Sony has started the usual late summer/early fall, get-ready-for-camera-announcements series by announcing two new compact, full-frame mirrorless cameras and a new high-end lens.  

Both cameras—the a7C II and the a7C R—are similar in design, and like the original a7C, are compact and lightweight (two features that are sure to appeal to photographers who want to streamline their gear or want an easy-to-carry camera for travel or street photography). The 33-megapixel a7C II measures 4.88 x 2.8 x 2.5 inches (w x h x d) and weighs approximately 18.1 ounces. Similarly, the 61-megapixel a7C R (R = resolution) has almost exactly the same size and weight specs. 

While the EVF and LCD aren’t the highest resolution—an issue many had with the original a7C—the EVF is brighter, and the LCD gets a slight bump in resolution, so there’s at least a little improvement. IBIS has improved, too, up to 7 stops. 

In addition to similar physical specifications and design, the two new cameras utilize Sony’s latest BIONZ XR processor, the same as the Sony a7R. Along with the processing power, both cameras also take advantage of Sony’s excellent AI subject detection which includes people, animals as well as birds, insects, cars, trains, and airplanes. Like the new APS-C a6700, the a7C II and a7C R can target people even when their eyes/faces aren’t visible thanks to the camera’s ability to recognize human poses to identify people.  

Video options have been updated since the original a7C was introduced. In addition to 4K/60p (over sampled from 7K and 6K for the a7C II and a7C R, respectively), users have access to S-Log 3 for 14+ steps of dynamic range as well as user upload-able LUTs and Sony’s signature S-Cinetone. If you’re a solo shooter, you’ll love the camera’s AI-based Auto Framing. Essentially, this feature follows your subject and automatically adjusts the frame to keep the subject centered (albeit cropped) giving the visual impression that you have an extra camera operator. I’ve used it on the Sony a6700 and it works perfectly. It’s also handy for streaming or online demos. Tap on an object via the Creators’ App on your smart device, and the focus will move away from you and onto the object you’re demonstrating. 

If the a7C R’s 61 megapixels is too much for some shoots, there are smaller sized Raw formats to choose from. Or, if you need to go in the other direction, check out the multi-shot feature that expertly combines 16 shots for a 240+ megapixel file. You’ll need to process it using Sony’s Imaging Edge software though. 

These cameras are a good step forward for the a7C line and will be available this fall for $2,200 for the a7C II and $3,000 for the a7C R.  

Before we sign off, we have to say, we’re even more excited about the new wide-angle lens announced along with the two cameras—the FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II. This full-frame G Master zoom features a new optical design that delivers high resolution throughout the zoom range. Look for a minimum shooting distance of 0.22mm along with speedy performance, quiet operation, and minimal focus breathing. And, at 4.4 inches in length and 1.21 pounds, it’s really compelling. Available this fall for about $2,300. 

For more information about the new cameras and zoom lens: www.sony.com. 

Camera 101