Sony a7R IV, RX100 VII One Week Later: A Bigger Picture

[@theizza68]

You and Mark Galer have a way to make these long videos so enjoyable to watch/listen to. Keep it up.

[@3BMEP]

🙏🏻

[@bobhanuman65]

Mark is the best. With his amazing inside knowledge about how to set up Sony cameras, I was able to move back to Sony with no regrets.

[@jhn011100]

I was primarily a Canon shooter and had one foot in the Sony camp. This pushed me over the edge. Got my preorder in and already sold a bunch of Canon gear to go full native.

[@3BMEP]

Jimmy Ngo Enjoy!

[@danieldougan269]

Why would you want the 26 MP APS-C crop on the a7R IV? Because sometimes that extra reach or narrower field of view is more important than extra resolution...particularly if you're doing telephoto work for sports or wildlife. It's like having two cameras in one, with none of the compromises. Even if you're shooting full frame with the a7R IV and you want that full-frame aesthetic, you probably don't want 61 MP all the time. So, Sony should also offer lower-resolution options without the crop so you only get 61 MP when you really want it. I think this could be done in firmware. I think it would be neat to have a 2X crop to imitate Micro Four Thirds at 15 MP. With that said, I might pick up an a7III someday when the used prices come down to earth, including lens prices.

[@CaptTerrific]

But isn't that exactly the same as simply cropping in post? What am I missing?

[@aliendroneservices6621]

@@CaptTerrific Without the large file sizes, and with the ability to frame the shot in camera.

[@stevenallen3066]

It's all I can do to keep from putting my Canon gear up for sale and switching to the Sony a7R IV / ecosystem. I'm an outdoor (mainly landscape) hobbiest and currently use the 5dMIV and 4 lenses. My theory is that I would only need one lens (maybe two) with the 61mp Sony (a wide angle and ?) and crop in whenever I needed to versus the Canon requiring a wide angle, a standard zoom, a telephoto and a macro. This would definitely cut down and weight and bulk.

[@jalexanderevans]

I just did it. Come to the side of the Jedi.

[@grendelz]

@@jalexanderevans Me too, Ive been shooting Canon for 13 years but I cant continue to live in the past with them.I chose the Panasonic S1R however, I think 61 may be too much. It will eat SSD's for breakfast.

[@jalexanderevans]

Nice! I went with the a7riii :)

[@avdsanden5835]

Sure, but, i would never buy a camera with a FF sensor in a smaller then canon M mount... I like lens construction...

[@jalexanderevans]

@@avdsanden5835 the GM lenses are pretty dang beefy! And even some lenses I own like the 90mm macro are deliciously designed.

[@gregthomasphotography]

Love your review and thoughtful comments. I have an R4 on preorder so really just watching to reaffirm my decision, but your wide ranging thoughts certainly made things clear.

[@3BMEP]

Greg Thomas Enjoy!

[@adamalthus]

Finally, a spot on economic and business strategy analysis of Sony’s plan to dominate the entire photo ecosystem. Kudos!

[@3BMEP]

Thanks, man!

[@MrJAM-np7go]

Sir, you are the most unique camera reviewer I've ever watched. I never saw the person talk this long, this wide perspectives. Thanks for sharing your thought. And I'm a tech-geek myself, so I totally agree with your upgradng whole system if you want use that high pixel density camera. I opened Jared Polin's A7R4 DNG files, they really need powerful computer systems including the high quality moniter.

[@3BMEP]

Mr. JAM Thanks for the kind words!

[@christopherward5065]

Eloquence and insightful erudition are so refreshing. Listening to you expounding on a camera and its context is refreshing. Brilliant!

[@3BMEP]

Christopher Ward 🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@stephendenagy3396]

So is it important? I never buy on preorder, but I preordered as soon as it was possible. This camera fixes everything I wish on the a7R3. Two cameras in one. Lazy man’s portrait by pulling a portrait crop out of landscape. Improvement in ergos and great sealing. The R3 will be for sale.

[@kokho88]

After viewing 50+ photo channels, I enjoys yours the most. You are even handed, your comprehensive and all round views, your up to date technical know-how, your hand-on photographer's insights; Most of all, your cultured and articulated conversational approaches to subject matters...Laced my viewing experience with a home-coming sensation. Enjoy your way Cheers!!! I am 66, retired photographers, well travelled 40+ cities in USA, 20+ cities in Europe, 10+ cities in the Gulf & Asean + Australia; 30+ cities in Asia & China. Once the top 3 billings photographers of Asean, covering Sinar, Horseman, Hasselblad, Minolta, Rollei, Bowen & Broncolor Swimming pool 15 Strobe Combo

[@talpomeroy5808]

Ko Kho you might be the short fellow who broke my rib at the Peter, Paul, and Mary concert in Watsonville

[@3BMEP]

What a lovely, generous comment. Thank you - and thank you for sharing your background.

[@kokho88]

@@3BMEP If you are in Singapore, please informed me earlier, i shall host your dinner +1 or +3 wharever convenient for you. I shall be your guide for an one day tour of Singapoe in a 6 seater MPV

[@kokho88]

@@talpomeroy5808 Ahehe, for record I did not practice kungfu or Muar Thai ^_^ ^_^

[@sanchayansarkar2953]

You are a better version of Jeff goldblum

[@howlinhog]

Ha! Can't believe I didn't make that connection myself. Good call.

[@marcosarg1]

Now i see it!

[@christopherbgriffith]

As always, a thoughtful, rational, and insightful dissection of the entire camera industry. It's an exciting time to be in the digital photography space, and it always pleases me to start out a Friday with commentary from Hugh. Bravo!

[@3BMEP]

Christopher Griffith Thank you for taking the time to share such a lovely thought. 😊

[@TumblingMustard]

Wow. Great perspective. We are more or less getting the fabled a7000 hidden inside the new a7r. If you consider it two cameras worth of use cases, it’s a steal at that price.

[@MARZILLI]

Your business ideas for the future of Sony is way above the average business IQ (full stop!) lol. Nice job!

[@TheJKiller95]

Is there a podcast version? You should consider doing it. It's such a pleasure to listen to you

[@3BMEP]

Alessandro Stefanato Thanks so much! No separate podcast for now - I wish I could do everything on my plate. Sigh. It’s just the two of us. 😊

[@bobhanuman65]

After about 4 months with the S1, I regrettably sold it for 3 reasons. 1. No lighter weight and affordable native glass. 2. Abysmal autofocus. In great light outdoors at an event with the 70-200mm lens, I missed 25% of the shots. and 3. The weight. Long handheld events with the 70-200 is brutal. I've gone back to Sony and the a9 which I thoroughly enjoy and thanks to Mark Galer have set up the camera with great ease and efficiency so I'm really not bothered by the menus now as I hardly ever need to access them. My dilemma is that I have decided that it will be much easier to have a second body in my back with another focal length rather than change lenses or use a zoom. I thought the a7riv might solve a few problems for me. 1. Unlimited video record time. I shoot longer events and don't want to use an external recorder. Just too much gear. and 2. with the 26MP in crop mode it would be like having 3 lenses with the 2 cameras. After listening to this, now I'm not sure. I don't want 2 sets of lenses. That is a very important consideration for me. Maybe I'll wait and see what the next 2 cameras are that get released in the next few months. But then that ability to crop in and use in 35mm crop is still very interesting.

[@3BMEP]

Bob Hanuman Thanks for sharing your real world experience. I understand your process completely.

[@CaptTerrific]

I've ONCE wished that I'd had a 4-stop vs. 3-stop nd grad when shooting on Velvia... a 9 stop scene. Given dynamic range drops as ISO increases, i'd much rather the companies start advertising just how high of an ISO one can achieve where dynamic range hits 8 or 10. That'd be a much more useful metric.

[@3BMEP]

Great idea!

[@hautehussey]

Then they’d have to admit that their ISO specs are intentionally skewed. (And the differences between all of the models would be quite small).

[@andyaldworth7807]

I’ve watched this three times. The best analysis around the Sony strategy I’ve heard. You also make it so pleasurable to just listen to your musings. Now my favorite photography KZbin sight. Keep up the great work!

[@3BMEP]

Andy Aldworth so glad you enjoy it! 🙏🏻

[@andyaldworth7807]

Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions The only piece I forgot to mention is that you provide such a well weighted explanation of the reasons for and against buying the A7R4. Hugely appreciated!

[@ebouwens]

Very thoughtful review. For me , the cost of the upgraded body would be dwarfed by the upgrade that would be needed in my computer, hard drives and storage from mid level solutions to screaming high end equipment. That is a no-go for me.

[@3BMEP]

I understand completely. Though might be an incentive to learn how to appreciate single malt scotch while you wait with your existing setup ... 😉

[@jeffwisener1378]

Maybe an ignorant question and I do claim ignorance; since the 61 megapixels is certainly a large amount of data and on my typical surf photography shoots, shoot over a 1000 photos per day, is there a setting (besides crop sensor mode) to shoot at less than 61 megapixels? If yes, for the sake of argument, let's say it could shoot at 30 megapixels, would the photo quality be equal to another camera that had a 30 megapixel sensor? Sorry if this goes into the category of dumb question of the day. The answer may help me in determining if the smaller megapixel A9 is the better option for me than this 61 megapixel beast.

[@3BMEP]

Not for raw (yet). I no longer have the camera in front of me, but for JPEG, I think so.

[@alchemist_x79]

Just took the plunge on the a7RIV, upgrading after my a7RIII (and 100-400GM) took a dive to the concrete. Slumming it with the 70-300G in crop mode until my 100-400 is repaired. So far, I'm loving the RIV with the 24GM and the Sigma 14-24 and 24-70 Art lenses, don't have the 85GM but hopefully the 85 1.8 will hold up OK with it. We'll see what the future holds.

[@3BMEP]

It will. 😎

[@tracephoto1823]

Watching this almost 1 year after you published it. First time viewer. New sub. - 1 month ago I sold my Nikon(s) D-800 & D-850 along with a 24-70 f2.8 and left behind 20 years of weddings and events. Purchased the A7R IV along with a Sigma 35mm 1.4 & a Zeiss Batis 85mm 1.8 and now embracing street photography. Could not be happier. Precisely due to all of the advantages you listed along with the intangibles. Looking forward to more content. Looking into the patron and following on Instagram. Thanks for the hard work👍🏻

[@PKAPE004]

2:13 NYC with airplane and a high-rise building...brings back certain memories.

[@johnherzel718]

As a Canon shooter, I watch with a sense of longing as Sony makes it difficult to stay in the fold. I want a smaller package ( here’s looking at you A6400...) and I almost went for the M50. Then Eos RP said hello. Then I looked closer and realized Canon was crippling a camera rather than throwing all their effort into making it awesome, now I have to wait...Sony?..If only their menus were humanly usable. Photography is supposed to be fun not frustrating. Why Canon, why?? Please make a great camera again. Why Sony, why?? Please figure out user interface and humanly useful menu systems. Who ever completes their task will win my love and $

[@terez2001]

Agree 100%! I came up through the 5d mark iii, and 5dsr - love love the menu’s and have been holding, and holding on buying a mirrorless waiting for a pro level Canon I could continue to make big prints with. The sony menu system is the only reason I have not jumped to Sony. I am tired of waiting, so I went in on the Fuji GFX 100 - IBIS, PDAF, DR - menus still not as nice as Canon, but not nearly as bad as Sony. Do I need 102 megapixels- no, but if I could have bought 50 megapixels with IBIS, PDAF, DR great color science and menus - I would have - Canon?!?

[@johnherzel718]

90D will need to be a show stopper or I will have to enroll in Sony menu college (A6400). Fuji May also be an option. 100 mp is awesome but that’s my car budget for the next couple of years. You have made a great call with Fuji MF, I can only dream about that camera. Canon please don’t drive me away.

[@onefootatatime263]

If canon is your first menu then you are already accustomed to it so change is harder I used canon before I used Sony I found at first it was hard but I did realise there are more choices in Sony Then I learned how to st it up And now I find it easier and quicker to use. Have you tried Olympus menu? now that is harder to use Cheers

[@terez2001]

John Herzel Thank you John Herzl for the great conversation, and yes my next year will likely not include any of the investments I wanted to make in my house!

[@terez2001]

Onefoot Atatime Thank you Onefoot - its good to hear a Canon shooter transitioned with Sony, albeit with some challenges initially, there is hope - and I think my friend more and more will transition. I do really like that this system is adaptable to the EF lens - did you keep any of your Canon glass, and if so, which ones translate for your vision on the sony body? Best!

[@z4294967296]

How to sell more glass? Release the A7RIV. It’s really smart.

[@philindeblanc]

I'd like to know how fast I can preview a 61mp image in 1:1 zoom, and then change the picture, same 1:1? This is important to me. I would like to know if the settings hold once I remove the battery without shutting down. I'd like to know how the electronics are improved. I have had my issues with the A7RII and I dont read or watch anywhere about those aspects being better. While I can preview my Canon files almost instantly. Change frame, and its instant 1:1 zoom, and zoom in and out with ZERO LAG! These are important in the field. Canon electronics have had a card slot error until a firmware. Sony firmware #4 and the electronics improved to be able to use the camera, but still has its weird glitches any day I use it. Also the flash settings go wonkers with a flash trigger. You have to turn it off and on a couple times. Its just a mess. I love the files it makes, so I try and deal with it, but on event shoots, the Canon files are also super, and ZERO issues. Have had it for over 3 years now, and I would not buy another Sony. I rather wait for a better Canon that surpasses the 5 series in all areas. The R to me was a waste of time. Also without a option for 40, or 30 megapixels the A7R4 is just a over bloated file generator. In some shoots in makes sense to use 61mp, but in some it is actually in the way of shooting. No touch screen yet? I can live without, but a menu system that makes sense, maybe even Color code would help...Nope!

[@shadda]

Also, I left a comment on another video recently about how your audio sounded muffled in a lot of videos, and nothing I did on me end seemed to remedy it. I'd like to note that this video I can hear you entirely clearly and I'm curious what the difference might be?

[@allanruhnke1734]

What is the name of the music starting at 2:08 - 3:15?

[@jeffreytaylor6257]

My wife bought the RX100vii a while back. As an a99 user, I was worried about using the little assassin. However walking 18 holes, capturing high quality stills, video at 240 fps, all while carrying it in my pocket has made me a believer. What a tool.

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy!

[@devilmaycry383]

Had to sell my A7iii a few months ago and have always wanted the R model of A7 Camera's so maybe it's the right time now since Sony have improved alot of the ergonomics and that 61MP sensor is amazing so much possibilities being able to crop. Also like the RX100 VII as a secondary Camera.

[@davegreiner5902]

Loved your video - Insightful, articulate, clear and thorough! Purchased the original A7R (primarily for Landscape), then the II and was contemplating the III and find this surprise announcement VERY compelling especially as I always want max image sizes (not to mention the other great improvements), but I told myself I would not buy an Update until SONY included a versatile/functional fully articulating screen (which they have mastered for other products). Truly can't believe they built the IV "from the ground up" without addressing this as I know they tout/seek maximum creative flexibility - MANY times over missed shots could have been made by having one! Of course, there are always trade offs (and other items I'd love to have, like focus shift), but had they finally resolved this, I absolutely would have taken the plunge - like you, I'll have to further mull the IV over to see if this ends up in my bag. Really did appreciate your well thought through comments (which I'll undoubtedly go over again as I contemplate this new model). Thx.

[@3BMEP]

Dave Greiner Please keep me posted!

[@alpharecordingstudios8510]

Got to say i could sit here all day listening,such great honest reviews and thoughts on everything

[@3BMEP]

Alpha Recording Studios 🙏🏻😊

[@MidsierramusingBlogspot]

Sony has been anticipating the A7R4 and beyond with the GM lenses that preceded it. No camera is better than its lenses.

[@3BMEP]

dematson correct. 👌🏻

[@JeffUnderwoodUK]

I have an A6000 plus Sigma 16mm and 30mm lenses, I shoot urban, street and landscape for pleasure and the hope of winning camera club print (up to A3) and projected digital image competitions. What should my next step be? Upgrade to the Sony a7 what? Or get better glass?

[@3BMEP]

Jeff Underwood You don’t need more camera. Have you printed any of your work? Have you hung any of it at home? I might suggest spending the money on these things instead!

[@rickjbradbury]

I think we have reached the point of diminishing return for 35mm FF resolution. Yet rumours say higher resolutions are coming. After shooting the Canon 5DsR for the last 1.5 years I don't feel any need for more resolution on a FF chip. Next step is MF for me.

[@sandiegobowen]

Another amazing listen. Thanks so much for all the out-of-the-box thoughts. You never cease to create a more complete picture (pun intended) of a piece of gear.

[@3BMEP]

😊🙏🏻

[@aperturereign5810]

Nope, not doing it, not even thinking about it. My main focus (pardon the pun) is to figure out how to take my EXISTING gear to places I've never visited or shot before.

[@3BMEP]

Aperture Reign GREAT idea!

[@MidsierramusingBlogspot]

I'm getting the A7R4 and taking it to places I am still yet to visit. This includes backpacking into the Sierra Nevada.

[@MartySteinberg]

I took a bath upgrading my A7Rii to the Riii last year, I think I’ll skip the IV and look into adding another lens.

[@gyrex]

@@MartySteinberg I made the same move and I think I'll skip the Riv and see what the Rv brings in a couple of years time :) My Riii will be more than enough camera for the next 2 or so years.

[@guyrab]

Hi Hugh greet and soothing as ever. Did you think about tuecfact only g master lenses can resolve 61 mp ? So you need to invest on expensive glass crop mode will also not benefit from regular lenses in terms of resolution. Think about it

[@3BMEP]

Guy Rabinovich I have. Not every G-Master will be good enough. But a great crop lens covering 26mp look fine for most of what we do. We will see!

[@guyrab]

Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions the drop lense Will also not be able to resolve for 61mp, unless it is a g-master of sufficient quality which is not crop but definition, right? But i know you thought about that....

[@3BMEP]

Guy Rabinovich a crop lens by definition cannot use all 61mp. When a Sony mount crop lens is attached, the camera will effectively, automatically limit the part of the sensor available to that lens’ coverage area - 26mp.

[@michaelgordon2860]

If you're coming from the A7R II and the A6500 primarily for video use then is it good to get the A7R 4 and pair it with the A6600? I fear the A7S III will be later next year.

[@Rollergold4]

Still hoping for crop sensor + A9 tracking in an A7R4 style body, it make for a nice wildlife body.

[@3BMEP]

Rollergold4 Sure would!

[@homesickphotographycomau4107]

WOW scared of you. your talk is amazing... Your perspective is outstanding.. understanding/reliability is much match. Your power to draw in the viewer and lock to the end, a art former in itself. Your aim and reach your point are like a epic that battle. hehe you belong here. You tube.

[@milesgommeimages]

What about the RX100 7? a video?

[@davidstremmelaar5819]

61 mega pixel divided by 4= 15,25. that about the density of a microfour third sensor with a 16 megapixel sensor, a great mft lens like the olympus 75mm 1.8 does 12 perceived megapixel according to dxo mark, 12*4 would make 48 perceived megapixel with good glass. with a7RIV many mft lensen go no further then 8 percieved megapixel, that would make 4*8=32 megapixel with reasonable glass.

[@3BMEP]

The Oly 75/1.8 is an incredible lens. We own it and use it for portraiture. Just stunning. And tiny. And relatively affordable.

[@KeemIbarra]

I'm still running on the sony A7RII and it's worked like a beast for me. These upgrades are nice, but don't necessarily call for an upgrade to me. Maybe the battery life would be nice.

[@villagranvicent]

I bought my A7Rii brand new last October and except for the less than stellar battery life (I bought 5 spares) I agree with you it's a beast, I see no real reason to upgrade to the A7Riv, or the A7Riii actually.

[@kian8382]

I think the RX100 series is now serious enough to diverse into 3 variants, one with a fast aperture short zoom lens; one with slower but super-zoom lens; and one with fast aperture zoom lens and low pixel count for image quality and 1:1 readout in video like the a7S.

[@Biosynchro]

Philosophy of photography - and industry in general - at its finest. 👍

[@3BMEP]

🙏🏻

[@MarcoValkvideos]

You say the A7r4 is an unforgiving camera due to the high megapixel count. Makes sense. I intend to use it with canon L glass for landscape and macro photography. Am I gonna get in trouble?

[@3BMEP]

Depends on what Canon L glass you intend to use. I can tell you from personal experience that the old 17-35/2.8L, for example, will not hold up - but the old 200/1.8 will be just amazing. :)

[@MarcoValkvideos]

Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions I have a 16-35 f/4, a 180mm f/ 3.5 and a Sigma 20 mm f/1.4 art EF mount.

[@3BMEP]

Marco Valk take a look at DxOMark (I am aware of its limitations). To get the most from this sensor, you’ll want to look at lenses tested on 42-50 megapixel cameras which score at least in the low 30s perceptual megapixel range - AND you’ll want to shoot at base ISO.

[@MarcoValkvideos]

Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions thanks. I’ll look into it.

[@RayLenses]

With this voice even long videos is so fun to watch

[@frankfeng2701]

What is really upsetting about this RX100VII release in terms of video features is the Canon-like handicapping and pricing, caused by Sony's complacence of progress and lack of competition in the market. For $1200 prosumers can get an A6400 + 18-135 kit that is at least a stop faster and more versatile. For $800 prosumers looking for pocketable option can get a brand new 2-year-old RX100V with a faster lens and internal ND, which matter more for serious vlogging and 95% of hybrid shooting, especially in low light. For $400 casual vloggers can get DJI Osmo Pocket that can shoot 4K60p with a built-in gimbal. For $100 anyone can just afford a DJI Mobile that can be used with any smartphone they already have. If Sony starts to slow down, smartphone will take over compact 1" no doubt.

[@3BMEP]

You make good points. 👍🏻

[@craig_m_mi]

61mp requires better lenses... so they need to make some, and Sony A7Riv users need to use them. Not just about the bodies and MP's

[@3BMEP]

Craig Pickles good point!

[@njrtech]

They're called GM lenses

[@chiRal123]

What are the best lens for A7R4?

[@msmarji]

Always look forward to your commentary. I hope Sony updates APS-C, for me, it’s the perfect SteadyCam/Gimble set-up w/the 10-18 internal focus zoom. I love my a9 for everything else. The a9 is the best camera I’ve ever had, including my Nikon F5 & Canon 5D Mark I, which I still use for portraits.

[@3BMEP]

We will see soon enough.!😉 Thanks for weighing in.

[@vettepwr23]

Hi Hugh! In Jan 2022, would you still consider getting this camera? Have an A7R2. I normally shoot landscape but starting shooting portraits, wildlife and perched birds. Everyone says A1 but I'm not ready to buy that yet. I am planning on selling the A7R2 once I upgrade unless there is a reason to keep it as part of my kit. I'm considering an A7R3a ($2000), A7RIVa ($2600), A7IV ($2700) or a used A9 ($2400). Thoughts? Thanks!

[@3BMEP]

What is that you can’t do with the ‘2 that you think one of these other cameras will do?

[@vettepwr23]

@@3BMEP Focus well and accurate in AFC for anything moving. The 2 lives in AFS and does very well there.

[@3BMEP]

In that case, the a7 IV is the sweet spot for value, performance and resolution.

[@danev1969]

Hugh, I’m reminded how so many photographers a few years ago wondered why anyone would need a 20 MB camera or (a bit further back) why we would need a 100 GB drive. Truth is we reach further into the improbable to realize what is our dream as new capabilities and potentials are presented to us. Ever so slowly this becomes a new normal. And then we reach even further… I'm enjoying the ride.

[@3BMEP]

Great point!

[@Lotus2885]

No record limit for a7Riv?

[@3BMEP]

Nope! 😊

[@UrbanoModa]

very important details about ISO and Dynamic Range, key video, as always well thought out and presented

[@phelix920]

Great video. 👍🏾 You’ve got the whole quiet storm radio voice going for you, sir.

[@3BMEP]

Thanks, man!

[@americandowninbrazil]

Hugh, thank you so much for this video! You have such a smooth, relaxing, radio-voice that it makes such a pleasure to listen to you talk. God bless from down in Brazil!

[@3BMEP]

Christopher Soule Hello, Brazil - thanks! 😊

[@gentleman0678]

As much as i like this camera, i still can’t get over my experience with the leica SL and the leica S 007. The lenses, oh the lenses. Decisions decisions!!

[@dinamanilaishram3499]

For the giveaway you mentioned to sign up to your email. Can you clarify what that mean?

[@3BMEP]

Dinamani Laishram in the show notes you can sign up to our blog. Good luck!

[@abennettphotography9017]

Hi Hugh. Off topic but any chance of getting your tshirts in another colour? Black ain't my colour. Blue, green, yellow, red, purple?

[@3BMEP]

We’ll update the choices this weekend! Thanks for your suggestion!

[@mainardo20]

I wish more people spoke to their audience like you do. I don't feel ur talking down to me, making it so much easier to gather information

[@3BMEP]

Happy to be of service. 😊🖖🏻

[@eksmaan]

@ 21:42 begins to explain why I returned my GFX 100 and what saving $6500 buys me LOL. Great video!

[@3BMEP]

🙏🏻😊

[@brunob8827]

I am not a photographer (I am looking forward to purchasing my first camera) and I enjoy your channel so much... Have a nice day!

[@3BMEP]

Thanks so much! Welcome - and enjoy yours!

[@troyphillips1077]

This is brilliant strategies within a camera war . Sony has been the leader for sure . I haven’t been a Sony fan but that is changing. Oh I hate to say that but it’s true. Nikon has been the camera system for me for so long . But if I want my photography and videography to be keeping up with The Jones I’m going to have to change . This is what the system wants and it’s almost making us move forward faster than we want so our image quality moves forward to keep up. “Do you want your work staying ahead of the local competition “ then it has to be better period . As Sony is pushing forward and changing the photography/videography world so will your work have to be the top cutting edge in your area. To me the greatest aspect is the ability to out focus the competition. High resolution cameras have to be in focus better . The lens is changing, the image is changing and the camera is changing. The “LOOK” is changing of the whole image . Everything is becoming so much more “perfect” . With this perfection comes that different look . Flatter looking images that are harder and sharper without any aberrations . As you compared the 16images overlay you showed how it looked like an impressionist painting. Our new LOOK in photography is so perfect in edge details it’s loosing the inner tonal detail that flattens the image creating a cartoonist image . It’s SO real looking it looks fake . Sharp edging detail creates a line drawing type image in a super macro type way that takes the “life” out of living images. It’s the way of the future in many ways it’s a cool new look but in a way lifeless rendering. The GFX 100 and other medium format cameras that are futuristic in sharpness also seem to give back a little more of that innertonal detail of the film camera era. Future and past into one package. But as for cost and mass production photography and videography the “Sony Look” will become future look of the masses . And if you don’t have that look you will not sell as much product. The medium format look Fujifilm and Haselblad are creating is another step further into the future. So I believe they and creating the “look” for several years ahead of Sony . Sony will be answering back but for now they are scooping up the cash of the masses. The end

[@3BMEP]

So appreciate your investment of time to share your thoughts. Thanks for weighing in!

[@Pyndle]

Hi! I'm coming from an A6500 and am a bit frustrated by the image quality. I like to crop a lot, especially on wildlife shots (I only have a 70-300mm lens, I travel a lot so I don't want anything heavier/bigger) and the quality really drops. Does it make sens to upgrade hoping to double/triple the range of my 300mm with cropping without losing quality? Or is it very stupid and I should just accept to carry around a 600mm lens? I'm a bit lost, any advice is welcomed :) Thanks!

[@3BMEP]

azdzad dazddaz Assuming you have the budget, yours is a great use case for the a7R IV - you’re exactly right. The ONLY issue is if the lens will hold up at 61mp, but you assert that you’ll be cropping the crap out of it. It’s not in the same league as either of Sony’s 70-200s.

[@Pyndle]

@@3BMEP Thanks for the reply. I didn't even know that lenses could be an issue for 61mp, I don't want to crop all my shots though so I'll check compatibility. Ideally I want a 100-400 but it's so overpriced :(

[@chrisloomis1489]

Oh God .... You are so getting this camera. Claudia ...get the check written !!!!

[@bxlgotham6566]

Hugh, maybe you would know. Any instinct on whether a Mark3 of the Rx1 on the way??

[@adammescan4860]

I wish Sony would offer High, Medium, and Low RAW file types that you see in Nikon cameras! They've constantly improved and listened to their customers which is amazing in it's own right but that's the bigger downfall for me. I don't want to have to shoot crop to get the 26 megapixel files. Maybe a firmware update could implement this feature? I'm curious how you feel about this.

[@3BMEP]

I agree.

[@grrrrrgh]

I agree that the new medium format cameras without IBIS don’t work for street photography. They are too big and slow for that type of photography, I was super excited about the GFX 50r and ended up sending it back and preordering A7Riv, I hated it. Would be great for landscape or studio but not run and gun, no way.

[@carerra911]

they were not made for street photography

[@mblapsiwala]

Does image down sampling from higher Megapixel to lower megapixels in post reduces the noise and improves the overall look of the image? For that matter, down sampling from 24 MP to 16 versus 42 to 16 shows up any difference on the end result? Anyone having idea about this, may guide me... Thanks in advance for your time and consideration to comment!

[@RobertNuttmann]

A year and two months after giving up a very good working crop sensor digital camera system I really liked and going after the supposed benefits of full frame digital I am seriously thinking about going back to a smaller lighter system like an improved crop sensor system. I already have a high end iPhone, and tiny Sony pocket system. But still like something bigger than the "Hobbit size" tiny Sony I can put filters on, but not so dam big and heavy as a full frame digital with honking huge full frame digital glass. I have gone back and compared my 24mp photos from pre-full frame and they look the same as my current 24mp full frame ones. And this is in spite of glass that is 4 times the price compared to what I paid for the crop sensor lenses. I originally thought about getting one of the new RIVs and pre order, but when faced with gargantuan full frame raw files and the fact that the only time I would see the 61 mega pixels is on a high end computer monitor I decided that ease of use and smaller camera bag were what I really need.

[@3BMEP]

R Nuttmann I love it!

[@Nicomanism]

Are the colors - from straight out of the camera - improved from the a7riii?

[@3BMEP]

Yes! 👍🏻

[@MuhammadKharismawan]

Just found your channel, and I just watched the whole video without skipping.... Clear enough, I'm subbed now.

[@3BMEP]

Muhammad Kharismawan Welcome!

[@SchatzFamilyHF]

Love your analysis and business perspective. Blue ocean strategy is a great book that every analytical person should read. As an MBA and photographer, this is right up my alley. Thank you!

[@3BMEP]

🙏🏻😊🖖🏻

[@TACollins]

Just really well done. I love your talent for analysis. Thank you.

[@3BMEP]

Thank you for your encouragement. 😊

[@dandonovan1]

Just watched it for a second time. Love it! (and nice to see Capture One in use!)

[@JoseDeida]

I would never shoot Sony....hold that thought. Dammit.

[@3BMEP]

Jose Deida It’s OK! 😎

[@sebastiantorres890]

Hi Hugh, interesting point of view related to the A7R4. In my case I am hesitating between de A7iii or A7Riii? At today's price point, $2000 A7iii and $2.500 A7riii, which one do you think is more interesting? Thanks

[@3BMEP]

At the moment (for us) the R III. What do you shoot?

[@sebastiantorres890]

@@3BMEP Mainly portraits and general photography. I have an X-T3 and before that a D610. I love Fuji design and build quality but I kind of miss the full frame look. I also feel that Fuji lacks options in terms of glass. Sony line-up is impressive and also Sigma and Tamron are in the game.

[@yornoc318]

Class Act! Thanks for the best and most professional reviews.

[@3BMEP]

Michael Conroy We so appreciate your encouragement - thanks!

[@oligilkes6355]

Typically great video! Love the inclusion of everyone's preferences contextualized in your own opinion. As a newby to photography it is a massive help. One question that I was inspired to ask by this video, how do you decide how big to make a print? I have some images I would like to print large but don't know how to select the size.

[@3BMEP]

We print very, very few of our images larger than 8x10 because we have very limited wall space. Until recently, we’d only printed two I would consider large: the background in the batcave (4x8’) on an a7 III. We have a 27x40” print taken on an X-T3. We have four more being printed now, up to 44x49.” We evaluate aesthetics, subtext, how and where it will fit on the wall - and how we’ll feel when seeing it every day. We evaluate whether or not the images are true expressions of... us. But this is just how we do it. What about you, dear KZbin viewers? Please weigh in!

[@oligilkes6355]

@@3BMEP that's great thank you. I hadn't considered it that way round. I was focusing only on the photo. Always great to get a realignment of how to view things.

[@scb2scb2]

I know its a silly reason not to upgrade but the more i think about it the more it bothers me that it doesn't use the new 'paradigm' of the A9M1 and now the rx100M7 of the stacked sensor that changes so much and opens so much new doors. I won't be upgrading my a7R3 for now and hoping for a A9M2 with 36MP or 42MP to keep the idea of aps-c inside but with that... i know its just in my mind in a way but the shooting mostly without shutter is the future and buying against that again feels wrong to me personally.. and yes i am a nerd and i know its a problem... So sony show us the A9M2 with next steps in what you can really do and please add a higher count pm sensor (36 or 42 is enough).

[@3BMEP]

Daniel Ockeloen this all sounds reasonable to me, Daniel! 😊

[@scb2scb2]

@@3BMEP Yeah the unreasonable part of me is the amount of self control i need to show when my camera shop calls and tells me we have a a7R4 left over for you do you want it anyway ?

[@RealTechnoPanda]

Jon Stewart has a camera channel?

[@3BMEP]

He is a national treasure!

[@dartvader60]

I wouldn't swap g9 for this. Best and most comfortable hand held camera one can own hands down. 🤟🌷😎 Love your videos. Your a gentleman 😉.

[@3BMEP]

Dart Vader Thanks for sharing your perspective - and the kind words. 🙏🏻

[@paulgero]

Lucid and well reasoned as always Hugh! You’re a national treasure.

[@3BMEP]

Paul Gero LOVED catching up with you! Road trip...working on it!

[@dronemetrics5853]

Amazing as always....and as always I learnt something today ...thanks

[@3BMEP]

Mario Bluewings 🙏🏻😊

[@darinwynder7207]

as you rest on the blanket of vocal buttery softness get up to speed on the philosophy of the image and know where a new ecosystem entry lands, ...though seemingly full of tangents and excursion i enjoy hearing quickly the sideline entries to understand where a piece of gear fits not only in it's own system but where it stand amidst it's competitors. Watch the whole video, there are payoffs throughout!

[@stephenscharf6293]

Hi Hugh! Overall, I think you did a commendable job of providing the context of where this camera fits in the current market. The release of this camera doesn't come as a surprise to me at all, because the A7 RIII was introduced in July 2017. And, 2 years from now, you can pony ~$4000 for the Sony A7 RV. I'll provide a counterpoint if may: I see the A7 RIV as "Classic Sony". More bells. More whistles. Bells & whistles that differentiate this camera from other market offerings (as you remember me pointing out here before) only at _the very extremes of performance._ 99.9% of photographers do not require the singular differentiator of this camera (the 61 megapixel sensor) 99.9% of the time. This is evident by the emphasis Sony themselves put on the ability to use it in APS-C mode at 26 megapixels during the launch event. And while it has new bells and whistles, it appears this camera's R&D timetable was driven by Sony Marketing's timetable, not R&D's, as the AF & pixel-binning performance are clearly not ready for launch, let alone prime-time. The video specs, lets be honest, are out-dated & underwhelming at best, & the menus are still cr*p. When will Sony get a grip on this? Its been what, five years now? So...my reaction to this camera is, "Meh. _What EVER"_ My principal issue with Sony has not changed: They are still looking to seduce folks into thinking that buying a new Sony camera with the latest & greatest bells & whistles will transform Joe Average Photographer into Robert Capa or Gerda Taro (hence the marketing guy constantly asking _"Whaddaya think of THAT?"_ 🙄). Personally, I find this strategy specious because "specs" have virtually nothing to do VISION and INSPIRATION. Just ask Robert Capa or Gerda Taro. Oh, wait, you can't because they died in the pursuit of their vision. But...you take my point. I hope you are doing well. Oh, and I LOVED the reference to Blue Ocean Strategy! Cheers and Thanks! Best, Stephen.

[@skvltdmedia]

That reminds me, of how overall very well Sony has done outside of cameras in terms of UI, their camera department is abysmal only next to Canon. Control aesthetics as well. And needing the DoF of FF cameras, man, XT3 finally made Fuji shine to be my current daily driver. Only real gripe is lack of decent wide-angle options.

[@robertpearson1781]

So much info and interest I had to watch it twice. Thanks, I’ll check out Blue Ocean Strat now..

[@victormultanen1981]

great video, I love the way you zoom in pictures. the most cool feature to shoot in such resolution is to be able see detail on the aeroplanes high in the sky. thanks for sharing!

[@3BMEP]

As always, my pleasure. 😊

[@edwardleak3050]

Since, Sony manufactures all sensors for Hasselblad, Canon, Nikon etc; it’s possible that the A7R 100 with 64 mp will in the future be followed by 100, 200, pixels? Will medium format camera become outdated? I’m a Hasselblad photographer; still shot film . Hasselblad have patnershipped with Sony for three years; Is it a wise investment to wait on Sony 100 mp cameras or see what Sony and Hasselblad have up their sleeve?

[@3BMEP]

Great questions! Shoot what makes you happy, now. Who knows what will happen in the future?

[@billlyl3725]

Hugh, if you sold timeshares, I’d own Orlando. Thanks for using your power for good instead

[@3BMEP]

B Littell hah!

[@durveshjavle7870]

Spielberg of Narration and Tom Hanks of Expressions!! Amazing review and info digital camera industry!!

[@3BMEP]

🙏🏻😊

[@Yatukih_001]

I´m here, because Camera Conspiracies sent me. Is the lens for the A 7 R IV flat (does it have aspherical functions)?Great channel! Good reviews and amazing pictures and videos!!

[@3BMEP]

Yatukih001 Welcome! Saw his a6100/a6600 video this morning - made me laugh out loud.

[@Yatukih_001]

@@3BMEP I know. I shoot on Sony a 6000 and on Nikon Coolpix A 100,1000 and P 1000.I like shooting with cameras which have aspherical functions.He is a great guy and thanks for laughing. I love to inspire people to laugh! Real important...

[@michaelbornagain7264]

Everything about this makes me want to switch from Canon. but my biggest concern is high iso shooting vs Canon 5DIV. I shoot birds in flight a lot early in the morning. I want to wait and see more real world evidence before switching. I do appreciate your review and am interested in the comment about dynamic range and iso.

[@deniszolin1]

Thank you Hugh for an enjoyable, informative and analytical video with positivity, the 7r4 is for me.

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy!

[@Bill-NM]

I look forward to the day when, because of high megapixels and sharp glass (that's affordable...we ain't there yet as far as my pocketbook is concerned), as well as perhaps excellent/natural computational image enhancement, I will only need to own, say, 3-4 sharp prime lenses for 98% of my shots, being able to crop like crazy in post. Something like 16mm, 50, 135, and 400.

[@3BMEP]

I like it!

[@RolandAyala]

Sony continues to reign supreme as the undisputed spec queen. Too bad they can't seem to figure out the experience of shooting, which I find unsatisfying relative to the competition. After years of continuously updating to the latest and greatest spec'd cameras (incl. lots of Sony), I discovered that I got better results from systems that are better thought out ergonomically and in user experience, despite marginally inferior specs. I think we're well past the point where specs play a significant role in producing great photographs anymore -- other factors matter more nowadays IMHO. Of course, impressive specs are great too, but you've gotta have both. For photographers who are happy with the Sony experience, the A7Riv seems like a no brainer if in budget.

[@RobertNuttmann]

Roland Ayala completely agree

[@jshanni2066]

Thought provoking as always, Hugh. For me, it's simply a case of diminishing returns and endless arms race. If we invest in 60mp now, what do I do next year when someone has 100mp in an EosR/Z9/A11R3 etc etc? Either I decide on a number that is enough, or I never stop chasing a myth. I just printed a 30'x20' shot from the superceded Gx8 sensor and it looks great. That's a 20mp chip. My G9 is an even better output. I also have a 36mp Pentax dslr with 15 stops of dynamic range if I ever need it. Can I even envisage a situation where I need 61mp!? No. No I can't. So I'll stick with what I have and hopefully learn to be a better photog. And admire all these newcomers from afar without the strain on my wallet!

[@3BMEP]

Jason Hannigan wonderfully considered and delivered point. I just got back four mounted prints, the largest coming at 45x49” (image size) shot on an S1R, but another one nearly as large shot on a G9. Can I see the difference? Easily. Does it matter? NOT AT ALL. I’ll get into details in a future video, but I will say this: these prints are so big that I could only get them home by putting down the rear seats in the car, leaving the trunk open, and driving at 15 mph with the emergency flashers on. Put differently, I have discovered the practical limit for what ai will print, and a micro four thirds sensor with great glass (for what we do and how we do it) is sufficient.