New Sony Alpha 7R V with next-generation autofocus with advanced processor
The Sony Alpha 7R V offers improved subject recognition, high image quality with 61.0MP R-series resolution, and enhanced video functionalities, combined with an intuitive interface and high reliability.
Today, Sony announced the Alpha 7R V – the latest camera in the 7R series, part of the widely acclaimed Alpha series of mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras. For the first time in an Alpha 7R series camera, the Alpha 7R V combines Sony's highest resolution sensor with the powerful BIONZ XR™ processor. This combination of high resolution and the BIONZ XR™ processor enables new achievements in subject recognition and capture in both stills and video. The new Alpha 7R V offers 61.0MP stills, exceptional 8K[i] video quality, the most effective 8-stop[ii] in-body image stabilization ever offered in any Sony Alpha camera, a new 4-axis multi-angle LCD screen, high-speed communication features, high functionality, and seamless workflow integration. Sony's latest camera is ideal for professionals who need a premium tool for capturing high-resolution images.
"The newest addition to our Alpha 7R series is the perfect example of our tireless efforts to develop new, industry-leading technologies," said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Director of Product Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe. "We are thrilled to introduce the all-new Alpha 7R V with incredibly advanced AI integration, which gives you next-generation autofocus capabilities. We look forward to seeing what our community will create with the new Alpha 7R V."
Improved AF based on a newly developed AI processor
The Alpha 7R V offers next-generation AF with improved subject recognition thanks to an all-new AI (artificial intelligence) processing unit, which includes deep learning. The latest AI-based processing uses detailed information about the approximate pose of the human body to dramatically improve the camera's subject recognition precision and enable the full potential resolution[iii]. AI-based subject recognition has also been expanded to include several new subject types, including vehicles and insects[iv].
In addition to advanced AI technologies, the Alpha 7R V offers enhancements to many popular features from other Sony Alpha cameras, which are now included in the Sony 7R series for the first time:
- Flawless Real-time Tracking[v]
- Faster AF system with more precise and wider focus area and high density.
- Continuous shooting up to 10 fps[vi] with AF/AE tracking
- Silent, vibration-free shooting[vii] at speeds up to 7 fps[viii]
- Continuous shooting of up to 583 images in compressed RAW format at high speed[ix]
The Alpha 7R V also offers focus features that support high resolution, including full-time DMF[x] (direct manual focus) and focus bracketing[xi] – a highly desired feature that allows for focus stacking.
Exceptional resolution, possible only with the Sony Alpha 7R series
The Alpha 7R V is designed to deliver an incredible amount of detail thanks to the latest BIONZ XR™ processor and a 35mm full-frame Exmor R™ CMOS back-illuminated sensor with approximately 61.0 effective megapixels. The latest BIONZ XR processor ensures that the full potential resolution of the camera's sensor is utilized to achieve the highest resolution at low sensitivity of any Alpha series camera to date. This allows for sensitivity settings from ISO 100 to ISO 32000[xii] for both stills and video, and a wide dynamic range of 15 stops[xiii] for stills.
The entire stabilization system of the Alpha 7R V has been updated with a new high-precision image stabilization unit, advanced gyro sensors, and optimized image stabilization algorithms for both stills and video. In addition to 8-stopii compensation for stills, the new stabilization algorithm provides precise detection and control down to the pixel level, allowing you to unleash the full 61.0-megapixel potential of the sensor to capture even the finest details of your subjects. Sony's latest camera also offers an updated Pixel Shift Multi Shooting function, which uses the precise built-in stabilization system and image control, recording multiple images with pixel shifts that are later combined using a computer to achieve stunning resolution in a single shot. With the latest version of the Imaging Edge Desktop™ Ver.3.5 computer application, small pixel-level shifts, such as from changes in subject position or tree leaves, are automatically detected and corrected for perfect merging[xiv]. From the data, 16 images can be combined with approximately 240.8 million pixels (19,008 x 12,672 pixels)[xv], which is equivalent to approximately 963.2 million pixels. The Alpha 7R V also supports various options for precise external flash control for additional creative freedom. Furthermore, in challenging lighting conditions, the Alpha 7R V effectively suppresses unwanted flicker from artificial lighting[xvi] for both stills and video.
Additional features that provide more flexibility for stills include:
- Addition of Lossless RAW image compression and the ability to choose between different RAW format sizes and qualities.
- Significantly expanded focus and exposure bracketing.
- Creative Look settings for stills and video clips directly from the camera.
- High-quality HEIF images with highly efficient compression.
- Wide brightness range for large screen viewing.
Cinematic quality video capabilities
In addition to incredible photographic capabilities, the Alpha 7R V also offers advanced video recording capabilities. Sony's latest camera offers 8Ki 24/25p video, 4K video with 6.2K oversampling without binning[xvii], high-efficiency MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec, intra-frame recording, 10-bit 4:2:2 recording parameters, and many more features for high image quality and processing flexibility. Improved subject recognition is also used for unprecedented reliable real-time tracking, compensation for unwanted focus shifts, the ability to use camera metadata during post-production, and in-body image stabilization. In addition to in-body image stabilization in Active mode[xviii] for smoother recording on the go, the Alpha 7R V is compatible with select lenses[xix] with built-in image stabilization for even more stable framing and smooth recording.
Functionality and reliability
The Alpha 7R V combines exceptional reliability for your professional needs in both stills and video clips, with a compact, lightweight body. The Alpha 7R V offers a new 4-axis multi-angle LCD screen,[xx] which combines the convenience of a traditional tilt screen with the flexibility of side-opening at various angles, as well as a 9.44 million-dot electronic viewfinder. The Alpha 7R V also includes two slots compatible with CFexpress Type A/SDXC memory cards and an all-new touch-operated menu system that offers a wide variety of customizable functions.
The Alpha 7R V allows professionals to optimize their workflow thanks to updated connectivity options and improved support. Data can be transferred at high speed via Wi-Fi (802.11ac) 2x2 MIMO[xxi] or with a wired SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps connection via the USB-C® port. In addition to enabling efficient remote shooting and transfer of photos and video clips, the new USB streaming features support UVC/UAC, allowing direct streaming from the camera even at 4K (QFHD) resolution and audio.
Based on feedback from professionals, the Alpha 7R V includes improved heat dissipation for longer shooting times[xxii], an improved dust and moisture resistant design[xxiii], a durable magnesium alloy body, and other enhancements for maximum reliability in the most challenging environments.
The Alpha 7R V is also compatible with the new VX9529 screen protector, which preserves touch sensitivity while protecting the LCD screen from smudges and fingerprints.
Developed sustainably with professionals in mind
At every stage of the product lifecycle, measures have been taken to reduce its environmental footprint – from development, through raw material supply to manufacturing and packaging. Sony aims to inspire by setting an example of how available energy and resources can be used as efficiently as possible. The camera body is partially made from recycled plastic, including SORPLAS™[xxiv]. Furthermore, manufacturing takes place in a factory that uses renewable energy.
Sony is working to introduce plastic-free packaging materials[xxv] that provide sufficient shock protection. Non-woven materials of plant origin have been used for the product's packaging bags[xxvi]. All of this helps minimize adverse environmental impact.
Price and availability
The new Alpha 7R V will be available in November at an approximate retail price of BGN 8999.
More information about the Alpha 7R V can be found here.
Notes:
[i] Slow & Quick Motion is not available when recording XAVC HS 8K videos. [APS-C/S35 Shooting] is fixed to [Off]. The angle of view is approximately 1.2x.
[ii] CIPA standards. Pitch/yaw shake only. FE 50mm F1.2 GM. Long exposure NR off.
[iii] The camera may not accurately recognize all specified subjects under all conditions. In some cases, subjects other than the specified subject types may be erroneously recognized.
[iv] The camera may not accurately recognize all specified subjects under all conditions. Available subject settings are: Human, Animal/Bird, Animal, Bird, Insect, Car/Train, and Airplane. In some cases, subjects other than the specified subject types may be erroneously recognized.
[v] [Tracking] from the menu. Based on advanced artificial intelligence, including machine learning.
[vi] Up to 8 fps with AF/AE tracking when shooting in live view mode. The maximum continuous shooting speed depends on camera settings.
[vii] Some image distortion may occur when shooting fast-moving subjects, when panning, or during other rapid camera movement.
[viii] Up to 7 fps in "Hi+" continuous shooting mode. The maximum continuous shooting speed depends on camera settings.
[ix] Using Sony CEA-G160T CFexpress Type A memory card. "Hi+" continuous shooting mode. The actual number of shots may vary depending on shooting conditions.
[x] Not applicable to E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS and E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS LE lenses or A-mount lenses. Full-time DMF is not available for continuous shooting in AF-C or AF-A mode (excluding Lo) or when using the SEL70200GM lens in AF-C mode.
[xi] A-mount lenses are not supported.
[xii] Expandable to ISO 50-80 and 40000-102400 for stills.
[xiii] Sony test conditions. Stills.
[xiv] As of product announcement in October 2022. Available models: Alpha 1 and Alpha 7R V.
[xv] The image size after combining is approximately 60.2 million (9,504 × 6,336) pixels for 4 frames and approximately 240.8 million pixels (19,008 x 12,672) for 16 frames.
[xvi] Only 100 Hz or 120 Hz flicker is detected. Continuous shooting speed may decrease. AF phase detection coverage is reduced. Anti-flicker shooting is not available for silent shooting, BULB exposure, or video recording.
[xvii] When shooting in Super 35mm at 30p or 24/25p.
[xviii] Slight image crop in Active Mode. Active mode is not available when recording in XAVC HS 8K or when using a frame rate of 120 (100) fps.
[xix] Refer to the Sony support website for information on compatible lenses: https://www.sony.net/dics/7rm5-s/ Some lenses may require a software update. Compensation effectiveness may vary depending on the lens used.
[xx] Screen movement may be limited when cables are connected to the camera's connectors.
[xxi] Wi-Fi® communication is at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. 5 GHz communication may be restricted in some countries and regions.
[xxii] Sony internal tests with [Auto Power OFF Temp.] set to [High].
[xxiii] Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof
[xxiv] Depending on the production date, SORPLAS™ may not be used for some of the parts.
[xxv] Does not include materials used in coatings and adhesive materials.
[xxvi] Does not include materials used in coatings and adhesive materials. During certain production periods, natural non-woven materials may not be available.
