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Sony has also addressed one of the potential issues with high-resolution sensors in small cameras, and that’s workflow. Huge files can quickly overwhelm storage systems, but new compressed Raw options cut down file sizes significantly while maintaining excellent image quality. Anyone shooting thousands of frames during wildlife or sports assignments will appreciate the savings in both storage and editing time. Handling has also evolved. The deeper grip makes a difference when using larger telephoto lenses, helping the camera feel secure in the hand. The four-axis screen combines the flexibility of a fully articulated display with the practicality of a tilting screen. For wildlife photographers working at awkward angles, landscape specialists shooting low to the ground or those working with video, it’s one of the most versatile screen designs available. The electronic viewfinder is equally impressive. With a resolution of 9.44 million dots, it offers exceptional clarity and detail. Electronic viewfinders have improved dramatically over the past decade, and this is among the finest examples currently available. Sony has recognised that many photographers increasingly shoot video alongside making stills, and the A7R VI is one of the most capable hybrid cameras on the market.
ACTION REPLAY Are you capturing action on location (left)? Or shooting sports portraits in a studio (above)? The Sony does it all so well
Electronic viewfinders have improved dramatically over the past decade, and this is among the finest available
One fast zoom lens to rule them all
The goal of every fast zoom has been a single lens to replace a set of fast primes, but Sony’s FE 50-150mm f/2 GM comes the closest yet, delivering the image quality and shallow depth- of-field of prime lenses alongside the flexibility of a professional zoom. It means less lens changing and more time concentrating on the moment. Covering a focal range from standard to medium telephoto, the lens is aimed at portrait, wedding, event and sports photographers who demand both speed and versatility. The headline feature is its constant
f/2 aperture, making it a full stop brighter than traditional f/2.8 pro zooms. That extra light can be invaluable in low-light conditions and also allows for even greater subject separation and beautifully blurred backgrounds. Image quality is superb. The lens is packed with advanced XA, Super ED and ED elements designed to maximise sharpness while also minimising chromatic aberrations and distortion. The lens remains crisp throughout the zoom range, even when used wide open at f/2.
Sony’s latest XD Linear Motors deliver quick, accurate and near- silent autofocus. Combined with its advanced subject recognition autofocus systems, the lens is more than capable of tracking people, wildlife and other subjects in action with confidence. Of course, performance of this level comes with compromises. At around 1.3kg, it’s no lightweight, and its premium specification places it in professional territory when it comes to its £3699 price. But it is one of the most useful lenses in Sony’s system.
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