Sony Alpha 7R II

amazon Sony Alpha 7R II reviews

Design

The design of the A7R II is still based on the A7’s chassis. Machine size 127x96x60 mm, weighs 625 grams, the outer shell is made of high-grade magnesium alloy for dust and moisture.

The front of the A7R II is made entirely from metal and the camera mount feels solid. The machine uses E-mount bracket and is compatible with a variety of Sony E and FE lenses, including Zeiss lenses. The handle is also larger for easy grip with the shutter button pressed to the grip, while in the other A-series the shutter button is on the top.

The back of the screen is a 3-inch, 1,228-megapixel LCD, which gives better color and detail, but displays in outdoor conditions are not as expected. Next is the 0.5 inch 2.359 million pixel electronic viewfinder for pretty good color. The buttons as well as the select wheel are collapsed and arranged quite reasonably.

Function

Sony says the A7R II uses a built-in 5-axis SteadyShot built-in sensor. The sensor shakes as you move the camera and the ultrafast AF Hybrid system boosts the focus by 40% over the previous model, with 399 focus points, covering 45% of the frame and 25% Auto focus point contrast.

The A7R II is coated with an AR (anti-reflective) layer and optical filter, coupled with Sony’s BIONZ X image processing technology to deliver the best image quality and sharpness in any thing. The machine can record standard 4K UHD video format XAVC S 100 Mbps 30p / 25p / 24p and full HD 1080p 50Mbps. Continuous shooting speed of 5 frames per second.

The Sony Alpha A7R II is equipped with an XGA Oled Tru-Finder viewfinder with 0.78x magnification with 4-lens optics and spherical side-by-side illumination, giving you stunning viewing angles through viewfinder and Sharp focus, clearer. Sony claims 0.78x is the largest magnification ever to a digital camera.

The A7R II has a shutter life of 500,000 times and promises less vibration than previous models. The new braking system reduces the shake before / after to about 50%.

This helps to produce sharper images as the camera shake is significantly reduced. The A7R II has a “quiet” shooting mode, which uses electronic shutter to eliminate all vibration when taking pictures.

ISO sensitivity is also increased to a maximum of 102,400 with Wi-Fi / NFC wireless connectivity for fast connectivity to peripheral devices through PlayMemories Mobile software.

where can you get a Sony Alpha 7R II online

Sony a7R II Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera, Body Only (Black) (ILCE7RM2/B): Buy it now

Sony Alpha A7R II 4K Wi-Fi Digital Camera Body with FE 24-240mm Lens + 64GB Card + Battery + Charger + Case + Flash + LED + Tripod + Kit: Buy it now

Photo quality

With the Fullframe sensor, the camera can deliver crisp and true-to-life images of up to 7952×5304 pixels, 300dpi pixel density, fast and accurate focusing speed.

The quality of photos taken at low ISO levels is quite good, but from ISO 1600 or above the image will start to see noise. Fortunately, even at ISO the maximum amount of noise on the image remains at an acceptable level.

Sensor and Image Quality

42.4-Megapixel Back-Illuminated Sensor

At the heart of the Sony Alpha 7R II is a 42.4-megapixel full-frame Exmor R back-illuminated CMOS sensor. This sensor is a significant advancement over the previous generation, offering improved light-gathering capabilities and reduced noise levels. The back-illuminated design allows more light to reach the sensor, resulting in better performance in low-light conditions and enhanced image quality.

Dynamic Range and Color Reproduction

The A7R II excels in dynamic range and color reproduction, delivering images with impressive detail and tonal range. The camera’s ability to capture a wide range of tones, from deep shadows to bright highlights, makes it ideal for high-contrast scenes. The colors are rendered accurately and vibrantly, with a natural look that is pleasing to the eye. The A7R II’s dynamic range and color accuracy are particularly beneficial for landscape and portrait photographers who demand high-quality images.

Low-Light Performance and ISO Sensitivity

The low-light performance of the A7R II is outstanding, thanks to its wide ISO range of 100-25,600, expandable to ISO 50-102,400. The camera produces clean and detailed images at higher ISO settings, with minimal noise and excellent retention of detail. The combination of the back-illuminated sensor and advanced noise reduction algorithms ensures that the A7R II performs admirably in challenging lighting conditions, making it a versatile tool for various shooting scenarios.

Image Stabilization

The A7R II features 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which compensates for five types of camera shake: pitch, yaw, roll, horizontal shift, and vertical shift. This stabilization system is highly effective, allowing photographers to capture sharp images at slower shutter speeds and reducing the need for a tripod in many situations. The IBIS also benefits videographers by providing smoother handheld footage.

Autofocus System

Fast Hybrid AF System

The Sony Alpha 7R II boasts a fast hybrid autofocus (AF) system that combines 399 phase-detection AF points and 25 contrast-detection AF points, covering 45% of the image area. This extensive AF coverage ensures accurate and reliable focusing across a wide range of shooting conditions. The phase-detection AF points provide fast and precise focusing, while the contrast-detection AF points enhance accuracy in low-light situations.

Eye AF and Tracking

One of the standout features of the A7R II’s autofocus system is Eye AF, which detects and focuses on a subject’s eye with remarkable precision. This feature is particularly useful for portrait photographers, as it ensures that the subject’s eyes are consistently in sharp focus. Additionally, the camera offers reliable subject tracking, maintaining focus on moving subjects even in complex and dynamic scenes.

Low-Light AF Performance

The A7R II performs admirably in low-light conditions, with the autofocus system maintaining accuracy and speed even in challenging lighting environments. The camera’s ability to lock onto subjects quickly and accurately in low light is a testament to its advanced AF system and overall performance.

Video Capabilities

4K Video Recording

The Sony Alpha 7R II is a powerhouse when it comes to video recording, offering 4K (3840 x 2160) video capture at up to 30 frames per second. The camera uses the full width of the sensor to record 4K video, resulting in detailed and high-quality footage. Additionally, the A7R II employs a process called pixel binning to reduce noise and enhance image quality in video recording.

S-Log2 and S-Log3 Profiles

For videographers seeking greater control over their footage, the A7R II includes S-Log2 and S-Log3 gamma profiles. These profiles provide a flat color profile with extended dynamic range, allowing for greater flexibility in post-production color grading. The S-Log profiles are particularly beneficial for professional videographers who require precise control over the final look of their videos.

Full HD and Slow Motion

In addition to 4K recording, the A7R II can capture Full HD (1920 x 1080) video at up to 60 frames per second, providing smooth and detailed footage. The camera also offers high-frame-rate recording at 120 frames per second in HD resolution, enabling the creation of stunning slow-motion videos. These capabilities make the A7R II a versatile tool for a wide range of video production needs.

Audio Capabilities

The A7R II includes a built-in stereo microphone and a 3.5mm microphone jack for external microphones, providing flexibility for capturing high-quality audio. The camera also features a headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring, ensuring that videographers can achieve the best possible sound quality in their recordings.

Connectivity and Battery Life

Wi-Fi and NFC

The Sony Alpha 7R II includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, allowing for seamless wireless transfer of images and videos to smartphones, tablets, and computers. The camera can be controlled remotely using the Sony PlayMemories Mobile app, enabling photographers to adjust settings, compose shots, and trigger the shutter from a distance. This wireless functionality enhances the camera’s versatility and ease of use.

USB and HDMI Ports

The A7R II is equipped with a USB port for charging and data transfer, as well as a micro HDMI port for connecting the camera to external monitors and recorders. These ports provide additional flexibility for photographers and videographers, allowing for easy integration with various accessories and devices.

Battery Life

The A7R II uses the NP-FW50 battery, which provides a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 290 shots per charge. While this battery life is relatively modest compared to some DSLRs, it is standard for mirrorless cameras. For extended shooting sessions, it is advisable to carry spare batteries or use an external battery grip to increase the camera’s battery life.

User Experience and Customization

Menu System and Interface

The A7R II features a comprehensive menu system that provides access to a wide range of settings and customization options. While the menu can be overwhelming for new users, it offers extensive control over the camera’s operation. The customizable My Menu function allows users to create a personalized menu with their most frequently used settings, enhancing the overall user experience.

Customizable Buttons and Functions

The camera includes several customizable buttons and functions, allowing users to tailor the camera’s operation to their specific needs. The A7R II offers a high degree of customization, enabling photographers to assign functions such as focus modes, exposure settings, and white balance adjustments to various buttons and dials. This level of customization enhances the camera’s usability and efficiency in different shooting scenarios.

PlayMemories Camera Apps

The Sony PlayMemories Camera Apps platform allows users to download and install additional apps that expand the functionality of the A7R II. These apps include features such as time-lapse photography, multiple exposure, and remote control, providing additional creative options for photographers and videographers.

Practical Use Cases

Landscape Photography

The high-resolution sensor and excellent dynamic range of the A7R II make it an ideal choice for landscape photography. The camera’s ability to capture intricate details and a wide tonal range ensures that landscapes are rendered with stunning clarity and depth. Additionally, the 5-axis image stabilization allows for sharp images even when shooting handheld in challenging conditions.

Portrait Photography

Portrait photographers will appreciate the A7R II’s accurate color reproduction and superb detail rendering. The Eye AF feature is particularly useful for ensuring that the subject’s eyes are in sharp focus, enhancing the overall quality of portrait shots. The customizable buttons and dials allow photographers to quickly adjust settings and capture the perfect moment.

Travel and Street Photography

The compact and lightweight design of the A7R II makes it a convenient choice for travel and street photography. The camera’s silent shooting mode is beneficial for capturing candid moments without drawing attention. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity enable easy sharing of images on the go, making it an excellent companion for photographers who want to document their journeys and share their experiences in real-time.

Videography

With its 4K video capabilities, advanced autofocus system, and 5-axis image stabilization, the A7R II is a powerful tool for videographers. The S-Log2 and S-Log3 profiles provide flexibility in post-production, allowing for professional-grade color grading. The camera’s ability to capture high-quality audio with external microphones and monitor sound in real-time further enhances its appeal for video production.

Event Photography

The fast hybrid AF system and reliable subject tracking make the A7R II well-suited for event photography, where capturing fleeting moments is crucial. The camera’s high ISO performance ensures that it can handle low-light environments, such as indoor events and concerts, with ease. The tilting LCD screen allows for creative compositions and shooting from various angles.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• High-Resolution Sensor: The 42.4-megapixel sensor delivers exceptional image quality with impressive detail and dynamic range.
• 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization: Effective stabilization for both stills and video, reducing the need for a tripod.
• Fast Hybrid Autofocus: Accurate and reliable AF performance, with Eye AF and excellent subject tracking.
• 4K Video Recording: High-quality 4K video capture with S-Log2 and S-Log3 profiles for professional-grade footage.
• Ergonomic Design: Comfortable grip and intuitive control layout, with customizable buttons and dials.
• Weather Sealing: Protection against dust and moisture, allowing for use in challenging conditions.
• Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing and remote control.

Cons

• Battery Life: Relatively short battery life compared to some DSLRs, requiring spare batteries for extended shooting sessions.
• Menu Complexity: The extensive menu system can be overwhelming for new users, requiring time to learn and customize.
• LCD Screen: The tilting screen is not fully articulating, limiting some shooting angles.
• Price: The A7R II is positioned in the higher price range, making it a significant investment for many photographers.

Conclusion

The Sony Alpha 7R II remains a formidable contender in the world of mirrorless cameras, offering a compelling combination of high-resolution imaging, advanced autofocus, and versatile video capabilities. Its robust design, excellent build quality, and weather sealing make it a reliable choice for various photographic genres, from landscapes and portraits to travel and event photography. The 5-axis in-body image stabilization and comprehensive feature set further enhance its appeal, providing photographers and videographers with the tools they need to capture stunning images and videos.

While the A7R II faces stiff competition from newer models and rival brands, its impressive sensor performance and extensive customization options ensure that it continues to be a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike. For those seeking a high-resolution, versatile, and feature-rich camera, the Sony Alpha 7R II is a worthy investment that delivers outstanding results in a wide range of shooting scenarios.