Sony A7R V for PHOTOGRAPHY review: 61MP, Pixel Shift, AI Autofocus

[@cameralabs]

My Sony Alpha 7R V review! In-depth look at the quality, AI autofocus and more! Sony A7R V at B&H: bhpho.to/3DTWIbC // WEX UK: tidd.ly/3DwivET Buy Gordon a coffee: www.paypal.me/cameralabs Gordon's In Camera book: amzn.to/2n61PfI / Amazon uk: amzn.to/2mBqRVZ Cameralabs merchandise: redbubble.com/people/cameralabs/shop Gordon’s retro gear channel: kzbin.info Check MPB to buy and sell used gear: bit.ly/3ULU9yL Check eBay to find vintage gear: rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=1&pub=5574908462&toolid=10001&campid=5338329149&customid=&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg Lost photos? I recover mine with: www.dpbolvw.net/click-100568658-13808570?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stellarinfo.com%2Fphoto-recovery-software.php Equipment used for producing my videos Sony A6400: prf.hn/l/pRO0wp5 Sony e 24mm f1.8: amzn.to/2TqWNzk Rode NT USB mic: amzn.to/3AdHcUp Rode Wireless Go II mic: amzn.to/3xkCvGo Rode Lavalier Go mic: amzn.to/3ygzzKY Godox UL150 light: amzn.to/2VpVbXE Godox QR-P70 softbox: amzn.to/3yQfGdF MacBook Pro 14in (16GB / 1TB): amzn.to/3PrKbPV 00:00 - Introduction 00:56 - Sony A7R V design and controls 01:49 - Sony A7R V viewfinder, screen and main menu 04:52 - Sony A7R V ports, connectivity, battery and cards 06:44 - Sony A7R V sensor, JPEG, RAW, 61 Megapixel quality 08:46 - Sony A7R V Pixel Shift and Motion Compensation 13:48 - Sony A7R V noise and high ISO 15:02 - Sony A7R V IBIS and stabilization 16:58 - Sony A7R V autofocus, AI, subject detection 23:10 - Sony A7R V burst shooting, action 25:08 - Sony A7R V electronic rolling shutter skewing 25:55 - Sony A7R V focus bracketing and stacking macro 27:07 - Sony A7R V Bulb Timer and long exposures 27:51 - Sony A7R V 1080p vs 4k vs 8k resolution 28:33 - Sony A7R V verdict and sample images Music: www.davidcuttermusic.com / @dcuttermusic As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

[@thomastuorto9929]

Would you say the A1 has better ISO performance up to 6400-8000 ISO in your user experience opinion?

[@cameralabs]

@@thomastuorto9929 I've not compared them side by side

[@vizmatter]

With increased processing power, first impressions, how did you find the dynamic range and colour representation by comparison to similar models?

[@cameralabs]

@@vizmatter everything I know about this camera is in the video!

[@starsunderer]

Did you do a video of the video capability of this camera? Can't find link.

[@BostonHooligan08]

Preordered and I’ve never been this excited to get a new camera.

[@TW-iu9zy]

… and you will not disappointed! It’s an amazing camera.

[@FlipGardener]

Now that you’ve had it, would you still recommend it over other cameras?

[@gunn1ng]

Gordon, a solid review as always, but I think you have actually underplayed this camera in this review. I have moved from the A7IVa a couple of weeks ago and for me, it's like night and day. Sure it's not an A1 or an AS7iii, and not for sports shooters or high demand videographers, but it's an amazing high resolution camera with a single stack sensor, and for me, a big step up from the last model. You didn't really talk about the new AWB which is amazing (not more just put it in Daylight and fix later), the blazing speed of general camera operation, the lossless compression options (a big issue with the former model) and the much improved general AF performance versus the previous model which has been a revelation to me. Not to mention that screen, which yeah has been done before, but not lately and it is much needed in 2022. I have also had zero of the eyelash focus issues that you described with my 50 GM, but have noticed that it performs slightly better with the 24-70 GM II. Sure the subject detection stuff is a little gimmicky, but this thing is streaks ahead of the A7RIVa.

[@avenegas0691]

What a complete, serious and thorough review of this Sony camera. Not even the people at Encyclopaedia Britannica could be capable to make anything better than this. Cheers!

[@cameralabs]

Thankyou!

[@TienChoihk]

Can't help saying it again - Review done by Gordon is a real review which you cannot find elsewhere.

[@cameralabs]

Thankyou!

[@Existensmaximum]

Great review! I just got my RV and I couldn't be happier. It's just such a joy to use.

[@Bernard-ux2eb]

Just upgraded from the A7R to the A7R III. I might upgrade to the A7R V in ten years.

[@adamadamis]

SONY's a99 II and a77 II DSLRs also had a similar repositionable screen, but the way it's implemented in the A7R V is the best design, and as of now unique in the camera world.

[@cameralabs]

AH yes, those were interesting cameras...

[@TW-iu9zy]

… jep, the screen from Panasonic comes near, but the Sonys is far better in terms of convenience.

[@MrBillkaz]

God if I could just come to be responsible with my money

[@MrBillkaz]

“New autofocus” always gives me a dopamine rush when I hear that .. I can’t help it lol

[@SamandSteve]

Simply the best and most comprehensive review anywhere. Well done Gordon. Still deciding whether to upgrade my A7R4.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks! I'd probably say not from the R4 unless you're finding the AF missing too often, or if you absolutely need things like built-in focus bracketing or the improved pixel shift for motion. If the handling is ok for you and you want better IQ, I'd go for one of their better lenses.

[@SamandSteve]

@@cameralabs cheers. We are wedding photographers and have all the key lenses already. I think I will pass this one by. Great job again mate.

[@drbeardo6960]

@@cameralabs thank u

[@starskymedia]

One of the best reviews of this camera, thanks!

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@everydayisextra]

I did own and enjoy the a77 and couldn’t quite understand why Sony would abandon this extremely helpful flexibility of the screen. It‘s so nice to see it coming back. I bought the A7M4 when it came out and I am very happy with it. This screen would have made it even greater. In direct comparison I see a bunch of new/upgraded features that are very tempting. Not sure if I can afford/rectify the purchase of the A7RV, but I can see the potential of having both bodies with a nice set of DG Art lenses from Sigma - maybe Santa has me on the good boy list… ;-) To you, Gordon, once again my sincerest thanks and appreciation for a review that is helpful from A to Z, it answered every question I could’ve thought of plus then some. Amazing work!! Can‘t wait to find out some more about the video side of this powerhouse, your input will certainly be super helpful as well.

[@cameralabs]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Xetenor]

What a fantastic review. So excited to upgrade from my A7R4 to the R5, totally worth the new features, especially the vertical screen tilt, focus stacking, faster memory cards and better AF. FInally finally we have those features!!!

[@Jawad.1]

You alluded to *Focus Stacking*. Does this mean that the Sony A7R5 stacks and combines Macro images within camera?

[@proper4036]

Absolutely brilliant review, thank you! I can’t wait to receive my a7Rv on the 6th!

[@cameralabs]

You're very welcome!

[@pb9292]

Great review as always; thank you for all the effort that went into this video!

[@cameralabs]

You're very welcome, it was another big one!

[@networm64]

Fantastic review Gordon! Can't wait for the video version. Would like to see the rolling shutter and details in crop mode compared to fullframe.

[@paulmarks7185]

Always the best, most thorough, no nonsense reviews.

[@cameralabs]

Thankyou! I wish there was a bigger audience for them.

[@RM-hy4so]

Excellent comprehensive review. Confirmed my opinion that the A7R V really is not an upgrade from my A7R IV, as all the updates are around the same old sensor with a slow readout . I guess in a way, this is Sony’s maximizing their return of investment on the development of the old 61 MP sensor to date. The Sony A1 while having a really fast sensor readout requires a substantial expense over other models, which is not an option for me. I have instead used the money to get some of Sony’s excellent GM lenses to use with my A7R III and A7R IV.

[@Huginn1000]

Why do you use two cameras? R3 and R4?

[@GinoBarasa]

Back in the Google+ days I did a few of the Mighty Mighty Trey Ratcliff Photo shows with you, and to this day there is literally, and I'm using the word "literally" literally, no one whose opinions on photography I value more than yours. I have watched a ton of reviews on the A7rV, but after watching this one I dropped the coin and I'll be getting mine in a few days. Gordon, you are a true treasure and I always look forward to what you have to say. Thanks bro. :)

[@cameralabs]

Why thankyou! Glad you found it useful, and nice reminder of the old hangouts!

[@castielvargastv7931]

I love the screen. All other designgs now feel outdated and bad. A camera should not limit what you can do with it. Great job sony!

[@bondgabebond4907]

Thank you for concentrating on the still photo shooter. I am not one who enjoys doing videos, I love doing stills. Please in reviews do one on videos and one on stills. I did most of my photography in the 70s and 80s using film cameras and love being able to make enlargements that can be hung on the wall or displayed here and there. What I liked about my Nikon F2 and FE2 was the simplicity. Now we have a ton of options. Some are great like the focus bracketing, while others are nice to have but not necessary. The only thing I wanted on my old cameras was autofocus. Having that on my current crop of Sony bodies is great. Sure helps when shooting moving subjects, from sports to animals/birds on the move. Thoroughly enjoyed your video on the R5. Will stick with my R3 as the cost of the R5 is a little too much to stomach.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks, I'm trying to separate most of my camera reviews into two versions, one for photo, one for video.

[@laredosportspics7490]

Gordon, love your work! I recently bought the A7rv with a new grip and found that the grip did not fit and later found out that that is an issue with the current grip sold and said to fit as per the Sony Corporate, but I can tell you that after taking it back to Precision Camera in Austin Texas I was told that I was among numerous a7rv owners advising that the battery grip fitment was off. I had a gap that I was able to see through. Was wondering if you had the same issue if and when you tried a battery grip with your camera. There is a big thread on DP Review regarding this issue. Hope it gets fixed soon and maybe you could contact some of your Sony rep's and see what's up with this issue. Keep up the good work. Thank You

[@VoicesofMusic]

Great review, as usual!

[@billoconnor2727]

An extremely useful review. I had ruled out spending the extra money on the RV--until now. I will probably wait just a bit for the "new model" price to come down some, but the focus stack feature is the bomb, I've already become quite fond of Helicon Focus. Thank you for all your hard work!

[@bobrose7900]

It's a flipping lot of camera for the money, slightly flawed in motion, but everything else is spot on. We don't all spend our lives on the edge of a football pitch - fortunately!

[@cameralabs]

Exactly, it seems a little churlish to critique it on burst capabilities.

[@TW-iu9zy]

… jep, the 61 MP are impressive in all terms photography - except fast action and fast bird photography. But this is no deal breaker at all.

[@NighthunterNyx]

MicroUSB is needed for wired remote control. It was absent on A7C and many were upset to use the Bluetooth remote. Is there IR sensor on the A7R5?

[@TW-iu9zy]

… no.

[@TheRealHarrypm]

It would be interesting to see the A7RV with M.2 NVME to CF-Type A adapters like being widely done with Type-B and very common with Cfast with SATA drives as its a very appealing alternative to SD cards and the high price fixed CF type a native cards.

[@video-carl]

Thanks for this comprehensive review. I never realised that Alpha cameras don't have automated focus bracketing until the RV. And still don't combine such photos in-camera. That'd be a big surprise if I'd been tempted to switch formats!

[@CliveTalbuttPhotography]

thanks Gordon great and fair review, I have had every Sony mirroress since 2015 including A1 and as a primerily landscape photog and last cameras in reverse order A7R7A GFX100S A1, A7R4A, GTX100S, A7R4, A7R4 .... you get the picture - then A7R5 works for me ( i thought it wouldn't!) 1) proper articulated screen, 2) 8 stops ( tested 0.5 second 200mm handheld and nearly 90% good enough images) 3) AI - i can take or leave as apart from pet shots its not much value for me. 4) 8K - no interest for me 5) better weather sealing +++

[@arthurgphotography]

Happy to see improvement on IBIS finally. Still not as good as my old Pentax k1 though. Can easily hand hold 1/5 and lower on that thing. But gonna upgrade for sure

[@cameralabs]

Always factor in the resolution too when evaluating stabilisation. This body is so high-res, it puts more demands on the system for a fully sharp image.

[@ForrestWest]

I hope they add that focus bracketing with a firmware update to the A7iv! That's one of the only reasons I would want to upgrade except for the additional megapixels for cropping.

[@cameralabs]

I know, right? I keep asking them, but I suspect it won't happen.

[@nyambe]

Only the Fn menu is available during recording video. I do appreciate 2 SD cards as one never leaves the camera. That is a live saver on a budget in case you forget your cards, which happens

[@Battlem0nk]

Think the a7RV AI AF does better now when objects briefly obstructs the face or even if there is no face like wearing a motorcycle helmet. Tested the X-H2, it detects subject face well, even far away, but if they move fast or you pan around, tracking AF box lags behind a bit. In comparison the A7IV was more sticky. Assuming the A7R5 should be equally as good? Maybe higher mpx & slower read out makes it worse? Also recall someone claiming the built-in mic now is better than prior versions?

[@mdc123-v2v]

I'll be honest, I am sticking with my A7R III - There's almost no discernible difference in the only two areas that should matter to any competent photographer - image quality and ISO performance. I can do focus bracketing manually and the view finder updates don't really impact my workflow. It's true, there are many features which make certain jobs easier but they aren't worth an additional £4,000 when I do not use AF at all (patience is far more valuable as a wild-life photographer than AF) and the extra MP's low light performance. Now, IF this had been a stacked BSI sensor, I would have gone all in on it no question, but 4k is a LOT to pay for a few bells and whistles that will make no difference to my output.

[@Huginn1000]

More than that, there are a lot of good cameras cheaper than a7r3, that can give you comparable results

[@brettrohlfingvideo]

Very interesting, looking forward to the video review!

[@mrmeowpuss]

I really hope they add that bulb timer to the A7IV!

[@cameralabs]

Yes, no reason as far as I can see that they couldn't. i'll badger them!

[@mrmeowpuss]

@@cameralabs thank you and I’d greatly appreciate it! It’s the only thing I miss from my R6 so would be amazing to have it. Great review and thanks again!

[@MrBjorkhead]

Excellent review

[@cameralabs]

Thankyou, much appreciated!

[@TW-iu9zy]

… definitely the best high resolution camera (with ups and downs) on market, if you not want invest in the Fuji MF system. Hands down, Sony! 👍🏻

[@MrBjorkhead]

Been waiting impatiently for your review!😂

[@cameralabs]

I hope it doesn't disappoint!

[@BenSussmanpro]

Who needs pixel-shift. I have the 7R4 model and it is so sharp- too sharp! And who pixel-peeps? Photogs should be focusing on composition, not pixels. Good review, though!

[@dylannolan7454]

I’d say I’d use it maybe once or twice a year, but I’d be happy to have it for those few times.

[@jasoniannetta864]

I use this camera to scan negatives for my film photography as well. For 35mm it’s not worth it but for bigger medium format sizes like 6x7/6x9 it allows me to scan at a very high resolution to ensure I’m not losing any detail. It’s a great feature to have for this, and the benefits would be even better if I was scanning large format 4x5 or up

[@bluecheese20401]

Can I just say...the use case for these cameras is more general..it can do everything pretty well. Why do people constantly talk about wildlife shooting with it? I can confirm it's very good at it...but obviously the A1 (£2500 more btw) is better. This isn't news. I upgraded from the R4 to the R5 last week and apart from lightroom still not been compatible (baffling) the step up is huge. The autofocus is excellent and the menu, ergonomics and importantly the IBIS is next level. Yes, you can get the same image from my beloved R4 but this just feels like a much more premium version of it. When I use it for wildlife 10 frames a second is plenty. 30 frames would be useful for the once in a blue moon moment but 10 means I'm not forced to buy thr scandalously priced CFexpress cards.

[@cameralabs]

I think since wildlife photographers often crop on distant subjects, they'll be drawn to any camera with a very high pixel count, hence their interest in the A7R series. For me though, this series is more about slower, non-burst subjects like landscape, portrait, architecture, macro, archive etc.

[@tristanolarti9671]

Yesssssss! So glad to see this!

[@TrevorMcGrathPhotography]

Nice review, when will we see the Adobe LR/PS update to handle the Raw files. It's ridiculous that camera manufacturers can't work hand in hand with software companies to launch both camera and firmware updates at the same times.

[@cameralabs]

That's a question for Adobe, I've no idea.

[@TrevorMcGrathPhotography]

@@cameralabs Thanks, Gordan. Please don't think I'm ranting at you. This is a Sony/Adobe issue. This is my first time buying a camera on its release and not having the availability of my usual editing workflow takes from the experience of what is a great package in the camera.

[@Folly_Inds]

I know this vid' is pretty old but having more zoom on the pixel shift section might have made it easier to see the discrepancies. as it stands the difference between the standard image and the shifted ones was perhaps a bit too subtitle for what you tube did to your image quality. or I'm blind. that could be it too

[@alsteiner7602]

Exceptional review as always sir

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@mack_solo]

27:00 - so the question is now is: can one stack auto focus AND apply pixel shift simultaneously?? 😀 - understandably for static subjects, but this system would rival mini-medium formats of Fujifilms and Hasselblads at significantly lower upfront cost for archival digitisation of art for example. Also I wonder if this would be the new astro favourite cam. Can anyone with a Skywatcher give us some pixelshifted Moon shots please! 😉

[@robertsaca3512]

Probably good to mention that the Imaging Edge software doesn't work on Mac with thr latest OS (Sonoma). Adobe should allow this in their latest software (photoshop etc.) so users don't have to deal with two programs, one of which doesnt work on some machines.

[@jukeboxjohnnie]

Screen doesnt tilt up for vertical portraits, no sale! Prefer the SL2 solution, damn thing glued in place 🙂

[@jonathanellis5811]

It’s worth mentioning that you didn’t see 8 stops of stabilization because the camera is only capable with lenses that use OSS like their 24-105 F/4 and the 70-200 F/2.8

[@andrewbrooks2001]

Very detailed video! Thank you.

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome!

[@AMPhotography]

Thank you for the review. Even though I am not in Sony club; I like to see your reviews. There is a certain calmness about it; which is becoming rare in youtube. Everyone seems to be coming from a rock band in most of the cases. 😀

[@cameralabs]

Thanks, yes, I prefer a calm approach, but sadly it doesn't get the same views as a more lively style!

[@AMPhotography]

@@cameralabs Yeh; world of show off unfortunately! 🙄

[@goldfinch2283]

Another good review! Thanks!

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@painter662]

Thank you, your review helped a great deal. Been trying to find some of the answers for days. Your review answered them completely and honestly. Thanks for skipping the BS.

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome, I aim to be thorough and nonsense-free!

[@shellowuy]

Thats so great review I would love to have it but not now 😄

[@sh8736]

Excellent video as always but having looked for your video first on day 1 release and not found it took the plunge and preordered and am now watching with the new camera in hand having traded in the old A74R. So yes worth the upgrade for me, screen positions resolution, view finder, sizeable files and focus stacking which I missed coming from Nikon, and the auto focus. Hadn’t realised that you could set stickiness for each type! A major dis advantage for me was A7IV had animal auto focus but not in tracking mode? Was hoping to see how you got on capturing gulls in Brighton. Another thing I’ve not seen other reviewers comment on is the transfer app. Prior to the A7IV you had to type in the ~11 digits of the host name from your phone. As this number changes randomly you couldn’t set it before leaving home. With the app you can transfer to your phone as you shoot. With the 2 newer camera models you can write the settings to the camera from the phone. The RIV seemed also to have a bug and it would randomly try to transfer RAW files and crash the app. So far seems good on the R5 ❤

[@mistermyxpyx]

You mention trading in the A74R (I think you meant A 7R IV), then mentioned the disadvantages of the A7IV, a completely different camera. Did you keep the A 7 IV? Did you mean A 7R IV and A 7 IV or just one of these? Hard to follow your comment.

[@terje5723]

Isn't the 8 stop IBIS dependent on a stabilised lens much like in the Canon R5? The 24-105, 70-200 II, 100-400 and 200-600 has a firmware update specifically for use with the A7RV

[@cameralabs]

There's certainly a caveat about it only being with certain lenses, but I don't recall exactly which ones. The 24-70 II is a prime candidate for this body though, so I wanted to see how it did.

[@RobRobCapt]

Great review Gordon, Just ordered an A7rV and can't wait to try it. I am most interested in creating high resolution frameable landscape prints How large of a print would be most reasonable to attain?? Thank you!

[@cameralabs]

That's a how long is a piece of string question! It depends on the printing res, your viewing distance and your expectations. For a lab-style photo print viewed from about 1 foot away, you'd print at 300dpi. So just take the pixel dimensions of the camera - mentioned in my review - and divide by 300 to see how big a print you could make at 300dpi. That's inches! But if you're viewing from further away, like on a wall, you could get away with lower res, like 200dpi, and therefore make a bigger print. And if you're not looking for ultimate detail closeup, even larger still.

[@enigmo20]

Awesome review, as always! Thank you for your in-depth review from a photographer’s POV!

[@cameralabs]

You're very welcome!

[@erik1836]

Thank you, Gordon, for your painstakingly thorough review. It was wonderfully informative and helped give me a greater understanding of the A 7R V, which is the camera I have decided I am going to buy. I feel I will be safely buying a camera that will have the ability to "future-proof" me for years to come. Some of the features like high speed sports or animal autofocus is of no value to me, but nice to know it is there! Other features you mentioned like stacking the photos as you showed with the 20 dollar bill section could prove helpful. Keep up your good work because, well, we inquiring minds want to know! SMS Take care!

[@cameralabs]

Glad to help!

[@erik1836]

@@cameralabs That's why God put us here; to help each other not hinder. One question that the answer to which would help me when I make my purchase. I want to buy a quality lens to go with it that will enable me to shoot closeups of flowers, landscapes and the occasional portrait. What would you recommend, assuming price wasn't that big an object, that would be able to fully utilize the wonderful qualities of the camera and yield results of the highest quality?

[@cameralabs]

@@erik1836 ideally a good macro lens. Sony's 90mm macro is good but getting on a bit now, so maybe consider Sigmas 105mm f2.8 Macro DG DN Art.

[@erik1836]

@@cameralabs Thank you, Gordon. One of the reasons I like Sony - now - is that they stopped the nasty habit they once embraced years ago; of making everything deliberately incompatible with everyone else's peripherals to force you to buy their overpriced -- usually - brand name products - as does Apple invariably and with craven hearted, coin of the realm in mind, plot from the moment they come up with a new product or service and now - in the camera realm - Canon's brain trust similarly has adopted; with its banning third party lens manufacturers from using their patented mount. This is why I never even considered a Canon camera. My feeling has always been that if you want me to feel the pull to buy your product? Then, make it so desirable I will naturally, and with justifiable reason, see the greater value it offers - don't try to force it down my throat by making it, so I don't have any alternative. This is why I have never owned an Apple product and now will likely never own a Canon product.

[@nickcarneyphotography]

Thanks for the review! Regarding the weather sealing, I recall previous Sony A7R bodies had a vulnerability in the bottom plate. has this been addressed?

[@PK-ql5en]

Has Sony finally implemented touch to shutter the same way it’s available on Canon and Nikon? (touch the screen to release the shutter)

[@MrTmiket0007]

Thanks for sharing another wonderful video like always 📸👍

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome!

[@just_eirik]

Talking about the way the screen flips out, I feel like the Fuji X-T100 has a very nice way of flipping the screen out. Wish more cameras would use it.

[@kevinastley2562]

Thank you Gordon

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome!

[@dwitede]

Is there any improvement in detail by using the full-frame 26mp mode? I have heard that it is downsampled from the 61mp sensor. If so, it would allow a better-than-normal 26mp raw image, which is a key point for me on the A7R5. I understand the APS mode is cropped from the middle of the sensor, but I was hoping the downsampled full-frame 26mp mode would give comparable detail to a 30-33mp full-frame sensor, and also less noise in high ISO shots. For me, 61mp is overkill, but a really good 26mp full-frame raw image for normal shooting and the full 61mp when needed (plus an APS 26mp image when more reach is needed, rather than cropping from that large 61mp file) would be like 3 cameras in one. You make sensible, thorough, interesting reviews. Thank you. I imagine it requires quite a bit of work.

[@cameralabs]

Yep, this represents two weeks of work. I do have images taken with the lower res modes, so I may be able to revisit this or update my web-based review in the future.

[@dwitede]

@@cameralabs Yes, even just getting the script down so it flows easily must take a lot of effort. The easier it looks the harder it is to do. A successful site and KZbin channel does not just happen. Regardless, the more I see of the A7RV the better it looks. It also can register faces, which for me could be a great thing. I might just have to buy it. :) Thanks again.

[@TW-iu9zy]

… correct, the 26mp are downsampled RAW files and very sharp.

[@dwitede]

@@TW-iu9zy thanks

[@TW-iu9zy]

@@dwitede … but we have to wait for the LR/PS update to work with.

[@pedrol.5417]

Great video !! It looks a fantastic upgrade from de RIV, and in some items over the A1. Is it Lightroom ready to be used with this camera?

[@cameralabs]

Not yet I don't think

[@jalalzahrphoto]

Awesome review as always, Gordon! Still trying to decide if it’s worth selling my a7 IV that I picked up over the summer for the a7R V. Since I just recently picked up the camera, I’d love to swap to a model that gives me updated/improved features as I’ll have the camera for a long time. EVF & LCD resolution bumps, AF improvements, etc. What do you think?

[@cameralabs]

Well it's certainly higher resolution, but do you want or need that? I find the A7 IV is perfectly good for everything I do, so would spend any extra on some sharper lenses like any of the recent G Master models. But if you look at your images and think they're lacking resolution, then sure, go for it!

[@mistermyxpyx]

Do it. In every aspect the R V is a better camera than the IV. Higher resolution allows you to crop in on your photos and still maintain pixel density. The improved viewfinder is much sharper - the one on the IV is useless. The autofocus AI is much better. Sell the IV while you still can make some money on it.

[@jalalzahrphoto]

@@mistermyxpyx I have the regular a7 IV, not the R IV. But your points are still valid.

[@jalalzahrphoto]

@@cameralabs thanks, Gordon. It’s really the AF and practical things that I’m really attracted to. I know the EVF and LCD would make every interaction with the camera more enjoyable on a click by click basis. The AF on the a7 IV is no slouch by any means, but it has been improved on the R V. Cropping would be amazing, but the file sizes will catch up to you very quickly so you’ll def have to manage your storage a bit more strictly. But are those things worth $1,400 USD?

[@RandumbTech]

@@jalalzahrphoto What did you decide? I’m in a similar situation. I love my A7iv, but the flip out screen stinks for stills. My local camera store is willing to sell a new “open box” for $3,500. That’s a no-brainer, right?

[@technodronesogxl9783]

Excellent review....

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@mikemaas5399]

Strange I was sure I left a request to have the pixel shift images uploaded to part 2 of the web review but it seems to have disappeared. Please upload them. I've been unable to find similar testing of the pixel shift functions and would like to have the original images to look at. thanks, Mike

[@cameralabs]

Here you go, I did it now for you: www.flickr.com/photos/cameralabs/52535837942/in/album-72177720303946672/

[@mikemaas5399]

@@cameralabs Thanks Gordon.

[@Jylakir]

Great Video! I wonder how the hight ISO performance compares to other cameras like the Canon R5, Sony A7IV or A1? Are all of these cameras are more or less the same or is there a big difference?

[@bestleaks5856]

Not sure about noise wise, but I’m getting no noise at 100-5000 ISO on the a7R v

[@gjb7966]

have you noticed any significant improvements in color science compared to the a1 (and other recent sony offerings)? I'm shocked that no one reviewing this camera has considered devoting some time to that in their videos, since it's one of the things sony has often been criticized for.

[@cameralabs]

I'd only mention it if it were significantly different. I'd say the colours and overall processing looks similar to the latest models. Which looks pretty good to me. What did you think when you saw my sample images?

[@gjb7966]

@@cameralabs isn't the ai-assisted auto-white balance supposed to greatly improve color accuracy? manny ortiz, another reviewer, said it looks a lot more accurate to him than previous models. judging from the sample images, i really like the colors somehow. they seem quite neutral to me. i'm glad to hear though that in your opinion the a1 seems to hold up in that regard.

[@cameralabs]

@@gjb7966 yes, there's now supposed to be AI assisted WB, but under the situations I normally shoot in, I didn't experience any Auto WB issues before. So I think YMMV depending on your lighting and conditions. I thought the A1 images looked tremendous and the A7R V certainly have a similar look to them to me.

[@Battlem0nk]

Some say Sony tends to show a slight green or yellow tint on skin tones. Think Manny Ortiz said it was fixed with new AWB?

[@gjb7966]

@@Battlem0nk Exactly. That's why I asked.

[@DavidVYoutube]

Finally an actual photo review of the photo camera. Thank you!

[@pablojimenez_photo]

Great Review, can you confirm that the burst drops to 8fps with autofocus, even in i'm shooting at compressed RAW, manual exposure / White balance. Thank you!

[@cameralabs]

Tbh, I can't remember all the specs and conditions as I've reviewed a LOT of gear since then! As I recall, only one of the raw formats supports the top speed. I mention it in the review

[@markshirley01]

How manageable are the medium raw files. I watched one review were they said the are still large.

[@Soundwave857]

can you combine focus stacking with pixel shift for ultimate resolution and sharpness? xD

[@billme372]

Thanks for spending time on the focus bracketing feature. Do you know if that is something that would work on the A7 IV via a firmware update or is special hardware required? I don't want to buy the A7RV for just that feature, but I would like to experiment with focus bracketing.

[@cameralabs]

I hope they add it, I'll try to find out more.

[@veselinvasilev9362]

Thanks!

[@jackcroft315]

Gordon can you make a video comparing a7riv and the a7rv for picture quality. the only one i found doing a comparison was tony and chelsea but they are so heavily biased towards canon it was hard to get a good idea if it's worth upgrading to and jared he just did a spec comparison between the two nothing more

[@cameralabs]

It would be tricky for me as I don't have the resources to have both cameras at the same time

[@jaywbus]

lens set to F22 has horrible digital noise on my Sony's. Esp. visible on the EVF. Is there a way to fix this? If I am at F4 or lower - the noise is gone. ISO setting does not impact any noise changes.

[@cameralabs]

I assume its actually closing the aperture to give a depth of field preview, but is having to increase the viewfinder brigttness to make the image lock 'normal' for composition. Maybe experiment with exposure preview functions?

[@apocryphal_man]

So did the video review ever come out? Can't seem to find it anywhere?

[@cameralabs]

Sadly not, I ran out of time

[@apocryphal_man]

Alright, no problem. Thanks for your excellent reviews and tje answer 👍🏻

[@NasrAhmadTv]

Good cam

[@gurugamer8632]

Are the colours improved from a7rIv to A7rv?

[@codyzimmerman2582]

Im trying to decide, a1 or a7rv?

[@TomMorterLaing]

Gordon please tell me which to get - this, or the EOS R5? For versatility as a travel photographer. Video isn't a consideration. I just like AF speed but need the megapixels & weather sealing.

[@cameralabs]

Both are great choices. I'd say choose it based on which system has the lenses you want at the price you're willing to pay. Also since both have similar photo quality and features, brand and how you feel about the look and feel will play a big part. Which you do actually want? Which will inspire to you to use it?

[@justanotherasian4395]

All the homies love the flippy-tilty screen

[@Jawad.1]

Do Sony A7RV and Sony A1 combine *(Pixel Shift)* images within the camera, or do you have to import them in computer and the Sony PC software combines them?

[@cameralabs]

Sadly you have to combine them in software later. Didn't I mention this in the review?

[@martinvonstoll4839]

Hi Gordon. Is there an issue with the Sony a7rv evf display quality dropping dramatically when set to high 120hz? The display exhibits a lot of moire when auto focusing. Although this doesn’t seem to effect the image quality.

[@cameralabs]

First things first, the resolution and refresh of the EVF won't affect the image quality, so don't worry about that! Second, many EVFs downgrade their res or refresh when focusing - it's normal, sadly. I suspect 120hz is only available when you're not focusing.

[@billx4266]

Hello Mr Gordon, superb review! Personal question, which one would you choose, the eos R5 or this camera? Thanks.

[@cameralabs]

I'd base it on which lenses I wanted and could afford in their ranges.

[@billx4266]

@@cameralabs Then i should go for sony, the good lenses for RF mount are extremely expensive here in europe.....

[@billx4266]

Last question, what do you think about out of camera colors, canon vs sony?

[@cameralabs]

@@billx4266 I like them both. It's like asking whether you prefer orange or purple though, it's entirely subjective and entirely personal. Which do YOU prefer?

[@billx4266]

@@cameralabs I like canon colors, but from sony are also good. so thats why im now back into sony land yippieee. I have the A7RV now.

[@scannorse]

Thats good, but let us hear about its ability to shoot in challenged conditions. You know dark, bad lit fx concerts, in intimate clubs and venues, typically light from side or backlight on musicians…..How do AF and in special eye-focus work in such situations ?

[@woodyw9798]

WOT! No seagull test!😁

[@cameralabs]

No, sadly I didn't have it in Brighton.

[@lizrosefisher1483]

When I tried focus bracketing it was dark and I could not see to focus and the camera would not allow me to use live view! Am I doing something wrong?!? I used auto focus (when set to focus bracketing) shutter 200 f/4 iso 200 Sony 90 macro using Yongnuo ring flash (Sony a7rV). I took the flash off and still had the same issue! It’s hard to focus when you can’t see and it’s a pain having to change focus mode to focus and move back to focus bracket.. Please share any suggestions!

[@cameralabs]

I don't think you can use the flash as it's an electronic shutter for the focus bracketing. Try Auto ISO to at least see if the screen brightens up. And or reduce the shutter speed. Or increase your ambient light

[@Universeal13]

Is this camera 61 or 60 MP? Same thing was with R4 In camera menu it shows 60 but in announcement is 61

[@cameralabs]

It depends how you round it. It doesn't matter.

[@jimavery3211]

I keep watching a7RV videos to learn if the AI AF would be better than the a1 for birds, in-flight or flitting around. So far the verdict seems to be probably not. And one influencer thinks the 4K 60 video is a little softer than the a1.

[@cameralabs]

Jim, the AF software has improved on the A7RV BUT the hardware is still driven by the speed of the sensor. The A7RV sensor is relatively slow, whereas the A1 sensor is one of the faster models, so the A1 should easily win AF contests. When we see the A7RV AF software on a stacked sensor, that will be a formidable combination.

[@huwmorgan51]

At one point, you say that insect photography will improve over time. However, I’ve been really disappointed with Sony’s commitment to firmware upgrades. Do you think the AI software will be updated on the R5 or will we have to buy the next camera to get it? Wouldn’t it be nice if Sony adopted over the air upgrades like Tesla.

[@cameralabs]

Sadly I fear the improvements will come on future models, but they have occasionally updated some models. My A6400 got animal detect later on.

[@dirtysouthtiger]

Sony's firmware update = Buy our new camera instead 😂

[@ArcanePath360]

Waiiiiiitttt a minute.... Are you saying that USB connection is for external power....? As in... don't worry about the battery dying? I have this on my Canon R7. Would be good to know if that is what it's for. I thought it was for transferring files 🤔

[@cameralabs]

Did you see my R7 review? The USB port can be used for charging and power as well as data.

[@ArcanePath360]

@@cameralabs Thanks. I just looked into it, thinking I could use my 2amp 5v USB charger, but it didn't work. Turns out you need 3amp and Canon's proprietary charger costs over £100! I'll not be using that then, lol. Great review on the Sony BTW

[@cameralabs]

@@ArcanePath360 yes, they can be fussy. You should be able to use any power delivery source on the Canons. I use my MacBook and Samsung Galaxy phone chargers no problem.

[@ArcanePath360]

@@cameralabs Interesting. I wonder what amperage your chargers are. 2amp was clearly not registering from my Godox USB charger

[@cameralabs]

@@ArcanePath360 I think there's more to it than just current, maybe some kind of protocol. It needs to be compatible with 'power delivery'.

[@davidjefferis5832]

Where is the histogram?

[@marvinspates924]

So is pixel shift equal on the a1 as the a7r5? Or is the a7r5 better in pixel shift mode than the a1? Lol or is it the software that improved for both?????????

[@cameralabs]

The software is better

[@marvinspates924]

Thank you for the response!!!👍👍👍

[@akshaytalari9351]

Sir do u think it's af is better than alpha1

[@cameralabs]

Different. The A1 sensor is way faster, so the AF can operate more quickly. The subject detection is a bit better on the A7RV, but I'd go for the speed of the 1.

[@AnshulM]

Great review. Too expensive though and I’m happy with Fuji 😊 How come Gordon is the only reviewer that covers IBIS for stills?

[@cameralabs]

Thanks! I think one of the problems with KZbin is that many reviewers are also one-person-team creators, which means video capabilities are forefront in their minds, and as such it's hard for them not to have more of a video than photo bias to their reviews. Video is of course critical to what I do, but I'm trying to do these photo-only reviews to address both camps.

[@hardywoodaway9912]

my experience with the a7riv was that the AF System wasn’t on the same level than other Sonys. It was more unreliable in low light and backlit scenarios. My conclusion is that the af pixels are smaller than normal due to the high pixel density. I guess it’s the same with the a7rv, despite the additional AI. If you shoot sports or wildlife better get the a1 or a9ii

[@cameralabs]

Interesting observation, although the pixel density is pretty fine on the A1 as well... but yes, for sports and wildlife, go for the A1 or A9 series.

[@bluecheese20401]

This doesn't tally with my experience tbh. I have had a A9ii, have used a A1 extensively and the A7R4 and in the end while yes the sports specific cameras were better for autofocus etc the difference wasn't enough for me to make a statement like the A7R4 was unreliable or not suitable for wildlife. On the contrary I would strongly disagree. But each to their own.

[@cameralabs]

@@bluecheese20401 this sort of real-life feedback by people who've used all the bodies and is able to compare the experience is very useful.

[@vigodrakken7916]

Not interested in Sony but wanted to come give you a Like Gordon!.

[@cameralabs]

thankyou, that's very kind of you!