SONY α7R III / SHOOTING REPORT

The SONY a7 series holds the solid position in the category of 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera. The new a7R III is the third-generation model. Normally, the "R" model had come after the non-R model like the a7 II. However, this model is the first one of the third generation. As it was released shortly after the a9, it inherits the improved operation of the a9. In addition, while using the same 42.40-megapixel sensor of the a7R II, it uses updated image processor to realizing wider dynamic range. The improved AF enabled continuous shooting speed up to 10fps with AF-tracking and Eye AF. Also, the 5-axis IBIS provides 5.5 stops of compensation. Anyway, this is camera with the highest image quality and a number of upgrades.

( Photography : Z II / Text : EYTZ.T & Z II )

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Image quality

One of the best subjects to check image quality is mountain. Look at the range of redness of the leaves lit by the setting sun and you'll notice the difference of the reproduction and precision. Even though I was fully satisfied with the reproduction of red color of the former model, I must admit that it's even better with the a7R III.
* Click to view the image at the original size.

I reached the higher altitude to shoot something deserted. After struggling with the thin air, I found this kettle pod with amazing colors. My climbing was rewarded. I stopped it down to F8 to express the vivid colors of the pond as well as the naked mountain surface. The clouded sky added to the desserted-ness, too. The a7R III reproduced the scene just as it was.

Testing the AF performance and Eye-AF. It was extremely helpful to be able to shoot a person in motion. The reproduction of the skin texture is excellent. Plus, it preserved so much tonal information of the ocean behind. What a dynamic range.
* Click to view the image at the original size.

Taking advantage of the dust/moist-resistant construction and wearing a pair of rain boots, I got close to the waterfall. I choose 1/5000s shutter to freeze the water, resulting in raising the ISO sensitivity to 2000. Where is the noise? The high-sensitivity performance is just incredible.

Low-angle shot is so easy thanks to the tilting touch-panel LCD. Just like with a smartphone, all you need to do to focus is tap the point you want to focus.

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The ultimate model of the a7R III series

While each a7 model has their uniquenesses (a7 for basic, a7S for high-sensitivity performance and video recording, a7R for the highest image quality), the a7R III has it all making it the professional camera. Though we didn't have time to test the new pixel shift feature this time, we are certain that it captures subjects in the highest detail. It shoots 4K with HDR and high-speed video at 120fps. It has the anticipated joy-stick and you'll love the tilting touch-panel LCD. Other professional features include double card slot, battery with long-life, and remote shooting function with a PC.

The a7R III has everything users ever wanted and it's ready to please human desire.

( 27.11.2017 )