Sony’s E-mount lineup is one of the most comprehensive and versatile camera ecosystems available, catering to both enthusiasts and professionals. However, there are still some gaps and areas for potential innovation that could strengthen the lineup even further. Here’s an analysis of what’s missing:
Cameras
- High-Resolution APS-C Camera (A6900r)
While Sony’s full-frame line includes high-resolution options like the A7R series, APS-C users lack a comparable high-resolution model. A 32-36MP APS-C camera could appeal to wildlife and sports photographers who value reach and detail.
- Affordable Entry-Level Full-Frame Camera (A5)
The A7C is compact, but its price and features are still a hurdle for some beginners. A truly affordable, stripped-down full-frame camera might attract newcomers to the system.
- Pro APS-C Camera with Stacked Sensor (A7000)
An APS-C body with a stacked sensor, offering ultra-fast readout and higher burst rates, could cater to sports and wildlife photographers who prefer lighter gear but need professional performance.
- Dedicated Monochrome Sensor Camera (Sony A7 Bw)
A monochrome-only sensor camera, akin to Leica’s offerings, could attract niche photographers seeking higher detail and tonal range in black-and-white imagery.
Lenses
- Ultra-Wide Tilt-Shift Lenses
Sony lacks native tilt-shift lenses for architecture and landscape photographers. Options such as a 17mm or 24mm tilt-shift lens would be well-received.
- Affordable Telephoto Zooms
While premium telephoto lenses like the 100-400mm and 200-600mm are available, more budget-friendly telephoto zooms (e.g., 70-300mm or 100-500mm at f/5.6-6.3) could appeal to hobbyists.
- Fast Telephoto Primes
Sony has fast primes in the standard and portrait ranges, but an ultra-fast telephoto (e.g., 200mm f/2) is missing. This would be a valuable tool for sports and wildlife professionals.
- Compact Pancake Lenses
The E-mount lacks truly compact pancake lenses. A 24mm f/2.8 or 35mm f/2.8 in a pancake design would be ideal for travelers and street photographers.
- Macro Lenses with Higher Magnification
While Sony offers excellent macro lenses like the 90mm f/2.8 G, a native lens with higher magnification (e.g., 2x or 3x macro) could fill a niche for extreme macro enthusiasts.
- Prime Lenses for APS-C
APS-C users have a limited selection of high-quality native primes. Adding fast and compact primes (e.g., 18mm f/1.8, 23mm f/1.4, 50mm f/1.8) could enhance the APS-C lineup.
- Super Telephoto Primes
Sony offers super-telephoto zooms, but the addition of primes (e.g., 600mm f/4 or 800mm f/5.6) could strengthen the system for professional wildlife and sports photographers.
Other Accessories
- Improved Compact Flash Memory Options: The introduction of higher-capacity, more affordable CFexpress cards could enhance usability for professionals.
- Lens Adapters for Unique Mounts: While Sony already supports a wide range of lens adapters, official adapters for niche vintage or proprietary lenses could broaden the system’s appeal.
What do you think of that list…is there something missing or something you think is really cool?