Sony Launches α7 II, World’s First Full-Frame Camera with Optical 5-Axis Image Stabilisation

Sony’s new α7 II (ILCE-7M2) is the latest in the α7 series of interchangeable-lens models and the world’s first[1] camera with optical 5-axis image stabilisation designed for a full-frame image sensor.

The camera offers outstanding image quality in a compact size and light build, and takes forward the traditions of the α7 series that includes the world’s smallest and lightest interchangeable-lens full-frame camera.

Optical 5-axis Image Stabilisation

A 24.3 effective megapixel 35 mm full-frame Exmor® CMOS sensor moves along five axes to compensate for camera shake, providing optical image stabilisation equivalent to up to 4.5 steps faster shutter speed of correction[2] for still images.

Shooting sharp handheld stills and video is now possible under conditions that may have required a tripod in the past. In-camera image stabilisation also offers sharper images for those using A-mount lenses with a lens adapter.

The camera’s in-body image stabilisation is therefore effective even in combination with E-mount lenses without Optical

SteadyShot (OSS).

Speedy, accurate autofocus with Fast Hybrid AF

The camera offers wide AF coverage with the employment of a 117-point focal plane phase-detection AF sensor. The phase detection AF sensor and 25 contrast detection AF points are placed over a wide area of the screen. This makes use of the superior tracking capabilities of the phase detection AF and therefore enables clear capture of moving subjects that might otherwise evade focus.

The optimal lens drive in the α7 II enables the autofocus to be very responsive - 30 percent faster than in previous models.

Improved motion-prediction algorithm

The tracking ability is 1.5 times better due to an improved motion-prediction algorithm. This helps in tracking a subject and predicting the next movement.

Additionally, AF and automatic exposure (AE) continue to follow the subject during high-speed continuous shooting (up to 5 fps), capturing sudden movements and making sure the expression of the subject is never missed. Finally, greatly improved tracking ability and subject capture are made possible through the advances in image analysis technology with ‘lock-on AF’, a feature that optimises focusing on the subject in keeping with its size.

BIONZ X image processing engine for superb detail, natural textures and less noise

Loaded with an advanced BIONZ X image processing engine, the α7 II enhances images in several ways:

• Detail reproduction technology: Recreates natural-looking textures even in the minute details of an image.
• Diffraction-reducing technology: Prevents loss of detail when aperture setting is small.
• Improved Area-specific noise reduction: Greatly reduces noise while maintaining exceptional detail and texture even under low light conditions such as night time shooting and shooting indoors.

Enhanced usability and reliability

The shape of the grip and the height keeps the camera steady even when using a large telephoto lens. The shutter button has been shifted toward the front, to a position that feels more natural. Shooting comfort and convenience were a definite priority in the design of the α7 II. Ten customisable buttons can be assigned to any of the 56 functions. The tilting display features a White Magic™ LCD screen for exceptional visibility even under bright sunlight. The camera also has a quick start-up time after it is switched on - it is ready to shoot 40 percent sooner than current models[3].

The α7 II (ILCE-7M2) from Sony is currently available at all Jumbo Electronics outlets and select electronics retailers across the UAE.