Sony a7III Review - The Only Thing Entry Level Is the Price

Sony a7III Review

This camera really redefines what it means to offer an entry-level full frame camera. With the a7III, Sony even seems willing to risk sales of their higher end models. Packed inside is a redesigned 24MP sensor, using the newer backside illuminated design for improved lowlight performance. Capable of 10 frames per second (silent or mechanical shutter) with In Body Image Stabilization (IBIS). Sony borrowed from the a9 with 693 autofocus points using Eye-AF and tracking better than the Sony a7RIII. Videographers should also be happy shooting 4K with HLG(HDR) and S-Log2 and S-Log3 - feature serious videographers will appreciate. And the addition of a touchscreen for touch to focus improves the usability of the camera and makes shooting video easier too. As an entry-level full frame camera, the Sony a7III doesn't pull any punches.

• Redesigned 24MP Sensor

• 693 AF Points with A9s Eye-AF system (Better than a7Riii)

• 15 stop Dynamic Range

• 5 axis IBIS

• 10fps with 14 bit raw (also 14 bit raw while silent)

• 4k HDR, 6k full readout, Slog 2 & 3 and HLG

• Uses Z Battery Rated at 710 shots longest battery life of any mirrorless camera ever (We got a ton more photos than that in real-world use, 4,000!)

• Dual SDcard slots, joystick, touchscreen, USB-C

Short answer? Buy this now, seriously here's the link to Amazon.As it stands the a7III is the entry-level full frame to beat. 

Sony a7III ISO

Sony a7iii s-log

As a big point for this series, the body and user interface have been redesigned with a joystick, touchscreen, and dual card slots. At 710 shots per charge with a newly redesigned battery, it has the highest shot count of any mirrorless camera to date. After taking 2,000 photos and using the camera all day at 20 percent left the a7III still got another 2,000 shots from a timelapse... on a single battery!The a7III can go up 204,800 ISO in Extended Mode, and in testing, this camera is pretty good. At 51,200 ISO we found that images are still usable at least for social media purposes. Versus the a7RIII results are similar but the a7RIII does have a slight advantage at higher ISO. Versus the Canon 6d MarkII up to 12,800 ISO, the Canon compares quite well, then the a7III starts to have much better photos.The Eye-AF system is BETTER than the a7RIII! And it’s REALLY good in the A7RIII! For cases where that's not an option, the focus point joystick can change points on the go. In darker scenes focus is good, Eye-AF does struggle in lower light if it can't recognize an eye. Otherwise set to medium spot it grabs focus well in those situations, as well as some of the other automated focus modes. Lock on tracking is nice but in testing, it does miss on occasion in our experience but overall it still works great.Buffering was an issue with previous Sony cameras, filling up, and locking you out of some options. The a7III is improved. Also, the a7III does not have apps, just like the a7RIII and a9. No timelapse or reflection app but there's always other options such as the Miops mobile or dropping S&Q to one frame a second. [Timelapse options on Sony a9, a7Riii, a7iii]For video, you get 1080p at 30/60/120 fps up to 100 Mbits a second, it also has 4k at 30 and 24 fps at 8 bit.  Super 35 and full frame (both work in 4k and 1080p) are equally sharp and give you more options for shooting as the crop ratio can help you get closer or wider when needed. 4k at 30fps does have a 1.2 crop, 24fps is a full frame readout. ISO up to 6400 is good, 12800 is a pinch, reducing 4k to 1080p does reduce a lot of noise. For editing, you'll be good with access to S-Log 2 and 3 and multiple picture styles. Proxy support is included as well, a second smaller copy recorded alongside the 4K file that allows you edit on a laptop, having the ability to swap it out with the 4K file laterInterested in how the a7III stacks up to the a7RIII? Check out Photorec.tv/a73vs for the full comparison. Really, 42MP plus pixel shift is what you get with the a7RIII. But, for those that don't need the megapixels, this is more than you need and you can spend the extra cash on a new lens.For $2,000? The Sony a7III is just worth it, as an entry level full frame Sony wants to dominate the space. This camera lives up to the hype with a 24mp sensor, great autofocus, and 10 fps for any professional shoot. The redesigned body and UI is great and much better to use than previous generations. Then there's a battery that can shoot up to 4,000 shots, 4K with video options, and IBIS... This is the entry-level full frame to beat.

Sony a7III Available for Preorder Today

Sony a7III review

Body Only for Just $1999

Amazon

B&H Photo

FE 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens KitAmazon | B&HVario-Tessar FE 24-70mm f/4ZA OSS Lens KitAmazon | B&HFE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens KitAmazon | B&H

Basic Specs

• 24MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor

• BIONZ X Image Processor & Front-End LSI

• 693-Point Hybrid AF System

• UHD 4K30p Video with HLG & S-Log3 Gammas

• 2.36m-Dot Tru-Finder OLED EVF

• 3.0" 922k-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD

• 5-Axis SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization

• ISO 204800 and 10 fps Shooting

• Built-In Wi-Fi and NFC, Dual SD Slots

• USB Type-C Port, Weather-Sealed Design

Sample Photos

Nikon D850 Hands-on Review | Sample Images

The Nikon D850 is easily the best DSLR on the markethttps://youtu.be/foxvRAw3fI0Highlights of the Nikon D850

• This camera feels wonderful in the hand and offers a control layout that just works really well - except auto ISO dial, it's a little awkward to switch that on and off- but bracketing, focus modes, the excellent and dedicated focus nub all make for an extremely pleasing operation.

• Lighted buttons, something they started with the D500 and standing under the stars a few nights ago in Acadia NP - all the other photographers on the trip were quite jealous of my softly illuminated buttons that make low light and night photography a dream

• Beautiful big bright viewfinder AND a vibrant and gorgeous screen that is fully touch-enabled the menus work, touch to focus works even with heavy ND filters on AND it is articulated - though like Sony only tilting.

• Additional features - like intervalometer that makes possible an 8k time lapse - you can drop to 4k and have the video created in camera. The 8k just produces stills that you need to use software to turn into a video. Focus peaking through frustratingly it doesn’t work when shooting 4k, only at 1080p, focus shift for stacking and creating images with huge depth of field which can be useful in some situations.

• Awesome image quality- excellent image quality with lots of room to brighten the shadows before you see noise and great higher ISO performance AND a 45mp sensor. Zooming on these images is lovely - so much detail, so much room to crop.

• 4k video, that isn't cropped AND this is all packaged in a capable and versatile camera.

• Impressive AF system,

• Access to all of Nikon lenses

• Greatly improved live view experience vs past Nikon cameras

Negatives of the Nikon D850

• Focus during video is terrible, extremely distracting slow, hunting- you can use an AF-P lens and it gets a little smoother but still nothing like the dual pixel AF of Canon or Sony’s smooth AF system.

• Shooting video without a viewfinder is difficult in brighter conditions and the focus peaking that Nikon nicely added doesn’t work during 4k filming

• DSLR focusing systems often need AF adjustments to work their best and while Nikon provides an in-camera system for adjusting focus - it is limiting and I have images that are out of focus due to alignment or shutter shock or mirror slap.

• Disappointing battery life if you find yourself using the screen often

• Customizable buttons are limited in what you can assign

• It’s a BIG camera. Sure for some of you that’s a check mark in the pro column but after using a variety of mirrorless cameras over the last year I appreciate a smaller, lighter camera and yes, if using a full frame Sony as you start to add lenses the weight savings start to disappear but you at least have the option of traveling much lighter at times with lightweight lenses.

Nikon D850 vs D500

The D500 is a little lighter (155g lighter) a little faster (10 fps vs 7fps, though you can bump that up with the battery grip for the Nikon D850) and you get more reach with the D500 crop sensor and can use lighter, smaller crop lenses BUT the D850 has a crop mode that will give you that same extra reach and provides excellent edge to edge AF coverage. The D850 also does much better in low light with that full frame sensor.Buy the D500 if you are dedicated wildlife or sports/action photographer and spend the savings on a nice telephoto lens.Everyone else should buy the D850 for it's excellent all-around image quality and low light performance.Should you upgrade from the Nikon D750. Honestly, the D750 is still one of the best values in DSLRs on the market and continues to perform well. Only upgrade if you have been frustrated with low light performance or AF system.

D850

D850

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Sigma 24-105

Sigma 24-105

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D500

D500

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Sample Nikon D850 Photos

All in all, I would be very happy to use this camera for landscapes where I can use the screen and know that focus is really dialed in. Throw the very sharp sigma 24-105 f/4 on and you have a killer combination. But these days I do appreciate a lighter camera and will often choose a Sony over the Nikon. Especially the new Sony a7R III Use the link squarespace.com/photorectv to save 10% off your purchase of a site or domain name and find the link below for a more helpful guide.

Nikon D850 Announced

Nikon has announced the D850 with release date and price!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h539j9JJbt0Early leaks were accurate and Nikon’s latest DSLR looks like an excellent offering combining serious resolution and decent speed - making the D850 suited for everything from portraiture to sports. The Nikon D850 offers a 45.7 MP BSI CMOS sensor. Sony has been using these Backside Illuminated (BSI) sensors and it allows for much better low light performance. Capable of 7fps, 9fps when you attach the MD-18 a/b battery grip. The focusing system is identical to the flagship Nikon D5, 153 AF points with 99 cross-type sensors. With video, the D850 offers full frame (no crop) 4K at 24, 25 and 30fps. Borrowing from mirrorless we have focus peaking but only at 1080p and highlight warnings in video.The body looks like a grown up D500 - offering a 3.2” tilting TOUCH screen. Dual card slots- an XQD and a standard SD slot. Updated Snapbrige for control and sharing of images. Nikon also offers a more robust Wifi adapter for faster transfer - useful for serious sports photographers sharing images immediately from events. The D850 also offers illuminated buttons, like the D500. As someone that has just returned from teaching an astrophotography workshop in Joshua Tree - I love the softly lit buttons, it just makes the camera that much easier to operate in low light conditions.Pre-Order Nikon D850

Pre-Order Nikon MB-D18 Battery Grip

Specs

	Nikon D850	Nikon D810
Lens Mount	Nikon F bayonet mount	Nikon F bayonet mount
Max Resolution	45.4 MP: 8256 x 5504	36.3 million: 7360 x 4912
Image Sensor Format	FX (Full-Frame) CMOS, 35.9 x 24.0 mm	FX (Full-Frame) CMOS, 35.9 x 23.9 mm
Bit Depth	14-Bit	14-Bit
Lens Compatibility at a Glance	AF-S or AF lenses fully compatible Metering with AI lenses	AF-S or AF lenses fully compatible Metering with AI lenses
Top Continuous Shooting Speed at full resolution	7 frames per second, 9 with battery grip.	5 frames per second
Shutter	Type: Electronic & MechanicalSpeed: 30 - 1/8000 Seconds , Bulb Mode	30 - 1/8000 Second , Bulb Mode
Autofocus Points	Phase Detection: 153 (99 Cross-Type)	51 (15 Cross-Type)
Dynamic AF Mode	Number of AF points: 9, 25, 72, or 153 point dynamic-area AF, 3D-tracking, group-area AF	Number of AF points: 9, 21, 51 and 51 (3D-tracking)
ISO Sensitivity	ISO 64 -  25,600Can also be set to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, or 1 EV (ISO 32 equivalent) below ISO 64 or to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, or 2 EV (ISO 102,400 equivalent) above ISO 25,600; auto ISO sensitivity control available	ISO 64 -  12,800Lo-1 (ISO 32)Hi-1 (ISO 25,600)Hi-2 (ISO 51,200)
File Format Still Images	JPEG: JPEG-Baseline compliant with fine (approx 1:4), normal (approx 1:8), or basic (approx 1:16) compression (Size priority); Optimal quality compression availableNEF (RAW) + JPEG: Single Photograph Recorded in both NEF (RAW) and JPEG FormatsNEF (RAW): 12 or 14 bit, lossless compressed, compressed, or uncompressed; large, medium, and small available (medium and small images are recorded at a bit depth of 12 bits using lossless compression)TIFF (RGB)	JPEG: JPEG-Baseline Compliant; can be selected from Size Priority and Optimal QualityJPEG: JPEG-Baseline Compliant with Fine (approx 1:4), Normal (approx 1:8) or Basic (approx 1:16) CompressionNEF (RAW): 12 or 14 bit, lossless compressed, compressed, or uncompressed; small size available (12-bit uncompressed only)NEF (RAW) + JPEG: Single Photograph Recorded in both NEF (RAW) and JPEG FormatsTIFF (RGB)
Video	4K UHD 3,840x2,160 / 30 fps4K UHD 3,840x2,160 / 25 fps4K UHD 3,840x2,160 / 24 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 60 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 50 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 30 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 25 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 24 fpsHD 1,280x720 / 60 fpsHD 1,280x720 / 50 fpsSlow-motion: Full HD 1,920x1,080 30p (x4)Slow-motion: Full HD 1,920x1,080 25p (x4)Slow-motion: Full HD 1,920x1,080 24p (x5)Actual frame rates for 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p are 59.94, 50, 29.97, 25, and 23.976 fps respectivelyQuality selection available at all sizes except 3,840 x 2,160 (when quality is fixed at high) and 1,920 x 1,080 slow-motion (when quality is fixed at normal)	Full HD 1,920x1,080 / 60 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 50 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 30 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 25 fpsFull HD 1,920x1,080 / 24 fpsHD 1,280x720 / 60 fpsHD 1,280x720 / 50 fps
Playback Functions	Auto Image RotationFull-frame and thumbnail (4, 9, or 72 images)HighlightsHistogram DisplayLocation DisplayMovie PlaybackMovie SlideshowPhoto InformationPhoto SlideshowPicture RatingPlayback with ZoomPlayback Zoom Cropping	Auto Image RotationFull-frame and thumbnail (4, 9, or 72 images)HighlightsHistogram DisplayImage CommentMovie PlaybackMovie SlideshowPlayback with ZoomSlideshow
Live View Shooting	Photography Live View ModeMovie Live View Mode	Photography Live View ModeMovie Live View Mode
Built-in Flash	--	Yes
Flash Bracketing	2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV	2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV
Max Sync Speed	1 / 250 Second	1 / 250 Second
Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)	CLS Supported	CLS Supported
Exposure Bracketing	2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV	2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV
White Balance Bracketing	2 to 9 exposures in increments of 1, 2 or 3 EV	2 to 9 exposures in increments of 1, 2 or 3 EV
Monitor	3.2 in. diagonal TFT LCD. 2,359,000 Resolution.	3.2 in. diagonal TFT LCD. 1,229,000 Resolution.
Touchscreen	Yes	--
Tilting Screen	Yes	--
Storage Media	1 XQD card and 1 Secure Digital (SD) cardSDSDHC (UHS-II compliant)SDXC (UHS-II compliant)XQD Type Memory	CompactFlash© (CF) (Type I, compliant with UDMA)SDSDHCSDXC
Card Slot	1  XQD card and 1 Secure Digital (SD) card	1 CompactFlash© (CF) card and 1 Secure Digital (SD) card
Viewfinder Type	Pentaprism	Pentaprism
Viewfinder Frame Coverage	FX (36x24):100% horizontal and 100% vertical(Approx.)1.2x (30x20):97% horizontal and 97% vertical(Approx.)DX (24x16):97% horizontal and 97% vertical(Approx.)5:4 (30x24):97% horizontal and 100% vertical(Approx.)1:1 (24x24):97% horizontal and 100% vertical(Approx.)	FX (36x24):100% horizontal and 100% vertical(Approx.)1.2x (30x20):97% horizontal and 97% vertical(Approx.)DX (24x16):97% horizontal and 97% vertical(Approx.)5:4 (30x24):97% horizontal and 100% vertical(Approx.)
Viewfinder Magnification	0.75x (50 mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, –1.0 m–1)(Approx.)	0.70x(Approx.)
Dust Reduction System	Yes	Yes
Wi-Fi Capable	Yes	Yes (with Optional Transmitter)
Operating/Storage Temperature	Operating32 to 104°F (0 to 40°C)Humidity: 0 - 85%	Operating32 to 104°F (0 to 40°C)Humidity: 0 - 85%
Battery	EN-EL15a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery.Battery Life: 1,840 shots (CIPA) / Approx. 70 minutes of HD footage	EN-EL15 Lithium-ion BatteryBattery Life: 1,200shots (CIPA)
Approx. Dimensions(Width x Height x Depth)	5.8 in. ( 146 mm) x 4.9 in.( 124 mm) x 3.1 in. ( 78.5mm)	5.8 in. ( 146 mm) x 4.9 in.( 123 mm) x 3.3 in. ( 81.5mm)
Approx. Weight	Body only: 32.3 oz. ( 915 g)	Body only: 31.1 oz. ( 880 g)

Videohttps://youtu.be/bxWFUEmTH68Press release

August 24, 2017

Full-Frame, Extreme Speed & Epic Resolution: The New Nikon D850 DSLR Defines Professional VersatilityNew Nikon DSLR Offers Incredible Combination of Performance, Image Quality and Thoughtful Features

MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon announced the new Nikon D850, a powerful full-frame DSLR camera that provides professional photographers and multimedia creators with an impressive combination of resolution and high-speed performance. The 45.7-megapixel D850 is Nikon’s first DSLR with an FX-format, back-side Illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor for image quality that is nothing short of majestic, allowing professionals to create stunning, high resolution still images and full-frame 4K UHD video. Despite its monumental resolution, the D850 is capable of an astoundingly fast capture rate of up to 7 frames-per-second (fps) or 9-fps with the optional battery grip and EN-EL18a/b battery, while offering a range of new user-friendly features requested by Nikon shooters around the world.

The Nikon D850 is a serious tool that expertly enables every kind of photographer. Whether capturing for client work or personal projects, the camera delivers intense clarity and accurate skin tones for portraits, with the added benefit of low-light ability for weddings and events. It is versatile enough to be used for landscapes and fine art where broad dynamic range is critical, for sports that require a high frame rate and decisive AF, or for video creators who want 4K UHD flexibility. Whether in the studio or on-location, from the catwalk or the scenic overlook, to a wedding ceremony or night sky, the Nikon D850 is the tool that can capture it all, with astounding resolution and speed.

“The Nikon D850 is much more than a camera, rather it’s a statement that Nikon is continuing to listen to customer needs, to innovate for the next 100 years, and bring to market a full-frame DSLR that exceeds the expectations of the professionals that rely on this caliber of camera to make a living,” said Kosuke Kawaura, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc.

“I have had the pleasure of putting this camera through its paces, and there is nothing like it. The Nikon D850 introduces a whole new generation of photographers to medium format quality; the resolution is out of this world, and the tonality and range are at a level I never thought possible from a DSLR,” said Nikon Ambassador and award-winning wedding photographer Jerry Ghionis.

The Ultimate Combination of Resolution and SpeedThe Nikon D850 is the new benchmark in DSLR image quality, with an unprecedented combination of resolution, dynamic range, ISO and processing power. The 45.7-megapixel CMOS sensor approaches medium format-level resolution and forgoes an optical low pass filter (OLPF) to harness the maximum sharpness of NIKKOR lenses, with fantastic fidelity, tonality and clarity. This is also Nikon’s first DSLR to incorporate a BSI CMOS sensor, which captures light more efficiently, resulting in a wider dynamic range and low-noise image capture. Beyond the immense resolution, the Nikon D850 offers photographers superior performance:High-Speed Capture: The D850 is capable of shooting up to 7 fps at full resolution, with full AF/AE or 9 fps at full resolution with the addition of an optional battery grip (MB-D18) and EN-EL18a/b battery (Buffer approximately 51 frames of 14-bit lossless RAW capture / 170 frames of 12-bit lossless).Wide ISO Range: The D850 offers a wide ISO range from 64-25,600 (Expandable down to ISO 32, up to 102,400).Flagship Focus System: The D850 uses the Nikon D5’s 153-point, Multi-Cam 20K AF system, which features 99 cross type sensors, 15 of which are sensitive to f/8.EXPEED 5: Behind every great sensor is a great image-processing engine. EXPEED 5 is Nikon’s most powerful engine yet, allowing for fast data readout and swift image processing, improved low light performance, high speed shooting, full-frame 4K UHD video capture and greater power efficiency for longer battery life.

Innovation Built for the Needs of Professional CreatorsIn addition to its phenomenal performance, the Nikon D850 hosts a range of innovative and thoughtful new features that enhance workflow, and will leave every photographer or content creator wondering how they ever lived without them:Tilting LCD Touchscreen: The 3.2-in., high resolution (2359k-dot) LCD monitor offers Nikon’s most extensive touch functionality ever.Silent Shooter: The D850 offers the ability to operate with an electronic shutter in Live View. When in this mode, users can shoot in complete silence, which is ideal for weddings, ceremonies and events where the shutter sound is discouraged. The electronic shutter operates at up to 6 fps (AF/AE locked) at full resolution, while an additional mode enables 8.6-megapixel capture in DX image area mode at up to 30 fps.Radio Flash Control: Like the D5 and D500, the D850 also supports Radio-controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting with the optional SB-5000 Speedlight and WR-A10 and WR-R10 accessories.RAW Processing Power: Users can choose from 3 sizes of RAW files to enhance workflow, including Large (45.4-MP), Medium (25.6-MP) and Small (11.4-MP). Additionally, the D850 lets users batch process RAW files in camera, saving time in post-production.Phenomenal Battery Performance: Shoot all day and well into the night with up to 1,840 shots at full resolution or approximately 70 minutes of video on a single charge. Users who opt for the additional control and handling benefits of the optional battery grip can expect up to 5140 shots (CIPA standard).Focus Stacking: Ideal for macro, product and landscape photographers, the Focus Shift Photography feature of the D850 is high resolution meets high magnification. This feature lets the user automatically shoot up to 300 shots at adjustable focus step intervals to infinity which can be easily assembled into a focus-stacked image using third party software.Negative/Positive Scanning: With the optional ES-2 Film Digitizing Adapter and compatible Micro-NIKKOR lens, the camera enables super high-resolution digitizing of 35mm slides or negatives and converts them in-camera to positivesDurable Construction: Ready for any field assignment or production environment, the rugged and weather-sealed magnesium alloy body lets users work with confidence in a wide range of tough environments.Square shooter: Photographers can choose from five formats, including FX-format, 1.2x, DX, 5:4, or 1:1 square with viewfinder shading for easy composition.Built-in Wi-Fi1 & Bluetooth2 Connectivity: Users can seamlessly send images to their compatible smart devices through an always-on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection or through Wi-Fi. Nikon SnapBridge3 also gives the ability for remote capture and preview.Nikon’s Widest and Brightest Optical viewfinder: The 0.75x viewfinder magnification is the highest ever for a Nikon DSLR, and offers a wide and bright view of the frame to easily track and compose subjects.Dual Card Slots: The D850 features dual memory card slots -- XQD for high-speed capture and transfer, as well as readily available SD media.Illuminated Buttons: Buttons that light up at the turn of a dial increase visibility and allow easy shooting at night or in low-light scenarios.

Multimedia Production ReadyMultimedia content creators and filmmakers alike will appreciate a wide range of considerate, industry-leading new features that can help to elevate any production:Full-frame 4K UHD at 24/30 fps: The D850’s FX BSI CMOS sensor allows 4K UHD output at a full-frame width at 16:9, to increase lensing options and provide a true field of view.Slow Motion: Creators can also capture Full HD 1080p at up to 120 fps (4x or 5x) for dramatic slow-motion video capture.Focus Peaking: When shooting Full HD or in Live View for stills, focus peaking can be enabled which highlights in-focus subjects in the frame to ensure sharpness.8K / 4K Time-lapse: Users can create 4K UHD time-lapse videos easily in-camera, or can use the built in intervalometer to capture images for an ultra-high resolution 8K time lapse that can be assembled in post for those who want the ultimate in video quality.Zebra stripes: The D850’s highlight display mode uses zebra patterns to quickly spot overblown highlights. What’s more, the zebra patterns come in two varieties, selectable according to the patterns and textures of the subjects.HDMI output: Using HDMI, users can record uncompressed, broadcast quality 4:2:2 8-bit 4K UHD footage, directly to an external digital recorder while simultaneously recording to a card.Audio Control: The D850 features an onboard stereo microphone, as well as inputs for headphones and microphone. The camera also features a new audio attenuator to regulate sound levels.

THE FX-Format advantageThe amazing performance and image quality of the Nikon D850 is best coupled with the wide variety of NIKKOR lenses, heralded for their unmatched image quality, color reproduction and optical characteristics. For maximum fidelity, Nikon’s Gold Ring Series of lenses provide the highest caliber of optical performance needed for such immense resolution applications.

Price and AvailabilityThe Nikon D850 will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $3,299.95*, and will be available in September 2017. The MB-D18 Multi Power Battery Pack will have an SRP of $399.95*, while the ES-2 film digitalizing adapter will have an SRP of $149.95*. For more information on the latest Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

Exclusive Livestream EventWant to learn more about the new Nikon D850? Nikon will conduct a livestream discussion for the new camera, which will take place on August 29 at 6:00 p.m. EDT. Please visit nikonusa.com/live to tune in.

Going Lighter, Faster, Further

Can the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II replace my Sony a7Rii and the panasonic GH4? I talk about the potential and possibilities of leaving behind my GH4 and A7RII - It might be grass is greener on the other side or the sheep are lighter or something but it is very appealing to me to go lighter and simpler with my gear.Watch - Ditching Sony Full Frame for Micro 4/3rdshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgOT5C99v48

Gear List  -

Current Gear:Sony a7Rii - https://bhpho.to/2fyeCr6Canon 24-70 f/2.8 - https://bhpho.to/2fybxqUCanon 70-200 f/2.8 - https://bhpho.to/2gCcC0PSigma 50mm f/1.4 - https://bhpho.to/2gt0DzqPanasonic GH4 -https://bhpho.to/2gS742HPanasonic Lumix G X Vario 12-35mm f/2.8 -https://bhpho.to/2fMXfBtTripod MeFoto Roadtrip Carbon Fiber - https://bhpho.to/2g1VCxeNew Gear ? Micro 4/3rds GearOlympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II - https://bhpho.to/2gS26TtOlympus M. Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 - https://bhpho.to/2gFqiFGOlympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/2.8 - https://bhpho.to/2g1NbC7Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 Lens - https://bhpho.to/2gS6d26Olympus M.ZUIKO Digital ED 7-14mm f/2.8 PRO Lens - https://bhpho.to/2gfDtiEVenus Optics Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D - https://bhpho.to/2gtCyc2Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8 Lens - https://bhpho.to/2gSsJYF Follow me on Instagram

Samyang Announces 2 Auto-Focus Lenses for Sony FE Mount!

Samyang (Also branded Rokinon, Vivitar, Bower etc) are a brand that we really like, they've been delivering optically fantastic lenses at incredible prices with one large tradeoff - they've always been manual focus.The current 14mm is our pick for "Best Budget Lens for Stars"  see our review hereNow Samyang has announced two Full Frame Sony E Mount lenses - an Ultra Wide-Angle 14mm F2.8 and a 50mm F1.4.We're very excited about these lenses, if they've managed to produce lenses that have good auto-focus on Sony bodies, with the existing high level of optical quality AND keep the prices reasonable - these are going fly off the shelves.Below is the full press release - we of course are hopign to get our hands on one to test for you.Press Release from Samyang's website"May 3^rd, 2016, Seoul, Korea – The global optics brand, Samyang Optics (http://www.samyanglensglobal.com) today announced the long-awaited launch of two autofocus lenses: 14mm F2.8 and 50mm F1.4 lenses for Sony E mount Mirrorless cameras with full frame sensor size. The new 14mm and 50mm are the widest and brightest lenses in their classand offer superb quality images to photographers. This launching expands the boundaries of Samyang Optics photo lens line-up from manual focus only, to now include autofocus lenses. Optimised Optical Design as Full Frame Mirrorless Camera LensBoth 14mm F2.8 ED AS IF UMC and 50mm F1.4 AS IF UMC are specifically designed to work in harmony with full frame mirrorless cameras in Sony E mount. The flow of light is devised based on the uniqueness of the distance from glass to sensor in mirrorless cameras to create optimal performance. Along with portability of mirrorless lenses, the 14mm F2.8 and 50mm F1.4 are compatible with full frame sensors to deliver the wideness and sharpnessof image to photographers.The 67mm filter diameter brings the maximum amount of light into the lens to create the best work of light in photography. The 14mm F2.8 is the widest angle available in the market and the F1.4 of 50mm and F2.8 of 14mm apertures are by far the brightest of full frame mirrorless lenses, offeringa beautiful bokeh effect and the best quality images under various exposure conditions.Based on Samyang Optics’ exceptional optical technology, aspherical lenses have been included in both lenses to minimise aberration and unnecessary light dispersion, delivering high resolution from the centre to the corners of the image.AF Performance and Ergonomic Design Based on Class-Leading TechnologyThese new products will be the first autofocus lenses in over 40 years of Samyang’s class-leading core optics technologies. Samyang has captured the essence of world leading image technology with their manual focus lenses and reinterpreted it into autofocus lenses. Photographers now can enjoy the prime manual lens image quality and autofocus lens. These new 14mm F2.8 and 50mm F1.4 are compatible with both phase detect and contrast detect sensors to operate fast and accurate focus detection.The 67mm filter diameter is also the result of years of R&D for best handling, by adding stability to the photo-taking experience. Also the minimal and sleek design and metal-housing solidify the build quality with the internal focus system.These two new autofocus lenses from Samyang Optics will be exhibited at the Photo & Imaging 2016Show in Seoul, South Korea. The lenses will be globally available from July 2016. Further details, pricing and availability will follow.More information will be released soon onSamyang Optics official website (http://www.samyanglensglobal.com), Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/samyanglensglobal) andInstagram (http://www.instagram.com /samyanglensglobal)."

Sony a7 Mark II Review

After using the Sony a7 Mark II for several weeks I share my full review of this full frame mirrorless camera. How does the Sony a7 Mark II compare against the Canon 5D Mark III, my pro/con list and a discussion of where this camera fits in the current market of DSLR and Mirrorless cameras.Video Review: Sony a7 Mark IISony a7 Mark II Features:

• 24MP (100 - 25,600) Low 50, 64, 80
• 117 Phase detect / 25 Contrast Detect (center frame)
• In-body image stabilization IBIS 5-axis ~ rated 4.5 stops
• 1080 60p & XAVC S Codec 50MB/s bit rate
• Weather sealed
• 350 shots battery life
• 1.32 lbs (598 grams)

Sony a7 Mark II Changes from Sony a7 - Or what the Mark II offers over the original a7

• 30% faster focusing
• In-body image stabilization IBIS 5-axis ~ 4.5 stops
• XAVC S Codec 50MB/s bit rate - better quality video
• Greater use of magnesium alloy in build construction
• 350 shots battery life a7 Mark II vs 340 shots in a7
• Redesign grip for, larger, feels better in hand.
• Heavier, 1.32 lbs vs 1.04lbs

In my experience the focusing is better, the camera feels much nicer in the hand and the in-body image stabilization allows for excellent versatility and makes using older manual lenses more useful.Sony a7 Mark II Pros:

• Travel friendly - smaller and lighter than most full frame cameras, can even fit in some jacket pockets, especially when using the excellent Sony Sonnar T* FE 35mm f/2.8 ZA Lens
• IBIS + shoot with fast prime! - Handheld slow shutter speeds shots are possible, also useful for handheld video (see sample a7 Mark II images)
• Capable AF system - for general photography and street photography the AF system is fast enough to avoid any frustrating experiences.
• Peaking and Magnification - additional manual focus aids can be easily assigned custom buttons for quick access and add to your focusing confidence.
• Very good image quality, fairly clean at higher ISOs (see sample a7 Mark II images)
• Excellent dynamic range in the RAW files (see sample a7 Mark II images)
• Easy wireless control and photo transfer via NFC & WiFi

Sony a7 Mark II Cons:

• Battery Life is short. buy a spare or two and/or carry a USB battery with you to charge the camera
• Focus- Still not as fast a DSLR and not capable of capturing action or sports reliably.
  • Setting point - No dedicated button for focus point selection (see a7 Mark II tips)
  • Using single point in low light - Camera struggles in low light focusing outside the center area
• Lens Selection- Sony's selection of native FE lenses is growing but significantly less options than Canon or Nikon offers
• Pay for apps / Play memories store -I am annoyed that buying an intervalometer costs $9.99 in the app store.
• Lack of touchscreen and Sony menu system is dense, it would be nice to have the option to touch to focus and a better designed menu system for easy setup.
• Silly SDcard reqs for XAVC S Codec- You will not have the option of using XAVC S with cards smaller than 64GBs
• Video Moire - The Morie during video is very noticeable in some situations.

 Sony a7 Mark II Bottom Line:The sony a7 Mark II is an excellent travel and general photography camera offering full frame image quality at a value with the ability to use small fast primes and still have stabilized shots as a nice bonus.  This is my current pick out of all the Sony a7 series cameras unless you are serious about video, consider the sony a7s if that is the case.Support my work-Buy from B&H Photo