Sony A7CR: Why Aren't Other Camera Companies Doing This?

[@btonelli]

Experience CleanMyMacX here: shorturl.at/KKaDK Get 10% off using BOBBY10 from now till October 5, 2024

[@rosbiffy]

@@btonelli I've been using this for years. It's so good. Plus, in a tiny way it supports Ukraine.

[@MichaelSeneschal]

I really like how this channel is not biased towards any specific brand. I’m a fan of photography first, so it’s great to see an unbiased and fair no matter what. Always great!

[@btonelli]

Thank you. This was always my goal here was to be non-biased and celebrate photography and tech

[@watarchives]

he's been like this from the start. This man deserve more subs and views

[@eric.ko.]

I recently picked up a a7cii moving over from Nikon. This is a incredible form factor for full frame

[@btonelli]

@@eric.ko. agree. Like the title says more company should do this

[@RikMaxSpeed]

Love this camera, have been using it for six months now. Biggest gripe is the size and resolution of the EVF. AI focusing and image quality are outstanding. Sony GM lenses are clinically perfect, and I enjoy using Voigtländer lenses to get that vintage look.

[@btonelli]

Yep agree

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

I’m very happy with this camera even though I have an A7RV. Actually the RV is what convinced me to try the A7CR. With both I have a backup which is smaller and has an identical sensor. Thank you and take care.

[@btonelli]

@@stevenwaldstein2249 great to hear. I’m also getting similar feedback from friends that have both

[@dimaphotographer90]

the same thing, when I have a bigger job I grab my a7r v but when just going to take pictures of friends and family, or even street photography a7cr is a beast, small and powerful.

[@jukeboxjohnnie]

I had a a7cr, but it just seemed pointless. I had to have the bottom grip on to balance the lens, then Im thinking why arent I just using an a7r4? It just seemed to lack things like a bigger EVF and joystick for no reason

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

Follow-up: Any suggested settings to improve the Creative Looks for colors that pop or for BW with great contrast? Take care.

[@25eazi]

I always set my creative style. I don't think most realize how much better it makes everything.

[@btonelli]

@@25eazi agree!

[@pgulysse1]

Thanks Bobby. I made a comment on your D-Lux 8 review about the potential for Lumix to come out with L mount rangefinder. Lumix has an history with mirrorless rangefinder like the GX8, GX9. LUMIX could take risk with a S7 rangefinder that could be an alternative to the Q3, but with interchangeable lenses mount. A modern body style GX8 with a grip, internal memory, IBIS, separated battery and card doors like the Q3, a tilting screen not flippy, BnW switch like tge Zf... sell this camera in bundles with Lumix primes, Sigma primes, well Leica prime for the more lucky ones. People has been asking for 43rd GX10 with PDAF... well what's about a FF L mount rangefinder mirrorless Lumix.

[@btonelli]

I think now with the enhanced partnership between Panasonic and Leica we won’t see overlapping cameras or potentially competing cameras between the two. Would be great, but I guess we need to wait and see what happens

[@bondgabebond4907]

Very fair review. I have this camera and am getting emotionally connected with it. But my A7R3 isn't happy about that. Thanks for the information about the creative look. I will be working with it as I shoot images of the strange plants in my backyard as a test. Thanks again.

[@yeungns]

FL is so good that I use it on all my photos with a7cR. Great blue/green and pleasing skin tone!

[@btonelli]

Agree. Since I “discovered” it I really like it

[@philippeneault7047]

FL for the day, ST/VV2 for night...I'm a happy camper !

[@markkuautio7831]

What you mean to FL?

[@markkuautio7831]

@@philippeneault7047 What is ST/VV2

[@btonelli]

@@markkuautio7831 creative looks. I talk about it extensively in the video

[@Aaphree]

Just got mine over Labor Day weekend and can confirm my handle also has some play when installed. I only have the 24-50 f2.8 so haven’t had any issues but can see how it will might be a little more concerning with a large lens on it

[@btonelli]

A little gaffer tape does wonders 👍

[@jdam28k]

Picked this camera up for 3.5k Aud on a flash sale and I’ve been smitten with it coming from an A7IV. It is the only camera that can fit in my sling/fanny pack so I’m so much more inclined to take it with me when I go out, I can’t really stress how much important size is on our willingness to use something. As soon as it become a mild burden to take a camera with me I would just leave it home, not the case with the A7CR. People are comparing it too heavily with the A7RV, horses for courses. Be real with what you actually are doing, working professionally? A7RV… just a enthusiast who likes to travel? A7CR no question.

[@btonelli]

Great price!! Yes I love how easy it is to take around. Agree on the enthusiast aspect of photography. This hits all the right notes and then some.

[@rosbiffy]

I started with the A7Siii for video work then an A7iv for video AND photography and enjoy it. I'm looking for a 3rd body for multicam shoots and am interested in the A6700 although APS-C. The A7CR would be great for photography. I should perhaps test to see how it cuts with my other cameras.

[@btonelli]

For video it’s actually quite decent as well.

[@sgpork]

Right.. size and weight does matter.. because it determines whether you want to bring it out carry it out whole day ornot... the size and weight may also determine what size of bag the user need to carry.. it really matters ! hence side track.. the 300GM is so good. Not everyone want to carry or use or willing to pay so much for the 3KG 400/600GM... size and weight really matters. ( I didnt say cost because for people who can afford.. price is never a issue) but weight and size always is a issue.

[@btonelli]

@@sgpork just got the 300 for review. Damn it’s impressive

[@stkuj]

I have the A7Cii for travel/street/edc/video (as my main is A7RV) - such a fun camera! I paired the smaller Sigma I-Series lenses. I do wish that it had a full mechanical shutter. Funny you mentioned Creative Looks, I recently changed my jpeg settings to FL vs ST or PT (that I've always used). I quite like it, but I like the colors from the gen 4 & 5 sensors. However, I do not believe (as you stated), that these settings are in the raw files only jpegs. Lastly, I will mention a few other things that you may not be aware of - the A7Cii/A7Cr can change (jpeg only) marker to a 2.35:1 aspect ratio (x-pan like) and dare I say "cinematic". Both the Creative Looks and Markers can be baked into the video files; you don't necessarily need to shoot S-Log3 all the time. You can shoot video using one of the Creative Looks too - like FL.

[@btonelli]

When I import the RAW files into LR the Creative Look is on those images, so not just JPEG

[@stkuj]

@@btonelli Wouldn't this mean that the "look" is baked into the raw which is contrary to why raws exist (unedited base raws)? I don't use LR, so this maybe a LR only function or setting? I use both ACR & C1 and this is not the case,

[@btonelli]

@@stkuj not baked in but the color simulation of carried over to the Raw file. So unlike Fujifilm where you need to select the film simulation for the raw file, for Sony it’s transferred with that look but you can remove it

[@joshcruzphotos]

Same experience with the grip on my A7CR. Thanks for the tip!

[@btonelli]

@@joshcruzphotos hope it helps!

[@POVwithRC]

Yeah, I just got mine in Silver, 40mm G strapped up. KZbin is feeding me CR content now. For anyone on the fence, I'd say do it if means allow. It's expensive, but it's not as expensive as what it competes with that has the same sensor inside. I came to mine after breaking my XE4. Since I own an FX3 and some nice Sony glass the CR was a good fit. I'll never go back. Also, FL gang 😎

[@btonelli]

@@POVwithRC silver looks great on this camera. Agree on the cost. No other camera offers this with this high of resolution.

[@LucaPetraliaPhotography]

Same feeling with the grip for me as well. For the price they ask for the grip, the feeling isn't really there. As an included item... Fine, but could've been better

[@btonelli]

Yeah the fitment could be improved. With the gaffer tape it feels great now though. Try it out and see how it works for you

[@LucaPetraliaPhotography]

@@btonelli I'll try, although I don't use it that much anyways. Thanks

[@ArminHirmer]

I love mine in every way. using Leica M mount glass on it and Sigma, Sony, Tamron AF ones. Used the grip just once, cant tell if it wiggles :)

[@btonelli]

@@ArminHirmer indeed, it’s quite versatile with the lenses

[@Bo_Hazem]

I have the A7Rv and shoot in lossless compressed L "large" and it's pretty good size and nearly with no IQ hit. Also you can choose these profiles from Desktop Imaging Edge program from Sony.

[@btonelli]

@@Bo_Hazem profiles are also in LR too, but it’s good to see what they look like in camera

[@Bo_Hazem]

@@btonelli Don't sleep on the Desktop Imaging Edge as you can add those or even move the image to Standard/Neutral in post with no issues to start from scratch on another program.

[@btonelli]

@@Bo_Hazem I’ll try it out

[@phoenixvette]

Honestly it's stupid the A7RV is $3400 on sale and this is still $3000 not on sale at the same time. The CR at $2400 would be a steal!

[@btonelli]

@@phoenixvette hopefully they reduce the pricing

[@JayJay-he9bk]

I got my a7cr on sale for 2500$

[@ronnierl587]

Im using a7cR with 16-35gm ii and 85 sigma. Really good from landscape to portrait..happy with it.. for daily documented gear. Oh.. i sold my a7rv for this😂.

[@btonelli]

@@ronnierl587 I’ve heard this from some A7RV users that they prefer the CR as well

[@frankfeng2701]

That flip out screen is an immediate deal breaker, which is also found on so many popular cameras these days. Pulled the trigger on the a7R5 without hesitation.

[@btonelli]

@@frankfeng2701 I also prefer the A7RV screen as well

[@arthurgphotography]

I would definitely get the A7R5 for the better IBIS

[@btonelli]

True. IBIS is good on the RV

[@jharrelphoto]

how much better is the ibis compared to the v? I have the a7cr and think it's fine. I am wondering though if its worth it to get the better ibis

[@btonelli]

@@jharrelphoto the RV is better but is it worth getting it over the CR. Only depends if you really need it. For some the smaller size outweighs the better IBIS.

[@bryanlovephotography]

This is one of the best cameras ever created. Adding the extra front wheel was absolutely necessary to add functionality. It’s such a joy to carry such a small camera that slaps. I also shoot Leica and for those saying this can replace it: you’re wrong. This is a different system and different goal. Leica is about the user experience of shooting only manual focus. The only critique is to add that awesome articulating screen on the A7RV. The EVF is fine, just wish the opening were wider. This is amazing as a travel and hiking camera but also for everyday life when you want autofocus.

[@btonelli]

I agree it has a lot of benefits. Yes using a Leica is a different experience but I would also like to see something like this from Leica. The SL3 while smaller than the SL2 is still quite big, the Q3 is one lens attached. Having a small body with interchangeable lenses would be fantastic

[@MarcAdesso]

@@btonelliLeica should really, really make an interchangeable lens Q3!!!

[@btonelli]

@@MarcAdesso I agree

[@DynamicLearning4u]

Glad to hear this objective view from a Leica user. *Thumbs up*

[@btonelli]

@@DynamicLearning4u that’s what it’s all about is to be honest

[@Sylvester414]

Enjoyed the review, especially the Fl and bw profiles which no one else has mentioned. I am on the fence with getting into the a7c system.

[@btonelli]

@@Sylvester414 thanks! What are some of the issues that you have questions on?

[@RikMaxSpeed]

ND filter is a must, I’m using the Voigländer 50mm F1 😅

[@btonelli]

@@RikMaxSpeed especially with F1

[@peleh1]

My grip also has that minor give, I'll probably put some tape like you did.

[@btonelli]

The gaffer tape is awesome for this

[@IntrovertAmateur]

Awesome to see your take on this A7Cr! :) Since I'm still debating with myself regarding the MP as I chatted you recently (thanks a mill again for your detailed answer!! and greetings to your dog :) ) this A7Cr is definitely the complete opposite of the MP :D Since you had the M11 in your hands including the files to edit (not sure, if you personally own an M11), would you say the voices online are perhaps correct that the M11 and the A7Cr share the same sensor? Or does Leica still did some red dot magic to make it look different? Keep rocking Bobby!

[@btonelli]

Thanks! And my dog says hi back :) Glad my reply on the MP helped! I don’t own an M11 but using one now for a lens review. I think the sensor may be the same, or slightly different for Leica (tri resolution etc ). I would say the benefit of the M11 over the A7CR is the faster electronic shutter to shoot wide open lenses. Outside of that, I personally find the ease of use of the Sony more enjoyable (AF, EVF) etc etc. the M11 is a much more refined and beautiful camera but at three times the price. Again when we talk Leica, price needs to be put aside but since we are talking about both here it’s to be mentioned. The A7CR is a more versatile camera. Doesn’t have the lust factor or the build quality but it’s easier to get the shot versus the Leica where you really need to take some time to get it

[@calebbornman3699]

What do you mean when you say the creative look is "on the RAW file"? When I import my RAWs into Lightroom the color goes back to a standard RAW look

[@btonelli]

When I import to Lightroom CC the creative look stays with the image. Not sure if you are using classic or CC, but with CC it stays

[@calebbornman3699]

@@btonelli I’m using classic

[@marcuswend7704]

I was wondering too. Maybe CC uses embedded previews..

[@btonelli]

@@marcuswend7704 yes it does. I tend to use CC much more these days

[@MarcAdesso]

I would feel more connected to the a7CR if it had a joystick to move the focus point around.

[@btonelli]

True. Would be nice to have

[@m3photo726]

Use the screen. Once you get used to it you won’t miss the joystick …

[@sjc6984]

You can usr the touch pad together with the viewfinder

[@ck81818]

With Sony, we can forget about Leica and Fujifilm GFX

[@btonelli]

It depends on your needs and usage. I think technology wise yes Sony is really ahead but cameras aren’t just about tech so everyone will have their preferences

[@Anatol19066]

Not really. This camera is a very good alternative to Q3, but GFX100-2 no way . Absolutely different animal..

[@replaygoplay7919]

tell me you know nothing About digital photography:

[@replaygoplay7919]

​@@btonelliSony is behind,gfx has no flaws so far unlike sony

[@POVwithRC]

​@@replaygoplay7919 Lmao your fanboy is showing

[@BehindTheNeedle]

Never used creative looks! Thanks Bobby!

[@btonelli]

@@BehindTheNeedle no prob! Try them out and enjoy!

[@BehindTheNeedle]

@@btonelli On it! Enjoying FL! Thanks Bobby.

[@btonelli]

@@BehindTheNeedle no prob!

[@Championizers]

Without adequate lighting, this camera doesn't perform well for its price. I ended up selling my A7RV because it was practically unusable in low-light conditions. The Sony A1, A7SIII, and A9III are better alternatives. If your focus is solely on photography, I'd recommend the A7RIII. It doesn't have the same advanced autofocus technology, but the image quality and noise levels are very similar to the A7RV and A7CR-and it's much more affordable for that level of quality. Just my opinion, but I was really disappointed with the new Sony 'R'.

[@btonelli]

Thanks for sharing your viewpoint. I would slightly disagree but yes most higher res sensors will struggle more in low light. I found the A1 to be a really solid sensor and processor combo for low light images.

[@dimaroscadallacqua9926]

I have the same issue with my grip too…

[@btonelli]

@@dimaroscadallacqua9926 gaffer tape solves it

[@o2mpx]

Creative Looks - video seemed to have said these settings apply to raw but digging into manual and web discussions, seemed Pictures Profiles affect raw but Creative Looks will not. Am I missing something?

[@btonelli]

@@o2mpx when I set creative looks to an image. When I import to Lightroom the look is still on the raw image. You can change them but what you set in camera does get imported with the image into Lightroom

[@o2mpx]

Super news. This feature does push it over the line to get the camera! Thank you!

[@btonelli]

@@o2mpx glad to help out

[@waltertan4508]

still sitting on the fence with this Sony... wonder how it would be with Leica M mount lenses with it.

[@btonelli]

@@waltertan4508 with this you can use the techart adapter and get autofocus with M lenses. Works quite well except for lenses with Floating Elements

[@janvirtanen9110]

Its not as good with m mount lenses. Because of sensor stack being thick. Corners are not so good.

[@btonelli]

@@janvirtanen9110 usually I shoot with vintage lenses so imperfections are part of the territory

[@janvirtanen9110]

@@btonelli i understand. I wish this sony had proper viewfinder. Like in a7riv. Even if it had made body slightly taller.

[@btonelli]

@@janvirtanen9110 true I wish that as well

[@Mizai]

were are already parting ways so fast just too much sponsorship here im paying for youtube premium and shouldn't have to listen to ads

[@btonelli]

I’m sorry to see you go. Hope you understand that these ads help me keep the channel going. It’s a lot of time and money I put out for every video. Thanks for watching though

[@SimeonKolev]

2:10 what about if you are shooting people who wear clothes :) line skipping is not about resolution. It is about moire and bad noise performance. Also in human made environment you will always find straight lines and textures to make moire. 8K on the A7rV is pointless, that sensor is so slow that you have to crop a lot and the rolling shutter make it unusable if the camera is moving even slowly. You can shoot slow moving objects from a tripod... And moire is something anybody can see on youtube :)

[@btonelli]

I’ve shot with both and didn’t see any issues and I was wearing clothes :) if you search for imperfections you can see issues even with Red cameras, especially when it comes to noise, but productions still use them. Based on my experience, for the type of content we see on KZbin, the average viewer can’t tell the difference. Movies and TV sure, but for the average creator? Nah

[@filmzfilmz]

Correct you can shoot so bad with this camera blown out or dark and still bring back everything that you need

[@btonelli]

@@filmzfilmz yeah the DR on this sensor is fantastic

[@eric.ko.]

I recently picked up a a7cii and with small primes… boy oh boy… making me consider dumping Fujifilm

[@btonelli]

Solid camera as well. Did a video on that a month plus ago

[@rhalfik]

The answer is actually quite simple. Fuji is making similar cameras, while Canikon are focused on the performance so much that they make slightly bigger ones. The reason you want a big camera is heat. Sony has been compacting their models for quite some time now, so they got good at it, but smaller body still causes problems with performance including noise and overheating. Small cameras also only make so much sense with smaller lenses and Canikon specifically are not good at making them. It's just a Sony thing. You get 85mm 1.4 instead of 1.2 as size compromise. Canon is including vents for cooling while recording the video.

[@Benjamin_Jehne]

All Sony bodies got bigger and bigger over the generations 🤷‍♂️. Compare an A7RI and an A7RV and you won’t belive that this is the same category of camera. Sony just downsizing it’s lenses, but not the bodies. The A7CI was smaller, too.

[@btonelli]

Yes they have had to increase the size over time in their cameras to compensate for heat. Also what Sony does is not get into all the codecs like Canon and Nikon. No ProRes Raw, no BM Raw, they keep it relatively simple. Also I would rather have compact 1.4 then 1.2 that are monsters to carry around. I can vouch for carrying a bunch of massive lenses is not fun especially if you want to travel

[@m3photo726]

@@btonelliExactly. When I had the a6000 and a6400 my most used lens was the wonderful 20mm pancake. Now on the a7CR it’s usually the Zeiss 35mm f2.8 or the 24mm G f2.8. Now I’ll probably even sell the 55 Zeiss for the 50 G 2.5 …

[@btonelli]

@@m3photo726 heard the 50 2.5 is a solid lens

[@livejames9374]

Re: the title. From what I’ve seen and heard from retailers this model is not a high volume seller.

[@btonelli]

I guess depends on the market. Here in Asia the a7C II and a7CR do quite well.

[@seanroberts8553]

Deal breaker for me is no full mechanical shutter.

[@btonelli]

@@seanroberts8553 I normally use first curtain shutter anyways to reduce shutter shock so this omission doesn’t really bother me

[@seanroberts8553]

@@btonelli read out speed for this particular sensor is too slow. In just about every camera I’ve seen, EFC has its penalties. I get it, it’s a cost and compromise scenario and choices have to be made. For the ultimate street camera, they should use the A9III sensor, fix the stupid add on grip and there you go. Ultimate small form factor camera for carrying and capturing life’s moments.

[@jeroenvdw]

Not for pro's though, only 1 sd card slot so if it fails you're screwed.

[@btonelli]

for pro work probably A7Rv but cards have gotten better over the years.

[@jeroenvdw]

@@btonelli True i've never had one fail me, but I guess it's just peace of mind with 2

[@btonelli]

@@jeroenvdw true

[@Dr.T-Bomb]

So *not for anxious people* rather than *not for pros*... 😂

[@jeroenvdw]

@@Dr.T-Bomb Well if a failure happens you have nothing to show your clients. Imagine shooting a wedding and with the low chance of it happening it actually does. Wedding is over, you come home and the card is corrupted. What would you say? 😂

[@davidmurray5926]

Tilt screen needed …. Fck that damn, ubiquitous, slow, obtrusive side hinged flippy, flappy, take forever rear screen.

[@btonelli]

Haha I understand. I wish it had the A7RV screen

[@fastguitars4380]

The flip out screen is the enemy.

[@RikMaxSpeed]

I rarely use it, and rely on the (not great) EVF instead.

[@michaelgannon2358]

I’m thinking that shutter has a short lifespan.

[@btonelli]

@@michaelgannon2358 not sure on that one. I guess we will find out in years to come

[@natureredux1957]

Just about any Camera can be set to Full Manual Mode. So folks pretending as if that overrated and overpriced Niche brand is somehow Different and unique are basically just Full of themselves.

[@btonelli]

Not sure what brand you mean. All cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. Some purchase for the tech, others for the feel

[@dannyli9424]

Because I would not want a Canon or Nikon like that

[@btonelli]

@@dannyli9424 why not

[@warpspeed9877]

Well...Sigma made the FP-L with the same Sony 61MP sensor some years ago...and even smaller body and with better video capabilities...but hey Sigma doesn't splurge money in lavish events and paid accomodations...😉

[@btonelli]

@@warpspeed9877 some differences. Similar or same sensor yes. FP-L has a slower electronic sensor where as the Sony has a first curtain shutter and electronic shutter. Better AF and EVF. Btw I’ve never been invited to any of these expensive trips. I just get cameras and lenses to review.

[@neilmarshall9408]

👍🏾

[@btonelli]

Thanks!

If you are going to use a grip why buy A7c line 😅

[@btonelli]

Because you have the option to have it or not.

[@RR_Zephy]

Can break it apart and well its boxier vs the original? So space saving Original has a bulge thingy for the evf

[@sundeepsembi6091]

I agree , with the grip it becomes indistinguishable in size to the A7R5 , so why would you ? Surely the selling point of the CR is it’s reduced size

[@btonelli]

@@sundeepsembi6091 you have the option to go without the grip.

[@m3photo726]

I use the grip for attaching the camera to my tripod. I had a Really Right Stuff L bracket left over from my Nikon days and have it firmly screwed into the grip. Now, putting this combo on the a7CR body is far quicker with the thumb wheel and I don’t have to fiddle with the little hex wrench any more …

[@OhhhhhhhBugger]

Too bad I hate Sony LOL.

[@btonelli]

@@OhhhhhhhBugger why?

[@RikMaxSpeed]

Love this camera, have been using it for six months now. Biggest gripe is the size and resolution of the EVF. AI focusing and image quality are outstanding. Sony GM lenses are clinically perfect, and I enjoy using Voigtländer lenses to get that vintage look.

[@btonelli]

@@RikMaxSpeed yes hopefully they make the EVF slightly bigger and higher res

[@m3photo726]

Frankly, with such a large file I’m not worried about getting everything spot on in the viewfinder, given the excellent autofocus that comes with the camera. With 60Mp there’s ample room for correction. And that’s from a Kodachrome man whose composition was crucial … 😀