Sony a9 Real Wedding Photographer Review

Time for some straight talk about the Sony a9 and Wedding Photography. I may have thrown some shade on it during the announcement, so here is my real, hands on, working photographer's verdict.
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All images edited in Capture One Pro 10 and Copyright Wes Perry Photography 2017.
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[@eldeanenaude]

I work for Sony - I watched the video - and thanks for sharing your insights. As you know, we really do listen to our customers and we will make every effort to improve on your suggestions. Thanks again for sharing this video and your experiences.

[@WesPerry]

+El Deane Naude Thanks! After wedding season I'll be making a video more specifically about any suggestions for software improvements I have. 😉 The only thing that obviously can't be fixed and that I (as well as most, apparently) can't wrap my head around is the odd choice of having one UHS-ii slot and one UHS-i slot. I'd love to know what the actual design/engineering decision behind that one was.

[@Lu-gm9mx]

If you still work for Sony, we need updates on the a1 please!! Lol

[@SharifAbdou]

Wes, great review, one of the best I've seen on the A9 so far. Cheers.

[@derekvento6067]

Nearly 4 years later, this review is INSANELY good! Just found your channel, Wes and it's superb! Awesome content, love your cadence and tone of voice. Appreciate you being so thorough.

[@WesPerry]

It’s been a long time! Much has changed, but also much hasn’t 😉

[@town3]

I totally agree, I also have this camera and have been telling everyone this is the best camera i've ever had, it's just two handfuls but once you get it all locked in it's the best. Great truthly review thanks Wes Perry

[@WesPerry]

There are so many settings, I'm not sure that I'll ever be able to say that I have it "all locked in"! haha

[@town3]

LOL Yeah i don't focus on all of the stuff i don't really need. Ii customize my camera buttons and make sure i don't have to keep going inside the menu for anything for the most part and i'm good. The rest i'll learn slowly over time.

[@Connor_Dempsey]

Great, thorough video. Glad to see you did the pros and cons. It was great seeing an honest review with both the good and the bad. Tired of seeing all of the fanboys who only have glowing reviews, without stating the downsides.

[@EmoEmu]

A channel with focus on wedding photography is quite interesting. I shoot some each year, and I'm usually always trying to balance what gear would be best for hobby and what gear will be best for commercial uses. Subbed and looking forward to more great videos.

[@MuhammadFaatehMalik]

i dont need to see anymore reviews! I need money!!! lol

[@vc6218]

exactly!

[@ThinkCriticallyNow]

One of the best reviews I've seen of this camera yet, well done. Definitely subbed.

[@WesPerry]

+Superformance72 Super! 😏

[@MannyOrtiz]

Subbed! Great vid man

[@Zeeem99]

I'm not a Sony shooter but what an excellent review. I love your eloquent delivery-got yourself a new subscriber

[@emph66]

Great review, the A9 certainly makes a wedding photographers job a bit easier other than the fact you have more images to review later.

[@vishalbhavsar7961]

the best review for sony a9 ever i have seen!! thanku for shaing ur experience Wes Perry

[@showbissydney1587]

Hi Wes, great honest review. I thank you for pointing out the flaws as well as the great features of the Sony A9. I'd certainly turn to your channel for future gear reviews.

[@TomNguyen]

Wes, after using Sonys extensively for the past decade (A7, A7R2, A73, A7R4, A7CR), I finally have a used A9 (original) on the way to dip my toes into this ol' beast. Hey, it's the only way I can afford it! :P. Your insights about it are great to watch, thanks!

[@AydinOdyakmaz]

Bang on. Got mine on the 25th and have done 2 weddings a marathon a mountain bike race and little league baseball and yesterday a family portrait session. It's perfect for my needs. Biggest issue is the menu system which again changed . If they were all the same I wouldn't mind but they keep changing it on every model . Sigh. Good review thx

[@WesPerry]

+Aydin Odyakmaz The only saving grace for the menu system is that you can take an hour and go through everything and put the only items you use the favorites and function menus. If you're careful enough about that, you'll never have to dive into the whole menu again! Which really shouldn't be something to dread, but such as it is for now :)

[@AydinOdyakmaz]

Wes Perry true I guess I better get on that 😉👍

[@nolaPIC]

can you save all of your settings to a card and transfer them to a second body?

[@WesPerry]

+nolaPIC Not that I'm aware of....that would certainly be nice. I'm going to make a video on my settings and how to set them (two videos from now), that I'll have to research that topic further for.

[@AydinOdyakmaz]

Gary Fong did an app now for the menu system , thats how complicated it is!

[@cooloox]

Tremendous video! I'm not a Sony shooter and don't plan to be one, but this video was excellent and showcased what a terrific camera the A9 really is. Subscribed right away.

[@BrentRivers]

It's only worth what they charge, because of the deficiencies of the A7rii that you covered. It's a, 'must have' because of the better focusing, low light focusing (a7rii has left me challenged and missing shots) so, my guess is, i'll dump my A7rii while keeping my A6500 and the A9. I don't need the 85meg files that are choking Lr, and, I can still do enlargements as necessary. Should have less cropping with the focus point availability, so framing shots should be much easier which they have been for me.

[@DeepSnowRider]

Great review Wes. You should seriously consider getting the vertical grip, holds 2 batteries and completely changes the A9 ergonomics

[@WesPerry]

+JTGphotos I really like the small size, and additionally I use the Spider Pro Holster, and the grip would greatly change how well it hangs on my belt. I'm perfectly fine with changing the batteries a couple times during the day, anyway. If I could do it 5 times with the a7ii, I'm sure I can deal with it once or twice with the a9 ;)

[@BrentRivers]

great summary, and ALL valid points, most of which are my gripes and concerns with it as well.

[@koolkutz7]

Good review. When it comes to Menu layouts, I reckon that Panasonic & Nikon are the best. They are clear and put together in an orderly fashion, unlike Sony's. And when it comes to touchscreen functionality, my Panasonic G80/85 has full touchscreen functions for shooting, playback and menu options-take that Sony!

[@andrewgipe8910]

love that you mentioned we need touch screen capabilities in the menu screen, but when you touch the screen you get finger smudges and fingerprint marks which would lead to a dirtier screen. Perhaps someone needs to invent or produce rather a touchscreen pen, like people use for their iPads, that can be used on the screen so it does not get dirty.

[@WesPerry]

+Andrew Gipe My iPhone remains usable even after touched. We just need higher quality screens (brighter, scratch resistant gorilla glass 5, higher res still) with good oleophobic coatings.

[@69_MK]

Silent shooting could come in handy while shooting an intimate moment such as the bride getting ready where you don't want shutter noise from a DSLR becoming a nuisance and then making the photographer not shoot confidently and missing shots.

[@WesPerry]

+Mandeep Kalsi I get rave comments at every wedding now, about how they were so comfortable with me just hanging out with them, not making any sounds, and not seeming like a photographer the whole time.

[@69_MK]

sick

[@MrChristopherwren]

The white balance of this video is very nice.

[@WesPerry]

+A View to the World Well that's good to hear, since I don't do much of anything to achieve it. Haha. I suspect that the white countertop I sit at makes it easy for my camera to auto white balance the video. I'm only willing to go so far to make myself look pleasing during wedding photography season ;)

[@MrChristopherwren]

I think I should consider the white set up. Thx.

[@corradofrola4553]

Hi Wes, first of all your videos are very professional and complete. I'm a professional wedding photographer. I've change my life, in better ,from Nikon to Sony A9. But... in these 4 years with A9 i get some issues not in line with a professional reliability of high end camera. For instance, after 2 years, suddenly the shoot button half pressed didn't focuses (changed by service) And now, suddenly, during a wedding, flexible spot tracking doesn't work in AF-C, no face recognition, much less eye focus. I find the solution on the group:remove the battery for a few minutes and everything is back as before. My question is: do you, anyone reading this post, had some issues like that and which is the solution you find. And, today, after 5 years from this video and i imagine a lot of work, do you always recommend the Sony A9 Thx so much. Corrado

[@WesPerry]

The only issue I’ve had was the one with the shutter button after a few years, which I also had replaced. I hadn’t heard of the one about the focus not quite working before 🤔

[@corradofrola4553]

@@WesPerry thx Wes you're really kind

[@trinakoster]

Excellent review, very articulate! As a brand new a9 owner I really appreciated your pros & cons.

[@greatvedas]

awesome review... appreciate the circular loading graphics that pointed features of the camera.

[@WesPerry]

+Venkateswara Rao If you like those you'll love my previous camera body comparison video 👌🏻

[@Lighting4aQut]

This is a dope as review. Really concise man

[@acrummey85]

High, I'm here in Riverview and was surprised to find this great review. Perhaps we will cross paths someday. As for the price, it is significantly less expensive than a D5 or a 1DxMkii and offers a similar level of performance for wedding work. I can't afford one but for my purposes that level is truly overkill. Please continue to produce these quality videos.

[@WesPerry]

+Ira Crummey Thanks, Ira! Ive seen you appearing by-times in the Moncton Photography Facebook group :)

[@Baluma1]

Thank you for a nice review. Really good job and good luck with next videos!

[@keithsmathers9815]

Thanks for providing this video. Great job!

[@thinkinginpictures4071]

One of the best videos I've seen in awhile on Sony gear. Subbed!

[@hkkrapper94]

Quality work speaks itself. Better contents than the so called- artisan, pros without much details with irrelevant pictures. i think you can use some compression and de-esser on your audio signal. Thank You.

[@thomasstanworth]

Excellent review - thanks for sharing and so evidently being objective!

[@VaughnJESW]

Great review. Thank your very much for this.

[@simeonkolev1231]

I was charging these days my A7rIII with Anker USB3.0 3A output power bank via its USB-C cable and it was quick :)

[@WesPerry]

Yeah, the a7Riii thankfully has a much improved charge interface with the addition of USB C.

[@JulesFredericNerestant]

It would be nice if you went into more detail about the difference in workflow since you switched. Cheers!

[@mondotv4216]

Great review Wes - you were a brave man using that in production with only one battery, although you obviously had a backup plan. On menu design - you and the Northrup's are spot on! I think the best menu design at the moment is the Black Magic Design Ursa Mini Pro. It just completely simplifies things - its not perfect but it's logical and intuitive including having the format card menu on the opening page and not buried in some menu on the second page. Branching menus would be better and they sort of do that but they could take it another step.

[@WesPerry]

+MondoTV I had another camera attached to my hip the whole day (in case this new, somewhat untested, camera failed), and also never let the battery go below 25%. No chances were taken ;) I haven't seen the Black Magic menus. I'll have to have a look. Thanks!

[@rahuldayanand9001]

Nice Review...Thanks....Keep up....I have a Question... The launching reviews of A9 mentioned that the Electronic Shutter was capable of sync. with Flash at 160 [250 with mechanical shutter].Is it True or all False

[@WesPerry]

For some reason, at launch, Sony (or someone?) mentioned in passing that it could do up to 1/160s, but it completely switches to mechanical and doesn't allow you to even try working a flash with the electronic shutter turned on. Now, I'm using Godox flashes, so maybe it's possible with Sony flashes, but from what I've heard, it's entirely impossible (at present). It could be that they had meant for it to work, but just haven't gotten around to making the firmware do it yet?

[@dontblinkweddings9306]

Great points said Wes! Thanks for the info. I shoot Canon currently and have been chewing on going to Sony for quote some time. Question 1: Do you know how well this body will preform with a Adapter for Canon Glass? 2: I shoot photo and Video in one day, how quickly and efficiently can you switch from video settings to photo?

[@WesPerry]

+Ed Runyon 1) Although I don't have first hand experience, from tests of others, this camera shoots adapted glass better than any previous Sony. The newer and shorter the lens, the better it works. Super long glass (300-600mm) many say increases your chance of hunting. With regards to speed, it's going to be faster than many Canons actually are with the native glass (with the exception of maybe the 5Div, 1Dxii). 2) Switching between video and photo is just a matter of turning the top dial. Video specific settings are set in advance and remain set when you return.

[@dontblinkweddings9306]

Thanks so much for the quick reply! I will be taking it into high consideration. I currently use a 5d mark iv for photo's and a EOS M5 for video. but my wife who shoots with me needs an upgrade from her 6d.

[@WesPerry]

+Ed Runyon Word is a new 6Dii is coming out later this summer, but that it's video capabilities will greatly limited.

[@dontblinkweddings9306]

Wes Perry Yes, the refresh is only going to have 1 card slot though, and as wedding photogs it's pretty important to us. obviously there is a lot to consider.

[@DannoHung]

If you're shooting stuff requiring good AF performance, you are going to want native glass. Also, if you're not buying this specific camera for AF performance, I have to wonder if you wouldn't better be served by the next revision of the A7R.

[@MestreMur]

Great review! Maybe, the best one... My question: with this camera, which lens is better (Sony 90f/.2.8 Macro or Sony 100f/.2.8 STF)... For portrait and why not macro! I saw, the Sony Macro is fast enough, sharp, beautiful colors, great IQ and macro too... Sound like a winner with Sony A9... What do you think?

[@WesPerry]

+Gustavo Ulloa Depends on whether you're shooting outside or in studio. In studio, the STF isn't terribly useful, because: A) it costs more B) you need a ton of light (T5.6) C) the bokeh effects are rather lost in a shallow setting with no distant background in studio While outdoors the Macro isn't so useful: A) it's actually a somewhat slow focusing lens compared to other FE lenses B) at f2.8 the bokeh has a nervous quality. It only smoothes out around f3.5 to f4.5. If you're looking for subject isolation and a pleasing background blur, the STF is much better at that.(this is because macro shots are usually taken at higher f stops as the depth of field becomes too shallow, so it's tuned for that use) I Love using the 90 for indoor portraiture, because it is SHAAARP, but outdoors I have to remind myself to keep it in the bag, lest I get bothered by the bokeh in post. All that being said, I personally prefer the 85GM's rendering for outdoor portraiture. I find the out of focus rendition of the STF to look a bit fake (I know, it's real!), so to their each their own ;)

[@johnvandenbroek9753]

Great video Wes ... very informative. I mostly shoot wildlife with my A9 and couldn’t be happier with the results. Only draw back is 7,000.00 Canadian price by the time you add the dreaded HST. ...Looking forward to your next video.

[@WesPerry]

I’ll be producing regularly starting in December. At least if you want another one there are some great sales on right now...a year and a half after I bought mine 😉

[@WoutervanTwillert]

Just decided I am upgrading my Canon 5DIII to this camera!

[@WesPerry]

+Wouter van Twillert Enjoy! (And feel free to use my link in the description! Haha)

[@MikeT-yy3]

Love your review, have a question if I may. I have seen and heard of comments regarding the live view exposure being changed when a flash gun or a hot shoe commander is attached to the Sony A9 etc? I have noticed when photographers are using Off Camera Flash they always switch off the commander on the hot shoe off to evaluate the ambient exposure, then switch the flash back on for the shot. I believe it has something to do with the Setting Effect? not allowing the original live view exposure to be seen. As a wedding photographer using a lot of flash, you may be the ideal person to ask.

[@WesPerry]

Yep, it does that. Used to be easiest to switch the controller off and on, but with latest firmware you can map a button to Live View Setting Effect On/Off so you can just use a button on the camera to toggle it quickly.

[@UltraDoug]

Been shooting weddings for 15 years. For the past few years, I've been using a couple of Nikon D800. I've been wanted to go mirrorless, waiting for something to come close (speed, quality, battery life)........I haven't found it, until now it seems. This is pricey, but that's ok if it suits my workflow. Have you used a D800? or equivalent? Comparisons?.......that aside, great video. You have my subscription and I'm looking forward to more reviews.

[@TheG7thcapo]

Very nice video and camera. I just wish it is more affordable for the average joe like me. Congratulations for having that awesome camera.

[@WesPerry]

+TheG7thcapo Well, if it was more affordable, it would have to be missing many of its features.

[@ojasray1]

would love to see your settings on the sony a9

[@WesPerry]

+Ojas Ray That's actually a good idea for a video. Once I finish editing this wedding and can spit out the other two I currently have in the video pipeline ;)

[@lauriewahlig2819]

Wes Perry have you made that video yet with the new firmware update?

[@WesPerry]

I haven’t! Totally forgot about this. It would have to be a pretty long video. Haha

[@lauriewahlig2819]

Wes Perry even photos of your settings would be great!

[@amitkrupal1234]

Pretty Apt video, sometime less is more. One question since you own A7 Mark 2, I currently use Nikon D3300+18-135+SB700, want to upgrade to full frame, considering A7 II+24-105 F4. Will it be great combination.

[@WesPerry]

Although the a7ii is a little slow in the autofocus dept, it would still be an upgrade in that from the D3300, with a wider focus point spread and eye-af (but only in af-a mode). And the 24-105 is apparently a phenomenal lens. Much better than other manufacturer’s 24-105’s, which are usually designed with “kit lens” quality, the Sony one is designed to be “semi-pro” quality. The only thing you’ll lose is a little reach in the focal length.

[@amitkrupal1234]

I will definitely try A7II on rent on a wedding before buying it. Thanks for the help.

[@WesPerry]

I used to a7ii as a primary camera for about 20 weddings. While it never let me down, it certainly doesn’t hold a candle to the a9 😏 Enjoy!

[@CastanaEleven]

That zero hunting of the 90mm macro lens on the a9 is stunning!! I had terrible hunting issue with that exact lens on my a6500 and was considering getting the a7iii to pair with the 90mm macro. Now I really need to take the a9 into consideration.

[@WesPerry]

The focusing systems are pretty similar between the two (but not the same!). Might as well rent an a7iii and see if it does it for you :)

[@KuangTu]

Very informative review. Thank you. I think this is a fantastic camera body if people shoot photo for living. Or if you have enough cash to spend. I don't, unfortunately. That's why I went for a a7rII. Maybe in the future if the price drops a little bit or if I do need faster focus on people, then I can still grab this camera and use the other one as a back up for its higher resolution.

[@WesPerry]

+KuangTu They're definitely quite different tools. The a7Rii still has overall better image quality, both in pixel count and ISO performance. The a9 is just king of speed and reliability.

[@Fatfaso]

In a perfect world, Sony would give us a 30 mp camera with the same body as the a9 and same AF system, but with a much lower burst rate and a cheaper price. Will it happen? Beats me, but a man can dream...

[@WesPerry]

+Fatfaso Of course lots of people are expecting an a9R with high res, but that's all conjecture at this point. The rapid refresh of the a7 series to the a7ii series got everyone expecting Sony to keep refreshing every year, when that's clearly not going to be the case going forward.

[@robbyjai]

you're a good photo mate...... im a wedding photog too and your stuff is very nice... i shoot with the A7R2 which i love with a passion... wonderfing whether its worth getting the A9

[@WesPerry]

+robbyjai Thanks! That largely depends on your style of shooting. If you shoot fewer, bigger shots, then the a7Rii will still yield better image quality. I deliver a lot of photos, and shoot quickly in a discrete, candid manner for most of the day, so the a9 is more ideal for me.

[@RAWmanART]

great explanation Wes

[@Sergei__v]

THANK YOU! What a great unbiased review from a working professional. I noticed that you use flash in your work, how bad is the shutter lag and how loud is it compared to a7rll. I had a900 and a99. The latter was super laggy with flash and in general shot to shot, so is a7rll. How is a9 in this regard? P.S. I am now shooting with Canon 5Dmk3 and it flies, very little delay. What is your experience? How comfortable are holding it with a flash mounted on it? Can you record the lag through a viewfinder, please? THANK YOU

[@WesPerry]

+Sergei Zhukov It literally has the same shutter as the a7Rii in it. Which is disappointing when the a99ii has such a vastly superior mechanical shutter in it that they could have borrowed instead. Maybe it takes up more space? I'm fine with using it with a flash in the shoe, although I very rarely do so. I'll keep the shutter through viewfinder test in mind. I don't think it matters if you do it through the viewfinder or the screen, though, as they're basically the same thing.

[@MrPhilbautista]

So, when you gonna eat that card?

[@WesPerry]

+philaw123 I'll be working on that video soon enough ;)

[@MMm-hz6hl]

I love watching ur videos Wes..thanks for the amazing content..putting my hands into A9 fingers 🤞..your video helped me lean towards it more..cheers

[@WesPerry]

Wow this is an old one, too! Glad I could help! :)

[@ojasray1]

1. How do i keep my display off - and have it turn on only when i say hit the menu button or review button -- when i am taking photos its fine, since the EV is on - but when i put my camera down - the display turns on -- feel like its a huge waste of battery.... 2. when in af-c is it constantly pulling focus? even when i just put my camera down?

[@WesPerry]

+Ojas Ray 1) Actually the EVF uses more power than the display (counter intuitive, I know), so I wouldn't worry about that first one. I have a button on the back set to shortcut to the display brightness menu so I can quickly turn it up and down. 2) There is a setting in the menu called "prefocus" that you'll want to turn off (if it isn't already). It operates whether in AF-C or AF-S and makes no sense to have on at all. When that's off, it only pulls focus when you tell it to (as it should be).

[@smartwarden]

Very honest review. Thank you !

[@Bullybeef972]

Two years later after this video, Sony Alpha A9 is now $ 3,498 without tax + extras.....awesome!

[@WesPerry]

One of the reasons why I just made a two years later long term review 😉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWqzqXikrrWhn7s

[@Dyeheartxfire]

I NEED it. what about menu access or picture review while buffering ?

[@WesPerry]

+Denes Szakacs I’m hoping that that comes to the a9 through an update as well, but I can’t say that that’s ever been an issue for me. Like ever. With the custom buttons and Function menu set up the way you want it, menu diving just doesn’t happen all that much.

[@jtabares1]

Great review Wes!

[@dopamining7621]

It captured exactly what I wanted, nobody knew I was there, 20fps silent, I push the button and it locks on the nearest eye, etc etc etc. Soon, the photographer won`t even need to be there . . .

[@WesPerry]

+dopamining Maybe so. Best to keep one's options open just in case their field of work becomes automated. The future waits for no man and takes no prisoners ;)

[@ledige9314]

Great review thank you. down to the important facts no bla bla.

[@nynty5]

Great review, I feel the same about a lot of it. I have shoot 2 weddings now. The outdoor midday wedding it did overheat. NO video just images. Also, I am having issue with Lexar 150mbs cards. I get a unable to write error. Thank you!

[@WesPerry]

Sounds like the new firmware update is for you, then! esupport.sony.com/US/p/model-home.pl?mdl=ILCE9&template_id=1&region_id=1&tab=download#/downloadTab

[@WeNeedRealMusic2]

Great stuff here Wes! Thank you for sharing your experiences and knowledge! LOL 'nerd' and 'nose'. I fit the same model! Yes, the touch screen functionality for menus would be great. Perhaps a 'Hey Sonia...' voice recognition is in the future - although that would not be welcome at weddings unless everyone else is talking with Siri or Cortana. Then 'Sonia' might feel neglected. 'Hey Sonia, set AFC and Eye AF on.'

[@stocksy5798]

Thinking of selling the Canon 5D MKIII Few questions for you: Dynamic range compared to MKIII? Shooting with flash and HSS? You mentioned it a bit in the video having to switch to mechanical, do you have any issues connecting wise etc? The size of the camera and button layout looks a little crammed, what's your thoughts? Is it something you just get used to? How do you find the skin tones and AWB? Can you switch touch screen off? As I am not a fan of that at all What's it like looking through the viewfinder stabilization wise? I am really considering selling up all my equipment and switching.. Ultimately I am going to make a decision for my self but some opinions would be great. Thanks.

[@WesPerry]

+Stocksy I see the message now. Canada is currently having a network outage. Which seems an odd thing to be able to say about a place this size 🤔 Dynamic range is well beyond the 5Dmiii, not so much with the mkIV, though. As long as you have a properly compatible flash system, there isn't anything terribly interesting or difficult about it. You just have to remember to disable electronic first curtain shutter when shooting at HSS speeds (or always leave it turned off). DSLR's don't have an electronic first curtain shutter by default like a mirrorless camera, and thus would only be a thing during mirror lock up mode. I definitely think the buttons are just something you get used to. Once their locations are memorized, I don't ever really consider it. Touch screen can be disabled. I'm getting used to using it now, though, and it's functionality will likely be expanded with later firmware updates. When you half press the shutter button, on sensor and in lens stabilization are activated, and everything gets real smooooth. What you see in the viewfinder is the same as what you see on the back screen. (Except higher quality in the viewfinder). Might as well rent one to try it, if such services exist where you are (not so where I am).

[@jojo5544]

Glad to be your 888th subscriber

[@ZoltanF1LH]

Awesome review!

[@tpain525]

you need to charge more for your photography, like ASAP. I'm a wedding photographer and im pretty cheap for many reasons, but with your with AND the camera you just bought you need to up you prices my friend, AT LEAST for $2400 for a full day wedding

[@WesPerry]

+Junior525 I'll get there eventually, but prices depend greatly on the market. The Most expensive photographers in this town (many of whom are better than I) go for around $3000, including a second shooter (which I don't). Beginning in September my prices will go to $2000, and we'll see what happens after that. I've actually only been shooting weddings for 2.5 years, so I'm still working my way up the pricing scale. But thanks for the vote of confidence ;)

[@tpain525]

yes im glad you raised them! gradually is great! it's the same way in my town! but... from what i can see you deserve to be up there my friend! especially for not charging them extra for prints! (thats what i do cause its too much hassle) Keep up the good work because you are going to be KILLing your market with these pictures!

[@WesPerry]

+Junior525 Thanks!

[@JuanLopez-oz9kh]

Will likely buy buy this model when the 2nd version comes out, in 9 month LOL. Price is a big factor, the G lenses (RED) are not cheap either. its close to Fuji GFX50S price... But thanks for your honest opinion and real life usesaged review.

[@WesPerry]

+Juan Lopez 9 months seems pretty unlikely. It's been close to 3 years since the a7ii hit the market and we haven't had a replacement yet, so odds are the a9 will be current for at least 3 years as well. What we Will get are some firmware updates, further down the line. Also, good full frame glass is always expensive 👌🏻

[@ddrnold]

I mainly take pictures of my food and selfies, would the A9 be good camera to buy?

[@WesPerry]

+Arnold Galinato At risk of falling prey to sarcasm, I will suggest this instead: amzn.to/2rJnP0M

[@johnpeterka9762]

Wes, how is the manual shutter speed on the A9? We use light shaping equipment whereby we use the mechanical shutter rather than our electronic. Are there any concerns or comments that you could share? Thank you, JP

[@WesPerry]

+John Peterka Could you be more specific? TD exactly the same as the manual shutter in the a7ii and a7Rii. Not nearly as speedy as the one in the a6500 or a99ii.

[@1vinjeru]

Awesome review

[@Fatfaso]

Hey, Wes. Great review! I'm going to go in a different direction and ask you absolutely nothing about the a9. INSTEAD, I'm going to ask you about your experiences with Sony lenses. I currently own all Canon gear (5D3 + a ton of L primes and zooms), as well as an A7RII with a 55 1.8 and Batis 25. I'm kind-of/sort-of considering switching completely to Sony. However, I'm a little concerned about how well the Sony G Master and G Master-esque (I'm looking at you Sony Zeiss 35 1.4) lenses render. What lenses do you shoot with when using your Sony? I obviously know that you shoot the 90 macro. If you shoot with Sony or Sony/Zeiss "pro" lenses, does it feel front-heavy, and if so, does it start to hurt your hand or just become uncomfortable as the day wears on? Do you have advice on going with the f1.8 options vs the G Master or G Master-eque lenses (e.g. 50 1.4)? Thanks for your reply (assuming you reply)!

[@WesPerry]

+Fatfaso I do use the 35 1.4 quite a bit and am looking at the 85 1.4 as my next lens, as I generally work with a camera on each hip. I love the rendering of the 35, but it's a bit high in CA, and nowhere near as sharp as the 55 and the 90 (but then again, what is? They're two of the sharpest lenses ever made). As far as balance goes, unless you're always shooting one handed, it doesn't really matter. You just get used to a different balance. Everyone says "unbalanced", but what does that even mean? It's just differently balanced.

[@chianghailoh5354]

i have no doubt it is not expensive for pro. Will sony able to sell enough of it from pro alone? What about amateur ? What about beginner? We dun buy camera?

[@WesPerry]

+chianghai Loh I think they will. There were a lot of pros waiting to jump ship for a bunch of simple things like dual card slots, high frame rates and fast autofocus. Probably won't be a lot of beginner/amateur sales, though.

[@michaelanderberg]

Thanks for a great review! You've gained a subscriber! :)

[@fightingmink]

Have you checked out the "brick?" It charges much faster.

[@WesPerry]

+fightingmink Yep. I did talk about it in passing. Nothing remarkable about it (other than its price if you buy a 2nd one. Ha).

[@carlosread5887]

I assume Sony is going to come out pretty soon with the "Mark 2" version of this camera, just like they did with the a7. I hope they fix the issues that you refer to in this video. Thanks for sharing this video!

[@WesPerry]

+Carlos Read That seems pretty unlikely. I doubt we'll see a new one in under 2.5-3 years. Possibly an a9S or R within a year. Most of the real issues in this model can be fixed through firmware. Those that can't aren't issues for me anyway (or for most people). They spent a Lot of money on R&D for this camera, much more than the original a7. That camera was built using the sensor developed for the d610, in a modified RX1 body. The a9 is a totally custom developed sensor in a totally custom built body. They're going to be working hard to recoup all those costs with this model, so the firmware updates will keep coming for a while.

[@carlosread5887]

Hope tou are right, because I am saving for my A9, and I would hate to see Sony come put with a new version of the same camera in a few months time. Thanks again for your video. I had seen several other reporting on this camera, but must weren't wedding photograpers. You have helped me make my decision to buy this camera!

[@WesPerry]

+Carlos Read It's probably best not to dive in to a new piece of electronics these days in the first couple months anyway. There are always bugs to be ironed out first 👌🏻

[@Star-bw3mt]

Nice work.

[@vc6218]

Im just realizing that it has the second knob with the focus settings! Thats major

[@WesPerry]

Some people love it, some people don’t use it much...like me. Haha. I always leave mine on AF-C because it works so well in that mode, even in low light and for macro work. I only use the dial to switch frame rates, 5, 10, 20 fps when needed. It’s nice, but i don’t consider it the “killer feature” of this camera 😉

[@vc6218]

Yes I like to not have to go in the menu as much as possible. I usually shoot in af-s, but maybe now I will feel more comfy with the af-c

[@WesPerry]

Yeah, there’s basically no reason to use AF-S on the a9 👌🏻

[@girydoank]

fantastic review ..!

[@misteroj]

Do you do video too? And have you used the A9 for it? I cant find a real review in videos with the A9 online... Do you know if it has the classic Sony video features like peaking?

[@WesPerry]

+Dino Argentiero It has focus peaking and exposure zebras, but not SLog. I just do hobby video (KZbin), but haven't used this camera for that yet, since I'm largely making videos About it still ;) I don't think Sony intends if for use as a serious video camera, although it does produce good quality with reduced motion effects.

[@JosePintoRibeiro]

Do you use flash during your weddings? Tell me about AF assist like you have on Canon and Nikon?

[@WesPerry]

+Jose Pinto Ribeiro I use off camera flash quite a bit, especially during receptions (Godox 2.4Ghz system). But Sony e-mount cameras don't have focus assist beam compatibility, even with native Sony flashes. This is because their in sensor autofocus points don't see infrared light, so the beams are largely useless. That being said, I have literally had absolutely zero use for a focus assist light with the a9. It can be almost pitch dark, and it has no trouble focusing (at least with the lenses I'm using).

[@stephencutajar2548]

Great review.

[@AndyDavisonPhotographer]

Excellent video, thank you. Can I just ask what flash system you're using for on and off-camera flash? Many thanks. Andy

[@WesPerry]

+Andy Davison I'm using the Godox system. X1T-s trigger, V860ii speedlights and AD200 moonlight/speedlight. They're fantastic, and with their lithium ion batteries, they last forever and recycle like a beast. Check further back in my channel for my reviews and comparisons of those.

[@AndyDavisonPhotographer]

Thanks very much Wes, will do that. Appreciate the reply. Andy

[@juhanyman1802]

Thanks for the video Wes! If you had to choose just one camera for your work - would it be A9 or A7R III? I have a7r iii at the moment and thinking of swapping to A9 as it seems to tick more boxes for my own needs. Wildlife/nature/event photography and some sports all seem to be more suitable for A9.

[@WesPerry]

Apparently I chose the a9 😏 But aside from that I’m trying to decide between an a7Riii, a7iii or another a9 as a second body (which currently is a very tired a7ii).

[@marcromodevivar]

Many thanks for your review, Iám a wedding photographer, I have a Canon 1DX MKII and a 5D MKIV and i also use an A7s for video I found that the MKIV is a little to big files for me (30mpx) so the IDX makes me feel more confortable I want to ask you, do you think this camera can be better than the 1DX MKII? I mean battery life, fast response, focusing...

[@WesPerry]

+Marc Romo de Vivar The battery life is unlikely to be better, unless you use the battery grip, then it would be comparable (the battery in the 1Dx is half the size of the a9 itself). Focusing is as good or better, according to most who have used both. The only thing it would be much slower at would be flash work. The mechanical shutter is much slower than the one in the 1Dxii. But then there's the electronic shutter that is way faster than anything the 1Dxii can do. I was shooting a bride approaching the church the other day at f1.4 1/32,000s. Just try that with a Canon ;) The high noon sun made the photos look rather unflattering, but still. It's something new for sure. Haha.

[@jpmera4]

Hi, thanks for the review, do you still recommend this camera rather than the a9ii in 2021 ? Or is any other better option for weddings? Thanks

[@WesPerry]

That depends on your shooting style. If you’re a natural light shooter, there’s not that much of a reason to pay significantly more for the a9ii. A used a9 can be had for really cheap now, and if you don’t use flash much (requiring mechanical shutter), the camera will last pretty much forever. If you’re big on flash, though, the a9ii bears consideration for sure. The mechanical shutter in the a9 hasn’t aged well both technologically and physically (mine has gotten slower. I’m having doubts about the 500k actuation life).

[@mind1990]

Hi, is there anything you have to do to not have bandings such as downloading specific firmware? I just bough an a9 and I have a big banding when taking photos in both mechanical and electric shutter mode in my house.

[@WesPerry]

Easy fix: get better lightbulbs 😂

[@Robiejan1]

Great video, thanks for the effort!!

[@GaryJahman]

I'm a wedding photographer. You are a wedding photographer. I shoot with Sony. You shoot with Sony. I do reviews (just doing it recently). You are doing reviews. Let's be friends lol Great vid!

[@WesPerry]

Thanks! 😂

[@SydneyAngel88]

hey! I just got the A9 and would love to know how to set up the face recognition/eye AF button on the back. If you have the time to walk me through it in a reply I'd appreciate it so much!

[@WesPerry]

+Sydney Angel You just need to go into the menu to Custom Key (Shoot) and then choose your favourite button (I use the AF-On button, since I don't use back button autofocus), then choose Eye AF in the menu for it. Then from that point on, pressing and holding that button will activate Eye Autofocus. I recommend leaving the camera in AF-C for most human subject photos.

[@WesPerry]

+Sydney Angel Also, face recognition is an option that just appears in the main menus without digging (maybe even in the fn menu as well? Can't quite remember). It's not too hard to find with a bit of scrolling ;)

[@SydneyAngel88]

thank you!

[@MiloLBalls]

So do you think this camera would be good for catching rounds come out of a weapon... I'm a military multimedia specialist, so photography/videography/journalism / & radio is my bread and butter

[@WesPerry]

Not ideal, no. If you’re wanting to actually see the rounds, 20fps isn’t nearly fast enough. Bullets are a whole other ball game. It’s fine for muzzle blasts, which I’ve done on a couple occasions, but actually seeing bullets takes crazy hardware (phantom high speed camera with 1000+ fps).

[@MiloLBalls]

Wes Perry so I shouldn't get this camera? What would you suggest?

[@FAMUCHOLLY]

AGREED. GREAT REVIEW.

[@phelix920]

Great images 👍🏾

[@philipcunio4089]

Thanks for the information!

[@selvinr.monzon7928]

should I wait for the a7 III instead Wes Perry??

[@WesPerry]

+Selvin R. Monzón That's an excellent question. All we have are rumors at this point, though. So any serious decisions probably shouldn't be based on them. Hard to say exactly how many a9 features will or won't be carried through to the "mark iii" line of a7 cameras.

[@Zijspoortje]

How is the startup time after you first turn it on, or after sleep mode of the camera?

[@WesPerry]

+Harald Doedee Most have been saying that it's "way faster" than the a7Rii, etc...but i find it's only marginally faster than its predecessors.

[@pincopallo6]

Did you notice any noise in the shadows when you try to recover them? I do. Lot lot of noise in backlight situation (extreme conditions I know!), even with 100 ISO only. And some occasional banding ...

[@WesPerry]

+pincopallo6 Probably a little less noise than the a7ii, which was pretty clean to begin with. I haven't made a direct comparison test yet. I was assuming that DxO would do a better job at that than me soon enough anyway. I'm not sure what you mean by noise in backlight situations. I didn't notice anything untoward. And I've managed to find the dreaded "red channel banding" in 3 out of the 4000 photos I've taken. And it wasn't visible when not zoomed in on my 5K iMac. So I don't consider that to be an issue in any way.

[@pincopallo6]

if you give me your mail address I'll send you a couple of files where what I'm talking about is pretty clear.

[@WesPerry]

[e-mail]

[@syaketshakil]

nice review

[@maggyfish]

Hi in eye af and you have numerous faces in frame groom friends ect but I want the bride & she isn’t closest to the camera how does it do in that scenario cheers

[@WesPerry]

I would toggle to a point AF and put the point somewhere near her face. You can save faces to the camera for automatic priority, but it doesn’t work amazingly, and especially isn’t effective when faces are smaller in the frame.

[@WesPerry]

(Also, I set one button to switch between wide are and point type autofocus so it’s a very fast switch)

[@diegosolari3101]

Hello, I just want to ask one simple question about an issue that I have only heard mentioning once in all the reviews I have seen on the a9 and I will go straight to the point. Is dust a problem for a mirrorless camera such as this one? Does changing lenses frequently lead to - as inevitably does for any DSLR camera - a nitoceable build up of dust on the sensor since there s nothing between the lens and the sensor?

[@WesPerry]

+Diego Solari I suspect that you don’t hear about it much because most people don’t have an issue with it. After 10 weddings with the a9, and lots of lens changes, I think I might have one piece of very small dust on the sensor. It can only be seen in pictures where my aperture is smaller than f7.1 (which doesn’t happen very often). On my a7ii, which I’ve been to about 20 weddings with, I think I have a couple specks of similarly inconsequential size. I’ll be sending them to Sony Pro Support sometime this winter for cleaning regardless. I’m pretty careful when changing lenses. Always make sure to turn off the camera and wait a couple seconds for the sensor to discharge, never leave the body exposed for longer than necessary. Before and after events, and sometimes in between during downtime I use a rocket blower on the sensor and lenses, which I think prevents anything much from building up if it does get in there.

[@diegosolari3101]

Thank you for the extraordinarily fast reply :D that's truly appreciated. The video I was referring to was from Tyler Stalman, I won't link it, if people want to see it they can look it up, but it's fair to point out it wasn't something that was made up and it just made me curious. First hand reviews probably wouldn't have the chance to address the issue if there was one. So thank you again for clearing that up for me.

[@WesPerry]

+Diego Solari I just rewatched his video (I’ve seen it before) and a couple comments: The speck of dust he showed as a previous issue is large enough to be seen on the sensor with the naked eye. Maybe I’m more cautious than anyone should be expected to be, but I check my sensor for dust visually a Lot. Like every 2nd or 3rd time I change lenses. Maybe he’s just so used to not caring at all that he needs to change his workflow a bit? Also, the video clip he showed was shot at a very narrow aperture, and that might be his thing, which would make sensor dust a much bigger problem for him. I rarely shoot anything narrower than f2.8, so it takes much larger and more persistent dust to be of any issue for me.