Camera Sony A7S, the review of which is presentedThis article debuted in the domestic market in 2014. The model became a logical continuation of the line of full-frame devices from this manufacturer, that a year earlier they made a real revolution in their segment, becoming the most compact cameras in it. At this time, the Japanese developers managed to make a revolution in terms of creating images with a mirrorless camera in extremely low light conditions.
Design
Outwardly, the novelty is very similar to itspredecessors - models A7 and A7R. Dimensions of the case, made of magnesium alloy, are 126.9 x94.4x48.2 millimeters. The device weighs 446 grams. Thus, at the time of its appearance on the market, the Sony A7S camera became the most compact full-frame camera with an interchangeable lens on the planet. The model created in retro-style looks and is perceived as a very expensive thing. In fact, the way it is. The case has a headphone jack and a stereo microphone. On the back side, you can find a three-inch LCD display equipped with a swivel mechanism, as well as a viewfinder, whose resolution is 2.4 million points.
As evidenced by the numerous leftowners of the model Sony A7S reviews, when shooting a video, there are certain inconveniences. This is due to the fact that the screen is not touch, which is a little disappointing in such an expensive camera.
Optics
Before buying this kind of camera, expertsIt is recommended to check the range of optics that is provided for it. The choice of full-frame lenses for this model, as of today, can be called very scarce. The greatest interest of the lenses currently on the market is the Zeiss 24-70 mm f / 4. It is perfect for creating photos and videos, but it is quite expensive. Using third-party lenses here is not entirely appropriate, since their installation will require special adapters, for which you also need to pay. In addition, in such cases, optical stabilization and the speed of the automatic focus are usually affected. One more way out could be called lenses with bayonet A, however, they are notable for their large weight and dimensions, in connection with which the compactness of the camera is leveled. One can only hope that the great demand for the model will lead to the fact that the Japanese will increase the range of FE lenses in the near future.
Matrix
Camera Sony A7S is equipped with full-frame35.2 Exmor CMOS 12.2 megapixel matrix. She boasts a phenomenal sensitivity. In particular, the ISO size when shooting is in the range from 50 to 409600, and when creating videos - from 100 to 409600. At the same time, it should be noted that the noise level is quite low. Compared to many other consumer-grade full-frame cameras, the model is slightly more pixel-sized. In other words, this means that each point is able to collect more light.
Control
For the adjustment of essential functionsexposure (aperture, shutter speed and ISO) in the camera Sony A7S has three dials. Most of the buttons can be programmed to perform alternative functions. In the most easily accessible and convenient places, developers have installed shortcuts to the most important quick access settings. A significant drawback here can be called the fact that a perceptible feedback does not have a shutter button. When the electronic shutter is turned on, there is no sound signal, so the user may not know that the device has started shooting. For some reason, the button for direct launching of video recordings is rather inconvenient, which is very strange for a device that is positioned as a camera for creating videos.
Image quality
As noted above, the camera hasmatrix of 12.2 megapixels. In this regard, photos taken with the help of Sony A7S can be printed in good resolution even on sheets of A-4 format. At the same time, with its further increase, the quality of images is significantly lost. For users who are not used to printing photos, the only drawback will be the limited possibilities associated with their cropping. Anyway, very few people use this feature often. In all other respects, there are no special complaints about the quality of the images.
This delight evokes the ability of thiscameras shoot in low light conditions. In terms of detail and noise, the model outperforms the majority of competitors in its class. The sensitivity of the device in more detail was discussed earlier. Not surprisingly, the camera shows great flexibility when taking photos and videos. Thus, the user does not need to carry with him constantly additional equipment, which, however, does not always have a positive effect.
Video shooting
Now a few words about creating videos withSony A7S model assistance. Characteristics of the device allow you to shoot videos in resolutions of 1080p or 720p. In this case, the frame rate under these modes is different. If in the first case their number in one second is 24, 30 or 60, then in the second - 120. In order to record in 4K format, it is necessary to purchase external media, since it does not provide for the possibility of storing information on the internal drive. Whatever the case, there are no restrictions associated with other modes. Moreover, the quality of the captured videos is at a very high level. Reviews of the owners of the device indicate that the picture is clear and crystal clear, and there are no moire patterns typical of ordinary consumer cameras. According to representatives of the manufacturer, this was achieved largely due to the use of the XAVC codec.
Oriented mainly to the video modelThe Sony A7S not only makes hardware features, but also software features. One of its most interesting features in this regard is the presence of color profiles, thanks to which it is possible to make a qualitative correction of the material obtained.
Ergonomics and operation
High quality materials that are used whenproduction of the camera, you can feel already at the first touch to it. Thanks to the compact size of the body and the standard lens, the device can be worn without straining all day. On the handle there is a ledge convenient for a thumb, thanks to which the device is comfortable even in one hand. At the same time, when using larger lenses adapted from other models, one gets the impression of some imbalance.
According to reviews of the owners of Sony A7S,the model is poorly protected from weather and dust surprises, and also not quite suitable for normal operation in extreme conditions compared to similar devices in its price segment.
Autonomy
Standard device includes tworechargeable batteries. This is due to the fact that in this model, compared with the SLR digital cameras, they sit pretty quickly. Owner reviews indicate that a full charge of one battery lasts an average of 525 shots. You can charge the camera through a compact and convenient device or directly through the micro USB port, which is very convenient when traveling.
Overall Impression
Summing up, it should be noted that the modelIt has many advantages and some disadvantages compared to other members of its class. Anyway, people who want to get something better than the popular full-frame Canon cameras for about the same money should definitely pay attention to this device. At the time of its birth, it could boast a good reserve for the future, especially if its owner had the opportunity to spend several hundred dollars on an external drive to record videos in 4K format. Today, the Sony A7S model can be called a worthy compromise option for those who are interested in both photo and video.
