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  • Sony RX1R III Premium Compact Camera Unveiled After Almost Decade Wait

    Sony RX1R III Premium Compact Camera Unveiled After Almost Decade Wait



    Good things come to those who wait. Certainly, that’s the reaction Sony is hoping for with the launch of the RX1R III premium full-frame compact—very nearly 10 years after the RX1R II was announced. One thing is for sure: A lot has changed in terms of camera technology in the intervening period.

    For starters, while the RX1R II combined a 42.4-megapixel sensor with the BIONZ X image processor, the RX1R III boasts a 61MP sensor and the latest BIONZ XR chip as well as Sony’s newest AI-processing unit for locking onto and tracking subjects. There are also now 693 phase-detection AF points covering around 78% of the image capture area, up from 399 points in the RX1R II. Unsurprisingly, video also gets a significant boost: The new camera can shoot 4K/30p 10-bit 4:2:2 and 1080/120p 8-bit 4:2:0 video, while its predecessor maxed out at 1080/60p.

    Other things that have changed include: the rear 3-inch LCD, which is now a touchscreen and offers improved resolution (2.36M dot vs 1.23M); the battery, a NP-FW50 unit that increases the CIPA rating from 220 shots to 300; and the EVF, which is rear mounted rather than pop up (though still 2.36M-dot resolution). It’s worth noting a couple of minor negatives: the screen no longer tilts and the viewfinder has a smaller magnification—0.7x vs 0.74x. What has not changed is the camera’s fixed lens—it’s the same Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 that was built into the original RX1 from 2012. For underwater use, of course, that’s going to need high-quality wet lenses in front of it to capture the vast majority of subjects.

    Available in July, the Sony RX1R III will retail for an eye-watering $5,100—a price tag, most will agree, justifies its “premium” designation.

     


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


    PRESS RELEASE

    Sony Electronics Introduces The RX1R III: The Flagship Full-Frame Premium Compact Camera With A Fixed Lens

    SAN DIEGO, July 15, 2025 – Sony Electronics Inc. announces the RX1R III, the eagerly anticipated third generation of its RX1R series, featuring a 61-megapixel1 35 mm full-frame Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor, the latest BIONZ XR™ image processing engine, and a ZEISS® Sonnar T* 35 mm F2 lens.

    “The RX1R III combines Sony’s design savvy with the latest innovations in imaging technology to produce a new flagship in our RX1R camera series that offers uncompromising full-frame quality in a premium compact camera body,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The RX1R series has resonated greatly among discerning photographers, and we’re proud to now deliver the next generation of this popular camera model.”

     


    A Focus On High-Quality Photography

    The combination of the 61-megapixel1 full-frame Exmor R™ back-illuminated CMOS image sensor and the BIONZ XR™ image processing engine delivers high resolution and sensitivity, with low noise and a wide dynamic range. The sensor surface features AR (Anti-Reflection) coating and omits the optical low-pass filter to achieve superior image quality.

    The integrated lens offers excellent image quality. By optimizing the position of the lens and the imaging surface one by one at the micron level, RX1R III achieves high optical performance in a compact form factor.

    Dedicated To Creative Freedom

    To ensure you always get your shot accurately and without effort, RX1R III is equipped with the latest AI-processing unit, a valued feature of top-of-the-line professional Sony Alpha™ cameras. The AI-processing unit can accurately recognize the shape and movement of subjects, human bodies, heads, and the position of eyes, tracking subjects even when their faces are not visible, and is available for both still images and videos2. Up to 693 densely arranged3 phase-detection AF (Auto-Focus) points cover approximately 78% (for still image shooting) of the image capture’s area.

    While the camera has a fixed lens, users can tap into the versatility of three prime lenses thanks to the Step Crop Shooting4 function, which allows users to switch between focal lengths equivalent to 35 mm, 50 mm, and 70 mm5 via assigned buttons or dials. When shooting in RAW format, users can reselect the focal length during post-production. The lens’s macro ring enables instant switching to macro mode, allowing users to get as close as 20 cm (maximum magnification: 0.26x).

    For creators who enjoy unique and personalized visuals, RX1R III offers twelve built-in Creative Looks. Adjustments to hue, saturation, brightness, contrast, and sharpness can be applied not only to still images but also to videos. Most notable among the Creative Looks6, FL2 allows the capturing of a nostalgic expression with subdued colors, and FL3 allows for a more vibrant image.

    Streamlined Design & Reliable Hardware

    Made of lightweight yet highly rigid magnesium alloy, the RX1R III design balances aesthetics and functionality. While maintaining excellent operability, the dials and Multi-Interface (MI) Shoe are embedded into the camera body and the top surface of the body features a flat design. The grip design and surface texture provide a secure and comfortable hold.

    RX1R III is equipped with an electronic viewfinder featuring an approximately 2.36 million-dot XGA OLED with high resolution and high contrast, offering a magnification of approximately 0.70x.

    RX1R III uses the rechargeable battery pack NP-FW50, allowing the capture of up to 300 still images7. It features a USB Type-C® port that allows rapid charging when connected to USB Power Delivery8-compatible devices, or the addition of external power sources, such as mobile batteries, for extended shooting sessions.

    Social Responsibility

    Aligned with Sony’s ambitious ‘Road to Zero’ initiative, this product supports the company’s vision for achieving a zero environmental footprint by 2050. The Sony Group’s manufacturing facilities for imaging products, including the RX1R III, are operating at 100% renewable energy. The RX1R III packaging uses Sony’s proprietary environmentally friendly Original Blended Material9 instead of plastic10.

    The camera system incorporates comprehensive accessibility options, including a Screen Reader function11 and Display Magnification, to support visually impaired users across an expanded range of menu items.

    Optional Accessories

    TG-2 is a dedicated thumb grip that attaches to the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe to provide stable holding and operability, including when operated with one hand. When attached to the body, the metal material and high-quality paint finish provide exceptional design unity.

    LCS-RXL is a compact body case dedicated to this camera model intended to protect the camera from scratches and dirt and enhance its elegance with its refined texture material. The body case allows access to all ports—USB, HDMI, battery, memory card, and tripod attachment—without removal. The grip design improves the holding experience.

    LHP-1 is a lens hood made specifically for this camera. It features a robust construction using lightweight and high-strength aluminum material, protecting the lens from impact and dirt. The bayonet mount allows for quick and secure attachment.

     


    Pricing & Availability

    The RX1R III will be available in July 2025 for approximately $5,099.99 USD and $6,299.99 CAD. The TG-2 for approximately $299.99 USD and $349.99 CAD, the LCS-RXL for approximately $249.99 USD and $224.99 CAD, and the LHP-1 for approximately $199.99 USD and $249.99 CAD, in August 2025. They will be sold directly through Sony and at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

    1Approximate effective

    2Available subject settings are: Auto, Human, Animal, Bird, Insect, Car/Train, and Airplane. Subject types other than the type specified may be erroneously recognized in some cases.

    3It is number of AF measurement points during still image shooting. The number of points varies depending on the shooting mode.

    4Not available for movies.

    5When shooting JPEG images with a 3:2 aspect ratio, the resolution is as follows: At 35 mm: L size (60 megapixels), at 50 mm: M size (29 megapixels), at 70 mm: S size (15 megapixels)

    6ST (Standard), PT (Portrait), NT (Neutral), VV (Vivid), VV2 (Vivid 2), FL (Film), FL2 (Film 2), FL3 (Film 3), IN (Instant), SH (Soft Highkey), BW (Black & White) and SE (Sepia).

    7When using the viewfinder: 270 shots.

    818W (9V/2A) USB PD power source is recommended.

    9Paper material made from bamboo, sugarcane fibers, and post-consumer recycled paper.

    10Excluding materials used in coatings and adhesives.

    11Supported languages differ according to country and region.





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  • Sony Electronics Has Announced Its Most Anticipated RX1R III

    Sony Electronics Has Announced Its Most Anticipated RX1R III


    Sony electronics has announced the third generation camera in its RX1R series, the RX1R III, which is a full frame compact camera featuring a 61 megapixel sensor and a Zeiss 35mm F2 lens. With the RX1R series being a popular one among select photographers, Sony decided to release a new model.

    Sony has used a back-illuminated CMOS image sensor combined with the BIONZ XR image processing engine, that produces high quality images and low noise. The sensor comes with anti-reflective coating which helps to eliminate the optical low-pass filter, resulting in better image quality.

    Image via Sony

    As with most of Sony’s professional cameras in the Alpha series, the RX1R III comes with an AI processing unit that can recognise movements of most subjects, making tracking subjects easy even when their face is not visible. Even though the camera comes with a fixed 35mm lens, the Step Crop shooting function will allow the user to switch between three equivalent focal lengths – 35 mm, 50 mm and 70 mm through assigned buttons/dials. The camera lens also comes with a macro ring, that enables switching to macro mode instantly.

    Following Sony’s “Road to Zero” initiative, the RX1R III and other of Sony’s imaging products are manufactured at facilities that operate on 100% renewable energy. The packaging also comes in environmental friendly material.

    Here are some of the most important features of the Sony RX1R III:

    • Sensor – 61MP full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor
    • ZEISS Sonnar T 35mm F2 lens – fixed
    • BIONZ XR processor 
    • Macro ring for instant macro mode switching – 20 cm minimum focus distance
    • Anti-reflection coating on sensor
    • Step Crop Shooting – 35mm, 50mm, 70mm equivalent
    • 693 phase-detection AF points
    • High iso sensitivity
    • Advanced AI for subject recognition and AF tracking
    • 12 creative presets and 3 film style looks
    • Touch LCD screen
    • Compact and lightweight
    • Battery life: 300 still images
    • USB Type-C port

    If you wish to watch the product video, check the YouTube video below:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-wwnIp7tLs

    And, the concept video can be watched below:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erVGQhslgBA

    The RX1R III also has optional accessories that can be purchased separately:

    • TG-2 – thumb grip that can be attached to the multi-interface shoe, to provide stability when handholding the camera
    • LCS-RXL – protective case for the camera with access to all ports
    • LHP-1 – lens hood that can be attached to the bayonet mount, is lightweight and can protect the lens from impact

    The Sony RX1R III is available to pre-order and will be available by the end of July 2025. The camera will cost approximately $5099.99.

    We have more news for you to read if you are interested at this link here.





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  • Nauticam Releases Housing for the Sony a1 II and a9 III

    Nauticam Releases Housing for the Sony a1 II and a9 III


    Perhaps two of the most exciting pro-level cameras on the market at the moment are Sony’s a1 Mark II and a9 Mark III. The a9 III remains the only full-frame mirrorless camera with a global shutter, giving you jaw-dropping specs like blackout-free continuous shooting at 120fps with AF, no-crop 4K/120p video, and the ability to sync with flash at up to 1/80,000s. (The compromise, however, is the sensor’s relative low pixel count of 24.6MP and base ISO of 250. Meanhile, the a1 II is a different, but equally capable, beast: At 50.1MP, its stacked sensor boasts double the pixels, burst shooting is 20fps in lossless RAW, and there’s both 8K/30p and 4K/120p video recording on offer.

    The kicker is that these two cameras are all but identical externally, so a single housing can accommodate either one… Enter Nauticam’s NA-α1II housing, designed to get the most out both the a1 II and a9 III. Needless to say, ergonomic control placement is foremost: There’s a dual thumb lever alongside the right hangle and a single thumb lever on the left, as well as another left-hand lever operating a customizable button. In addition to fiber-optic ports for your strobes, there’s an M14 accessory port that could be used for an electrical bulkhead if preferred. There’s also a large-bore M24 accessory port for hooking up a monitor/recorder such as the Atomos Ninja V via HDMI 2.0.

    Nauticam’s housing costs $4,920 and is available for from Backscatter now.

     


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


    PRODUCT INFORMATION

    INTRODUCING NA-α1II

    The Sony a1 II and a9 III Cameras

    The Sony a1 II and a9 III Cameras are Sony’s pro-level bodies that cover the entire gamut of imaging requirements for both still and video shooters.

    Sony a1 II

    The a1 II is Sony’s flagship high-resolution camera body with incredible autofocus and impressive video capabilities. Built around a 50MP stacked BSI CMOS sensor and powered by the advanced BIONZ XR processor, the a1 II features upgrades pulled from the a7R V in autofocus, subject tracking, and IBIS. For scenarios demanding high resolution paired with ultra-fast and accurate autofocus and up to 8K30p video, the a1 II can deliver top tier results.

    Key Sony a1 II Camera Specs

    • 50MP Full-Frame Stacked BSI CMOS Sensor

    • 8K 30p and 4K 120p Video in 10-Bit

    • 8.5-Stop IBIS + Dynamic Stabilization

    • 9.44m-Dot EVF with 240 fps Refresh Rate

    • Dual CFexpress Type A/SD Card Slots

    Sony a9 III

    The a9 III fills the role of a high sensitivity sensor with a true global shutter. Capable of shooting 4K 120fps from the full sensor area, the a9 III produces very clean high frame rate video even in less than ideal lighting conditions. The a9 III’s global shutter allows for shooting at incredibly high shutter speeds to maximize available strobe power and recycle time, even in strongly backlit scenes. Shooting into the sun or in high-ambient light scenarios at lower apertures opens up a world of opportunities for both wide and macro photography and also eliminates any rolling shutter effects in video.

    Key Sony a9 III Camera Specs

    • 24.6MP Full-Frame Global Shutter Sensor

    • Flash Sync at up to 1/80,000 Sec.

    • 4K 120p 10-bit Video; S-Log3 & S-Cinetone

    • 759-Point Phase-Detect AF with Tracking

    • 8-Stop 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization

    • 9.44m-Dot EVF with 240 fps Refresh Rate

    • Dual CFexpress Type A/SD Card Slots

    Shared Specs

    The a1 II and a9 III share a body which makes the NA-a1ii housing possible without any adapters, modifications or loss of features.  Both cameras also share the incredible 9.4M-dot electronic viewfinder from the A7RV.  

    THE NA-α1II HOUSING

    The NA-α1II Housing is based on the Nauticam NA-a9III housing and can accommodate both the Sony a1II and a9III camera bodies with no adapters of modifications. This truly makes this housing one of the ultimate underwater imaging tools able to capture high resolution as well as low-light stills and high resolution, low-noise and high-framerate video.


    Mission Control

    The driving force behind Nauticam housings is to place controls where they should be, within easy reach of the ergonomic handles for an intuitive and smooth underwater filming experience. The NA-α1II features a dual action thumb lever on near the right handle that actuates the ‘AF-ON’ and ‘REC’ buttons. Near the left handle is a thumb lever for ‘PLAYBACK’. The shutter release, main and sub command dials are also all within easy reach without taking your hands off the handles.


    Professional Optics

    The NA-α1II housing is built around the N100 port opening allowing for a wide variety of optics solutions from extreme wide-angle to super macro. In addition to supporting traditional wide angle dome port and macro flat-port configurations, the NA-α1II can support much of Nauticam’s range of Water Contact Optics from the Fisheye Conversion Port (FCP) to the Extended Macro Wide Lens (EMWL). To truly unlock the creative possibilities of these two cameras, pairing them with either the WACP-1B, WACP-C or WWL-1B gives impressive 130º rectilinear field-of-view, ~0″ minimum focus distance, full zoom through capabilities and the incredible corner sharpness. If more coverage is needed, the FCP provides 170º fisheye coverage with full zoom through and close focus capabilities. Take your macro imaging to the next level with either increased 2.3X magnification with the new SMC-3 close-up lens or the wide-angle macro look of the EMWL 160º lens.

    EVF Enhancement

    Both the Sony α1II and α9 III feature the same ultra-high resolution 9.4M-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF).  To truly take full advantage of this underwater consider pairing it with one of the Nauticam Enhanced 0.8:1 Viewfinders.  These underwater viewfinders are designed to give full edge-to-edge magnified viewing and include a diopter that can be adjusted underwater to match your vision.

     


    HDMI 2.0

    A large bore M24 bulkhead is located at the front of the housing for use with HDMI 2.0 or HDMI 1.4 (with a step-down adapter to M16) external monitors and recorders.  An additional M10 threaded mounting position near the front center of the housing also makes using an external monitor even easier.


    Vacuum Check and Leak Detection

    The housing comes with electronics pre-installed for Nauticam’s Vacuum Check and Leak Detection system, requiring only the optional M14 Vacuum Valve (25624). This monitoring system provides constant updates on the water tight and safe-to-dive status of the housing. A simple color coded LED lighting system lets the user know that the vacuum is solid, or that the housing is losing vacuum. Leak detection is built into the same circuit, so if there is water intrusion, an audible and visual indication will occur. The Nauticam system is temperature compensated, eliminating false alarms caused by a change in outside temperature, or from a camera heating up on an action packed dive.


    Strobe Triggering

    Triggering of external strobes is accomplished via the integrated fiber-optic bulkheads when using the optional Mini Flash Trigger for Sony (26302).  Electronic triggering is also available via an optional Nikonos or Ikelite Style Bulkhead.

    What’s In The Box:

    • NA-α1II Housing

    • 90120 Spare Main O-ring, o-ring remover, and lubricant

    • CR-2032 Battery (for Moisture Alarm)

    • Set of Allen Keys

    • Instruction Manual Card

    • 2x Optical Bulkhead Caps

    • 2x Handles with Mounting Balls 

    • Padded Housing bag and shoulder strap 

    Recommended Accessories:

    • 25624 M14 Vacuum Valve II (Pushbutton Release)

    • 26302 Mini flash trigger for Sony

    • 25218 Mounting Ball Set for tripod

    • 28130 Hand Strap for 18223

    • 32203 45 viewfinder (slightly vignettes)

    • 32211 Nauticam Full Frame Straight Viewfinder 32 / 1:1

    • 32212 Nauticam Full Frame Straight Viewfinder 40 / 0.8:1

    • 32213 Nauticam Full Frame Angle Viewfinder 32 / 1:1

    • 32214 Nauticam Full Frame Angle Viewfinder 40 / 0.8:1 *32212 / 32214 is preferred

    • 26325 USB-C Bulkhead with USB-C Connector

    • 26326 M24-M16 Adaptor for use with 26325

    • 25413 27cm lanyard with 2 snap hooks

    HDMI Output:

    Required accessories for HDMI 2.0 Cable System

    • 25086 M24 Adaptor for HDMI 2.0 Cable (incl. tightening tool)

    • 25099 M24A2R20-M28A1R170 HDMI 2.0 Cable

    Compatible Monitor Options:

    • 17922 Nauticam Atomos Ninja V Housing for Atomos Ninja V 5” 4kp60 4:2:2 10-bit recorder/monitor/player (excl. HDMI 2.0 Cable

    • 17922S Nauticam Atomos Ninja V-S Housing for Atomos Ninja V 5” 4kp60 4:2:2 10-bit recorder/monitor/player (excl. HDMI 2.0 Cable) with AtomX SDI Module

    Required accessories for HDMI 1.4 Cable System:

    • 26326 M24-M16 Adaptor

    • 25100 HDMI )D-A) 1.4 Cable in 200mm length (for connection from HDMI bulkhead to camera)

    • 25033 standard HDMI bulkhead with M16 thread (incl in 17923 Shinobi-H housing)

    Compatible Monitor Options:

    • 17923 NA-Shinobi-H Housing for Atomos Shinobi 5.2” 4k HDMI Monitor with HDMI 1.4 input.

    • 17922 Nauticam Atomos Ninja V Housing for Atomos Ninja V 5” 4kp60 4:2:2 10-bit recorder/monitor/player (excl. HDMI 2.0 Cable

    • 25082 HDMI 1.4 Canle for Ninja V housing in 0.75m length (for connection for Ninja V housing to bulkhead) *25082 v1.4 cable is required for use with 17922 monitor housing. 

    Technical Specifications

    • Dimensions: 347mm(W) x 171mm(H) x 127mm(D)

    • Weight in Air: 2.65kg

    • Buoyancy in Water: 0.48kg (incl. camera & battery)


    Model Number: 17438

    USA Retail Price: $4,920.00

    More information is available from Nauticam at: www.nauticam.com





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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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