Just a couple weeks ago, Sony announced their newest addition for their iconic lineup of Alpha mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras with the Alpha 7R V (model ILCE-7Rm5). Scheduled with a release date sometime in December, the Alpha 7R V will come with the highest resolution image sensor combined with a new Artificial Intelligence processing unit dedicated to AI-based image recognition. This is the first out of any of the Sony Alpha series cameras that are like this. Additionally, the Alpha R7 V features the famous BIONZ XR image processing engine, which is a first in Sony’s “R” full frame series and can provide up to 8 times more processing power for your camera. This innovative blend of a high-resolution sensor, the new AI based image recognition processing unit, and the mighty BIONZ XR image processing engine opens doors for subject recognition and capture for both photography and videography.
Sony’s new Alpha 7R V full frame mirrorless camera shows off some serious imaging quality giving a magnificent 61.0 megapixel for still images. This camera also features the best stabilization system out of any of Sony’s Alpha series cameras with 8 step stabilization. You also get refined 8K movie recording, a 4 axis multi vari-angle LCD monitor display, high speed synchronization functions, and user-friendly operations and workflow integration, together creating one of the most ideal top shelf resolution cameras for professionals.
Resolution & Stabilization
Sony’s Alpha 7R series is known for their enhanced imaging quality, resolution, and detail. The Alpha 7R V takes this to another level with the incorporation of Sony’s newest BIONZ XR image processing engine giving you more detail from every shot, which not only will dazzle you with stunningly sharp and vivid images, but also increases the versatility when working edits during postproduction.
The Alpha 7R V was created for detail. The BIONZ XR image processing engine works in conjunction with a 35mm full frame back illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor that produces a whopping 61.0 effective megapixels. The BIONZ XR image processing engine enables maximum resolution potential from the Exmor R CMOS image sensor which allows for high resolution in low sensitivity settings. You can now shoot ISO settings from ISO 100 to ISO 32000 when shooting either photography or videography and wide dynamic range with 15 stops for photos.
The Alpha 7R V’s high precision image stabilization unit has been completely revamped with updated advanced gyro sensors and newly optimized image stabilization algorithms for both photos and video recording. With the updated image stabilization, the Alpha 7R maximizes the potential of the sensors 61.0-megapixel resolution with precise detection and control down to even a single pixel, thanks to up to an 8-step compensation effect for photos and the new stabilization algorithm.
Along with the newly enhanced stabilization control, the Alpha 7R V also offers upgraded features such as Pixel Shift Multi Shooting. This utilizes the powerful precision in body image stabilization system control to capture multiple pixel shifted images that can later be composited using a computer to produce astonishingly detailed resolutions in a single image.
For postproduction professionals, the latest version of Imaging Edge Desktop version 3.5 computer application allows you to take small pixel level movements in your photos and it will automatically detect and correct it for optimized composition. Situations like this can occur with slight shifts in your subjects’ positions or as the wind gently blows the leaves on a tree causing movement while shooting. Getting deeper into how enhanced your images can become, the Alpha 7R V using the Imaging Edge Desktop takes 16 image composites with about 240.8 million pixels (or 19,008 x 12,672 pixels) which can be produced from data that is equal to roughly 963.2 million pixels. The Alpha 7R V also supports control for precision external flash for added versatility. When shooting in rapidly changing light or challenging environments, the Alpha 7R V successfully restrains flickering from artificial lights from distorting stills and video recording.
Some additional features that expand the versatility of the Alpha 7R V includes:
- Addition of Lossless RAW image compression and selectable RAW image sizes and quality
- Greatly expanded focus and exposure bracketing
- Creative Look settings for photography and videography
- High quality HEIF images with compression efficiency
- Wide brightness range for large screen viewing
Better AF (Auto Focus) Accuracy
With the new artificial intelligence processing unit with deep learning, the Alpha 7R V features next generation auto focus real time recognition with improved accuracy and a larger subject recognition range. The advanced AI processing takes detailed information with estimated human form and posing to take recognition accuracy to a new level, far beyond what your typical face and eye recognition features can do, which are found in most other cameras. Real-time Recognition AF in the Alpha 7R V now expands to include animals, vehicles, and even insects as well as humans. You also get continuous shooting at up to 10 fps with AutoFocus / AutoExposure tracking.
Sony’s Alpha 7R V also improved many favorite features from other Alpha series cameras that are now included in the Alpha 7R V.
- Tenacious real time tracking
- Faster and more precise wide area, high density auto focus system
- Silent, vibration free shooting up to 7 fps
- Continuously shoot up to 583 compressed RAW images at high speed
For the pros, Sony also included in the Alpha 7R V focus features that support high resolution full time DMF (direct manual focus), and focus bracketing, which are a must for applying focus stacked images.
Cinematic Video
There is no question that the Alpha 7R V is extremely capable for top shelf imaging quality and that extends to video as well. The Alpha 7R V delivers breathtaking stunning video at 8K 24/25p video, 4K oversampled from 6.2K without binning. With a high efficiency MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec, all intra recording, and 10-bit 4:2:2 recording for superb imaging and versatility when working with postproduction edits. Video features in the 7R V include evolved subject recognition for real time tracking, breathing compensation, and enables the use of the cameras metadata for post processing and advanced image stabilization. You also get In Body Active Mode image stabilization for smoother imaging when you’re shooting while on the move or being active. There is even more added stabilization when used with one of the select compatible lenses that include built in stabilization features.
Reliability, Communication, Design, & Review
Sony’s Alpha 7R V is designed for professionals seeking top notch still and video quality from a compact and lightweight camera. With a gorgeous 9.44 million dot electric viewfinder, a new 4 axis multi angle LCD monitor that gives you the benefits of the classic tilting monitor with a side opening vari-angle option, the Alpha 7R V produces amazing stills and video without the need to bend and twist your body to get the best angles, always keeping the electronic viewfinder within your peripherals. There is 2 CFexpress Type A/SDXC compatible media slots and a new system with touch control and tons of customizable functions.
Optimize workflows with high speed data transfers over Wi-Fi (802.11ac)2×2 MIMO or a wired superspeed 10 Gbps USB-C connection. The Alpha 7R V has remote shooting with photo and video file transferring. New USB streaming features support UVC/UAC, which allows for direct streaming from your camera, even in 4K (QFHD) resolution with audio.
When videographers speak out, Sony listens. The Alpha 7R V now includes improved heat dissipation for extended video shoots, keeping your camera cool and preventing it from overheating. Many cameras can overheat while recording video which can cause the camera to power off, potentially ruining a video shoot. There is an upgraded dust and moisture resistant design featuring durable magnesium alloy chassis and other refinements to ensure reliability even when shooting in the harshest of environments.
When you consider the capabilities of this extraordinary camera, in both features, design, and specifications, and combine them with the reliability and durability of the materials, engineering and construction of the Alpha 7R V, you get a top-grade camera that pushes past the boundaries of other professional grade cameras. Sony also has their finger on sustainability and ensures the best materials are used for the consumer and our lovely planet. The Alpha 7R V is not a cheap camera with a starting price just under $4k, but when you compare the 7R V to other full frame mirrorless cameras which can range almost double that in price but with lesser capabilities, the Sony Alpha 7R V delivers value as much as it delivers ability.
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