Sony a6000 detailed hands on review (ILCE-6000)

A hands on review of the Sony a6000 digital still/video camera. Detailed and visual demonstration of features and functions with lots of sample photos.
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[@ChanchalBose-MostlyLinux]

Very precise yet comprehensive presentation. I bought my A6000 after seeing this video. Well done Maarten.

[@dyahayuable]

I am a beginner on photography. Sony alpha 6000 is my first camera I have, and your "easy" review helps me lots to understand my camera. Thanks :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Dyah ayu putri That's very kind of you to say, always glad to hear from someone who's found my videos useful.

[@964tractorboy]

This was the first of your videos I've seen. I appreciate the style and the thoroughness. You touched on details I was unaware of and helped to reinforce this camera as a likely first mirrorless purchase; unless they release an update. A massive thank you.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

964tractorboy Thanks for the enthusiastic support - I do try to be thorough (and I appreciate Sony's patience in allowing me to borrow the camera for such a long loan). Keep your eyes on sonyalpharumours.

[@NILSLANGENBACHER]

one of the best videos of the a6000! Great job

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Nils Langenbacher That's very kind of you to say, thank you very much.

[@itssesha24]

+Maarten Heilbron Thanks for the video! Does it have wifi? How would you send videos to a computer?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, it has wifi. The only way to transfer videos is by transferring them, either by copying them from the SD card or via USB.

[@itssesha24]

+Maarten Heilbron What camera would you recommend for vlogging?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Probably the Panasonic GH7 - good quality video with a flip screen. Canon G7X also a good candidate.

[@TakingShapeCreations]

At 2:22 those issues with the mode dial have been addressed with the Sony a6300. Its just up to them to do something about that movie button now. You did a wonderful job here, can't wait for you to review the Sony A6300.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+TakingShapeCreations Wow. I feel like you're looking over my shoulder, I'm just assembling a list of issues from the A6000 to consider in my A6300 review - I'm anxiously awaiting my unit, I'm told next week seems likely. I was looking for the manual, but haven't seen it yet. If they have addressed those issues, it's a first. I don't need a separate setting for Panorama, but I am starting to have a better feeling of the role of the movie setting. For instance, there's no audio on the HDMI out until you go to movie mode. And sadly there's no ability to set white balance in movie mode. I'm thinking about making the list into a blog post (maartech.com) or using it to kickoff my Tumblr. And thanks so much for the kind words, always appreciated - do let me know if there's a specific issue that you'd like to see addressed in the review.

[@VickyBro]

The photos taken were so good that I sometimes would miss what he was saying.

[@parmindersbedi]

This is the best review of the Sony A6000 I've seen. Detailed with lots of photos.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for the kind words.

[@meh-hair-Vaughn]

***** No problem! I was wondering if you could provide us with a few RAW image samples from the Sony A6000 camera so that we can play around with them in Lightroom and see how much and to what extent we can pull up the shadows and bring down the highlights to see what kind of a dynamic range does this camera offer... I would really appreciate that... I ask this of you because I currently own a Fujifilm X100S and I'm not really impressed with the dynamic range that it offers. So before buying the A6000, I was wondering if I could get a sense of the dynamic range because I only shoot RAW and edit my photos in Lightroom. You can check out the video I made on the Fujifilm X100S on my channel! Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

XxHardcorexxGamerxX Thanks. I'll check out the video. Let me know which images you'd like in RAW format (either by time in the video, or name on flickr) and the best way to get them to you - dropbox, email or ???

[@meh-hair-Vaughn]

***** I would be extremely grateful if you could provide the unedited RAW files of the images at 1:08, 1:19, 6:39, 6:41, 9:03, 9:28, 9:49, 9:51, 9:59, 11:32, 11:37. You can either email them to me on xylosx(@)gmail.com but I think that would be very inconvenient. What would be best is if you could upload them to your dropbox and post the download link in the description of this video so that others can benefit from it as well... :-)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

XxHardcorexxGamerxX I'll post those in a shared dropbox folder in the next day or two, which I am happy to share with anyone who provides me their dropbox email address. It might be best to send me your email in a DM.

[@daveeverett9341]

One of the better (and refreshingly unique) reviews of the a6000. ...and I think I've viewed all the others here on KZbin prior to, and even after purchasing my copy. I feel that you should be my travel guide as well as photo equipment reviewer! Thanks!

[@Aschrafo]

I think i saw most of the reviews in english and german. This is the best so far. Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Aschrafo Thank you for your very kind words. Danke schoen.

[@MilosPaprica]

This is by far the best review of the sony a6000 I've seen. I've been looking at reviews since the camera came out, all lacked the the depth that you expressed. I have been considering going mirrorless and I think now I will be buying this camera thanks to your review

[@meh-hair-Vaughn]

I agree. This guy's a very underrated camera reviewer! He needs more subs. ;-)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You are very kind.

[@kennethpreston7022]

Very nice review! Nice to see a review that isn't filled with jump cuts, bad audio edits AND excessively rambling pointless comments. Good job.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Kenneth Preston Thank you so much for your very kind comment - those are three things that I do my best to avoid.

[@diwahar506]

best review of Sony a6000 on KZbin

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for the kind words, always appreciated.

[@diwahar506]

How many shots could you take with fully charged a6000

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Depends on any number of factors including the time between shots, the temperature etc. Best to check the specs that provide it measured by an industry standard, but be aware it's for comparison purposes only. Remember, you could always (as I would highly recommend for any camera) buy at least one extra battery. And the A6300 can be live-powered from USB, so you can use your phone charger battery with it.

[@diwahar506]

Thanks maarten.:-) your info was very much useful

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always happy to help.

[@elaineross9365]

Excellent, intricate yet concise video. Love your style Maarten. I've had this camera over a year and have still learned a lot from this video. Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

My goodness - what kind words! So pleased you took the time to comment, and it's always rewarding to hear that viewers have found my content helpful. I often tell friends that I'd do this (play with cameras, make videos, etc) anyway (after all, there's no money to be made here) - but I'm always happy to know that others appreciate this work.

[@renjithcr]

The best alpha 6000 review so far. Got my new alpha 6000 today!!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Renjith Nair Thanks for posting such kind words, enjoy.

[@SirSnoozebutton]

One of the best reviews I've seen so far on this camera. It answered pretty much everything I was wondering about. I got rid of my big DSLR, and I've narrowed my choices down to the A6000 and the7. I just wish you had a review of the A7 as well :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Froudini You'll find my review of the A7R here: heilbron.com/sony-a7r-hands-on-review/ I do hope to get to the A7S this fall.

[@liz51765]

Excellent review, very thorough and presented in very professional and informative manner. I like the way you incorporated the camera settings and pictures as you went. I just got this camera for Christmas and at first it felt too lightweight to be high quality, but now I realize it has so much potential and I actually LOVE the lighter feel! My first night with it, I got super crisp, tack-sharp focused photos. Was able to navigate manual mode fairly easily too, even though I am used to one of the other "big 2" competitors! I think I'm going to like it a lot! Thank you Mr. Heilbron!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I thank you for the kind words, it's always nice to hear from a viewer who found the information helpful or interesting. And I'm with you, I own an A6000, and am happy with it every time I go shooting with it, which because I often have another camera to review, isn't as often as I'd like.

[@karlpeart4320]

Think u should have used the kit lens for this review. Using a 500:quid zeis lens for me gives the wrong impression although the kit lens is an awesome lens aswell

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Karl Peart Although I tend to agree with your comment - I don't think there's anything about the Sony/Zeiss 16-70 or the A6000 that gives the wrong impression. At the time of the review, Sony had a body available to me for review without the kit lens.

[@karlpeart4320]

Well if u didn't have the kit lens u should have stated this in the description

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Karl Peart My apologies, I thought it was evident.

[@karlpeart4320]

***** I do owe u an apology in some respects

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Karl Peart I'm always happy to learn - I appreciate your participation.

[@AFlyingRock]

A very clean and well paced review. Highly appreciated!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

AFlyingRock I appreciate your kind comment.

[@RealWorld]

Nice review. I have been shooting traditional DSLRs (Nikon) for many years and recently acquired the Sony a6000 and Canon 70D (looking for a good camera to do both photo and video). The Sony is different, but I am starting to really like it.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+RealWorld Thanks for the kind words. Me too, of all of the cameras I've reviewed, this is one of the few I bought. Very happy with my purchase.

[@GrandmasterBBC]

I just received my new A6000 a few days ago. This is an upgrade from my old trusty NEX-F3. Although I have not had much chance to test it thoroughly yet, I am very impressed with the performance and feature set. Thanks for the very comprehensive video review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for the kind words - good shooting!

[@panther105]

I don't think anyone else even comes close to the thoroughness of the reviews you provide. So glad I found you and subscribed.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind of you to say, thanks. And thanks for the sub.

[@adamhlj]

Hey, Maarten! I don't know if you know this or not, but at the end you mention the lack of GPS. If you connect to a smart phone so the smart phone is the remote, it uses the GPS of the phone! Kinda cool, tho a little cumbersome to have to use the phone. This also works with the RX-100m3.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Adam McGrath Good note, thanks for pointing that out - always glad to hear about something I missed.

[@laurencegr5338]

This excellent review is the reason why I acquired the a6000 in 2019.Thanks, Maarten. The Sony a6000 is still relevant and excellent camera with the right lenses and settings.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate your kind words. Agreed, as long as you don't need 4K video, it remains an excellent value.

[@zyk418violet]

ive watched a lot of reviews for sony a6000, some are long and short or summarize and lots of talks but your review is the best one, with a great preview of how beautiful sony a6000 and its menu, its a walkthrough for a6000 its like im viewing a real a6000 with your review, thanks a lot for this review,

[@MaartenHeilbron]

eric meneses I certainly appreciate your kind remarks - thanks for watching!

[@abhiizone]

Very precise and great review. Love from India :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Abhishek Verma Thanks for your kind comment.

[@gustavofranco5148]

Thank you so much for your review. I bought the gx7 and I had to return it because the image quality, even at raw, was not any better than my t3i. I ended up buying the a6000 open box at best buy for $345 plus tax and I am in love. This camera is so small, so responsive and has perhaps one of best sensors for under $800. Mirrorless is the future and once again, thank you for this informative review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Gustavo Franco That's very kind of you to say - and like you I am in love with my A6000. Thanks for commenting.

[@gustavofranco5148]

I just bought the Sony 50mm 1.8 OSS and I am now fully committed. I've never had this much fun with a camera before. What other affordable lens options do you recommend? Also, do you know of any flash for the a6000 that allow high speed sync with the flash set to ceiling bounce? Please let me know and thank you in advance!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Gustavo Franco I recommend that you join the Google+ group for the A6000 - there are lots of people with good advice there. I own the Sony HVL F60M flash, which does that and so much more, but it's pricey. In the group, many are users of the yungo(?) flashes, which seem to work well. Ralph, one of the moderators has posted several good test flash images.

[@gustavofranco5148]

I'll do that, thanks!

[@ostryjanusz]

I just bought this. I will receive it tomorrow. After watching your review I am pretty sure it is the best choice of a camera I have made for a while. I hope I am not mistaken.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. I hope your enjoy yours as much as I'm enjoying mine, still learning how to use it better and how to be a better photographer.

[@Arzt_DE]

That was a very helpful review. I can't wait for my a6000 to arrive tomorrow. Thanks a lot :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's so kind of you to comment, I trust you will enjoy your camera, as I continue to enjoy mine.

[@zorineb6182]

Thanks so much for a comprehensive and in depth learning process of this camera. It was very helpful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Zorine B I appreciate your kind words.

[@elvinlewis5827]

Thank you for the prompt response! Cost is certainly an object, but ironically, much less than I had planned on spending for a well equipped, dslr kit. I believe I've been pulled off the fence. Didn't see that coming.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Elvin Lewis Always glad to be able to help.

[@alwinian]

Thank you. One of the most thorough videos on the A6000 including the menu system. You also reminded me the beauty of Ottawa and Toronto (used to live in both). Very informative video. Thank you so much!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+alwinian thanks for the kind words and compliment. Creating videos, and visiting Ottawa is my pleasure.

[@Falcata]

amazing review and awesome tips! thanks Maarten! i'm a total beginner in photography and just picked an a6000 up for cyber monday.. this video will really help me going.. subbed!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

PhanTheMan Thank you for the very kind comment. I appreciate your subscription.

[@jwrightserio]

Watching this made up my mind to get this camera! Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Mr Fit Geek It's my pleasure. Thanks for letting me know, always nice to hear that my video has been useful.

[@luisfracm]

The best video of the Sony A6000 out there! I am going to buy this camera thanks to this video. Excellent job!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+luisfracm Thanks for the very kind words, I'm flattered and happy to hear that the video helped you make your decision.

[@SkateClipsAndTips]

I plan on getting this camera in a few months from now, it will be my first starter camera. I hear a lot of great reviews for this camera and that it is a great starter camera. I mainly use an S7 atm, it got me into photography. The manual mode I learned about the metering and adjusting the shutter speed with iso. I am gonna keep practicing till I get better.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for checking in - I think that's a great first camera, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

[@SkateClipsAndTips]

Maarten Heilbron My friend told me to just Buy the body and get a seperate lens. He gonna help me with cheaper lenses and deals

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Good plan.

[@SkateClipsAndTips]

Maarten Heilbron I can't wait to get this camera!

[@Tricksandbeats]

Thanks for the detailed video Maarten!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always my pleasure, thanks for your kind words.

[@francescosalamone115]

Hi, Maarten! I'm looking to buy the Sony a5100 which would be great for me being a novice to mirrorless cameras, but the a6000 is only $50 more to purchase. I have seen your reviews on both cameras. Should I just go for the a6000 for the small price difference, or would it be to much camera right now?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Francesco Salmon I would most definitely buy the A6000, which I did. Unless you're talking about size and weight, there's no thing as too much camera. I did the comparison (kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXrQn4meeN9gpK8) to underline the value you'll find in the A6000, which I believe is absolutely the best price/performance ratio available from any vendor.

[@DevonDelk]

Wow! I'll watch a few times to take all this in. Just bought the camera and appreciate this "class". Lots of experimenting lies ahead, for sure.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Devon Delk Thanks for the kind comments - always glad to hear that you've found something interesting in my videos.

[@neweffendi]

I'm watching this on 2017, and yeah, this is my fav among the other reviews. Well done. Thanks for the review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for watching and thanks for the kind words.

[@jasperbusch9928]

Outstanding video. Really like the way and effort you made to present so many features in detail. Great work!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your kind comment, I appreciate the feedback.

[@jasperbusch9928]

Btw, you and your review are partially responsible that I call a beautiful a6000 my own since yesterday.. ;)

[@FAMUCHOLLY]

Comprehensive and EXTREMELY well done!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

FAMUCHOLLY That's very kind, thank you.

[@Monaz24677]

Great preview - I've been torn between the RX10, the new RX100iii and this camera from Sony...but I think you have convinced me that the a6000 is the the most versatile...thanks for taking the time.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words - I haven't yet reviewed the RX100m3, but I think you've made a wise choice.

[@lindaellen2297]

I have been watching all the short version movie of the info about Sony A6000. I found his to be the most information about the camera and its features.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

LINDAELLEN MACDUFF That's very kind of you to say. Thanks for watching.

[@PeopleVoicesForObama]

Thanks for the review Maarten. By far your video is one of the best if not the best A6000 review out there. Keep up the good work! I am seriously consider this camera.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Tangomania Thanks for the kind words, always nice to hear from a viewer.

[@Andrew714oc]

Excellent review,awesome reviewer! Thank you. You have just gained me as a subscriber. I'm a new a6000 owner, I love the camera and I agree with everything you said about it. I don't own any Zeiss glass for it (too pricey for me), but the 50mm f/1.8 takes great quality pics along with the 16-50mm kit lens. Now all I need is a medium or long zoom lens, maybe you could give me advice on which lens to get next. I'm torn between the 55-210mm f4.5-6.3 OSS for $350 or the 18-105mm f4 OSS for $600. I like the low cost and the longer zoom of the 210, but the 18-105 offers a constant aperture which is faster/brighter and downside is it's almost double the price and the zoom doesn't go as far at only 105mm max. I know there is a 1.5x crop factor - do you think 105mm (approx 150mm 35m equiv) is enough to shoot a college basketball game from say middle to nose bleed section? I would also have little to no use for my kit lens since the 18-105mm will cover the length of the kit. Thanks again!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for the kind words. Although it's slightly heavy, I own/use the 18-200 (the kit lens for the VG20 camcorder). It's pricey, but quality is high and is suitable for video, get the LE version - sample footage here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3TLoq1jrsSferc Otherwise, I can recommend the Sony/Zeiss 16-70, an excellent walkabout (I sold the kit lens). The GooglePlus A6000 group (and of course flickr) are also good places to go - you'll find more images and comments on the lenses you mention. If you're not already reading dpreview, wirecutter, and dxomark for lens reviews, I can recommend them as good resources.

[@BelAir101]

And not only for the review but for your explicit well education.....

[@MalaikaToo]

Very good review, Maarten! So much information in 16 minutes. The best available on KZbin about the a6000 - no doubt. Congrats! :o) Subscripten activated.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

MalaikaToo Thank you very much for your very kind words. I appreciate your interest and support.

[@CalinhoRosa]

Hello Maarten! I'm sorry for my delay to answer you, I've been in Greece and then I could explore the features of my A6000. I can tell you that I had some good shots.Thank you so much to send me the link of your new video (blurry backgrounds in six easy steps). It's much appreciated. Cheers

[@MaartenHeilbron]

CalinhoRosa Thanks for the update, glad you found the video useful.

[@samiye3432]

Hey ... I have a question.. Which better for me to buy the Nikon d5300 or the Sony a6000 ?

[@esongsore]

Excellent and detailed review. What is your take on the a6000 vs the NEX 5T. Is it worth to pay the extra amount for the a6000? Is there anything I will be missing out on if I went with the a6000?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. In Sony's lineup, the only thing you'll be missing if you went with the a6000 is a full frame sensor (as on the A7 family). Comparing the 5T to the a6000 is harder - it depends on the price difference. Typically it's small enough to justify the improved functionality and sensor of the a6000.

[@Kev0n05]

Loved, loved, LOVED your review!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

kevin wyatt You are too kind! Thanks for the comment.

[@ArtsyMike]

Amazing review!!!!! And I'm sooo excited for the remote desktop app! Great for studio work!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words - I haven't really been able to make good use of it - so happy to hear.

[@adamhlj]

I'm a little bummed it doesn't have GPS! As always, thanks for your reviews. I'm tempting myself with a new camera (my only experience with taking pictures is with my various cell phones,) and while I know they serve different purposes, I like this one and the RX100 MIII. I already watched your review on the RX100, but I just wish it wasn't so expensive! So many toys, and too little money.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Adam McGrath Thanks for the kind words - you can always save a few dollars by going for last year's model. The original RX100 was also a great camera (yes the new model is better, but.) And the NEX6, which I have reviewed on video is a great choice with many best of 2013 recommendations.

[@REDIUS999]

amazing video with a soft not disturbing voice ! can you review the nikon p900?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Reda Bell thank you for the kind words, I will add it to the to-do list.

[@AntonioEvanWijaya]

Wow i really LOVE the way you explain.. very easy to understand.. Keep it up!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Antonio Evan Wijaya Thanks for the kind words, I appreciate your comment.

[@jmson23]

Great review! Thanks Maarten. I've been debating on the Sony RX100 M3 or this camera and I think this is the one to go with. Really like your reviewing style and in depth look at every aspect. :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

jmson23 That's very kind of you to say. I think you're making a good choice.

[@dbenyakar]

Great review. I wish Sony would include custom buttons C1 and C2 in the MR options. So that if I set MR option 1 to be used for manual focusing then to automatically assign C1 for example to be set to Focus Magnifier. Then when switching to MR option 2, the C1 would automatically set to drive mode etc. That would give much more flexibility. There are other things that I don't really understand how they work. For example in the Online Help it says that PDAF is canceled when aperture is closer than f13. I found that it is canceled when closer than f6.3. Like in the NEX-6. I fill this camera has great potential but Sony prematurely released it. They could have done a much better job via mature firmware.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Danny Ben-Yakar Thanks for your kind words and thoughtful comment. I agree, that's an excellent thought for MR - a feature I don't use often enough. I believe that the PDAF issue is very lens specific, and there are older e-mount lenses where it doesn't work at all. I keep hoping that a firmware upgrade will address these issues, but Sony's track record on these isn't good. Like all software development projects these days, it's released when it's good enough. My major aggravation is the SD card slot which faces the wrong way, making it hard to retrieve the card.

[@arashroshanineshat8457]

You are a great photographer and of course this review was the best.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Arash Rouhani Very kind of you to say, thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@Fertuu]

Hoi Maarten, goede uitleg en mooie foto's. Goed bezig ;)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

rikmenspoel Ik waardeer uw vriendelijke woorden. Veel bedankt.

[@emadkamel6916]

Like always great review Maarten Kudos!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your kind words, they are always appreciated.

[@ForViewingOnly]

Hi Maarten, this is a superb review, thank you. Lots of information condensed into 16 minutes. I had to rewind/replay some bits just so my brain could assimilate it, but the pacing kept it interesting so I wouldn't change a thing. This is one of the best camera review videos I've ever watched! I'm only a novice (currently own a Sony A58) and was originally intending to pickup an NEX-5T (better size for me), but the more expensive A6000 does seem to be streets ahead. One question: What are those horizontal lines on the building at 7:13 ? Looks like a printout on an inkjet printer with a blocked nozzle :-)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you so much for commenting and your kind words. Those lines are wires meant to discourage pigeons from flying/landing around Toronto's Nathan Philips (City Hall) square. Funny - they do look like a printing error.

[@khanos73]

In my opinion your video is one of the best video ever . I got answer of all my questions .Your video is so easy to understand coz you are talking slowly and you got too many pictures to show

[@Dmsstudios64]

I cant wait for mine to show up tomorrow and i get to play with it. biting nails and no sleep lol

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Dms Sutdios64 Hope you made it through the night. Remember if you need help sleeping, you can get a copy of the manual online - I find it a very effective sleep aid.

[@Dmsstudios64]

i survived and now just waiting for the postman and thinking of what portable lighting kit i can have on a budget to make outdoor portraits

[@jimmytokuzato]

I love the color of tulips, great camera. thanks.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+jimmy tokuzato I appreciate the kind words, thank for commenting.

[@WorldMelodies]

Many thanks for this fabulous review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+WorldMelodies That's very nice of you to say, thanks!

[@neveratime]

Hi Maarten, Do you know if any of of the Sony A6000 series of cameras have screen level, GPS and touch focus and snap? Kind regards.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Those are features on most of the recent models. GPS is through the Sony smartphone app.

[@russlees2589]

3:48 "I wanted to change the AEL button, one custom that isn't changeable" In my best pantomime voice .... " Oh YES it IS" Very first choice in the Custom Key Settings menu. Loads of options to choose from, keep scrolling down once selected.

[@ponciodupont5069]

This was one of the most explicit-meat-&-potatoes-matter-of-fact video about this camera. No Bull!! I'm seriously thinking to buy this camera, and your video will be my owner's manual. I have a little question for you: Some testers say that the standard zoom (16-50) that comes with the camera doesn't really show the image richness coming from the sensor, some recommend the Sony E-Mount 18-105mm f/4 OSS Power zoom lens, which is mostly intended for video. BUT they also say that it does a lot of pincushion when shooting verticals or horizontal lines. Have you tested that zoom on this camera? Thanks! Keep on sharing!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I have not tried the 18-105, check at dxomark. I'm very happy with the 16-70Z. Thanks for the kind words.

[@elvinlewis5827]

Very detailed, concise, and professional review. Briefly, I'm looking for a hobby camera to start my wife out on. Until now, I had made up my mind that it was the Nikon D5300. I'm firmly on the fence now. I'm trying to determine if these cameras really do have focusing issues with fast moving subjects, like dogs or sports, or has that been largely corrected? Also, what lens do you recommend for portraits, to get that blurred background effect?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Elvin Lewis Thanks for your kind comment. The focus with this (as I demonstrate in the review) is fast and (mostly) accurate. There are lots of focus tricks, like face detect and eye autofocus that can also be useful in the right circumstances. For portraits with blurry backgrounds try the SEL35F18, or if money is no object, the full frame SEL55F18Z, the nicest Sony lens I've ever used. Or any good portrait lens from another manufacturer - there's an adapter for just about every lens mount available for e-series. More on blurry backgrounds here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJjTeZeDrdtlqMk (using the 35F18)

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I could not find my video. Only three films and what I did as my practice shots was completely missing. So I reformatted the card and now the video appears under Private - M4Root not under stream where it was on my other Sony. Unfortuantely the Private folder was not there before - I cannot explain this. I hope it is working now as next week I am going to an exhibition where it will be needed!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

In my experience, they're always in the private folder - and it's always best to import them directly from the SD card (or from a mirror of all the SD card's files on a hard drive) using the import dialog in your NLE, which finds them and imports them (even in XAVC-S format) without issue. Importing the files as files can be problematic. Hope the shoot goes well.

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I have always done imported files so thank you for letting me know. I don't know how I did not find the files - I am not inexperienced and went through everything .... Anyway, not to worry, at least I have got it working now! Best wishes from Poland!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind wishes, always happy to help.

[@choley89]

very detailed video. im a beginner, and am thinking of purchasing this camera. what is the difference in the lens 16-50mm or 55-210mm? and which is better? im more interested in landscape and night photography, with a lot of travelling to be done.

[@wavenami]

Great review! So many choices from Sony between cropped sensor and full frame, it's difficult to choose. But I'm thinking about going to e-mount from a-mount (A77/99) and the lens selection of native e-mount is better than it was just a year ago. The A7ii is also very tempting, but at 3x the price, I may just wait until it comes down a bit and settle for the 6000 instead and get FF lenses.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Arie Vandenberg Thanks for the kind words - yes, Sony has given us a lot to think about with some difficult decisions. Good luck.

[@BelAir101]

Very comprehensive review..excellent...gratefull.

[@Mercsss111]

Best A6000 review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Mercsss111 I appreciate your kind words. Thanks for watching.

[@jasonsonism]

Really good review compared to other youtuber. Oh by the way, do you have any reccomendation for mirrorless camera that's less than $1000 with a comparable features and quality as a6000. Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Jason K That's very kind, thank you. I was not the only person impressed by the NEX6 (more or less the precursor to the A6000) and it's seeing some nice discounts these days. My review is at kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKHEqKV6hLagf5Y

[@jasonsonism]

what do you think about other brand such as fuji xe-2/xt1 and olympus?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Jason K I've reviewed the Fuji X-E2 (kzbin.info/www/bejne/qH7ViWRjnqZ4d5I). Although I reviewed Olympus cameras in the past, that was before I starting posting videos. They are both reputable manufacturers who make good products.

[@jasonsonism]

excellent review! Now i'm confused for which camera should i choose haha! any reccomendation for me? as i'm just starting into photography world, should i choose mirrorless over dslr? thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Jason K Thanks for watching my videos, and the kind words. I'm confused too - but I've decided for mirrorless - I found I left the bigger, heavier DSLR behind too often. There are so many considerations that are very personal that it's pretty much impossible for me to ever say "This is the right camera for you.", even to my friends. If there's a good camera store near to where you are, go spend an few hours holding a few cameras and chatting with a couple of staff members. Some will rent you a camera for a weekend or a week to try, many have good return, exchange and trade up policies. And be guided by your preferences and your wallet. Start inexpensively and work your way up as you decide how much time and energy you want to devote to photography.

[@BobLee333]

hi Maarten, i 'stumbled' on this video , and i was blown away by this product, i'm new into photography and i own as first camera a dslr the Nikon D3400 , but i am inclined to switch over to this system, what is your professional opinion , you had used them both so that would be a valuable insight for myself. I respect and appreciate your work in educating your viewers to into this magnificent world of photography. Kind Regards Maarten.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kid words, thank you. Of course, any camera that's not satisfying and that doesn't motivate you to take photos is not a good camera (features notwithstanding). However, I'm not sure what appeals to you about the A6000 that you don't have in the D3400, particularly for a novice. While the Sony is clearly more feature rich, the quality of the images (and that's lens dependent of course) should be fairly similar. I do have an extensive set of D3400 tutorials - kzbin.info/aero/PLW95Ufn1YnGI-sQsW4RLBf3Oltv10R55X - maybe that will help?

[@pavankona]

Kudos!! A6000 menu options best explained.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to read that my videos are appreciated.

[@boysherman]

Very nice review Maarten. How do you feel the camera handles now with the X-AVCS updates. I am looking to add a 'video' option to my A7. That way I can share lenses.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Royston Kane Thanks for the kind words. The addition of XAVC-S was a good improvement, but it hasn't really changed the handling of the camera. I appreciate the additional bandwidth, but am not really observing much difference visually.

[@rajatraj19]

Hello, I am from India. The way you explain each minute details is superb. Could You please help me out how you record the screen of a6000 while demonstrating its functionality. The name of the software ??

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's not software, it's an external recorder on the HDMI output. It's explained in my behind the scenes blog post ... although I could do a more detailed look at how I create my videos. heilbron.com/sony-a6000-hands-on-review/ Back then I was using the elgato, now I'm using an atomos shogun.

[@petecliffe1830]

excellent overview, some very helpful pointers - you persuaded me and i bought a used one in very good condition 😄

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to hear that my videos are helpful.

[@alipadajohn6939]

Excellent review of a6000.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Ali pada john That's very kind of you to say. Thanks.

[@mudanee9644]

greatest and most useful tutorial thank you very much

[@boobletownbobby9255]

Excellent review Maarten. I have been waiting months to get this camera. And after seeing the not so good reviews of the a5100, I think it's time. Thanks also for mentioning specifically what Zeiss lens you are using. I was wondering if the full frame Zeiss lenses are compatible and it seems all of them are. I will mostly be shooting nature landscapes, but don't want a extremely wide angle lens (like the 12mm) that would stretch the image. Which Zeiss lens would you recommend?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** Thanks for your kind comment. The Zeiss 12mm is a crop lens, I haven't seen any Zeiss full frame e-mount lenses (are they being announced at Photokina?). The Sony/Zeiss 16-70 is excellent at the wide end, and with Lightroom's lens adjustment, the minimal stretch at the edges is eliminated. I haven't used any other Zeiss lenses with the A6000.

[@boobletownbobby9255]

Unless I'm totally confused, the lens that you have is a Zeiss full frame e-mount lens. They also have a few others. blog.sony.com/press/sony-introduces-first-full-frame-e-mount-lenses/

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** Sony's naming has not helped this confusion. The full frame e-mount lenses mentioned in the release are designed to be used with the a7 series full frame cameras. Note also that some Sony lenses bear Zeiss branding, Zeiss also sells lenses independently. The lenses I used in this review (Sony Zeiss 16-70 or SLE1670Z and the Zeiss Touit 12mm) are not those. These are crop lenses designed for the NEX and other non-full frame mirrorless cameras. That said, the full frame e-mount lenses are compatible with all cameras that use the e-mount (NEX, A6000, A3000, etc.) However they will be cropped. Vice versa, the crop lenses can be used on the full frame body, with a significant vignette. There's a little more detail on this in my A7R review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmbCdoNogsRom7s Hope this helps.

[@jasonbannan4024]

Always great reviews. Your review of the a5100 prompted me to get one. Now I'd like to upgrade. a6000, a6300? The a6500 seems above my skill range. Your opinion is always appreciated.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your kind words. What are your reasons to upgrade? You won't find much more int eh A6000, and the real benefit of the A6300 might be 4K video.

[@whitetail600]

Hi Maarten! Thanks for the video! I recently bought an a6000 and love it! What is your recommended settings for fps rate and quality for video. I'm wanting best capture quality for covering events and then burning to DVD. Thanks! Michael

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** My pleasure - thanks for the kind words. For video/DVD output, I'd record AVCHD at 60i 24M, (which equates to 30p) with a 1/60th shutter. DVD is much lower resolution than the a6000. I would also recommend that you use custom white balance, and manual exposure - possibly with auto ISO (but preferably not). For a performance, the spotlights on performers generally end up too bright, so adjust the ISO/aperture to keep the brightest object in the frame (the faces) at about 70/75% (use the zebra set at that level to judge) - the typical level for "white" skin, this will avoid them being blown out. If the distance is fairly similar for all performers, use manual focus, otherwise continuous with face detect will likely be best. Hope this helps.

[@whitetail600]

***** Thanks very much for your advice Maarten! I'll set it up accordingly and shoot some practice footage. Take care! Michael

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** Glad to be able to help.

[@OmarG123]

I love this channel too much

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's kind of you to say - but if it's too much, I believe there is a self-help group that meets on Tuesdays.

[@genafumm1857]

Hi I have nikon lensses, how can i use them on the a6000? Wich adapter is the best Does it affect the fast auto focus or the IFOCUS? Thanks...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

גנאדי פום I have no experience with this - I believe most people use metabones, and I'm pretty sure it does affect the auto-focus, but I think it depends on the lens and the adapter.

[@michaelbruchas6663]

Good review - I have had my a6000 only 3 days and my prime is the pancake 16mm...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Michael Bruchas Thanks for the kind words. How are you liking that lens?

[@eddyg1794]

Great review. You mentioned the top video format was not available for this camera. Firmware revision 2.0 includes it.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Eddy G Yes! We can now shoot XAVC-S at 50Mbits.

[@TheJonahbaraily]

Awesome Maarten...Great job ...this really helpful for me ...you are the BEST.....Thanks a LOTSSSSSS...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Jonah Baraily I appreciate your kind words, thanks for commenting.

[@TheJonahbaraily]

I have sony a6000 with kit lens and 4.5-6.3/55-210 but I'm looking for good lens for professional type, even I'm not good photographer. Looking for blur background shot. Thanks 

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Jonah Baraily You should be able to get a nice bokeh with that lens, keep the subject and the background far apart, zoom to about 150, back off to get the subject framed properly, open the iris as far as it will go - or watch this video for more detail. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJjTeZeDrdtlqMk On the other hand, if you feel that a new lens is required, the 35mm F1.8 crop or the FE 55mm are ideally suited to that kind of portrait. Or do you have a good portrait lens from an older camera and you just need an adapter?

[@TheJonahbaraily]

+Maarten Heilbron thank you so much it help a lots.

[@oscarperalta2143]

***** At around 12:38, how do you get the meeting to for the animated look. I can't seem to find it. Is it an app I must purchase?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Paul Wynn Use P, A, S or M mode, on page 4 of the camera menu, use Picture Effect. Those effects are called HDR Painting, Watercolour and Illustration. There is a picture effect app with slightly more functionality, it's a free download.

[@angelocincotta2988]

G'day Maarten, Great review of the a6000 so thank you for that very much. I have just upgraded to the a6000 from my great a77. Yes that's right, upgraded. I do have a question though and hoping you have the answer. Question is, is it at all possible to connect a laptop to the a6000 so that the laptop screen can be the viewfinder? I will be using the a6000 for astrophotography using the rokinon 24mm f/1.4 lens and being a manual lens, it will be much easier to setup focus on the 15 inch screen on my laptop to focus on stars. Sounds too good to be true but one can hope its possible. Ange

[@luckyblueduck]

Excellent in-depth review! Question - have you tried the time-lapse app using electronic shutter only? what is the minimum and maximum shutter speeds it will go, and also, how bad are the artifacts generated by it, if any? Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

luckyblueduck Thank you for the kind words - I keep meaning to do a more in-depth review of time lapse (and the other apps) but I don't seem to find the right occasion. It is on my to-do list. Sorry.

[@nitinsharma14]

Awesome review sir. One ques Canon Eos 700d or this one? Purpose is making youtube videos in indoor lightning. Which has better video quality in artificial lightning / minimum indoor lightning?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I would choose the A60000, but the larger question is the lens - you'll want a fast lens to shoot dark scenes.

[@RestoreWatches]

really great review

[@MaartenHeilbron]

An Di That's very kind of you to say, thanks!

[@Danny_Joiner]

Great video and review!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Danny Joiner Thanks for the kind words, I appreciate your comment.

[@meh-hair-Vaughn]

Excellent review! Very well presented and well detailed. Keep it up! :-)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your support.

[@UNDERST0RY]

I was very interested in this camera, but it seems that video was more an afterthought. I am thinking that something like the SL1 would be better for a more video focused camera.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Cliff Seruntine I would describe it as an afterthought, as it is a capable video camera, it's more like a hobby. If you wish to be serious about video, I would not rate the SL1 any higher. A serious video-capable camera has: mic in and headphone out ports, live HDMI out, zebra (with 70% setting) and peaking, full manual control, an ND filter and lenses that can be used for manual zoom as well as direct focus control. It should record 24 and 30p at true HD (1920x1080 - not the 1440 stretch).

[@kapaderos4983]

+Maarten Heilbron Would you recommend the Sony® HDR-CX405 Camcorder? I'm thinking about getting one but need the experts advice. Thanks beforehand.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+yoqie I haven't had the opportunity to use one, but it seems to be missing many of the features I find essential.

[@ArtChic_]

this was really helpful. those flower shots are superb. I had a canon 60D and shot some tulip shots in Ottawa last May on auto...they turned out really well. Unfortunately my camera had an issue and when I brought it back the fourth time, they would not give me the 70d due to the price difference. So I've been trying to work within the value of my old 60D. This seems like a sensible alternative, but right now I am struggling with a t5i and 18-135 STM kit lens that took horrible auto pics in landscape settings....also very heavy to carry a full SLR...I am an artist and need quick high quality reference shots and shots of my work. Seems this is a lot of camera for the money. Thanks again!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

jennifer brouse Thanks for the kind words and your comments. It is a lot of camera for the money. Sorry to hear about the 60D. Canon does have some lighter alternatives like the SL1 kzbin.info/www/bejne/epOwqYpod9eXgac I'd recommend an upgrade from the kit lens in any case.

[@ArtChic_]

Hi Maarten, thanks for your reply. Your video was very well made and informative, but your pictures were fantastic! As a painter and someone with an eye for composition and light and colour, I need a good camera but I'm not a techno saavy gal...I like having the ability to tweak things and all the features, but the auto functions need to be high quality. On the 60d I shot with the flash off auto mode frequently and produced excellent shots with very crisp detail. It seems the t5i is lackluster in its autofocus capability. The included lens was the 18-135 STM. What do you know about this Rebel camera? Do you think I would be happier with the a6000? One thing I notice is the Sony shots are almost too sharp sometimes! Almost "unreal" looking. It's hard because my funds are limited. I do realize that whether I stick with a Canon (and upgrade to 70d or keep the t5i) or get an a6000 that I will need to invest in one or two nice prime lenses and a good zoom. I really appreciate your work and your response! Cheers, Jennifer

[@ArtChic_]

Hi Maarten, I just received my sony a6000 via Canada Post, and further adding to my trepidations regarding cameras the post man dropped the box as he handed it to me!!! I'm sure these boxes get thrown around a fair bit, and I'm not fond of mail ordering expensive equipment, but it was a sale price out of stock in store. The package was the standard kit lens with the 55-210 zoom for $900 Canadian. I just had a minor fit thinking it wasn't charging because I could not locate the teeny weeny light inside the charging door! I hope it is reasonably tough as it was in a box in another box and fell onto carpet...there is an extended warranty that I purchased as well. These electronics!!! They allure but cause such grief sometimes for those of us on meager budgets!! I will let you know how the pictures come out...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

jennifer brouse Hopefully the camera wasn't damaged ... but best to let the retailer know what happened sooner rather than later. Looking forward to seeing the pictures.

[@ArtChic_]

Thanks Maarten...the camera charged up and I've taken a few auto shots indoors and outdoors. It appears to be in fine working condition in spite of a rough start... First thoughts...I find the photos "white" and "cold" in terms of innate temperature. There was no flash fired. As to the extensive menus, as others have observed there is no manual really, but an online PDF. I will watch your video again for pointers. I do love the size and weight of the camera- it feels great ergonomically...But as I compare photos from my original 60D to the Nikon 3200, Canon t5i and Sony a6000, I have to say that none of the latter three can compare to the former. I am very much leaning towards purchasing a 70D. I know most serious photographers manipulate their files using RAW and post production, but while I want the ability to do that in a camera, it is important that it perform its "reads" well. I am strong in composition, but technically challenged, but I need the quality of image that I got with the 60D. Thanks again for your great videos and for your replies! :)

[@giorgimica]

Great review. Could you please let me know if the Canon lenses loose quality when mounted on a Sony a6000? If not, is there an adaptor you could advise me?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Jorge Ferreira Thanks for the kind words - unfortunately I haven't tried either an adapter or third party lenses. I think if you check for the combination of the camera and the lens on flickr you'll likely find many samples so that you can judge. You camera dealer is probably the best place for a recommendation - but checking online reviews at some of the dealer sites might also be worthwhile.

[@Bicyclechris]

Jorge Ferreira Canon lenses work great in terms of overall picture quality on Sony mirrorless bodies like the a6000. In fact, I use my Canon L lenses without a hitch when paired with a metabones adapter. The one glaring downside is autofocus. The autofocus is terrible to the point where Manual Focus is your only solution. At this point the best selling points of the a6000 body is negated, it's lightning-fast AF system. I use this camera as my "B" camera simply because I have all Canon glass, and my 5D mk III simply takes better shots with less noise.