New Artificial Intelligence (AI) Processing Unit Combined with 61 MP High Resolution Image Sensor and BIONZ XR™ Processing Engine Combine to Deliver Best-Ever Image Quality for an Alpha Body

Sony announced the Alpha 7R V (model ILCE-7RM5) as the newest R series camera in its acclaimed line of Alpha mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. The Alpha 7R V combines Sony’s highest resolution image sensor with a new AI (artificial intelligence) processing unit dedicated to AI-based image recognition – a first in any Alpha camera – as well as the powerful BIONZ XR™ image processing engine – a first in the “R” full-frame lineup. The combination of the high-resolution sensor and these processors enables new breakthroughs in subject recognition and capture for both still photography and video.

“The newest addition to our Alpha 7R lineup is the perfect example of our relentless drive to develop industry-leading imaging technology,” said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Director of Product Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe. “We are thrilled to introduce the all-new ALPHA 7RV with extremely advanced AI integrations that enables next-generation autofocus capabilities. We are excited to see what our community creates with the new ALPHA 7RV.”

Improved AF Based on Newly Developed AI Processing Unit

The ALPHA 7RV features next-generation AF with advanced subject recognition thanks to a new AI (artificial intelligence) processing unit, which includes deep learning. State-of-the-art AI processing uses detailed information about human pose estimation to dramatically improve the camera’s subject recognition accuracy and make full use of its potential resolution[iii]. AI subject recognition has also been expanded to include several new subject types, including vehicles and insects[iv].

In addition to the advanced AI technology, the ALPHA 7RV includes improvement to many beloved features from other cameras in Sony’s Alpha series that are now included for the first time in Sony’s 7R series:

• Tenacious Real-time Tracking[v]
• Faster and more precise wide-area, high-density AF system
• Continuous shooting at up to 10 fps[vi] with AF/AE tracking
• Silent, vibration-free shooting[vii] at up to 7 fps[viii]
• Continuously shoot up to 583 compressed RAW images at high speed[ix]

The ALPHA 7RV also includes focus features that support high resolution including full-time DMF[x] (direct manual focus), and focus bracketing[xi], a highly requested capability that allows for focus stacked images.

Extraordinary Resolution Known to Sony’s Alpha 7R Series

The ALPHA 7RV was designed to deliver overwhelming detail thanks to the latest BIONZ XR™ image processing engine and a 35mm full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor with approximately 61.0 million effective megapixels. The latest BIONZ XR image processing engine ensures that the resolution potential of the camera’s sensor is fully utilised to deliver the highest resolution at low sensitivity in the Alpha series thus far. This enables sensitivity settings from ISO 100 to ISO 32000[xii] for both stills and movies and wide dynamic range with 15 stops[xiii] for stills.

The ALPHA 7RV’s entire image stabilisation system has been updated with a high-precision image stabilisation unit, advanced gyro sensors, and optimised image stabilisation algorithms for stills and video. In addition to the 8-step compensationⁱⁱ effect for stills, the new stabilisation algorithm provides precise detection and control right down to the single-pixel level, taking full advantage of the sensor’s 61.0-megapixel resolution potential to bring out the finest subject details. Sony’s newest camera also offers upgraded Pixel Shift Multi Shooting, which takes advantage of the precision in-body image stabilisation system control, capturing multiple pixel-shifted images that are later composited using a computer to achieve overwhelming resolution in a single image. Using the latest version of Imaging Edge Desktop™ Ver.3.5 computer application, small pixel-level movements, such as a shift in the subject’s position or leaves on a tree, are automatically detected and corrected so that perfect compositing can be achieved[xiv]. 16-image composites with approximately 240.8 million pixels (19,008 x 12,672 pixels)[xv] can be produced from data that is equivalent to approximately 963.2 million pixels. The ALPHA 7RV also supports precise and versatile external flash control for additional creative flexibility. Additionally, when in challenging lighting conditions the ALPHA 7RV effectively suppresses flickering from artificial lights[xvi] for stills and video.

Additional features that offer flexibility for still photography includes:

• Addition of Lossless RAW image compression and selectable RAW image sizes and quality
• Greatly expanded focus and exposure bracketing
• Creative Look settings for stills and videos in camera
• High-quality HEIF images with high compression efficiency
• Wide brightness range for large screen viewing.

Cinematic Video Capabilities

In addition to incredible still photography capabilities, the ALPHA 7RV offers advanced video capabilities. Sony’s newest camera delivers 8Ki 24/25p video, 4K video oversampled from 6.2K without binning , a high-efficiency MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec, intra recording, 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, and more for high image quality and flexible editing. It also includes evolved subject recognition for unprecedented real-time tracking reliability, breathing compensation and the ability to use camera metadata for post-processing and advanced in-body image stabilisation. In addition to in-body Active mode image stabilisation for smoother on-the-go recording, the ALPHA 7RV is compatible with select lenses that include built-in image stabilisation for even more stable framing and smooth footage.

Operability and Reliability

The ALPHA 7RV pairs outstanding reliability for professional needs in both stills and videos with a compact, lightweight form factor. The ALPHA 7RV includes a new 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor[xx] that combines the utility of a conventional tilting monitor with side-opening vari-angle flexibility, and an electronic viewfinder with 9.44 million dots. The ALPHA 7RV also includes two CFexpress Type A/SDXC compatible media slots and a brand-new menu system with touch control and a wide range of customisable functions.

The ALPHA 7RV also allows professionals to optimise their workflow with updated connectivity for improved support. Data can be transferred at high speed over Wi-Fi (802.11ac) 2×2 MIMO[xxi] or a wired SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps connection via a USB-C® port. In addition to allowing efficient remote shooting as well as still and movie file transfers, new USB streaming features support UVC/UAC, allowing direct streaming from the camera even in 4K (QFHD) resolution with audio as well.

Based on feedback from professionals, the ALPHA 7RV includes improved heat dissipation for extended recording times[xxii], an upgraded dust and moisture resistant design[xxiii], a durable magnesium alloy chassis, and other refinements for maximum reliability in challenging working environments.

The ALPHA 7RV is also compatible with the new PCK-LG3 Screen Protect Glass Sheet, which maintains touch sensitivity while protecting the LCD monitor against stains and fingerprints.

Designed for Professionals with Sustainability in Mind

Measures have been taken to reduce the environmental footprint of this product at every stage of its life cycle: from product development through supply chain, production, and packaging. Sony aims to inspire through the most efficient use of energy and resources. Recyclable plastic including SORPLAS™[xxiv]  were used for this camera body partially. In addition, manufacturing takes place at a facility using renewable energy.

Sony is working towards the use of plastic free[xxv] packaging materials that provide ample protection against shock and impact. Plant-based non-woven fabrics are used for product bags[xxvi]. All of this helps to minimise environmental impact.

Pricing and Availability

The new ALPHA 7RV will be available in mid- November at a variety of Sony’s authorised dealers, for an estimated retail price of €4,500 EUROS.

More information on the ALPHA 7RV can be found here and a product video on the new camera can be viewed HERE.