Sony a7RIV / A7RIVa Review 2 years later | Mixed Feelings

[@AdventuresinBackpacking]

I have an A7R4. It's a forever camera for me. Sure, I'll upgrade bodies down the line when the time comes. The A7R4 is just so good on so many levels, and it has helped me take some amazing shots. I'll never get rid of it.

[@artemisfowl9002]

i have to disagree, recently sold mine, firstly, no one needs 61mp unless you’re doing prints/crop in on your shots a lot, the biggest downside is low light image quality, unless you’re shooting with flash this camera falls apart at 6400 ISO, the a7iii beats it glaringly at 12800 ISO, it’s just overkill

[@primermag]

Do you have any issues with colors looking green? I have an A7R4 and my raw files in Lightroom take so much work to get skin tones to look right.

[@AdventuresinBackpacking]

@@artemisfowl9002 That's just not supported by what I have found. Compared to my A73, I honestly don't see much of a difference in high ISO image quality when the images are compared in similar sizes. I'll always go with more megapixels. I can't believe you had poor luck with yours. Maybe your lens?

[@AdventuresinBackpacking]

@@primermag No, I don't. I ETTR and use three lenses primarily: 20mm 1.8, 35 1.8, and the 24 G Master. No issues.

[@primermag]

@@AdventuresinBackpacking Awesome, thanks!

[@GodfreyMann]

Dan’s not really seeing the big picture - he’s trying to push square pegs into round holes. Sony’s making each camera fit a market segment, which necessitates compromises to work. Each of Sony’s models is perfect for their target segment with many satisfied customers. So having mixed feelings because the compromises have caught you out is missing the point, because it means you’re looking at the wrong camera. Anyone wanting a no-compromise camera with resolution, speed, and great video should be eyeing the A1 - Sony’s just making you pay for it and if you’re a pro, then it’s still good value. If you can’t afford it, then you need to be comfortable with compromise. Wanting a camera that can meet everyone’s need without the price tag just isn’t rational, meaning the negative tone in parts of this video were unjustified. It’s like reviewing a Ferrari with mixed feelings because it didn’t have the comfy ride of a Rolls Royce or Bugatti Veyron, and feeling mixed about a Rolls Royce, because it didn’t have the speed of a Ferrari or Veyron. Why criticise the Ferrari or Rolls for things they’re not designed for when the Veyron meets your needs?

[@genioitalianoadvtorinooper9517]

2023 and A7R4 is Still the best camera overall

[@sosomelodies659]

A7RIV will still have that glorious 60mp sensor that no one else has and the used market value is unbeatable in 2021.

[@Archonsx]

somehow the A1 with what? 50 mp? actually has better sharpness and image quality than the 60 mp of the a7r4

[@sosomelodies659]

@@Archonsx well at $6500 it ought to be right? A7rIV still the better value for resolution.

[@slurp3194]

@@sosomelodies659 u dont need that much resolution the a7iv os simply a better overall camera while delivering similar image quality

[@toddysurcharge771]

@@slurp3194 sure you do if you crop a lot in post

[@senorbuddL24]

Love this camera going on a year of owning it! I graduated from Sony’s APS-C line and still own my favorite crop lenses, as this makes the ultimate crop sensor camera. Nothing like shooting in full frame and glorious 60mp with the ability to zoom in like a high powered magnifier in editing. The negatives of having huge files have gotten less straining on our faster and more powerful laptops(!) and cheaper and faster storage options. Definitely wait, if you can, for it to go down to $3K when it did earlier this year, after the A reconfiguration 👌🏼 I currently use the A7C for video and casual shooting. I’ll be in the market for a used SIII to record home videos, after I have a kid to watch grow 🤞🏼 Even further down the line is a used A1 with hardly a shutter count lol

[@rubymountainscapture]

I own this camera plus a Fuji XT-3. I've owned all brands at some point. Nikon, Sony, Fuji, Minolta, Pentax... and more in DSLRs. I used to be proficient in film 35mm and Medium Format. Developed my own film and prints. Former pro wedding and portrait photographer. Honestly, the only thing I hate about this camera is the LCD screen. It's annoying in how it pulls out and moves. Color extremely accurate. Res off the charts. Focusing, controls, no complaints. I don't care for the menu system of all Sony cameras. But once you get used to it, not a big deal. I don't use it for video. I can shoot in the harsh Nevada midday sun and even in auto mode I don't get blown highlights. Shadows are perfect. I will never go back to Nikon or Cannon. The prices on their pro DSLRs are an insult. Unless you are concerned on "brand", forget them. Sony knows what they are doing and I know many pro wedding photographers who have fully turned over to the Sony system.

[@EIyssium]

I love it, ISO is shit on it, though

[@reckerproduction9468]

@@EIyssium , that's why You need to learn how to light things

[@reckerproduction9468]

@@EIyssium , that's why You need to learn how to light things

[@highrro]

I was able to get my A7RIV and some extra batteries for 2,600, and I’m so excited to use this! I hear great things!

[@Vlaakster]

Your channel just gets better and better! I just switched over to Sony after shooting Nikon for 20 years. The A7R IVA was my choice. I really enjoy it so far. The lens selection is great. The biggest issues I've found with it so far are the increased noise vs my prior Z7 and D850, the slow ass write speeds when writing files to the cards, and that trash screen. Its so weird the areas Sony chooses to skimp on. Anyway though, overall, its been a successful move and I am very happy with the body. I loved this video as I think there are still people considering these slightly older cameras today (like myself). I'm glad creators like you are making videos like this. Keep it up Dan!

[@MannyG32968]

I own the A7RIVA and over time it has consistently been the right choice especially for wildlife with my 200-600mm lens. It's a winner!

[@timothy790110]

shoot underexposed and bring up levels in Lightroom. No noise!

[@Vlaakster]

@@timothy790110 thanks!

[@ju2705s]

I love my 7rm4a and its for me the best camera with best lens collection. The picture quality is just amazing.

[@Eikenhorst]

The Canon R5 is a great camera, possibly even better than the A7R iv. But the main consideration for a camera body are the available lenses. I am a travel-landscape photographer and thus I want coverage from ultra-wide to telephoto as light as possible but with good quality. Canon has fantastic lenses, maybe the best lens in the world with the 15-35 f/2.8. But with the Sony there are so many great and especially unique focal length possibilities that it is so much easier to find the lenses that fit your need.

[@Yunhaisongtao]

Always find the best reviews and tech info from Dan’s channel

[@j.kimmer1509]

2 years a go this was a dream camera, now its a great happy lower price amazing photo camera.

[@bala1000mina]

Thank you so much Dan for the detailed review! Good luck!

[@holdmyown32]

I love my a7riv, for many of the reasons you stated. Image quality, AF speed/accuracy, and crop mode versatility mainly. You can always crop in post but I like to frame my shot up in camera so crop mode comes in handy then, almost like having a zoom lens

[@nyambe]

Has it been 2 years already? Wow, it has taken that long for the competition to catch up and they are still selling the a7Riv and the a9ii. That is crazy

[@learningcameras]

Yep, the only reason Sony (seems) behind with a couple cameras is that they are 2-3 years old compared to brand new cameras from other manufactures. Any new Sony camera (A1/A7SIII) is way ahead of other options at the moment. Sony got the head start in mirrorless and that bet is still paying off

[@Jna_Visuals]

Just got mine in the mail & i'm loving it! Yes I ordered one in 2022, Yes its still amazing, Yes its still worth it! 😁 Great Video by the way, Good work!

[@0zymanndias773]

I love this camera. Like true love and I know that I’m not using it to the it’s full extent but this thing is a tank like a tank tank.

[@LMActionsports]

I scored my a7riv for $2300 and I wouldn’t part with it. Those images are breathtaking with all that details when you have some great glass on it like the 135mm GM. It does everything I need a camera to do for weddings and portraits. Even a little action sports it’s still good. I picked up the Sony a9 for my back up and I barely use it. I love the image files on the R4. I really don’t see no difference in compressed or uncompressed when editing. So I shoot compressed and have had great luck with it. I could see me keeping this camera for a long time until it dies.

[@vads4683]

The tracking for sports is amazing on a7riv. It even works amazingly with ea5 adapter and old Minolta sports lenses. Keeper rate has picked up. But that 135 GM is something else, sometimes it feels you don't need a 300 or 400mm lens, you can just crop the 135 GM photo :).

[@LMActionsports]

@@vads4683 the 135 gm has replaced my 70-200. I don’t even use it but maybe twice since i picked up the 135gm. I just used the 135gm with my a7riv and A9 doing some shots for a client’s dog running towards me and I was surprised on how many keepers I had with the a7riv to the a9. About 75-80% accurate on my a7riv to 90% accurate with my a9. I didn’t think it would be that close. I think the 135gm is the best lens I have ever tried. And I thought the Nikon 200 f2 was a badass lens, the 135gm edges it out

[@jmackultra]

I mean I gotta respect this camera because to this day there's still only 2 other high megapixels cameras that can outdo it. And they cost more. And to this day the image quality is still arguably the best detail in the game. It was even the best video camera Sony made until they dropped their 10 bit cameras because it didn't have all the shortcomings of the A7iii. If you can catch it when they run it on sale for $2500 or so it's still the best thing blowing and going. For photography it's still my favorite camera. Until I can get my hands on an A1.

[@learningcameras]

Yeah, if it wasn't for Sony changing the version to the A7RIVa and it still being at the previous sale price, I'd be all over the A7RIV! It's only because they did that and jacked the price back to $3500 that I tell most people to hold off

[@Yunhaisongtao]

Which two can out do this?

[@jmackultra]

@@learningcameras facts for the that sub 3K price point it's much easier to recommend.

[@jmackultra]

@@Yunhaisongtao Canon R5 and the Sony A1

[@Yunhaisongtao]

@@jmackultra now R3 even better it seems like

[@SilatShooter]

This is an amazing camera, the files are sooo great and it's saves me all the time with crop-ability.

[@primermag]

Do you have any issues with colors looking green? I have an A7R4 and my raw files in Lightroom take so much work to get skin tones to look right.

[@SilatShooter]

@@primermag I use DXO for my files and I can't say that I'm having those issues. I have read others with the same issues and then I've read of shooters that love the skin tones out of the camera.

[@primermag]

@@SilatShooter Thanks! I'll have to try DXO.

[@Jez2008UK]

I've just purchased a brand new A7r IV for £1600, I'm not a professional but I wanted it to do landscapes. My last DSLR (a Nikon D700) and I sold that back in 2013 (originally purchased it for £1700) so I consider that a great deal, plus I'm just looking to getting back into photography and consider this camera for me to be more than enough :) (at that price especially).

[@Hagenruck]

Where did you get the A7r IV for that price? I would get it immediately.

[@onegreenev]

The rIV is a Studio Camera with an occasional video tossed in for fun. Excellent all around and solid high megapixel camera. If you are invested in Sony why bother with others. If you jump ship when another manufacturer comes on line with a tiny bit better in some areas then you are just a gear head. When the A7rV comes out with over 100mega pixels I'll be on board. I do have besides the rIV the new A1 and it pretty much covers everything I need and then some except it is only 50 megapixel. Rrrrrrrrr.

[@bwest6275]

A7RV Specs: Same 61MP sensor because all the power goes to the new processor. TOTALLY New Autofocus system with AI deep learning 8k 24p (cropped) 4k60p 4k24p (full read out) S cinetone is available 8 stop IBIS (unclear yet if “native” or with “gyro data”) Body looks like a mix between the Sony A7sIII and Sony A7IV.

[@theunsunghero9]

This review is a bit weird. The complaints are price (still cheaper than the competition), file size (yeah, it is a 61 MP sensor. Why would you buy it if you want to shoot less???) and that they updated the screen (see the point on price). What would you want to recommend it? Turns out one thing. Cheaper. But still the A7RIV is cheaper than the R5. Sorry but this is hard to understand.

[@ronanderson9960]

Just picked mine up last Friday, lot to learn, but love it!

[@longrider9551]

I couldn't agree more with you, I have had the r4 from the start and its amazing and frustrating at the same time. I upgraded from the R2 and still maintain the 35 to 45 megapixel range is the magic zone. The R4 punishes you for any mistakes in technique, when you nail it it beautiful but I would get a Canon R5 or something else in that 40-50 megapixel range if I were starting today. If the A7iv is 33megapixels I am preordering one for wildlife

[@fritsscholtenhzn6268]

Waiting for a7rV end of 2022. Hopefully for 102 MP inside. Crop. Mode for wildlife and BIF. Must take time.

[@fotografmorteneriksen]

Having owned the a7rIV for a year now, I have had some issues. For the portraits part..it has suffered from a lot of moire in clothes on subjects. Mostly men in jackets. Not sure why. It CAN be a pain in the ass on assignments, if you are not able to edit the flaws in post. Besides that, as a landscape camera I see no rivals to this. Paired to the 16 - 35 2.8 GM it is truly awesome.

[@vads4683]

Against moire you must choose a vintage lense, that's not so sharp ;). Some old Minolta 85.

[@fotografmorteneriksen]

@@vads4683 Or take more pictures, you get more good that way than bad :)

[@AdrianRankin]

Thanks for this review, it was helpful in deciding to wait to see what the A7IV might come up with.

[@whothewho82]

At this level of technology why hasn’t Sony fixed their software latency issues?? I feel like so many features could be fixed through updates

[@timothy790110]

I picked up a used one for $1100, but it has 145.000 exposures. fingers crossed! I love the customizability it has, you can really make it "personal"

[@Zhorellski]

As an avid wildlife shooter, crop mode on Ar74 is heaven sent!

[@TheBser97]

Snagged a brand new one today for $2600. Coming from Sony's APS-C format, I've got several nice lenses that I'd like to have the option to use... This IVa in crop mode still produces great quality images, so that was the main selling point for me. Plus, I'm mostly landscape and portrait shooting, looking forward to getting it!

[@alittlebitofjess_]

Where from? Everywhere is AUS is still sitting around 4.5 unless you opt for a shipped in model from overseas which I just don’t want to risk 🥲

[@Athiril]

I was so close to getting the A7rIV, I ended up getting the A7iv just recently, upgrading from an A7s Mk I… everything is a huge leap.

[@TheShockwave44]

Except the megapixels and 10fps.

[@Athiril]

@@TheShockwave44 A7iv has 10fps. Which I don't need or use. Files are already large enough and more than enough detail.

[@PALADIN867]

Just ordered one of these with Sony's mail in rebate for $3380 AUD ($2300 US dollars) while it's being cleared out of stock to make room for the A7R5. For just a touch over half the cost of the Canon R5 im stoked!

[@rickysingh616]

The price hasn't decreased in the UK..I recently bought a canon 90d but I'm now got my eyes on this

[@aightdenn]

I absolutely love this camera - and my clients do too. I can make so many wider food photography shots into cropped macro feeling shots with its ridiculously awesome resolution - I’m talking single grains of rice quality on sushi shoots. Sure there’s better AF now. And it’s my B camera for video if I’m shooting interviews when my a7siii is my A video cam. But for a serious powerhouse for photography you definitely will get more amazing shots.

[@Zetaphotography]

I had the A7R then sold it, now I'm back with the A7R2. I would like to make the jump to A7R IV be next summer.

[@auxsom]

Great work Dan.

[@burritobrosvideos8060]

The pictures are just the best from this camera. If I ever want the BEST pictures, I grab this camera

[@Mattrossphoto]

I love mine. Bring on the 102 a7rv. It’s my problem everyone else’s computers suck and are cheap when it comes to buying drives

[@PhotoTrekr]

Still happily shooting an A7R3 and an A7R4. But, I'm not a pro.

[@cameraprepper7938]

My wishes for next generation A7RV (or A9R) are a new 75(+) megapixels sensor, a 9.5+ megapixels EVF with 1.2x magnification, dials for shutter times and ISO and improved IBIS. No video options or the ability to turn ALL video functions OFF !!!

[@dreamsofhallerbos5261]

Sony will announce the A7r V 102mp in July 2022. Canon will announce the R5x/R5s 120/125mp a month later.

[@tumanforlife5977]

@@dreamsofhallerbos5261 hello from the future (august 2022), the Sony A7R V is not yet announced ☝️

[@GodfreyMann]

Landscape photographers need as much resolution as possible. I’d buy a 102MB FF camera, because when I’m hiking up mountains I’d be able to lighten my load with smaller and fewer lenses knowing that I can crop in half and still have 50MBs to play with. For special locations, I’d certainly shoot for 102MB for large fine art prints.

[@pzark3638]

Regarding the camera's LCD screen: - Sony A7R IVA: 3.0 inch w/ 2,359,296 pixels - Canon R5: 3.2 inch w/ 2,100,000 pixels - Nikon Z7 II: 3.2 inch w/ 2,100,000 pixels The Sony LCD is technically sharper (higher DPI), but obviously the Canon and Nikon screens are slightly larger.

[@learningcameras]

But when it comes to screens, DPI is basically a meaningless spec unless all other things are equal...kind of like MP. My phone says it's 100MP but the sensor sucks compared to a 12MP A7SIII. The quality of the panel has less to do with DPI unfortunately. You can buy a 4k TV for $300 and $3000...same resolution but one looks massively better. Right now every Sony display lacks quality regardless of the DPI. The A7IV lacks in quality and DPI

[@pzark3638]

@@learningcameras I get what you're saying, but that's very vague. What do you mean it lacks in quality: does it have poor contrast, color accuracy, etc.? I realize this video is also well over a year old, so if you can't remember, no worries.

[@dswatson83]

@@pzark3638 It's hard to say exactly what it's lacking since the only screen spec they list is DPI but basically, colors look washed out, blacks are not very deep, and everything shifts a bit towards green compared to better screens on most Canon, Panasonic, and Nikon cameras (although Nikon is pretty green too)

[@taylorsmith4799]

you touched on lenses but didn't quite express the importance of them. There are not a lot of lenses that can fully utilize the power of 61mp. I'd even go as far as saying if you plan to use zoom lenses then you're better off with an A7IV. The 61mp is so demanding, but slap on a lens like the 35mm 1.4GM and we see how truly glorious the a7r4 is. You should also add the insane amount of lowlight headroom. At 61mp you tend to see a bit of noise, and people misinterpret this and instantly say "bad at low light compared to the a73" but let me tell you. Shoot a 61mp RAW and export at down to 24mp or 12mp to compare to the a73/a7s3 and you'll have a better image that what both those camera's cant even think about getting at low light.

[@madmanjoe]

Sony a7riii actually is ranked very slightly higher at dxomark than the a7riv

[@silvestrocrino3256]

If I had to guess, the A7rV will have the same sensor but the processor, menu and card slot improvements of the A1… this will mean faster operation, better image processing, lossless compressed raw and ability to use the faster cards …it will also probably mean better video specs…

[@bwest6275]

Upcoming A7RV Specs: Same 61MP sensor because all the power goes to the new processor. TOTALLY New Autofocus system with AI deep learning 8k 24p (cropped) 4k60p 4k24p (full read out) S cinetone is available 8 stop IBIS (unclear yet if “native” or with “gyro data”) Body looks like a mix between the Sony A7sIII and Sony A7IV.

[@silvestrocrino3256]

@@bwest6275 …yep…nailed it one year ago.. :)

[@nicolas8336u]

Awesome long term review. I'm thinking about buying it now, considering that im able to do it at 2000USD new, the "A" model. So... Probably a great thing to do considering that im having a R34 and it's not able to use the wireless Sony shotgun mic fully. (Slowly starting to do some video work, but 99% of what I do is landscape and travel photography)

[@17industries42]

Where did you find one for $2000 new?

[@marvinspates924]

Great video Dan!!! I am a landscape and wildlife photographer! I need speed for birds in flight, I need high resolution for landscapes! I have the a9 for speed, and the a7r3 for the resolution! I did not get the a7m4 because it did not have a flip out screen for low portrait landscapes! The a1 has speed and the right amount of megapixels, but no flip out screen! The only camera that fits what I am looking for is the Canon r5!!! But I don't want to leave Sony. Maybe there will be a a9iii, or a a1ii that will fit the need! Lol If I could fit my Sony 200-600mm lens on the r5, I would get that body!!!

[@learningcameras]

Thanks! I definitely think the A7IV will give you what you want but will probably be limited to around 30mp. I don't think there will be a new a9III...I just don't see how Sony can make the A9 better without basically turning into the A1 haha

[@catho6785]

How do you find the A7RIII for autofocus speed for birds? I have an A7RII, which I’ve been using for all types of photography - including sports. I’d love an a9ii for all the great facial tracking features, but it’s completely out of my price range!

[@iAmAdrianClarke]

THE A7RV SHOULD KEEP THE SAME 61MP SENSOR, BETTER ISO PERFORMANCE, 16 BIT RAW FILES IN AN ATTEMPT TO COMPETE WITH MEDIUM FORMAT, AUTO FOCUS POINTS FOR THE ENTIRE SCREEN, TOUCHSCREEN IN AND OUT OF THE MENU AND I'M GOOD FOR 10 YEARS AFTER PURCHASE

[@河粉-k1h]

Vast majority of people I believe are locked into one camera brand because of all the investments in lenses flash etc before considering an ultra high end camera. So I wonder how many can easily jump from A7R4 to R5 or vice versa. Since every brand now has a sizable lineup of mirrorless camera bodies and lenses there is almost no reason to switch brands just because of some gimmicks on a body. So comparing across brands is now more like a fun hobby (which I like) than of any practical use. I have more than 10k invested in SONY bodies and lenses and I am not going to switch even if R5 is cheaper than A7R4.

[@jennifermedia6288]

Dan I love your work and all of it, but that curley hair man is crazyyyyy.

[@meljenkins1016]

I have the Canon R5. But have a hard time getting RF lenses from 3rd party because Canon put a stop to their production.

[@christiang-berg8490]

Really interesting video - thanks! 😊

[@ConceptNewEra]

Always wanted to get one of the A7R photos for awesome photography potentially! Love hearing your insight! 💯✔️🔥

[@Schrsmnymkr]

I feel like I'm playing hopscotch right now. Still debating on which sony camera to get to delve into the Sony ecosystem but everytime I think I've made up my mind about which camera body I'm gonna settle on I hear rumors of a new one around the corner so I just wait.

[@learningcameras]

Hahaha...rumors are definitely heating up!

[@I0nut09]

Hello. Now in 2023 what would you choose between Sony a7IV and Sony a7RIV? Both for photo and video.

[@learningcameras]

If you are shooting video, definitely go for the A7IV. While the sensor in the A7RIV is great and it does have a few upgrades, the differences in video on the A7IV are MASSIVE and will make a much bigger difference in quality and features

[@space-axe7532]

The Shutter sound in the a7r4A is slightly dimmer definitely not the original shutter from a7r4. Apart from the screen and shutter, there isn’t much difference.

[@christopherthompson4464]

A thoughtful piece of work, Dan. Thanks. I currently have an A6600 but am considering - for the ergonomics - the A7R4 to use in APS-C mode. I have a Tamron 11-20, Sony 16-55 and 70-350. With an A7RIV, that weighs 4lbs 12 oz, or 2.15 kgs in real money, for a reach of 16-525mm in 35m equivalent. What do you think? Thanks again for the stellar content and unintiidating style.

[@learningcameras]

Thanks! So the A7R4 would definitely give you some extra features, dual card slots, and still plenty of resolution in APSC mode BUT...that's a LOT to pay for a camera that will not give you any better quality unless you use it in full frame mode. I certainly wouldn't buy that unless you find a massive sale or buy it used. Instead I would look at buying full frame capable lenses and maybe jump on the Sony A7IV when it is likely released later this year

[@christopherthompson4464]

@@learningcameras Fully agree with your points, Dan. The upside is that I can pick up a second had one for about €2200 here in Europe - and that will allow me to go FF in the future if I so wish.And I absolutely want to use the 70-350 which is fantastic for wildlife and even action - in good light of course. Also, the 16-55 is great. I left Fuji for Sony for those two lenses. Much lighter than the XF16-55 and the Fuji 100-400 is great but sooooo heavy. The A7IV will be great, I'm sure, but I think I would be taking a hit when it comes to the two APS-C lenses. Thanks again for your though-provoking reviews.

[@vads4683]

I had a6600 and now a7riva. Crop mode autofocus points are better on a6600 (less gaps), 11 fps vs 10fps. but that's about it. The image quality from a7riv is just amazing and you can customize buttons a lot. I also like, that when I change from horizontal to vertical, then I can program focus area to change to for example from zone to spot to target the right person. Not sure if a6600 had it.

[@MarkBennettCameraCrisis]

I thought the update to the A7RIV LCD is 2.36million dots which is a better resolutions than the R5’s 2.1million. Because to me, the 2.36 million LCD is a bit selling point.

[@learningcameras]

Honestly the updated resolution didn't make that big of a difference in overall quality

[@MarkBennettCameraCrisis]

@@learningcameras ok - good to know. I am always disappointed with LCD screens on my Sony’s. Guess I just have to live with the fact they just aren’t great. I preordered the A7iv despite the lowly 1 million dot lcd 🤣

[@ldmndz4652]

Waiting for the A7R5..Yes Sony had an early start on the Mirrorless Game..but yet the are behind in some things as well..all I ask for if the A7R5 will still be around 60 megapixel that like you said Dan they need to give the option of L, M, S, raw files..I remember my Nikon D500 had that option..why is it so difficult for Sony to have this in the software?..in their cameras..

[@andrewbrooks2001]

I chose the A7R4 over the A7IV because of the sensor mega pixel and I dont don't really do any video shoot.

[@charruaporelmundo]

After the leaks of the a7iv as a photographer, I’m putting my eyes on a7r iiia or even a7r iv a. Seems a7iv got many video updates leaving us photographer on the limbo. Will wait thes 48!hr until official announcement but…. As a photographer we got , what? 33 mpx?

[@learningcameras]

So you will definitely get a bit more than that thankfully but yeah... Definitely more info soon!

[@ivanlarrauri2777]

1350 euro in 2024 is a good price?

[@Ehsan-Yousaf]

You did great work sir 👍

[@learningcameras]

Appreciate that!

[@vikdani]

Hey Dan, great vid! New subscriber here. I am switching from Cannon to Sony, and now deciding between A7IV & A7RIVA....I do plan using it for video, I would go with A7 IV, but with EDU discount I can score RIVA for $2600....Now I can't decide which route to go...saving almost $1k on RIVA, or buying A7 IV at MSRP.

[@learningcameras]

Appreciate that! So the A7RIVa is technically better than the A7IV in a few areas (screen, viewfinder, resolution...) but the video side of the A7IV has more noticeable improvements over the A7RIVa that make a much bigger difference so if you are using it for video ...either hybrid or video exclusively, I'd be more likely to get the A7IV

[@lumiereartistephotovideoro9825]

Amazing - Magnifique - Kitoko

[@mycroft983]

I can never understand reviews like this its like he want you to be Dr Who and buy what might happen and not what is available at the time. If a camera is " The best in the World" How does it become worthles two years later.

[@neethuandthomasphotography]

Hi Dan would you prefer buying 3 months old A7R4A ( 3000 shutter count )for 1900 USD or Brand new A74 for 2500 USD ? Mainly Photography with occasional Video work .

[@learningcameras]

If you shoot video at all, get the A74. Still tons of resolution and it's massively better for video with a few photo upgrades as well like the AF system. If you only shot stills, I'd get the A7R4 which does have some hardware upgrades (better screen/viewfinder) in addition to the resolution bump. Although keep in mind more pixels doesn't mean better quality unless you actually need the resolution for large prints or pixel editing

[@neethuandthomasphotography]

@@learningcameras thank you and have you experienced any shutter issue with A74 ?

[@learningcameras]

@@neethuandthomasphotography Nope, shutter on all my Sony cameras have never. had issues

[@perilthecat]

Oof, some Nikon shade 😂 ….still waiting for my “mirrorless D850” to replace my D850 but I do have an A7RIV so in the meantime I’m good.

[@learningcameras]

Hahaha... Just the Z7II which I think is below what the A7RIV and R5 offer. The Z6II I'm a much bigger fan of

[@CaesarConsuloProVita]

Is getting this camera for $1000 a good deal? I’m a beginner….

[@thatsme366]

I got a question Dan. I own the A7R4. I'm really thinking about switching to the A74 now that it's out. Good idea or no. Great vid.

[@learningcameras]

Hey! So the switch would be justified if you are also a video shooter. Otherwise probably stick with the R4

[@TBBMusicBlog]

Hi Dan! What do you think of the complaints about low-light noise in the a7riv? I've used all the Sony cameras at some point and I rented an a7r4 for a concert with terrible lighting. When I got home with my images, sure there was some added noise compared to my a73 and a7r3 experience but after going through my usual toning and correcting and then sizing it down to 2048p on the long end (the same size I'd save for the other two cameras) it looked remarkably better than any of the other cameras. But maybe I'm missing something. In other words, they all looked like a good quality to me.

[@learningcameras]

I really don't think there is enough added noise for me to care. Certainly it isn't really an "improvement" in quality over the lower resolution cameras because of it (one of the reasons I have mixed feelings) but it isn't worse enough for me to care

[@theDanDeleon]

Switching to Sony from Canon once the A7iv comes out.

[@learningcameras]

Yeah, can't wait

[@vettepwr23]

Hi Dan, great video. Need your help. I’m tired of doing research. I’m am A7RII user since 2015. I shoot mainly landscapes but occasionally shoot portraits. I also take several trips a year to shoot wildlife. I have no issue with image quality that comes out of the A7RII, assuming I nailed the focus. My biggest gripes are the buffer and focusing ability. Battery life sucks too but I have learned to live with that. My longest lens is a 100-400 GM with a 1.4 TC which is useless on this camera unless doing manual focus. Please recommend a camera. A7R3 or A7R4? I often thought about getting a crop sensor Sony but concerned about low light when shooting wildlife in the am or pm. Thanks!

[@learningcameras]

Thanks!!! So there isn't a big quality improvement with the newer cameras unfortunately but there will be improvements to AF, ergonomics, and battery life. The A7RIII would probably be where I would go especially since it's on an awesome sale: bhpho.to/3EfTtZZ It has some big AF improvements over the A7RII and while not as many as the A7RIV, it is still plenty good enough for landscapes, portraits, and all but the most intense wildlife. Plus you will definitely see massive increases in battery life and ergonomics. Technically the A7RIV is better but I don't think you will really see the difference enough to justify the extra $1000+

[@vettepwr23]

@@learningcameras Thank you. I ended up ordering the A7RIII from B&H.

[@learningcameras]

@@vettepwr23 awesome! Hope you have fun with that!!!

[@catho6785]

@@learningcameras thank you for the response - that helps me too! I have an a7r2 which I use for all types of photography, but have been doing more sports recently, and the focus speed/ability makes some sports really hard. I’d LOVE an a9ii (or even an a9), but as an amateur these are out of my budget. I hadn’t considered that the a7r3 would be a big jump in quality (without the next step up in price for the a7r4 - if you aren’t getting exponentially better tech)

[@learningcameras]

@@catho6785 Yep! Also, if you shoot any video at all, definitely look at the Sony A7IV too

[@matthewjc89]

1 year later and it's still at that ~3500 price point, unless you go renewed. :(

[@braydens5224]

Except the a 7 iv turned out to not be as good as we expected it to be. Would love to hear your thoughts on it now with this new info? I am torn between a 7 iv and picking up the r iv a

[@learningcameras]

I'm not sure why you think that. I actually sold my A7RIV to buy the A7IV lol. I mean, I wish it had full frame 4k60 but it's WAY better than the RIV for video. Other than the screen and viewfinder being a bit low in resolution, the A7IV is great

[@nategrady]

"The video isn't good" shows an absolutely incredible video wtf

[@learningcameras]

hahaha...point taken

[@Aroundtheworld-ew6rx]

Thinking the same thing. In fact it looked better than a few A7IV videos I've seen. 10bit is what all videographers need forget about lighting, composition, framing, and story. That's right folks get the A7IV.

[@Enonymouse_]

i had heard sony was discontinuing the a7r line in general.

[@chrishewson40]

Now, i have a dilemma, should I swap my leica q2 Monochrom for the sony a7r iv a? Or keep the q2 Monochrom? Which is the better camera? Im tempted but I feel like im going down a level in terms of luxury and class, it's almost like being in a special club, but i know the sony is fantastic and can do so much more. Also many pros seem to be using the sony a7r iv a for their main work. 🤔, but would i get ripped for getting rid of the leica?

[@ldmndz4652]

Chris Hewson ..not to sound disrespectful..but in your words "but I feel like im going down a level in terms of luxury and class, its almost like being in a special club." you kinda answered your own question already..dont get me wrong Leicas are awesome and their reputation is deserving of that no question..but is that all you see in Leica when you purchased yours?..to have that clout..and people see you have a Leica?..I know some fellow photographers who just buy a Leica just for that and im not saying thats what your reasoning was when you purchased yours and by all means people spend their funds on whatever they want im certainly not telling what to purchase with your funds..We all know the brands have all gotten good especially now..the so called competition helps everyone and at this point the cameras are all good its just the persons choice on what brand to get...Sony's, Fuji's and other brands certainly beats Leica in some performance aspect which you have mentioned that Sony is fantastic and can do so much more..you should keep your Leica..me personally im waiting for the Sony A7R5..lol I didn't upgrade from my A7R3 yet..

[@learningcameras]

What do you guys think of the A7RIV??? BTW, if you are a student, you can get this camera on sale right now: bhpho.to/3CrxzSn

[@JomaroTV]

if i am only interested in photos because i already have a fuji XT4 (insane videos btw) is the A7rIV good for me?

[@learningcameras]

Thanks! Absolutely, the A7RIV is solid for photos. The main advantages of the newest camera is some ergonomic tweaks, autofocus tweaks, and massive video improvements but for photo quality, the A7RIV is essentially the same

[@BrasilOO7]

I am thinking to purchase the 7R IVA. Is it good and fast enough to shoot pictures of my little son when he is playing around or doing some sports action? Would the R5 be the better choice? Thanks a lot for any hint…

[@learningcameras]

Absolutely the A7RIVa is good enough for that and a great camera. But if the price is $3500, I think the R5 is a better camera in a few areas and barely more expensive. At that point it comes down to personal preference and lenses

[@BrasilOO7]

@@learningcameras Thank you very much Dan for your reply. Here in Germany the RIV is selling for 3.799 € less 300 € trade-in-bonus whereas the Canon cost 4.499 €, so I think I will opt for the RIV.

[@artemisfowl9002]

get the a7iii, the a7riv is overkill

[@FlingerFilms]

Hey Dan! Great video as usual. I saw this video back in Sept 2021 and I re-watched it again recently. I noticed in the intro (time 1:19-1:30) is slow motion video that looks like 60P. Is that video HD 60P or 4K30P? It looks like 4K60P. Nice work.

[@learningcameras]

Thanks! So yes, the slow motion would be 1080p and I agree, it looks better than I expected. Some of that is due to the fact that 4k full frame is not oversampled so technically it's not the "sharpest" looking 4k compared with cameras like the A7IV that do oversample

[@FlingerFilms]

@@learningcameras So at this point, would you say that the A7IV is a better option for your business in comparison to the A7RIV?

[@learningcameras]

@@FlingerFilms The A7IV is actually better if you shoot video like I do at all

[@FlingerFilms]

@@learningcameras Thanks. I,be seen sample footage and features. I recently started shooting with the FX3 and have been testing to see how closely the A7rIV matched the FX3. Since we do shoot stills the A7rIV still something we use. Thanks for taking the time to reply.

[@letsgoletsgoletsgoletsgoletsgo]

Dude,I just need a camera to shoot products and food with in a studio environment, sturdy and dependable. This good?

[@learningcameras]

Yep, absolutely is great although if it's not on sale, the Canon R5 is slightly better and almost the same price: bhpho.to/3LFxfVd

[@danielvogler8053]

Very good video, very informative 😊 I have a question for you. I don't understand why there is only a 2mpx improvement of 26.1mpx apsc crop mode for the A7m4 compared with the Sony A6400 with a 24.1mpx sensor? I would have thought that if you have 61mpx full frame that this would be able to render 40mpx apsc mode?

[@vads4683]

it's 1.5 crop on apsc lenses, but full frame sensor area is actually 2,3x larger than apsc. a7riv 35,8*23,8=852,04 and 23,5*15,6=366,6. That also must mean the apsc lenses dont use the sensor as effectively as full frame, because lenses are not 2.3x crop. Maybe someone else can comment more about it.

[@vads4683]

I figured out myself I think. If you calculate 366 from 852, then you get 43%. For marketing purposes it was then probably rounded up and classified as 1,5x crop or 50%. Magic of percentages, but actually the full frame sensor is 2,3x larger 852/366. So the photos you see from full frame sensor with similar lens is actually 2,3x times bigger and low light performance should be too. 1 stop advantage low light advantage is also 2x advantage (2,3x to be correct) :).

[@voglerthevloger5870]

@@vads4683 Thanks for looking into this. I still don't understand it, though. Regardless, it is the only full-frame camera that I am willing to upgrade to, and bring my apsc lenses along. I'll get an 8.3% increase in pixel power (not a huge difference) , while all other full-frame cameras in the Sony range will decrease my pixel power when using aspc mode (compared to the Sony A6400). I am into wildlife photography and the more megapixels I can get for distance shots the better.

[@vads4683]

@@voglerthevloger5870 yes you can get more reach with apsc mode. But as the sensor is 2x times smaller it needs more magnification and a full frame lens on full frame sensor gives better quality i think. I had a6400, a6600 and now zve10 for fun. Their sensor photo quality is not the same as full frame a7r cameras. A7r cameras also don't have aa low pass filter and images are sharper and clearer. But you can compare for yourself. There must be a reason why some buy very expensive full frame 600mm f4 lenses ;). And full frame lenses generally are better quality too additionally to the sensor size. But as a hobby photographer you can use 100 to 400 on apsc and it will be 150 to 600mm for you. Zoom lenses also tend to focus breath more when focusing closer so that lens is not 100 400 but more like 350 for close objects.

[@staceypittman1384]

how do I tell the difference between the a7riv vs the a7rivA? (I bought one but I am not sure its the A)

[@patmat.]

13:29 'a slightly lower resolution'... 33 vs 61 Mpx

[@hellochii1675]

Hi Dan, a74 just got released. If I'm just an images taker, shall I buy the A74 or A7R4? If I prefer A7R4, shall I still buy the old A7R4 or the new A7R4a? Thanks,

[@learningcameras]

If you are using it for video at all, the A7IV is a massive improvement. If you are ONLY shooting photos, either one is great with the RIV having a bit better screen/viewfinder and higher resolution if you want that but you probably can't go wrong either way

[@josephpodlesnik5304]

Does anyone know how to disable/turn off the 'writing-to-memory card' animation in the viewfinder?

[@ThePatrvq]

still worth in 2023?

[@learningcameras]

If you're only shooting photos, yes. But if you shoot video at all, the A7IV or the A7RV would be a way better choice

[@glamourking2203]

So I have a7siii for video. I have a PhaseOne150mp for still but I need a great photo only camera for when i go on location and don’t want to bring the phaseone for convenience and safety? Also it’s now $500 off. Recommend?

[@charmerci]

You sure took a long time to say that the S series was for video and the R series is for photos. And apparently for video, you much prefer the Canon over the Sonys.

[@learningcameras]

Well...I'll say Canon is doing a way better job with "hybrid cameras"...cameras that are amazing for both photo and video where Sony is doing a better job at cameras specific to 1 task...with the exception of the Sony A1 that does everything well...it just costs $6500 which is definitely up there!

[@EDWARDTHEEAUTHOR]

Brands stay tricking ppl in believing the image quality is worth the upgrades. In a couple of years they will make you believe this camera isn’t as sharp 😂

[@jeffmiller6343]

When Sony has their sales, you can still pick up the Sony A7rIVA for $3000. I was able to pick it up at that price.

[@learningcameras]

Nice! I'd buy it for 3k

[@youknowwho9247]

@@learningcameras I can beat that. Where I live, the a7r IV sells for anywhere between 2 and 2.5 grand (used). The R5, used, costs above 4 grand. New ones are on backorder until God knows when.

[@cameronb4099]

Get a used one, maybe?

[@vads4683]

Display on a7riva is 2.36 million dots. Z7 ii and r5 are 2.1 million dots. How can the screen be worse?

[@learningcameras]

Because resolution is not indicative of quality. You can pick up any $400 50" 4k TV which technically has a higher pixel count per inch than most other higher priced TVs but it will still look like crap compared to them because the actual quality of the panel, brightness, contrast ratio, led colors, materials...end up impacting the quality more than the pixel amounts

[@vads4683]

@@learningcameras thats true, but maybe should have mentioned that then. Is the screen darker? Of course some panels are better not just because of resolution. But interesting, because sony tvs are usually better than competition. I have a full hd sony tv, that still looks better than many 4K ones.

[@learningcameras]

@@vads4683 That's why this is kind of disappointing. I have Sony's Xperia cell phone and the screen on that is freaking stunning 10bit hdr...if they put that it a camera it would be incredible! I'm not sure why a company that makes some of the best screens on the planet puts the worst looking screen in their camera. But honestly, it's bad enough that I'm usually embarrassed to show my back of camera shots to a client compared to some other cameras. Most other screens are also almost 10% larger at 3.2" instead of the 3" on the Sony

[@vads4683]

@@learningcameras maybe its possible to compare the screens of cameras too? Resolution, size, nits, hdr etc? Also touch screen functions. Just an idea. But 10% display size difference doesnt matter much for me and just "worse" left me wondering. Greetings from Estonia! :)

[@DIOS10]

I would keep it if it were good in low light. But it sucks. It will go for the A7iv.

[@artemisfowl9002]

EXACTLY! this was my main gripe with the camera, hence why i’m switching to the a7iii, this camera is damn near abysmal in low light

[@tumanforlife5977]

It's because, the higher megapixels you cramped in to the camera, the more noise in the picture.

[@beatmixer0097]

I walk away from this video as a “Buyer’s remorse after [2] years and other companies FINALLY joining the party. Appreciate your hard work creating these but I believe ANYONE could find something with their [2] year old camera that falls short of what is released [today.] I have an a9 and going on 5 years, I have ZERO remorse as I knew what I was getting and above all, I know that technology will always improve / evolve.

[@learningcameras]

So typically either firmware updates or sale prices help make old cameras still compete with newer cameras but the A7RIV actually costs more than it did last year!

[@beatmixer0097]

@@learningcameras Fair point! Although I think firmware updates largely address challenges (glitches) and perhaps “tweak” things but I think it’s a stretch to say they allow cameras with dates tech to keep up with current tech. Perhaps they thought that do to the “upgrades” they could justifiably price the camera at the launches $3500 - anything more than that would be absurd but to your point in this video, there are VERY few cameras that can achieve what both the R5 and 5riv can. Guess what I’m saying is if there were an abundance of options, and they still priced it at $3500, yea that wouldn’t mKe sense. Limited supply to deliver specific needs and high demand = Sony a7r4? Finally, as you very well know, it’s not just the camera you’re investing in, it’s the ecosystem and while RF glass is incredible, they are BIG, HEAVY and not cheap. Sony on the other hand started the party, were laughed at by C & N (especially Nikon and that executive who actually was quoted at saying that, “No professionals use mirrorless) but maintained course and here we are. Did you ever think that SONY would be considered the benchmark for the two well known giants?? Love them or hate them, everyone needs to thank Sony for ALL the incredible options we as creators have today. Too many focus on which is better and forget that had it not been for Sony, these options wouldn’t exist. ✌🏽

[@learningcameras]

@@beatmixer0097 Yeah...I mean obviously both of these cameras are insanely good (still personally own the RIV) so there shouldn't be buyers remorse. This is more for those who are buying something new and are choosing a new camera...should they still get the RIV or have newer cameras (even Sony's A7IV) gotten that much better. Again, if the A7RIV was priced below $3000 (which it usually was before that weird A7RIVa update), I'd recommend this more even as a new purchase

[@vikdani]

@@learningcameras B&H has a sale for $2600 with with EDU discount, or $2998 just with holiday discount. 100% agree, if we are talking $3500 price point - there are better options.

[@learningcameras]

@@vikdani We are talking 3500 typically...but yeah, it did just go on sale so either grab it quick or pick another camera because it will likely be back at 3500 shortly

[@azzazz4549]

I'm stuck between the A7RIV and A7IV

[@learningcameras]

If you shoot video at all, 100% go for the A7IV. If you are ONLY a photo shooter, tougher call but I'd go for the A7IV unless the A7RIV is on a massive sale

[@azzazz4549]

@@learningcameras My plan was to buy a landscape camera which would go along side my Nikon Z6 for portraits. so it's a tough choice

[@powpronto]

Sony is confusing right now. Updating screen from years old cameras and their flagship A1 on an old screen still. Incoming A1a? Lol sigh.