the image, the viewfinder may be utilized to preview the amount of compensation that will be applied.
Enhanced Fast Hybrid AF (Automatic Flight Control)
The a7II’s autofocus system, which has 117 phase-detection and 25 contrast-detection points with a large area of coverage, allows it to follow fast-moving targets smoothly and rapidly throughout the whole frame.
It enhances performance by around 30% when compared to prior generations by optimizing for both speed and accuracy through the use of an improved algorithm. The subject movement will be predicted more correctly using this newly designed algorithm, which is 1.5 times more accurate than previous algorithms.
Also included is the ability to record photographs at a rate of 5 frames per second while employing continuous focusing and auto exposure. When shooting in JPEG Fine L format, this may be shot in a burst of up to 77 frames per second, and a continuous AF Display allows users to see which AF points are now active.
One more function accessible with this AF system is Lock-on AF tracking, which will evaluate more information from the scene in order to deliver much-enhanced accuracy and stability. In addition, eye AF is provided, which prioritizes the pupil of a subject to produce superb portraits even when the depth of focus is small.
Full-HD video recording and the XAVC S format are also available.
Film in full HD at 1920 x 1080 resolution at frame rates of 60p, 30p, and 24p using the high bit-rate 50Mbps XAVC S codec, which has a bit rate of 50Mbps. Because of this, high image quality with minimum noise and artifacts is achieved without the need for a significant quantity of storage space. Additionally, the system makes use of linear PCM sound to provide high-quality audio output.
When recording internally, users will record video with a 4:2:0 sampling rate at 8-bit resolution; however, the a7II includes a clean HDMI output that can be used with an external recorder to even further increase image quality even more. Users will be able to capture 4:2:2 uncompressed video and store it in an edit-ready format as a result of this.
Timecode and User Bit Settings are two important considerations.
The a7II offers a variety of timecode recording options to accommodate a variety of workflows. This camera includes two timecode modes: the conventional “Record Run” mode, which only advances the timecode when recording, and the “Free Run” timecode mode, which advances the timecode even when the camera is not recording, which might be useful for synching many cameras during live events.
Timecode can be recorded in both drop frame and non-drop frame modes, and it can also be recorded in drop frame mode. When recording internally, the a7II has the ability to broadcast timecode over the HDMI output.
Color Profiles & Swatches that may be customized
-Log2 Gamma is a logarithmic scale.
The a7II has comprehensive configurable color and gamma settings to ensure that it can take advantage of its expansive dynamic range when capturing video. Gamma, black level, knee, color level, and other parameters may be customized by the user.
Also available is the S-Log2 Gamma Curve used on high-end Sony Cinema cameras, which compresses up to 1300 percent more dynamic range into the video signal than typical REC709, allowing for greater post-production flexibility.
Tilting LCD Monitor with 1228.8k-Dot Resolution 3.0″
The LCD screen, which has a greater 1,228.8k-dot resolution, will give shooters a fantastic screen for creating photographs, altering settings, and reviewing video and photos. It also tilts upward 107 degrees and downward 41 degrees, allowing you to work with a variety of shooting angles.
The use of the display in direct sunlight is made easier because of the inclusion of WhiteMagic technology, which doubles the brightness of the display through the use of an RGBW pixel arrangement.
Electronic Viewfinder with 0.5″ 2.36M-dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder Display
The viewfinder, which uses a three-lens optical system, accurately depicts what will appear in your video, including the impact of your camera settings. You’ll like the rich tone gradations and enhanced contrast.
A wide viewing angle and high-end features such as 100 percent frame coverage make it possible to compose at the level of the eyes in a pleasant and steady manner.
Grip, shutter release button, and other controls have all been redesigned.
Users will discover that the a7II has a more secure feel and hold, even when using big lenses, thanks to the larger, more refined design of the grip. In addition, the shutter release button has been redesigned and relocated forward to provide a more comfortable shooting position and a reduction in camera shaking during video recording.
The controls have also been updated with a new location that makes them simpler to handle and to use efficiently. Customization of the buttons is possible, allowing you to assign any of 56 functions to any of the 10 customizable buttons, allowing you to create a more unique layout.
Magnesium alloy construction, as well as a durable lens mount.
The small design is well-built, with a magnesium-alloy top cover, front cover, and internal structure to provide strength and durability. In order to provide more security while utilizing larger or longer lenses, the lens mount has been modified to provide better strength and stiffness.
The body itself has been improved in terms of dust and moisture resistance, allowing for more protection when shooting outdoors in inclement weather conditions. An anti-static coating is applied to the optical filter on the sensor’s surface, and the sensor is equipped with an anti-dust mechanism that prevents dust from clinging to the sensor.
Headphone jack and audio input jack
The a7II is equipped with a 3.5mm microphone input port, which allows it to be used with external microphones. In addition, for those who want more, the Sony a7II is compatible with the Sony XLR-K2M XLR Adapter, which allows users to record professionally balanced XLR audio signals with phantom power and adjustable mic/line inputs using the Sony a7II.
An audio monitoring jack (3.5mm) and real-time audio levels (for visual reference) are included on the a7II for recording and monitoring sounds.
Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as NFC functionality
The a7II’s built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows it to rapidly transfer imagery to mobile devices for direct uploading to social media sites, sending through email, and storing in cloud storage services. Near Field Communication (NFC) is also enabled, allowing for a one-touch connection between the camera and compatible mobile devices without the need for any complicated setup.
If a mobile device is connected to the camera, it may also display a live view image on its screen and control the camera’s shutter remotely.
Additional PlayMemories Camera Apps are enabled through the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi connection, allowing you to customize the camera’s functions based on your preferred shooting style.
A wide range of apps is available to assist with the creation of portraits, detailed close-ups, sports, time-lapse photography, motion photography, and other sorts of photos.
Additional Camera Functions
- Posterization (color and black and white), Pop Color, Retro Photo, Partial Color (R/G/B/Y), High Contrast Monochrome, Toy Camera, Soft High-Key, Soft Focus, HDR Painting, Rich-Tone Monochrome, Miniature, Watercolor, and Illustration are some of the picture effect options available.
- Creative Style options include: Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Clear, Deep, Light, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, Night Scene, Autumn Leaves, Black & White, and Sepia (all with +/- 3 step contrast, saturation, and sharpness adjustment), Black & White, and Sepia (all with +/- 3 step contrast, saturation, and sharpness adjustment), Black & White, and Sepia (all with +/- 3 step contrast, saturation, and sharpness adjustment), Black &
- RGB color space (with sync gamut) and Adobe RGB color system (which is compatible with TRILUMINOS Color) are also supported.
- Among the Picture Profile options are Black Level, Gamma (Movie and Still), Gamma (ITU709 [800 percent], S-Log2), Black Gamma, Knee (color mode), Color Level (color phase) (color depth), Detail (detail depth), Copy (copy), Reset (reset) and Reset (reset).
- Scene Selection modes include Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports Action, Sunset, Night Portrait, Night Scene, Hand-held Twilight, and Anti Motion Blur. There are also other scene enhancement options.
- Face Detection is a feature that allows you to base exposure and focus on up to eight different faces. Furthermore, by keeping the critical focus on a subject’s eye, Eye AF may be utilized to achieve even higher levels of accuracy.
- 2x Clear Image Zoom may be used to effectively twice the magnification provided by any lens currently in use while causing the least amount of deterioration to the image. For even higher magnification, Smart zoom options of 1.5x and 2x, as well as 4x digital zoom, are also available.
- Pre-flash TTL control is provided, as is flash bracketing, and a range of flash settings are available, including: flash off, auto, fill-flash, rear sync, slow sync, red-eye reduction, high-speed sync, and wireless control.
Sony a7 II Specs
| MSRP | $1699 body only $1999 with 28-70mm F3.5-5.6 |
|---|---|
| Body type | SLR-style mirrorless |
| Max resolution | 6000 x 4000 |
| Other resolutions | 6000 x 3376, 3936 x 2624, 3936 x 2216, 3008 x 1688, 3008 x 2000 |
| Image ratio w:h | 3:2, 16:9 |
| Effective pixels | 24 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 25 megapixels |
| Sensor size | Full frame (35.8 x 23.9 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Processor | Bionz X |
| ISO | 100-25600 |
| Boosted ISO (minimum) | 50 |
| White balance presets | 10 |
| Custom white balance | Yes |
| Image stabilization | Sensor-shift |
| Image stabilization notes | 4.5 stops |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Extra fine, fine, standard |
| Autofocus | Contrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointSingleContinuousFace DetectionLive View |
| Digital zoom | Yes (4) |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Number of focus points | 117 |
| Lens mount | Sony E |
| Focal length multiplier | 1× |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,230,000 |
| Touch screen | No |
| Screen type | Xtra Fine LCD |
| Live view | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.71× |
| Viewfinder resolution | 2,359,000 |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/8000 sec |
| Aperture priority | Yes |
| Shutter priority | Yes |
| Manual exposure mode | Yes |
| Subject / scene modes | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| External flash | Yes (via Multi Interface shoe) |
| Continuous drive | 5.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes (2 or 10 sec; continuous (3 or 5 exposures)) |
| Metering modes | MultiCenter-weightedSpot |
| Exposure compensation | ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±5 (3, 5 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps) |
| WB Bracketing | Yes |
| Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p) |
| Format | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
| Videography notes | Supports XAVC S codec (50Mbps) and S Log2 flat picture profile |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| HDMI | Yes (micro-HDMI port with 4K still, uncompressed video output) |
| Microphone port | Yes |
| Headphone port | Yes |
| Wireless | Built-In |
| Wireless notes | with NFC and wireless control via PlayMemories Mobile app |
| Remote control | Yes (wired) |
| Environmentally sealed | Yes |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | NP-FW50 lithium-ion battery and charger |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 350 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 599 g (1.32 lb / 21.13 oz) |
| Dimensions | 127 x 96 x 60 mm (5 x 3.78 x 2.36″) |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | No |
| GPS | None |
Sony a7 II Price
