I’ve been looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this camera. I sincerely enjoy your thoughtful analysis even though my needs (or skill) are no where near yours. But damn dude, now I’m thinking I need to get one of these bad boys! Thanks and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts once you get your hands on one. Cheers!
Excellent video as always and thank you for the complete rundown, and the real-world tidbits important to the pros that most other reviews never cover. I knew you'd be happy about that 1/400 sync! Keep it up!
lol, YES!!! 1/400th sync is like waking up Christmas morning to one of those pedal driven sheet metal fire trucks with the ladder and bell under the tree for those of us that shoot n strobes in arenas.
Loved hearing your preview. I had never thought about the 1/400 sync that way or about the cine lenses and super 35 crop. Excellent points. Much appreciated.
Great review Pat! Nice to hear your take on this amazing new camera, from the point of view of a photojournalist. The A1 looks like a dream come true camera for a lot of professional photographers.
A great run-through Patrick! I have been waiting for the ultimate hybrid for many years and had basically given up even with the recent batch of 2020 cameras. This looks like the one. I live in Sweden and have already pre-ordered so I unfortunately cannot help you with the affiliate link but I do really appreciate your ‘real user’ content (even as a Canon user since 1983 😉). I totally understand the fine details of what Sony are delivering here on both stills and video. Yes, it is not cheap but I think your input here will sell Sony quite a few cameras because you have explained those features that other pre-reviewers on You Tube just do not understand the significance of or just do not need!🙏🏾
Eugene, you just made my hours of work worth it! Thanks so much for your kind words!!! I love the time I got to spend in Malmo when SONY Nordic sent me there in 2017. I met some of the nicest shooters there--I hope I get to return to your beautiful country again soon (in summer). Please tell anyone from SONY I want to come back!!!
I am glad that you enjoyed Sweden Patrick. I moved here from England in 1987 after starting my stills career in 1983 in London. Sony should send you over again immediately, because over the past few years I have been asking my sports stills shooter colleagues (I now mainly film for live broadcast specialising in sport) when they were going to take the plunge and move to mirrorless. Four years ago, they were very conservative and laughed at me, two years ago some had an extra body that they used for non sport jobs (mainly Sony), when the A9 came out many loved the features but the lack of voice recording and restricted connectivity was the deal breaker! When the A9II came out I saw my first Sony on the side lines with the 400 2.8. So far, I have only seen two guys that shoot sports with Sony but I know that many are extremely interested, especially the Canon shooters. I think the A1 is going to finally be the camera that enables many of them to take the leap. If there is ever a time for Sony to make inroads here in Sweden it is now because many are going to prepare for a working life post Covid-19 and will probably dare to lease their future kit before the summer.🙏🏾
I agree-just use it as a podcast--there are no flashy photos or video clips here, just me yaking. Turn your phone over--that's what I'd do! If I used a wider lens, I'd have to have cleaned my office... See how that works? LOL
thanks Matt!!! If you are a Sony Pro Service member, be sure to call them up, ask for Steve and get them your membership number for priority shipping when they come in.
Patrick...HANDS DOWN....your 'review' (preview?) is the BEST on ANY site! You have translated numbers from specs into real value/benefits. Your points on 'push-in' and money savings with the A1 are surprising but practical and reasonable if you think about the reduced lens count (and convenience). It's really starting to look like the A1 merged not two cams (that everyone else rambles about) but three (A9ii, A7Riv, AND A7Siii). One of these three has to suffer - which do you think will fall first?
valid points all, but the big benefit of a1 to SONY users might just be the fact that there will be many a9II's and a7RIV's available on the used market, which will drive prices down. One of the issues for new SONY users is there is never enough used options out there. While this won't affect us for a while longer on the lens front, at least their best cameras will be available used as the few that can justify the a1 start getting their bodies. Used a7SIII's for instance are like unicorns in the marketplace. Same with the a9II's--just very few of them out there. So, it a weird way, the a1 is going to make attaining a7SIII (video), a7RIV (landscape/portrait), and a9II (sports, PJ) more accessible than ever before. This is a good thing for everyone!
Patrick, greatly appreciate your perspective and the deep knowledge and experience you lend to the discussion on this camera. I pre-ordered immediately when it went on sale. I am super, SUPER excited to create wildlife and active dog shots with this thing! :)
Patrick, thanks for your reviews. Your ability to explain things about cameras and how it changes things for you has been very valuable to me. Keep the videos coming, I’m really looking forward to your review when you get the camera in your hands. Secondly as an amateur my wife hates you for talking me into new cameras :-) When they introduced the camera I was thinking this ticks all the boxes you spoke about during your A9ii review.
In particular I was interested to hear your thoughts on the A1 as you shoot sports. The most impressive improvements on the A1 are the ones that won’t necessarily grab the headlines but will make all the difference when capturing images. Look forward to seeing your full review...
totally agree. At this point, very few people seem to understand what tracking is and how it works, including Tony Northrup. The speed and accuracy of the AF is more than twice as good as the a9II which already had no peer. I can't wait to actually shoot one!!!!
Fantastic incisive review, Pat, as usual. I wear spectacles like yourself - so the EVF is a really big deal for us. But then again, the whole thing is a big deal - as there are so many massive improvements across all areas. What a camera! - it actually sounds cheap at the price when you consider what you're getting (the ultimate camera that can do EVERYTHING (and at a phenomenally high level)). I'm looking forward to your "real world" review of the camera when you get your hands on it. By the way, I did email you on 30th November and again on 12th January - but never received any acknowledgement - so I'm guessing that my emails are in your junk mail folder? Have a great weekend!
When you shoot JPEG or HEIF and set the resolution to M (21MP), the camera will keep that resolution for both FF and crop mode, so, if you think 50MP are too many, you can have 21 at all times, with and without punch in. Source: Sony A1 page.
I was wondering about that! Thanks for checking. Anyway, why did it take so long for a manufacturer to offer a better compressed file format than JPEG? I mean, JP2K was around, what, 20 years ago? So much for 'innovation'. But Sony at least has this now. The reason it matters to me is that I want to make RAW redundant.
@@Biosynchro I remember when JPG2000 showed up as a file saving possibility in the early days of PS when they delivered it on floppy discs. That never became the standard everyone thought it might be and I'm not sure why. I know I have never received a jpg2000 file or saved one either... I think the HEIF format has a better chance of getting real world use, especially in light of the fact that Apple has been using them in their phones for a while now...
@@PMRTV Official page says: "Seamlessly switch full-frame and APS-C formats M and S size images have the same number of pixels in the full-frame and APS-C modes*36, so you can switch seamlessly between full-frame [M:M21] and APS-C [M:M21], for example, while shooting the same scene. And because the full array of 759 phase detection points is available in APS-C mode as well as full-frame mode, you get the same smooth AF performance. [1] Full Frame [2] APS-C". *36 = when using a Full Frame lens www.sony.com/electronics/interchangeable-lens-cameras/ilce-1/specifications I'd say this is one of the features you should test once you have your hands on the camera! Yeah, looking at the specs now, it will work perfectly with stills (JPEG + HEIF, since there is no small RAW)! Look: IMAGE SIZE (PIXELS) [3:2] 35 mm full frame L: 8640 x 5760 (49.7M), M: 5616 x 3744 (21M), S: 4320 x 2880 (12.4M), APS-C M: 5616 x 3744 (21M), S: 4320 x 2880 (12.4M) As you can see, the M size is 21M for both FF and APS-C, and the S size is 12.4M for both FF and APS-C. This means that if you choose M mode, the MP remains at 21M for both FF and APS-C. Amazing feature, and that's one I was looking for.
Hey I just stumbled across this - nice job I think the first person who has been able to talk about how this camera will make a difference in detail - like the 3 frames in the air for sports. And 1 stop more for low light than the a9. And continuous af/ae at f22 is crazy !! 200-600+TC1.4 BIF at 840mm - saving heaps not needing the 600f4 - exactly !! Subscribed... Everyone else is asking - well who needs this? This thing will last me 10 years at least - that's around $650/year - as much as many spend on mobile phones every year. Just finished watching this and this is by far the best review I have come across. Seriously the others are just rank amateurs by comparison.
Thought about you as soon as they mentioned the flash sync. So glad you were not comparing it to other makes, as most people watching this will be Sony users, who already have invested big money in Sony gear. Cant wait to see full user reviews.
Seem that many people could shoot sports with the a1 in crop mode and a 70-200 2.8 GM and still have 21MP. Thinking more of comparison with Canon 1DX III than comparison with a9II.
Patrick simple question really, do you think or know will there be an A9iii, A1 minus video features & lower mp count perhaps 🤔 but all else the same, great vid & looking forward to you getting your hands on it & letting us know your thoughts 💭, beannachtaí from Éire 🇮🇪 Peter
no idea, but then again, if I did know, I wouldn't be able to tell you... LOL. I found out about the a1 when everyone else did, when I watched the presser with awe :)
@@PMRTV this A1 is really out there OMG, to the point it goes way beyond my needs, it’s stills specs I’d use with joy so fingers crossed they show love to their dethroned king the Alpha 9 by firmware or new prince body (A9iii) But this is really exciting for camera industry overall Thanks for getting back Patrick P
I think you are the best who talk about Sony a, and I have 600mm 400mm 100-400 the best lenses for this camera, your words are convincing and full of information
Thanks for your profound inputs as a pro! Hope so much the bird eye focus will be good as advertised. No video showed in sony's presentation, only one single picture...
The problem with the 200-600 isn't AF, it's light/aperture/ISO. I shoot with the 600mm f/4, and I don't think I have ever stopped down past f/8. I can't imagine having to shoot with f/8 as my "wide-open" aperture (1.4TC).
I agree but then I have one. Most people can't afford the 400GM and 600GM. I was trying to make the point that AF is possible now at f/22. On the original a7, I think it was only possible at f/8. I thing a7III got us to f/11, and so on...
Thanks for your valuable insight Patrick - it surely is a beast. I presently have an A7Riii (portraiture / landscape) and A7iii (real estate video) and have been toying with the idea of replacing the A7iii for an A7Siii. I don’t commercially shoot action however I do use my A7Riii to shoot my kids playing soccer. Consequently the release of the A1 has set my mind racing! If I purchase the A1 I can replace all existing cameras and be reasonably future proof for many years to come (it’s more than enough!). However, in your opinion, would my existing Sandisk 128GB /170MB/s be a problem or would I need to outlay additional funds for CFExpress cards?
your cards will work fine until you want to shoot your kids. At that point, you will need to get at least a Sony G card (295/300 mbs) or just go all the way to the Cfast cards made for a1. If you don't get the Cfast card, you will be waiting on your much slower cards to try to keep up with the camera's new processor and they will always lose. In effect, the a1 will lock up until it can pour 10 gallons of files into a small hose... here is the card you will need: amzn.to/3r75fyM
Greatly appreciate all the work you do and information. You mentioned about moving "back" the viewfinder look for glasses wearers. Could you please list where it is located in the Menu system. Thank you
Yes, absolutely, go to the yellow suitcase menu, then click right to "Viewfinder Magnifi." This is on page 45. Default will be "standard." Select, "zoom-out" instead and presto!!!
Out of all the reviews using Sony’s specs, yours is by far the best. When you get the camera and do a review, please show how to adjust EVF for us eyeglass users. Thanks for all your videos, they are great.
I was just out trying to photograph eagles in -29C weather so maybe my brain is frozen lol - but may you run me through how the 200-600 on an Alpha 1 is better than an A9II with the 600? I'm thinking you mean by cost only? I have the 200-600 and while I like it, I find I never use it because I have the 400 2.8 on an A7RIV and I just crop like I have a 600 yet I still have that low light capability. I'm curious. Thanks Patrick. Can't wait to see your real world review after using the Alpha 1
Yes it does do some pixel binning how much and how it looks we have to see. To make makes sense to go to about the same pixels as in crop mode since it means the same amount of work/workflow.
Patrick can you clear up something I saw on another channel, they said the flash sync with elec shutter is only active with ON CAMERA FLASH, is that accurate?
yes, it is... the wording is difficult to understand. Saony says that 1/200th sync on electronic shutter is not available through the sync perminal (PC Outlet) on the side of the camera. This sync terminal is the same as the single pin in the middle of the hot-shoe. That means that the only flash units that can achieve this are going to have to have the MIS (multi interface shoe). So for sure Sony's own branded strobes will work. What I'm hoping is that other strobe manufacturers' triggers that use the MIS will also work. If we are able to use godox, elinchrom, profoto, and rimelite strobes in this way, it will be awesome. I will be able to let you know for sure once they send me a camera to evaluate and test with....
Upgraded from the A9 which Sony gave us a Firmware Update to an A9II... In your opinion... Do you think Sony will give us another Firmware Update for the A9II?
it only makes sense but remember, much of the new innovation in the a1 is hardware, so don't expect to get more FPS or 8k video out of the a9II. I think we will see menus change and improve and some other things but like the 1/400th sync is all hardware with the new shutter.
I totally forgot about that. it needs it's own video showing how useful the phone is for PJ's working on deadline (no other phone can move pictures faster in the world), and how pro video shooters can use the phone to both stream as well as use it as a true 4K monitor in the field!
Finally Patrick! I kept checking your YT Channel every hour to hear your thoughts on the A!! I still don't understand why you did not get one in advance so you could have a hands-on review ready at launch! 😮🤔 Shame on Sony!! 😡
Can someone explain why this new camera is $6,500 in the US, yet if we try and pre-order it here in Scotland from Wex Photography at £6,500 now is it 6,500 in Africa or Canada, what I'm saying is what about the current exchange rate.
Sounds and looks amazing, will have to stay with my recently purchased a7r4 and a9ii and hope a few things filter down the firmware chain. Even with no camera in your hands I would rather listen to you than some of those fake click baiters on UA-cam ...
Yup of course I’m salivating watching this video may be on my Christmas list now maybe I’ll upgrade from my a92 I already have the 400 2.8 and with the increased resolution I’ll be killing it. Patrick, you have explained this very well thank you.
With a credential from a legitimate media outlet or for a team that has hired you to shoot for them. It's on my bucket list for sure... Probably in Montreal or Austin, TX.
Patrick I shoot mostly wildlife ( and my 2 border collies LOL) I have a very specific technical question. Well respected sports shooters have eluded to a ground braking crop mode when using FF lenses that oversamples for a more detailed image and retains the full focus points. Is there some place to get more information about this? or could you do a video about the real difference, I suspect this is a hidden gem that needs to be explained in more detail, this camera is really ground braking in so many ways 😊
This was so much better than listening to Jared Polins subjective BS: Oh, no it shoots too many frames per second. Why would anyone EVER want 30 fps? Look through the EVF or you're not a real professional.
yes, when you give youtube a 34 min. video, they are going to squeeze some ads in there. I'm just trying to recoup a little from the time it takes me to research, write, record, edit, and upload the video. I have about two days invested in this one. Now I spend time responding to as many responses as I can. Does it make more sense now why there are ads? Hope so :). pm-r
no, it was with the a6600 but it does eye af and all that-thanks, it's great and never misses a beat! also, using the 30mm f/1.4 Sigma lens--awesome chunk of glass as is the 16mm f/1.4
The A1 is cool. I would like on but t is not for me. However, the future looks interesting. Hopefully some of the new tech gets into the A7IV. Hope Canon and Nikon and all the others bring great products. Competition is good
agreed! You can expect the new menu system in the replacement of the a7III for sure and many other features those menus offer. SONY is good about doing FW updates and bringing features of their newer cameras backwards into their older models when the hardware in the older models makes that possible. 1/400th sync, for instance is going to stay unique to the a1...
For me it’s the anti-flicker using the electronic shutter. I occasionally shoot modern dance concerts and the banding from the LED stage lights is just awful. I can’t use the noisy mechanical shutter or reduce shutter speed where everything is a blur. This is heaven sent.
I feel the α1-at 6500 USD like a flagship DSLR-is a bargain. It's the truest flagship from any maker since select sensors had first doubled flagships' resolution, which remained lower to attain high frame rates. If simply the α1's mechanical shutter had approached 15 fps-apparently not simple to engineer-then even 7500 USD would be a bargain. Perhaps the only headscratcher is the α1's monitor: standard resolution and no tilt along portrait orientation. Yet I'm thrilled that the α1 lacks a "pro body" and perpetuates Sony's standard form factor, comfortable for _me_ since the α7R II and grown twice since then without bulking. Still, I think that the α1 merited a slightly deeper grip and a unique, enlarged battery. Oh, well. Some of my other wishes-the on/off switch elsewhere, a recessed slider to lock all settings, the lens release on the other side, a few custom buttons in that freed space, and traditional bars for strap anchors-are likewise absent from the α1. Yet firmware updates could still add radio flash triggering, a prerecord buffer of variable duration and frame rate, and a precise aid to manual focus.
Are you aware of the Sony GP-X1EM Grip Extension? it will give you that little extra real estate for your pinky finger that you are looking for without the VG. Here is a link to it: amzn.to/36qvHeO "a recessed slider to lock all settings [THIS ALREADY EXISTS BY PUSHING AND HOLDING THE FN BUTTON Here is a video from Mark Galer on this topic: ua-cam.com/video/7zfUb1EvJVM/v-deo.html], the lens release on the other side [THIS IS A SYSTEM DECISION THAT WAS MADE A LONG TIME AGO AT SONY AND WILL NOT CHANGE--I'VE THOUGHT ABOUT THIS TOO AND IT SIMPLY REQUIRES YOU TO REVERSE YOUR HANDS WHEN DOING LENS CHANGES- BUT IT DOES TAKE SOME GETTING USED TO, YOU'RE RIGHT], a few custom buttons in that freed space, and traditional bars for strap anchors-are likewise absent from the α1 [IT TOO SHARE YOUR INTEREST IN THE STRAP BARS--IT WOULD MAKE SETTING HANGING REMOTES ABOVE BASKETBALL AND HOCKEY MUCH SAFER TO HAVE A LARGER YOKE TO PUT SATEY CABLES THROUGH], a prerecord buffer of variable duration [ARTISANS HAVE BEEN ASKING FOR THIS FOR A COUPE YEARS--IT WOULD BE AMAZING!!!] and frame rate, and a precise aid to manual focus [I FEEL LIKE WE ALREADY HAVE THIS WHNE YOU CONSIDER FOCUS PEAKING WITH THREE LEVELS OF SENSITIVITY AND THE AUTO ZOOM FEATURE FOR PRECISE MF].
I am so wanting to get this camera but $$$$$. Will have to look at what I might have to sale to get there. Maybe Sony will follow up with A9III at a much reduced cost but with the A7RIV and A1 still tech.
Dear Sony, request/ suggestion: make the shutter button force sensitive so we have the option of adjusting frame rate by changing finger pressure on the shutter. Thanks for the video, maybe you could pass the suggestion on Patrick.
Thank you Patrick, much better than some of the nonsense from UA-camrs (who seem to have their nose out of joint because they had to find out the specs with the rest of us)..
Well, i think non pros don´t need 50MP and 30FPS. BTW, that 30FPS are not with any Glass, that´s to be mentioned as well! It´s often forgotten!!! I sometimes shoot Tennis and the A9II does the job more than good...(for me)
Can you use the USB-C port to tether to an SSD and offload pictures in real time instead of using $400 CF Express Type A cards? 1tb SSD is about $150 and the USB-C is 10gb/s which means it'll write to the SSD faster than it would the CF Express cards. I wouldn't mind having to tether my A1 on the field to a small SSD in my pocket to get around these ludicrous storage costs for only 160gb (thats only 68 seconds of shooting btw at 50mpx30fps)
That I am aware, there are no protocols setup to re-route the data to a USB-C mounted storage. The other problem is powering the SSD. I'm sure the camera possibly could supply it, but how much it would impact overall battery life is likely significant. One thing you can do is USB TRANSFER to a mobile phone using Imaging Edge Mobile. Of course you could pick up an Xperia Pro to blaze through those files. P.S. - Imaging Edge Mobile when paired with the Alpha 1 DOES have TOUCH AF.
@@PMRTV That's a shame, to get even close to 1tb of storage the user would need to spend over $1500. Hopefully they can do this with a firmware update.
About 8 months ago you released a video suggesting future improvements to the the a9II that I agreed with 100%. Unfortunately we got less than 20% of our wishes with the a1. My major disappointment is the fixation of Sony with the small poor ergonomic bodies, the same size SD style cards, etc. They could have moved some buttons as you suggested as well as getting rid of the manual controls in the top left side of the camera. Let's see what the Canon R1 will bring.
@@PMRTV It was a fine overview and i suspect we will found out more details. I would normally not correct this but it was kind of a big one. Looking forward to your first real review of this monster. The speed might in fact be more then 8x more because some of its 'power' is hidden in the stacked sensor part and next to the 1.5x faster readout time we are not 100% sure what is hidden in there..... I feel comfy in claiming that the A1 probably has 10x to 12x more power then the A9 if we take that info account. What is amazing is if it still has the same battery life since that would mean the power/watt jump is massive and probably the shutter is now even more the part that you don't want to use since that is the battery drain.
what about you can not afford £6500 for the camera let alone the 600mm f4,also native iso is lower than a9 32,000 v 51,000 so a stop worse its just physics.
![Sony Alpha 1 Menu Settings for Sports and Action Photography by Patrick Murphy-Racey [sony a1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/mKpgwVG8Xv8/mqdefault.jpg)
![Sony Alpha 1 Menu Settings for Sports and Action Photography by Patrick Murphy-Racey [sony a1]](/img/tr.png)
Best "pre"-review until now. Thank you, man!
my pleasure!
Yes always keen to hear Patricks view !
I’ve been looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this camera. I sincerely enjoy your thoughtful analysis even though my needs (or skill) are no where near yours. But damn dude, now I’m thinking I need to get one of these bad boys! Thanks and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts once you get your hands on one. Cheers!
thanks so much. I love cameras and this one expands my love that was ever possible.
Likewise
Was waiting on this. Thanks for this Pat! Can’t wait to see what you do once you get your hands on this monster of a camera.
You and me both!
Excellent video as always and thank you for the complete rundown, and the real-world tidbits important to the pros that most other reviews never cover. I knew you'd be happy about that 1/400 sync! Keep it up!
lol, YES!!! 1/400th sync is like waking up Christmas morning to one of those pedal driven sheet metal fire trucks with the ladder and bell under the tree for those of us that shoot n strobes in arenas.
Loved hearing your preview. I had never thought about the 1/400 sync that way or about the cine lenses and super 35 crop. Excellent points. Much appreciated.
thanks Joe!
Great review Pat! Nice to hear your take on this amazing new camera, from the point of view of a photojournalist. The A1 looks like a dream come true camera for a lot of professional photographers.
It really is. What assignment is it not ready for? Hope you are well old friend...
Great video Patrick. Finally a video with more than what everybody already know about the camera
thanks tal!!!
Thanks, Patrick. You’ve convinced me to upgrade ASAP!
thanks Howard, me too!!!!
Me too !
Best “non hands on preview yet” As always straight to the point, no irritating graphics and flying logos etc. Hope you get one in your hands soon 👍
me too!!!!
A great run-through Patrick! I have been waiting for the ultimate hybrid for many years and had basically given up even with the recent batch of 2020 cameras. This looks like the one. I live in Sweden and have already pre-ordered so I unfortunately cannot help you with the affiliate link but I do really appreciate your ‘real user’ content (even as a Canon user since 1983 😉). I totally understand the fine details of what Sony are delivering here on both stills and video. Yes, it is not cheap but I think your input here will sell Sony quite a few cameras because you have explained those features that other pre-reviewers on You Tube just do not understand the significance of or just do not need!🙏🏾
Eugene, you just made my hours of work worth it! Thanks so much for your kind words!!! I love the time I got to spend in Malmo when SONY Nordic sent me there in 2017. I met some of the nicest shooters there--I hope I get to return to your beautiful country again soon (in summer). Please tell anyone from SONY I want to come back!!!
I am glad that you enjoyed Sweden Patrick. I moved here from England in 1987 after starting my stills career in 1983 in London. Sony should send you over again immediately, because over the past few years I have been asking my sports stills shooter colleagues (I now mainly film for live broadcast specialising in sport) when they were going to take the plunge and move to mirrorless. Four years ago, they were very conservative and laughed at me, two years ago some had an extra body that they used for non sport jobs (mainly Sony), when the A9 came out many loved the features but the lack of voice recording and restricted connectivity was the deal breaker! When the A9II came out I saw my first Sony on the side lines with the 400 2.8. So far, I have only seen two guys that shoot sports with Sony but I know that many are extremely interested, especially the Canon shooters. I think the A1 is going to finally be the camera that enables many of them to take the leap. If there is ever a time for Sony to make inroads here in Sweden it is now because many are going to prepare for a working life post Covid-19 and will probably dare to lease their future kit before the summer.🙏🏾
can't wait for your hands on review
me too!!!!!!!
26 Feb :-)
Can't wait to get hold of this camera
Great video but framing is way to tight in my opinion.More social distance please !
I second that - I had to move back from my desk...
I agree-just use it as a podcast--there are no flashy photos or video clips here, just me yaking. Turn your phone over--that's what I'd do! If I used a wider lens, I'd have to have cleaned my office... See how that works? LOL
Actually, very clever way to cover hair loss. PMR is way smarter than most. :)
Or he is a veteran photographer and knows the value of the close-up in an intimate encounter with a large audience.
@@barrycrawford1117 There is a fine line...
Just Pre-ordered one from Bedfords, thanks for the discount!
thanks Matt!!! If you are a Sony Pro Service member, be sure to call them up, ask for Steve and get them your membership number for priority shipping when they come in.
Patrick...HANDS DOWN....your 'review' (preview?) is the BEST on ANY site! You have translated numbers from specs into real value/benefits. Your points on 'push-in' and money savings with the A1 are surprising but practical and reasonable if you think about the reduced lens count (and convenience). It's really starting to look like the A1 merged not two cams (that everyone else rambles about) but three (A9ii, A7Riv, AND A7Siii). One of these three has to suffer - which do you think will fall first?
valid points all, but the big benefit of a1 to SONY users might just be the fact that there will be many a9II's and a7RIV's available on the used market, which will drive prices down. One of the issues for new SONY users is there is never enough used options out there. While this won't affect us for a while longer on the lens front, at least their best cameras will be available used as the few that can justify the a1 start getting their bodies. Used a7SIII's for instance are like unicorns in the marketplace. Same with the a9II's--just very few of them out there. So, it a weird way, the a1 is going to make attaining a7SIII (video), a7RIV (landscape/portrait), and a9II (sports, PJ) more accessible than ever before. This is a good thing for everyone!
Patrick, greatly appreciate your perspective and the deep knowledge and experience you lend to the discussion on this camera. I pre-ordered immediately when it went on sale. I am super, SUPER excited to create wildlife and active dog shots with this thing! :)
the added value of animal EYE AF working on birds even from the side is awesome!!!!
One of the only reviews I trust, thank you Patrick
thanks Ruben!!!
Patrick, thanks for your reviews. Your ability to explain things about cameras and how it changes things for you has been very valuable to me. Keep the videos coming, I’m really looking forward to your review when you get the camera in your hands. Secondly as an amateur my wife hates you for talking me into new cameras :-) When they introduced the camera I was thinking this ticks all the boxes you spoke about during your A9ii review.
LOL, yeah... I drive my wife crazy too...
Great review PMR
thanks brother!!! Ciao!!!
Excellent preview, covering the things that really are important. I refrained from getting the A9II, now I'm glad that I did. Wish it was $5K!
lol, you and me both!
Good move glad I did not buy the A7R4 or the A7sIII !
Great information as always PMR!!! Keep up the great work!
THANKS JEFF!!! a1 should help you a ton covering the MMA's!!!
great take Pat!
thanks Paul!
In particular I was interested to hear your thoughts on the A1 as you shoot sports. The most impressive improvements on the A1 are the ones that won’t necessarily grab the headlines but will make all the difference when capturing images.
Look forward to seeing your full review...
totally agree. At this point, very few people seem to understand what tracking is and how it works, including Tony Northrup. The speed and accuracy of the AF is more than twice as good as the a9II which already had no peer. I can't wait to actually shoot one!!!!
Fantastic incisive review, Pat, as usual. I wear spectacles like yourself - so the EVF is a really big deal for us. But then again, the whole thing is a big deal - as there are so many massive improvements across all areas. What a camera! - it actually sounds cheap at the price when you consider what you're getting (the ultimate camera that can do EVERYTHING (and at a phenomenally high level)). I'm looking forward to your "real world" review of the camera when you get your hands on it. By the way, I did email you on 30th November and again on 12th January - but never received any acknowledgement - so I'm guessing that my emails are in your junk mail folder?
Have a great weekend!
I'll look for the e-mails and get back to you Paul--and thanks for the kind words :)
Can't believe it getting mine early March will have to see it too ...
When you shoot JPEG or HEIF and set the resolution to M (21MP), the camera will keep that resolution for both FF and crop mode, so, if you think 50MP are too many, you can have 21 at all times, with and without punch in. Source: Sony A1 page.
I was wondering about that! Thanks for checking.
Anyway, why did it take so long for a manufacturer to offer a better compressed file format than JPEG? I mean, JP2K was around, what, 20 years ago? So much for 'innovation'. But Sony at least has this now. The reason it matters to me is that I want to make RAW redundant.
thanks for that very important add!!! But this is for jpeg only, correct? Or is it also for stills???
@@Biosynchro I remember when JPG2000 showed up as a file saving possibility in the early days of PS when they delivered it on floppy discs. That never became the standard everyone thought it might be and I'm not sure why. I know I have never received a jpg2000 file or saved one either... I think the HEIF format has a better chance of getting real world use, especially in light of the fact that Apple has been using them in their phones for a while now...
@@PMRTV Official page says: "Seamlessly switch full-frame and APS-C formats
M and S size images have the same number of pixels in the full-frame and APS-C modes*36, so you can switch seamlessly between full-frame [M:M21] and APS-C [M:M21], for example, while shooting the same scene. And because the full array of 759 phase detection points is available in APS-C mode as well as full-frame mode, you get the same smooth AF performance. [1] Full Frame [2] APS-C".
*36 = when using a Full Frame lens
www.sony.com/electronics/interchangeable-lens-cameras/ilce-1/specifications
I'd say this is one of the features you should test once you have your hands on the camera!
Yeah, looking at the specs now, it will work perfectly with stills (JPEG + HEIF, since there is no small RAW)! Look:
IMAGE SIZE (PIXELS) [3:2]
35 mm full frame L: 8640 x 5760 (49.7M), M: 5616 x 3744 (21M), S: 4320 x 2880 (12.4M),
APS-C M: 5616 x 3744 (21M), S: 4320 x 2880 (12.4M)
As you can see, the M size is 21M for both FF and APS-C, and the S size is 12.4M for both FF and APS-C.
This means that if you choose M mode, the MP remains at 21M for both FF and APS-C.
Amazing feature, and that's one I was looking for.
Hey I just stumbled across this - nice job I think the first person who has been able to talk about how this camera will make a difference in detail - like the 3 frames in the air for sports. And 1 stop more for low light than the a9. And continuous af/ae at f22 is crazy !! 200-600+TC1.4 BIF at 840mm - saving heaps not needing the 600f4 - exactly !! Subscribed...
Everyone else is asking - well who needs this?
This thing will last me 10 years at least - that's around $650/year - as much as many spend on mobile phones every year.
Just finished watching this and this is by far the best review I have come across. Seriously the others are just rank amateurs by comparison.
wow, made my day with your compliments! thanks much Duncan!
Good call !
200-600er x 1.4 TC = approx. 9 against 600er x 1.4 TC = 4 Hmmm, not the same light at disposal (forest, twilight, mist)
@@Mac_Sony Sure but I can live with that if I can capture the same shots as the a9 at 50mp.
@@duncangroenewald Right, you can live with that, 'till you can see the difference (believe me). ; )
Always great work!!!!!!
thanks much!!!
Thought about you as soon as they mentioned the flash sync. So glad you were not comparing it to other makes, as most people watching this will be Sony users, who already have invested big money in Sony gear. Cant wait to see full user reviews.
Seem that many people could shoot sports with the a1 in crop mode and a 70-200 2.8 GM and still have 21MP. Thinking more of comparison with Canon 1DX III than comparison with a9II.
Amazing ability to do that !
Patrick simple question really, do you think or know will there be an A9iii, A1 minus video features & lower mp count perhaps 🤔 but all else the same, great vid & looking forward to you getting your hands on it & letting us know your thoughts 💭, beannachtaí from Éire 🇮🇪 Peter
no idea, but then again, if I did know, I wouldn't be able to tell you... LOL. I found out about the a1 when everyone else did, when I watched the presser with awe :)
@@PMRTV this A1 is really out there OMG, to the point it goes way beyond my needs, it’s stills specs I’d use with joy so fingers crossed they show love to their dethroned king the Alpha 9 by firmware or new prince body (A9iii)
But this is really exciting for camera industry overall
Thanks for getting back Patrick
P
I think you are the best who talk about Sony a, and I have 600mm 400mm 100-400 the best lenses for this camera, your words are convincing and full of information
thanks so much!!!
Always looking for Patricks report card !
Thanks for your profound inputs as a pro! Hope so much the bird eye focus will be good as advertised. No video showed in sony's presentation, only one single picture...
I tried it with a dog today and it was killer!!!!
The problem with the 200-600 isn't AF, it's light/aperture/ISO. I shoot with the 600mm f/4, and I don't think I have ever stopped down past f/8. I can't imagine having to shoot with f/8 as my "wide-open" aperture (1.4TC).
I agree but then I have one. Most people can't afford the 400GM and 600GM. I was trying to make the point that AF is possible now at f/22. On the original a7, I think it was only possible at f/8. I thing a7III got us to f/11, and so on...
Same here pairing the 600f4 with the 1.4tc at 5.6 but for my birds always going for shallow depth of field !
Thanks for the story, it was interesting because I myself use a Sony A1 camera
Thanks for your valuable insight Patrick - it surely is a beast.
I presently have an A7Riii (portraiture / landscape) and A7iii (real estate video) and have been toying with the idea of replacing the A7iii for an A7Siii. I don’t commercially shoot action however I do use my A7Riii to shoot my kids playing soccer. Consequently the release of the A1 has set my mind racing! If I purchase the A1 I can replace all existing cameras and be reasonably future proof for many years to come (it’s more than enough!). However, in your opinion, would my existing Sandisk 128GB /170MB/s be a problem or would I need to outlay additional funds for CFExpress cards?
your cards will work fine until you want to shoot your kids. At that point, you will need to get at least a Sony G card (295/300 mbs) or just go all the way to the Cfast cards made for a1. If you don't get the Cfast card, you will be waiting on your much slower cards to try to keep up with the camera's new processor and they will always lose. In effect, the a1 will lock up until it can pour 10 gallons of files into a small hose... here is the card you will need: amzn.to/3r75fyM
Greatly appreciate all the work you do and information. You mentioned about moving "back" the viewfinder look for glasses wearers. Could you please list where it is located in the Menu system. Thank you
Yes, absolutely, go to the yellow suitcase menu, then click right to "Viewfinder Magnifi." This is on page 45. Default will be "standard." Select, "zoom-out" instead and presto!!!
Out of all the reviews using Sony’s specs, yours is by far the best. When you get the camera and do a review, please show how to adjust EVF for us eyeglass users. Thanks for all your videos, they are great.
will do! thanks for the attaboy :)
I was just out trying to photograph eagles in -29C weather so maybe my brain is frozen lol - but may you run me through how the 200-600 on an Alpha 1 is better than an A9II with the 600? I'm thinking you mean by cost only? I have the 200-600 and while I like it, I find I never use it because I have the 400 2.8 on an A7RIV and I just crop like I have a 600 yet I still have that low light capability. I'm curious. Thanks Patrick. Can't wait to see your real world review after using the Alpha 1
cost only-- the 600GM would offer a superior look even on an aps-C body!!!
Great video Pat Question: Is the Video oversampling in full frame 4k not super 35 but full frame or is it doing some type of pixel binding?
Yes it does do some pixel binning how much and how it looks we have to see. To make makes sense to go to about the same pixels as in crop mode since it means the same amount of work/workflow.
Patrick can you clear up something I saw on another channel, they said the flash sync with elec shutter is only active with ON CAMERA FLASH, is that accurate?
yes, it is... the wording is difficult to understand. Saony says that 1/200th sync on electronic shutter is not available through the sync perminal (PC Outlet) on the side of the camera. This sync terminal is the same as the single pin in the middle of the hot-shoe. That means that the only flash units that can achieve this are going to have to have the MIS (multi interface shoe). So for sure Sony's own branded strobes will work. What I'm hoping is that other strobe manufacturers' triggers that use the MIS will also work. If we are able to use godox, elinchrom, profoto, and rimelite strobes in this way, it will be awesome. I will be able to let you know for sure once they send me a camera to evaluate and test with....
Upgraded from the A9 which Sony gave us a Firmware Update to an A9II...
In your opinion...
Do you think Sony will give us another Firmware Update for the A9II?
it only makes sense but remember, much of the new innovation in the a1 is hardware, so don't expect to get more FPS or 8k video out of the a9II. I think we will see menus change and improve and some other things but like the 1/400th sync is all hardware with the new shutter.
BTW you should also talk about the Xperia PRO that plugs in and acts as a monitor and a mobile 4K broadcasting station.
I totally forgot about that. it needs it's own video showing how useful the phone is for PJ's working on deadline (no other phone can move pictures faster in the world), and how pro video shooters can use the phone to both stream as well as use it as a true 4K monitor in the field!
Excellent review thanks
thanks Ian!
Regarding the 50 MP sensor, would be nice if Sony gave the option of small raw like Nikon's doing. So far, it looks like you can only shoot small Jpg.
...and we will keep asking SONY to do this. Many of the Artisans have asked for this for years...
Finally Patrick! I kept checking your YT Channel every hour to hear your thoughts on the A!! I still don't understand why you did not get one in advance so you could have a hands-on review ready at launch! 😮🤔 Shame on Sony!! 😡
When they are available to test with in the USA, SONY will get me one--no worries :)
Can someone explain why this new camera is $6,500 in the US, yet if we try and pre-order it here in Scotland from Wex Photography at £6,500 now is it 6,500 in Africa or Canada, what I'm saying is what about the current exchange rate.
no idea... I've often wondered about this myself???
I was fobbed off with exchange rate, but the price will fall £500 in the first six months if you can wait or just push your supplier !!
@@CamillaI thanks for that, but really frustrates me
I believe you meant to say that the A9/A92 adjusts focus 3x (not 4x) per frame at 20 frames per second if it does 60 focus adjustments every second.
thanks for the correction!!! My mistake, but it makes the a1 accomplishment all the sweeter!!!!
Sounds and looks amazing, will have to stay with my recently purchased a7r4 and a9ii and hope a few things filter down the firmware chain. Even with no camera in your hands I would rather listen to you than some of those fake click baiters on UA-cam ...
Yup of course I’m salivating watching this video may be on my Christmas list now maybe I’ll upgrade from my a92 I already have the 400 2.8 and with the increased resolution I’ll be killing it. Patrick, you have explained this very well thank you.
Ordered mine already. Are you still using that mic I have you. Video sounds great!
yes, you are very kind!!!! thanks much... pm-r
What make/model? It did sound quite nice but a little bass shy - maybe he was recording direct into camera?
Ordered mine too can't wait for my wildlife awesome !
Looks amazing. Hoping to get one at some point in 2021.
Patrick what is the easiest way to shoot F1? I live in Shanghai.
With a credential from a legitimate media outlet or for a team that has hired you to shoot for them. It's on my bucket list for sure... Probably in Montreal or Austin, TX.
Great Patrick I was looking for your artisan review ordered mine for my wildlife !
fantastic!!! Welcome to Alpha 1 :)
I’m presuming this still has voice memos, like the A9ii?
absolutely!
Patrick I shoot mostly wildlife ( and my 2 border collies LOL) I have a very specific technical question. Well respected sports shooters have eluded to a ground braking crop mode when using FF lenses that oversamples for a more detailed image and retains the full focus points. Is there some place to get more information about this? or could you do a video about the real difference, I suspect this is a hidden gem that needs to be explained in more detail, this camera is really ground braking in so many ways 😊
This was so much better than listening to Jared Polins subjective BS: Oh, no it shoots too many frames per second. Why would anyone EVER want 30 fps? Look through the EVF or you're not a real professional.
@@MomentousGaming made me LOL :)
but Fro Knows!!!!
There is as many ads on this video as there are megapixels in the new stacked sensor.
yes, when you give youtube a 34 min. video, they are going to squeeze some ads in there. I'm just trying to recoup a little from the time it takes me to research, write, record, edit, and upload the video. I have about two days invested in this one. Now I spend time responding to as many responses as I can. Does it make more sense now why there are ads? Hope so :). pm-r
@@PMRTV good content. Adds are fine for me. You have bills to pay like everyone. Thanks for the content
@@PMRTV Of course... love the channel. As an A9 shooter, I’m looking forward to shooting with the A1
Patrick, was this filmed with the A7Siii? Video quality looks awesome.
no, it was with the a6600 but it does eye af and all that-thanks, it's great and never misses a beat! also, using the 30mm f/1.4 Sigma lens--awesome chunk of glass as is the 16mm f/1.4
The A1 is cool. I would like on but t is not for me. However, the future looks interesting. Hopefully some of the new tech gets into the A7IV. Hope Canon and Nikon and all the others bring great products. Competition is good
agreed! You can expect the new menu system in the replacement of the a7III for sure and many other features those menus offer. SONY is good about doing FW updates and bringing features of their newer cameras backwards into their older models when the hardware in the older models makes that possible. 1/400th sync, for instance is going to stay unique to the a1...
For me it’s the anti-flicker using the electronic shutter. I occasionally shoot modern dance concerts and the banding from the LED stage lights is just awful. I can’t use the noisy mechanical shutter or reduce shutter speed where everything is a blur. This is heaven sent.
totally agree!!!!
Hello Patrick. Mine is already ordered :)
Likewise
High EyePoint EVF - yeah!
I know!!!!
I feel the α1-at 6500 USD like a flagship DSLR-is a bargain. It's the truest flagship from any maker since select sensors had first doubled flagships' resolution, which remained lower to attain high frame rates. If simply the α1's mechanical shutter had approached 15 fps-apparently not simple to engineer-then even 7500 USD would be a bargain.
Perhaps the only headscratcher is the α1's monitor: standard resolution and no tilt along portrait orientation. Yet I'm thrilled that the α1 lacks a "pro body" and perpetuates Sony's standard form factor, comfortable for _me_ since the α7R II and grown twice since then without bulking. Still, I think that the α1 merited a slightly deeper grip and a unique, enlarged battery. Oh, well.
Some of my other wishes-the on/off switch elsewhere, a recessed slider to lock all settings, the lens release on the other side, a few custom buttons in that freed space, and traditional bars for strap anchors-are likewise absent from the α1. Yet firmware updates could still add radio flash triggering, a prerecord buffer of variable duration and frame rate, and a precise aid to manual focus.
Are you aware of the Sony GP-X1EM Grip Extension? it will give you that little extra real estate for your pinky finger that you are looking for without the VG. Here is a link to it: amzn.to/36qvHeO
"a recessed slider to lock all settings [THIS ALREADY EXISTS BY PUSHING AND HOLDING THE FN BUTTON Here is a video from Mark Galer on this topic: ua-cam.com/video/7zfUb1EvJVM/v-deo.html], the lens release on the other side [THIS IS A SYSTEM DECISION THAT WAS MADE A LONG TIME AGO AT SONY AND WILL NOT CHANGE--I'VE THOUGHT ABOUT THIS TOO AND IT SIMPLY REQUIRES YOU TO REVERSE YOUR HANDS WHEN DOING LENS CHANGES- BUT IT DOES TAKE SOME GETTING USED TO, YOU'RE RIGHT], a few custom buttons in that freed space, and traditional bars for strap anchors-are likewise absent from the α1 [IT TOO SHARE YOUR INTEREST IN THE STRAP BARS--IT WOULD MAKE SETTING HANGING REMOTES ABOVE BASKETBALL AND HOCKEY MUCH SAFER TO HAVE A LARGER YOKE TO PUT SATEY CABLES THROUGH], a prerecord buffer of variable duration [ARTISANS HAVE BEEN ASKING FOR THIS FOR A COUPE YEARS--IT WOULD BE AMAZING!!!] and frame rate, and a precise aid to manual focus [I FEEL LIKE WE ALREADY HAVE THIS WHNE YOU CONSIDER FOCUS PEAKING WITH THREE LEVELS OF SENSITIVITY AND THE AUTO ZOOM FEATURE FOR PRECISE MF].
Please confirm/refute Matt Granger’s statement that A1’s m-shutter 1/400 x-sync does NOT work with off-camera flashes.
he is incorrect. Works with pocket wizards as well with no degradation of the 1/400th sync. Sorry Matt!
I preordered mine on Sunday.
I am so wanting to get this camera but $$$$$. Will have to look at what I might have to sale to get there. Maybe Sony will follow up with A9III at a much reduced cost but with the A7RIV and A1 still tech.
who knows what they will do next. if the a1 teaches us anything, it's to expect science fiction from SONY...
@@PMRTV Yes...always innovating. My workflow just doesn't use the video side so man....bummer for now.
Can you shoot in APSC mode and still get 21mp RAW?
yep
@@PMRTV thx
Dear Sony, request/ suggestion: make the shutter button force sensitive so we have the option of adjusting frame rate by changing finger pressure on the shutter. Thanks for the video, maybe you could pass the suggestion on Patrick.
interesting idea!
Thank you Patrick, much better than some of the nonsense from UA-camrs (who seem to have their nose out of joint because they had to find out the specs with the rest of us)..
lol, I was right there with all of you :)
Does this mean the rx10 mk5 is not COMING???
LOL, good one!!!!
Well, i think non pros don´t need 50MP and 30FPS. BTW, that 30FPS are not with any Glass, that´s to be mentioned as well! It´s often forgotten!!!
I sometimes shoot Tennis and the A9II does the job more than good...(for me)
totally agree with you :)
Can you use the USB-C port to tether to an SSD and offload pictures in real time instead of using $400 CF Express Type A cards? 1tb SSD is about $150 and the USB-C is 10gb/s which means it'll write to the SSD faster than it would the CF Express cards. I wouldn't mind having to tether my A1 on the field to a small SSD in my pocket to get around these ludicrous storage costs for only 160gb (thats only 68 seconds of shooting btw at 50mpx30fps)
I'll find out and get back to you on this question.
That I am aware, there are no protocols setup to re-route the data to a USB-C mounted storage. The other problem is powering the SSD. I'm sure the camera possibly could supply it, but how much it would impact overall battery life is likely significant. One thing you can do is USB TRANSFER to a mobile phone using Imaging Edge Mobile. Of course you could pick up an Xperia Pro to blaze through those files.
P.S. - Imaging Edge Mobile when paired with the Alpha 1 DOES have TOUCH AF.
@@PMRTV That's a shame, to get even close to 1tb of storage the user would need to spend over $1500. Hopefully they can do this with a firmware update.
About 8 months ago you released a video suggesting future improvements to the the a9II that I agreed with 100%. Unfortunately we got less than 20% of our wishes with the a1. My major disappointment is the fixation of Sony with the small poor ergonomic bodies, the same size SD style cards, etc. They could have moved some buttons as you suggested as well as getting rid of the manual controls in the top left side of the camera. Let's see what the Canon R1 will bring.
I'm not a very perceptive person, but somthing tells me you're gonna upgrade.
lol, good one, Tracy. You are correct!
To see is to believe lol. Nice video
true :)
can I have one ?
Exellent video sending support Edward Lacsina
Nice to get your views on this small mistake you switch evf speed with af speed its 120 times not 240 times a second so 4 times per 30 fps....
thanks for the correction Daniel. I appreciate your pointing that out. doing these videos in one take is tough sometimes, and I'm getting old.
@@PMRTV it was impressive on a one take...
@@PMRTV It was a fine overview and i suspect we will found out more details. I would normally not correct this but it was kind of a big one. Looking forward to your first real review of this monster. The speed might in fact be more then 8x more because some of its 'power' is hidden in the stacked sensor part and next to the 1.5x faster readout time we are not 100% sure what is hidden in there..... I feel comfy in claiming that the A1 probably has 10x to 12x more power then the A9 if we take that info account. What is amazing is if it still has the same battery life since that would mean the power/watt jump is massive and probably the shutter is now even more the part that you don't want to use since that is the battery drain.
no one has actually seen this camera ? Sony if you want you can always send me one..😉
really!
what about you can not afford £6500 for the camera let alone the 600mm f4,also native iso is lower than a9 32,000 v 51,000 so a stop worse its just physics.
Gone after 2 minutes. I’ll come back and listen to your thoughts after you actually use it. Thx
that's fair :)