San Diego, CA—Sony Electronics just took the wraps off the Sony Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R compact, full-frame interchangeable-lens cameras (ILC). They were introduced along with the new FE 16–35mm f/2.8 GM II full-frame G Master wide-angle zoom lens.
The Alpha 7C II (model ILCE- 7CM2) employs a full-frame image sensor with 33 effective megapixels as well as multimedia functions. The second-generation version of the Alpha 7C—which was heralded as a solution for various shooting scenarios, such as travel and street photography—the 7C II has a more mobile form factor. The second-gen ILC measures 4.9×2.8×2.5 inches and weighs 18.1 ounces (with battery/memory card).
Moreover, the Alpha 7C R (ILCE-7CR ) boasts the high-resolution and gradation performance of a full-size image sensor with approximately 61 megapixels. Plus, it does so in a body similar in size and weight to the Alpha 7C II (18.2 oz). In addition to snapshots, the portable 7C R can capture a variety of image genres, such as portrait, wildlife and landscape photography.
“At Sony, we’re committed to continually raising the bar and elevating standards for content creators. With the introduction of the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R models, we’re offering an innovative solution that serves creators in both photography and videography. This fresh addition to their toolkit ensures top-tier imagery and visual performance across our state-of-the-art imaging devices. By fusing advanced technology with user-friendly design, we’re empowering content creators to realize their artistic vision like never before,” said Yang Cheng, vice president, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics.
Sony Alpha 7C II & Alpha 7C R Details
Sony says the two new cameras meet the needs of content creators on the go who are looking for a combination of compact size and high imaging performance in their devices.
Furthermore, both new models incorporate the same AI-processing unit and Bionz XR processor used in Sony’s newest ILCs, such as the Alpha 7R V and Alpha 6700. In addition, their Real-time Recognition AF technology recognizes a variety of subjects with accuracy. Plus, 5-axis in-body image stabilization provides a 7-step shooting advantage when capturing stills.
As for video features, both support 4:2:2 10-bit video recording up to 4K 60p as well as Sony’s S- Cinetone color science for cinematic video. In addition, they provide active mode in-body image stabilization; AI-based auto-framing; and digital-audio interface support.
Sony Alpha 7C II Key Specs
The Alpha 7C II features a full-frame, back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor with 33 megapixels and the latest Bionz XR processing engine. For capturing either still images or movies, you can enjoy quality capture in various scenarios, such as travel and daily snapshots.
Moreover, compared to the Alpha 7 IV—which measures approximately 5.1×3.8×3.2 inches and weighs 1.5 pounds—the Alpha 7C II is approximately 22% lighter and has approximately 45% less volume. Additionally, its standard ISO sensitivity settings range from 100 to 51,200 for both still images and movies. Furthermore, those settings can expand from ISO 50 to 204,800 for still images, to enable noise-free shooting.
Sony Alpha 7C R Key Specs
The Alpha 7C R employs a 61MP, full-frame, back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor and the latest Bionz XR processor to achieve high-res, high-def imaging performance. Further, its Pixel Shift Multi Shooting technology takes multiple images and combines them on a PC to create an ultrahigh-resolution image.
What’s more, compared to the Alpha 7R V—which is 5.3×3.9×3.3 inches and weighs 1.6 pounds, the more portable Alpha 7C R is 29% lighter and has 53% less volume. Its native ISO sensitivity range of 100–32,000 for still images and movies expands from ISO 50 to 102,400 for still images. In addition, with 7-step optical, 5-axis in-body IS, the camera can detect and correct even slight blurring at the 1-pixel level.
Plus, by combining Sony’s GP-X2 grip extension that’s included with the Alpha 7C R (not 7C II), you can shoot with a more stable hold, even for long periods of time or when using a telephoto lens.
Shared Features
Both new ILCs are easier to handle and carry, as they have a more compact size and weight for added mobility. In addition, Sony adds that when you combine either of them with the FE 16–35mm f/2.8 GM II lens announced today, they achieve “the excellent image expression and high-speed AF that are unique to the G Master series, with the brightness of f/2.8 at full zoom range.”
Furthermore, the new ILCs offer autofocus performance with improved subject recognition thanks to built-in AI processing units. For example, when taking a picture of a person, even if the subject strikes a complicated pose or the face is hidden, human-pose estimation tech can capture and track the subject with more accuracy. Plus, beyond the existing tracking capabilities for people and animals found in the Alpha 7C series, the new ILCs can recognize birds, insects, cars, trains, as well as airplanes as subjects.
Moreover, the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R condense high-res, detailed video data equivalent to 7K and 6K, respectively, to output 4K video. And they both use S-Log3, which supports a wide latitude of 14+ stops to render richer gradation with little overexposure and underexposure, even in contrasty scenes. Also, in log shooting mode, the LUT imported by the user is displayed on the camera monitor image. Consequently, you can shoot while checking the finished image in postproduction.
In addition, the cameras also employ Sony’s S-Cinetone. This feature can create a cinematic look straight out of the camera without post-processing. Based on Sony’s Cinema Line technology, S-Cinetone delivers more natural mid tones that are essential to natural skin color. Plus, a creative look function lets you change the look and feel of video and still images.
Additional Features
The cameras also provide a touch-operable, vari-angle LCD monitor. It offers intuitive operation with the latest touch menu. In addition to the new front dial that allows you to assign favorite functions, the still image/movie/S&Q switch dial and an XGA high-res viewfinder make the cameras easier to operate.
In terms of connectivity, the ILCs are compatible with the Sony Creators’ smartphone app. The app uploads videos and still images taken with the cameras to a cloud service. It also enables remote camera operation and image transfer from the cameras to mobile devices.
The cameras are also environmentally friendly. In the past 11 years, Sony has replaced approximately 395 tons of virgin plastic with recycled plastic in digital cameras and digital video cameras. Sony used recycled materials, including SORPLAS, for the camera bodies. As a result, Sony has reduced their environmental impact.
Furthermore, the cameras incorporate Sony’s screen reader function that reads menus and video playback screens aloud to assist operations. Complementing this is a new menu magnify display function to support the creative activities of a variety of creators.
The Sony Alpha 7C II will release in fall 2023. Camera only, it will have a suggested retail price of $2,199.99. Kitted with a 28–60mm lens, its SRP is $2,499.99.
The Sony Alpha 7C R will also reach retail in fall 2023. SRP camera only: $2,999.99.
Additionally, the new GP-X2 extension, with a fall 2023 launch, will have an SRP of $159.99.
