Sony Alpha 7S III + Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 + Sigma 60-600mm f4.5-6.3

Sony Alpha 7S III (ILCE-7SM3)

Almost five years after the Alpha 7S II, Sony launches its successor: the Alpha 7S III has an improved 12-megapixel sensor, shoots 4K at 120p, and is said to achieve exceptional results in low-light photography thanks to large pixels.

The sensor of the Alpha 7S III resolves 12 megapixels, as in the Alpha 7S II, but is now rear-exposed

At the heart of the new Alpha is a 12-megapixel full-frame sensor that has been improved over the Alpha 7S II. Sony now relies on a backside exposed (BSI) design, which allows more light to be captured and gives better results in low-light shooting. The maximum sensitivity is still ISO 409,600 (expandable down to ISO 40). The sensor is supported by the new BIONZ-XR processor, which is said to have eight times the processing power of the previous image processor.

Sony is also breaking new ground in terms of operation: for the first time in the Alpha 7 series, a fully movable monitor (3.0 inches, 1.44 million dots) has been installed, which now also allows touch operation of the menus. The structure of the menus has also been completely revised; among other things, only the relevant entries are available in photo and video mode for better clarity. The OLED viewfinder achieves a record resolution of 9.44 million dots and a magnification of 0.9x. The size of the image can also be reduced so that eyeglass wearers can also see the entire image.

4K with 120p
One focus of the camera is video recording. Unlike Canon on the EOS R5, Sony doesn't rely on 8K for video, but continues to rely on 4K, which is, however, said to produce the best results yet on an Alpha camera. The sensor's 12MP resolution allows full-pixel readout without pixel binning or cropping up to 4K/60p.

The recording limit at this setting is said to be one hour without overheating - the EOS R5 can only manage 30 minutes at a time at 4K/60p. Video recording is limited to this length on the Alpha 7S III in 4K/120p mode - by the way, this is also where a slight crop kicks in (1.1x).

The monitor can be swiveled, and the grip and controls have become larger - as in other cameras of the third Alpha generation.

The Alpha 7S III even records at up to 240p in Full HD. For time-lapse recordings, lower frame rates of up to 1p can also be selected in S&Q mode. Recording is done internally with a color subsampling of 4:2:2 and a color depth of 10 bit. New codecs are available for this: XAVC-S-I records single frames (All-I) at a data rate of up to 500 Mbits/s, XAVC-HS reduces the amount of data during image group compression to 200 Mbits/s thanks to H.265 compression. Via HDMI 2.1, the camera can even output 4K/60p as 16-bit raw files (ProRes Raw) to an Atomos recorder.

Of course, a logarithmic gamma profile is also available (S-Log 2/3), which is supposed to enable a dynamic range of over 15 f-stops; the sensitivity here starts at ISO 640 (extended: ISO 160). According to Sony, the rolling shutter effect has been significantly minimized.

The Alpha 7S III is equipped with a 5-axis image stabilizer in the housing, which achieves an effectiveness of 5.5 f-stops when measured according to CIPA standards; in video mode, additional digital stabilization (Active Mode) is used, which also uses a gyro sensor. The information from this gyro sensor can also be stored in the metadata of the videos to use it for digital stabilization in post-processing.

Fast autofocus and 10 fps
The hybrid autofocus covers 92% of the image sensor and uses 759 points with phase detection and 425 with contrast AF. In addition to human ones, the AF algorithms now also detect animal eyes - even at greater distances than before, according to Sony.

The AF sensitivity goes down to -6 EV. The camera shoots series at up to 10 fps. The mechanical shutter is designed for 1/8000 s. Sony uses two memory card drives for the first time in the Alpha 7S III, which can use SD cards (UHS-II) as well as the new CFexpress Type A cards. These are smaller than Type B cards and faster than SD cards. SD cards of the video classes V60 and V90 are sufficient for most video modes; only the S&Q mode with 4:2:2 color subsampling and 10-bit color depth requires CFexpress. Continuous mode also benefits from the faster cards; 1000 uncompressed raws in a row should be possible here.

A Z-battery is used for the power supply, which can be charged via USB-C and supplies power for 600 photos or 95 minutes of video. Continuous power via USB is also possible.

Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 DG DN (A) Sony-E

The second Art Zoom lens redesigned specifically for mirrorless cameras.

Outstanding results can be achieved with a fast Zoom. With this conviction, SIGMA developed the 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN Art, the first Art-Zoom lens specifically designed for mirrorless cameras and featuring extremely high resolution.

Experience in designing lenses for mirrorless cameras has successfully reduced the size and weight of the lens, while achieving homogeneous and high resolution across the entire focal length range from the center of the image to the edges. In addition, compatibility with the latest mirrorless cameras and their features allows the lens to be used in a wide range of applications, meeting the high demands of professional photographers or ambitious hobbyists alike.

Following in the footsteps of the 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN, the 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art is the flagship of the new generation of Art Zoom lenses and the ultimate standard Zoom wide aperture lens.

Best optical performance in its class

The F2.8 Art product line, with its flagship Zoom lenses, was designed primarily to achieve outstanding optical performance.

As ultra-low dispersion glass, this lens incorporates six FLD ("F" Low Dispersion) glass elements and two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements, taking advantage of an optical design for mirrorless camera lenses. Thanks to the use of three aspherical lenses, this lens effectively reduces aberrations such as longitudinal chromatic aberration or sagittal coma, which are difficult to correct during post-processing. It also delivers homogeneous and superior resolution across the entire focal length range from the center of the image to the edges.

Compatible with the latest full-frame mirrorless cameras

The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art is compatible with several models of the latest full-frame mirrorless cameras with L-mount and Sony E-mount. This means that professional photographers or ambitious hobbyists alike can achieve top performance in a wide range of photographic applications.

For example, the AFL button can be assigned different functions via the camera menu, which improves operability during photography. By using a stepper motor with the latest algorithm, a balance between acceleration and smoothness of the AF drive is achieved. This enables stress-free focusing. In addition, this lens is compatible with eye-detection AF commonly used in mirrorless cameras, which enables extremely precise focusing in portrait photography. The Zoom lock mechanism prevents accidental extension of the lens barrel. An AF/MF switch, which many other SIGMA lenses also feature, is also available.

Reflection and ghosting eliminating design

From the beginning of the lens design process, susceptibility to reflections and ghosting is studied to achieve an optical design that is resistant to even strong backlighting. Super Multi-Layer Coating (SML) reduces flare and ghosting and delivers sharp, high-contrast images, even when backlit.

In addition to the Super Multi-Layer Coating, Nano Porous Coating is used. In terms of coating, the lens is designed to be less affected by strong light incidence, such as reflections.

Close focusing distance of 18-38 cm

The closest focusing distance is 18 cm in the wide-angle range. This allows you to get closer to the subject when shooting than the lens hood allows. The largest magnification is 1:2.9 at wide-angle and 1:4.5 at telephoto, allowing for a greater variety of expression in close-up photography.

Round aperture

The near-round aperture consists of 11 aperture blades** and provides a very pleasing bokeh outside the image's plane of focus.

Dust and splash protection

Thanks to its dust- and splash-proof design, the lens is suitable for a wide range of applications and environments.

Brass bayonet

The lens is equipped with a solid and precise brass bayonet. The special treatment of the surface to strengthen the strength enables the long-lasting use.

Sigma 60-600mm f4.5-6.3 DG DN OS (S) Sony E-mount

The SIGMA 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports, with its unique 10x Zoom range, is a high-performance ultra-telephoto Zoom lens designed exclusively for full-frame mirrorless cameras. The latest optical design delivers high optical performance at all focal lengths, despite the enormous 10x Zoom range. As a result, the lens is capable of capturing any scene in high resolution.

The newly developed "HLA (High-response Linear Actuator)" linear motor provides unprecedented fast and precise autofocus. In addition, the newly developed "OS2" algorithm enables image stabilization by up to 7 exposure stops in the short focal length and up to 6 exposure stops in the long focal length.

Of course, it is also equipped with Dual Action Zoom, dust and splash protection, and a wealth of customizable features and specifications from the SIGMA Sports product line to meet the demands of a wide variety of shooting environments and situations. With its extensive features and outstanding optical performance, this lens captures moments with a flair for dynamics.

The SIGMA 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports is a unique ultra-telephoto Zoom lens that combines an enormous Zoom range with extremely high image quality and mobility.

The unique 60-600mm Zoom lens capable of capturing situations from standard to ultra telephoto

The SIGMA 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports is an ultra-telephoto 10x Zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras that covers a focal length range of 60-600mm - a range that only SIGMA offers. It allows seamless shooting from close-up to far away without having to change lenses first. And it does so even in challenging situations like air shows or professional sporting events.

Consistently high optical performance throughout the Zoom range SIGMA used the latest optical design to effectively correct chromatic aberrations commonly found in the ultra-telephoto range by using a variety of high-quality materials, including FLD and SLD glass elements. The lens is capable of capturing every moment with uncompromisingly high image quality in the unique focal length range of 60-600mm. The closest focusing distance is only 45cm at the shortest focal length setting. At 200mm focal length, the lens offers the largest possible magnification of 1:2.4, allowing it to be used as a telephoto macro lens as well, adding to its overall versatility.

High-speed AF through newly developed "HLA" motor - for capturing the decisive moment

The autofocus of the SIGMA 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sport uses the newly developed linear motor "HLA (High-response Linear Actuator)". This powerful linear motor and advanced electronic control realize quiet autofocus with unprecedented high speed and high precision. The new motor also ensures high follow focus performance, helping to ensure that you don't miss the decisive moment in sports photography and any other situation where the subject is in motion - from a vehicle to a bird in flight.

Newly developed "OS2" optical stabilizer algorithm with high compensation capability of up to 7 exposure levels.

The lens' OS (Optical Stabilizer) uses SIGMA's newly developed "OS2" algorithm. This new algorithm significantly improves image stabilization performance to up to 7 exposure stops at the short end and up to 6 exposure stops at the telephoto end. This allows the photographer to capture powerful and dynamic moments with ample freedom of movement.

The lens is equipped with two OS modes: Mode 1 is suitable for general freehand shooting and Mode 2 is best for handheld pull-along shooting, such as motorsports and other dynamic subjects. In Mode 2, an accelerometer combined with SIGMA's Intelligent OS, an algorithm specifically designed for pull-along shooting, provides effective image stabilization even when the camera is moving vertically or diagonally, regardless of the horizontal and vertical orientation of the lens. As a result, the movement of the subject is shown to advantage and the dynamics of the pull-along are not lost.

Multi-material design for light weight and strong durability

The lens is made of a wide variety of high-quality materials, in which materials such as magnesium, CFRP_1 and TSC_2 are optimally arranged according to their properties. As a result, the lens is lighter yet retains the same robustness as previous models. This contributes to its high versatility in a wide range of scenes and applications.

*1 CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic - a lightweight but strong material used in aircraft construction, among other interior and exterior applications. *2 TSC (Thermally-Stable-Composite) is a polycarbonate that has a similar thermal expansion rate to aluminum. Its high affinity for metal parts contributes to high manufacturing quality standards.

Dual-Action Zoom for intuitive subject design

The lens features a dual-action Zoom that allows both Zooming by rotating the Zoomring and by pulling and pushing the front tube section. This allows for precise and quick response in any situation.

Dust and splash-proof, for greater safety in various shooting situations.

The mount, focus ring, Zoomring, switches, control panel and barrel connections are dust and splash proof* to prevent dust and dirt from entering the lens. In addition, the front lens has a water and oil repellent coating to facilitate cleaning when the lens has water droplets or dust adhering to it.

*The lens is dustproof and splashproof, but not waterproof. Be careful not to allow the lens to come into complete contact with water. Water inside a lens can cause great damage and even make it irreparable.

The lens features the high customizability and build quality of the SIGMA Sports product line

The SIGMA 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports incorporates the key features of SIGMA's Sports product line standards for portable, high-performance lenses. Manufactured at SIGMA's sole production facility in Aizu, Japan, the lens features exceptional build quality. The result is a combination of ruggedness, practicality and a high level of precision in every single detail.

Customizable functions

Equipped with a focus range limiter, the lens allows users to narrow the focus range of the AF as needed, enabling fast and precise focusing. In addition, the lens features three strategically placed AFL buttons that can be assigned to preferred camera functions* . The AFL buttons are easy to use regardless of how the camera is oriented or what settings are used. With the L-mount version of the lens, the SIGMA USB-DOCK UD-11 can be used as an option to additionally assign the preferred OS mode or focus area to the user mode buttons.

*Only with compatible cameras. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used.

Replaceable tripod clamp base

The lens tripod clamp features an Arca Swiss compatible magnesium alloy foot. This foot can be removed or swapped with another tripod clamp foot (sold separately) if needed, or attached to a monopod, opening up another variety of different uses.