Table of Contents
amazon Sony A9 reviews
Taking advantage of the A6000’s 11fps snapshot, the A6300 offers a better sensor in low light conditions and some other fine-tuning. The introduction of the A6500 offers a larger front end (LSI) and anti-vibration on the body (IBIS). Meanwhile, the A7S and A7S ii are machines that allow users to view in the dark with excellent ISO range when operating in low light conditions and in low light situations. The A7Rii owns a compact full-frame body with a large image size, suitable for large-scale portraits.
However, to date, the only thing lacking in Sony products is a full frame camera capable of high-speed motion capture with large files, excellent autofocusing and shutter speed. Super fast. So, with the following parameters and features are you satisfied? 24MP, 20 FPS, 2-buffer, 30ms shutter lag, two memory card slots, new battery, full-frame, ultra-bright shooting with new sensor technology, new EVF with 3.6M pixel with refresh rate of 120P.
Reduce Shutter Lag Time (Shutter Lag)
The camera with the best shutter lag in recent years is the Canon 1DX and 1DXii with a lag time of 35 milliseconds. However, this new Sony A9 camera broke the 35th record with a time of 30 milliseconds without vibration or noise. Actually it was very fast, when Patrick used this machine and shot at the SonyOpen.
Capture 20 frames per second (20 fps) with electronic shutter
You can shoot at 20 fps for any Sony FE lens. When using a lens like the FE70-200mm f / 2.8GM, you can capture 20 fps without any noise. And if you choose any A-mount lens, such as the Sony 300mm f / 2.8 G or the 500mm f / 4 G, the speed will drop to just 10 fps, but it’s still ideal to beat the opposite. Other cameras such as the D500 or 7Dii are two APS-Cs when the picture is taken with a full-frame body.
Do not doubt the maximum shutter speed 1/32000 because A9 can really do that. A9 is capable of capturing multiple images without the need to use ND filters to slow down. A common phenomenon when shooting at high speed is that among the shots there is an EVF screen or optical viewfinder of the DSLR darkened by the shutter shutter for shooting, even with speed cameras. This high flashing phenomenon is always present in milliseconds.
However, with the Sony A9 camera, even at 20 fps, you can still see the whole scene 100% of the time. And even if you do not make a sound, you can still tell if you have captured the image or not by flashing the EVF LED.
where can you get a Sony A9 online
Sony a9 Full Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera (Body Only) (ILCE9/B): Buy it now
Sony a9 24.2MP Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera Body + 64GB Memory and Battery Grip Super Bundle: Buy it now
Autofocus System
Fast Hybrid AF
The Sony A9’s autofocus system is one of its standout features, utilizing a Fast Hybrid AF system that combines 693 phase-detection points with 425 contrast-detection points. This system provides fast, accurate, and reliable focusing, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects and dynamic scenes. The wide coverage of phase-detection points ensures precise focus across a large portion of the frame.
Real-Time Eye Autofocus
A notable innovation in the A9 is its Real-Time Eye Autofocus feature. This advanced technology tracks and maintains focus on the subject’s eyes, even during high-speed shooting. This is particularly valuable for portrait and wildlife photographers who require precise focus on the subject’s eyes to achieve compelling, sharp images.
Continuous Autofocus Performance
The A9’s autofocus performance excels in continuous shooting scenarios. It offers a maximum continuous shooting speed of 20 frames per second (fps) with the electronic shutter and 10 fps with the mechanical shutter. This high-speed capability is complemented by the autofocus system’s ability to maintain focus during rapid bursts, making it suitable for action photography, sports, and other fast-paced environments.
Viewfinder and LCD
Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)
The Sony A9 features a 3.69-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF), offering a bright, clear, and detailed view of the scene. The high resolution of the EVF ensures that photographers can accurately assess focus, composition, and exposure in real-time. The EVF’s refresh rate is impressive, providing smooth and lag-free performance, even during high-speed shooting.
Rear LCD Screen
The rear of the A9 is equipped with a 3-inch LCD touchscreen with a resolution of 1.44 million dots. The screen offers excellent clarity and color accuracy, with touch functionality allowing for intuitive navigation of the camera’s menus and settings. The LCD is adjustable, featuring a tilting design that facilitates shooting from various angles.
Customization and Usability
Both the EVF and LCD screen are highly customizable, allowing users to configure display settings to suit their preferences. The camera’s menu system is comprehensive, offering a wide range of options and settings that can be tailored to different shooting scenarios. The touchscreen functionality enhances usability, providing a user-friendly interface for adjusting settings and reviewing images.
Video Capabilities
4K Video Recording
The Sony A9 is capable of recording 4K video at up to 30 fps. It utilizes the full width of the sensor to capture high-resolution video with minimal cropping, resulting in excellent detail and image quality. The camera supports various video recording formats, including XAVC S, which provides high-quality video compression for professional use.
S-Log3 and HDR Support
For advanced video production, the A9 offers S-Log3 gamma and HDR (High Dynamic Range) support. S-Log3 provides a flat color profile that maximizes dynamic range and allows for greater flexibility in color grading during post-production. HDR support enhances the camera’s ability to capture a wide range of tones and colors, contributing to more dynamic and visually impactful video content.
Continuous Autofocus in Video
The A9’s continuous autofocus system performs exceptionally well in video recording. Real-Time Eye Autofocus is also available in video mode, ensuring that subjects remain sharply in focus throughout a recording. This feature is particularly useful for dynamic scenes and moving subjects, providing professional-level focus performance in video content.
Connectivity and Features
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
The Sony A9 includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, facilitating seamless transfer of images and video to compatible devices. The camera supports the PlayMemories Mobile app, which allows for remote control and image sharing from smartphones and tablets. Bluetooth connectivity provides additional convenience for location tagging and remote operation.
Dual SD Card Slots
The A9 features dual SD card slots, supporting both SD UHS-I and UHS-II cards. This configuration allows for flexible storage options, including simultaneous recording to both cards for backup or separate use for photos and videos. The dual card slots enhance the camera’s capacity for high-speed continuous shooting and video recording.
Customizable Controls
The camera is equipped with an array of customizable buttons and dials, allowing users to tailor the controls to their shooting preferences. The extensive customization options enhance usability and efficiency, enabling quick adjustments to settings without navigating through the menu system.
Battery Life and Power
Battery Performance
The Sony A9 uses the NP-FZ100 battery, which offers improved performance compared to previous battery models. The camera’s battery life is rated for approximately 650 shots per charge, according to CIPA standards. This rating provides sufficient power for extended shooting sessions, though users who engage in heavy shooting or video recording may need to carry additional batteries.
Battery Management
The A9 supports in-camera charging via USB, which provides added convenience for charging the battery while on the go. Additionally, the camera’s battery compartment is easily accessible, allowing for quick battery changes during shoots.
User Experience
Ease of Use
The Sony A9’s interface is designed to cater to both professional and enthusiast photographers. The camera’s menus are well-organized, and the customizable controls allow users to adapt the camera to their specific needs. The combination of a high-resolution EVF and touchscreen LCD contributes to an intuitive and enjoyable shooting experience.
Performance in the Field
The A9 performs exceptionally well in various shooting scenarios, from fast-paced sports events to low-light environments. The camera’s autofocus system and high-speed shooting capabilities provide reliable performance, while its image quality and video features meet the demands of professional photographers and videographers.
Learning Curve
While the A9 offers a range of advanced features, its learning curve is manageable for users familiar with mirrorless cameras or high-end DSLRs. The camera’s extensive customization options may require some time to fully master, but the rewards in terms of performance and flexibility are significant.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Autofocus: The A9’s Fast Hybrid AF system, with its 693 phase-detection points and Real-Time Eye Autofocus, provides unmatched accuracy and speed, especially beneficial for action and sports photography.
- High-Speed Shooting: The ability to shoot at up to 20 fps with the electronic shutter and 10 fps with the mechanical shutter allows photographers to capture fast-moving subjects with ease.
- Impressive Image Quality: The full-frame Exmor RS CMOS sensor, paired with the BIONZ X processor, delivers high-resolution images with excellent detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
- Advanced Video Features: The A9 supports 4K video recording, S-Log3, and HDR, catering to professional video production needs with high-quality video and color grading flexibility.
- Durable Build: The magnesium alloy body with weather-sealing ensures the A9 is robust and reliable in various shooting conditions.
- Dual SD Card Slots: The dual card slots provide flexibility for backup and separate storage of photos and videos, enhancing workflow efficiency.
Cons:
- Price Point: The Sony A9 is positioned as a high-end, professional camera, which means it comes with a premium price tag. This may be a consideration for budget-conscious photographers.
- Battery Life: While the NP-FZ100 battery offers improved performance, users engaging in extensive shooting or video recording might find the battery life limiting and may need to carry spares.
- Size and Weight: Although lighter than some DSLRs, the A9’s size and weight may still be noticeable, especially for photographers who prioritize compact gear.
- Complex Menu System: The extensive range of features and customization options can make the camera’s menu system complex and potentially overwhelming for some users.
- Limited Touchscreen Functionality: While the LCD touchscreen is useful, it is not as advanced as some competitors, lacking features like full touch control for menu navigation and focus point selection.
Conclusion
The Sony A9 is a groundbreaking mirrorless camera that excels in speed, autofocus, and overall performance. Its combination of a high-resolution full-frame sensor, advanced autofocus system, and high-speed shooting capabilities make it an excellent choice for professional photographers and videographers who demand top-tier performance in challenging conditions.
While the A9’s price point may be high, it offers significant value for those who need its specific features, particularly its superior autofocus and high-speed shooting abilities. Its build quality, image and video performance, and robust design cater to a wide range of photographic and videographic needs, making it a versatile tool for capturing both still images and video content.
For users who prioritize resolution, video features, or specific brand preferences, there are competitive alternatives such as the Sony A7R III, Canon EOS R, and Nikon Z6. However, for those seeking the ultimate in speed and autofocus precision, the Sony A9 remains a standout choice in the mirrorless camera market.