A7RV

Sony’s New Alpha 7RV Camera Offers Next-Generation Autofocus Technologies Using an Advanced AI

October 31, 2022 by infomatique

I have the Sony A7RIV as well as the A7RIII and the A7RII but instead of upgrading the the A7RV I decided to purchase the new Sony FX30

New Artificial Intelligence (AI) Processing Unit Combined with 61 MP High Resolution Image Sensor and BIONZ XR™ Processing Engine Combine to Deliver Best-Ever Image Quality for an Alpha Body.

Sony announced the Alpha 7R V (model ILCE-7RM5) as the newest R series camera in its acclaimed line of Alpha mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. The Alpha 7R V combines Sony’s highest resolution image sensor with a new AI (artificial intelligence) processing unit dedicated to AI-based image recognition – a first in any Alpha camera – as well as the powerful BIONZ XR™ image processing engine – a first in the “R” full-frame lineup. The combination of the high-resolution sensor and these processors enables new breakthroughs in subject recognition and capture for both still photography and video.

“The newest addition to our Alpha 7R lineup is the perfect example of our relentless drive to develop industry-leading imaging technology,” said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Director of Product Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe. “We are thrilled to introduce the all-new ALPHA 7RV with extremely advanced AI integrations that enables next-generation autofocus capabilities. We are excited to see what our community creates with the new ALPHA 7RV.”

Improved AF Based on Newly Developed AI Processing Unit

The ALPHA 7RV features next-generation AF with advanced subject recognition thanks to a new AI (artificial intelligence) processing unit, which includes deep learning. State-of-the-art AI processing uses detailed information about human pose estimation to dramatically improve the camera’s subject recognition accuracy and make full use of its potential resolution[iii]. AI subject recognition has also been expanded to include several new subject types, including vehicles and insects[iv].

In addition to the advanced AI technology, the ALPHA 7RV includes improvement to many beloved features from other cameras in Sony’s Alpha series that are now included for the first time in Sony’s 7R series:

Tenacious Real-time Tracking[v]
Faster and more precise wide-area, high-density AF system
Continuous shooting at up to 10 fps[vi] with AF/AE tracking
Silent, vibration-free shooting[vii] at up to 7 fps[viii]
Continuously shoot up to 583 compressed RAW images at high speed[ix]

The ALPHA 7RV also includes focus features that support high resolution including full-time DMF[x] (direct manual focus), and focus bracketing[xi], a highly requested capability that allows for focus stacked images.

Extraordinary Resolution Known to Sony’s Alpha 7R Series

The ALPHA 7RV was designed to deliver overwhelming detail thanks to the latest BIONZ XR™ image processing engine and a 35mm full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor with approximately 61.0 million effective megapixels. The latest BIONZ XR image processing engine ensures that the resolution potential of the camera’s sensor is fully utilised to deliver the highest resolution at low sensitivity in the Alpha series thus far. This enables sensitivity settings from ISO 100 to ISO 32000[xii] for both stills and movies and wide dynamic range with 15 stops[xiii] for stills.

The ALPHA 7RV’s entire image stabilisation system has been updated with a high-precision image stabilisation unit, advanced gyro sensors, and optimised image stabilisation algorithms for stills and video. In addition to the 8-step compensationii effect for stills, the new stabilisation algorithm provides precise detection and control right down to the single-pixel level, taking full advantage of the sensor’s 61.0-megapixel resolution potential to bring out the finest subject details. Sony’s newest camera also offers upgraded Pixel Shift Multi Shooting, which takes advantage of the precision in-body image stabilisation system control, capturing multiple pixel-shifted images that are later composited using a computer to achieve overwhelming resolution in a single image. Using the latest version of Imaging Edge Desktop™ Ver.3.5 computer application, small pixel-level movements, such as a shift in the subject’s position or leaves on a tree, are automatically detected and corrected so that perfect compositing can be achieved[xiv]. 16-image composites with approximately 240.8 million pixels (19,008 x 12,672 pixels)[xv] can be produced from data that is equivalent to approximately 963.2 million pixels. The ALPHA 7RV also supports precise and versatile external flash control for additional creative flexibility. Additionally, when in challenging lighting conditions the ALPHA 7RV effectively suppresses flickering from artificial lights[xvi] for stills and video.

Additional features that offer flexibility for still photography includes:

Addition of Lossless RAW image compression and selectable RAW image sizes and quality
Greatly expanded focus and exposure bracketing
Creative Look settings for stills and videos in camera
High-quality HEIF images with high compression efficiency
Wide brightness range for large screen viewing.
Cinematic Video Capabilities

In addition to incredible still photography capabilities, the ALPHA 7RV offers advanced video capabilities. Sony’s newest camera delivers 8Ki 24/25p video, 4K video oversampled from 6.2K without binning , a high-efficiency MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec, intra recording, 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, and more for high image quality and flexible editing. It also includes evolved subject recognition for unprecedented real-time tracking reliability, breathing compensation and the ability to use camera metadata for post-processing and advanced in-body image stabilisation. In addition to in-body Active mode image stabilisation for smoother on-the-go recording, the ALPHA 7RV is compatible with select lenses that include built-in image stabilisation for even more stable framing and smooth footage.

Operability and Reliability

The ALPHA 7RV pairs outstanding reliability for professional needs in both stills and videos with a compact, lightweight form factor. The ALPHA 7RV includes a new 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor[xx] that combines the utility of a conventional tilting monitor with side-opening vari-angle flexibility, and an electronic viewfinder with 9.44 million dots. The ALPHA 7RV also includes two CFexpress Type A/SDXC compatible media slots and a brand-new menu system with touch control and a wide range of customisable functions.

The ALPHA 7RV also allows professionals to optimise their workflow with updated connectivity for improved support. Data can be transferred at high speed over Wi-Fi (802.11ac) 2×2 MIMO[xxi] or a wired SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps connection via a USB-C® port. In addition to allowing efficient remote shooting as well as still and movie file transfers, new USB streaming features support UVC/UAC, allowing direct streaming from the camera even in 4K (QFHD) resolution with audio as well.

Based on feedback from professionals, the ALPHA 7RV includes improved heat dissipation for extended recording times[xxii], an upgraded dust and moisture resistant design[xxiii], a durable magnesium alloy chassis, and other refinements for maximum reliability in challenging working environments.

The ALPHA 7RV is also compatible with the new PCK-LG3 Screen Protect Glass Sheet, which maintains touch sensitivity while protecting the LCD monitor against stains and fingerprints.

Designed for Professionals with Sustainability in Mind

Measures have been taken to reduce the environmental footprint of this product at every stage of its life cycle: from product development through supply chain, production, and packaging. Sony aims to inspire through the most efficient use of energy and resources. Recyclable plastic including SORPLAS™[xxiv] were used for this camera body partially. In addition, manufacturing takes place at a facility using renewable energy.

Sony is working towards the use of plastic free[xxv] packaging materials that provide ample protection against shock and impact. Plant-based non-woven fabrics are used for product bags[xxvi]. All of this helps to minimise environmental impact.

Pricing and Availability

The new ALPHA 7RV will be available in mid- November at a variety of Sony’s authorised dealers, for an estimated retail price of €4,500 EUROS.

Notes:

[i] Slow & Quick Motion is not available when recording XAVC HS 8K movies. [APS-C/S35 Shooting] is fixed at [Off]. Angle of view is approx. 1.2x.

[ii] CIPA standards. Pitch/yaw shake only. FE 50mm F1.2 GM. Long exposure NR off.

[iii] Camera may not accurately recognize all specified subjects in all conditions. Subject types other than the type specified may be erroneously recognized in some cases.

[iv] Camera may not accurately recognize all specified subjects in all conditions. Available subject settings are: Human, Animal/Bird, Animal, Bird, Insect, Car/Train, and Airplane. Subject types other than the type specified may be erroneously recognized in some cases.

[v] [Tracking] in the menu. Based on advanced artificial intelligence, including machine learning.

[vi] Up to 8 fps with AF/AE tracking when shooting with live view. Maximum continuous shooting speed will depend on camera settings.

[vii] Some image distortion may occur when shooting fast-moving subjects or when panning or otherwise moving the camera rapidly.

[viii] Up to 7 fps in continuous “Hi+” mode. Maximum continuous shooting speed will depend on camera settings.

[ix] Sony CEA-G160T CFexpress Type A memory card used. Continuous Hi+ mode. Actual number of images may vary according to shooting conditions.

[x] Not applicable to the E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS and E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS LE lenses or any A-mount lens. Full-time DMF is not available when shooting continuously in AF-C or AF-A mode (not including Lo), or when using the SEL70200GM lens in AF-C mode.

[xi] A-mount lenses not supported.

[xii] Expandable to ISO 50-80 and 40000-102400 for stills.

[xiii] Sony test conditions. Still images

[xiv] As of the October 2022 product announcement. Applicable models: Alpha 1 and Alpha 7R V

[xv] Image size after compositing is approx. 60.2 million (9 504×6 336) pixels for 4-image shots, and approx. 240.8 million pixels (19 008 x 12 672) for 16-image shots.

[xvi] Only 100 Hz and 120 Hz flicker is detected. Continuous shooting speed may decrease. Phase-detection AF coverage is reduced. Flicker-free shooting is not available during silent shooting, BULB exposure, or movie recording.

[xvii] When shooting Super 35mm at 30p or 24/25p.

[xviii] Slight image crop in Active Mode. Active mode not available when recording XAVC HS 8K or using a frame rate of at 120 (100) fps.

[xix] See Sony’s support web page for information on compatible lenses: https://www.sony.net/dics/7rm5-s/ A software update may be required for some lenses. Compensation effectiveness may vary according to the lens used.

[xx] Monitor movement may be limited when cables are connected to the camera’s connectors.

[xxi] Wi-Fi® communication is enabled on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. 5 GHz communication may be restricted in some countries and regions.

[xxii] Sony internal tests with [Auto Power OFF Temp.] set to [High].

[xxiii] Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof.

[xxiv] Depending on the time of production, SORPLAS™ may not be used for some parts

[xxv] Not including materials used in coatings and adhesives.

[xxvi] Not including materials used in coatings and adhesives. Natural non-woven fabric may not be available during some production periods.

THE NEW SONY A7RV WAS LAUNCHED TODAY

October 26, 2022 by infomatique

BUT I WENT WITH THE FX-30 INSTEAD AND IT ARRIVED TODAY

Location: Henrietta Street – Bolton Street area of Dublin

Today the new Sony A7RV was launched (Euro 4500) but I had already decided to go down a different path and purchase the Sony FX-30 which is a video-centric camera but unlike the A7RV it is not a full-frame camera and it does not have an Electronic View Finder. I must admit that I am a bit disappointed by the price of the A7RV.

The FX-30 arrived today but I discovered a problem in that Lightroom or Capture One could not process the RAW files, I have yet to use it as a video camera so cannot pass any comments.

It should be mentioned that ON1 and Luminar Neo both import the RAW files.

One thing that I needed to confirm that I could use my iPhone to Geo-Tag the images and I was pleased to discover that were no issues.

The GP-VPT2BT wireless camera grip also works.

Below are some photographs produced by the Sony FX-30

BELOW IS THE RELEVANT SONY PRESS RELEASE

Sony Electronics Expands Cinema Line with New 4K Super 35 Camera for Future Filmmakers
Sony Electronics – 09/28/2022

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Sony Electronics Inc. is pleased to announce the newest addition to the brand’s prestigious Cinema Line – the FX30 (model ILME-FX30). The new FX30 is a 4K Super 35 compact cinema camera that offers many professional features of the Cinema Line, such as Dual Base ISO, Log shooting modes, and user-imported LUTs (Look Up Tables) at a price point that appeals to many aspiring filmmakers.

In addition to introducing the new FX30, Sony announced two new CFexpress Type A Memory Cards – CEA-G320T and CEA-G640T. Both are large capacity cards that support high-speed performance with a maximum writing speed.

“The new FX30 is a great fit for a wide range of filmmakers,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “As part of our Cinema Line, it is an attractive addition for seamless integration into large productions. Additionally, by incorporating many professional features found in our flagship cinema cameras, it is a perfect camera for up-and-coming filmmakers that are working with tight budgets.”

Creating a Cinematic Look
The FX30 offers next-generation filmmakers cinematic expression with the latest imaging systems. It features a new back-illuminated 20.1 megapixels APS-C Exmor R™ CMOS sensor (Super 35 format) with a dual base ISO (800/2500) to deliver high sensitivity, low noise, and 14+ stopsi of latitude.

The FX30 supports a variety of video recording codecs. It can shoot in high frame rates, including 4K at 120fps and full HD at 240fpsii. The FX30 also features the ability to shoot 4K Super 35 (16:9) by oversampling from 6K at up to 60fps. Both 16:9 recording modes can shoot at 10-bit 4:2:2 while the HDMI Type-A port outputs 4K, 16-bit RAWiii for an external recorderiv.

Like the rest of the Cinema Line, the FX30 features Log shooting modes by enabling Cine El, Cine El Quick, and Flexible ISO modes for recording with the S-Log3 gamma curve, which allows more flexibility when color grading. All three modes allow video shooting while monitoring with an appropriate LUT to preview the final image. In addition, the FX30 includes a selection of built-in cinematic looks, such as Sony’s S-Cinetone™, and can shoot single stills. The camera offers advanced image processing capabilities with the BIONZ XR processing engine for natural gradations and realistic color reproduction.

Designed to Support Creators’ Needs
The FX30 features Sony’s fast and reliable still and video autofocus, with settings including:

Real-time Eye AF (human, animal or birdv)
Real-time Tracking
Detailed AF settings
AF Assistvi
Creatives also have more control when using the Focus Map[vii], which makes it easy to visualize depth of field, and Breathing Compensationviii to offer a stable angle of view when focusing. The camera includes effective stabilization for run and gun shoots using Active Modeix thanks to the optical in-body 5-axis image stabilization. The FX30 also includes time code syncx.

The FX30 incorporates other features that retain the spirit of the Cinema Line, including:

New customizable list-style main menu screen for quick access to frequently used items
New standby movie screen that provides an unobstructed view of the subject
Buttons and dials dedicated to movie shooting
The FX30 also includes added functionality to assist with the creative workflow, such as post-production editing using embedded LUT, and EI metadata.xi This metadata is available using the latest version of Sony’s Catalyst Preparexii or Catalyst Browse applications. A new “Catalyst Prepare Plugin” for Adobe Premiere Pro was released in August.

Easy Operation and a Compact Form Factor
Compact and lightweight, the FX30 has a flat-top design with threaded accessory attachment points, making it easy to use for shooting handheld, capturing low-angle shots, mounting on a gimbal, or adding accessories. The FX30 also features an XLR handle unitxiii, which can be used to capture low-angle shots and also allows filmmakers to capture crystal clear audio through various audio inputs, including two XLR audio inputs and a 3.5 mm stereo mini jack for 4-channel recording. External microphones can be connected directly to the camera via the Multi Interface Shoe or microphone jack. The FX30 also features an internal stereo microphone for audio recording.

The FX30 are equipped with two memory card slots that are compatible with both CFexpress Type A cards and SDXC/SDHC cards, bringing wide range of shooting experiences to filmmakers. The FX30 is also compatible with the newly announced large capacity CFexpress Type A memory cards.xiv

The FX30 pairs advanced performance with outstanding reliability. It features an innovative heat dissipation structure for uninterrupted 4K/60p recording, reliable power for extended recording, and a durable magnesium alloy chassis. A comprehensive selection of E-mount lenses, high-performance microphones, and other essential components offers extraordinarily flexible systems for a broad range of creative needs.

Sony Future Filmmaker Awards
The new FX30 is an ideal choice for filmmakers actively working on or considering entering the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards, a major new annual awards program for short films. Sponsored by Sony and free to enter, the Awards set out to elevate original voices from around the globe with a fresh perspective on storytelling. For more information, please visit: www.sonyfuturefilmmakerawards.com

Pricing and Availability
The FX30 enables ultimate creative freedom and comes with an option to purchase with or without the XLR handle.xv

The new FX30 (supplied with the XLR handle) will be available in late October for approximately $2,200 USD and $2,900 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

The new FX30B, (supplied without the XLR handle) will also be available in late October for approximately $1,800 USD and $ 2,400 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

For detailed product information, please visit:

(US) – FX30
(CA) – FX30

The FX30 will also be compatible with the new version of Camera Remote SDK (Version 1.06), a development kit for software that enables remote operation and configuration changes.

CFexpress Type A Memory Cards: CEA-G320T and CEA-G640T
The compact and high-performance CFexpress Type A memory card CEA-G320T will be available in October for approximately $650 USD and $850 CAD (CEA-G320T), while the CFexpress Type A memory card CEA-G640Txvi will be available in December for approximately $1,250 USD and $1,630 CAD. In addition to the existing 80GB and 160GB cards, large capacity 320GB and 640GB cards will be added to the seriesxvii.

These large capacity cards support high-speed performance with a maximum writing speed of up to 700MB/s and Video Performance Guarantee “VPG400”, which offers sustained writing speeds of up to 400MB/s, and enables 4K 120p high bit rate video shooting.

The new large capacity cards have achieved TOUGH specification, which means they have been certified to be waterproof, dustproof, and robust enough to support stable long-term shooting in various environmentsxviii.

For detailed product information, please visit:

(US) – CEA-G320T
(CA) – CEA-G320T
(US) – CEA-G640T
(CA) – CEA-G640T
Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new FX30 and FX30B and Sony’s other imaging products can be found at www.sonycine.com and www.alphauniverse.com, two sites created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony Cinema Line.

About Cinema Line
Cinema Line is a series of cameras that have a cinematic look – cultivated from Sony’s long experience in digital cinema production – plus enhanced operability and reliability that respond to the wide variety of creators’ high demands. Cinema Line includes the flagship digital cinema cameras VENICE and VENICE 2, highly acclaimed in the feature and episodic production industry, the professional camera FX9, which is popular for documentary and drama production and the FX6, for run-and-gun action and content creation. With the addition of the FX30, Sony offers a true line up of versatile creative tools for all types of visual storytellers.

About Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news. for more information.

Notes:
i S-Log3 movies, Sony tests.
ii With approx. 38 % image crop. Post-production editing or S&Q mode recording required. In case of S&Q mode, data must be recorded to a CFexpress Type A memory card when the frame rate is 120 (100 in PAL) fps or higher.
iii With a choice of 59.94p / 50p / 29.97p / 25p / 23.98p frame rates and color spaces
iv Supported devices are as follows: as of September 2022, ATOMOS NINJA V and NINJA V+ HDR monitor-recorder support planned. For further details, please contact ATOMOS.
v Accurate focus may not be achieved with certain subjects in certain situations.
vi Not available when using the SELP1650, SEL18200LE or A-mount lenses.
vii The Focus Map function cannot be used in the following conditions: When shooting stills, when the Focus Magnifier function is in use, when using digital zoom, during USB streaming, when no lens is mounted, when an A-mount lens is mounted, or when using the SEL16F28. For other lenses, please use the latest lens software.
viii Angle of view and image quality may change slightly when this feature is turned on. Breathing Compensation is not available for unsupported lenses, 120p (100p) movie recording, S&Q recording at 120p (100p), or stills. The compatibility of lenses is limited. Please see Sony support page for lens compatibility. https://www.sony.net/dics/breathing/
ix Slight image crop in Active Mode. “Standard” setting is recommended for focal lengths of 200 mm or longer. Active Mode is not available when recording at frame rates of 120 (100) fps or higher, including S&Q.
x VMC-BNCM1 is required for time code synchronization. VMC-BNCM1 requires the following annotations. The availability of the VMC-BNCM1 (product number: A-5051-506-A) may vary depending on the country or region. Refer to the following support site for inventory confirmation and purchase. https://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/Support/
xi This metadata includes Embedded LUT, Image stabilization, Breathing Compensation, Camera rotation and Movie mark
xii Software download page URL: https://www.sony.net/disoft/
xiii FX30B does not include the XLR-H1 handle unit. The XLR-H1 handle unit will also be available as a stand-alone item, which will be available in early 2023.
xiv The newly announced CEA-G320T and CEA-G640 CFexpress Type A memory cards.
xv FX30B comes without the XLR handle while the FX30 model which comes with the XLR handle
xvi To use CEA-G640T memory card with the following cameras, the camera software version must be as listed below. Alpha 1 (Ver.1.31 or later), Alpha 7S III (Ver.2.11 or later), and FX3
(Ver.2.00 or later).
xvii 1 GB = one billion bytes. A portion of this card capacity is used for system files and may vary.
xviii Actual performance may vary. Based on environmental conditions and usage. Sony does not guarantee damage to recorded data or card based on every situation or condition.