برچسب: fullframe

  • Sony Announces Compact Full-Frame FX2 Cinema Camera

    Sony Announces Compact Full-Frame FX2 Cinema Camera


    Sony has unveiled the latest addition to its Cinema Line—the FX2. The compact full-frame video camera has a similar body design to the four-year-old full-frame FX3 and almost three-year-old cropped-sensor FX30. But where the FX3 borrowed the a7S III’s 12MP sensor and lacked an EVF, the FX2 takes the 33MP sensor from the a7 IV while featuring a video-camera-style 3.68-M-dot EVF, which can be tilted up to 90 degrees. Like the a7 IV, the FX2 supports Dual Base ISO (800 and 4000) when using S-Log3.

    With its a7 IV DNA, the FX2 promises to be a much more useful hybrid camera, offering not just high-end video recording and powerful video-focused tools, but also high-quality still image capture. (In addition, there’s a handy movie/still lever to switch between modes.) The FX2 can record up to 4K/30p and 1080/120p using the full width of the sensor, and supports Log shooting in Cine EI, Cine EI Quick, and Flexible ISO modes. Shooting 4K/60p entails an APS-C crop factor.

    To round things off, the FX2 offers a large dedicated record button, a full-size HDMI port, and an internal cooling fan. The camera has two memory card slots compatible with SD UHS-I/II cards, with one slot also capable of accepting a CFexpress 2 Type A card.

    Available in August, the Sony FX2 will be available for a body-only price of  $2,700.

     



    PRESS RELEASE

    Sony Electronics Introduces the FX2 Compact Camera, Expanding Cinema Line’s Versatility for Creatives

    The new FX2 has the look and operability of Cinema Line cameras with the ability to shoot high-resolution photos and comes equipped with an articulating eyepiece

    Sony Electronics Inc. is proud to announce today the latest addition to its established Cinema Line family, the FX2. The FX2 will offer a seamless entry point into the broader Cinema Line range, giving greater cinematic expression to independent creators or small crews needing a versatile camera.

    “The hybrid cinema camera was created based on user feedback and is engineered with unique features to support filmmaking, a new eyepiece, and enhancements for versatile production needs. The FX2 is intended to continue the Cinema Line’s goal of preserving authentic emotion in every shot and empower creators across all areas of content production,” says Theresa Alesso, President, Imaging Products and Solutions Americas, Sony Electronics Inc.

    FX2 Features: Full-frame Photo and Video Capabilities

    The FX2 comes with a full-frame sensor that delivers stunning imagery and beautiful bokeh effects. Equipped with a 33.0 effective megapixel1 back-illuminated Exmor R™ sensor with up to 15+ stops of wide latitude using S-Log3, it captures impressive detail in both highlights and shadows.

    Designed for versatile shooting environments, the FX2 offers Dual Base ISO at 800 and 4000, ensuring optimal performance in both bright and low-light conditions. Its ISO sensitivity for video can be extended up to 102400, making it ideal for challenging lighting scenarios. The camera supports a wide range of recording formats—including 4:2:2 10-bit All-Intra—and records in high-quality options, such as XAVC S-I DCI 4K at 24.00p, providing professionals with the tools needed for flexible, high-end production workflows.

    The FX2 can also continuously record for up to 13 hours in 4K 60p2 thanks to its internal cooling fan and effective heat dissipation structure. The FX2 offers variable frame rate settings, allowing up to 60 fps in 4K (for a maximum 2.5x slow-motion effect) and up to 120 fps in Full HD (for up to 5x slow motion). It supports Log shooting in Cine EI, Cine EI Quick, and Flexible ISO modes, offering versatile workflows for different production needs. To further the cinematic expression of the camera, creators can import up to 16 user LUTs for on-camera preview, enabling precise color monitoring on set.

    Filmmakers can also easily and quickly create in-camera cinematic looks, with S-Cinetone™ set as the default, along with a range of Picture Profile and Creative Look presets. A de-squeeze display function is available, supporting both 1.3x and 2.0x anamorphic lenses for accurate framing.

    Improved Usability for Comfortable Solo Operation

    The FX2 features the same compact, flat-top design as Sony’s Cinema Line FX3 and FX30 cameras, ensuring familiarity and compatibility across setups. Built-in mounting points (UNC 1/4-20 x3) support a cageless configuration, offering greater flexibility for rigging. An optional top handle (ILME-FX2) enhances mobility and control, especially during handheld or dynamic shooting. Its lightweight, portable build—measuring approximately 5 1/8 x 3 1/8 x 4 1/8 in and weighing approximately 1 lb 8.0 oz—makes it ideal for solo operators or small crew productions.

    The camera offers advanced focus features designed for precision and creativity. Its new Real-time Recognition AF (auto focus) delivers fast and reliable performance with improved accuracy for human subjects, although its intelligent subject recognition extends to animals, birds, vehicles, and insects, with an Auto mode available for effortless detection. For even more control, tools like focus breathing compensation, AF Assist, and customizable autofocus transition speed and sensitivity give creators the flexibility to fine-tune focus for expressive, cinematic imagery. The FX2 comes with Active Mode and Dynamic active Mode, which is new to the Cinema Line, and are both designed to ensure smooth and steady handheld shooting.

    The Auto Framing feature automatically crops and tracks a subject to keep them in a prominent position when the camera is mounted on a tripod, producing footage that looks like it was shot by an experienced operator. The Framing Stabilizer function automatically keeps the subject in the same position within the frame, which can be useful, for example, when the camera operator is moving alongside the subject.

    From a still image perspective, the camera features an additional log shooting option with a newly added ‘Log shooting’ menu. This feature allows creators to shoot high-resolution 33MP stills, optimized for color grading in post-production. The FX2 also offers smooth operation with a MOVIE/STILL mode lever, allowing for a quick switchover between still and movie shooting. Depending on the selected mode, the displayed menu items will automatically adjust. Additionally, mode selection is made easy with a long press of the Fn button, which recalls and changes the shooting mode.

    FX2 Features: Improved but Familiar Hardware Inherited From Sony’s Cinema Cameras

    The FX2 is equipped with a new high-resolution 3.68-million-dot tiltable EVF3 (electronic view finder) designed specifically for video production, offering a wide viewing angle and enhanced immersion thanks to its included deep eyepiece. Complementing the EVF is a 3.0-type vari-angle touchscreen LCD, making it easy to frame shots from virtually any angle. Intuitively arranged controls on the top panel and grip, along with tally lamps for clear recording status, support efficient on-set operation. The camera also introduces a customizable “BIG6” home screen that provides quick access to essential shooting parameters, such as FPS, ISO, shutter speed (angle or speed), Look presets, white balance, iris, and neutral-density (ND) filter settings. Addressing the growing demand for vertical content creation, the FX2 supports vertical menu display during shooting—ideal for social media formats. The handle-equipped model further enhances professional usability with two XLR/TRS terminals and a 3.5mm stereo mic jack, enabling 4-channel, 24-bit digital audio capture.

    The camera offers extensive expandability and connectivity options, including an HDMI Type-A terminal capable of outputting up to 4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit video and 16-bit RAW4 for high-end recording and monitoring. For seamless data transfer and remote control, it supports dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz5) as well as wired LAN via a compatible adapter6. Additionally, the USB Type-C port enables SuperSpeed USB up to 10Gbps data transfers and supports USB Power Delivery (PD)7, while built-in USB and network streaming support enables live broadcasting and remote production workflows.

    Social Responsibility

    Aligned with Sony’s global environment plan, ‘Road to Zero’, this product supports the company’s vision for achieving a zero environmental footprint by 2050. The manufacturing process reflects this commitment through facilities powered entirely by renewable energy sources8.

    The camera system incorporates comprehensive accessibility options, including a Screen Reader function9 and Display Magnification, to support visually impaired users across an expanded range of menu items. Additional intuitive controls enhance usability for all shooters, featuring:

    • Real-time recognition autofocus that reduces manual adjustments
    • Streamlined touch interface operations for direct menu navigation
    • Tactile button design with clear differentiation

    These inclusive design elements ensure professional imaging tools remain accessible to creators of all abilities while maintaining full operational capability

    The FX2 will be available early August for a suggested retail price of $2,699.99 USD and $3,499.99 CAD body only or $3,099.99 USD and $3,999.99 CAD with XLR handle. It will be sold directly through Sony and at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

    1 For stills. Max. 27.6 megapixels for movie.

    2 Sony internal tests. USB power supply, XAVC S-I (All-I), 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2, 25 deg C (ambient, camera when recording started), Auto power off temperature: High, Cooling fan: Auto. The maximum continuous recording time for a single movie shooting session is approximately 13 hours (a product specification limit) Actual performance varies based on settings, environmental conditions, storage, and usage. Batteries are consumable products and their capacity degrades over time as they age. Sony does not guarantee the life span of the battery.

    3 Adjustable from 0° to +90° for flexible shooting angles.

    4 The output image will be in the APS-C size /Super 35mm equivalent angle of view.

    5 The 5 GHz band may not be available in some countries or region

    6 A commercially available USB-LAN adapter is required.

    7 A USB PD compatible external power supply device with 9V/3A or higher output capacity and a USB Type-C cable that can handle 3A or more is required

    8 Further reducing environmental impact, the product utilizes recycled packaging materials that minimize plastic content without compromising protection. These sustainable practices demonstrate our dedication to eco-conscious production while maintaining the highest quality standards.

    9 Download of compatible language file may be necessary. Please refer to the Help Guide for details.





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  • Nikon Announces Full-Frame Mirrorless Z5 II

    Nikon Announces Full-Frame Mirrorless Z5 II


    Nikon has announced the Z5 II, the company’s entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera. The new model improves on its predecessor, the five-year-old Z5, in key areas. Its 24-megapixel full-frame, backside-illuminated sensor is paired with Nikon’s EXPEED 7 processing engine, delivering best-in-class low-light performance and autofocus performance (down to –10EV)—according to Nikon. As well as featuring Nikon’s much-loved 3D tracking, it’s the first full-frame Nikon mirrorless camera to boast the AF-A focus mode, which switches between AF-S and AF-C automatically in response to a detected subject. The Z5 II can shoot up to 11fps in RAW with the mechanical shutter and up to 15fps RAW using the electronic shutter.

    In terms of video, the Z5 II can shoot uncropped 4K at up to 30fps (which its predecessor could not), but shooting 4K at 60fps incurs a hefty 1.5x crop. If you’re content with Full HD, the Z5 II delivers 1080/120p recording. The camera can capture video in 12-bit N-RAW as well as 10-bit H.265 and 8-bit H.264. In addition, it is the first camera capable of recording N-RAW to an SD card.

    Rounding off the package is an in-body image stabilization system promising 7.5 stops of compensation in the center of the frame and 6 stops at the edges of the frame; an improved EVF that can reach up to 3,000 nits peak brightness (six times brighter than any competing model, says Nikon); and dual UHS-II SD card slots.

    Shipping this month, the Nikon Z5 II will be available from retailers such as Backscatter for $1,700.

     



    When purchasing underwater photography equipment like the products mentioned in this article, please support DPG by supporting our retail partner—Backscatter.com.



    PRESS RELEASE

    Nikon releases the Z5II full-frame mirrorless camera

    Achieving the same superior performance as high-end models, with greater responsiveness in dark scenes and improved ability to capture sudden movement

    Nikon Corporation (Nikon) is pleased to announce the release of the full-frame/FX-format Nikon Z5II mirrorless camera for which the Nikon Z mount has been adopted.

    The Z5II inherits the superior shooting functions and performance of high-end Nikon cameras while offering an even greater ability to respond to a wide variety of dark or dimly lit scenes and situations. Equipped with the same EXPEED 7 image-processing engine as the Nikon Z9, the flagship model of the Nikon Z series, and the Nikon Z8, it also offers subject detection powered by deep learning (AI) technology, and makes focusing on the intended subject easier with highly accurate, high-speed autofocusing in approximately one third* of the time required by the Nikon Z5. In addition, the high-sensitivity performance made possible by the back-illuminated CMOS sensor suppresses blur and noise for beautiful rendering of the textures and details of subjects and scenes, even in dimly lit situations, such as when shooting indoors or capturing night landscapes. The Z5II also supports Imaging Recipes, downloadable imaging presets created by Nikon and creators, as well as Flexible Color Picture Control that allows users to precisely control the expression of colors with intuitive operation. The Z5II is a camera that empowers users to fully immerse themselves in their unique creative expression while enjoying the powerful shooting performance and rich, expressive capabilities of a full-frame camera.

    Nikon will continue to pursue new dimensions in optical performance while meeting users’ needs, contributing to the development of imaging culture, with the hope of expanding possibilities for imaging expression.

    *Measured in accordance with CIPA standards. The measurement values are based on the following testing conditions: Subject brightness of 10 EV; in photo mode using aperture-priority auto (A), single-servo AF (AF-S), single-point AF (center), at 70-mm focal length with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S.

    Primary features

    1. Advanced AF performance inherited from higher-end models

    AI-utilizing deep learning technology has been adopted for the Z5II, enabling automatic detection of the same nine types of subject as the Z9 and Z8, for both stills and video recording. It is the first full-frame Nikon mirrorless camera to support AF-A focus mode; when shooting stills, the camera automatically switches between AF-S and AF-C focus modes in response to subject movement or changes in composition. This allows the camera to automatically focus on the subject, with no setting adjustments, when photographing pets or other subjects whose movements are difficult to predict, thus freeing users to concentrate on framing and creating the desired image. In addition, increased AF performance achieves focus in approximately one-third of the time required by the Z5, facilitating the capture of decisive moments. The Z5II is also equipped with 3D-tracking, which keeps the target subject in focus even if it moves rapidly or erratically. This provides subject tracking at a constant 14 fps, so users will never miss a crucial moment when photographing subjects whose movements cannot be predicted.

    2. A variety of features that allow users to unleash their creativity with unique color and imaging expression

    Nikon Imaging Cloud connectivity permits users to download Imaging Recipes recommended by Nikon or supervised by popular creators at no charge, and to apply these recipes when shooting. Recipes downloaded to the camera can be applied immediately via the dedicated Picture Control button. Users can quickly switch between color presets and choose from a variety of expressions while exploring their own unique style. In addition, the Z5II supports Flexible Color Picture Control, which allows users to create and establish their own unique color styles using Nikon’s NX Studio* RAW processing and editing computer software. Using tools such as the Color Blender and Color Grading, users can adjust hues, brightness, and contrast to achieve users desired color aesthetic. Combinations of settings configured in NX Studio can then be exported to the Z5II and registered as Custom Picture Controls that can be applied at any time when shooting.

    *A Nikon ID is required for NX Studio Ver. 1.9.0 and later.

    3. Shooting performance for beautiful rendering of dark scenes

    The Z5II is equipped with the same EXPEED 7 image-processing engine as the Z9, as well as a back-illuminated CMOS sensor that stands up well to high sensitivities, for significantly less noise. This camera offers a maximum standard sensitivity for still-image shooting of ISO 64000 and ISO 51200 for video recording. This outstanding high-sensitivity performance enables the shooting of beautiful, high-resolution images in which textures and details are preserved, even in dimly lit or dark indoor locations such as cafés and aquariums, as well as outdoors or at night. In fact, the autofocus detection range extends down to the low-light limit of -10 EV*1, making focusing in dark surroundings easier and expanding shooting possibilities. The 5-axis in-camera vibration reduction (VR) provides superior image stabilization equivalent to a 7.5-stop*2 increase in shutter speed at the center and a 6.0-stop*2 increase at the peripheral areas of the frame. This allows users to explore more creative shooting, such as trying out slower shutter speeds even when shooting handheld. The Z5II is also equipped with Focus-point VR*3. This feature suppresses blurring around focused areas for sharp rendering of the subject, even when it is positioned near the edge of the frame.

    *1 Photo mode, single-servo AF (AF-S), single-point AF (center), ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.2 lens used, at 20°C/68°F.

    *2 Based on CIPA 2024 Standard. Yaw/pitch/roll performance when using the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S (telephoto end, NORMAL).

    *3 Only in photo mode with NIKKOR Z lenses not equipped with VR. Does not function when multiple focus points are displayed.

    4. Performance and ease of use that support reliable and comfortable shooting

    AUTO shooting mode has been improved with EXPEED 7’s superior image-processing performance and Nikon’s unique AI deep learning technology. The camera responds to a wide variety of shooting scenarios by analyzing and recognizing the subject and its surroundings, and then automatically optimizing exposure values, including aperture value, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, and even focus mode, all while the user simply holds the camera. With a high-luminance 3000 cd/m2 electronic viewfinder (EVF) panel, the EVF built into the Z5II is approximately 3x brighter than that employed for the Z5, allowing the user to check focus and exposure, even in bright surroundings such as outdoors under strong sunlight. In addition, superior operability has been inherited from high-end models. For example, buttons are positioned for right-handed operation that enables smooth adjustment of settings when shooting, and the grip is shaped to prevent tiredness of the arm, even when a heavy lens is used for extended periods of time.

    5. Additional features

    • Equipped with a Pre-Release Capture function*1 capable of recording images buffered up to one second before the shutter-release button is fully pressed.
    • Equipped with Nikon’s exclusive portrait functions, including Rich Tone Portrait that realizes radiant and beautiful rendering of skin textures, and Skin Softening that smooths the skin while leaving hair, eyes, and other details sharp.
    • Supports Hi-Res Zoom*2 with video recording that allows users to zoom-in on their subject with no loss in resolution when using a prime lens or when the telephoto end of a zoom lens doesn’t quite reach.
    • The first Nikon Z series camera to support internal recording of N-RAW video to an SD card.*3
    • Supports recording of N-Log*4 video that offers subtle and rich tonal gradation.
    • N-Log LUTs, developed in collaboration with RED for users to enjoy cinematic colors and looks, can be used at no charge.
    • Equipped with Product Review Mode, with which the camera automatically switches focus to the object in front of it, and Video Self-timer, with which the camera automatically starts recording video after a preset delay when the record button is pressed.
    • Equipped with a large and high-resolution vari-angle monitor with a touch screen for intuitive operation.
    • With still-image photography in vertical orientation, the monitor’s user interface and EVF information display automatically rotate to vertical orientation, making them easier to check and operate.

    *1 Available only with JPEG recording.

    *2 Hi-Res Zoom is available when all the following conditions are met: H.265 10-bit (MOV), H.265 8-bit (MOV) or H.264 8-bit (MP4) -with image area set to FX, and [1920×1080; 30p], [1920×1080; 25p], or [1920×1080; 24p] selected for [Frame size/frame rate] in the video recording menu.

    *3 When a frame size and rate of [[FX] 4032×2268 30p], [[FX] 4032×2268 25p], [[FX] 4032×2268 24p], [[DX] 3984×2240 30p], [[DX] 3984×2240 25p], or [[DX] 3984×2240 24p] is selected for [Frame size/frame rate] in the video recording menu. Picture quality is equivalent to that of a video quality setting of [Normal]. Use of Video Speed Class 90 (V90) SD memory cards is recommended.

    *4 When [H.265 10-bit (MOV)] or [N-RAW 12-bit (NEV)] is selected for [Video file type] in the video recording menu.

     





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  • New gear: The Sony a9 III is the first full-frame camera with a global shutter

    New gear: The Sony a9 III is the first full-frame camera with a global shutter


    We thought the Sony a1 was an impressive camera, but the image-making company has just topped it with its latest release. The main highlight of the newly released a9 III is its global shutter, the world’s first for a full-frame mirrorless camera. The unique shutter design, along with a powerful Bionz XR processor, allows for a host of impressive specs, including 120 fps, 1/80,000 max shutter speed, and flash sync at any shutter speed. Additionally, the company also announced the FE 300mm F2.8 G Master OSS lens, which offers superb reach and performance in a relatively compact body.

    Sony a9 III camera at a glance

    • 24.6-megapixel sensor with Bionz XR processor
    • Global sensor exposes and reads every pixel at the same time
    • 120 fps blackout-free burst shooting
    • Improved ergonomics
    • 1/80,000 maximum shutter speed
    • Flash sync at any shutter speed
    • 759 AF points with more sizes of focus area spots
    • 8-stops of optical in-body image stabilization
    • 6K oversampling for 4K 60p movies
    • 4K 120p video without cropping
    • Weighs 1.4 pounds
    • Available in spring 2024 for $5,999

    What is a global shutter?

    The star of the show for the a9 III is, by far, its global shutter. Global shutter technology isn’t new, with a handful of cinema cameras utilizing it over the past few years. But the Sony a9 III is the first full-frame mirrorless camera to jump on board. So, why does that even matter? What is a global shutter?

    Currently, most cameras rely on a rolling shutter. With the rolling shutter design, the camera’s sensor receives and reads information line by line from top to bottom. This means that there is a delay between the first line of data and the last. That delay can cause problems when capturing fast-moving subjects in photos or videos, resulting in warping and distortion. You likely have seen this in helicopter rotor blades. In photos, those blades can appear curved or bent when in reality, they are straight.

    The global shutter design solves this problem by exposing and reading every single pixel on the sensor at the exact same time. That means that the Sony a9 III will benefit from zero distortion in stills and video, which is a significant advantage for those shooting action. It also allows for a range of other benefits, including the ability to work with flash at any shutter speed, including the camera’s max shutter speed of 1/80,000 (no, that’s not an extra zero). This unlimited flash sync even works with third-party flashes. Additionally, there will be no banding from artificial lights or displays. To aid in this, Sony has also employed an Anti-Flicker mode that automatically syncs the shutter with the brightest point in the light’s cycle to keep the exposure consistent in photos and videos.

    The Sony a9 III with a vertical grip sits against a white background.
    Along with the camera, Sony has released a new vertical grip that offers the same ergonomics as the new camera. Sony

    Sony a9 III details

    There are plenty of other things to swoon about in the a9 III beyond the global shutter, though many are dependent on that feature. Sony built the new camera around a 24.6-megapixel full-frame stacked CMOS sensor and Bionz XR processor, which results in eight times the processing power as the a9 II. the five-axis optical in-body image stabilization system allows for eight stops of compensation with the camera alone. You’ll get even more stabilization if using a stabilized lens as well.

    On top of fancy guts, the a9 III features a redesigned body with better ergonomics. Sony says the grip is improved to make the camera easier to hold in the palm of the hand, even when using a telephoto lens. It says that it also moved the shutter button up slightly to be in a more natural, comfortable position. It features a four-axis multi-angle LCD touchscreen (the same as the a7R V) and 9.44 million-dot Quad XGA OLED electronic viewfinder. And as we’d expect from a pro-level Sony camera, it is dust and moisture-resistant.

    To pair with the pro-level features of the a9 III, Sony is also releasing a new vertical grip—the VG-C5— that offers the same ergonomic design as the new camera. That includes the same shutter button placement and a new custom button (C5) in the same position so that it feels the exact same when switching between horizontal and vertical shooting. The new battery also pulls parallel power instead of drawing from one source and then switching to the other. Sony says that this allows for 15 percent more battery life.

    The Sony a9 III is placed against a white background with its rear display tilted.
    Sony

    Burst shooting

    One of the main selling points of the a9 III is its absurd burst shooting capabilities. This alone will earn it a top spot as one of the best Sony cameras. It is able to shoot 120 fps blackout-free with real-time recognition AF and auto exposure. The fast burst shooting even works with 14-bit raw. Shooting fast bursts is only one piece of the puzzle when documenting action, though. You also have to get the timing right in the first place. To help ensure you get the shot, Sony has added a Pre-Capture function. This new setting allows the camera to continuously record (also up to 120 fps) for up to one second before the shutter is released.

    Even when shooting action, you don’t always want your fastest fps setting. Sony has found a clever way to get around that with the Speed Boost function and a newly added a new custom button (C5) on the front of the camera. The new button allows you to instantly switch to a faster, preset speed at any time and then go back to a more reasonable fps just as quickly.

    Image selection of 120 fps with Pre-Capture can be massively overwhelming. Sony even considered this when developing the a9 III. It has added a new playback image filter that allows you to select a large number of images at once, along with a function menu that can be used during image playback. The camera also plays back bursts as a video, so you can mark the shots you want without individually pressing through images.

    Autofocus

    As with other recent Sony releases, the a9 III features a dedicated AI processing unit to support its advanced phase detection autofocus system. It offers Real-time Recognition AF and Real-time Tracking and can detect a wide range of subjects, including humans, cats, dogs, planes, and more. The system can even detect an eye even when the subject is wearing goggles or helmets, is small in the frame, or moving fast. Sony also expanded the sizes of its focus areas to include XS and XL for more control over your focus points.

    Sony a9 III video specs & features

    Sony emphasized still photography during its announcement with a tagline of “the power of one frame.” But the company certainly didn’t leave video out of the mix in its new camera. The global shutter definitely benefits video shooters since rolling shutter has been a pain point. The a9 III is capable of 4K 60p video oversampled from 6K. It can also shoot 4K 120p without cropping, which is a first for an Alpha series camera. It offers the S-Cinetone profile, S-Log3, 10-bit 4:2:2 capture, and 16-bit raw video over HDMI.

    Sony a9 III pricing & availability

    Of course, with such an advanced, pro-level camera, we should expect a pro-level price. And indeed, the Sony a9 III is priced at $5,999. It is available for pre-order now and will begin shipping in the spring of 2024.

    A person crouches in the grass while holding a camera with the Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens.
    The 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens is an advanced, compact telephoto prime lens for pros. Sony

    FE 300mm F2.8 G Master OSS lens details

    In case the groundbreaking camera wasn’t enough, Sony has also announced a new lens. Like the camera, the FE 300mm F2.8 G Master OSS lens is also a pro-level piece of equipment geared towards serious sports and wildlife photographers, as is evident in its matching $5,999 price.

    As a G Master lens, the new 300mm offering will provide superb resolution and edge-to-edge sharpness. The optical design includes three Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements and one ED glass element to reduce chromatic aberration and improve contrast across the frame. The 11-blade circular aperture results in beautiful smooth bokeh. And two XD linear motors drive focus that is fast, precise, and silent. It’s also able to keep up with the fast burst shooting of the a9 III.

    Beyond image quality, the best feature of the 300mm f/2.8 GM is its size. The lens weighs just 3.2 pounds, which makes it the lightest lens of its class. For context, it is 40 percent lighter than the 400mm f/2.8 GM and roughly the same weight as the original 70-200mm GM. Sony was also very intentional about how the lens balances, designing it with optimum balance for smooth panning and easier handheld shooting.

    The new 300mm telephoto prime lens is compatible with Sony’s 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters. It offers a function ring to instantly engage the APS-C crop, providing a 420mm view. It is dust and moisture-resistant with magnesium alloy inside and out for a durable, rugged build.

    Sony FE 300mm F2.8 G Master OSS pricing & availability

    Like the new camera, the FE 300mm F2.8 G Master OSS lens is available for pre-order now for $5,999. It will begin shipping in the spring of 2024.





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