While the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 with its 20.2-megapixel 1-inch BSI CMOS sensor and 24-200mm Zeiss lens was a surprise, the announcement of the Sony Alpha 7 and 7R (previously referred to as the A73) are no shocker as we’ve been gradually updating you with leaked information. Now, Sony has officially unveiled the two mirrorless full-frame DSLR cameras with the A7 flagship model packing a 36.3-megapixel image sensor, helping Sony reach a new audience. After the jump, lets talk details.

The first of the two mirrorless full-frame cameras from Sony is the Alpha A7 which packs a 24.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor while its bigger sibling, the Alpha A7R features a 36.3-megapixel sensor without a low-pass filter. Both models include a  a new BIONZ X processor, allowing for 14-bit RAW, a 25,600 top ISO, and  improved area-specific noise reduction.

Like the RX10, both models are built on a magnesium-alloy body that is dust and moisture-resistant. Word of caution, moisture-resistanst is completely different than water-proof. Sony has also made shooting with both full-frame cameras a breeze by including a  3-inch 1.23M-dot LCD that tilts up 84 degrees and down 45 degrees like the NEX line. Those shooting outdoors in extra bright environments will also be pleased about the camera’s built-in super-sharp XGA OLED electronic viewfinder with accurate depth-of-field reproduction and a manual-focus zoom function.

While both models share many traits with the NEX line, unlike previous rumors, Sony is dropping the NEX title from the line, instead keeping purely to the Alpha brand. The A7 and A7R despite their full-frame are built on a footprint no bigger than the NEX line, making them quite nimble compared to traditional DSLR cameras. Make no mistake though as the Sony Alpha 7 and Alpha 7R give you everything a DSLR has to offer and more. According to Mike Kahn from Sony:

 Both cameras feature full customization and control to meet the needs of the most demanding photographers. There are 9 different customizable buttons and 46 assignable functions that can be adjusted based on shooting preferences, including fully customizable front and back dials, a rear control wheel and an exposure compensation dial. Users can preview all changes to photographic settings in real-time on the high-contrast, 2.4 million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder or the high-resolution tiltable 3. 

Starting with the Sony Alpha 7, the camera is able to capture consecutive shots at 5 fps while the Sony Alpha 7R is able to capture consecutive shots at 4 fps. Keep in mind that you cannot compare these numbers to a traditional digital shot camera and instead, you’ll need to compare them to other full-frame cameras for proper analysis. Both models are also capable of  superior auto-focus with Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF which gives the A7 a 117 phase and 25 contrast-detect points while the 7R only includes the 25 contrast-detect autofocus points.

Again, like the RX10, Sony wants videographers to feel at home with models which offer 1080p video at 60 or 24 frames per second with full manual control. Both models can also output uncompressed through the HDMI out, perfect for those with a 4K television. A Multi-Interface Shoe allows for connectivity of variety of accessories like microphones and flashes. The standard 3.5mm mic and headphone jacks also allow you to connect a variety of microphones.

Tech geeks should also have a smile on their face as the A7 and A7R both include built-in Wi-Fi which allows you to remotely control the cameras from your iOS or Android phone. Also included is NFC one-touch for simple connection to NFC-enabled Android devices. NEX owners will feel right at home with the menu system though Sony has made some refinements that should make them jealous. This includes a revamped menu layout which displays relevant options on the same screen while the current NEX UI forces you to go back and forth between your screen and the options menu.

The Sony Alpha 7 body is priced at $1,700 while those looking for body and a 28-70mm F3.5 – F5.6 full- frame lens (model SEL2870) can snatch one up for  $2000. On the other hand, the flagship Sony Alpha 7R body carries a $2,300 price tag with no bundles. Both models are set to ship in December, perfect for your Christmas tree.

Discuss:

Does a full-frame camera fit your shooting habits?

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Sony Unveils World’s First Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras

New Sony Alpha 7 Series Are World’s Smallest, Lightest Full-Frame Interchangeable Lens Cameras

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 15, 2013 – Sony’s new α7 and α7R digital cameras are the world’s smallest full-frame interchangeable lens models2. Highly anticipated by professional photographers and imaging enthusiasts alike, the two new cameras offer an unmatched combination of creativity, customizability and portability.

The α7R model features a 36.4 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor® CMOS sensor – the highest resolution sensor in the history of Sony’s α line – with no optical low pass filter for added resolving power and increased image detail. The α7 model boasts an impressive 24.3 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor® CMOS sensor and an innovative fast Hybrid AF system.

Each camera is equipped with advanced imaging features including a powerful new BIONZ® X processor; fast AF capabilities; a clear, bright XGA OLED Tru-finder, full HD 60p video recording, Wi-Fi® and NFC connection, dust-and moisture- resistance and more.

“With these new α7 camera systems, Sony has completely redefined the look and feel of a professional-grade digital camera,” said Mike Kahn, director of the interchangeable lens camera business at Sony Electronics. “The α7 and α7R cameras are significantly smaller, lighter and more portable than any other full-frame interchange lens camera yet deliver image quality, power and performance that professionals and enthusiasts crave.”Both cameras feature full customization and control to meet the needs of the most demanding photographers. There are 9 different customizable buttons and 46 assignable functions that can be adjusted based on shooting preferences, including fully customizable front and back dials, a rear control wheel and an exposure compensation dial. Users can preview all changes to photographic settings in real-time on the high-contrast, 2.4 million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder or the high-resolution tiltable 3” LCD screen.

The new cameras share a powerful new BIONZ X processor that accurately reproduces details in textures in real-time via extra high-speed processing capabilities, and allows for exceptional low noise performance in all types of lighting conditions.

Additionally, the powerful processor combined with the advanced, high resolution sensors allow both cameras to shoot pro-quality Full HD video (AVCHD progressive, 1920x1080p @ 60p) with richly detailed colors and ultra-low noise.

Clear Image Zoom has been enhanced for video recording as well, allowing for powerful close-up shots without sacrificing pixel count. Other pro-style movie features include an audio recording level control and display plus a “live” HDMI® output for passing through video to an external monitor or recording device.

The new cameras both have on-board Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities for instant image sharing and transfer to compatible smartphones and tablets. The α7R and α7 models can access Sony’s platform of PlayMemoriesTM Camera Apps, allowing users to add new effects, filters, utilities and more. This platform includes new ‘Multiple Exposure’ app, which automatically combines sequential exposures into one creative shot, and ‘Smart Remote Control’4, which allows for direct control of exposure and shutter speed from a connected smartphone and is particularly useful for self-portraits or group shots5. Find out more at www.playmemoriescameraapps.com .The new α7 and α7R cameras each have a tough, magnesium alloy build and are dust and moisture resistant for standing up to some of the toughest weather conditions.

α7R Camera

Designed for professional photographers and highly advanced enthusiasts, the new α7R model is the world’s smallest and lightest full-frame interchangeable lens camera2.

It has an impressive 36.4 effective megapixel full frame sensor and no optical low pass filter, ensuring that the extraordinary resolving power is fully realized and resulting in an unprecedented level of detail and clarity in images.

The camera features a new Fast Intelligent AF technology that delivers blazingly quick, accurate autofocus. Additionally, there are a total of three selectable sizes for the Flexible Spot AF frame, minimizing the risk of accidentally focusing on the wrong target.

α7 Camera

Offering an exciting entry into the world of full-frame photography, the α7 camera features an advanced 24.3 effective megapixel full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor paired with the powerful new BIONZ X processor.

The exciting new camera has an innovative Fast Hybrid AF system that combines phase- and contrast-detect AF methods to ensure speedy, accurate autofocus. It can also shoot at up to 5 fps continuously with non-stop AF tracking, allowing it to keep pace with fast- moving athletes, wildlife or energetic children.

New Sony α Lenses and Accessories

There are a total of 5 new full-frame E-mount lenses designed to take full advantage of the powerful imaging capabilities of the α7R and α7 cameras, including mid-range zoom lenses from Sony and Carl Zeiss, two bright Zeiss Sonnar T*TM prime lenses and a premium- quality G LensTM telephoto zoom. Sony’s growing E-mount interchangeable lens lineup now consists of 21 different lenses including the new full-frame models.

In addition to the new lenses, there are also two new-generation mount adaptors that give photographers the ability to utilize full-frame Sony A-mount optics on the α7 and α7R cameras. The LA-EA3 adapter simply adds compatibility for existing A-mount lenses the new cameras, while the LA-EA4 model adds the ultra-fast focusing and shooting capabilities of Sony’s innovative Translucent Mirror Technology.

There is also a new vertical grip (VG-C1EM) that offers greater comfort during vertical shooting and can accommodate two separate NP-FW50 batteries for extended battery life and shooting time. A new BC-TRW compact external battery charger that quickly charges batteries and is great for travel, and FA-CS1M off camera shoe allows the use of external flashes (HVL-43M, 20M) in off-camera wired applications. Additionally, the new3

LCS-ELCA premium soft leather carry case protects the α7 and α7R cameras from scuffs and marks while being carried.

Pricing and Availability

The Sony α7R and α7 full-frame interchangeable lens cameras will be available for purchase this December.

The α7R camera will be offered as a body-only for about $2300.

The Sony α7 compact system camera will be offered with a 28-70mm F3.5 – F5.6 full- frame lens (model SEL2870) for about $2000. It will also be offered as a body-only for about $1700.

The versatile new LA-EA3 and LA-EA4 mount adapters will be available in December for about $200 and $350, respectively.

The new VG-C1EM vertical grip and LCS-ELCA premium case will also be available in December for about $300 and $ 140, respectively.

The new camera and all compatible accessories will be available at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) and other authorized dealers nationwide.

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