Sony Introduces the α7 II, the World’s First Full-Frame Camera with Optical 5-Axis Image Stabilisation

 

α7 II (ILCE-7M2) with SEL 2470Z

(SINGAPORE, 11 DECEMBER 2014) – Sony has released the α7 II (ILCE-7M2), the next in the α7 series of interchangeable-lens models and the world’s first camera with optical 5-axis image stabilisation designed for a full-frame image sensor.

The camera offers outstanding image quality in a compact size and light build, and it carries on the traditions of the α7 series, which includes the world’s smallest and lightest interchangeable-lens full-frame camera (α7R). A 24.3 effective megapixel 35 mm full-frame Exmor® CMOS sensor moves along five axes to compensate for camera shake, providing optical image stabilisation equivalent to up to 4.5 steps faster shutter speed of correction for still images. Shooting sharp handheld stills and video is now possible under conditions that may have required a tripod in the past. In this and other scenarios, users can enjoy beautifully rendered images from the full-frame sensor with the convenience of image stabilisation. In-camera image stabilisation also offers sharper images for those using A-mount lenses on an optional lens adapter.

Detects and corrects various camera shake along five axes for still images and video, including angular shake (pitch and yaw) that tends to occur when shooting with a telephoto lens, shift shake (along the X and Y axes) that becomes noticeable as photographing magnification increases, and rotational shake (roll) that often affects shots at night or when recording video.

The full-frame image sensor moves to compensate for these kinds of camera shake. For still images, stabilisation is equivalent to up to 4.5 steps faster shutter speed of correction2.

Handheld low-light shooting at slower shutter speeds becomes possible, allowing for greater creativity and mobility without the need for a tripod. The camera’s in-body image stabilisation is therefore effective even in combination with E-mount lenses without Optical SteadyShot (OSS). For A-mount lenses as well (using an optional mount adapter such as LA-EA4 or LA-EA3), camera shake is compensated for along five axes within the camera body. Users can thus make the most of the beautiful rendering power of various α lenses with the α7 II.

Monitor the corrected image in real-time on the camera’s LCD screen or in the OLED viewfinder, thus allowing for fine-tuned framing and focusing even when using a telephoto or macro lens.

117-point focal plane phase-detection AF sensor and 25 contrast detection AF points are placed over a wide area of the screen, making use of the superb tracking capabilities of the phase detection AF and therefore enabling clear capture of moving subjects that might otherwise evade focus.

A more advanced algorithm is used to detect the subject position, enabling optimal lens drive. In a variety of scenarios, autofocus is very responsive – 30% faster than in previous models4.

An improved, original Sony algorithm for the prediction of moving bodies results in a 1.5 times improvement in performance in tracking a subject and predicting its next movement. Additionally, AF and automatic exposure (AE) continue to track the subject during high-speed continuous shooting (up to 5 fps), so that a sudden movement or expression of the subject is never missed. Finally, greatly improved tracking ability and subject capture are made possible through the advances in image analysis technology with “lock-on AF”, a feature that optimises focusing on the subject in accordance with its size.

The camera is equipped with a full-frame Exmor CMOS image sensor with approximately 24.3 effective megapixels. High resolution and larger pixels enhance sensitivity and reduce image noise to release the full potential of lens’ optical performance. Images are rendered beautifully and bokeh effects attainable only with full-frame sensors become possible.

Loaded with an advanced BIONZ X image processing engine, the α7 II enhances images in several ways: through “detail reproduction technology”, which recreates natural-looking textures even in the minute details of an image; “diffraction-reducing technology”, which prevents loss of detail when aperture stopped down; and “area-specific noise reduction”, which greatly reduces noise while maintaining exceptional detail and texture even under low light conditions such as night time and indoors.

In addition to recording in AVCHD Ver. 2.0 Full HD (1920×1080) 60p (50p)/60i (50i)/24p, the camera records in XAVC-S, a consumer format derived from the professional XAVC® format. This offers outstanding Full HD video quality at a high bit rate of 50 Mbps. Long GOP compression is used, targeting differences between frames, along with the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 codec for video. Regarding audio recording, linear PCM is used and files are saved in the MP4 format.

Picture profiles enable convenient in-camera tone adjustment. The α7 II also supports the S-Log2 gamma function, which preserves a wide dynamic range, and a wide S-Gamut mode. Other features include Time Code/User Bit (useful in editing), Rec Control (for synced recording with compatible external recorders), marker display/settings, and dual video recording.

Grip shape and height keep the camera steady even when using a large telephoto lens. The shutter button has been shifted toward the front, to a position that feels more natural. This, along with the button’s increased size, helps reduce camera shake. Shooting comfort and convenience were a priority in design. Ten customisable buttons can be assigned to any of 56 functions.

The tilting display features a White Magic™ LCD screen for exceptional visibility even under bright sunlight.

An XGA OLED Tru-Finder viewfinder with a 2.36 million dot equivalent resolution and high contrast, enabling faithful reproduction of setting adjustments, fine-tuned focusing using magnified display or peaking features, and bokeh effects. The viewfinder also allows for clear review of previous shots. Because the camera is fully APS-C-compatible, it displays the entire view even when APS-C lenses are used.

Sturdy magnesium alloy construction of the top, front cover, and internal structures ensures that the camera is both durable and light. The robust mounting structure easily handles large telephoto lenses, heavy video lenses, and many others.

Main buttons and dials are also sealed to help keep out moisture and dust, and an interlocking double layered construction of media and port covers as well as body seams ensures greater moisture and dust resistance. Overall, the camera is designed to be used by photographers in any number of situations without having to worry about the safety of their cameras.

After the camera is switched on, it is ready to shoot 40 per cent sooner than current models.

·         Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for mobile linking

·         Features can be expanded with PlayMemories Camera Apps

By installing an updated Lens Compensation app (enabling the storage of lens information in Exif data, compensation of recorded video, and import/export of lens compensation values), users can manually set correction values for lens peripheral shading, chromatic aberration, and distortion.

To learn more, visit the PlayMemories Camera Apps website: www.playmemoriescameraapps.com/portal.

A vertical battery grip designed specifically for the α7 II, this grip enhances stability and camera control in vertical or horizontal shooting. Holds two NP-FW50 rechargeable battery packs (not included) for longer battery life when shooting. Highly reliable moisture and dust resistant construction.

Compatible models:  α7 II

A case made for the α7 II that includes a leather body case and lens jacket. The battery pack and memory card can be removed without having to take the camera out of the case. NFC/USB are also accessible while the camera is in the case.

Compatible models:  α7 II

Soft replacement eye-piece cup designed for comfort.

Compatible models:  α7 II, α7S, α7R, α7

Telephoto zoom lens that brings subjects into sharp focus while creating the beautiful bokeh that G lenses are known for. Ideal for outdoor sports and wildlife photography as well as short-range shots from as close as 1.2 m. Also suited for portrait and tele-macro shooting such as floral photography.

·         Nano AR coating minimises flare and ghosting from reflections within the lens to improve rendering performance.

·         Approximately 4x faster AF tracking than the current lens model SAL70300G.

·         Moisture and dust resistant design.

The α7 II (ILCE-7M2) from Sony will be available at all Sony Stores, Sony Centres and selected authorised dealers from 12 December 2014 onwards, at a recommended retail price of S$2,149 (body only) and S$2,549 (with SEL2870 lens).

As part of the launch promotion, customers who purchase the α7 II from 12 to 21 December 2014 will receive the NP-FW50 Rechargeable Battery Pack and SF-64UY SDXC UHS-1 Memory Card for free.

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*1 Approximate. May vary depending on shooting conditions and media.