When it comes to choice of camera, we have more options than ever, each with an array of powerful and useful features. Sony offers some of the most capable cameras on the market. This video takes a look at Sony's offerings and discusses five reasons why they are worth shooting with.
Coming to you from Miguel Quiles, this interesting video discusses five reasons why many creatives prefer Sony cameras. No doubt, no camera system is perfect, but Sony does offer some impressive bodies that can tackle a range of scenarios and needs. Nonetheless, I think one of the biggest advantages of the system has nothing to do with the cameras themselves. The E mount offers some of the widest variety in lens choice, particularly among third-party manufacturers. And that is perhaps more important than ever, as one of Sony's main rivals, Canon, has recently banned the majority of third-party lenses for its own RF mount. While some photographers shoot with first-party lenses, the last decade has seen an explosion of third-party options that offer creatives more choice than ever, and that's an important thing to consider when choosing a camera system. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Quiles.
I was a Canon pro for many years. I actually rented an A7R (version 1) and adaptor as a backup when my main camera 5Ds/r was in repair. I rented to see what all the hype was about. I made the decision based on the tilt screen and EVF. As an Architectural Photographer, I sometimes use an extra tall tripod. I now could tilt the screen and manually focus (using peaking) without having to use a small step stool. I loved the EVF showing the histogram and settings as I shot. I HATED returning the camera. I finally purchased the A7Rii, an adaptor for all my Canon lenses (I generally shoot manually-fast AF is not an issue). Eventually, I transitioned (lenses and bodies) 100% to Sony. I rented an R5 a while back with a couple of lenses. SUPER NICE CAMERA. However, the unit did not motivate me enough to go back. If only something close to the R5/R6 came out a few years ago, I would not have left.
If you can't take great shots with any of the brands currently available, you need to take up another hobby/profession. Where Sony lost me and still hasn't corrected to suit my needs is in hand ergonomics. Subjective for sure, but shooting with something that just doesn't feel right is a good way to lose interest. I didn't move from a DSLR (5D series) because Canon's first iterations didn't have 2 card slots. Canon and Nikon were smart in that they chose to keep their form factor very close to their DSLR shapes. The R5 changed my mind and although I was a little concerned about the EVF, I've found it's fine. But my R5 w/grip is comfortable to shoot with, the menu is pretty much an evolution of what I'm used to, and it is a fantastic camera, comparing well to the Nikon and Sony flagship models.
What a load of b*ll*cks - the support in the UK is awful 0/100 not a patch on Nikon or Fuji as an experiment I purchased a A7RV IMHO the Nikon D850 is a better camera in every respect apart from the AF - Sorry Sony
Expensive experiment! Though your result of the experiment does not actually stack up with the cold hard evidence:-
https://cameradecision.com/compare/Sony-Alpha-A7R-V-vs-Nikon-D850
While it’s totally fine to say you prefer what you prefer. It’s factually inaccurate when you say “ Nikon D850 is a better camera in every respect apart from the AF - Sorry Sony“
In reality it’s only better if you prefer a heavier and larger camera with inferior technical specifications.
When it comes to cameras familiarity does not breed contempt in fact it’s the opposite. Camera choice relies a lot on what you are used to, what you like and what you will accept. It’s got little to do with what’s best, whatever that means. Comparing cameras is only really relevant for those making their first purchase or those who have made their mind up to switch brands for whatever reason. People like Sony for very similar reasons to why people like Nikon or Canon. Though Canon appears to have possibly scored an own goal by cutting off any third party lens options, unlike Sony that has numerous companies making all sorts of e-mount options. It’s a strange decision especially when these 3rd party companies are making excellent products often at a far lower price point than the native equivalent. Why pay more for a native branded lens? Why choose a company that restricts your choice if there are other options?
I chose Sony seven years ago tempted by going mirrorless and have stuck with them, my latest addition being the A7R5. My choice does not mean I think Sony is any better than Canon or any other manufacturer as I know little about what Canon or Nikon has to offer. All I know is I’m familiar with the Sony environment and I enjoy using what they offer. Just like when I purchased my first Mac back in 1986! I’ve stuck with Apple ever since not because I think they are better but because I’m so familiar with the environment.
Making any major tech change these days; cameras, computers, software, involves a steep learning curve that takes time to climb never mind the financial hit for swapping all those lenses when it comes to cameras. I for one put familiarity near the top of my list when making a choice unless my current choice no longer works. At the moment Sony works for me but I’m under no illusion it’s any better than the less familiar options out there.