Sony a7R III Review: 2017 "Medium Format" Camera (!) of the Year

Yes, it uses the same sensor as its predecessor, but the a7R III now has a much fuller lens line up than the a7R II did when it was announced two years ago, and with a number of operational improvements, that changes things. It changes them so much, in fact, that it no longer makes sense to use the traditional dividing line between digital full frame and digital medium format - at least in and around the 50 megapixel mark.
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Gear covered in this review:
Sony a7r Mk III: bhpho.to/2gCW86G geni.us/SONYa7r3
Sony a7r Mk II: bhpho.to/2yHr7JH geni.us/Sonya7r2
Sony a6300: bhpho.to/2ydmWSK geni.us/SONYa6300
Sony a6500: bhpho.to/2AUMLYl geni.us/AS9VUZ
Sony RX10 Mk IV: bhpho.to/2h3ePUF geni.us/RX10IV
Sony RX100 Mk V: bhpho.to/2AUOqgx amzn.to/2z0nonu
Sony Distagon 35mm f/1.4: bhpho.to/2ATBFTs geni.us/Distago...
Sony 12-24mm f/4: bhpho.to/2ATcekO geni.us/Sony12to24
Sony 24-105mm f/4: bhpho.to/2yIz9lw geni.us/Sony24t...
Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 G-Master: bhpho.to/2hMM2ER geni.us/Sony16to35
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 G-Master: bhpho.to/2ATxV4g geni.us/Sony24to70
Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 G-Master: bhpho.to/2hLAZf3 geni.us/Sony70t...
Sony 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 G-Master: bhpho.to/2whHn3E geni.us/SONY100...
Sony 85mm f/1.4 G-Master: bhpho.to/2AWcHCR geni.us/Sony8514GM
Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro: bhpho.to/2hK9vpU geni.us/Sony9028GM
Sony/Zeiss Planar 50mm f/1.4: bhpho.to/2hMJx5k geni.us/SonyPla...
Sony/Zeiss Sonnar 55mm f/1.8: bhpho.to/2ATB1VW geni.us/ZeissSo...
Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8: bhpho.to/2ATuPgw geni.us/Batis18
Zeiss Batis 25mm f/2.0: bhpho.to/2hJwzVS geni.us/Batis25
Zeiss Batis 135mm f/2.8: bhpho.to/2AWHyzb geni.us/Batis135
Glyph 2T Atom RAID SSD: bhpho.to/2hSYIK9
geni.us/Glyph2T...
smallHD Focus: bhpho.to/2hORrer
geni.us/smallHD...
Nikon D850: bhpho.to/2AUhuoo geni.us/D850
Hasselblad X1D w/43mm f/3.8 : bhpho.to/2AV3nzk geni.us/HassyX1D
Hasselblad H6D-50c: bhpho.to/2hLOzPA geni.us/HassyH6D50
Fuji GFX 50s: bhpho.to/2zbGPt6 geni.us/GFX50s
Pentax 645Z: bhpho.to/2AUe5WN geni.us/645Z
Fuji XT-2: bhpho.to/2yd9I8D geni.us/Fujixt2
Gear used to record this review:
Panasonic GH5: bhpho.to/2wi2J0Q geni.us/OCcig
Sigma 30mm f/1.4: bhpho.to/2whK3hR geni.us/cSxX
RØDElink Filmmaker Kit: bhpho.to/2hNodwr
Aputure Light Dome: geni.us/ijPl
CAME TV Boltzen 100W Fanless Bi-Color bhpho.to/2huLL9h
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Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel

[@caymandave99]

Thank you very much for your real world review. I moved from the A7RII to the A7RIII recently. I migrated fromthe Canon 1D cameras to the Sony A7RI. I tell you all this for perspective. The Sony world is a different beast from the world of EVERYONE else. There were things I had to put up with in it’s recent growth but I have always found wonderful images and a company willing to advance it’s products as asked for (mostly). I find some maddening things like why not two UHS-II slots instead of one, frustrating to understand. Never-the-less, if the camera manufacturers are hell-bent on leading us through yearly races to perfection, it seems that for the everyman photographer, Sony is giving us a lot. I stuck with Canon for two decades and unless Sony quits marching ahead, I’m staying with them for exactly the reasons that your review points out.

[@tony_r_pierce]

Hi Jeff Goldblum, thanks for posting ;). Interesting commentary.

[@actionimagesphotography]

Just like the movies behind you, your comments have many twists and turns, very enjoyable.

[@pm69photography46]

Thank you for a very thought provoking video, why you haven't 100k + subscribers is beyond me, looking forward to your next video.

[@3BMEP]

PM UK69 Give me some time! :)

[@DiamondWoodStudios]

108k!!

[@davidaltizer]

The way you present in your videos is so unique and you have such authority and power in your presentation. Been watching your stuff for a while now and really love your perspective. Cheers.

[@DigitalGrease]

I have been weighing these same questions while I had my hands on the A7RIII for several days, and have come to very much the same conclusion, once Capture One was added to the mix. I then found your wonderful video. Elegantly produced with an artistic flair. Eloquently and expertly delivered in the most balanced and non-combative manner that I have seen in a very, very long time. Thank you for bringing a beacon of (dare I use the word?) enlightenment into the world of gear lust and the quest for perfection. Beautifully done, sir!

[@3BMEP]

You just made our day. 🙏🏻 Thank YOU!

[@andrewfphoto]

Another great vid, Hugh - tell me...you surely are a relative of Jeff Goldblum...;) not only in looks, but also in sound!

[@yitzchallevi8208]

I don't think the label of "medium format" or "full frame" is really that helpful regarding the question of the relative value and strength of a camera system... The camera is a tool to help you express your vision, so it will only be as good as your creative insight and vision is anyway... Some of my best shots have come from a Ricoh GR recently, despite the fact that I shoot Sony A7rii and Nikon D810 as well.

[@metals2546]

Excellent presentation. I am tempted to finally migrate over to Sony

[@37Dion]

Well done as always my friend. Ohh but your truly asking for it this time. The snobs are gonna get carpal tunnel syndrome over this one. Ha

[@3BMEP]

Dion Gross Excellent! :)

[@Zakalwe-01]

I do get the title, entirely, and I’ve heard both the a7Riii and the D850 both described as secret medium format cameras because of the pixel count and DR. I’ve been test-shooting the D850 and the Fuji GFX 50s back to back recently, and I’ve used Alpha cameras since their release. The Nikon and Sony RAW files I’ve edited from both their new efforts are truly superb, but the images from the GFX absolutely have a difference. To my eyes, the difference is like APS-C vs full frame. I can only test Sony RAW files taken by reviewers, but the D850 mounted with a Sigma 50mm f1.4 Art was totally eclipsed by the GFX using the GF 63mm. I didn’t expect that result. Loved the review by the way!

[@3BMEP]

Iain B Great data points - thank you!

[@dylanrander3862]

Enjoyed the full half hour. Thanks. Like your presentation style a lot.

[@mahym6874]

Your speech and acting reminds me of Jeff Goldblum :)

[@greatpix]

IF you ever get the chance to shoot on film with a Bronica GS-1 you will be blown away, especially with slide film. Best medium format camera I ever shot with, and I managed or worked in camera sales for nearly 27 years so got to shoot with everything under the sun.

[@3BMEP]

Robert Jensen I bought a GS-1 and am planning on doing just that!

[@greatpix]

Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions I remember someone doing a lengthy article comparing some of Bronica’s 6x6 lenses against Hasselblad’s and the conclusion was that the Bronicas performed better than the Hasselblad wide open but the Hassys were better stopped down. I wish it could remember who wrote it. For some reason Ctein comes to mind but I’m less than 50% sure. Anyway, the bigger GS-1 took amazing chromes, practically 3D looking at times. I took a photo on slide film of the Firebird sculpture hanging outside the Orange County Performing Arts Center with the standard lens on the GS-1 and never ceased to amaze me with its 3D feel, sharpness, contras and color.

[@greatpix]

There have been some other memorable cameras/lenses I shot with that I remember fondly, the Cambodian 4x5 w the better Rodenstock lenses (mostly) and loved the results I got. Also the Mamiya/Polaroid 600 camera for Polaroids and with the switching of backs, up to 6x7cm film (or was it 6x9cm?). I always wished I could get my hands on the modified Linhof 4x5 my photo instructor, Arthur Taussig (aka guitarist Harry Taussig) shot with for decades.

[@brightrockmedia]

I appreciate this title and the commentary. I think you're making the best point when you talk about capability and what is really required to do the job of a professional. In the last couple of years I've made the shift myself into using a cropped sensor (M43) for event coverage, and many of the editorial photographic requirements, and reserving my full frame (Sony a7Rii) for portraits, groups, and high res/high dynamic range landscapes etc. Today, a cropped sensor is often the better tool for your application, and that logic applies up the food chain as well. I did explicitly think of this shift in terms of using my FF as a kind of Medium format option with a prime lenses to cover the kinds of scenarios I'm indending to use the system for. Which brings me to a final thought. You did such a good job of highlighting the truly paradigm shifting experience of using IBIS in your GX85 review a year ago, but didn't mention that here as far as I noticed. That truth is just as applicable to the Sony IBIS, even if it's not as impressive in performance as the GX85 and other M43 IBIS options. The ability to shoot that high resolution, on that big sensor, and know that the camera is helping me avoid hand-shake blur in every shot means that I have more options and less things to worry about as I make photos, and what's more important, it means I bring home more keepers every time.

[@3BMEP]

Brightrock LLC Well said!

[@brightrockmedia]

I call this conversation "Camera Sanity" and I've seen in correlated to the electric stereo revolution of the late 70's and early 80's. The idea is that for some number of years Audiophiles would scour spec sheets to make sure that the speakers would deliver the full tonal range and have the responsiveness to deliver good audio, then at some point, it all got so good that consumers stopped needing to pay attention to specs. They couldn't detect the differences in most applications, especially once you factor in price/product brackets. Within a given bracket there just weren't significant differences for any but the most distinguishing customers. To me imaging is reaching a similar level of competence. It will matter more and for longer to producers than anyone else, but we should recognize that when the average consumer of our images can't tell the difference between a phone-camera photo and a medium format photo (depending on the photo/scene, of course), we should be looking for non-equipment ways to make images that stand out. Which all in, is a very good thing. What is in front of and behind the camera always make a bigger difference than the camera itself (but it matters too). Heh, I feel a little brown-stony here... "Your mileage may vary."

[@3BMEP]

Brightrock LLC you get Brownstoney points!

[@Luciano1maia]

does this guy know what he's talking about and does he know how to talk about what he knows? yes twice. very compeling arguments and way to present them. some talent !

[@N9524Q]

There is no perfect camera! Your video convinced me to stop thinking about buying this. Thank You! Of course there are sum brilliant features but some of the annoyances I see is not worth the investment. I have a GH 5 and a Sony a7 ll. Right tool for the job! Most of the time I chose the GH5 because the list of annoyances on that camera is the continuous autofocus system and I can live with it because it does everything else so well

[@3BMEP]

Sonny Eymann I understand completely. :)

[@10411702]

Thank you. Two words that are simple to say but not said enough.

[@3BMEP]

🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@dr.sommer5069]

Great story telling as always Hugh🤘. Great camera with two big downsides. No built in timelapse movie mode and no pixel shift software that combines the photos in camera.

[@ThePhotofit]

This the most balanced and therefore compelling reason to upgrade or switch systems entirely that I have watched. Thanks for making the effort in creating this video and for sharing it. Cheers.

[@3BMEP]

David Collopy Thank YOU!

[@stevelink21]

A very interesting and detailed video of the Sony ecosystem....That said, I admit to having zero experience with Sony, currently being a Fujifilm X-System landscape and product photographer, with a 35+year background in Nikon, Pentax, and Toyo Omega View camera systems. As an aside, while I have always admired Zeiss optics, I find that the Fujinon XF90mm f/2.8 is perhaps the sharpest lens I've ever had the pleasure of using. With the state of modern optics though, I do realize the differences may be just splitting hairs. Your points about the Sony ecosystem are well-taken, though the only "issue" I might have with the video, is the display and thus implied "legitimacy" of DxOMark data! If you could please justify that, I'd be eternally grateful, as I've read more than one article/review that says basically that DxOMark uses flawed algorithms, and further, doesn't even include the Fujifilm X-System, ostensibly because of the X-Trans sensor's properties. That reason alone, makes me skeptical of their "ratings". Thank you sir, and Happy Holidays! Regards, Steve

[@3BMEP]

Steve Solomon Hey, Steve. If you root around long enough through my videos you’ll find that I’ve acknowledged elsewhere DxOMark’s issues - and you’ll also see I LOVE the XT-2 and Fuji lenses. I wish and hope they do include Fuji at some point, but my eyes already tell me what I need to know - the Fuji system is lovely. I use DxOMark from time to time, however, because I have learned by correlating my experience with their ratings that they are approximately right to my eye. Thanks for weighing in!

[@daveleeparryontv]

hugh loved the video , i don't normally watch long video's , but found your video very very interesting and as a Sony guy agree on almost everything , thanks for the great review on this camera , i will o course be buying this camera this year ...

[@3BMEP]

daveleeparryontv Enjoy!!

[@movisuals4855]

Coolest guy on KZbin?...Subscribed.

[@thadpeters]

Crap. I am still impressed with your voice and perfect script reading. How can I contact you to do some intro vids for us?

[@3BMEP]

Thad Peters Thanks! Go over to www.3bmep.com and use the contact form.

[@guilhermerocha1555]

I thought the same thing! Your rhetoric is at the Obama level!

[@danielrowson3379]

I love your delivery, could listen to you all day.

[@3BMEP]

Daniel Rowson Thanks. I wish I had the time to do this all day!

[@davidbcg286]

I'd be curious to know your opinion of the 28-75mm f2.8 Tamron lens. I know you tend to use higher range lenses, but still curious if you'd get seduced by its good sides.

A very interesting perspective on the medium format comparison Hugh, not being as versed in medium format usage as you, I'll interpret your opinion as credible . Personally I think of this camera as a full frame powerhouse that is usable and capable of performing almost any still photographic or video task at the highest level. As you stated the current Sony/Zeiss lens collection is astonishingly good although a bit pricey. The choice of music is telling, and perhaps implies Sony is taking a sledgehammer to the competition. The A7RIII, a sledgehammer.

[@3BMEP]

Carl Ryan I hadn’t thought of it that way, but nice!

[@ccbphoto]

Hey Hugh.... It was nice to revisit this video. I believe Sony/Zeiss have come out with at least two new great lenses to fit the A7 series.

[@3BMEP]

Which do you like best, Craig? I'm partial to the 24/1.4, as we discussed. :)

[@ccbphoto]

@@3BMEP I've yet to try the 24/f1.4 and the Zeiss 40mm/f.2... I can't wait! My one disappointment of the Sony line is the 24-105 /f4. I really wish it were f/2.8. I hear their 24-70 f/2.8 is very heavy and too expensive. However my move away from zooms plays a big part in my complaints. Oh! I also love the 35mm f/2.8..but wish it were f/1.8. Still, it's a great street lens.

[@krysamon]

A perfect and deep explanation, thank you.

[@MarcTaraz]

I could listen to this voice all day...

[@DECKARD263354BR]

Thanks for a gread video !! Do you have any experience with the canon 5dsr ? If so how would it compare to the A7RIII in terms of overall image quality and high iso performance? (The focus is out of a 1dx but the A7RIII may be better) interested to hear your thoughts, thankyou.

[@3BMEP]

Sorry I can't be of help - I stopped working with Canons after I sold my 5D2 and have only just re-established my contacts there.

[@DarkAioL1666]

The shot at 3:28 is trully amazing :)

[@ianbrown704]

Very thought provoking and well presented

[@3BMEP]

Ian Brown Thanks!

[@scb2scb2]

Watching this video again while waiting for the delivery truck with my a7r iii :)

[@3BMEP]

Daniel Ockeloen excited for you!

[@scb2scb2]

It feels so nice but you already knew that.. got it in a few hours ago.. kind of like sony releasing first in europe before the states like with the a6500... So whole weekend to find small things others missed. I like it now can autofocus in magnify mode like the a6500 :)

[@3BMEP]

I did. Let us know what you learn now that you've got it in hand for the foreseeable future. :)

[@scb2scb2]

Why these sony manuals are so easy to read :), i think i already found a bug... but boy this thing is sharp with the 90mm ...

[@hmoobs1]

Always like the way you convey your point of view

[@benjowman]

Superb video. 10/10

[@shejin679]

Sony a9 says 30% increase in Eye AF performance over A7R2. Whereas Sony A7R3 says Double the Performance over A7R2. Does that mean A7R3 is better than A9 in terms of Eye AF Performance ?

[@nathansheppard2179]

No BS approach. I like it!

[@3BMEP]

Nathan Sheppard I try. :)

[@dphotographer5383]

I am now using a r3 and its pretty dam good so far. Apart from some focus racking into hi key light using the native lens.

[@ryanheldoorn]

Awesome video as always Hugh! I'm looking forward to adding this to my a7sii

[@3BMEP]

Ryan Heldoorn Nice, Ryan!

[@JPS4inLA]

Can you do a more in depth compare contrast video on A7riii vs A7iii Would like to hear your thoughts

[@3BMEP]

Did you see my a7 III vids?

[@guilhermerocha1555]

Apart from sensor capabilities, that you said are pretty close ( a opinion I agree with ), how do you think the A7R III compares to the D850? I'm sorry if you've been asked that a lot lately.

[@3BMEP]

Guilherme Rocha The D850 is the most interesting DSLR of the year to me personally - but it’s still a DSLR. For me, this means a technology that does not work nearly as well for the hybrid shooter I am, but it IS the first Nikon since the Photomic I want to get my hands on (haven’t been able to make that happen yet).

[@guilhermerocha1555]

Thank you very much! I think I'll wait a little bit to see other people's experience with those two cameras. I'm not looking for a hybrid shooter, but I do want to know which one of them does better on auto focusing and low light.

[@orionthedefender985]

I don't consider full frame to be medium format. Sony has already produced a medium format sensor and there are already rumors of a medium format camera, and plan to release a mirrorless camera in medium format. I think things are about to get interesting in the next few years.

[@3BMEP]

David Robb Fair enough: reasonable people can disagree.. If you haven’t already done so, may I suggest you check out my 3 part series on the Hasselblad X1D.

[@ekchuahstudios9066]

Outstanding information. I guess it's time for me to upgrade from my Kodak 120 box camera to the Sony 7RIII.

[@ricksatterwhite5790]

I own a Nikon D850 with the fastest glass available. I also own a Pentax 645D with some of their best available glass. In short the medium format pics have a look with not only the colors but the focus falloff gives the images a 3D look that 35mm will never be able to produce.

[@3BMEP]

Rick Satterwhite I understand.

[@SamCarleton]

Quick comment, the Sony a7R III actually does have 4:2:2 (8-bit) from 1080/60p or 24p via the HDMI output. Of course this requires an external recorder, but the camera can go above 4:2:0!

[@3BMEP]

Sam Carleton Good catch, thank you!

[@SamCarleton]

My pleasure. That is one of thing things I think is cool about what Sony is doing with this line of cameras: keeping it small, but still offering externally some big features. Another such example are the Sony FE PZ 28-135mm and E PZ 18-110mm f/4 G OSS Lens. From all I have seen they considering feature and cost, they really deliver a lot!

[@3BMEP]

Sam Carleton Agreed. I really like both as you may have seen from earlier reviews.

[@longrider9551]

A sermon in the church of Hugh ; )

[@Michaelb1975]

Great video Hugh, well done 👍🏻

[@3BMEP]

Michael Bradley Thanks, Michael.

[@jantestowy123]

Almost whole video, if not whole, shot at once....wow :)

[@davide36923]

Wow. High praise indeed.

[@davision_tech]

The Volume you talk and the volume you choose for the music doesn't even fit closely...

[@davehenderson9105]

I really enjoyed this entire film and it has given me a lot to think about. Im considering a switch from Nikon to mirrorless

[@3BMEP]

+Dave Henderson I switched from Canon 3 years ago and haven’t looked back.

[@Deathbynature89]

Get the Kipon Medium format to E-mount focal reducer, you can then literally compare glass.

[@MichaelMa]

When you recognize the lot of photography KZbinrs on set by name, you may have GAS.

[@colesmith156]

really helpful review. thanks so much!

[@3BMEP]

Cole Smith Glad you liked it!

[@zhorik1981]

Dude... This video rocked.

[@wngimageanddesign9546]

Nice work on the video from Sedona! And very good analysis.

[@3BMEP]

wNG iMAGE aND dESIGN Thanks - it was fun to do.

[@niconic6660]

You are so right @ lenses .... hope sometime Sigma will launch a new ArtLine for (F)E-Mount :)

[@niconic6660]

Having a Sony a6000 and a Sony a7m2 i need a new camera for sports (not pro) because my a6000 buffer is too small, the camera is too small and i don´t shoot @ rain because the a6000 is not so wheaterproog. But the A9 is very expensive....

[@DavidRoseberry]

Great insights, Hugh. Thanks.

[@3BMEP]

David Roseberry Thabk YOU!

[@sylvainpaquette6132]

I really enjoy your videos, the skin colour was better this time hehe. I have a question for you if you have time to answer it and guide me. When the sony A7 was released I went to the store, tried it and didn't like it but told myself I would get used to it. I tried to use it but I would leave it at home and do pretty much everything on my m43 cameras and not have to deal with the bad ergo and poorly implemented menus/buttons. Sold the thing at a loss and was happy to see it go. Two weeks ago I got to try the A7R III at the photo show and hoped I would not feel the same as the A7 but unfortunately I didn't find much improvement and i'm in the same position where I didn't enjoy trying it at the show, pretty sure I will hate it again. The menu system and touchscreen is poorly implemented again. I would have a use for a ff body with a 24-70 f2.8 and a wide angle prime. Mostly for larger prints of mostly landscape, building and street photo and I'm not sure what to do. I want IBIS and want to use my older film manual lenses if possible and there are no real alternative. The camera I enjoyed the most at the show is the aging pentax K1 and since I don't do video I may be tempted to get one. It does everything well and seems to be made for a photograph (illuminated buttons, lots of customization, light in the memory slot and lens mount, proper ergo, proper rear tilting screen and real weather sealing) It's half the price and the super sharp 24-70 f2.8 is really cheap too. I can get the silver edition, the 24-70 lens for around the price of the A7R III and have some spare change for couple of pentax primes. Any experience with the k1 ? I only do stills, I have other equipment for sports and telephoto. I don't use FF except when I really need larger prints and it's very dark. It's not about the money but having fun using the camera and lens and I feel I would be repeating the same mistake I did going FF with sony if I was to get the AR7III. I still have canon lenses and was waiting for a mirror less IBIS FF canon but I think I will be waiting a long time.

[@3BMEP]

Sylvain Paquette No experience with the K1 - but you make me want to try it. I think you already know the ‘III isn’t for you -I understand. What about getting the K1 and glass used and saving even more?

[@sylvainpaquette6132]

I can't find a used one, it's a very niche market apparently. Considering I learned on a k1000 it would be a return to origin :)

[@ericknorpp8238]

Nice video, Was the first part with out IBIS on, looks really shaky in some parts, or was that artistic priority? Always love seeing your videos. The smallHD focus is Amazing by the way. You'll love it for sure! It is Mamiya by the way, Not Mamaya I am personally waiting to see what they do with the A7sIII before I jump on the A7rIII. Really wish they would have given the option of a m-raw and/or s-raw. Not many reasons to shoot 42 mp all the time in my line of work which is mainly billboards and social media websites and catalogues these days where more than 24 is not needed anymore. I love my 5Ds for that. I can shoot 50mp when I want or shoot 32 mp or even 18 when i need to for faster shoots. I have also used CaptureOne for over 15 years now since I owned the first PhaseOne backs. There is no other tethered or Raw program that even comes close IMHPO. If the A7sIII is not worth it, I will keep Canon for now and most likely get the C200.

[@JROC822]

I have sold all my equipment in Pentax to switch to one of the big three. I have mostly been looking between the nikon d850, d810 and sony A7Riii. I doubt I can go wrong on any of these and really the biggest drawback I hear from the Sony is the lens selection and prices. You video makes me wonder if that is true? And what are your thoughts long-term of the D850 vs Sony A7Riii? I am mostly landscape and astro-photo with some video and portrait mixed in. Anyways any thoughts?

[@3BMEP]

Jared Johnson I think you’re right: both are incredibly capable machines. I suspect ergonomics will be the deciding factor for you.

[@bernardosilva7306]

For such a big investment, I would rent both and test them on the field. Both are capable, so, it will depend more on which system you will be more comfortable with, I think...

[@3BMEP]

Bernardo Silva Agreed!

[@RickMentore]

Can the same be said about the Nikon D850? DXO mark thinks a whole lot of that camera and giving their larger lens selection and just as good video, they are in the ball-park right?

[@3BMEP]

Rick Mentore yes!

[@TheSuhas96]

This is an interesting video and some very nice thoughts. Even though it has some glaring cons and limited lens line up the Sony A99II can also be considered close to medium format since it has the same sensor from the A7RII and almost 12fps shooting but I don't think people will consider it thanks to less reception towards A-mount compared to E-mount.

[@Smokin07ram]

I have to admit it sort of annoys me to listen to a guy that shoot medium format, that doesn't seem to understand how medium format (any medium format) is more than lens sharpness, it is a story tellers tool. By story tellers tool I mean using a medium format at f16 with a wide lens and still getting exceptional separation and focus falloff from the background, and indeed foreground. There is NO 35mm that can do this with the same level of beauty without creating comparative focus mush..... You seem like an intelligent fellow yet I wonder if this is lost on you? Sharpness the Sony can resolve...Shoot both at f2 and push everything out of focus and maybe that is true....My son has been shooting for 3 months and he shoots just like that...My point being ANYBODY can do that...Not that this is bad, rather that in medium format we all eventually learn to use the power of that focus falloff, creating depth that can never exist in a single plain "wide open" image. Also while Sony glass might be sharper than lower end Hassy glass, the medium format's additional micro contrast, tonality, detail, and color saturation are on a completely different playing field, yet not one mention? An experienced medium format guy should see these things as business as usual. I'm not sure if you understand that EVERY time you add a lens element to flatten the field or to sharpen the image you loose ALL of the above characteristics. This is physics and is not disputeable. My Schneider 150mm f3.5 is the epitome of this having just 5 elements. Outside of a controlled circumstances CA is terrible, but when used as it was intended incomparable! I shoot Phase One btw. All that to say, better is not necessarily better. Faster is also definitely not better, unless you put the camera where it needs speed. Everything camera is relative. If I am shooting fast I use a 35mm, if I am crafting an image front to the books in the background it will be with a medium format....ANY medium format. I shot the A7RIII and I thought it an exceptional camera with good glass. Though my D850s and 45 years of Nikon glass are going nowhere, I could see a day coming soon when Sony will be a must own. That day is indeed very close. For my son (who shoots video) that my be today. My thoughts

[@Crispy_Bee]

Agreed. That's like calling a medium format camera with all possible features a large format camera. It's just not the same on any level, no matter how much detail it resolves.

[@3BMEP]

Sorry, I should have responded to this sooner. But please see my series on the X1D. Episode 1 is out, Episode 2 is coming. In the meantime, please check out (if you haven’t already seen it) this piece written by Michael Reichmann of Luminous Landscape way, way back on the subject: luminous-landscape.com/shootout/. I’m not saying you’re wrong, I’m saying there are multiple points of view of varying degrees of validity, and I’m doing my best to see and assess as many as I reasonably can.

[@enricomarconi1767]

I must say I strongly agree with you, although I can see where Hugh is coming from, he does mention differences being 'negligible' and here we can possibly debate on the meaning of 'negligible'. What might be 'a small difference' for someone, for others might be 'the difference that makes the difference'. In my opinion the 35mm and Medium Format are two different planets. Period. Those seriously involved with photography, have developed an eye to appreciate these differences and the question is 'can you live with a 35mm quality or can you not?'. Truth to be told, most clients won't even see the difference from a crop sensor and a medium format image, but what about those of us who can? Hugh, is probably saying that 'for the money' the Sony is a terrific player, not discounting the wonders of MF.

[@3BMEP]

Enrico Marconi sorry, just seeing this now. Well said! You might also check out my review of the Fuji GFx 50s.

[@Kinderriegelfan]

The A7R III EATS STARS!!!

[@camerabrah]

Nice video, would you get the gh5 or the a7riii ? Thank you in advanced

[@3BMEP]

tron3 I bought a GH5 in March because I needed an ILC camera for documentary work. It was the right call and is an unbeatable camera - for me - at the price. I also have an a6300 with several lenses - great. If I regularly needed more resolution for stills or regularly needed better AF, I’d get the a7t III.

[@Kiywii]

So I’m a hybrid photographer/filmmaker and I’ve been wanting to get a new camera. I really would love to pick up the A7riii but it’s super pricey (when including good lenses). My other option is to pick up the GH5 but I’m worried about it for stills. Which camera would you get as a hybrid? I know this isn’t a fair comparison (full frame vs micro 4/3)

[@3BMEP]

Kiywii It’s a fair question and comparison. We bought a GH5 for doc work and it is superb in that way - but it’s also an excellent stills camera (though it does not have the video AF and resolution of the ‘III). What do you have now, and what do you need it to do?

[@Kiywii]

Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions I recently shot highlight films and recaps for my college’s football team and also ran their social media which included both taking pictures and making smaller recaps which were more suited for Instagram, Twitter, etc. I have been using the A6500 and I have relied on its great video AF but there are a lot of things about that camera that bother me and became big issues for me within the ten weeks I worked with the team. Most, if not all of the problems with the A6500 would be solved with the GH5 (brighter screen, better stabilization, cleaner slow motion video, etc) but I would lose the AF I relied on with the Sony. I know that I could learn how to manual focus well enough to handle sports in the future but it’s something I’m nervous about. I also use the A6500 for photographing the team and while I’ve enjoyed using the camera I’ve always wondered about switching to full frame (specifically for photography) but with the A7Riii I could have great photos and still be able to have great AF with slow motion recording. It’s just the price that really concerns me. To be honest, I think the GH5 is what I would love to switch to but I’m very skeptical of its stills performance especially because the normal research I do on camera gear isn’t helping me find very good reviews of its stills performance. Sorry if I’ve just been rambling on!

[@3BMEP]

Kiywii how and where will your stills be displayed?

[@Kiywii]

Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions for the most part just social media

[@GearGlassesGadgets]

Great information thanks :)

[@3BMEP]

Gear Glasses & Gadgets Thank YOU!

[@belizewired]

Nice video commentary as always Hugh. But from a hybrid and budget perspective what two or three lenses would you use as a video/stills shooter without breaking the bank? By this I mean no usage of G-master what glass would you recommend to get quality results?

[@3BMEP]

Belize Wired Pick from: 24-105/4; 85/1.8; 70-200/4; 35/1.4; the regular 50/1.8. Or look at Sigmas.

[@bananasandbass]

Sony FE 85mm 1.8 is just as good as the Zeiss, can’t really tell images apart. The Zeiss is twice as much in prince and has image stabilization and weather searing. But the Sony is just amazing bang for the buck. Also 28mm f2. Maybe the 55 1.8

[@3BMEP]

Bananas and Bass Agreed!

[@HarvestTVNetworkWithKevinHorn]

Thank you for your review. I'm seriously considering Sony.

[@3BMEP]

Church of the Harvest You’re welcome!

[@tomstewart9597]

Sony technology is disrupting traditional boundaries!

[@jfjjgfjgjgjgj]

I like this camera I just wonder how it holds up in picture quality compared to the big boys, would like to see a side by side photo comparison raw unedited?

[@3BMEP]

rudy mireles stay tuned

[@gcarmichael]

Having Canon equipment, the Sony was a tough decision for me but glad I did, a terrific camera!

[@3BMEP]

G Carmichael Enjoy! How will you use it?

[@NorthstarGamingchannel]

Hi Hugh, I really enjoyed this upload as your perspectives and points of view were really appreciated, well thought-out, and well broken down into layman's terms and good reasoning. For me like one of your other viewers I am more of a aspiring hybrid video and still shooter and I currently own a g85 from Panasonic with some great Panasonic and Olympus glass and while I have been considering jumping over to the Sony a7r series for what seems to be unrivaled quality I really enjoy the convenience and video quality of shooting with the Panasonic system. I guess my question is since I'm an aspiring hybrid photographer / videographer and don't currently have the $14,000 budget for the Sony a7r 3 system would I come out better for my needs by investing in the Panasonic G9 when it comes out? Once it was announced I watched your video with them and was amazed and intrigued by it which in turn caused me to want to wait and see before truly considering switching to the Sony a7r system

[@3BMEP]

Northstar Gaming G9 is an intriguing camera, agreed. Have just begun to wring it out, so stay tuned. So far, I like it ALOT (but be forewarned: it does NOT work with XLR Mic adapter). Since you’re already invested in MFT, it could be a great nest step. Seriously considering one ourselves.

[@NorthstarGamingchannel]

Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions thanks Hugh I really appreciate the insight

[@ladduro]

Any plans for batis 135 review ?

[@3BMEP]

ladduro I am so far behind. But... eventually. :)

[@markshirley01]

I'm hanging on for the A7SIII as video is now becoming more important to me. The A7sII battery was just not for me and the A6500 AF would be the icing on the cake.

[@IguanaFilmArts]

Who would win in speed? Eminem when rapping VS Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions mentioning lens specs?

[@jmez927]

Nope....not feeling the menu system and color science ..

[@arsalanuljamil6840]

Do you plan on doing a review of Fuji cameras/lenses? Would love to see a comparison between Fuji and Sony.

[@3BMEP]

Arsalan uljamil I’m terribly backlogged, but if Fuji wants to make a unit available to review, happy to do so.

[@vhc7764]

Thank you for your detailed assessment/analysis. WRT value, you did not mention the A9...it almost seems the A7R III is a far better value in terms of capability and tech upgrades--just my humble opinion.

[@3BMEP]

Swing Away I’d agree with you.

[@luissalazar2021]

Are you comparing with print?

[@3BMEP]

Luis Salazar Yes.

[@noeleon6475]

Some points are true, others ummm... since I own both formats I can 't bash one or the other the big difference here is bit depth which sony wont never touch unless they create a new system. By the way you only see the difference in prints and if you have a 16bit printer capable on screen they look very similar.

[@asadrasheed1672]

It is Hard to Digest but we need to accept the reality. Agree with you

[@bjoern_wunderlich]

The first Reason for me: Redundancy -> No one is talking about, serious??? The second Reason: better AF The Rest: makes no sense for me - i need no 42MP and all the fancy stuff - i wan't to shoot...

[@schultzdigital1]

Nice vid Hugh..

[@3BMEP]

Carl Schultz Thank you, Carl.

[@6gwilliams]

Good vid.

[@3BMEP]

Gerald Williams Thank you!

[@warmonked]

Oh man. The camera's great, but there's so much hyperbole here. Can't even finish this.

[@MichaelCarper2]

E Ink buttons: Customizable, low power draw, readable in sunlight and dark.

[@3BMEP]

Michael Carper GREAT IDEA!!!

[@BradBarnson]

Hey the HP 41 was not that hard to program... and mine still works!

[@3BMEP]

Brad Barnson You’re right. I loved it. Creative license.

[@jedteng2650]

The dialogue in this video is so low I have to turn up the volume but then the music comes which is too loud I have to turn the volume low again,then here comes the dialogue again....

[@jb_mt]

In my opinion Sony definitely has the money to make even more magnificent (advanced) image sensors, they are quite dominant in that field, they have the income to pump even more money into R&D. On the other hand, soon they will be a real threat to Nikon and Canon. No matter how big you are, if you fail to keep up with the rest of the world you might end up losing your position on the global market (eg. Kodak, Nokia). I am not saying that the above-mentioned giants will go down in a few years, but if it would happen it wouldn't be the 1st time in history of successful big companies. Great video, the only thing that bothered me a bit that I could hear your heartbeat during the whole video :) and your tummy at 27:11 :D

[@bananasandbass]

Great insights. One thing though, the audio drifts out of sync, I’ve seen it before on your videos. Maybe check if your external recorder is at the same sample rate as the camera and also your editing software has project settings to match. Cheers!

[@3BMEP]

Bananas and Bass Strange. I’m thinking it’s KZbin - this was recorded directly into the camera (RODElink wireless lav). I definitely did not see this in the master before uploading. Hmmm...

[@3BMEP]

Bananas and Bass PS can you point me to a specific moment or two where this occurs? Thanks again!

[@LarryMarshallPhotography]

You are so amazing in front of the camera!

[@3BMEP]

Larry Marshall Happy that you enjoyed it!

[@ThePhotographyHobbyist]

One thing's for sure...Sony sure isn't afraid to spend the $$$ to throw a photo party. I've seen several of these type of events hosted by Sony on KZbin over the last few years and I'm sure it's not cheap.

[@cactustweeter2890]

I had an HP 41C. I guess that gives you some visibility into my age. :-)

[@3BMEP]

Cactus Tweeter I bet you’ve seen The Who in concert! ;)

[@tejasgandhi9146]

Sir excellent review. Just think of 2 years old Canon 5dsr. I owe one. With legendary canon glass. Except4k videos itz as good

[@Mr2pint]

I'm not a camera man but Sony seem to have every KZbinr on board with their new camera promotion like nothing I've seem before - clouds judgement? maybe, I'm sure its a good camera but can't help thinking a lot has to do with Sony's extravagant promotion of the A7r 3.

[@chirag4]

great video, . . . shared it on FB

[@3BMEP]

Chirag Parikh Thank you!

[@stephen7627]

Higher resolution doesn’t mean its medium format ..... medium format uses bigger sensor maybe that is why we haven’t seen medium format camera having more fps than dslr’s. higher resolution benefits more for better cropping in editing and larger print size. But having no AA definitely gives more detail to the pics

[@3BMEP]

Stephen Moniaga I understand your perspective. Thanks for sharing it!