@photonewspn | photographynews.co.uk
GEAR / 41
The camera records 8K video at up to 30p, oversampled from around 8.2K capture for maximum detail. More importantly for most, it offers oversampled 4K recording at up to 60p and 4K/120p slow motion in 10- bit 4:2:2 quality. But sadly there’s no 240fps option at all, no internal Raw video or open gate capture. Rolling shutter, previously a weakness for high-resolution Sony cameras, has been dramatically improved thanks to the stacked-sensor architecture. Autofocus is superb while shooting video, using the same AI- powered subject recognition system as the stills mode. Image stabilisation is rated at up to 8.5 stops, helping photographers and videographers achieve sharper handheld results. But not everything is perfect. The camera still relies on Sony’s expensive CFexpress Type A cards to achieve maximum performance, the menus are still overly complicated and its £4399 body-only price places it firmly in high-end and professional territory. Yet these criticisms feel rather minor when viewed against the camera’s overall achievement. The Sony A7R VI is no longer simply a specialist camera aimed at landscape photographers and studio professionals. It’s a versatile machine capable of handling wildlife, action, portraiture, commercial work and high-quality video production, all without feeling compromised in any particular area.
BIRD IS THE WORD Fitted with the new 100-400mm lens, the Sony A7R VI steals the show
Long lens legend
Optically, it delivers exactly what photographers expect from a G Master optic. Advanced XA and ED glass elements help maintain excellent sharpness throughout the frame while minimising chromatic aberration. Images remain crisp even at 400mm and wide open, while out-of-focus areas are rendered smoothly for attractive background blur. Optical image stabilisation allows photographers to get sharp handheld shots at longer focal lengths, and the lens is compatible with Sony’s teleconverters for greater reach. Handling has been refined with a set of customisable focus-hold buttons, a dedicated aperture ring and weather sealing for use in outdoor environments. Downsides are weight and cost. At around 1.84kg and £4399, this is a serious professional lens. Yet it does offer a blend of reach, speed and image quality.
Sony has given one of its most popular telephoto zooms a major overhaul, and the new FE 100-400mm f/4.5 GM OSS looks set to become a favourite with wildlife, sports and action photographers. The headline upgrade is the move to a constant f/4.5 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range. Unlike the previous 100-400mm G Master, which dropped to f/5.6 at the long end, the new lens maintains its brightness all the way to 400mm. That extra light can make a real difference when shooting fast-moving wildlife or action in challenging conditions. Sony has also adopted a fully internal zoom design, meaning the lens no longer extends as you zoom. This helps maintain balance, improves handling and gives the lens a more robust feel in the field. Autofocus performance has received a significant boost too. Four XD Linear Motors power the focusing system, and
Verdict
The Sony A7R VI represents the most complete evolution of the A7R concept yet. It delivers extraordinary image quality while introducing the speed, autofocus and responsiveness that many photographers once believed impossible from a camera with nearly 67 megapixels. For anyone seeking maximum detail without sacrificing versatility, it sets a new benchmark for the world of high-resolution photography. Features 24/25 It has the lot apart from video Raw and super-duper high-speed video frame rates Handling 23/25 The basic controls have been improved, but the menus
SWITCH CRAFT There are lots of control switches and a drop-in filter holder Sony claims that focusing is up to three times faster than before. In use, subject tracking is confident, locking onto birds, other wildlife and moving subjects with ease. Paired with the latest Sony bodies, the lens takes advantage of advanced AI- driven autofocus systems.
remain deep and complex Performance 25/25 Simply
incredible image quality in stills and video. Speed and resolution! Value for money 24/25 Sure, it’s expensive, but it does it all at a cheaper price than the A1 II Overall rating 96/100 An amazing camera that raises the bar for mirrorless with plenty of resolution and speed Pros Incredible image quality, improved colour in video Cons No video Raw, open gate or 240fps, pricey
SMART BUY It’s true that it’s far from a cheap lens, but the new Sony zoom is an investment
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