Stunning image quality from a compact, lightweight body

The latest BIONZ XR™ image processing engine and class-leading full-frame image sensor deliver fine subject detail in a compact, lightweight body. With a 61.0 effective megapixel, back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor—adapted from our acclaimed α7R V—it delivers extraordinary resolution into new spaces.

Exmor Rstyle name=“sup”TM/style image sensor

The back-illuminated sensor’s noise reduction, gapless on-chip lenses, anti-reflection optical coating, elimination of the optical low-pass filter that is usually positioned in front of the sensor and other original technologies deliver high resolution, high sensitivity, low noise, and wide dynamic range.

BIONZ XR image processing engine

With up to eight times more processing power than previous types, the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine minimizes processing latency while markedly boosting movie and still image processing power. The BIONZ XR image processing engine helps to deliver natural gradations, realistic colour, low noise, and generally superior image quality while fast, stress-free menu response is maintained regardless of the real-time processing load.

High sensitivity and high dynamic range with low noise

In addition to delivering stunning 61.0-megapixel resolution, advanced sensor technologies from Sony allow sensitivity settings from ISO 100 to ISO 32000 for both stills and movies. Dynamic range at lower sensitivities is an impressively wide 15 stops so that smooth, realistic gradations are achieved from deep shadows to highlights.

Consistently accurate exposure and colour

The latest processing engine and AE algorithm are capable of detecting the skin area in faces and controlling exposure accordingly when shooting stills and movies. Auto exposure is accurate even in backlit situations when the subject’s face is dark, when the subject’s face is over-illuminated in direct sunlight, or when the subject is not directly facing the camera.

Advanced in-body optical 5-axis 7.0-step image stabilization

A high-precision image stabilization unit, advanced gyro sensors, and optimized image stabilization algorithms effectively detect and correct camera shake. 7.0-step in-body optical image stabilization is a huge advantage for hand-held shooting. The new stabilization algorithm provides precise detection and control right down to the single-pixel level, taking full advantage of the sensor’s 61.0-megapixel resolution to bring out the finest subject details.  [1] Yaw  [2] Roll  [3] Pitch

Pixel Shift Multi Shooting responds to changing conditions

Pixel Shift Multi Shooting uses the precision in-body image stabilization system to capture multiple pixel-shifted images that are later composited on a PC to achieve overwhelming resolution in a single image. 16-image composites with approximately 240.8 million pixels (19008 x 12672 pixels) can be produced from data that is equivalent to approximately 963.2 million pixels.

Creative Look supports varied expression

The Creative Look feature provides 10 presets that can be used unmodified or edited to create a variety of “looks” to help creators fine-tune the mood of their stills or movies in-camera.

Artificial lighting flicker suppression

When shooting stills with the mechanical shutter, flicker from artificial light sources is automatically detected, and the timing of image capture is adjusted to minimize its effects. When shooting stills or movies under LED lighting using the silent electronic shutter, the Var. Shutter function reduces high-frequency flicker problems by allowing the shutter speed to be finely controlled.

Selectable RAW image sizes and quality

Lossless RAW image compression provides efficiency with no loss in image quality, allowing more images to be shot in continuous bursts. Three image sizes (L/M/S) can be selected to suit the application. M and S sizes have the same numbers of pixels (26M/15M) in full-frame and APS-C modes, allowing seamless switching while maintaining the same image resolution. A new “Light” image quality selection, with smaller file sizes for easy sharing, is provided for JPEG and HEIF images.

AI processing unit for advanced subject recognition

The α7CR is equipped with an AI processing unit specifically designed for more accurate recognition of subjects and recognition of a wider range of subject types.

Human recognition using pose tracking

Equipped with an AI processing unit, the α7CR uses skeletal information and pose estimation technology to recognize subject configuration and movement with high accuracy, allowing it to recognize the positions of not only the eyes but also the human body and head with even greater precision. This makes it possible to lock onto and track a subject facing away from the camera or with their face partly obscured by a helmet or sunglasses, for example.

Reliable recognition of a wider range of subjects

The AI processing unit supports recognition of many subject types. Animal recognition now recognizes the eyes of some grazing and small animals as well as eyes, heads and bodies of dogs, cats and similar animals. Bird recognition now more easily pinpoints the eyes of various birds as well as heads and bodies. A new Animal/Bird setting eliminates the need to switch. The whole or the end of Car/Train and Airplane subjects, and the heads of Insect subjects, are recognized when those subjects are selected.

Tenacious Real-time Tracking

The camera is equipped with AI-based Real-time Tracking that can be activated by specifying the subject and half-pressing the shutter button. The camera will then automatically track the subject, leaving the user free to concentrate on framing and composition. Subject recognition performance has been greatly improved, offering higher tracking reliability from the moment the function is initiated and making it more useful in a wider range of shooting situations.

Wide, high-density AF reliably captures subjects

The immense processing speed and power of the BIONZ XR engine and updated algorithms achieve notably improved AF performance. Up to 693 phase detection points cover approximately 79% of the image area in a high-density array, accurately acquiring focus even when the subject only occupies a small part of the frame. The α7CR includes both phase detection and contrast AF systems, with phase detection emphasised to ensure fast, stable focus acquisition even in single AF (AF-S) mode.

Continuous shooting at up to 8fps with AF/AE tracking

Continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking is possible at up to 8fps with the mechanical shutter, or 7fps during silent shooting, capturing even momentary movements or expression changes in exquisite detail. The power of the BIONZ XR engine allows continuous shooting of approx. 320 JPEG images, letting you capture every vital moment. Even when shooting or cropping closer to APS-C, 26M resolution and high image quality are maintained, allowing continuous shooting of birds in flight with AF/AE tracking, for example.

Full-frame 4K 60/50p recording

The latest BIONZ XR processing engine and updated algorithms achieve notably improved movie image quality. The powerful processor enables 60/50p frame rates, to capture motion fluidly and precisely, and increase post-production flexibility. In addition to focus support, the camera’s advanced AI processing unit is also used to achieve accurate white balance, even in tricky situations where the subject is in shade.

6.2k oversampled video, for stunning 4K imagery

Full-frame and Super 35 mm formats can be selected for 4K movie recording. Full pixel readout in the Super 35 mm mode without pixel binning makes it possible to condense approximately 2.6 times the amount of data required for 4K movies (QFHD: 3840 x 2160) into high-resolution, high-detail 4K with minimal moiré and jaggies.

S-Cinetone™ makes it easy to create a cinematic look

Sony’s S-Cinetone picture profile provides the same colour science that delivers more faithful colour reproduction and skin tones throughout the highly regarded Cinema Line. S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones that are essential to healthy-looking skin, plus soft colours and gorgeous highlights. This lets creators concentrate on shooting while achieving a cinematic look without the need for colour grading.

Log recording and LUT

The α7CR features an S-Log3 gamma curve to maximize its 14+ stops of latitude. S-Gamut3 and S-Gamut3. Cine colour gamut settings are also provided for further post processing control, and user-selected LUTs (Look Up Table) can be applied to preview how processed footage will look.

Focus breathing compensation for consistent angle of view

Breathing compensation suppresses focus breathing (change in a lens’s angle of view with changes in focus) when shooting movies. Sony’s Clear Image Zoom technology is used to automatically maintain a consistent angle of view through focus changes with compatible lenses, for more stable images. Breathing metadata can also be used with the advanced breathing compensation capabilities of the latest Catalyst Browse/Prepare software application during post production.

Outstanding image quality plus broad visual expression

16-bit RAW video can be output to an external recorder via an HDMI cable while recording XAVC HS 4K, XAVC S 4K, or XAVC S-I 4K to internal card media. Proxy recording is also available. 10-bit 4:2:2 video can be recorded internally using Long GOP or Intra compression, for more natural gradations and greater editing freedom. An HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) picture profile preset supports the BT.2020 colour space with 10-bit depth for smooth, natural gradations.

Active Mode image stabilization supports hand-held movie shooting

Active Mode provides a precision stabilization unit, advanced gyro sensors, and a state-of-the-art optimized stabilization algorithm for movie shooting. Camera shake is precisely detected, and the algorithm controls the optical stabilization system for exceedingly smooth, stable movie footage. In addition, compatible lenses that include built-in image stabilization sync with the body to provide highly effective control, stable framing and smooth hand-held footage.

Real-time Tracking also supports focus during movie shooting

AI-based Real-time Tracking provides a dramatic improvement in Real-time Tracking performance, automatically recognizing, tracking, and focusing on the eyes of a specified subject. A custom button assigned to [Tracking-On] or [Tracking-On Hold] can be used to temporarily track a selected subject regardless of the subject’s position in the frame and the focus area setting.

Supplied grip extension

A supplied grip extension provides an even better hold for maximum comfort and minimum fatigue through long shooting sessions, even with heavy large-aperture or telephoto lenses. The grip extension does not interfere with battery replacement or tripod mounting. The grip extension can be left off for normal shooting, and then attached for improved handling when a large lens is to be used for an extended period of time.

Approx. 2.36 million-dot XGA OLED viewfinder

A 2.36 million-dot (approx.) XGA OLED electronic viewfinder with 0.70x magnification delivers high resolution and contrast. Viewfinder brightness is approximately the same as the α7R V for bright, clear, easy viewing. When shooting stills, the [Finder Frame Rate] can be set to [Standard (60fps)] or [Fast (120fps)] for a smooth viewfinder image with minimal motion blur.

Vari-angle and touch menu for greater shooting freedom

The vari-angle LCD monitor allows for framing in any position or angle, regardless of whether you are shooting stills or movies. The menu and function menus can be operated by touch. Either long-pressing menu items or pressing the Delete key allows frequently-used functions and settings to be registered in My Menu, letting you efficiently call up those functions and settings that you use most often.

Durable magnesium alloy chassis

A lightweight, high-rigidity magnesium alloy is used for the top cover, front cover and rear cover, ensuring that the camera operates reliably in hard-working professional environments.

Easy, stable transfers to smartphone

Connection stability when transferring images from the camera to the Creators’ App mobile application on a smartphone has been greatly improved. Once started, transfers continue in the background even if the smartphone display sleeps or another application is launched. Workflow from shooting to sharing has been notably improved overall.

Easy, high-quality live streaming

Connected to a PC or smartphone via USB, the α7CR can function as a 4K (2160p) webcam. Large-aperture lenses, narrow depth of field, and bokeh can be used to create unique imagery. Advanced AF functions such as Eye AF can also be used to great advantage for online meetings and live streaming events.