San Diego, CA—Sony Electronics introduced three additions to its imaging lineup: the Sony Alpha 7C full-frame camera (model ILCE-7C); the FE 28–60mm f/4–5.6 (SEL2860) zoom lens and the HVL-F28RM flash.
Sony is billing the Alpha 7C as the world’s smallest and lightest full-frame body with an optical in-body image stabilization mechanism. The interchangeable-lens camera (ILC) employs an advanced AF (autofocus) system as well as 4K video capabilities. Moreover, when paired with Sony’s smallest and lightest standard zoom lens, the FE 28–60mm f/4–5.6, the combination delivers portability with the power of full-frame imaging.
In addition, the new HVL-F28RM compact flash allows users to broaden their photo expressions. It boasts an intelligent light intensity control linked to a camera’s face detection functionality.
“We are committed to creating the best tools possible, based on the needs of our customers,” said Neal Manowitz, deputy president of Imaging Products and Solutions Americas, Sony Electronics. “The new Alpha 7C camera and FE 28–60mm f/4–5.6 zoom lens pack many of our most advanced imaging technologies in a brand new design that is the smallest and lightest full-frame camera and lens system in the world. This opens up a new world of possibilities for creators, giving them the uncompromised power of a full-frame system in the palm of their hand.”
Sony Alpha 7C Key Specs
The Alpha 7C combines Sony’s full-frame image quality, AF capabilities and video shooting functions in a light, compact body. It employs a 24.2MP, 35mm full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor and Bionz X image processor. Consequently, it offers high sensitivity and resolution, 15-stop wide dynamic range(stills) and high-speed image processing.
Measuring 4.9×2.8×2.2 inches and weighing 18 ounces with battery and memory card, the Alpha 7C is similar in size and weight to an APS-C camera. It achieves its diminutive dimensions due to upgraded 5-axis in-body stabilization and shutter units, as well as magnesium alloy monocoque construction.
The Alpha 7C provides a 5-step stabilization effect that allows for shooting snaps without a tripod. Moreover, despite the compact body, its high-capacity NP-FZ100 battery affords enough power for long shooting durations and to capture 740 images when using the LCD monitor; 680 images when using the viewfinder.
In addition, producing low noise, the camera is a solution for shooting everyday photography and movies, such as nature, portraits, sports and street photography. Its standard ISO settings extend to 51,200 and expand from ISO 50 to 204,800 for low-light capture. The camera also supports 16-bit processing and 14-bit RAW output.
The ILC also boasts 10-frames-per-sec continuous shooting with AF/AE (autoexposure) by using its newly developed shutter unit and refined processing system. It is also possible to shoot continuously at 8 fps in live view mode, with minimal viewfinder/monitor display lag.
In addition, the ILC permits photographers to capture 223 JPEG images, 115 compressed RAW images or 45 uncompressed RAW images in one continuous burst. And it achieves reliable AF precision in light down to EV-4.
Autofocus System
Furthermore, the Alpha 7C’s Real-time Tracking technology uses AI-driven functions to maintain focus automatically while the shutter button is half-pressed. “Tracking on + AF-on” is also now assignable to a custom key; users can activate it at once while the AF-on button is pressed.
What’s more, photographers can specify the intended subject by touching it on the monitor when touch tracking is turned on via the menu; plus, it is available for both stills and movies. Additional AF functions comprise Real-time Eye AF tech for humans and animals. When using real-time tracking while face/eye priority AF is on, a human subject’s eyes and face are detected and locked on in real-time. 
The system employs 693 focal-plane phase-detection AF points covering approximately 93% of the image area; an additional 425 contrast-detection points also help ensure reliable focus, even in busy environments.
Video Capabilities
Notably, full-frame full-pixel readout without pixel binning makes it possible to capture more than twice the amount of data required for 4K video (3,840×2,160). The camera oversamples the data to produce 4K footage with detail and depth. In addition, the Alpha 7C supports HDR (HLG) and S-Log/S-Gamut profiles; slow & quick motion video; as well as high-speed Full HD recording at 120 fps.
Furthermore, Real-time Eye AF (human) technology is operable during video shooting. The videographer can concentrate on content rather than focus operation because the eye is automatically tracked. Users can also customize the AF transition speed in seven settings and AF subject shift sensitivity in five settings. Touch tracking functionality is also available for movie shooting.
To complement its video capabilities, Sony gave the Alpha 7C a digital audio interface. Added to the camera’s multi-interface shoe, it connects the ECM-B1M shotgun microphone or XLR-K3M XLR adapter kit to input digital audio signals directly to the shoe for clearer audio recordings. 
Headphone and microphone jacks are also provided to monitor recorded sound. In addition, metadata attached to movie footage shot vertically on the camera enables footage transfer to a smart device to be replayed and edited in the vertical position.
Additional Features
The Alpha 7C has a side-opening vari-angle LCD monitor to record selfies, overhead shots or low ground-level shots. Moreover, the “movie” button is positioned on the top of the camera; this makes it easier to operate while recording in selfie mode.
A 3.0-type touch panel LCD monitor employs approximately 921K dots for visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. It also supports touch focus, tracking and shutter operations. For finer, more natural detail, the ILC also has a high-quality view mode. The camera also features a 2.35M-dot OLED Tru-Finder electronic viewfinder.
Other features include Fn button customization; dust and moisture resistance; Wi-Fi-compatible wireless communication functions (2.4GHz/5GHz); and a USB Type-C connector that supports SuperSpeed USB 5Gbps (USB 3.2).
The Sony Alpha 7C will reach retail in October. It will sell for $1,799.99. In addition, a kit comprising the Alpha 7C compact full-frame camera and the Sony FE 28–60mm f/4–5.6 zoom lens will ship in late October. It will retail for $2,099.99.
