A new model specialized for shooting in dark conditions

The newly announced "α7S" is positioned as a derivative model of the "α7", which was released in November 2013 as the world's smallest and lightest 35mm full-frame sensor mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera, similar to the "α7R" already on the market.

While the α7R focused on "high resolution", the α7S announced this time focuses on "high sensitivity and low noise". The base model α7 had a maximum ISO sensitivity of 25600, but this model supports ISO 409600. Furthermore, by adopting a new generation RGB color filter, the sensitivity resistance has evolved approximately threefold. This allows for recording of more beautiful image quality with less noise, even when shooting in low light conditions.

A demo video showcasing the high sensitivity and low noise performance of the α7S was released by Sony when the overseas model was announced in April. At the start of the video, with the ISO set to 1600, it's a completely dark world where you can barely make out the campfire flames on screen. It's impossible to discern what's there. As the sensitivity (ISO number) is gradually increased, the surroundings become brighter, and the scene gradually becomes visible bit by bit.

The footage, reaching the maximum sensitivity of ISO 409600, presents a world as if dawn has broken. The fact that noise does not interfere even at such high sensitivities is a high-sensitivity performance unlike any previous interchangeable-lens camera.



Another key feature of this model is the ability to record "4K video". High-resolution video recording, previously only achievable with large professional equipment, is now possible with a compact, palm-sized body. Beautifully blurred images utilizing the full-frame sensor are also anticipated. However, an external recorder is required for 4K video recording, and direct recording to the body is not possible. Therefore, it appears to be targeted at professionals who create high-quality video productions.

There are no major changes to the exterior design; the only difference is the blue "S" emblem. The size is the same as the previous model, maintaining its compactness. The release date is Friday, June 20th.

Sony α7
Lens Mount | Sony E-mount lenses
Image Sensor | 35mm full-frame (35.6mm x 23.8mm) "Exmor" CMOS image sensor
Camera Effective Pixels | Approx. 12.2 million pixels
AF Points | 25 points (contrast-detection system)
Still Image ISO Sensitivity | 100-102400 (expandable to ISO 50-409600)
Video Recording ISO Sensitivity | 200-102400 (expandable to ISO 200-409600)
LCD Monitor | 3.0-type wide TFT drive
Total Pixels | 921,600 dots
Recording Format (Still Image) | JPEG, RAW
Recording Format (Video) | XAVC S, AVCHD, MP4
Dimensions (W x H x D) | Approx. 126.9mm x 94.4mm x 48.2mm
Weight | Approx. 446g (body only)
Release Date | June 20th (Friday)
Price | Open price
Estimated Market Price | ¥230,000 (excluding tax)

*World's smallest and lightest refers to interchangeable-lens digital cameras equipped with a 35mm full-frame image sensor
(As of October 16, 2013 press release, Sony survey)