Pro wildlife photographer Andy Rouse talks about why the Sony A1 Mark II is brilliant for wildlife

[@BarryBarfield-d7f]

I am a 76 year old Australian, a keen Wildlife photographer and yes - a Sony user. I am heavily invested in Sony glass and use the A1 cameras. Like many Sony users I was very disappointed with the firmware fiasco over the past 12 months, but we got there and my camera is now operating the best an A1 can and still streets ahead of my previous Canon DSLR kit. I have ordered the A1ii body despite the pricing and negative comments. In Australia the recommended retail is A$10,999 - whereas I have been able to pre-order for A$9800 ( approx US$6200). I have no doubt that the price of A1ii will drop in the next six to twelve months, but at my age time is of the essence. This will almost certainly be my last camera body purchase - I just hope the Sony will back up buyers of this flagship model with meaningful software updates and have learned from their bad experiences. Looking forward to using the new body......

[@Wildmanrouse]

Thanks barry interesting to read as I have no knowledge of any of it. I have just been using the system for 6 weeks or so and have been nailing some highly commercial stuff with it. That's what counts for me but thanks for the reply and the knowledge.

[@renestaempfli1071]

We both have the same year of birth. I am a concert and sports photographer with a lot of common requirements. Low light, high shutter speed, high ISO, fast AF-C, subject recognition etc. I use the A1 and A9III since there introduction. The A1II will be very similar to the A9III, exept it has higher resolution and none of the goodies a GS provides. The A1II will be the best wildlife camera. You will not be dissapointed.

[@Wildmanrouse]

@ I'm not

[@klmponds]

I think if folks were to actually go back and watch the video where you talked about making the change to sony, there is just no argument with that. As a pro you have to use what best suits the demands of your clients. Makes perfect sense to me. I've shot with Olympus for over a decade and have no plans to change but man, aren't we lucky to have such choices today?! I enjoy your work and can't wait to see more from you with the new system. Here's wishing you the very best in the upcoming near year Andy!

[@Wildmanrouse]

Thanks for such a lovely and supportive post. It's so appreciated and I agree totally with your words!

[@LisaSaffell]

The A1II has everything I was hoping for. I pre-ordered and can’t wait to have it in my hands.

[@Wildmanrouse]

I'm sure you won't be disappointed!

[@rajandesai9561]

4:10 spot on Andy. Great points. I shoot with Sony A1. Just recently started thinking about OM1 M2 with 150-400 for portability but for pro capture that was lacking in Sony (8.5 ibis on OM1 II) I think I’ll stick with Sony now these features and improved AI.

[@Wildmanrouse]

Well I can't really comment. I'm just interested in shooting pictures to be honest and don't get involved in the politics. And I am so happy now with what I am producing, which seems to be upsetting a few people.

[@rajandesai9561]

No politics. Just loved and agreed with your points that made sense to me. I was just saying that pro capture looked exciting to me and now good to have it in Sony. I also wondered why people are not talking about the pre-capture feature which is a huge in itself.

[@Wildmanrouse]

@ yeah I wondered that too and I still don't get it

[@renestaempfli1071]

​@@WildmanrouseSONY has done a great implementation of pre capture in the A9III. So I guess it will be the same on the A1II.

[@TW-iu9zy]

… welcome in team Sony. What lenses you will shooting with?

[@Wildmanrouse]

Covered in other videos but in India low I have 200-600, 70-200 2.8 and 24-70 2.8 plus the 600 f4. The first three are mine and will do me, might add a long as needed

[@tedmanasa907]

Wow your wildlife photos are a level of sophistication above the average. Much more interesting than most folks who are satisfied with a BIF in focus. Nice work and thanks for the review. I’m looking forward to getting my A1II.

[@Wildmanrouse]

Wow, thank you! Hope to inspire you some more!!!

[@roryhill717]

Background: I've owned an A1 since it was released almost 4 years ago and I also own an A7R5. I share your enthusiasm for the A1II, but I I have some minor reservations about the new AI subject recognition system for small birds in the frame. The A7R5 will not lock onto birds on water or flying above water or a busy background if they are small on the frame using zone focus area. Even with the smallest spot area it is hit or miss. That is the first thing I will be testing on the A1II. I think that Sony is suffering from the long time between releases of flagship products, where the users see new features roll out in lower tier products - 4 years is a long time. During the A9 and A9II, Sony released a significant number of firmware updates, but with the A1, not so much.

[@davehenson5390]

They are not 'suffering' from the 4 year gap - in fact this is normal. Sony users have been spoilt by Sony's drive to be number 1 - to the point that many Sony users I know have been frustrated by Sony's refusal in previous models to offer software updates but instead released a new camera that people have had to buy if they want an upgrade. The 4-year cycle for flagships has been common to Canon and Nikon for decades, and both of them would trial new tech in lower models before putting them in the flagship. Doing this makes sense commercially. In other words Sony has finally joined the mainstream.

[@Wildmanrouse]

I think to be honest they are doing nothing different from any other manufacturer. I know that from experience. As for the AF I will be testing it extensively as soon as I get one on wildfowl so that should tell me a lot. Thanks for posting.

[@Wildmanrouse]

Being new I have no idea about past models and upgrades. I can only shoot with what I have in my hand as a pro and it works. I don't get involved in politics as I have no power to affect anything, so I simply just get on and shoot. And it's been a great experience so far. Thanks for posting and answering 🙏

[@renestaempfli1071]

SONY puts whatever technology is available during the design stage into there future products. This makes especially sense, when designing new ASIC chips, as they can be used in many future products. This is why some of the new functions end up in lower end products befor they end up in the flagship camera. Many customers benefit from this strategy.

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@renestaempfli1071 agreed. I'm not interested in the politics. I just shoot with the cameras

[@ianpawson1356]

I don't think any of the camera manufacturers make a bad camera, too many moaning just for the sake of doing so. I've a Nikon D750, fully happy with it for the type of photography I do, personal. I'm not trying to earn a living from them, and at the end of the day the best camera is the one I your hand at the time. Thanks for the review, could be tempted with Sony if and when i eventually upgrade. And the photos are stunning Andy

[@Wildmanrouse]

Thanks so much and a sensible list with so much logic! You are so right!

[@naga2015kk]

is it true SONY does NOT have any camera that uses CFexpress B in 2024??

[@Wildmanrouse]

I don't care I use it it take great pictures and to me that's what counts.

[@matthewcullen7106]

Sony actually has faster in camera write speeds with CFE type A than Canon or Nikon using CFE type B, the standard might have higher absolute performance, but the original A1 could write to cards at over 655MB/s, while the R3 and R5 write at around 400MB/s and 520MB/s even with the fastest cards, and in either case, you'll invest in the cards used by the camera you're using and not worry about it after that.

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@matthewcullen7106 a damn good answer!!!! Thanks Matthew!!!

[@renestaempfli1071]

Who cares. A type cards are fast enough for the A1, A9III and A1II. I have been using the A1 for 4 and the A9III for almost one year in fast action sports and concert photography. They are even more energy efficient than B cards.

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@renestaempfli1071 like I said I don't really care I just shoot with what I have and make the best of it!!!!

[@johnsanderson9510]

Great video Andy one little snippet you may not be aware of is that the speed boost button can also be programmed to be used on or off so that you don’t have to keep your finger pressing it when in use, PS mine is on order too!

[@Wildmanrouse]

Yes yes yes please. It's my only annoyance with the A1, do you know if that applies now to all programmes functions?

[@johnsanderson9510]

@Wildmanrouse Hi Andy not sure if it applies to all the function buttons, sorry hopefully like you we will know soon though.

[@AR-vf7vg]

THE question is if precapture can be added by firmware update - on the A7RV or if it is tecgnically impossible in any way.

[@Wildmanrouse]

No idea sorry I am just the end user who presses the button. I understand why people are asking so apologies for not being any help at all!

[@pentagramyt417]

it's not possible. Sony does not add even small features (like focus breathing compesation), and you want pre-capture. It's just impossible.

[@AR-vf7vg]

@@pentagramyt417 Strange choice of words with this peremtoryness.. BTW I did not gauge likelihood of it to happen. As to if people would be ready to pay for it : blablabla.

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@AR-vf7vg don't worry they have been negative to me as well. Like I said thanks for the question and sorry that I could not answer it, please keep watching the channel and I am sure you will enjoy the inages I am producing.

[@pentagramyt417]

@@AR-vf7vg Wait a minute... You asked us if they add it, and I answered simply, it's impossible. How did you even understood it as beeing "words with this peremtoryness"? 😳 I swear, society is just getting more weird every year.

[@johnoneill7962]

I am so glad you have emphasised the incredible benefits of the Pre-capture mode. I sold my Sony A1 and lenses to purchase the Olympus OM1 set up 2 years ago but missed the quality of image in low light situations. I have now pre-ordered the Sony A1 mkii and lenses to run alongside the OM1 mkii system (which may or may not be sold on). I cannot wait to get some amazing images that I would not get without the pre-capture mode. Through personal experience I concur with your comments regarding pre-capture and I do believe pre-capture is a game changer not only for wildlife but also sports and event based photography and I am so pleased that Sony have ‘finally’ introduced it with the Sony A1 mkii & Sony A9 mkiii along with so many other amazing features/modes. Thanks for your video.

[@Wildmanrouse]

Thanks for being supportive of my decision to change systems and to backup what I said. Appreciated. To me it's not just low light, it all light levels where the quality and the depth is way ahead. The OM is a great system and and provides great functionality but as a pro it's the image quality that counts. I am loving ny A1 and the freedom it has given me. Thanks again.

[@terrywarne9474]

The Irony OM systems have many of the features noted in the video for a few years sounds like Sony have reinvented the wheel 3 OM1 bodies for price of one A1 mark. 2 know where my money would go. Yes Sony have probably have a better sensor but the OM1-II offers an awful lot for not much money but I hope the transition goes well Andy to Sony always enjoyed your OTT style of presenting

[@Wildmanrouse]

Well Terry you need to to watch my earlier videos then on the change and why I did it. No way you can argue my reasons and most OM shooters accept it that have commented and understand my professional reasons. Like I also said there u will always be a fan of the OM system. But again everyone has seen the difference in my images. Especially my agenda and they are the ones that count. And to be honest this doesn't affect us concern you at all as you are an OM user !

[@terrywarne9474]

@Wildmanrouse fully understand your reasons have watched your videos everyone needs to remember your a pro and you have to earn a living I have no issue I just find it funny that Sony has these unique features that have existed in the OM systems for a long while

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@terrywarne9474 yeah well OM has many cool features but pro capture was the only one I used so am happy to see that on the A1 ii with all the tracking and low light quality benefits. And for the record shoring with this new system has been amazing and most people have seen the change in my photography. Anyway be happy with your OM system and love it!

[@amermeleitor]

If you are invested in Sony it's great. If not, you would be better with Nikon or Canon. Latest Canon seems to have unreal AF, Nikon is solid too. And Nikon / Canon sells for lower price than Sony by a big difference

[@Wildmanrouse]

This is just my thoughts on the new body - people have to make the right choice for themselves ultimately...

[@Mthompson4545]

Hi Andy. I love your channel and look forward to all your videos. I have to say that, except for the speed boost button, your list sounds like all the things you had in the OM-1 Mark II that you miss. - Mick Thompson

[@Wildmanrouse]

No Mick I don't miss a single thing and I have never said I did. Did u watch the videos that explained why I made the change. To be honest it's changed what I do completely, my images look completely different and I love it. So I think you are missing the point about why I changed and also it doesn't affect you as you have OM and should only worry about that.

[@Wildmanrouse]

It's also worth saying that those features on the OM were great, but I also needed more IQ than most users and it just became more of an issue...

[@Mthompson4545]

@ Hi Andy. Yes, you were very clear about why you switched and it sure sounds like it was the right move. Your needs as a professional are much more demanding than most of us. I was enjoying getting your advice about using the OM-1 but still love to hear just about anything you have to say about wildlife photography. - Mick

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@Mthompson4545 understood Mick but I still give all my advice to my Patreon members. I mention OM specifics if they come up but all my hints and tips on there apply to all users. I will have a special membership offer on here this week for subscribers so keep an eye out I think you would get a lot from it

[@adammutolo5800]

Glad to hear your enthusiasm about it! So many people have been so pissy about this release, it’s been irritating! It’s a hobby for me but I have mine on pre-order and wait to shoot it. Keep up the great work, cheers!

[@fsi2210]

Meh. At this point they're all brilliant. I use an A1 and A7iv, have used OM1 as well. If aren't getting the image you envisioned. You're not working hard enough. More fps - great Pre/Pro Capture - Great More MP - Great But end of the day, you could get all the images you or I take with any modern mirrorless camera and preparation. They're all great.

[@Wildmanrouse]

Then you have completely missed the point of why I am changing. You can work harder than I did to get pro images out of it. For my need as a pro, not an amateur, the A1 is stress whead already so u suggest you watch my earlier videos to understand be needs of a selling pro. To suggest I am not working hard enough is just funny sorry, I think you need to learn a little about the needs of be professional world!

[@fsi2210]

I didn't say you're not working hard enough. I am an A1 user as well, my point is that hyping any camera now is ,meh, they're pretty much all capable. OM, Nikon, Canon and Sony. I see nothing extraordinarily better or worse, in their capabilities.In the end anyone dedicated enough will get the result, whether it's a professional or amateur.

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@fsi2210 I think a lot of people worry about the gear and see the reason they are not getting a shot as gear rather than skill related - but unfortunately as a pro I have to start splitting hairs when it comes to kit...

[@antonoat]

Andy I'm one minute in and can I be brutally honest, it doesn't matter what camera you use, you are like the postman! You always deliver, Lol. Now I'll continue to listen and watch the rest of your film, cheers!

[@Wildmanrouse]

Postman!!! I love it thank made me laugh !

[@mjsmith8741]

All the new benefits you have listed have been in the Olympus bodies for years now, Sony is simply catching up. Apart from full frame you have lost a lot switching systems, compact portability and the stunning 150-400 with built in 1.25tc. Again the other manufacturers are playing catch-up incorporating a Teleconverter into pro long reach lenses. You have and will always take fantastic photos. I think you will miss the compactness and portability micro 4/3rds gives you to shoot “on the fly”

[@Wildmanrouse]

I think I won't and I haven't for a single second. But why do you care what I shoot with? It shouldn't matter to you why I as a pro i shoot with something else. And you've massively missed all the benefits of shooting with a full frame A1 that I listed in my other videos. I will never slate OM as I am a a fan so I won't respond to you anymore as it's pointless since you have already decided everything for me about my needs as a professional photographer. Fortunately I know better.

[@woodymeristem2223]

Isn't it wonderful that Sony finally caught up with Olympus' ProCapture, custom focus points, and high IBIS. Congratulation to Sony for catching up.

[@Wildmanrouse]

Comments like this are pointless it's like playground battles. So why post not post something useful about how good the pictures are or wishing me good luck?

[@TW-iu9zy]

… and now itś time for OM Systems to launch their first high MP stacked sensor or better a GS sensor. 😏

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@TW-iu9zy yawn

[@Wildmanrouse]

@@TW-iu9zy I thought I'd reply again so you got the message clearly. I don't care. I am all about shooting great images and that is what I do. The Sony files are superb and that's is all I want as a pro so either deal with it, be inspired by pictures and learn from my hints and tips or unsubscribe. Either are ok with me!!

[@geffrardbourke4401]

Hoping for your sake that Olympus makes a real camera in the future, not a toy camera with a tiny sensor and and rubbish bodies. Oh wait, they will be out of business by the end of the decade. Looking forward to your shots with Sony gear in the near future when your gear is obsolete, oh wait, it already is.

[@pentagramyt417]

There is nothing to be excited about, before month of usage results. If you have all of that, without GM lenses, it might be all reduced by 50-75%

[@Wildmanrouse]

I think I've been a pro long enough and tested enough cameras to know she something will be good. With the same sensor and top sports pros already testing the AF and loving it I know it will be great for me. What I have achieved with the A1 so far shows that for anyone open minded enough to see.

[@pentagramyt417]

@@Wildmanrouse I'd like to see focus accuracy of pre-capture with 200-600. If the accuracy will be 30-35% instead of 75-80% then it will be a gimmick. Especially if you want "THIS" exact photo. Like, trying over and over and over for get image because of low number of focus accuracy will be annoying for the price. In instance, if that focus accuracy would be with OM-1 mark II (40-60%), then I'd accept that for the price I pay, you get me. Anyway, I'd like 200-600 update with XD motors, instead of SSM.

[@Piotr-zs8gv]

Moved to Sony from my beloved OM? Unsubscribing 😢

[@Wildmanrouse]

Shame as my hints and tips apply to all photographers irrespective camera make. Have a happy life with your OM!

[@vermis8344]

This reads like something I would have posted - as a p***-take. I can't believe people make comments like this with a straight face. @Wildmanrouse I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a bit sad OM went by the wayside, Andy, but you're a big boy that can make his own decisions, and you do make the A1ii look good. 😄 I'll stay subscribed.