Sony - 'Alpha A1 Mirrorless Camera'
(Body Only)
THE ONESony continues to challenge the limits of conventional imaging tools with innovative technology that delivers an unprecedented combination of resolution and speed plus intuitive operation. The α1 offers new dimensions of imaging performance as well as efficient workflow, giving the user new creative freedom.
Introducing Alpha 1
The α mission
The α mission is to give creators the power to realize their dreams. The α1 is its most potent expression to date
Sony Alpha 1 Sample Images
FE 24mm F1.4 GM, 1/250 sec, F5
FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS, 1/1250 sec, F6.3
FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, 1/1250 sec, F2.8
FE 600mm F4 GM OSS, 1/2500 sec, F5.6
50.1 Megapixel Full-Frame Sensor
50.1 megapixels at up to 30 frames/secondThe α1 offers an extraordinary combination of high resolution and blazing speed. Ultra-fast readout from the 50.1 MP sensor allows continuous bursts at up to 30 fps1 with AF and AE tracking using the electronic shutter. Perfect for sports or any situation where the critical action is over in an instant.
Blackout-free for an uninterrupted viewAn interrupted blackout-free view of the subject lets you respond instantly and seamlessly. The EVF is updated to minimise latency during continuous shooting.
(A) Blackout-free Shooting (B) Shooting with blackouts
120 AF/AE tracking calculations per secondFast sensor readout enables 120 AF/AE calculations per second2, even during 30 fps bursts, for pinpoint AF tracking precision with fast and erratic subjects. AE latency is less than 0.033sec.
(1) AF/AE calculations (2) 60 times/sec (3) 20 frames/sec
Silent, vibration-free shutterA silent4 electronic shutter provides greater opportunities for shooting sports and other subjects where noise is not tolerated. Vibration-free operation contributes to high image quality.
Anti-distortion ShutterFast sensor readout minimises still-image distortion5 when using the electronic shutter3. The BIONZ XRTM engine and a large buffer achieve about 1.5x less distortion than the α9 II.
[1] Conventional electronic shutter [2] Anti-distortion shutter
Flicker-free electronic
& mechanical shuttersAnother world first6: flicker-free electronic and mechanical shutters. You get flicker-free shooting under fluorescent/artificial lighting with all the benefits of the electronic shutter.
Anti-flicker [1] OFF [2] ON
Full-frame stacked 50.1 MP Exmor RS™
CMOS sensor with integral memoryA stacked architecture in this back-illuminated 50.1 MP full-frame image sensor contributes to high resolution and speed. Separate pixel and circuit layers and advanced A/D conversion mean faster processing.
All-new architecture and BIONZ XR
image processing engineThe new BIONZ XR engine features advanced architecture that delivers 8x greater processing power7. The result is outstanding image quality as well as improved camera interface response.
Advanced Flash Features for Broader Expression
Flash sync with electronic shutterFor the first time in an α camera, electronic shutter flash sync8 is possible thanks to high readout speed from the stacked CMOS sensor. All electronic shutter advantages remain available for flash shooting.
Dual driven shutter drive for flash sync up to 1/400 sec.The world’s first9 dual driven shutter system allows flash sync up to 1/400 sec., making it easier to capture dynamic action and opening the door to new creative possibilities.
Stunning Detail
Breathtaking resolution and image qualityThe new 50.1 MP Exmor RS CMOS sensor delivers high resolution and sensitivity with low noise, plus up to 15 stops10 of dynamic range. A new image processing engine achieves even better colour accuracy than previous models.
Wide ISO100 ~ 32000 sensitivity rangeDespite the sensor’s high pixel count, a sensitive back-illuminated structure with gapless on-chip lenses and an AR coated seal glass allows a standard ISO range of ISO100~32000, expandable to ISO50~10240011.
Pixel Shift Multi ShootingUp to 16 images shot with precise in-body image stabilization control can be combined via computer software to create photos with up to 199 million pixels for extraordinary resolution, colour, and atmosphere.12
[1] Normal Shooting [2] 16-image Pixel Shift Multi Shooting
Creative Look supports varied expressionThe Creative Look feature provides 10 presets that can be used unmodified or edited to create a variety of “looks” that can help creators fine-tune the mood of their stills or movies in-camera.
5-axis optical in-body image stabilisation for a 5.5-step advantageA precision stabilisation unit and gyro sensors plus the latest image stabilization algorithms deliver a 5.5 step13 shutter speed advantage, maximising the quality of high-resolution images.
[1] Yaw [2] Pitch [3] Roll
Unrivalled Autofocus
Real-time Eye AF for birdsHigh-level subject recognition technology now makes it possible for Sony’s Real-time Eye AF function to track and accurately focus on bird eyes, even if the bird suddenly takes flight or the framing changes. This innovative function easily meets the many challenges of bird photography15.
Improved Real-time Eye AF for animalsPrimarily designed for cats and dogs, this feature employs advanced subject recognition technology to reliably track and focus on animal eyes15. It even works if the animal’s face is upside-down.
Real-time Eye AFCombining state-of-the-art AI technology and evolved Fast Hybrid AF algorithms, Real-time Eye AF in the α1 tracks and focuses on human eyes with approximately 30% greater precision than the α9 II.
Real-time TrackingSelect a subject, half-press the shutter, and the camera will track and maintain focus automatically. Turn on AF face/eye priority for seamless AI-based tracking of human, animal, or bird eyes.
Wide, fast, precise AF trackingThe α1 features focal plane phase-detection AF that is sensitive, fast, and precise. The 50.1 MP sensor and BIONZ XR engine provide 759 selectable phase-detection points17 covering about 92% of the image.
New Movie Potential
Next-generation 8K18 30p recordingThe new image sensor and BIONZ XR engine in the α1 deliver 8K(7680×4320) 30p movie recording capability for extraordinary realism. Four times the resolution of 4K with full Real-time Tracking and Real-time Eye AF functionality. 8K footage is also ideally suited to flexible 4K editing.
4K movies at a high 120 fps frame rate19The α1 supports high frame rate internal 4K movie recording at up to 120 fps, for smooth, expressive slow-motion20 playback at up to 5x. 10-bit 4:2:2 chroma subsampling can be used with Long-GOP or Intra (All-I)21 compression for outstanding image quality, while the new image sensor and BIONZ XR engine minimize image distortion.
4K with full sensor readout, no pixel binning,
and 5.8K oversamplingIn the Super 35 mode approximately 2.3x the amount of data required for QFHD 4K is acquired through full-frame readout with no pixel binning for beautifully imagery that is rich in detail.
(A) 2.3 times information
10-bit 4:2:2 chroma subsampling10-bit depth, 4:2:2 chroma subsampling, a high-efficiency MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec, intra-frame coding, and more, support flexible editing and a variety of delivery formats.
Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking for moviesThe BIONZ XR engine features significantly improved detection, accurately tracking human eyes at a wider range of head angles. Also available for 8K and 4K 120p recording.
S-Log for compatibility with pro cine camerasS-Log2 and S-Log3 are included. S-Log3 provides smooth 10-bit gradations and a dynamic range of 15+ stops. S-Gamut, S-Gamut3, and S-Gamut3.Cine color spaces supported.
10-bit 4:2:222 HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) supportHigh-dynamic-range HLG movies support the wide-gamut BT.2020 colour space, and can be directly played on an HDR (HLG) compatible TV. 10-bit HLG recordings reproduce fine gradation and detail.
[1] High flexibility to fine-tune images as desired (colour grading required) [2] Instant high-quality image (colour grading not required)
16-bit RAW outputThe α1 allows 16-bit RAW output23 to an external recorder via HDMI for improved post-production flexibility. RAW output via HDMI is available while recording 4K to internal card media.
Digital audio interface for superior soundA digital audio interface delivers outstanding audio quality with compatible audio devices connected via the Multi Interface Shoe. Pristine digital audio is delivered directly to the camera.
Heat-dissipating structure for extended recordingA newly developed heat dissipating structure prevents overheating during continuous recording without increasing body size. Record 8K/30p or 4K/60p video continuously for up to 30 minutes24.
The cinematic S-Cinetone lookThe α1 includes the same S-Cinetone colour matrix that produces beautiful colour and skin tones in the FX9, FX6, and other Cinema Line cameras. S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones that are essential to healthy-looking skin colour, plus soft colours and gorgeous highlights, responding to a growing need for more expressive depth.
“Active Mode” image stabilisationA new Active Mode dedicated to movie shooting makes 5-axis optical image stabilisation highly effective for handheld shooting. It uses the BIONZ XR engine’s real-time processing capability to apply optimum compensation in all formats, including 4K26. All of this is realised without compromising the compact size and mobility of the α system.
Sony E-Mount Lenses
Advantages of Sony’s lenses for video shootingLearn the four unique advantages of using Sony's E-mount lens for video shooting. The combination of Sony's lenses and cameras will enhance your video creation experience.
Learn More Here
Control & Reliability
High-performance electronic viewfinderThe 9.44 million-dot (approx.) OLED viewfinder in the α1 offers the highest resolution in the industry at this time27. It features 0.90x magnification28 with a 41° FOV for a clear, wide view, and an updated structure that results in a 25mm high eyepoint29. A 240fps refresh rate with UXGA FOV is another world first27, for a clear view of fast action.
Panning shots with electronic shutter30Using electronic shutter at low shutter speeds can reduce display response, making it difficult to follow fast subjects. Turn [Low Frame Rate Limit] ON to improve display response and allow panning shots.
Seamlessly switch full-frame and APS-C formatsM and S size images31 have the same number of pixels and AF area in the full-frame and APS-C modes, so you can switch seamlessly between full-frame [M:21MP] and APS-C [M:21MP] while shooting the same scene.
[1] Full Frame [2] APS-C
Separate settings for stills and moviesA subset of the settings now change according to the selected mode. This is ideal when you want to use different aperture, shutter speed, and other settings for shooting stills and movies32.
New menu structureAnother feature requested by professional photographers and videographers: a revised menu structure for easier navigation, and touch-responsive menu operation for more intuitive control.
Customisable functions164 Functions are assignable to 17 custom keys as well as the front and rear dials. Independent function sets can be assigned for stills, movies, and playback.
Touch menu controlTouch-responsive main and function menus with menu tabs on the left of the display and related parameter groups and parameters on the right make for easy navigation and tracking control.
High-reliability mechanical shutterShutter vibration is minimised while allowing continuous bursts at up to 10 fps. The new shutter unit with advanced motor, brake, and dampers is good for more than 500,000 cycles33.
Two CFexpress Type A compatible media slotsDual media slots support UHS-I and UHS-II SDXC/SDHC cards as well as new CFexpress Type A cards for higher overall capacity and faster read/write speeds.
High-capacity Z-series Battery for extended recordingShoot up to 530 stills per charge. Components and circuitry have also been designed to optimize power use. Get more capacity with two Z batteries in the VG-C4EM grip.
Improved dust and moisture resistant designSealing is provided at all body seams and the battery cover. The media slots have a double sliding cover and lock that keep water out. A lens lock button and mount cushion help too.
Durable magnesium alloy chassisA light, rigid magnesium alloy enhances the durability of the top, front, and rear covers as well as the internal frame. 6 lens mount attachment screws add even more strength and rigidity.
Professional Workflow
Industry’s fastest6 built-in Wi-Fi supports 2x2 MIMOBuilt-in wireless LAN allows communication on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz36 bands, the latter with 2x2 MIMO support (IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac). Dual antennas ensure reliable communication.
SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps (USB 3.2) Type-C® connectorA USB Type-C® connector that supports fast USB 3.2 SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps data transfer makes fast PC Remote (tethered) data transfer available for smooth handling of large files.
1000BASE-T Ethernet for fast communicationA built-in connector for wired 1000BASE-T connection enables fast, stable data transfers at gigabit speeds. FTPS is supported, allowing SSL or TLS encryption for greater security.
Versatile FTP connectivityFTP still and movie uploads as well as remote camera control can be accomplished via wireless LAN, fast wired LAN, or a USB-tethered smartphone. File types for transfer can be specified.
FTP transfer of still and movie filesStills and movies can be transferred to a remote FTP server via wireless LAN, high-speed wired LAN, or a wired smartphone connection. Wireless data throughput is about 3.5x faster than the α9 II.
Versatile remote (tethered) shooting functionsThe Imaging Edge Desktop “Remote” application37 can be used for PC Remote (tethered) shooting via a wireless LAN or wired USB connection. Remote control from a mobile device is also possible.
Lossless compressed RAWThe α1 includes efficient lossless compression in addition to compressed and uncompressed RAW.
New “Light” JPEG sizeA new “Light” JPEG size setting results in smaller files than the “Standard” setting, allowing faster deliver for news and sports photographers who depend on speed.
10-bit HEIF for smoother gradationsHEIF format can deliver smooth 10-bit gradations for more realistic reproduction of skies and portrait subjects. Advanced compression reduces file size for improved workflow efficiency.
A Range of Supporting Applications
Imaging Edge MobileImaging Edge Mobile now allows transfer of RAW files and files that use lossless compression. It can also remotely control Touch Tracking and Touch Focus for convenient AF operation.
Transfer & Tagging add-onThe Transfer & Tagging add-on (Ver. 1.3 or later) can automatically covert voice memos attached to image files to text captions or transfer the files to an FTP server from a mobile device.
Remote Camera ToolRemotely change camera settings and shoot from a computer connected via LAN cable. A number of refinements for the α1: faster transfer, touch response, dual slot and HEIF support, and more.
Imaging Edge™ Remote, Viewer,
and Edit desktop appsElevate your photography with Imaging Edge desktop applications. Use “Remote” to control and monitor shooting live on your PC screen; “Viewer” to quickly preview, rate, and select photos from large image libraries; and “Edit” to develop RAW data into high-quality photos for delivery38.
Mirrorless Camera as a Webcam
Imaging Edge™ WebcamThe Imaging Edge Webcam application makes it easy to use your Sony camera as a high-quality webcam, with wide compatibility, for impressive live streaming and conferencing.
Details about the application
