Sony launches two new Alpha 7C series cameras

 

These are the Alpha 7C R with a 61MPⁱ high-resolution sensor and the Alpha 7C II with cutting-edge still and video capture capabilities

 

August 29, 2023 – Today, Sony announced the launch of two new additions to the α7C series of compact full-frame interchangeable-lens cameras – the Alpha 7C II and the Alpha 7C R.

 

The Alpha 7C II features a full-frame sensor with approximately 33.0 effective megapixels and offers state-of-the-art still and video features in a compact and lightweight design (approximately 12cm x 7cm x 6cm and weighing approximately 513 grams). This is a second-generation version of the α7C series, known for offering a combination of high-tech features and functions in a compact size, making it ideal for many different shooting scenarios, such as travel and street photography.

The Alpha 7C R is a new compact full-frame interchangeable-lens camera that delivers remarkably high resolution and rich color reproduction thanks to its full-frame sensor with approximately 61.0 effective megapixels – the same sensor used in the Alpha 7R V, but built into a compact and lightweight body (size and weight similar to the “Alpha 7C II”ⁱⁱ, - approximately 513 grams). Thanks to the combination of extremely high image resolution, mobility, and lightness, this camera allows you to easily capture high-quality images in various situations and styles, such as portrait photography, wildlife, and landscape photography.

Both models are equipped with an AI processing unit and BIONZ XR® processors, used in Sony's latest interchangeable-lens cameras like the Alpha 7R V and Alpha 6700. Real-time Recognition AF accurately recognizes various subjects, and built-in 5-axis in-body image stabilization provides a seven-stop advantage for stills. As for video capabilities, both models support high-quality 4:2:2 10-bit video recording up to 4K60pⁱⁱⁱ and Sony's widely acclaimed S-Cinetone technology for footage with rich cinematic quality. Additionally, they feature built-in Active Mode image stabilization, AI-based auto-framing, digital audio interface support, and other functions to assist those who want to shoot high-quality video.

“At Sony, we are constantly striving to make it easier for creators of photographic and video content. With the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R, we are enabling them to take advantage of a new tool to get the highest quality images they capture with mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras,” said Yann Salmon-Legagneur, Director of Product and Solutions Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe.

With the growing demand for various ways to send and share recorded content on social media and networks, more and more creators are looking for a combination of compact size and high-tech features for their mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras. The Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R are compact, high-quality, mobile, and offer the ability to capture expressive footage – thus Sony aims to meet the creative needs of a wide range of content creators.

Key Features of the Alpha 7C II

• With the help of the full-frame Exmor R® CMOS sensor with back-illumination and approximately 33.0 effective megapixels and the latest BIONZ XR® processor, excellent image characteristics are achieved. When shooting both still photographs and video clips, users can easily achieve high-quality footage in a wide variety of different situations, including on the road or for everyday shots.
• Compared to the Alpha 7 IV, which measures approximately 13 cm x 9.6 cm x 8.1 cm and weighs 698 grams, the Alpha 7C II is up to 22% lighter and up to 45% smaller in volume.
• The standard ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 51200 for both stills and video clips (extended sensitivity ISO 50 to 204800 for photographs), allowing for high-sensitivity shooting without any noise.

 

 

Key Features of the ALPHA 7C R

• With the help of the full-frame Exmor R® CMOS sensor with back-illumination and approximately 61.0 effective megapixels and the latest BIONZ XR® processor, high resolution and image definition are achieved.
• Compared to the Alpha 7R V, which measures approximately 13 cm x 9.9 cm x 8 cm and weighs 725 grams, the Alpha 7C R is up to 29% lighter and up to 53% smaller in volume.
• The standard ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 32000 for both stills and video clips (extended sensitivity ISO 50 to 102400 for photographs).
• With built-in up to 7.0-stop^iv optical 5-axis image stabilization, even the slightest blur at a 1-pixel level is detected and corrected.
• Pixel Shift Multi Shooting technology is used, where multiple images are taken and synthesized by a PC to create an image with a sense of high resolution.
• In combination with the optional GP-X2 grip, included with the Alpha 7C R^v, you can shoot comfortably with a stable grip, even when shooting for extended periods or using a telephoto lens.

 

 

Common Features of Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R

1. Compact Size and Mobility

Both models are easy to operate and carry. With the compact size, combined with the FE 16-35 f/2.8 G Master IIMM wide-angle zoom lens, excellent image expressiveness, high-speed AF, and F2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range are achieved – distinctive features of the G Master™ series. Users can choose their favorite lens from Sony's wide range of E-mount lenses, with over 70 models offering various possibilities for creative expression achievable only with full-frame lenses, for both stills and videos.

2. Improved AF Performance with Better Subject Recognition Thanks to Built-in AI Processor

Thanks to the AI processor also used in the α7R V, you can recognize subjects with high precision using Real-time Recognition AF technology. For example, when shooting a person, even if they assume a difficult-to-focus pose or their face is hidden, you can track your subject with high precision using pose analysis technology. In addition to human and animal recognition offered by the α7C series, birds, insects, cars, trains, and airplanes can now be recognized with the same high precision.

3. Advanced Video Capabilities

The Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R condense detailed, high-resolution video data equivalent to 7K and 6K, respectively, and can produce 4K quality video. With S-Log3, which supports an extended dynamic range of 14+ stops^vi, you get richly reproduced colors with minimal overexposure and underexposure even in high-contrast scenes. Also, in Log mode, user-imported LUTs are displayed on the camera screen, allowing the user to shoot while checking the finished footage in post-production. Additionally, the models offer S-Cinetone™ – a unique Sony-developed technology that can create a cinematic look for footage directly from the camera without further processing. Based on Sony's Cinema Line series technologies, the S-Cinetone function provides natural tones in the middle of the spectrum, which are important for reproducing beautiful skin and achieving cinematic quality. The camera offers the Creative Look function, which allows you to easily change the look and feel of your videos and photos.

4. Functionality and Connectivity

Thanks to the rotating touchscreen LCD display, you operate intuitively with the latest touch menu. In addition to the front control dial, which the user can customize with their favorite functions, the camera has a stills/video/S&Q mode switch, a high XGA resolution viewfinder, and other features for easier camera operation. The camera features built-in 7.0-stop^iv optical 5-axis image stabilization for greater stability during operation.

In terms of connectivity, the camera is now compatible with the Creators' App^vii smartphone application, which allows you to easily upload videos and photos taken with the camera to a cloud service and enables remote control and transfer of photos from the camera to mobile devices.

5. Design Based on Environmental Principles

Over the past 11 years, Sony has replaced approximately 395 tons^viii of new plastic with recycled plastic for the production of its digital cameras and camcorders. Recycled materials, including SORPLAS^{TM ix}, are used for the camera body, reducing environmental impact without compromising functionality. In addition to Sony's Screen Reader^x function, which reads menu screens and video playback for easier operation, a new Magnify Display function has been added to the menu to support the creative work of various content creators.

 

Price and Availability

The new Alpha 7C II will be available in September 2023 at a price:

Camera body only: BGN 4799

Camera with 28-60mm lens: BGN 5399

 

The new Alpha 7C R will be available in October 2023 from various authorized Sony representatives at a price:

Camera body only: BGN 7399

 

Notes:

ⁱ Approximate number of effective megapixels.

ⁱⁱ Weight includes battery and memory card.

ⁱⁱⁱ ALPHA 7C II:QFHD (3840×2160). 4K60p/50p recording is only available in Super 35mm mode. ALPHA 7C R: The angle of view is approximately 1.2x when recording video clips with 4K 60/50p parameters.

^iv Conforms to CIPA standards, vertical and horizontal displacement with FE 50mm F1.2 GM lens used, long exposure, and noise reduction off.

^v The optional grip for "ALPHA 7C II" is sold separately.

^vi When shooting with S-Log3. Sony's internal measurement.

^vii Check service and application availability by region.

^viii According to Sony. Recycled materials were used for the product body and accessories from April 2012 to March 2023.

^ix Depending on the manufacturing date, SORPLAS™ may not have been used for some parts.

^x Supported languages vary depending on the sales region.