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Ships from: Amazon Sold by: TONY'S Camera Shop
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Sony ILCE7S/B Alpha a7S Mirrorless Digital Camera
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Purchase options and add-ons
Compatible Mountings | Sony FE |
Aspect Ratio | 3:2, 4:3 |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Supported File Format | JPEG (DCF 2.0, EXIF 2.3), RAW (ARW 2.3) |
Image Stabilization | No |
Maximum Focal Length | 70 Millimeters |
Optical Zoom | 1 |
Maximum Aperture | 3.5 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Minimum | 50 |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
About this item
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished, shows limited or no wear, and includes all original accessories plus a 90-day limited hardware warranty.
- Screen Features: Tiltable TFT-LCD with 921K dots
- Megapixels: 12.2MP
- Image Resolution: 4240 x 2832
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Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sold By | HOTOTRONICS RENEWED | Amazon.com | Global Camera USA | Fast Ship Direct | AVC Photo Store & Studio | Amazon.com |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD |
display size | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches |
lens type | 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) XGA OLED color electronic viewfinder (2,359,296 dots) | Prime | Sony E-mount | interchangeable | Fisheye | Zoom |
zoom type | — | Optical Zoom | — | Digital Zoom | optical | optical |
shooting modes | Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority | AUTO, Programmed AE, Aperture priorty, Shutter-speed priority, Manual, Movie, Slow and Quick Motion | Movie | AUTO, programmed AE, aperture priority, shutter-speed priority, manual, movie, sweep panorama, scene selection | Portrait, sports action, macro, landscape and more | AUTO (iAuto), Programmed AE (P), Aperture priority (A), Shutter-speed priority (S), Manual (M), Movie modes |
connectivity tech | NTSC | HDMI, Micro USB, NFC, Bluetooth | HDMI | NFC, HDMI, USB | NFC, HDMI, USB | USB |
video resolution | FHD 1080p | 4320p | 1080p | FHD 1080p | FHD 1080p | 4K UHD 2160p |
optical zoom | — | — | — | 3 multiplier x | 1 multiplier x | 1 multiplier x |
magnification | 0.71x | 0.9x | — | 0.71x | 0.78x | 0.78x |
wireless tech | ✓ | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | BuiltIn, NFC | nfcWi-Fi | Bluetooth |
model name | Sony Alpha a7S | Alpha 1 | Alpha a7 II | Sony Alpha a7II | Sony a7S II | Sony a7 III |
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Product information
Brand | Sony |
---|---|
Model Name | Sony Alpha a7S |
Age Range Description | Adult |
Built-In Media | Micro Usb Cable, Ac Adapter, Shoulder Strap, Sony Alpha A7S Mirrorless Digital Camera, Body Cap, Cable Protector |
Are Batteries Included | No |
Model Number | ILCE7S/B |
Remote Included | No |
UPC | 027242881730 |
Customer Reviews |
3.9 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #486,439 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #1,334 in Mirrorless Cameras |
ASIN | B00JIWXTXG |
Metering Methods | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
---|---|
Exposure Control | Program, Shutter priority, Aperture priority, Automatic |
White Balance Settings | Auto, Daylight |
Self Timer | 10 seconds |
Screen Size | 3 Inches |
---|---|
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Tilting |
Display Resolution Maximum | 921000 |
Has Color Screen | Yes |
Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo |
---|---|
Memory Slots Available | 1 |
Flash Memory Bus Interface Type | SD |
Compatible Mountings | Sony FE |
---|---|
Sensor Type | CMOS |
Image stabilization | No |
Maximum Aperture | 3.5 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Minimum | 50 |
Photo Sensor Resolution | 12.4 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | APS-C |
Maximum Shutter Speed | 1/8000 seconds |
Minimum Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Form Factor | SLR-style mirrorless |
Special Feature | Travel |
Color | Black |
Item Weight | 1.08 Pounds |
Video Resolution | FHD 1080p |
Viewfinder | Electronic |
Flash Modes | Auto, Fill Flash, Hi-Speed Sync, Off, Rear Sync, Red-Eye Reduction, Slow Sync, Wireless |
Camera Flash | Built-In |
Skill Level | Professional |
Specific Uses For Product | Photography, Videography |
Continuous Shooting | 5 |
Viewfinder Magnification | 0.71x |
Audio Input | Microphone |
Flash Sync Speed | 1/250 sec |
Video Capture Format | h.264;mpeg-4 |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 409600 |
Battery Weight | 2 Grams |
Battery Cell Type | Lithium Ion |
Battery Average Life | 380 Photos |
Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
Processor Description | Bionz X |
Aspect Ratio | 3:2, 4:3 |
---|---|
File Format | JPEG (DCF 2.0, EXIF 2.3), RAW (ARW 2.3) |
Effective Still Resolution | 12.2 MP |
JPEG Quality Level | Basic, Fine, Normal |
Supported Image Format | AVCHD, JPEG, MPEG-4, RAW |
Bit Depth | 14 Bit |
Total Still Resolution | 12.2 MP |
Maximum Focal Length | 70 Millimeters |
---|---|
Optical Zoom | 1 |
Lens Type | 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) XGA OLED color electronic viewfinder (2,359,296 dots) |
Camera Lens | 35 Mm |
Digital Zoom | 2 |
Connectivity Technology | NTSC |
---|---|
Wireless Technology | Yes |
Video Output | HDMI |
Total USB 2.0 Ports | 1 |
Total USB Ports | 1 |
Shooting Modes | Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority |
---|---|
Digital-Still | Yes |
Movie Mode | No |
Image Capture Type | Stills |
Night vision | Yes |
Auto Focus Technology | Center, Selective single-point, Face Detection, Multi-area, Single, Continuous, Live View, Contrast Detection |
---|---|
Focus Features | Contrast detect |
Autofocus Points | 25 |
Focus Type | Manual Focus |
Focus Mode | Direct Manual Focus (DMF), Manual Focus (MF), Continuous-Servo AF (AF-C), Single-Servo AF (AF-S) |
Autofocus | Yes |
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Sony ILCE7S/B Alpha a7S Mirrorless Digital Camera
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Product Description
From the Manufacturer
Presenting the world’s smallest and lightest1 full frame interchangeable lens camera. With a groundbreaking 35mm large pixel image sensor rated at 15.3-stops of dynamic range and an ISO 409,600 sensitivity2, the α7S reveals astonishing detail and color even in the dead of night. Video excels with Full Pixel Readout, a 4K-optimized sensor and uncompressed 4K output. Fast, intelligent autofocus completes the picture.
Technology
35mm large pixel image sensor with 15.3-stops of dynamic range
The groundbreaking α7S features a 12.2 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor CMOS sensor paired with a powerful BIONZ X image processor. The α7S can shoot at a sensitivity range of ISO 100 – 4096004 with low noise and unprecedented 15.3 stops of dynamic range. The extra-large pixels on the α7S collect dramatically more light than traditional cameras to produce beautifully detailed, low-noise images in even the most challenging lighting environments.
12.2MP sensor optimized for 4k and low light video
The α7S is the world’s first 35mm camera to incorporate ‘direct pixel readout’ utilizing the entire width of the full-frame image sensor without line skipping or pixel binning. Therefore in both HD and 4K video acquisition it can read and process data from every one of the sensor’s pixels. This allows video shooters to utilize all of the artistic and creative benefits provided by the unique sensor.
High ISO up to 409,600 w/ fast AF in light as low as EV -4
Equipped with the same high-precision Fast Intelligent AF system as the award-winning α7R camera, the α7S drastically improves AF sensitivity in low-light that can go as low as EV -4.
New-generation RGB filter with gapless on-chip lens design
The larger than normal pixel size on the 35mm full-frame image sensor with effective 12.2MP, employs Sony’s latest image sensor technologies on the α7S. To boost the image sensor’s light collection efficiency, a new-generation RGB color filter has been adopted, in addition to the gapless on-chip lens design, light concentration technology and photodiode expansion technology delivers unprecedented high sensitivity and low-noise levels with high dynamic range in every light condition from severe low light to bright sunlight. By applying an AR coating on the surface of the seal glass over the image sensor, ghosting and flare have been minimized, further contributing to the α7S’s high image quality.
Uncompressed 4:2:2 Full HD and 4K QFHD output via HDMI1
In video mode, the α7S can output 4K video at QFHD (3840x2160) in 4:2:2 to an optional external 3rd party 4K recorder via the HDMI1.
50Mbps XAVC S 1920x1080 at 60P, 1280x720 at 120P
For the first time ever in a Sony α camera, the α7S adopts the workflow-friendly XAVC S recording format in addition to AVCHD and MP4 codecs. XAVC S format allows for full HD recording at a data rate of 50 mbps with lower compression for improved video quality. The α7S can record full HD (1920x1080) at frame rates of 60p, 60i, 30p and 24p directly to a compatible memory card. Video modes can be changed from full-frame to APS-C (super 35mm equivalent) if desired, and in this crop mode, the camera can support high frame rate 120fps shooting at standard HD resolution (1280 x 720p), creating a 5x slow-motion effect.
Additional Features
Silent shutter mode for discreet shooting
Silent shutter mode is ideal when discretionary shooting is required; like capturing a recital or wildlife. Activating the silent shutter eliminates the use of the mechanical shutter and therefore shutter noise by utilizing an electronic shutter in its place.
3.0" 1.23M dot LCD tilts for high and low angle framing
The tiltable 3.0” (1,229k dots) Xtra Fine LCD Display makes it easy to photograph over crowds or low to capture pets eye to eye by swinging up approximately 84 degrees and down approximately 45 . Easily scroll through menus and preview life thanks to WhiteMagic technology that dramatically increases visibility in bright daylight. The large display delivers brilliant-quality still images and movies while enabling easy focusing operation.
Simple connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi or NFC
Connectivity with smartphones for One-touch sharing/One-touch remote has been simplified with Wi-Fi/NFC control. In addition to Wi-Fi support for connecting to smartphones, α7S also supports NFC (near field communication) providing “one touch connection” convenience when transferring images to Android smartphones and tablets. Users need only touch devices to connect; no complex set-up is required. Moreover, when using Smart Remote Control — a feature that allows shutter release to be controlled by a smartphone — connection to the smartphone can be established by simply touching compatible devices.
Pro-workflow w/ Picture Profile, S-Log2 and time code
The α7S is equipped with S-Log2 gamma. Common to Sony’s range of professional video cameras, S-Log2 expands the dynamic range by up to 1300% to minimize clipped highlights and loss of detail in shadows. The α7S includes a picture profile that can adjust settings like gamma, black, level and color adjustment, and can be saved for use in a multi-camera shoot. It also has Full HD and 4K base band HDMI output, time code/user bit for easier editing, synchronous recording feature with compatible devices, various marker and zebra displays on both the LCD screen and viewfinder.
Audio level controls, AAC/Linear PCM2, optional XLR kit
The α7S has a Multi-terminal interface shoe that is compatible with Sony’s XLR Adaptor Microphone Kits (XLR-K1M plus a new model under development), allowing the use of professional microphone systems.
PlayMemories Camera Apps allows feature upgrades
Personalize your camera by adding new features of your choice with PlayMemories Camera Apps. Find apps to fit your shooting style from portraits, detailed close-ups, sports, time lapse, motion shot and much more. Use apps that shoot, share and save photos using Wi-Fi that make it easy to control and view your camera from smartphone, and post photos directly to Facebook or backup images to the cloud without connecting to a computer.11
High contrast 2.4-million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder EVF
View every scene in rich detail with the XGA OLED Tru-Finsder, which features OLED improvements and the same 3-lens optical system used in the flagship Sony α99 Full Frame DSLR. The viewfinder faithfully displays what will appear in your recording, including the effects of your camera settings, so you can accurately monitor the results. You’ll enjoy rich tonal gradations and 3 times the contrast of the α99. High-end features like 100% frame coverage and a wide viewing angle are also provided.
Compatible w/ Sony E-mount lenses and many others3
Directly compatible with the growing family of E-mount Full Frame lenses, the α7S camera can also be used with A-mount and others lens systems with optional adapters. Sony’s complete α lens system includes several premium offerings from Carl Zeiss and G Series Lenses. Sony’s E-mount lens system is particularly well-suited for video shooting, with a variety of models containing “movie-friendly” features like smooth focusing, powered zoom control, and silent iris/aperture control.
1. Requires compatible recorder. 4K movie recording requires a 4K-compatible recorder.
2. Linear PCM in XAVC S
3. Compatibility with lenses other than Sony E-mount requires optional adaptors. Function is not guaranteed and may vary by adaptor.
4. Standard ISO range: Still 100 – 102400, Movie 100-102400; Expandable ISO range: Still 100-409600, Movie 100-409600
11. Requires an active 802.11 Wi-Fi network (802.11n recommended) or PlayMemories Mobile app installed on compatible Android or iOS device. PlayMemories camera app requires download with existing Sony Entertainment Network account. Download available in all countries/areas where Sony Entertainment Network is available. Content is subject to change and may require fees.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers appreciate the camera's quality, video, and low light capabilities. They find it a great choice for a backup or main camera. The video quality is good for 1080P, with 120fps 720p, and 15 steps of dynamic range. Many customers are satisfied with the image quality, functionality, and noise level. However, opinions differ on picture quality and autofocus quality.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the video quality of the camera. They mention it has a usable ISO past 10,000, 120fps 720p video, and 15 steps of dynamic range. The video is clean, sharper than the Canon 50 1.2 lens, and the image quality of photographs in low light at high ISO is very good.
"...image quality but it allows for far longer hand held stills and smoother video so that it essentially boosts the low light image quality by..." Read more
"...look like day, but the high-ISO performance allows me to use faster shutter speeds and greater depth of field so my subjects are neither blurry nor..." Read more
"...In term of usage, the A7S is a mixed bag. The photo quality is excellent, but it strains to compete with a pro 20 megapixel plus full frame DSLR...." Read more
"...If you value a camera that provides excellent quality available light image capture without the intrusion of flash, then this is the camera worth..." Read more
Customers like the camera quality. They say it's an excellent camera with high-quality lenses. It's purpose-built and worth it as a backup or main camera.
"...However around $1500 it's definitely worth it as a backup camera or a main camera for an aspiring photographer or videographer...." Read more
"...thousand dollars more than the A7 body, and the A7 is already a very good camera that has double the pixel count. So, should you buy it?..." Read more
"...This is an incredible camera which makes Sony at the most interesting equipment maker out there, but depending on your expectations this may be a..." Read more
"...Although it appeared to be a very capable camera from the reviews I read about it beforehand, the one I received had the firmware update that..." Read more
Customers appreciate the camera's low-light capabilities. They mention it's great for shooting in rooms without lighting, taking very usable photos in low light, even near total darkness. The camera lives up to its low light high ISO sensitivity reputation and practically sees in the dark.
"...you likely already know enough about what this camera's amazing low light performance and want to know if this camera is still relevant in 2019...." Read more
"The sony A7S camera is absolutely amazing. It shoots wonderfully in low light...." Read more
"...The cam is really the "king" of low light, for both stills and video, which is quite commendable and in a small package to boot." Read more
"...otherwise was excellent for general purposes, particularly for low light videography...." Read more
Customers appreciate the camera's image quality. They say it has 12 megapixels, good ISO performance, and accurate OLED EVF and LCD screens. The shots look clean and crisp, with a finish that is almost museum-quality. However, some find the camera's use experience mixed.
"...12 megapixels. Even though it's 12 beautiful megapixels, it is unfortunately not enough. 12MP is the size iphone cameras shoot these days...." Read more
"...The finish is almost museum quality. In term of usage, the A7S is a mixed bag...." Read more
"...Okay, they can't be printed poster size, but they look good reduced to 5 megapixels, with good color, skin tone, everything you would never expect..." Read more
"...Clean, usable ISO past 10,000, 120fps 720p video, 15 steps of dynamic range, all in a body half the size of my d800...." Read more
Customers appreciate the camera's functionality. They find it works well as a backup or secondary camera for low-light situations, and is excellent for general purposes. The results are acceptable, quite good, and well received by their subjects. The camera can be used for event photography, clean video, and is an incredible high ISO performer.
"...photo stills (12MP is too low to deliver to a client) but works well as a secondary or backup camera for low light situations...." Read more
"...get shots mashing on the shutter in all situations, but workable for event photography...." Read more
"...However, I think the camera otherwise was excellent for general purposes, particularly for low light videography...." Read more
"...on 8x10 and the results were more than acceptable, quite good in fact, and well received by my subject...." Read more
Customers appreciate the low noise level of the camera. They say the silent shutter is completely silent, which is great for candid shots. The camera sounds like a DSLR, which is not an issue for them.
"...even attempt with any other camera/video camera and the result is little noise (when there is practically no light to work with) and no noise with a..." Read more
"...without a second thought as for using flash because the ISO and low noise were that good." Read more
"...First, these images cleaned up very nicely with some noise reduction and other adjustments in Lightroom...." Read more
"...Great dynamic range -- great color accuracy -- no noise. I guess I forgot what 12 megapixels looks like...." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the camera's picture quality. Some find it takes amazing pictures in any light, with great color rendition and contrast detection. Others say the photos are marginal at best, with shots looking pretty bad in jpeg but the raw files made them appreciate the contrast detection. The lower megapixel count leaves the image quality in average light about halfway between a great APS-C camera and a great DSLR camera.
"...Simply put this camera is superb in producing "natural light" photos in low light without the distracting flash or harsh flash lighting...." Read more
"...The lower megapixel count leaves the image quality in average light about half way between a great aps-c camera and a full frame...." Read more
"yes, this is a very specialized camera. it will take pictures in places where you cannot see. Really...." Read more
"...This camera has changed the landscape of available light photography, and I have to agree with other commentators that this camera brings a new era..." Read more
Customers have different views on the autofocus performance of the camera. Some find it good in good light, while others mention it hunts a bit in low light. The autofocus is comparable to or better than that of their A7, especially in low light. However, some say it's slow and not comparable to semi-pro DSLRs. It takes time to master all the functions and control the camera properly.
"...Perhaps this is the lens I'm using. By no means is the autofocus slow, but my previous semi pro DSLR rig, I could mash on the shutter button and..." Read more
"...Autofocus performance is as good or better than that of my A7, especially in low light...." Read more
"...The second big problem is that this camera does not focus fast or accurately in these low light situations. Many of my images are out of focus...." Read more
"...it does not have a touch screen like the GH4 which is a huge issue for ease of use...." Read more
Reviews with images
![2019: A Good Specialty Camera for Photographers](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/common/transparent-pixel._V192234675_.gif)
2019: A Good Specialty Camera for Photographers
Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on January 8, 2019Color: BlackSet: BaseVerified PurchaseI am a professional photographer and I have owned every other A7 camera including A7, A7S, A7R, all the gen 2 versions and now the gen 3. I currently shoot on the A7riii. If you'r reading this review then you likely already know enough about what this camera's amazing low light performance and want to know if this camera is still relevant in 2019.
The short answer is really depending on what you plan to use it for. At the $2,000 the answer is no for all scenarios. For $400 more you can purchase the A7sii and that's a significant upgrade which I will go into further below. However if you can find this camera for around $1,500 or less, then the answer is YES!
If you're an advanced amateur or getting into the photography or the video business, then this is a great camera. It is small, light, and powerful in low light situations without having to own flashes and other light modifiers. For video, most videographers will need a gimbal for smoothing out shake anyways so having IBIS (from the A7sii) may be redundant for your purposes and you can save some money with this camera. However if you are a working video professional, then most likely you should skip over this generation and go for the A7sii or the A7iii for 4k and 6k downsampling capabilities. However if you need a backup camera or a camera for personal projects, it still holds its value well.
I used this camera mostly for photography stills as a backup for my A7rii. While this camera is primarily geared towards video, in my experience shooting stills with this camera is great despite what others may tell you about autofocus and video. It's definitely not a main camera for photo stills (12MP is too low to deliver to a client) but works well as a secondary or backup camera for low light situations. Even today the A7s holds up well as being a legendary low light king that's unmatched by few others. Possibly the reason why the price is still around $2000 is because there's no other camera out on the market besides the mark 2 that can match the same type of low light performance. The A7Sii is essentially the same camera with 1 stop better low light ISO performance in a better body with IBIS. The IBIS may not directly affect image quality but it allows for far longer hand held stills and smoother video so that it essentially boosts the low light image quality by leaps.
Low light - This is this camera's strongest selling point. Low light beast. This camera will shoot in situation that no other camera can shoot in, and shoot it cleanly. People who don't know about this camera are constantly asking me to "turn on the flash" or "you'll never get that photo" and then are amazed when I show them the results. Simply put this camera is superb in producing "natural light" photos in low light without the distracting flash or harsh flash lighting. It's a unique look that few other cameras can really replicate.
Dynamic Range - This camera has amazing dynamic range. It's like having layers and layers of color and data hidden under each fold. You can literally shoot once and bring out colors and details you never thought were there. The files are extremely malleable for editing. This is especially true for shooting in low light. Low light shadows and
dark areas can almost ALWAYS be brought up for additional details hidden in the shadow.
AF - this is the main concern most people have with using this camera for stills. True, this camera has no phase detection AF and it's all contrast detection. However it's AMAZING contrast detection. I've honestly never had issues with it as it is fast, accurate, and works in the dark. The camera was made for low light use so consequentially the sensor's ability to see in the dark and focus in the dark is excellent. I've had cameras like the A7rii and A7ii which have hundreds of "advanced hybrid PDAF/CD" sensors utterly fail in low light. The A7s is always dependable in seeing where sometimes your eyes can't.
Battery - The gen 1 and gen 2 A7 cameras all have issues with battery life. It's a consequence of the small W batteries and it wasn't addressed until the gen 3 Z type batteries were introduced. But for stills photography where you don't need the camera to be on for 30 min at a time, it was sufficient with a second backup battery. When shooting video you have the camera on for hours at a time filming and will need to attach a second screen, mic, and extra batteries. For photos, get into the habit of turning the camera off when not shooting and turn it back on when you're ready to shoot.
Megapixels and Image quality. This is my primary issue with the camera. 12 megapixels. Even though it's 12 beautiful megapixels, it is unfortunately not enough. 12MP is the size iphone cameras shoot these days. I am constantly wishing there was JUST BIT MORE megapixels squeezed in there to play around with. Often it comes when I need to crop photos down for better composition. I shot this in tandem with a A7rii and I could crop the hell out of the A7rii's 42MP files to get to my liking. The A7s's 12mp files are almost at the limit of what's deliverable to the client. Cropping even 20% gives you 9MP which is understandably tiny. The standard in the industry is 24 megapixels and 12 is too little to deliver to a client. Furthermore, used with beautiful Sony G Master lenses you really can't make proper use of the lens's resolving ability. Small tiny details and textures are lost because the 12MP sensor can't record all the details. However with 12MP you have nearly unlimited image storage with a 64gb card size. The file sizes are tiny, under 16mb per file as RAWs. For things like Instagram where you're limited to a 1080x1080 size, then it's good enough, but for anything serious, it won't be.
At the end of the day you want to know if you should buy this camera. At $2000, the answer is no. For $400 more you can get the A7sii which with IBIS makes a lot more sense to a photographer or videographer. However around $1500 it's definitely worth it as a backup camera or a main camera for an aspiring photographer or videographer. I would say get one just to experience how good a true low light camera can be!
***If this review was helpful, please give me a helpful vote! Thanks!
5.0 out of 5 starsI am a professional photographer and I have owned every other A7 camera including A7, A7S, A7R, all the gen 2 versions and now the gen 3. I currently shoot on the A7riii. If you'r reading this review then you likely already know enough about what this camera's amazing low light performance and want to know if this camera is still relevant in 2019.2019: A Good Specialty Camera for Photographers
Reviewed in the United States on January 8, 2019
The short answer is really depending on what you plan to use it for. At the $2,000 the answer is no for all scenarios. For $400 more you can purchase the A7sii and that's a significant upgrade which I will go into further below. However if you can find this camera for around $1,500 or less, then the answer is YES!
If you're an advanced amateur or getting into the photography or the video business, then this is a great camera. It is small, light, and powerful in low light situations without having to own flashes and other light modifiers. For video, most videographers will need a gimbal for smoothing out shake anyways so having IBIS (from the A7sii) may be redundant for your purposes and you can save some money with this camera. However if you are a working video professional, then most likely you should skip over this generation and go for the A7sii or the A7iii for 4k and 6k downsampling capabilities. However if you need a backup camera or a camera for personal projects, it still holds its value well.
I used this camera mostly for photography stills as a backup for my A7rii. While this camera is primarily geared towards video, in my experience shooting stills with this camera is great despite what others may tell you about autofocus and video. It's definitely not a main camera for photo stills (12MP is too low to deliver to a client) but works well as a secondary or backup camera for low light situations. Even today the A7s holds up well as being a legendary low light king that's unmatched by few others. Possibly the reason why the price is still around $2000 is because there's no other camera out on the market besides the mark 2 that can match the same type of low light performance. The A7Sii is essentially the same camera with 1 stop better low light ISO performance in a better body with IBIS. The IBIS may not directly affect image quality but it allows for far longer hand held stills and smoother video so that it essentially boosts the low light image quality by leaps.
Low light - This is this camera's strongest selling point. Low light beast. This camera will shoot in situation that no other camera can shoot in, and shoot it cleanly. People who don't know about this camera are constantly asking me to "turn on the flash" or "you'll never get that photo" and then are amazed when I show them the results. Simply put this camera is superb in producing "natural light" photos in low light without the distracting flash or harsh flash lighting. It's a unique look that few other cameras can really replicate.
Dynamic Range - This camera has amazing dynamic range. It's like having layers and layers of color and data hidden under each fold. You can literally shoot once and bring out colors and details you never thought were there. The files are extremely malleable for editing. This is especially true for shooting in low light. Low light shadows and
dark areas can almost ALWAYS be brought up for additional details hidden in the shadow.
AF - this is the main concern most people have with using this camera for stills. True, this camera has no phase detection AF and it's all contrast detection. However it's AMAZING contrast detection. I've honestly never had issues with it as it is fast, accurate, and works in the dark. The camera was made for low light use so consequentially the sensor's ability to see in the dark and focus in the dark is excellent. I've had cameras like the A7rii and A7ii which have hundreds of "advanced hybrid PDAF/CD" sensors utterly fail in low light. The A7s is always dependable in seeing where sometimes your eyes can't.
Battery - The gen 1 and gen 2 A7 cameras all have issues with battery life. It's a consequence of the small W batteries and it wasn't addressed until the gen 3 Z type batteries were introduced. But for stills photography where you don't need the camera to be on for 30 min at a time, it was sufficient with a second backup battery. When shooting video you have the camera on for hours at a time filming and will need to attach a second screen, mic, and extra batteries. For photos, get into the habit of turning the camera off when not shooting and turn it back on when you're ready to shoot.
Megapixels and Image quality. This is my primary issue with the camera. 12 megapixels. Even though it's 12 beautiful megapixels, it is unfortunately not enough. 12MP is the size iphone cameras shoot these days. I am constantly wishing there was JUST BIT MORE megapixels squeezed in there to play around with. Often it comes when I need to crop photos down for better composition. I shot this in tandem with a A7rii and I could crop the hell out of the A7rii's 42MP files to get to my liking. The A7s's 12mp files are almost at the limit of what's deliverable to the client. Cropping even 20% gives you 9MP which is understandably tiny. The standard in the industry is 24 megapixels and 12 is too little to deliver to a client. Furthermore, used with beautiful Sony G Master lenses you really can't make proper use of the lens's resolving ability. Small tiny details and textures are lost because the 12MP sensor can't record all the details. However with 12MP you have nearly unlimited image storage with a 64gb card size. The file sizes are tiny, under 16mb per file as RAWs. For things like Instagram where you're limited to a 1080x1080 size, then it's good enough, but for anything serious, it won't be.
At the end of the day you want to know if you should buy this camera. At $2000, the answer is no. For $400 more you can get the A7sii which with IBIS makes a lot more sense to a photographer or videographer. However around $1500 it's definitely worth it as a backup camera or a main camera for an aspiring photographer or videographer. I would say get one just to experience how good a true low light camera can be!
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Images in this review
- Reviewed in the United States on July 11, 2014Color: BlackSet: BaseVerified PurchaseI had little interest in this camera when it was first announced, but after reading some of the reviews I decided to give it a chance. I was hesitant for the obvious reason: 12 MP. What is this, 2008? I understand why having fewer, larger pixels results in better high-ISO performance, but the previously reigning low-light king (according to DxOMark), the Nikon Df, has 16 MP, so 12 seemed a little stingy. As a street photographer who often shoots from the hip, literally, I like to have the option to crop, and 12 MP would leave me precious little margin for error.
First, the bad: Yes, 12 MP is limiting. People who tell you otherwise are either being disingenuous or only do photography where there's plenty of time to compose and adjust zoom or get closer as necessary. Any photography that demands capturing fleeting moments, including street and wedding, is going to suffer from the cropping constraints.
And yet, I still consider this the full-frame street photography king for two reasons: High ISO performance and the silent shutter option. I'm not interested in making night look like day, but the high-ISO performance allows me to use faster shutter speeds and greater depth of field so my subjects are neither blurry nor out of focus. I've never used any images above 6400 from the other cameras I've recently owned (D800, A7, E-M5), but with this camera I feel comfortable using 12800 and even 25600. People who say images are "usable" up to 51,200 probably have a different definition of usable than I do. Some claim the noise on this camera has a film grain quality to it; I think all digital noise is ugly, and if I want grain I can add it in post. Good thing there's just less noise with this sensor.
You may have seen the High-ISO shootout on the famous review website that begins with DP. Of course I could always use the 36 MP images from my D800 and shrink and normalize to 12 MP and get noise that's only a little worse than the A7S, but the D800 isn't very discreet on the street. I could get an A7R and try the same thing, but again, the shutter noise...
And discretion is another area where the A7S shines, both in its size and its electronic silent shutter option. I love the silent shutter on my RX100 and the very quiet E-M5 and Ricoh GR shutters. The A7S silent shutter is completely silent, as advertised. This opens up new worlds of possibility for close-quarter street photography, and was decisive in my decision to keep this camera. Just note that you will get rolling shutter effects if the camera is moving fast or with things like lightning. In such cases you can switch back to the regular or electronic first curtain shutter.
Autofocus performance is as good or better than that of my A7, especially in low light. This is puzzling because the A7 has hybrid phase detection whereas the A7S only uses contrast detection. I assume the smaller number of pixels and better processing/implementation are responsible for that discrepancy.
It's too early to say how 4K video will stack up against the GH4 since the Atomos Shogun isn't available yet. If I were a dedicated videographer just starting out I would probably buy the GH4, but for somebody who is already invested in FE-mount lenses this A7S is the obvious way to go. If you only need 1080p this camera is overkill--the A6000 and other cameras shoot very nice 1080p for a fraction of the price.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
Speaking of price, this camera is not cheap. At current street prices it's a full thousand dollars more than the A7 body, and the A7 is already a very good camera that has double the pixel count. So, should you buy it? I would say yes only if you need at least TWO of the three things at which it excels. Low-light video? ABSOLUTELY. Low-light street photography? YES. But if you only need excellence in ONE area, or do a different kind of photography, there are cheaper and/or better options. This will replace the A7 as my street photography staple, but I'll hold on to my D800 for high-res applications until the next iteration of the A7R addresses some of that camera's lingering issues, at which point I may go all in with Sony's full-frame mirrorless system. Maintaining two systems is expensive and inefficient, and I really think Canikon are losing the future by not recognizing that mirrorless is it.
- Reviewed in the United States on January 5, 2016Color: BlackSet: BaseVerified PurchaseThe sony A7S camera is absolutely amazing. It shoots wonderfully in low light. I bought this product used and it came with everything you would have expected. It was even wrapped up nicely in a foam sleeve. The sensor was spotless and no signs of wear and tear. The strap was never opened.
As soon as I started working with the camera I fell in love with it. It practically sees in the dark.
Buyer beware tho, the camera does everything and packing everything into a small interface means there are allot of settings that do not seem apparent out of the box. Sony has an app store that allows developers the ability to build in extra functions, but it ships missing a few key features.
You must download an app to perform time lapse photography. Once in this app you have to exit the app to return to normal shooting. Not a deal breaker, but kind of annoying especially since I'm an amateur photographer and when I'm shooting, I want to be taking shots not setting up the camera.
As far as customization, the A7S does allow you to set up 3 buttons to match your shooting style, putting features you use most at your fingertips.
All in all, grab a few lenses and this camera will take care of the rest.
All photos below shot on a ZYKKOR WIDE ANGLE 28MM F2.8 with a MD>E-Mount adapter.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E5T5BJW?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00
4.0 out of 5 starsThe sony A7S camera is absolutely amazing. It shoots wonderfully in low light. I bought this product used and it came with everything you would have expected. It was even wrapped up nicely in a foam sleeve. The sensor was spotless and no signs of wear and tear. The strap was never opened.Great camera, works perfect in low light, takes time to master all of the functions.
Reviewed in the United States on January 5, 2016
As soon as I started working with the camera I fell in love with it. It practically sees in the dark.
Buyer beware tho, the camera does everything and packing everything into a small interface means there are allot of settings that do not seem apparent out of the box. Sony has an app store that allows developers the ability to build in extra functions, but it ships missing a few key features.
You must download an app to perform time lapse photography. Once in this app you have to exit the app to return to normal shooting. Not a deal breaker, but kind of annoying especially since I'm an amateur photographer and when I'm shooting, I want to be taking shots not setting up the camera.
As far as customization, the A7S does allow you to set up 3 buttons to match your shooting style, putting features you use most at your fingertips.
All in all, grab a few lenses and this camera will take care of the rest.
All photos below shot on a ZYKKOR WIDE ANGLE 28MM F2.8 with a MD>E-Mount adapter.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E5T5BJW?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00
Images in this review
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