Sony today announced several additions to its impressive imaging line-up - the Alpha 7C full-frame camera (model ILCE-7C), the FE 28-60mm F4-5.6 (model SEL2860) zoom lens and HVL-F28RM flash.The Alpha 7C is the world's smallest and lightest[i] full-frame body with uncompromising performance, featuring advanced AF (autofocus), high-resolution 4K video[ii] capabilities and more. When paired with the world's smallest and lightest[iii] FE 28-60mm F4-5.6 standard zoom lens, this versatile combination delivers an experience unlike any other, maximising portability and versatility without sacrificing any of the power of full-frame imaging.The HVL-F28RM flash allows users to broaden their photo expressions with outstanding compactness and an intelligent light intensity control linked to camera face detection[iv].
We are committed to creating the best tools possible based on the needs of our customers, said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Director of Product Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe. The new Alpha 7C camera and FE 28-60mm F4-5.6 zoom lens pack many of our most advanced imaging technologies in a brand new design that is the smallest and lightest full-frame camera and lens system in the world. This opens up a new world of possibilities for creators, giving them the uncompromised power of a full-frame system in the palm of their hand.
New Alpha 7C: Uncompromised Full-frame Performance in a Compact Design
The new Alpha 7C combines Sony's full-frame image quality, advanced AF capabilities and versatile video shooting functions in a stunningly light and compact design. The new camera features a 24.2MP (approx. effective) 35mm full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ X image processing engine, offering high sensitivity, outstanding resolution, 15-stop[v] wide dynamic range and high-speed image data processing.
Measuring only 124.0mm x 71.1mm x 59.7mm (4.9 inches x 2.8 inches x 2.2 inches) and weighing just 509g (18oz)[vi], the Alpha 7C is a similar size and weight to an APS-C camera[vii], weighing only 1 percent more than the Alpha 6600. The Alpha 7C achieves the world's smallest and lightest compact body[ii] through an upgraded 5-axis in-body stabilisation system, upgraded shutter units and the utilisation of a monocoque construction which is often used in the bodies of cars and aircrafts. Even in this compact body, the Alpha 7C offers a 5-step[viii] stabilisation effect that allows beautiful shots without the need for a tripod. Moreover, the high capacity NP-FZ100 battery provides enough power to capture an industry-leading[ix] 740 images[x]when using the LCD monitor, or 680 images[xi] when using the viewfinder - making it perfect for long shoots.
Outstanding Full-frame Image Quality
Sony's new Alpha 7C combines high resolution with low noise for excellent image quality at all sensitivities, offering the user stunning image quality for shooting everyday photography and movies such as nature, portraits, sports, street photography and more. Standard ISO extends up to 51,200 and is expandable to ISO 50-204,800[xi] for low-light environment captures with low noise. The Alpha 7C also supports 16-bit processing and 14-bit RAW output[xii] for natural gradations.
Advanced Autofocus
Using AI-driven functions, the Alpha 7C's Real-time Tracking[xiii] maintains accurate focus automatically while the shutter button is half-pressed. In addition, Tracking On AF-On now is assignable to a custom key and can now be activated at once while the AF-ON button is pressed. Moreover, the intended subject can be specified just by touching it on the monitor when Touch Tracking has been turned ON via the menu and is available for both stills and movies. The Alpha 7C's AF functions also feature Real-time Eye AF for both humans and animals[xiv] to achieve fast and accurate focus[xv]. When using Real-time Tracking (while Face/Eye Priority in AF is ON) with a human subject, the subject's eye and face is detected and locked on in real-time with extremely high precision.
The Alpha 7C provides wide, fast, reliable AF that locks onto the intended subject instantly without losing focus, thanks to its 693-point focal-plane phase-detection AF system covering approximately 93 percent of the image area, with an additional 425 contrast-detection points to ensure reliable focus, even in busy environments.
The Alpha 7C also features continuous shooting at up to 10 fps[xvi] with AF/AE (autoexposure) by using a newly developed shutter unit and refined image processing system. It is also possible to shoot continuously at up to 8 fps[xvii] in live view mode, with minimal viewfinder/monitor display lag for easy, stable framing, even with intense subject motion.The Alpha 7C allows up to approximately 223 JPEG (Fine L) images, 115 compressed RAW images, or 45 uncompressed RAW images to be captured in one continuous burst[xvii], and achieves highly accurate and reliable AF precision in light down to EV-4[xviii]. These features make it easier to capture fast moving objects with challenging environments.
Expanded Video Capabilities
Full-frame full-pixel readout without the need for pixel binning makes it possible to capture more than twice[xix] the amount of data required for 4K video (QFHD: 3840 x 2160)iii, which is then oversampled to produce high quality 4K footage with exceptional detail and depth. In addition, the Alpha 7C supports HDR (HLG[xx]) and S-Log/S-Gamut profiles, Slow & Quick motion, high-speed full HD recording at 120 fps[iii] and other advanced video features for additional creative freedom.
Furthermore, the Alpha 7C features Real-time Eye AF (human) for video shooting. The eye is automatically tracked with high precision and reliability so that the operator can concentrate on the content rather than focus operation. Users can also customise AF Transition
