Sony A99 Field Test with NEX-VG900 Preview

The A99 is Sony's new flagship, with the SLT design promising amazing autofocus. To test this, Chris Niccolls from The Camera Store went to Wild Rose Motocross Park to see how the stills and video stack up.
Also this episode, Jordan Drake takes a quick look at the Sony VG900, the first full frame camcorder.
Shot and Edited by Jordan Drake
Filmed on the Sony FS700

[@supermanwhereareyounow3081]

It's a great ff camera, very innovative and thinking about going to A99 for f.f.Love the SLT because you'll know in real time how your photo will look like before clicking the button. Gone are the days where you must guess exposures, wb, etc, those will be a relic of the past so that one can concentrate on the photo rather than thinking about wb, exposures etc.

[@skygon888]

It is good to see reviews that do not bias... but only comments, critics based on the technology, quality of camera and lens... nice work, chris and jordan !

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Absolutely! We didn't receive a pre-production unit, so we'll wait for the finished camera. Then we can really test the image quality. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Absolutely. Joby makes a good that also gives you a sync for Non-Sony flash units. There's a bunch of other third party options available. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@batboobie]

Once again, great review. Your passion for photography really shines through!! Keep em coming!!

[@QuickQuips]

Wow, that focus limiting feature is amazing. I cannot count how many frustrating and missed moments happened when my lens decided to try infinity to 0 and back again.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Since there was no RAW conversion software available, and the firmware on our camera was VERY early, we don't know yet how the high ISO performance is. I'm sure samples will start circulating on the web very soon though. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

It's even better now with the S-Log upgrade! You can see the improvements in our Olympus E-M1 video. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Our time with both cameras was extremely brief, in fact, due to scheduling issues, the VG900 footage here was all capture within about 15 minutes of filming. As well, our prototype was barely functioning, many settings were blocked and histograms, peaking, and zebras did not yet function. I would not be comfortable rating the images from the VG900 until I see a production version, as image processing is one of the most important facets of image quality. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Canon lenses are compatible with aperture control and IS using a Metabones EF-NEX adaptor. For using Nikon glass, Chris and I use the Novoflex F-NEX Adaptor. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

It looks like it could work with any Sony camera with the new hotshoe, but I haven't had a chance to confirm that. If I'm right, it would also work on the Sony RX1 and NEX-6. Jordan@ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

We'll be back! We had a great time shooting at the track! Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Sony's working some sort of wizardry in their 24mbps AVCHD. The image is very stable with little motion artifacting. And unlike the Canons, if you needs a higher data rate, you get a clean HDMI with a better colour space. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

I wanted to, but we ran out of time. I'll definitely test in the near future. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Too early to make a definitive statement, but to my eye it's quite comparable to the FS100, though we were unable to test it in low light. It certainly has more rolling shutter than either camera. The FS700 still has quite a bit more dynamic range. I'll look into it more when we get production cameras. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

While I was unable to test it, the Metabones adaptor should work great with the VG900. I'll test this when I get a production unit. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

The files should be identical, though the lack of a mirror means the VG900 should have slightly cleaner high ISO images. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Nothing for the A99, but there are a few adaptors out there for the VG900, the Metabones seem to be the most popular. No AF, but aperture control and IS work. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@stavrosk.2868]

2024.....and am still using the a99. Still very happy.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Noise was very well controlled, much better than the A77. Now remember, this was only judged by looking at JPEGs from a pre-production camera. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@MATTDALOR1AN]

You guys are amazing. So informative within the shortest amount of time. Thank you

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

We're taking pre-orders now on our website or just give us a call to be added to the waiting list. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Thanks! We have a couple of video camera reviews coming up soon for a couple very high profile cameras. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@Superbustr]

That is great to know, and thank you for replying back to me since information about the video recording capabilities of the a99 is really limited at this moment.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Of course those are better cameras in every other respect. I was just saying that as far as sensor size bragging rights, nothing is bigger than the VG900 sensor. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

The VG900 will only autofocus with Sony NEX & A mount lenses. Nikon lenses will be manual focus only. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

D600 is damned close to the D800 in our testing, and I'm pretty sure the A99 uses the same sensor. My money's on dynamic range very similar to the D800. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Yes, as long as they have an SSM motor. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

It wasn't on our pre-production camera, but very few of the menus worked on that one. I'll update this space as I hear more. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@MonteOlsen]

Great views as usual. I am a Nikon guy who didn't think manufacturers could top the 800, but it looks like Sony has. The video camera also produces stunning results.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Of course we know the Alexa and Reds are much better camera. I was just referring to the endless 'my sensor is bigger than yours' debates that have been going on since the 5D MK II hit. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@shullln]

Well that's the beauty of e-mount. With the 18mm registration distance, you can put any lens on it you'd like via an adapter. You just have to manually focus. The LA-EA3 simply gives you AF for A mount lenses.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

It seemed very well controlled, but with our limited time I was unable to test this properly. Also, our cameras were very early pre-production. I'll update this comment when we see production copies. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@Vicarium]

Mike Kobal has a cheap, easy work-around for the A77 auto focus while doing video. Basically you lock your frame rate with your shutter speed and use a varifilter to control the exposure. Works great and I imagine it would work the same for the A99. Being an (sometimes ostracized) Alpha shooter, I'm glad I waited for this this FF!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

As good as the A99. Maybe a little better in low light since no light is lost to the translucent mirror. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@K0BLR]

You mention for the VG900 that you could use any full frame lens. Can you use canon lenses on there? What type of an adapter Would work with the NIkon lenses? just curious. Ben

[@vandenkevin]

You guys always get this new gear so early! I like the "AF-range feature" on this A99.. Can't wait to see your field test with the RX1..

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

They're different types of cameras. The 1DX is a much faster shooter, although focus is quite comparable on both of them. The Sony has much more flexibility as a video camera, but I'll have to wait for a production model to see how the quality compares. Of course, the higher megapixel count of the Sony means you will resolve more detail. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@LeDrummerDu88]

THIS CAMERA SHOULD BE A BEAAAASSTTTT !!!!!!!!!! THE SONY A77 WAS ALREADY SO GREAT, SO THE SAME IN FULLFRAME... OMG

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Sony Zeiss 16-35mm F2.8, 24-70mm F2.8, 24mm F2, Sony 70-200 F2.8, Sony 100mm F2.8. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

For a Sony DSLR. We should have been more clear. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@tonki5D2]

thx. another great review. highly informative. one question though. given that the Leica M now has video features, what's your experience shooting video with Leica M lenses? how's the focusing comparing to, say, power zoom?

[@svabodafilms]

i love your reviews guys. other comments mentioned DRTV, so i have to tell my opinion. lately i find your reviews more useful then DRTV that try to be funny more then useful. you give me all the information i need. i will be glad to see your reviews for the new canon 6d when it will be able. keep up the great job!!!!!!!

[@Guccimanggg]

this was really eye opening. I as well would also really like to see an A99 full review and comparisons.

[@arnrna]

Great review as usual! Keep up the good work. Looking forward to your NEX-6 review.

[@designSentry]

looks like sony is encouraged by the huge success of nex series, really pushing innovating stuff now

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

It's coming.

[@RagingSonic666]

Sorry, but i have to correct you this time: The Sony SLT´s ain`t no SLR according the fact that the R in SLR stands fpr REFLEX. In a SLT the (semitransculent) mirror is fix - nothing reflexing. But thats the only thing I found to complain about! Great work. Thank you guys!

[@ScottJWaldron]

The A99 looks like a solid option.

[@ZachAshcraft]

Great preview. Would love to see some more varied shots in the future

[@vaclav_mach]

I've already asked, see page 5 or more for the reply: "I wanted to, but we ran out of time. I'll definitely test in the near future. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV"

[@MrBlaarghh]

I'm always intrigued by Sony's SLTs but I want to see studio photos and video taken with the camera. Every preview or review of the SLTs seems to focus on outdoor action and how they can take multiple frames. I understand thats a big draw to the camera and worth mentioning and that there are time constraints when it comes to previews but I would like to see some composed shots in different environments. The VG900 looks very promising though! Thanks for the preview.

[@Themayseffect]

very good double review! cant wait for all the nikon and canon fanboys start to hate on this when every sony user with these start to blow there socks off. Sony have been putting out great products as of lately.

[@CodyTolmen]

You guys rock! Just pre ordered this morn! Can't wait :)

[@BeNiceClearYourIce]

Definitely much much better video camera!! The Sony FS700 is amazing! I wonder how the NEX-VG900 compares to the FS700?

[@visioneer32]

The A99 will ship with an adaptor so you can use your existing Sony flash, hope this helps

[@DanielHunt]

Another great video. Keep up the good work!

[@visioneer32]

The A99 will shoot 6 FPS Full Frame or 10 FPS with same Crop factor as A77 so you get the best of both worlds, hope this helps

[@2legit2quitz]

No ND filters are a big hassle! When you have various primes you have to source different ND threads or step downs and 4x4 matte rigs is added weight. We need ND's under 3K built in at Full frame :)

[@ananonchan]

My entry-level A37 does 5.5 FPS burst rate in RAW format. You'd think think the A99 would be a more significant upgrade in burst mode.

[@g29er]

I love this guy's reviews.

[@chann228]

Keep up the good work guys. With DRTV going a bit Top Gear, at least you still concentrate on the equipment. Will you be doing a review on the RX1?

[@basstheangelo]

I'm sold. I'm buying one. Thanks for the review.

[@apriliafan]

best review from the a99

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

I screwed up. My monitor was in dire need of getting re calibrated. Stay tuned next week for videos with normal looking skin tones! Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@casablancamicasa]

the lens for the sony camera doesn't come with any power zoom but the Panasonic one (4/3) does with some of the lens.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Different aesthetic. The Canon gives you all that good stuff, but it won't give you shallow depth of field or interchangeable lenses. Win some, lose some. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@nicolasrivera5310]

Chris Niccolls, thank you for this review. Now that you have tried the Nikon D600, and this both are in the same price range with very close features. what is you opinion between the two regarding photos and video? thank you!.

[@ThatCanonGuysReviews]

Pretty nice looking camera!

[@shullln]

A note not mentioned in the video, the 102 AF on sensor points only work with the following lenses: 24-70mm f/2.8 CZ, 28-75mm f/2.8 SAM, 50mm f/1.4 current design, 70-200mm f/2.8 SSM, the new 300mm f/2.8 G SSM II, and the new 500mm f/4 G SSM. Kinda kills the concept...

[@photorocket4550]

In 2021 you can still get both of these cameras new on ebay for over $3000.

[@kishascape]

Yeah the thing people don't get about eBay is what you're seeing there is the ones that don't sell. Those are also open box, not new. The common used price is $750 dollars for one in decent condition, and very well worth it I might add. I really love this camera more than the mark 2 version and it's clean up to ISO 12,800 and even useably still at 25,600 with not too noticeable noise. Still a great lovely workhorse even today.

[@MutingSociety]

I love these videos, always really informative and helpful regardless of whether or not i'm interested in buying the product in question.

[@badlakan]

that camera looks really good.

[@sorjai1988]

Thanks for the great video, really looking forward to this camera!! When will you guys be able to take pre-order for this? And any idea if the Canadian price would be higher than $2800?

[@Nikonfanboy1982]

Great review, thank you so much! I cannot believe I am going to say this, but I am going to be keeping an eye out for the new sony stuff..

[@Superbustr]

I think this camera was made to be a direct competitor to the 5d mark 3 camera for video and stills

[@Rationalific]

Great review(s)! Sony is really looking good!

[@photographerjonathan]

I didn't hear you mention a Canon lens adapter for the VG900, do they have one ? and how much is it going to cost ? I am also looking forward to a review of the new Sony full frame mirrorless camera, thanks

[@mp4podcastDOTcom]

Can the NEX-VG900 shoot a flat profile? Also how is moire and aliasing on both the Sony A99 and NEX-VG900? Video the great videos coming loving watch these reviews:)

[@TheScaryfluff]

Guys, Nikon D600?? I love your show I think it's very balanced so I can't wait to see your review

[@pappaal]

Hey guys great review. Quick question. Is the vg900 crippled with the missing menu on the vg20. If you don't know what I mean the vg20 was missing the ability to change contrast sharpness etc..... Is that an option now????

[@killazx9]

Can you guys do a video of shooting the VG900 with Leica M lenses? I would love to see how the images come out in full frame compared to the M9. Thx!

[@Megavoltt]

Nice review.I'd like to see the iso performance as well

[@c2thew]

yay for finally dumping the minolta hotshoe. Now pros can actually use the hotshoe with pocketwizards, cybersyncs, youngnuos, etc... Smartest implementation sony has done so far.

[@TwilightIndustries]

Hey guys, love the reviews. Would you recommend an A99 over a 60D or GH2 for a semi-pro upgrading from an SD VX2100 and looking to get into the world of dSLR?

[@dawfurby]

Definetly look at the Yongnuo line of flashes, especially the 560ii. They have everything the Canon 580EX's have for about 1/3 the price or less. A new one can go for about 100 bucks. Also look at the sunpack PZ40X (or 42x if you can find one), which have a back LCD and aGN of 42. Not as powerful as a Yongnuo 560ii, but its still just as good.

[@macht4turbo]

I love you Camerastore.

[@mbravos]

Do the EVF provide full-time live-view during high-speed continuous shooting? or there is another explanation for the reduction in the maximum frame-rates compared to the A77?

[@MakeMyDayVideo]

Which model of Fader ND filter were you using? And will it fit with the Lens hood on along with the ND filter? Also, what are the recording times on the types of media you can use? It's not like start stop at 12 minutes (DSLR fashion) then go again is it? Thanks

[@floridatvfilmcrews]

can you tell me what the grip looks like up close, basic rule of shooting if you show something small give us a close up. Great video but would like to see what kind of grip you used for the audio mount.

[@AndreeMarkefors]

Am I correct to assume that raw photos from the VG900 should be exactly the same as those from the A99, all other things similar? Or is the circuitry different enough to substantially differentiate the two files?

[@mahamza86]

Sorry my bad, I meant RX1, the Full frame compact :) Still awesome videos

[@kronosg13]

So there is no significant differences between the A99 and the NEX-VG900..only thing that changes is basicly, the shape and ergonomics, but feature wise are the same! Correct?

[@Rehab34]

Have you've done any low light tests with the VG900? And if so, how does it compare to the low light/noise performance of an FS100 or a 5D III?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Nope. Sony FS700. Much better than any Canon DSLR. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@alexpho]

Will the A99 accept the FMU flash drive without any limitation in frame rate or format?

[@tommyleehog]

Only complaint is they didn't bother to put a focus motor in the adapter for the VG900... I was sold on it until I noticed that... my Alpha/minolta AF lenses would be worthless... Not sure if the 99 has the motor or not, if it does it might be a better option than the VG900

[@vaclav_mach]

Will you try M-mount lenses on VG900 in the future? I would be quite interested if it's possible to use it without much vignetting and color fringing (I'm thinking of the FF NEX / poor man's Leica) ... Thanks!

[@visioneer32]

The A99 will shoot 6 FPS Full Frame or 10 FPS with same crop factor as the A77 so you get the best of both worlds. Hope this helps

[@AntonisK]

the VG900 has af with the LA-EA3 on a mount lenses? thats what said in 11:07