THINGS HAVE BECOME COMPLICATED AND EXPENSIVE
In 2022 I had a bad fall while visiting Belfast and damaged my Sony A7RIV and as a result the camera was usable but unreliable but I decided not to invest in a new camera until the Sony A7RV became available but when it arrived on the market in December 2022 I decided to go a step higher and wait for the A1 update/upgrade to become available.
In December 2024 I pre-ordered and paid for the A1 II assuming that I would have it by March at the latest. It is now July 2025 and my Camera Dealer has advised me that I would not get my camera before August (best case) and that he was expecting to receive one per month going forward. My problem was that my city visits begin in March every year and this my Sony A7RIV had become unusable and I needed a replacement urgently. In April/May I got the opportunity to get both a Leica Q3 and a Fuji GFX100RF and a greatly reduced price so I decided that this might me the ideal solution. About three weeks ago I had a meeting with my dealer as I had more-or-less decided to forget about getting the A1 II and was offered a loan of a Sony A7RV until the A1 arrived and then things became complicated. I have an extensive collection of Sony glass and as soon as I began testing the A7RV I began to suspect that the Sony actually outperformed either the Leica Q3 or the Fuji GFX100RF and this was unexpected. The Sony combined with the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II, in my opinion, outperformed the Leica Q3 which certainly outperforms the Fuji GFX100RF in low light. Don’t get the wrong impression – I like both the Leica and Fuji and have every intention of keeping them for a variety of reasons.
As I now need decide if I should keep the A7RV and cancel my order for the A1 II I commissioned a report which is included below:
A Deep Dive into High-End Camera Systems for Stills, Macro, and General Use
This analysis explores high-end camera systems, comparing the Sony Alpha 7R V, Leica Q3, and Fujifilm GFX100RF, while also evaluating the potential of the pre-ordered Sony Alpha 1 II. The assessment focuses on photographic interests that primarily involve stills, macro, and general use, with minimal emphasis on video capabilities.
The recent damage to an Alpha 7R IV, the temporary use of a loaned Alpha 7R V, and the recent acquisitions of the Leica Q3 and Fujifilm GFX100RF provide a crucial backdrop for this analysis. The positive experience with the Alpha 7R V, particularly when paired with the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens, serves as a central reference point.
The Sony Alpha 7R V: A Deep Dive into its Capabilities
The Sony Alpha 7R V stands out with its 61-megapixel full-frame Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor, maintaining the high resolution of its predecessor, the Alpha 7R IV. A pivotal advancement in this model is the integration of a dedicated AI processing unit, operating independently from the BIONZ XR processor. This innovation significantly enhances autofocus accuracy and subject recognition, allowing for real-time tracking through a sophisticated 693-point hybrid autofocus system that covers a substantial portion of the image area.
Furthermore, the Alpha 7R V incorporates an improved 5-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) system. Thanks to new gyro sensors and enhanced processing, it is rated to provide up to 8 stops of correction. For still photography, the camera is capable of continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second with full autofocus and auto-exposure tracking when utilising the mechanical shutter.
The positive experience with the Alpha 7R V, particularly when combined with the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens, is noteworthy. The camera’s high-resolution sensor and advanced autofocus capabilities are optimally suited to capitalise on the optical excellence of a premium G Master lens. The enhanced IBIS further contributes to sharper handheld images, especially beneficial for wide-angle shots or in challenging low-light conditions.
Professional evaluations consistently commend the Alpha 7R V for its exceptional 60-megapixel BSI sensor, which delivers remarkable detail, expansive dynamic range, and accurate colour rendition, even at elevated ISO settings. Its AI-powered autofocus system is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage, demonstrating precise and consistent tracking of faces, eyes, and full bodies across various subjects, making it highly effective for wildlife, portraiture, and general photography. While the camera offers 8K video recording, it is primarily designed for still photographers, with its video performance generally described as competent rather than exceptional.
For macro photography, the Alpha 7R V’s superior acquisition speed for small subjects, such as insects, coupled with its AI-trained subject recognition, positions it as a formidable option. The inclusion of a pixel-shift shooting mode, although requiring post-processing, provides an avenue for achieving ultimate resolution in static scenes.
The observation that the Alpha 7R V “outperformed” the Leica Q3 and Fujifilm GFX100RF can be understood by examining the technical specifications and operational characteristics of each camera in relation to stated preferences. Both the Leica Q3 and the Alpha 7R V share a 60MP sensor, but the Alpha 7R V boasts superior IBIS, offering 8 stops of compensation compared to the Leica’s 5 stops. Critically, the Leica Q3 lacks automatic focus bracketing, a feature often desired for precise macro photography, which the Alpha 7R V offers through its pixel-shift mode. The Alpha 7R V’s advanced AI autofocus system would also likely provide a more versatile and responsive experience compared to the Q3’s phase detection, especially for general photography and potentially for macro work involving subjects that are not entirely static. Furthermore, the Q3’s fixed-lens design inherently limits the versatility that an interchangeable-lens system, like the Alpha 7R V with the 16-35mm GM II zoom, provides.
When comparing the Alpha 7R V to the Fujifilm GFX100RF, the latter features a larger 102MP medium format sensor, theoretically offering superior pure image quality at low ISOs. However, a significant practical difference is the GFX100RF’s lack of in-body image stabilisation. This absence can be a considerable disadvantage for handheld shooting, particularly in lower light, where the Alpha 7R V’s 8-stop IBIS allows for much slower shutter speeds without compromising sharpness. The GFX100RF’s fixed 35mm f/4 lens (equivalent to a 28mm f/2.8 on a full-frame sensor) also restricts optical flexibility compared to the Alpha 7R V’s ability to use a wide range of E-mount lenses, including the versatile 16-35mm GM II zoom. The Alpha 7R V’s AI autofocus is also generally considered more advanced for general use than the Fujifilm’s system, which some characterise as more suited to a deliberate, artistic approach. The perception of the Alpha 7R V’s superior performance likely stems from its comprehensive blend of high resolution, cutting-edge autofocus, robust image stabilisation, and lens system versatility, which collectively provide a more adaptable and satisfying shooting experience for diverse interests.
Leica Q3: The Art of Fixed-Lens Photography
The Leica Q3 is constructed around a variant of the excellent 60-megapixel full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor, which shares similarities with the sensors found in the Sony Alpha 7R IV and Alpha 7R V, but incorporates phase detection elements for its autofocus system. This camera delivers superb raw image quality, characterised by abundant detail and impressive dynamic range. The build quality of the Q3 consistently receives high praise, described as outstanding, robust, and featuring an all-metal body shell with IP52 weather resistance. From an ergonomic standpoint, it offers engaging dial-led controls and a classic design, encouraging a more deliberate and tactile shooting approach. However, some photographers note that the absence of a substantial handgrip can make one-handed operation less comfortable.
While the Q3 has incorporated phase detection for faster autofocus and includes subject recognition for people and animals, its autofocus system is generally regarded as less advanced than Sony’s AI-powered capabilities. The Q3’s in-body image stabilisation is rated at 5 stops, which is less effective than the Alpha 7R V’s 8 stops. A significant limitation for macro photography is the Q3’s inability to perform automatic focus bracketing.
The Leica Q3 is a premium compact camera featuring a fixed 28mm f/1.7 lens. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, its tactile shooting experience, and the exceptional image quality it produces from a compact form factor. While its digital zoom function allows for in-camera cropping to simulate 35mm, 50mm, 75mm, and 90mm focal lengths, this is a digital crop of the high-resolution sensor, not an optical zoom. For a photographer who values lens versatility, as evidenced by the use of the 16-35mm GM II, and specific macro capabilities, the fixed lens and absence of focus bracketing likely explain why the Alpha 7R V was perceived as offering superior performance for particular use cases.
The Q3’s high price point, approximately $6,995 compared to the Alpha 7R V’s $3,898, also positions it as a luxury item designed for a specific, often less versatile, photographic purpose.
Fujifilm GFX100RF: Medium Format in a Compact Package
The Fujifilm GFX100RF is distinguished by its 102-megapixel medium format GFX CMOS II sensor, which is substantially larger than typical full-frame sensors. This larger sensor translates to approximately 70% more resolution than an average full-frame camera, providing immense detail and remarkable flexibility for cropping. For controlled environments such as studio fashion shoots, the GFX system is often considered objectively superior for achieving pristine image quality at low ISOs, complemented by the exceptional optical performance of Fuji G lenses.
A striking aspect of the GFX100RF is its relatively compact size for a medium format camera, contributing to its surprising portability. It features engaging analogue controls and offers a tactile shooting experience, appealing to photographers who prefer a more deliberate approach to image capture. However, a notable drawback is the absence of in-body image stabilisation (IBIS). This omission means that handheld video footage will likely exhibit shakiness, and still photography in low light without a tripod becomes more challenging, often necessitating higher ISO settings or faster shutter speeds. The fixed 35mm f/4 lens, which provides a 28mm f/2.8 full-frame equivalent field of view, also limits optical flexibility.
While the GFX100RF excels in controlled studio settings where its high resolution and lens quality can be fully leveraged, its lack of IBIS and fixed lens make it less adaptable for dynamic, handheld shooting or varied scenarios compared to a full-frame camera like the Alpha 7R V. The Alpha 7R V’s advanced AI autofocus and superior IBIS offer a more versatile and responsive experience, particularly for “run and gun” situations. The GFX100RF’s leaf shutter, while allowing for flash sync up to 1/125s, can be a limiting factor for managing ambient light in studio environments compared to other systems. The subjective finding that the Alpha 7R V “outperformed” the GFX100RF likely reflects these practical limitations for general and macro photography, where the Alpha 7R V’s comprehensive capabilities, including its robust autofocus and IBIS, provided a more satisfying outcome.
The Sony Alpha 1 II: Launched and in High Demand
The Sony Alpha 1 II was launched in late 2024, with many reviewers obtaining copies shortly after its release. This camera builds upon the foundation of the original Alpha 1’s 50.1-megapixel stacked CMOS sensor, now incorporating the advanced AI processing unit first introduced in the Alpha 7R V. This integration significantly enhances autofocus accuracy, with projected improvements of approximately 30% for human and animal eye recognition and 50% for bird eye recognition compared to the original Alpha 1. The in-body image stabilisation has also seen substantial improvement, with a rating of up to 8.5 stops of compensation. The stacked sensor technology facilitates blackout-free continuous shooting at an impressive 30 frames per second with full autofocus and auto-exposure tracking, and it also features pre-release capture capabilities. Ergonomically, the Alpha 1 II adopts the fully-articulated rear screen design seen in the Alpha 7R V, offering enhanced flexibility.
Despite its launch, Sony has reportedly underestimated the demand for the Alpha 1 II, leading to manufacturing constraints and significant delivery delays for many who pre-ordered the camera. The experience of waiting since before Christmas 2024, with dealers expecting only one unit per month, highlights these ongoing supply issues.
The implications for performance relative to the Alpha 7R V and specific requirements are significant. The Alpha 1 II merges the high resolution and advanced AI autofocus of the Alpha 7R V with the speed and stacked sensor advantages of the original Alpha 1. For photography interests:
For macro photography, the Alpha 1 II’s even more refined AI autofocus and subject recognition, particularly for small, potentially moving subjects like insects, are likely to surpass the Alpha 7R V’s already excellent performance. The enhanced IBIS would also prove highly beneficial for handheld macro work, allowing for greater flexibility in challenging conditions.
For general photography, the combination of 50-megapixel resolution, 30 frames per second shooting capability, and advanced autofocus positions it as an incredibly versatile camera for nearly any scenario, including fast-moving subjects where the original Alpha 1 is considered “unbeatable”. The 1/400th of a second mechanical flash sync speed also represents a professional advantage, offering greater control over ambient light in flash photography.
From an ergonomic perspective, the adoption of the Alpha 7R V’s fully-articulated screen addresses a common preference, providing more compositional flexibility compared to the original Alpha 1’s tilting screen.
The Alpha 1 II retails for approximately $6,498, making it considerably more expensive than the Alpha 7R V, which is priced around $3,898. Furthermore, the reported limited availability, with camera dealers expecting to receive only one unit per month, presents a significant practical constraint.
The question of whether the Alpha 1 II is “better again” than the Alpha 7R V, given positive experiences with the latter, can be addressed by considering the synergistic combination of features in the new model. The Alpha 1 II is designed to consolidate the strengths of both its predecessors. It integrates the Alpha 7R V’s cutting-edge AI autofocus and significantly improved IBIS (8.5 stops compared to the Alpha 7R V’s 8 stops) with the original Alpha 1’s high-speed stacked sensor, enabling 30 frames per second continuous shooting, and its superior mechanical flash sync speed of 1/400th of a second. This directly addresses the Alpha 7R V’s limitations in continuous shooting speed and buffer performance for capturing fast action, while also upgrading the original Alpha 1’s less advanced autofocus and image stabilisation. For macro interests, the Alpha 1 II’s even more refined AI subject recognition, particularly for small, moving subjects like insects, would present a distinct advantage over the Alpha 7R V. For general photography, the sheer speed and versatility of the Alpha 1 II would establish it as an unparalleled tool. Owners of both the original Alpha 1 and Alpha 7R V often suggest that if they were limited to a single camera, the Alpha 1 would be their choice due to its comprehensive capability, especially for dynamic subjects. The Alpha 1 II aims to eliminate the need for such a choice by incorporating the Alpha 7R V’s advancements into the Alpha 1 platform. Therefore, from an objective standpoint, the Alpha 1 II is indeed a further advancement in overall technical capability and versatility, representing the pinnacle of Sony’s mirrorless technology. The primary considerations remain its significantly higher price and the current constraints on its availability.
Synthesising Subjectivity and Objective Data: Making a Camera Choice
The subjective experience of the Alpha 7R V outperforming the Leica Q3 and Fujifilm GFX100RF aligns with professional assessments that highlight the Alpha 7R V’s robust all-around performance. Its advanced autofocus and excellent image stabilisation are particularly crucial for versatile shooting, including macro photography. While the Leica Q3 offers a unique, tactile experience and commendable image quality within its fixed-lens niche, and the Fujifilm GFX100RF excels in pure resolution for static, controlled environments, neither provides the same blend of high resolution, advanced autofocus, and robust in-body image stabilisation for general and dynamic photography as the Alpha 7R V. The preference likely stems from the Alpha 7R V’s superior practical utility for specific workflow and diverse photographic interests.
Recommendations tailored to photographic interests can be made based on this analysis. Given satisfaction with the Alpha 7R V and its strong performance when paired with the 16-35mm GM II lens, it continues to serve as an excellent current photographic solution. The Leica Q3 and Fujifilm GFX100RF, while capable in their own right, appear to be less aligned with broad photographic needs and dynamic shooting style compared to the Alpha 7R V. The Q3’s fixed lens and lack of focus bracketing are notable limitations for stated interests in macro and general versatility. Deciding to forgo the Alpha 1 II in favour of the Q3 may not be the most logical choice if versatility and advanced autofocus are primary considerations. Similarly, while the GFX100RF offers unparalleled resolution for still subjects, its absence of in-body image stabilisation and fixed lens, combined with its larger physical presence (albeit compact for a medium format camera), render it less suitable for the dynamic, handheld shooting scenarios where the Alpha 7R V demonstrated superior performance. For studio work, the GFX100RF remains a powerful tool, but for broader requirements, the Alpha 7R V’s performance advantage is understandable. Cancelling the Alpha 1 II for the GFX100RF would represent a trade-off of versatility and advanced autofocus for sheer resolution, which may not be optimal given current satisfaction with the Alpha 7R V.
The Sony Alpha 1 II, despite its higher cost and current delivery delays, is objectively the most capable camera among those under consideration. It offers a significant upgrade in speed, autofocus intelligence, and stabilisation over the Alpha 7R V. If ultimate performance and versatility across all photographic genres are prioritised, including highly demanding macro and fast-action scenarios, and the higher price and extended wait time are acceptable, then retaining the Alpha 1 II pre-order would be justified. It effectively combines the best features of the Alpha 7R V with the speed and professional capabilities of the Alpha 1. Considering current satisfaction with the Alpha 7R V, the Alpha 1 II would offer an even more refined and capable experience. The Alpha 7R V serves as an excellent camera for the interim period.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Summary of Key Findings
The camera analysis indicates that the Sony Alpha 7R V offers a compelling balance of high resolution, advanced AI autofocus, and excellent in-body image stabilisation. These attributes likely contributed to its perceived superior performance for general and macro photography needs. The Leica Q3, while a premium and aesthetically appealing camera, is a niche fixed-lens system with inherent limitations in versatility and specific macro features. The Fujifilm GFX100RF, despite its impressive medium format resolution, is hindered by the absence of in-body image stabilisation and a fixed lens for dynamic, handheld use. The Sony Alpha 1 II, now launched, is poised to be a superior choice, combining the Alpha 7R V’s cutting-edge AI autofocus and enhanced in-body image stabilisation with the Alpha 1’s speed and stacked sensor technology, positioning it as a truly professional-grade, all-around camera. However, its availability is currently limited due to high demand.
Personalised Camera Recommendations
Given the expressed satisfaction with the Alpha 7R V and its strong performance when paired with the 16-35mm GM II lens, it continues to serve as an excellent current photographic solution. The Leica Q3 and Fujifilm GFX100RF, while capable in their own right, appear to be less aligned with broad photographic needs and dynamic shooting style compared to the Alpha 7R V.
The Q3’s fixed lens and lack of focus bracketing are significant limitations for stated interests in macro and general versatility. Opting for the Q3 instead of the Alpha 1 II may not be the most logical choice if versatility and advanced autofocus are primary considerations. Similarly, while the GFX100RF offers unparalleled resolution for still subjects, its absence of in-body image stabilisation and fixed lens, combined with its larger physical presence (albeit compact for a medium format camera), render it less suitable for the dynamic, handheld shooting scenarios where the Alpha 7R V demonstrated superior performance. For studio work, the GFX100RF remains a powerful tool, but for broader requirements, the Alpha 7R V’s performance advantage is understandable. Cancelling the Alpha 1 II for the GFX100RF would represent a trade-off of versatility and advanced autofocus for sheer resolution, which may not be optimal given current satisfaction with the Alpha 7R V.
The Sony Alpha 1 II, despite its higher cost and current delivery delays, is objectively the most capable camera among those under consideration. It offers a significant upgrade in speed, autofocus intelligence, and stabilisation over the Alpha 7R V. If ultimate performance and versatility across all photographic genres are prioritised, including highly demanding macro and fast-action scenarios, and the higher price and extended wait time are acceptable, then retaining the Alpha 1 II pre-order would be justified. It effectively combines the best features of the Alpha 7R V with the speed and professional capabilities of the Alpha 1. Considering current satisfaction with the Alpha 7R V, the Alpha 1 II would offer an even more refined and capable experience. The Alpha 7R V serves as an excellent camera for the interim period.
Considering the detailed analysis, which camera system do readers find most appealing for their own photographic pursuits?