Sony Releases Two New Alpha 7C Series Cameras
The Alpha 7C II (model ILCE-7CM2) and Alpha 7C R (model ILCE-7CR) are new additions to Sony’s Alpha 7C family of tiny full-frame interchangeable lens cameras. The Alpha 7C II provides the latest still image and video functionalities and performance in a compact and lightweight design, as well as a full-frame image sensor with about 33.0 effective megapixels. It is the second-generation version of the Alpha7 C, which is renowned for combining performance and features in a small package, making it ideal for various shooting conditions, such as travel and street photography.
The Alpha 7C R is a new compact full-frame interchangeable lens camera that packs the high-resolution and rich gradation performance of a full-size picture sensor with about 61.0 effective megapixels, found in the Alpha 7R V, into a tiny and lightweight design. It readily captures high-quality images in a wide range of settings, such as portrait, wildlife, and landscape photography, satisfying the requirements of creative work with mobility.
Both versions include the same AI-processing unit and BIONZ XR processors as Sony’s most recent interchangeable lens cameras, the Alpha 7R V and Alpha 6700. Real-time Recognition AF accurately recognizes a wide range of targets, and 5-axis in-body image stabilization delivers a 7.0 step shooting advantage when producing still images. In terms of video performance, both models enable 4:2:2 10-bit video recording up to 4K60p, as well as Sony’s famed S-Cinetone color science for rich cinematic footage. They also have Active Mode in-body image stabilization, AI-based auto-framing, digital-audio interface support, and other high-quality video shooting features.
“At Sony, we’re committed to continually raising the bar and elevating standards for content creators. With the introduction of the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R models, we’re offering an innovative solution that serves creators in both photography and videography. This fresh addition to their toolkit ensures top-tier imagery and visual performance across our state-of-the-art imaging devices. By fusing advanced technology with user-friendly design, we’re empowering content creators to realize their artistic vision like never before,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics.
Main Features of the Alpha 7C II
Equipped with a full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor with approximately 33.0 effective megapixels and the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine to achieve high imaging performance. For capturing either still images or movies, users can easily enjoy high-quality image capture in a wide range of scenes such as travel and daily snapshots. Compared to the Alpha 7 IV which is approximately 5.1 inches x 3.8 inches x 3.2 inches and weighs approximately 1.54 lbs, the Alpha 7C II is approximately 22% lighter and has approximately 45% less volume. The standard ISO sensitivities range from 100 to 51200 for both still images and movies (expanded ISO 50 to 204800 for still images), enabling high-sensitivity, noise-free shooting.
Main Features of the Alpha 7C R
Equipped with a full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor with approximately 61.0 effective megapixels and the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine to achieve high-resolution and high-definition imaging performance. Compared to the Alpha 7R V which is approximately 5.25 inches x 3.875 inches x 3.25 inches and weighs approximately 1.6 lbs, the Alpha 7C R is approximately 29% lighter and has approximately 53% less volume. The standard ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 32000 for both still images and movies (expanded ISO 50 to 102400 for still images). In addition, with 7.0-step optical 5-axis in-body image stabilization, even slight blurring at the 1-pixel level is detected and corrected. Equipped with Pixel Shift Multi Shooting that takes multiple images and combines them on a PC to create an ultra-high resolution image. By combining with the grip extension GP-X2 included with the Alpha 7C Rv, you can shoot comfortably with a stable hold even when shooting for long periods of time or using a telephoto lens.
Here are some sample pictures taken with the Alpha 7C II:
Common Features of the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R
1. Compact size and high mobility
Both models are easy to handle and easy to carry. Compact size (both models are approximately 4.88 in wide x 2.8 in high x 2.5 in deep) and weigh approximately 18.1 oz for the Alpha 7C II and approximately 18.2 oz for the Alpha 7C R. When combined with the wide-angle zoom lens, FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II, announced today, it achieves the excellent image expression and high-speed AF that are unique to the G Master series, with the brightness of F2.8 at full zoom range.
2. AF performance with improved subject recognition performance thanks to the built-in AI processing unit
Equipped with the same AI-processing unit as the Alpha 7R V, which recognizes subjects with high accuracy with Real-time Recognition AF. For example, when taking a picture of a person, even if the subject strikes a complicated pose or their face is hidden, human-pose estimation technology can be used to capture and track the subject with high accuracy. In addition to the existing tracking capabilities for people and animals already found in the Alpha 7C series, it is now possible to recognize birds, insects, cars, trains, and airplanes as subjects in the new models.
3) Advanced video performance
The Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7C R condense high-resolution and detailed video data equivalent to 7K and 6K, respectively, and can output high-quality 4K video. Equipped with S-Log3, which supports a wide latitude of 14+ stops, it renders rich gradation with little overexposure and underexposure even in scenes with contrast. Also, in Log shooting mode, the LUT imported by the user can be displayed on the camera monitor image, allowing the user to shoot while checking the finished image in post-production. In addition, it is equipped with S-Cinetone, a unique Sony feature that can create a cinematic look straight out of the camera without post-processing. Based on Sony’s Cinema Line technology, S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones that are essential to healthy-looking skin color and deliver cinematic quality. It also features Creative Look, which allows you to easily change the look and feel of video and still images.
4) Operability and connectivity
Equipped with a touch-operable vari-angle LCD monitor, intuitive operation with the latest touch menu supports comfortable shooting. In addition to the new front dial that allows the user to assign their favorite functions, the still image/movie/S&Q switch dial, and an XGA high-resolution viewfinder, etc., the camera is easy to use. The camera is equipped with a 7.0-step optical 5-axis in-body image stabilization to support stable camera work.
In terms of connectivity, the camera is compatible with the smartphone application Creators’ Appvii that uploads videos and still images taken with the camera to a cloud service, while allowing remote camera operation and image transfer from the camera to mobile devices. By the end of September 2023, Sony plans to support a new version of the software development kit Camera Remote SDK that enables remote operation and settings adjustments.
The new Alpha 7C II AND ALPHA 7C R will be available in Fall 2023 at $2199.99 and $2999.99, respectively.
