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Sony Introduces Alpha 7 IV, Two Strobes
21 October 2021
Sony has announced its Alpha 7 IV camera with a newly-developed 33-megapixel full-frame image sensor, as well as two new flashes: the HVL-F60RM2 and HVL-F46RM.
"Since its introduction over three years ago, the Alpha 7 III has made tremendous impact in our industry, completely redefining the expectations for what can be accomplished with a 'basic' or entry-level full-frame camera," said Yang Cheng, vice president, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc.
"Now, it's time to break through all existing boundaries again. The Alpha 7 IV brings together the best of Sony imaging technologies in both photo and video to deliver a high-end experience to a wider range of customers. This gives today's creators a new level of freedom to capture, create and share in ways that they've never been able to before, no matter the situation in which they find themselves."
ALPHA 7 IV
The new Alpha 7 IV features the latest BIONZ XR processing engine and advanced autofocus capabilities from the flagship Alpha 1 combined with streamlined operability and enhanced reliability for both stills and movies. Sony added that it "also boasts a 33-Mp image resolution, rich movie expression and various features to support the growing demand for remote communication, bringing new meaning to what a 'basic' camera can accomplish."
Movie enhancements include the S-Cinetone picture profile from Sony's Cinema Line cameras, as well as 4K 60p recording in Super 35mm mode and up to 4K 30p recording with 7K oversampling is available in full-frame mode. The camera also supports 10-bit depth 4:2:2 color sampling, XAVC S-I intra-frame encoding and XAVC HS H.265 long-GOP.
The Alpha 7 IV's connectivity features on-the-spot streaming and sharing of high-quality content with a connection between the camera and the Imaging EdgeMobile application via Bluetooth plus fast data transfer via 5GHz/2.4.GHz WiFi.
Its Shot Mark feature enables easy access to the marked scenes in a video clip, within camera and on Sony's Catalyst Browse/Prepare applications.
A range of new features support live streaming and remote communication without needing dedicated software as well. USB Video Class and USB Audio Class allow the Alpha 7 IV to live stream when connected to a computer or smartphone. Image quality at 4K 15p and 1080 FHD 60p delivers realistic video for remote sharing and the Alpha 7 IV's digital audio interface can be paired with a range of mics and accessories to deliver high quality sound.
Sony also announced plans to offer a new cloud service next year called AI Video Editing Studio to automatically permit initial editing in the cloud using AI technology.
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights of the new Alpha 7 include:
- 33-megapixel full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor
- Up to 10 fps
- ISO 100 to 51,200
- 4K 60p video in 10-Bit, S-Cinetone
- 3.68m-dot EVF with 120 fps refresh rate
- 3.0-inch 1.03m-dot articulated touchscreen LCD
- 759-Pt. fast hybrid AF, real-time eye AF
- Focus breathing compensation
- 5-axis SteadyShot image stabilization
- Creative looks and soft skin effect
- 4K 15p UVC/UAC sStreaming via USB Type-C
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications for the camera include:
SONY ALPHA 7 IV SPECIFICATIONS Sensor 35.9mm x 23.9mm full-frame CMOS
Aspect Ratio: 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 16:9Bit Depth 14-bit Lens Mount Sony E File Formats Raw, JPEG, HEIF Storage Slot 1: CFexpress Type A or SD (UHS-II) Slot 2: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II) Viewfinder 3,680,000-dot 0.5-inch OLED
100 percent coverage
0.78x magnification
-4 to +3 diopter adjustmentMonitor 3.0-inch 1,036,800-dot articulated touchscreen LCD Shutter 1/8000 to 30 Second, Bulb mode Frame Rate Up to 10 fps at 33-Mp for up to 828 Raws or unlimited JPEGs ISO Auto, 100 to 512,000
Extended: 50 to 204,800Autofocus Yes Live View Yes Image Stabilization Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis Flash TTL, Hot shoe, No built-in flash
Maximum Sync Speed: 1/250 secondMovie UHD 4K (at 23.976p/50p/59.94p
UHD 4K at 23.976p/50p/59.94p
UHD 4K at 23.976p/25p/29.97p/50p/59.94p
Full HD at 23.976p/25p/29.97p/50p/59.94p
Unlimited clip length
Built-in stereo mic, external stereo mic input
Live streaming, Webcam functionConnectivity WiFi, Bluetooth
HDMI A, USB Type-C (USB 3.2 Gen 2), USB Micro-B (USB 2.0), 3.5mm microphone, 3.5mm headphonePower NP-FZ100 rechargeable lithium-ion battery, 7.2 VDC, 2280 mAh
520 shotsDimensions 5.2 x 3.8 x 3.1 inches Weight 1.4 lb. HVL-F60RM2, HVL-F46RM
Sony also introduced two new strobes that feature upgraded continuous shooting flash performance. The HVL-F60RM2 can handle up to 200 consecutive flashes at 10 frames per second and the HVL-F46RM up to 60 times.
An optimized flash algorithm protects both flashes from overheating while four NiMH batteries can power up to 240 flashes with a 1.7 second recycle time for the HVL-F60RM2 and up to 320 flashes with a 2.0 second recycle time for the HVL-F46RM.
Both flashes also feature improved robustness and operability. The Multi Interface shoe with a metal shoe foot with rugged side frame increases strength and reliability. Shoe sealing helps the flashes to be more dust and moisture resistant. The HVL-F60RM2's original rotating head mechanism has also been improved to prevent an unintended change in the bounce angle.
They support wireless radio communication and can control up to 15 flashes and/or receiver units in 5 groups via wireless radio communication for enhanced lighting control versatility.
PRICES, AVAILABILITY
Sony said the new Alpha 7 IV will be available in December for $2,500 body only. The PCK-LG2 Screen Protect Glass Sheet accessory for the Alpha 7 IV will be available at the same time.
A kit version with Sony's FE 28-70mm f3.5-5.6 OSS zoom lens will also be available for $2,700.
Adorama and B&H are now accepting pre-orders.
Strobes
Sony said the new HVL-F46RM will be available in November for $400 and the new HVL-F60RM2 will be also be available in November for $550a.
Sony Electronics' Alpha 7 IV Goes Beyond 'Basic' with 33-Megapixel Full-frame Image Sensor and Outstanding Photo and Video Operability
Sony Also Announces Two New Flashes to Evolve the Powerful Alpha Lighting System
SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- Sony Electronics Inc. has announced three new additions to its imaging line-up: the Alpha 7 IV interchangeable-lens camera (model ILCE-7M4) with a newly developed 33-megapixel (approx.,effective) full-frame image sensor, as well as two new flashes -- the HVL-F60RM2 and HVL-F46RM.
The Alpha 7 IV takes "basic" to the next level for full-frame cameras with excellent image quality and performance, redefining the lofty standards set by the acclaimed Alpha 7 III. The new model features many of Sony's most advanced imaging technologies, including the latest BIONZ XR processing engine and advanced AF (autofocus) capabilities from the flagship Alpha 1 combined with streamlined operability and enhanced reliability for photos and movies, making it the perfect all-around camera for today's imaging enthusiasts and professionals. The Alpha 7 IV also boasts a 33-Mp (approx., effective) image resolution, rich movie expression and various features to support the growing demand for remote communication, bringing new meaning to what a "basic" camera can accomplish.
"Since its introduction over three years ago, the Alpha 7 III has made tremendous impact in our industry, completely redefining the expectations for what can be accomplished with a 'basic' or entry-level full-frame camera," said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. "Now, it's time to break through all existing boundaries again. The Alpha 7 IV brings together the best of Sony imaging technologies in both photo and video to deliver a high-end experience to a wider range of customers. This gives today's creators a new level of freedom to capture, create and share in ways that they've never been able to before, no matter the situation in which they find themselves."
Alpha 7 IV: Innovation Never Ends
The new Alpha 7 IV is an exceptional hybrid camera packed with outstanding still image quality and evolved video technology with advanced autofocus, enhanced operability and improved workflow capability. The model was developed with the environment in mind by using Sony's original recycled plastic SORPLAS for the camera body and packaging with recyclable materials and less plastic.
Outstanding Image Quality
Thanks to a newly developed 33-Mp (approx., effective) full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor, superior image quality and Wide ISO sensitivity range expandable to ISO 50 to 204,800 is achieved. The high resolution enables the Alpha 7 IV to express smooth gradation, fine details and textures of the subject while reducing noise and its 15-stop dynamic range allows a wide expressive range while Creative Look settings can help create original looks effortlessly for both stills and video.
Next-Level AF performance
The latest BIONZ XR processing engine is the same that is used in Sony's flagship Alpha 1, delivering high-speed AF, uninterrupted continuous shooting up to 10fps with AF/AE tracking and a large buffer for a prolonged shooting experience. The Alpha 7 IV tracks subjects with tenacious Real-time Tracking and 759 phase-detection AF points in a high-density focal plane phase-detection AF system that covers approximately 94 percent of the image area. Additionally, for the first time, Real-time Eye AF can now track birds' and animals' eye for both still images and movies, in addition to humans. The Alpha 7 IV also has face and eye detection accuracy for humans that is improved by approximately 30 percent compared to the Alpha 7 III.
Evolved Movie Technology
The Alpha 7 IV inherits technology taken from real-world movie production, including the S-Cinetone picture profile adopted from Sony's highly regarded Cinema Line cameras. This delivers a rich, cinematic look that has become popularized by a broad range of cinematographers and filmmakers who are shooting on Sony. High quality movie is achieved with 4K 60p recording in Super 35mm mode and up to 4K 30p recording with 7K oversampling is available in full-frame mode. The new camera also features 10-bit depth 4:2:2 color sampling to enable natural gradation, XAVC S-I intra-frame encoding for more efficient editing workflows and XAVC HS H.265 long-GOP for doubled compression efficiency.
To meet the growing need for precise autofocus performance when shooting videos, unique AF features are achieved when using the Alpha 7 IV with a Sony E-mount lens, including AF Assist that supports focus transitions when using AF and Focus Map that visualizes depth of field. For the first time in the Alpha series, the new camera features Breathing Compensation to combat focus breathing and maintain a consistent angle of view throughout focus changes and can be switched on or off.
Advanced Operability as a Genuine Hybrid Model
The Alpha 7 IV is a hybrid still and video camera with outstanding operability and reliability that easily allows the user to switch from photo to video and back at their convenience. New to Sony's lineup of Alpha cameras is a dual-layer mode dial, with a lower layer for selecting Still/Movie/S&Q and a top layer for Auto/P/A/S/M and MR (Memory Recall), enabling users to quickly select and switch between the dedicated settings. It also has 5-axis optical in-body image stabilization for a 5.5-step shutter speed advantage, an improved grip for greater comfort and a CFexpress Type A compatible media slot to support media with faster writing and clearance. Additionally, the 3.68 million-dot (approx.) OLED Quad-VGA viewfinder is 1.6 times the resolution of the Alpha 7 III viewfinder, benefiting users with an upgraded live-view image quality that minimizes false color and increases resolution.
Videographers can record 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2 video continuously for more than an hour thanks to the camera's heat-dissipating structure. Optical 'Active Mode' image stabilization further stabilizes movie shooting. They can also benefit from the 3.0-inch (3.0-type) 1.03 million-dot (approx.) side-opening vari-angle touch-panel rear LCD monitor, top-panel REC button and high-capacity Z-series battery.
The Alpha 7 IV body is built with magnesium alloy to achieve a robustness while minimizing its weight. In addition, the redesigned structure and lens lock button contribute to enhanced dust and moisture resistance.
Enhanced Workflow Capabilities
By offering a variety of connectivity options, the Alpha 7 IV enables on-the-spot streaming and sharing of high-quality content to meet the growing need for remote communication in real-time without sacrificing excellent image and sound quality. The connection between the camera and Imaging EdgeMobile application is simplified via Bluetooth and fast data transfer is possible by 5GHz/2.4.GHz WiFi.
The camera also has a new feature called "Shot Mark" to enable easy access to the marked scenes in a video clip, within camera and on Sony's Catalyst Browse/Prepare applications.
Moreover, the camera has a range of new features to support live streaming and remote communication without needing dedicated software. UVC (USB Video Class) and UAC (USB Audio Class) turn the Alpha 7 IV into a high-performance live streaming camera when connected to a computer or smartphone. High image quality such as 4K 15p and 1080 FHD 60p deliver realistic video for remote sharing and the Alpha 7 IV's digital audio interface can be paired with a range of mics and accessories to deliver high quality sound.
Finally, Sony plans to offer a new cloud service next year, "AI Video Editing Studio," for automated editing with AI technology. To allow creators to focus on more creative tasks, "AI Video Editing Studio" automatically performs initial editing in the cloud, using AI technology. Sony will continue to strive to offer a wide variety of imaging experiences and services through the active integration and advancement of cameras, cloud and AI.
Designed with the Environment in Mind
In line with Sony's environmental efforts based on the "Road to Zero" initiative, environment was an important factor in the development of the Alpha 7 IV's design, production and packaging. The camera uses recycled plastic, SORPLAS, which does not depend on non-renewable resources and is produced at the sites by using renewable energy such as solar power generation. The product packaging also adopts recyclable plastic-reduced materials.
HVL-F60RM2 and HVL-F46RM: Powerful Flashes to Evolve Alpha Lighting System
The HVL-F60RM2 with GN 60 and 20-200mm coverage and HVL-F46RM with GN 46 and 24-105mmxi are powerful wireless flashes to offer precise control, enhanced high-speed and intuitive operability. They are designed to meet the needs of both professional and advanced content creators when shooting with a Sony Alpha camera, including the Alpha 7 IV, to offer the ultimate Alpha Lighting System by the detailed communication between cameras and external flash.
Both flashes have upgraded continuous shooting flash performance, up to 200 consecutive flashes at 10 frames per second for the HVL-F60RM2 and 60 times for the HVL-F46RM. The optimized flash algorithm ensures both flashes are overheat-resistant and a set of four NiMH (Nickel-metal hydride) batteries can power up to 240 flashes with a 1.7 second recycle time for the HVL-F60RM2 and up to 320 flashes with a 2.0 second recycle time for the HVL-F46RM.
When used in combination with an Alpha camera, they allow users to experience the unique communication and system benefits of the Alpha Lighting System that sets a new standard for mirrorless camera lighting systems. For example, with the Alpha 7 IV, P-TTL flash control metering for every frame in Mid and Hi continuous mode has become possible in addition to Lo continuous mode. The flash release time lag is also shortened to capture momentary facial expressions and movements of the subject.
With the Alpha 1, the HVL-F60RM2 achieves a phenomenal up to 20fps of continuous shooting and approximately 20 flashes per second can be produced for more than 10 seconds with the external flash battery adapter FA-EBA1 (sold separately). When the Alpha 1 is used with Sony's flashes, including HVL-F60RM2 and HVL-F46RM, users can sync up to 1/400 second shutter speed to expand expressive capabilities when shooting in full-frame mode. In addition, with the silent electronic shutter of the camera, silent flash shooting is possible when absolute silence is required.
Other system benefits of HVL-F60RM2 and HVL-F46RM with an Alpha camera include:
- Flash parameters controlled directly from the menu of a compatible camera
- Flash control linked to camera face detectionxv
- Automatic correction of white balance based on the color temperature information from the flash
Both flashes also feature improved robustness and operability. The Multi Interface shoe with Sony's unique metal shoe foot with rugged side frame significantly increases strength and reliability. Shoe sealing helps the flashes to be more dust and moisture resistant. The HVL-F60RM2's original rotating head mechanism, "Quick Shift Bounce," that enables flexible positioning and optimum lighting control has also been improved to prevent unintended change in the bounce angle.
They support wireless radio communication and can control up to 15 flashes and/or receiver units in 5 groups via wireless radio communication for enhanced lighting control versatility.
Visual Story is now Supported on Android
"Visual Story" is a mobile application for professional event photographers and video creators to enable immediate and automatic delivery of photos and movies to their clients after an event through gallery creation, utilize AI (artificial intelligence) assistance for easy image selection, upload assets online and more. While the Visual Story app is already available to iOS users, Android user can now also take advantage of the benefits Visual Story provides to professional photographers and videographers.
When using the Alpha 7 IV, "Shot Mark" is also supported by Visual Story on iOS Version 2.1.
- Visual Story on iOS is available to download for free HERE
- Visual Story on Android is available to download for free HERE
Pricing and Availability
The new Alpha 7 IV will be available in December for approximately $2,500 and $3,200 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America. The PCK-LG2 Screen Protect Glass Sheet accessory for the Alpha 7 IV will be available at the same time.
A kit version with Sony's FE 28-70mm f3.5-5.6 OSS zoom lens will also be available for approximately $2,700 and $3,400 CAD.
The new HVL-F46RM will be available in November for approximately $400 and $550 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.
The new HVL-F60RM2 will be available in November for approximately $550 and $750 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.