Sony changed the mirrorless camera game when they decided to get into the field way before anyone in 2014. The company had a unique vision, and by simply adapting a different format, it began to excel in a very short period of time. Today, Sony is considered the most sought-after brand for mirrorless technology, while its market share reaping great benefits. We look at six exceptional cameras launched by the company over the past decade to see how far they have come. If you are someone just beginning their journey, some of these devices are still exceptional options to kick-start your career.
Sony A7R Mk III
When it was launched, we called the Sony a7r III the camera that so many of us dreamed of. To this day, we keep one around the offices for really good reasons. It’s a great balance of resolution, autofocus speed, performance, and it was also one of the first Sony cameras to gain their AI technology via a firmware update. To boot, it’s much smaller than so many of their other cameras while still delivering incredible image quality.
The second iteration in Sony’s a7R lineup, the Mk II, has everything one needs. It boasts a 42MP full-frame Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor, internal UHD 4K video abilities, 5-axis image stabilization, 399 phase-detect AF points, and 5 fps of continuous burst rate. Some of its pros include Wi-Fi, the best image quality, very good high ISO results, RAW file versatility, great ergonomics, and one of the fastest autofocus systems. Although its weather sealing could have been better, the a7R Mk II is a steal-worthy deal for anyone.
Sony A7S Mk II
This a7S lineup is aimed at hybrid shooters who want the best video and photo quality. However, unlike the a7R, the a7S Mk II does not come with extra resolution. It boasts a 12.2MP full-frame sensor, UHD 4K/30 & 1080p/120 video recording, S-Log3 Gamma and Display assist function, 169 AF points, and 5-axis stabilization. Furthermore, it is slightly priced lower and comes with an incredibly high ISO performance. It also offers a great dynamic range, uncompressed RAW photo options, and varied video options. If you are someone who needs better low-light [performance for both video and stills, then this camera is a very reliable option.
Sony A99 II
The only Sony DSLR (actually a DSLT, because of the translucent mirror) on the list, the a99 II features a 42.4MP full frame Exmor R CMOS sensor, 4D FOCUS with 79 hybrid cross AF points, GPS, 12fps shooting speed, and can shoot 4K videos. Some of it pros include incredible focus, versatile RAW file, good ergonomics, and one of the best battery life on Sony cameras. This device has amazing features, which will be like by high-end enthusiast and the semi-professional.
Sony A9
This camera is designed to resemble the Canon 1DX Mk II and Nikon D5. In other words, it offers impressive speed, which is a must for photojournalists and sports photographers. The Sony a9 houses a 24MP full-frame CMOS stacked sensor and can shoot 20fps with autofocus continuously. As seen above, before this, Sony cameras only offered a 5fps continuous drive mode. Some other impressive features include 1/32000 shutter speed, 693 autofocus points, AF tracking for over 200 RAW files, no viewfinder blackout, and a completely silent shutter that is also vibration-free. The camera also offers better battery life, ergonomics, and several features perfect for a professional.
Sony a6100
One of the smallest Sony cameras, the a6100 is an APS-C device that has a 24.2MP sensor, 14-bit RAW, 425 focus points, 11 fps burst rate, and weighs only 396g. It also comes with real-time Eye AF and Animal Eye AF, great tracking capabilities, very good overall image quality, decent battery life, and a flip-up screen for selfies. Furthermore, all of this at a very cheap price. This device is perfect for anyone stepping away from their smartphones and want something that small and lightweight. With a pancake lens, you get yourself a great street photography camera too.
Sony a1
One of the most expensive and technologically advanced camera is the Sony a1. Launched in 2019, the device offered 50.1-MP 35 mm full-frame stacked CMOS sensor, 30fps continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking, and comes with a new a new Birding AF mode. The electronic viewfinder has 9.44 million dot resolution with a refresh rate of 240fps, it can shoot 8K video, and the battery life is excellent. Some of its pros include great image quality and details, overall autofocus performance, and excellent build quality. However, it comes with a hefty price tag, and it only makes sense for professionals who need absolute resolution and power to go for it.