Joseph
The new Alpha A7R III has recently replaced the older Alpha A7R II. In addition to providing several enhancements in terms of performance, the Alpha A7R III should also be capable of delivering an even more comprehensive dynamic range.
The newer model is the one to go for (or Nikon’s D850), but you might be able to pick up the A7R II at a fantastic bargain if you wait. If the budget can extend to it, the newer model is the one to go for.
Ever since it acquired the camera division of Konica Minolta in 2006, Sony has had high goals for the market for still and video cameras. However, after some early enthusiasm, there were only occasional times of activity, and the focus of many photographers and industry analysts began to decrease slightly.
Sony a7R II Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera, Body Only (Black) (ILCE7RM2/B),...
- World’s first Full-frame 5-axis in-body image stabilization optimized for 42.4MP full-frame, 4K movie recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning
- 2.4-million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder w/ZEISS T- coating, connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi and NFC w/camera apps, Fast focal plane phase-detection AF realized with A-mount lenses
- World’s first Full-frame 5-axis in-body image stabilization optimized for 42.4MP full-frame, 4K movie recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning
- 2.4-million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder w/ZEISS T- coating, connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi and NFC w/camera apps, Fast focal plane phase-detection AF realized with A-mount lenses
- Shutter vibration suppression, curtain shutter, silent shutter, Resolution meets sensitivity 42.4MP up to ISO 102,400/4K up to 25,600, Durable, reliable and ergonomically enhanced for professional use
- Fast Hybrid AF with 399 focal plane phase-detection AF points and sensor is 35 mm full-frame (35.9 x 24.0 mm), Exmor R CMOS sensor
- Inside box: Rechargeable Battery NP-FW50; Cable Protector; AC Adapter AC-UUD11; Battery Charger BC-VW1; Shoulder strap; Body cap; Accessory shoe cap; Eyepiece cup; Micro USB cable
After that, in September 2013, the business introduced the RX1, a remarkably tiny camera with a small form factor. Finally, after waiting a little over a year, the Alpha 7 and 7R were shown to the public, and that’s when we started paying serious attention. The unveiling of these cameras to the press in the UK elicited an audible gasp due to their diminutive size. Moreover, they were the first compact system cameras in the world to have a full-frame sensor.
Sony a7r II Performance
Our experiments in the natural world and the lab have shown that the Alpha 7R II can resolve much information. However, this should come as no surprise, given that the sensor in this camera contains 42 million individual pixels.
However, interestingly, we discovered that we couldn’t match the JPEG’s in-camera processing when processing raw file images of our chart using the software that was supplied; the JPEGs resolve very slightly more detail than the raw files do. As you would expect, the highest level of detail is captured at the lowest sensitivity settings.
In the laboratory, we discovered that the A7R II could almost reach the maximum score in our resolution tests, but it does not out-resolve the chart. Additionally, it cannot match the detail captured by the 50MP Canon 5DS, which is unsurprising given the disparity in pixel count between the two cameras. Similarly, the 36MP A7R and the Nikon D810 cannot capture as much information as the 48MP A7R II can.
JPEGs take on a little artistic look when seen at 100% on screen when the sensitivity is adjusted to mid-range levels.
At high values, this becomes much more apparent, as the edges look to be a touch sharp while the sections in between are a softer wash of color. When seen at regular viewing sizes, the JPEGs look OK, but when viewed at 100%, they have an overly processed appearance.
Sony a7r II Build Quality.
The A7R II, like the other cameras in the Alpha 7 family, features a design reminiscent of traditional single-lens reflex cameras. However, Sony has addressed some of the complaints raised over the first-generation A7 and A7R and has made the same adjustments to handling the A7R II as it did to the A7 II.
Because the front grip is more prominent than the others, using it is more pleasant and secure. The button that releases the shutter has been relocated onto the top of the grip. Directly below it is a recessed dial in an ideal location for adjusting the settings. Because of this, there is no room on the top plate for a second button that may be customized.
The body of the A7R II is made out of magnesium alloy and protected from the elements, much like the rest of the A7 series.
When held tightly, the front grip of the camera makes a creaking sound. I’m not talking about the type of grip that can break a bone in a handshake; instead, I’m referring to the kind of grip required when you have a lens like the FE 16-35mm f/4 or the 70-200mm f/4 mounted. The rest of the camera has a pleasant density and feels very solid, but the front grip makes a noise when held tightly.
Sony a7r II Image Quality
During this evaluation, the Sony A7R II generated photographs of exceptionally high quality. The Sony A7R II boasts a comprehensive and highly useable ISO range from 50 to 102,400. ISO 50-3200 produces almost no noise at all, while ISO 6400 and 12800 offer more than satisfactory results, and even ISO 25600 and 51200 may be used successfully in an emergency.
However, the RAW examples show how much processing the camera undertakes by default since they are significantly noisier than their JPEG counterparts across the board, regardless of the ISO value.
The 42-megapixel photographs come out of the camera slightly soft when using the default creative style. For the best results, you should sharpen them some more by utilizing an application such as Adobe Photoshop; alternatively, you may adjust the degree of sharpening that the camera applies automatically.
The night shot turned out well thanks to the camera’s maximum shutter speed of 30 seconds and its Bulb mode, which allow lots of room for creative experimentation during nighttime shooting.
The efficient Dynamic Range Optimizer function may extract additional data from an image’s shadow and highlight sections without adding any noise or other artifacts that aren’t wanted. The High Dynamic Range mode combines the results of two separate photos taken at various exposures into a single image. The result is an image that has a higher dynamic range than what would be produced by a single photograph.
However, it does yield some excellent effects even though it can only function with JPEGs and stationary subjects. Even after all these years, they still use Sony’s Sweep Panorama, a delightful experience. While the many Picture Effects enable you to create unique looks in a short amount of time, which would generally need you to spend a significant amount of time in the digital darkroom, the Creative Styles make it simple and quick to adjust the JPEG photos captured by the camera.
Sony a7r II Specs
| Body type | SLR-style mirrorless |
|---|---|
| Body material | Magnesium alloy |
| Sensor | |
| Max resolution | 7952 x 5304 |
| Other resolutions | 3:2, full-frame (5168 x 3448, 3984 x 2656), APS-C (5168 x 3448, 3984 x 2656, 2592 x 1728); 16:9, 35mm (7952 x 4472, 5168 x 2912, 3984 x 2240), APS-C (5168 x 2912, 3984 x 2240, 2592 x 1456) |
| Image ratio w h | 3:2, 16:9 |
| Effective pixels | 42 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 44 megapixels |
| Sensor size | Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) |
| Sensor size notes | BSI-CMOS full-frame sensor. No optical low-pass filter |
| Sensor type | BSI-CMOS |
| Processor | Bionz X |
| Color space | sRGB, AdobeRGB |
| Color filter array | Primary color filter |
| Image | |
| ISO | Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 50-102400) |
| Boosted ISO (minimum) | 50 |
| Boosted ISO (maximum) | 102400 |
| White balance presets | 10 |
| Custom white balance | Yes |
| Image stabilization | Sensor-shift |
| Image stabilization notes | 5-axis (4.5 stops per CIPA standard) |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Extra fine, fine, standard |
| File format | JPEG (DCF 2.0, EXIF 2.3)RAW (ARW 2.3) |
| Optics & Focus | |
| Autofocus | Contrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointSingleContinuousFace DetectionLive View. |
| Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
| Digital zoom | Yes (4X) |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Number of focus points | 399 |
| Lens mount | Sony E |
| Focal length multiplier | 1× |
| Screen/viewfinder | |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,228,800 |
| Touch screen | No |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
| Live View | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.78× |
| Viewfinder resolution | 2,359,296 |
| Photography features | |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/8000 sec |
| Exposure modes | AutoProgramAperture priorityShutter priorityManual |
| Scene modes | PortraitLandscapeMacroSports ActionSunsetNight PortraitNight SceneHand-held TwilightAnti Motion Blur |
| Built-in flash | No |
| External flash | Yes (via hot shoe) |
| Flash modes | Flash off, Autoflash, Fill-flash, Rear Sync, Slow Sync, Red-eye reduction, Hi-speed sync, Wireless |
| Flash X sync speed | 1/250 sec |
| Drive modes | SingleContinuousSelf-timer (single/continuous)Bracketing (single/continuous)WB bracketingDRO bracketing |
| Continuous drive | 5.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes (2 or 10 sec; continuous (3 or 5 exposures)) |
| Metering modes | MultiCenter-weighted spot |
| 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 |
| Videography features | |
| Resolutions | 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p, 24p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p) |
| Format | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
| Videography notes | headphone and microphone ports, XLR support via adapter |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo |
| Connectivity | |
| 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 | 802.11b/g/n with NFC |
| Remote control | Yes (wired or via smartphone) |
| Physical | |
| Environmentally sealed | Yes |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | NP-FW50 lithium-ion battery and charger |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 290 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 625 g (1.38 lb / 22.05 oz) |
| Dimensions | 127 x 96 x 60 mm (5 x 3.78 x 2.36″) |
| Other features | |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | Yes (via downloadable app) |
| GPS | None |
Sony a7r II Verdict
Sony a7R II Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera, Body Only (Black) (ILCE7RM2/B),...
- World’s first Full-frame 5-axis in-body image stabilization optimized for 42.4MP full-frame, 4K movie recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning
- 2.4-million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder w/ZEISS T- coating, connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi and NFC w/camera apps, Fast focal plane phase-detection AF realized with A-mount lenses
- World’s first Full-frame 5-axis in-body image stabilization optimized for 42.4MP full-frame, 4K movie recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning
- 2.4-million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder w/ZEISS T- coating, connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi and NFC w/camera apps, Fast focal plane phase-detection AF realized with A-mount lenses
- Shutter vibration suppression, curtain shutter, silent shutter, Resolution meets sensitivity 42.4MP up to ISO 102,400/4K up to 25,600, Durable, reliable and ergonomically enhanced for professional use
- Fast Hybrid AF with 399 focal plane phase-detection AF points and sensor is 35 mm full-frame (35.9 x 24.0 mm), Exmor R CMOS sensor
- Inside box: Rechargeable Battery NP-FW50; Cable Protector; AC Adapter AC-UUD11; Battery Charger BC-VW1; Shoulder strap; Body cap; Accessory shoe cap; Eyepiece cup; Micro USB cable
The Sony A7R II has a large pixel count, making it a genuine rival to DSLR cameras for landscape and portrait photography professionals. However, its superb autofocus performance and video functions offer it a far broader appeal. Unfortunately, however, there are still very few lens alternatives.
Read More:
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Do professional photographers use Sony?
More specifically, the A7R II is one of the many Sony cameras used by a significant number of working photographers.
Does A7R II overheat?
When capturing video for a prolonged time with the Sony A7R II, the camera may become overheated; however, this issue can be remedied by using an external cooling accessory or an external recorder.
Does the a7Rii have a silent shutter?
There is a silent shutter option available for the Sony A7R II.
Does Sony A7r II have Bluetooth?
The Sony A7R II does come equipped with Bluetooth communication.
Does Sony A7R II have image stabilization?
Yes, picture stabilization is built into the frame of the Sony A7R II camera.
Does Sony a7Rii have autofocus?
The Sony A7R II does have the capacity to autofocus.
Does Sony a7RII have an electronic shutter?
The Sony A7R II does come with a mechanical shutter choice.
Does Sony a7Rii have eye AF?
The Sony A7R II does come equipped with Eye AF technology.
However, does the Sony A7R II shoot 4K at 60fps?
No, the Sony A7R II can record 4K footage at a frame rate of up to 30 frames per second.
How long does a Sony a7ii last?
The Sony A7II can take up to 350 pictures on a single refill of its battery.
How many megapixels is the A7R II?
The camera inside the Sony A7R II has a resolution of 42.4 megapixels.
Is Sony A7R suitable for landscape photography?
Because of its high-resolution camera and its ability to capture a wide dynamic range, the Sony A7R is, in fact, an excellent choice for panoramic photography.
Is Sony A7R suitable for low light?
Indeed, the Sony A7R delivers a solid performance even in dimly lit environments.
Is Sony A7R suitable for photography?
There is no doubt that the Sony A7R is an excellent camera for photography, particularly for those who place a premium on high resolution and picture clarity.
Is Sony A7R II discontinued?
No, since it was first released, the Sony A7R II has been replaced by updated versions, such as the A7R III and the A7R IV,
Is Sony A7R III good for night photography?
Due to its high ISO range and excellent performance in low light, the Sony A7R III is, indeed, a worthy contender for use in night photography.
Is Sony a7rii suitable for wedding photography?
Because of its high-resolution sensor and ability to concentrate, the Sony A7R II is an intelligent option for photographers specializing in wedding photography.
Is Sony a7riii suitable for beginners?
Even though the Sony A7R III can be difficult to use for novice photographers, it is still a capable camera with some experience, capable of producing pictures and videos of a high standard.
Why is my Sony A7 III blurry?
Several potential causes exist for indistinct images captured with your Sony A7 III, including a dirty lens or sensor, improper focus settings, or camera movement.
