Sony has unveiled two exciting additions to its compact full-frame camera lineup: the Alpha 7C R and the Alpha 7C II, both featuring the potent BIONZ XR technology for a substantial enhancement in photo and video performance. Accompanying these releases is the all-new FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II lens, an improved version of the 2017 original, boasting superior image quality and autofocus speed in a more compact and lightweight form.
Key Features:
– A 61MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI Sensor
– Powered by the BIONZ XR Image Processor
– Capable of Shooting at Up to 8 fps, ISO 50-102800
– Pixel Shift Multi Shooting for 240.8MP Resolution
– 10-Bit Full-Frame 4K60p Video with S-Log3, S-Gamut3, S-Cinetone, and User LUTs
– Impressive 7 Stops of In-Body Image Stabilization
– A 693-Point Phase Detection Autofocus System Covering 79% of the Frame
– Equipped with a 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder and a 3″ 1.03m-Dot Vari-Angle LCD Touchscreen
Introducing the Alpha 7C R, Sony brings the high-resolution and imaging prowess of the Alpha 7R V into a more streamlined and minimalist package. Perfect for travel photographers and those craving high resolution without the added bulk, the Alpha 7C R retains the acclaimed 61MP full-frame Exmor R back-illuminated CMOS sensor from the Alpha 7R V while staying true to the compact form factor that defines the C series. It’s impressively 29% lighter and 53% smaller in volume than the Alpha 7R V, weighing in at a mere 1.14 pounds. The Alpha 7C R represents Sony’s smallest Alpha camera yet with such remarkable resolution.
With an AI processing unit and a 693-point phase detection system, the Alpha 7C R delivers outstanding autofocus performance, reliably locking onto a wide range of subjects, from people to insects, trains, and more. The Pixel Shift Multi shooting feature allows you to capture larger-than-life images with an astounding 240.8MP count. Additionally, an upgraded 5-axis in-body image stabilization system offers up to 7 stops of compensation, ensuring maximum image stability during on-the-go shooting and long exposures. With a standard ISO range of 100-3200 and an extended range of 50-102400, low-light shooting is worry-free.
The Alpha 7C R’s video capabilities are equally impressive, featuring professional video functions akin to Sony’s renowned Cine line, including:
– 10-bit 4:2:2 All-I XAVC S-I
– S-Log3 and S-Gamut3.Cine recording
– A dynamic range of over 15 stops
– Detailed Super35 4K recording oversampled from 6.2K (2.6 times the information of traditional 4K files)
– Shooting at up to 4K60 and FHD 120P in full frame
The Sony Alpha 7C R is set to redefine the concept of compact travel cameras with its high resolution and full-frame capabilities. For those who prefer a more substantial grip or have larger hands, it comes with an additional base-mounted extension handle, providing a ¼-20″ thread for tripod mounting while maintaining easy access to the battery. Speaking of batteries, despite its similar form factor to Sony’s APS-C line, the Alpha 7C R accommodates an NP-FZ battery, ideal for extended shooting sessions.
Meanwhile, for a versatile hybrid experience in a similarly compact form, the Alpha 7C II serves as the direct successor to the original a7C, released in September 2020, offering a host of exciting upgrades.
Building upon its predecessor, the Alpha 7C II introduces a cutting-edge 33MP sensor that elevates both photography and videography capabilities, surpassing the 24.2MP of the previous model. This sensor upgrade, combined with enhanced autofocus and improved low-light sensitivity, delivers superior performance.
Thanks to the inclusion of a new AI processing unit and an extra 66 phase detection points (for a total of 759 points and 94% sensor coverage), the autofocus system ensures unwavering subject tracking.
Capture fast-moving subjects at speeds of up to 10 fps, whether you opt for the mechanical or electronic shutter. Additionally, like the Alpha 7C R, the Alpha 7C II features an upgraded 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) system, offering up to 7 stops of compensation to counteract camera shake.
With an ISO range spanning from 100 to 51200, extendable to an impressive 50 to 204800, low-light and nighttime photography become effortless.
The Alpha 7C II’s versatility shines, offering multiple features to simplify your video recording experience. By oversampling from 7K and executing a full pixel readout without pixel binning, the camera ensures your full-frame 4K30 video exhibits remarkable clarity and presence. Activate the “anti-flicker TV scan” function for automatic adjustments of shutter speed, effectively countering light flickering imperceptible to the human eye.
Unlock a dynamic range of over 15 stops with S-log3 and S-Gamut3.cine, while the 10-bit 4:2:2 bit depth and color sub-sampling enable you to capture and reproduce shots with rich, nuanced colors. This means your video library will be replete with cinematic-quality footage.
Sony has incorporated numerous movie features into the Alpha 7C II, including breathing compensation, shockless white balance, AI-based auto framing, support for up to four audio recording channels, and more. In essence, the Alpha 7C II is designed to adapt to various shooting scenarios effortlessly. Whether you need to swiftly capture a sharp photo with pinpoint autofocus or seamlessly transition to shooting dynamic oversampled 4K video, the Alpha 7C II is your versatile, all-in-one solution for imaging needs.
The emergence of these new-generation compact full-frame cameras, the Alpha 7C R and Alpha 7C II, is exciting, as they pack an array of professional-grade photo and video features into their portable bodies. Pair either of these cameras with the new FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II lens, and you have a sleek, high-quality combo for top-notch shooting experiences.
