CineD, Philip Bloom and Gerald Undone express their frustration over the confusing Sony Firmware Updates strategy

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Yep, this ain’t’ a secret folks: Sony isn’t particularly diligent in adding features on our Sony cameras via firmware update. Features like Animal EYE AF, AF Assist, Focus Breathing Compensation and Focus Map are missing on some of Sony’s top end cameras. You find them only on newly released models. Philip Bloom complained about the situation in this video (watch from minute 24).

This “strategy” from Sony is going to backfire. Why the heck should I buy a Sony camera when I know I can buy into Nikon, Fuji and so forth with the confidence that my camera will get better in time? CineD correctly writes:

We need Sony firmware updates for flagship cameras

The price of a Sony a1, a7S III or FX3 is a major investment for a filmmaker or photographer, which simply has to last longer in order to create brand loyalty. Otherwise people will simply wait for the cheaper alternative being released, because they can be sure that there will be newer, better features available at a lower price.

What’s clear is all models moving forward will have these key features; focus breathing compensation, AF assist, multi subject AF, focus map and the new video display layout.

But I personally think there is even a bigger reason why Sony has to get bold and consistent on firmware updates:

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Sony A7rV Lab test by Lesnumeriques: A7rV has super start up time, IBIS is more effective than the α1 in live action

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Sony A7rV Preorders:
In US at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, FocusCamera, BeachCamera, Buydig.
In EU at Fotokoch, Amazon EU, FotoErhardt, Calumet DE, WexUK. ParkCameras UK.
In Australia at CameraPro, Camerahouse, Sony.

Lesnumeriques made a very accurate review of the new Sony A7rV and here are some key findings:

Build/Appearance :

  • It’s similar to its predecessor, but it’s clearly evolved.
  • Equipped with a function to protect the sensor by closing the shutter curtain when the power is turned off.
  • Previously, the startup speed was like a diesel car (over 1.5 seconds), but this camera averages 0.58 seconds, which is very fast. Faster start-up speeds are comparable to SLRs.

Portability :

  • It’s a compact camera, but you’ll be surprised by its weight.
  • It weighs 737g. Half the size of the Nikon Z 9, but slightly heavier than the Canon EOS R5.
  • The weight difference is noticeable from the days of the α7R II and α7R III.
  • It’s not as big as the LUMIX S1R, but it’s getting close in weight.

Grip :

  • The grip surface has a fine texture.

Usability :

  • Except for the monitor section, the control layout looks the same as the α7IV.
  • Movie mode has disappeared from the PASM mode dial, and a switch that can switch between still images and movies is installed at the bottom of the dial.
  • All controls are customizable with the exception of the PASM dial and MENU button.
  • Customization is expert-oriented and will take some getting used to, but you can expect satisfying results.

Image stabilization :

  • It has a correction effect of up to 8 stops.
  • It seemed to be more effective than the α1 in live action.

Monitor :

  • Sony explains that moving the monitor away from the back of the camera also improves heat dissipation at 8K.

Focus system :

  • I tested it with the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II.
  • In daylight there is a slight difference to the A7R IV, but in low light the A7R V is much better.
  • It supports object recognition of vehicles.
  • You need to get close enough to detect an insect.

High sensitivity ISO noise :

  • JPEG looks good up to ISO 12800.
  • Detail is very good up to ISO 1600.
  • Detail starts to fall off at ISO 3200, but is still useful at ISO 6400.
  • It is after ISO 12800 that I feel the problem of detail.

Dynamic range :

  • Since there is no way to edit RAW at present, it is not evaluated.

Video :

  • The 8K image quality is on par with the α1, but below the EOS R5 and Z9.
  • The rolling shutter is quite noticeable.

Overall review

It has the same very good sensor as the A7R IV, but with some upgrades. It’s an ambitious, high-performance camera with an improved body, improved ergonomics, and increasingly impressive AF tracking. The biggest drawback, whether still or video, is still the rolling shutter, which is too pronounced for an electronic shutter. Still, I think it’s a worthwhile camera that embodies camera-making know-how.

  • Pros :
    – Very good EVF – Good
    ISO performance
    – 240-megapixel high-resolution shooting
    – 8K 24p
    , 4:2:2 10bit
    – 4K UHD 30p without cropping
    – Subject detection AF
    – 8 stops Image stabilization
    , fast startup
    , 4-axis free-angle monitor
    , a wide range of interfaces
    , customizability
    , dust and splash proof
  • Cons :
    Continuous shooting speed up to 10fps
    Electronic shutter fastest 1/ 8000s
    Limited focus map assist
    Crop at 4K 60p and 8K
    No DCI format support
    Noticeable rolling shutter
    4K live streaming 15fps limit

Summary via Asobinet

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The new Tokina APS-C E-mount Reflex lenses will launch on Indiegogo on November 7

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You can join the mailing list on their Indiegogo page.

Tokina SZ 300mm PRO Reflex f/7.1 MF CF

Body size: maximum diameter Φ61mm x total length 74.5mm
Supported formats: APS-C
Lens construction: 8 elements in 8 groups
Filter size: Φ46mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.92m
Maximum magnification: 1/2.5
Focusing method: Manual focus (front lens extension method)
Weight: about 235g
Hood: MH-461

Tokina SZ 600mm PRO Reflex f/8 MF CF

Body size: maximum diameter Φ88.6mm x total length 125mm
Supported formats: APS-C
Lens construction: 8 elements in 8 groups
Filter size: Φ77mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 1.77m
Maximum magnification: 1/2.5
Focusing method: Manual focus (front lens extension method)
Weight: about 545g
Hood: MH-775

Tokina SZ 900mm PRO Reflex f/11 MF CF

Body size: maximum diameter Φ96.1mm x total length 168mm
Supported formats: APS-C
Lens construction: 7 elements in 7 groups
Filter size: Φ86mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 2.61m
Maximum magnification: 1/2.5
Focusing method: Manual focus (front lens extension method)
Weight: about 725g
Hood: MH-861

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Sony Tidbits…

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My Favourite Sony Full Frame Lenses For Filmmaking In 2022

Today deals at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon DE, Amazon UK, Amazon FR, Amazon IT, FotoErhardt DE, FotoKoch DE.
Sony FX30 VS Panasonic Lumix GH6 | NIGHT MODE | Camera Test
Brightin Star 16mm F2.8 Full Frame UWA Quick Review + IQ Breakdown by Dustin Abbott.
Lexar Professional 1800x Gold Series: The Gold Standard (Explora).
35mm vs 50mm Lens Choice: Which is Right for You? (42West).
The Best Mirrorless System –Definitive Guide (Almost) by Matti Sulanto.

Follow our new Youtube channel.
I kindly invite you all to follow our Discord channel, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to not miss news and rumors

We have our own Facebook camera groups you can join to discuss the upcoming new cameras in detail:
Sony Alpha group.
Sony A1 group.
Sony A9 series group.
Sony A7r series group.
Sony A7s series group.
Sony A7 series group.

 


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