Anyone else with a UA-cam channel that compares equipment, watch this man and see how it is done, what is important and what is not, most of these modern cameras are so good for IQ the arguments are silly, your a gem Steve
9:18 - heh, this is why I love your channel. "5 months isn't a long term trial" So many other 'Tubers just use it for a week and they'd consider two weeks to be eons.
Thanks :) Yeah, it drives me nuts when someone rents a camera for a couple days and then does a "review" - sorry, no way to really "know" the camera in that amount of time.
It's to bad that new cameras come too often. I hope the race between Canon, Nikon and Sony will continue with a much slower pace (after the R3 (or R1) and Z9) ... so that when doing a long term review the camera is not obsolete (or surpassed by a successor) ...
My Sony a1 wildlife photography setup guide is now available! All of my menu, button, and dial customizations for wildlife work as well as how and why I use them in the field. Check it out: bcgwebstore.com/product/the-ultimate-sony-a1-setup-guide-for-wildlife-photography/
I just bought the Sony A1 and your video helped me quite a bit. I can't wait for your settings, AFC video, and whatever Sony video you make. I have forwarded your video to a couple of friends who are waiting for their A1!!! Thank you...Gail
I shared your outstanding review in a Sony Forum and I guess people will enjoy it too! Really nice work which I am willing to support. In opposite to a lot of these usual clickbaiters here on YT.
Thanks Steve for comprehensive review of A1. This just came in at perfect time for me. I just ordered my A1. I would love to see a tutorial on camera settings for wildlife.
Unlike other photographers I simply run from when they start talking Sony, your terrific history of standout wildlife photography and gear reviews from that perspective mean I watched every second of this long, excellent, video. Thank you for your work! Someday I hope to join you in Costa Rica!
I've had my A1 for 5 months now & was still struggling with all the settings, this video helped me immensely & a set-up guide would take me to the next level of understanding. Thank You!!!!!
Steve - many thanks for yet another great, professional video. To respond to your inquiry in the video, I would love to see a video on your settings for the a1. Thanks, again!
Steve you make me proud to be part of the wildlife photography community. I have been watching for years, even though I didn't shoot Nikon. I also think more than other genres of photography, wildlife shooters than to be more about the image and could care less about the camera brand. When I meet other wildlife shooters in the woods they are always affable and although we love talking about gear we never judge each other for our personal choice ✌
You are best for years to me, when it comes to camera reviews or wild life/Sport photography teaching Steve. Can't wait to see you testing the Z9 as a Nikon user. I am so optimistic about the Z9 AF system for video and figured if they managed to implement an even improved AF system than the previous version, it would theoretically work for video too, instead of switching systems and sell most of my Nikon glass. Taking notes from a real wildlife photographer is the best there is in this modern youtube review era. Thanks Steve for the comprehensive review
Next stop. Z9. Can't wait to see if you put that in your arsenal and do a review and comparison to the A1. This A1 review was great. Would love to see a set-up guide video for sure.
Z9 is going to be awesome, I am not a Nikon user but all the struggles they are having has made me a big supporter. I hope the Z9 is as good or better than the A-1 just so they get a well deserved win🙏
@@longrider9551 Well deserved win for Nikon? I see it the other way round. Sony has pushed these two lazy giants CaNikon to move their ass, concerning mirrorless and new technology. And Nikon is very late to the party. So right now I do believe the merrits belong clearly to Sony. But anyway as Steve said several times, at the end of the day it doesn't matter which system you are using. As long as you improve your skills, every system will do the job.
I’m not a Sony shooter but I can still appreciate this. Your opinions carry more weight w me than any other birding UA-camr. I hope Nikon knocks all of our socks off!
Will a Z9 with integrated grip and flip screen with the rumored specs make you go back to shooting Nikon a majority of the time? I think if Nikon can both deliver on the majority of rumored specs and produce lighter, sharper 400mm f/2.8 S and 600mm f/4 S lenses with a built in a 1.4x TC on them, those combos will be hard to beat. Especially if Nikon can sell the Z9 with integrated grip for $5999. With CFexpress type B cards being faster, you should get a much larger/longer buffer time and larger sized cards for much less money, making the overall cost of the Z9 much less than the A1 with grip and cards. I think there are some real advantages to the Z9 over the A1, if the rumors are correct and I think they are based on the Nikon preview videos so far. The Z9 definitely does 20fps if not more, and I'm sure that is at full resolution and Lossless/Uncompressed. Should be exiting to see what you do when the Z9 is released. I'd imagine the Sony A1 with lighter 600mm f/4 will still have a couple advantages over the Nikon, until Nikon releases their Z-mount super-tele lenses.
@@patricksmith2553 Honestly, no idea. I no longer have a "primary" system instead I use whatever I'm evaluating or reviewing at the time. I'm heading to Africa again soon and if I have a Z9 or R3 I'd take that. Just depends on what needs testing. I do agree about those lenses, however. Even if the Z9 is "only" at a9ii level, lightweight super-teles with built-in TCs would have a far greater impact on my keeper rate than any minor differences in performance between the bodies. I can't tell you the number of shots I've missed over the years messing with TCs - or the number of shots that would have been better if I would have had time to attach the TC. Those lenses may be the biggest game-changers out of all the new gear.
@@backcountrygallery I get that Steve, you're definitely in a small minority of people who rely on reviewing and knowing other brands. After seeing the rumors and the teasers though, it got me thinking. A Sony A1 with grip, extra battery and two CFexpress Type A cards is over $8,000 with sales tax in many states. That alone makes the rumored Z9 price of $5999 seem pretty great! Plus the Z9 with built in grip should have slightly better ergonomics, better build and weather sealing. As well as long battery life with the included larger EN-EL18D. With the Z9 accepting CFexpress type B cards and those being faster and larger in memory size for way less money, that too makes the price difference even larger. Plus I'm sure the Z9 will in turn have a much bigger buffer and allow full resolution, Lossless or even Uncompressed files at full speed. We already know for sure the Z9 does 20fps based on the teaser videos, so if it can do that with 14-16bit Uncompressed for say 10 seconds of buffer...that is another big deal. I have a feeling Sony is going to have to lower the price of the A1 soon or at least include the grip for free.
@@patricksmith2553 I agree - based on the rumors, the Z9 looks very potent. I could see Sony lowering the a1 price though. Nikon and Canon usually aren't too quick to lower their flagships, but I think Sony is likely more flexible. Between the R3 and the Z9, they may not have a choice. Nikon and and Canon are really making headway! I think the announcement is this week, so it should be interesting. I just hope they don't announce now and ship in 2022!
I rarely see non-Nikon reviews but I saw this in full, as your credibility in previous vids show your honesty. Although I'm not going to get this camera (not a pro, thus I'm keeping my Nikons as the cost to convert is too much), it'll still be in the back of my mind that there are better wilderness non-Nikon cameras out there. Wellllll, until the Z9 comes :). THanks again for this excellent vid!
Expert review for sure! Thank you very much for sharing this "field-notes" type of review. Suggestion: When you are preparing your a1 settings video, a downloadable pdf list of your settings would be very helpful while watching your video. Screen display captures of the settings or even a simple text list, either would be welcome.
The stunning photos speaks for itself! Amazing review, even though I’m a R5 shooter, I’ve an eye on A1. Would you mind doing a setup guide for a1, would really appreciate?
Really waiting to hear how you get on with a Z9 although I know it will be a while yet! From the Ricci Talks and Matt Granger reviews I think you will love it.
Would love to see a setup guide. I have followed several guides for my A1 and have ended up with something that suits me - so far. Little tricks can make a huge difference so would be happy to see Steve's.
Steve, that was absolutely fantastic. I bought the A1 two weeks ago and was able to shoot Raptors the last few days. Lots of keepers however, I also see lots of mistakes that I made and should’ve spent more time preparing before my workshop.
Steve, yes yes yes, please please please….. a set up video for the Sony A1. Your videos have walked me through the set up on my D500 and D850. I made the plunge to the Sony A1, but I am struggling with customizing the buttons. Thanks much !!!!!
Brilliant Steve thanks heaps mate. YES to a setup video Please, I am struggling with the new menu system. Sold my R4 due to issues with my 200-600G and that was an expensive lesson learned.
I have dabbled with listening to your videos but last night I sat down with my alpha 1 and really really listened to your advice and made some changes- I bought Alpha 1 instruction book which I haven’t opened yet- but WOW- today these changes were a game changer while I was shooting Roseate Spoonbills in Fellsmere FL- Thank you Steve!!!!
As I went all - in in the Z system… you make me crying 😭😭😭…. I feel like I lost 2 years in the Nikon system… and begin to think that the firmware we wish will not deliver the level of Sony… instead of going with the Z9…. Did I waiste my money… I was a real believer… but, I am getting cold! Thanks. This is by far, the most credible review on line for now.
Some stunning images here. Well done. This camera's price is well beyond what i'm willing to part with, as is the 600mm lens that those seriously committed to the pursuit will spring for. But, it is still fun to see what you can get with such gear. For my real life, I'm hoping Nikon will share some firmware improvements with we Z6ii and Z7ii owners, when they announce their Z9 later this week.
@@TonyTarantula why should I’ve done that? I was wrong and it was fair to admit that. Better so for all those people who is buying this very good camera 😊
you sir are in my opinion the best wildlife photographer out there.. absolutely stunning.. being a d500 user, I started following you 3 years back..absolutely amazing to watch these videos
You really nailed it with the rolling shutter part! "If you are sitting high frame rates, you're probably shooting action and rolling shutter can become an issue". That's the first statement I heard in many many videos putting the A1 and Z9 above the R5, because it's often compared.
The A1 is a super camera in many ways but I've sold mine and gone back to nikon. No the z6ii is no we're near as good as the A1 but to me I prefer the feel of the nikon.
This is one of the GREATEST photography videos I have EVER seen. My jaw DROPPED as Steve showed us CLASSIC after classic. I don't usually type in capitals, but I felt very strongly after watching this incredible review and compilation. I really appreciate the clear demonstration and sharing.
Great video Steve. I would love to see you do a video on your settings. I would also love to hear you speak about high ISO images. I see some of your images range pretty high on the ISO scale. My experience is that when I shoot high iso I have excessive noise issues.
on the a7iv both back dials are customizable, i use shutter left, aperture right and exposure front. pressing c3 allows me to quickly set iso on any dial.
Interesting video and commentary. The A1 is an amazing camera and in my experience, like yours, it does enable the user to capture more keeper images. As several others have commented, I would be like for you to share your A1 setup in a tutorial or a blog post.
Just purchased your Secrets to Stunning Birds in Flight book Steve to show my appreciation, but boy it's packed with 500+ pages of info. It's funny how we spend thousands of dollars on cameras and lenses and umm and errr over $25 for gain lots of knowledge to get the most out of it! I recommend Steve's book
I want to emphasize something you mentioned - I just came from a wildlife safari in northern Serengeti using the A1. Coming back home I was supersized how many unfocused images I had of big animals!!! As a bird lover who shoot small birds I wrongly assumed in the back of my mind I guess that shooting an elephants zebras and giraffes is a bit like shooting duck in a row. No really. I mistakenly used AF tracking a lot of the time. The camera surprised me how little if found the big animals eyes. I use prime lens of the GM kind by the way. My tip is this - for big animals that move relatively slow use a small AF point non tracking and place the AF spot on the animal head using the joy stick or back screen touch screen. Many animals have elongated eye lashes and black patches on their faces. The camera was failing to recognize the head or the eye and locking many times on their hides. One more thing if you bought an expensive lens with fast F stop don't be tempted to shoot wide open. Again depth of field get smaller. The more expensive(and longer) the lens is the smaller the depth of field because you are effectively closer to subject. With longer lens comes great responsibly haha!
What a fantastic review backed up with outstanding images. More so, coming after 60000 images taken on the wild. Steve - you are the best and thanks much for putting this together. Every word in this is like pearl of wisdom. I recently purchased my A1 and will look forward to getting the set up guide from, especially someone who is an authority in Wildlife photography. Thanks again
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Just amazing work given any brand I find your reviews really credible for real and non click bait kinda way. Thanks a lot!
As usual, top quality. Probably the best wildlife review of the A1 that exists and no surprise, it's coming from Steve Perry. Yes, absolutely YES I'd vote for a Steve Perry settings review. I know that's a lot of time, but coming from you it would be THE settings that I would use on my A1 - or at least make my baseline. Although I do think I am moving away from BBF now that I have the A1. I want that button for some other custom settings. Your easy to understand presentation and the highest quality of expert information, sets you apart from virtually all other camera reviewers. Just a cut above. The very fact that you are shooting with all 3 systems is incredulous! Will do everything I can to join your next workshop to Africa or Florida.
@@backcountrygallery The honesty that you portray and your genuine desire to help other photographers....is an incredible positive trait. Few have this.
Excellent and informative video (as usual) with one small criticism: please leave the photos blended in a touch longer; I seldom had time to admire the photo, read the caption, and register the technical data before it disappeared. Otherwise, I really appreciate the unbiased, non-fanboy, hype free conclusions and I suspect I am not alone. Keep up the good work.
That's a hard balance, because it'd make the videos longer. What I do when I want to catch those details is keep my finger on the right keyboard key, and just pause it to read the tech data.
Does not matter brand of the camera your tips and trick working very well! i switch to sony ,because of af eye,thatv the future,happy to see you with deferent cameras!
excellent video, thanks a lot - and stunning images !!!! All are great photos, but additionally, some of the black & white conversions are just amazing work, too
As always Steve, so much knowledge and experience,i think the change to EyEAF is making a lot of people that are new to photography rely on it getting the shot, then complaining why it didnt work. I think the biggest thing for people is AF point for subject use, in DSLR you get what you can, now people rely on the auto function of the camera, Glad to see you stating dont rely on it.
Amazing review Steve! I totally agree with you. A1 is one hell of a beast! Absolutely love all your videos, subscribed and bought your book!! Please please make a video guide about setting up the A1!
Such a great review Steve, informative, backed by incredibly high quality imagery and diving into all the important practical aspects. Thank you for putting in the effort and time to produce this, it's much appreciated. I especially like how you tested dynamic range with higher ISO values, everybody tests dynamic range at base ISO which is of almost no use to wildlife photographers, I regularly shoot above 3200, especially when I'm shooting small fast moving subjects under a dense canopy with terrible light so this information is highly appreciated. Awesome work!
You’ve never failed to impress me with your delivery. We all know what you are capable of producing even if it’s with an old beat up Instamatic😊 I’ve taken my hat off to Sony for their remarkable little gem, the A1, but I’m still a Nikon shooter and will wait for your take on their up coming flag-ship model…..not that I can afford that either😔
I shoot Sony but pulling for Nikon and hoping there Z9 is just as good or better than A-1, ( my Nikon friend wont have any excuses when I get a better shot lol)
Mind blowing review as usual, seasoned with absolutely incredible pictures. Thanks for your work Steve, as usual it’s not in ly budget but it’s a pleasure to see your pictures and dream about this incredible piece of gear!
hoo boy. Saving up for my Last New Camera, hoping against hope that the Z9 will live up to the hype. Not sure I can justify, even to my greedy self, blowing off my investment in Nikon glass. But this Sony has me pretty antsy. Thanks as always for your ethical and informative reviews.
Great video Steve. You really have become the best at this kind of video! I'm not going to buy the A1, unless you test the Z9 and find it inferior. And even then, the R5 is so much better value . But I believe the Z9 will show its worth, so here is to wait and see!
A great video Steve, thanks. An a1 setup guide would be incredibly helpful/interesting.....With regards the Nikon Z9 which is mentioned quite a bit here in comments......the biggest issue i see for wildlife photographers is glass......I used to shoot Nikon with the D850, but are there any big primes or even zooms that fit the Z series without adapters.....in that regard they seem a little behind the curve compared to both Sony and Canon.
Steve, is there any other perspective other than that of a wildlife photographer! Any way another awesome video, can't wait for your Z9 review. Also, definitely would love you to do an A1 set-up guide. Steve note than Canon does a bit of cheat with the R5, it has baked in RAW NR which helps its DR and noise. It doesn't seem to affect detail, so it doesn't really matter I guess, but I'd prefer we saw what the actual sensor was capable of.
Quite simply the best video I've seen on the A1. I have an A9II and really don't want 50mp as the file sizes are just too big. One thing not mentioned in this video is how the 1 vs 9's AF performance compares as I think there are a lot of 9/9II shooters sitting on the fence with this crucial performance aspect.
Great information. I am waiting for the Nikon Z9 (due to already having Nikon lenses) and I hope you do a comparison between it and the A1 so I can decide. Until then I will continue learning my D500.
D500 is great, better than any Z series for wildlife. Hopefully all the hype on Z9 AF is true and it trickles down to cheaper models, then maybe its time to sell the D500. Until then, D500 is the way to go.
@@rjpg Trying to decide between a 500mm prime with fresnel to go with my Sigma 150-600 zoom or put that money towards a quiet faster auto-focusing full frame mirrorless (hence my waiting for info on the Z9, Z8 or a newer better Z6 iii or Z7iii or Sony A1 to add to not replace my D500 that I can learn and grow into).
My back button is my primary AF button. But I have a Front Button set for Rear focus. Thus, If the AF doesn't snap using Backbutton, I press the front button, and get instantly fast and accurate AF from manual focus. Also, there is a A.I. Animal detect AF that is amazing. Keepup the great work and videos. I find them very helpful.
I guess I'm not sure what you mean by "rear focus". I have my lens focus buttons set for manual override (hold option) so I can quickly focus manually if I need to then release to get back to AF.
Wow, outstanding photos and honest review of the A1. Since you did a review might as well do a set up guide! I am sure we would all benefit greatly from it. Looking forward to it!
Great review .. will await Z9 review.. something is lacking in the colors that you clicked with Sony .. it doesn’t look organic.. possibly I am used to Nikon colors that these don’t look quite right ..
Great job, Steve. I enjoyed every minute of your video. I also love how fast you talk, getting the point made quickly. You have a new subscriber. I look forward to your future videos.
Excellent balanced review Steve and as an A1 shooter of wildlife I agree with everything you said . I would appreciate a video on your set up and customisation options as I have not yet fully settled on mine and always like to hear others opinions .
Outstanding review! Thanks for taking all the time to make one. Your videos are really nicely made, Your knowledge and your ability to explain things is amazing!!
Excellent review. There's no way I can afford the A1 but, maybe, the R5 and 100-500mm lens. Thanks for such a well presented comparison between the cameras.
Anyone else with a UA-cam channel that compares equipment, watch this man and see how it is done, what is important and what is not, most of these modern cameras are so good for IQ the arguments are silly, your a gem Steve
9:18 - heh, this is why I love your channel. "5 months isn't a long term trial"
So many other 'Tubers just use it for a week and they'd consider two weeks to be eons.
Thanks :) Yeah, it drives me nuts when someone rents a camera for a couple days and then does a "review" - sorry, no way to really "know" the camera in that amount of time.
It's to bad that new cameras come too often. I hope the race between Canon, Nikon and Sony will continue with a much slower pace (after the R3 (or R1) and Z9) ... so that when doing a long term review the camera is not obsolete (or surpassed by a successor) ...
@@SanoyNimbus You and me both...
My Sony a1 wildlife photography setup guide is now available! All of my menu, button, and dial customizations for wildlife work as well as how and why I use them in the field. Check it out:
bcgwebstore.com/product/the-ultimate-sony-a1-setup-guide-for-wildlife-photography/
Did you record with 2 mics?
I just bought the Sony A1 and your video helped me quite a bit. I can't wait for your settings, AFC video, and whatever Sony video you make. I have forwarded your video to a couple of friends who are waiting for their A1!!! Thank you...Gail
shared with my buddies
@@spangari Really appreciate it :) Thank you!!
I shared your outstanding review in a Sony Forum and I guess people will enjoy it too! Really nice work which I am willing to support. In opposite to a lot of these usual clickbaiters here on YT.
Thanks Steve for comprehensive review of A1. This just came in at perfect time for me. I just ordered my A1. I would love to see a tutorial on camera settings for wildlife.
Unlike other photographers I simply run from when they start talking Sony, your terrific history of standout wildlife photography and gear reviews from that perspective mean I watched every second of this long, excellent, video.
Thank you for your work! Someday I hope to join you in Costa Rica!
I've had my A1 for 5 months now & was still struggling with all the settings, this video helped me immensely & a set-up guide would take me to the next level of understanding. Thank You!!!!!
Steve - many thanks for yet another great, professional video. To respond to your inquiry in the video, I would love to see a video on your settings for the a1. Thanks, again!
Steve you make me proud to be part of the wildlife photography community. I have been watching for years, even though I didn't shoot Nikon. I also think more than other genres of photography, wildlife shooters than to be more about the image and could care less about the camera brand. When I meet other wildlife shooters in the woods they are always affable and although we love talking about gear we never judge each other for our personal choice ✌
That's largely been my experience as well. Wildlife shooters are a good group :)
so true!
You are best for years to me, when it comes to camera reviews or wild life/Sport photography teaching Steve. Can't wait to see you testing the Z9 as a Nikon user. I am so optimistic about the Z9 AF system for video and figured if they managed to implement an even improved AF system than the previous version, it would theoretically work for video too, instead of switching systems and sell most of my Nikon glass. Taking notes from a real wildlife photographer is the best there is in this modern youtube review era. Thanks Steve for the comprehensive review
same here eagerly waiting for the z9 review.
Definitely interested in an A1 Setup guide, please... :)
Next stop. Z9. Can't wait to see if you put that in your arsenal and do a review and comparison to the A1. This A1 review was great. Would love to see a set-up guide video for sure.
Z9 is going to be awesome, I am not a Nikon user but all the struggles they are having has made me a big supporter. I hope the Z9 is as good or better than the A-1 just so they get a well deserved win🙏
@@longrider9551 Well deserved win for Nikon? I see it the other way round. Sony has pushed these two lazy giants CaNikon to move their ass, concerning mirrorless and new technology. And Nikon is very late to the party. So right now I do believe the merrits belong clearly to Sony.
But anyway as Steve said several times, at the end of the day it doesn't matter which system you are using. As long as you improve your skills, every system will do the job.
I’m not a Sony shooter but I can still appreciate this. Your opinions carry more weight w me than any other birding UA-camr. I hope Nikon knocks all of our socks off!
Top review. The example photos are stunning and really adds to the credibility of such a review
Thank you so much!
Will a Z9 with integrated grip and flip screen with the rumored specs make you go back to shooting Nikon a majority of the time? I think if Nikon can both deliver on the majority of rumored specs and produce lighter, sharper 400mm f/2.8 S and 600mm f/4 S lenses with a built in a 1.4x TC on them, those combos will be hard to beat. Especially if Nikon can sell the Z9 with integrated grip for $5999. With CFexpress type B cards being faster, you should get a much larger/longer buffer time and larger sized cards for much less money, making the overall cost of the Z9 much less than the A1 with grip and cards. I think there are some real advantages to the Z9 over the A1, if the rumors are correct and I think they are based on the Nikon preview videos so far. The Z9 definitely does 20fps if not more, and I'm sure that is at full resolution and Lossless/Uncompressed. Should be exiting to see what you do when the Z9 is released. I'd imagine the Sony A1 with lighter 600mm f/4 will still have a couple advantages over the Nikon, until Nikon releases their Z-mount super-tele lenses.
@@patricksmith2553 Honestly, no idea. I no longer have a "primary" system instead I use whatever I'm evaluating or reviewing at the time. I'm heading to Africa again soon and if I have a Z9 or R3 I'd take that. Just depends on what needs testing. I do agree about those lenses, however. Even if the Z9 is "only" at a9ii level, lightweight super-teles with built-in TCs would have a far greater impact on my keeper rate than any minor differences in performance between the bodies. I can't tell you the number of shots I've missed over the years messing with TCs - or the number of shots that would have been better if I would have had time to attach the TC. Those lenses may be the biggest game-changers out of all the new gear.
@@backcountrygallery I get that Steve, you're definitely in a small minority of people who rely on reviewing and knowing other brands. After seeing the rumors and the teasers though, it got me thinking. A Sony A1 with grip, extra battery and two CFexpress Type A cards is over $8,000 with sales tax in many states. That alone makes the rumored Z9 price of $5999 seem pretty great! Plus the Z9 with built in grip should have slightly better ergonomics, better build and weather sealing. As well as long battery life with the included larger EN-EL18D. With the Z9 accepting CFexpress type B cards and those being faster and larger in memory size for way less money, that too makes the price difference even larger. Plus I'm sure the Z9 will in turn have a much bigger buffer and allow full resolution, Lossless or even Uncompressed files at full speed. We already know for sure the Z9 does 20fps based on the teaser videos, so if it can do that with 14-16bit Uncompressed for say 10 seconds of buffer...that is another big deal. I have a feeling Sony is going to have to lower the price of the A1 soon or at least include the grip for free.
@@patricksmith2553 I agree - based on the rumors, the Z9 looks very potent. I could see Sony lowering the a1 price though. Nikon and Canon usually aren't too quick to lower their flagships, but I think Sony is likely more flexible. Between the R3 and the Z9, they may not have a choice. Nikon and and Canon are really making headway! I think the announcement is this week, so it should be interesting. I just hope they don't announce now and ship in 2022!
I rarely see non-Nikon reviews but I saw this in full, as your credibility in previous vids show your honesty. Although I'm not going to get this camera (not a pro, thus I'm keeping my Nikons as the cost to convert is too much), it'll still be in the back of my mind that there are better wilderness non-Nikon cameras out there. Wellllll, until the Z9 comes :). THanks again for this excellent vid!
Thanks - I'm increasingly optimistic about that Z9.
@@backcountrygallery OMFG! I got my first response from DA MAN!!!!! Its like getting your autograph!!!!!
Steve, as always THANK YOU. Yes I would definitely be interested in a Steve P. how I set up and use all of the functions and customization of the A1.
The best review out there by far. And the photos were an absolute pleasure to look at, they made watching the review much more enjoyable
Expert review for sure! Thank you very much for sharing this "field-notes" type of review. Suggestion: When you are preparing your a1 settings video, a downloadable pdf list of your settings would be very helpful while watching your video. Screen display captures of the settings or even a simple text list, either would be welcome.
The stunning photos speaks for itself! Amazing review, even though I’m a R5 shooter, I’ve an eye on A1. Would you mind doing a setup guide for a1, would really appreciate?
Great video, Steve! As always, a pleasure to listen to you. I can't wait your test of Nikon Z9! I'm sure that you too :D
Thanks Steve!! YES to an A1 set up video or ebook!! Wonderful video and awesome photography!!
Really waiting to hear how you get on with a Z9 although I know it will be a while yet! From the Ricci Talks and Matt Granger reviews I think you will love it.
OK. You got me when you showed 60k+ pictures taken with this camera/lens. Respect.
Would love to see a setup guide. I have followed several guides for my A1 and have ended up with something that suits me - so far. Little tricks can make a huge difference so would be happy to see Steve's.
Steve, that was absolutely fantastic. I bought the A1 two weeks ago and was able to shoot Raptors the last few days. Lots of keepers however, I also see lots of mistakes that I made and should’ve spent more time preparing before my workshop.
outstanding coverage without bias.....been toying between R5, R3 and A1 and this is leading me towards the A1
I cant wait for your Nikon Z9 review Steve... I used to visit your channel whenever you have Nikon camera review. goodluck...
I’d love to see a a1 set up guide. Your workflow is invaluable and as I shoot a new a1 your camera setup would be awesome
Hello Steve, I wish you put all amazing photos of this video again at the end the video.
Waiting for your review of Big Z9.
Steve, yes yes yes, please please please….. a set up video for the Sony A1. Your videos have walked me through the set up on my D500 and D850. I made the plunge to the Sony A1, but I am struggling with customizing the buttons. Thanks much !!!!!
An A1 setup guide would be golden! Great review
Awesome review, I loved the AF review and Iso comparisons, thank you for this honest review and content.
Brilliant Steve thanks heaps mate. YES to a setup video Please, I am struggling with the new menu system. Sold my R4 due to issues with my 200-600G and that was an expensive lesson learned.
I have dabbled with listening to your videos but last night I sat down with my alpha 1 and really really listened to your advice and made some changes- I bought Alpha 1 instruction book which I haven’t opened yet- but WOW- today these changes were a game changer while I was shooting Roseate Spoonbills in Fellsmere FL- Thank you Steve!!!!
As I went all - in in the Z system… you make me crying 😭😭😭…. I feel like I lost 2 years in the Nikon system… and begin to think that the firmware we wish will not deliver the level of Sony… instead of going with the Z9…. Did I waiste my money… I was a real believer… but, I am getting cold! Thanks. This is by far, the most credible review on line for now.
I think Nikon will come up with some winners. They are slow, but when they deliver, it's usually really good.
@@backcountrygallery thanks for your « motivation » … i really wish your are right… soon! 😜
I shoot Sony but that Z9 looks like a killer camera, also priced right, your prayers may be answered
definitely do the settings episode
Great review, Steve. Would love to see a set-up guide!
Agreed, Steve, wonderful. Please, consider a set-up guide.
Some stunning images here. Well done. This camera's price is well beyond what i'm willing to part with, as is the 600mm lens that those seriously committed to the pursuit will spring for. But, it is still fun to see what you can get with such gear. For my real life, I'm hoping Nikon will share some firmware improvements with we Z6ii and Z7ii owners, when they announce their Z9 later this week.
And Nikon Z9 will be even more expensive than this Sony A1.
@@SuomiFinland78 Please go back to your comment :))))
@@dinkobilic9078 I was wrong 👌😁
@@SuomiFinland78 you're a good one. Guessing incorrectly is no big deal. I love the way you revised your post without deleting the original.
@@TonyTarantula why should I’ve done that? I was wrong and it was fair to admit that. Better so for all those people who is buying this very good camera 😊
A very comprehensive review Steve. I’m another one in favour of hearing more about your settings.
you sir are in my opinion the best wildlife photographer out there.. absolutely stunning.. being a d500 user, I started following you 3 years back..absolutely amazing to watch these videos
You really nailed it with the rolling shutter part! "If you are sitting high frame rates, you're probably shooting action and rolling shutter can become an issue". That's the first statement I heard in many many videos putting the A1 and Z9 above the R5, because it's often compared.
The A1 is a super camera in many ways but I've sold mine and gone back to nikon. No the z6ii is no we're near as good as the A1 but to me I prefer the feel of the nikon.
Yes! please make a setup guide video for this camera.
This is one of the GREATEST photography videos I have EVER seen. My jaw DROPPED as Steve showed us CLASSIC after classic.
I don't usually type in capitals, but I felt very strongly after watching this incredible review and compilation. I really appreciate the clear demonstration and sharing.
Have the A1 and would like to see a setup video. Nice video by the way.
I would love to see a A1👌 setup guide from your prospective.
Please do the setup guide on the A1 for wildlife photography. Thank you so much for all your videos..
Great video Steve. I would love to see you do a video on your settings. I would also love to hear you speak about high ISO images. I see some of your images range pretty high on the ISO scale. My experience is that when I shoot high iso I have excessive noise issues.
on the a7iv both back dials are customizable, i use shutter left, aperture right and exposure front.
pressing c3 allows me to quickly set iso on any dial.
Interesting video and commentary. The A1 is an amazing camera and in my experience, like yours, it does enable the user to capture more keeper images. As several others have commented, I would be like for you to share your A1 setup in a tutorial or a blog post.
Just purchased your Secrets to Stunning Birds in Flight book Steve to show my appreciation, but boy it's packed with 500+ pages of info. It's funny how we spend thousands of dollars on cameras and lenses and umm and errr over $25 for gain lots of knowledge to get the most out of it! I recommend Steve's book
I want to emphasize something you mentioned - I just came from a wildlife safari in northern Serengeti using the A1. Coming back home I was supersized how many unfocused images I had of big animals!!! As a bird lover who shoot small birds I wrongly assumed in the back of my mind I guess that shooting an elephants zebras and giraffes is a bit like shooting duck in a row. No really. I mistakenly used AF tracking a lot of the time. The camera surprised me how little if found the big animals eyes. I use prime lens of the GM kind by the way. My tip is this - for big animals that move relatively slow use a small AF point non tracking and place the AF spot on the animal head using the joy stick or back screen touch screen. Many animals have elongated eye lashes and black patches on their faces. The camera was failing to recognize the head or the eye and locking many times on their hides. One more thing if you bought an expensive lens with fast F stop don't be tempted to shoot wide open. Again depth of field get smaller. The more expensive(and longer) the lens is the smaller the depth of field because you are effectively closer to subject. With longer lens comes great responsibly haha!
The best camera I have ever owned for my wildlife photography !😀
Nice Steve but I got a feeling the Z9 will beat this; )
Exactly! 😀
Fine by me - I have a ton of Nikon gear! I hope it does - I'm really looking forward to seeing it.
ABSOLUTELY
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What a fantastic review backed up with outstanding images. More so, coming after 60000 images taken on the wild. Steve - you are the best and thanks much for putting this together. Every word in this is like pearl of wisdom. I recently purchased my A1 and will look forward to getting the set up guide from, especially someone who is an authority in Wildlife photography. Thanks again
Just amazing work given any brand I find your reviews really credible for real and non click bait kinda way. Thanks a lot!
Great review!
&
Yes, PLEASE make an A1 setting video. :)
As usual, top quality. Probably the best wildlife review of the A1 that exists and no surprise, it's coming from Steve Perry. Yes, absolutely YES I'd vote for a Steve Perry settings review. I know that's a lot of time, but coming from you it would be THE settings that I would use on my A1 - or at least make my baseline. Although I do think I am moving away from BBF now that I have the A1. I want that button for some other custom settings. Your easy to understand presentation and the highest quality of expert information, sets you apart from virtually all other camera reviewers. Just a cut above. The very fact that you are shooting with all 3 systems is incredulous! Will do everything I can to join your next workshop to Africa or Florida.
Thank you so much!
@@backcountrygallery The honesty that you portray and your genuine desire to help other photographers....is an incredible positive trait. Few have this.
Excellent and informative video (as usual) with one small criticism: please leave the photos blended in a touch longer; I seldom had time to admire the photo, read the caption, and register the technical data before it disappeared. Otherwise, I really appreciate the unbiased, non-fanboy, hype free conclusions and I suspect I am not alone. Keep up the good work.
That's a hard balance, because it'd make the videos longer. What I do when I want to catch those details is keep my finger on the right keyboard key, and just pause it to read the tech data.
Man, those pictures are gorgeous. Congratulations.
Does not matter brand of the camera your tips and trick working very well! i switch to sony ,because of af eye,thatv the future,happy to see you with deferent cameras!
Thank you for this Great video. I will love to see a set up guide from you🙏
excellent video, thanks a lot - and stunning images !!!! All are great photos, but additionally, some of the black & white conversions are just amazing work, too
As always Steve, so much knowledge and experience,i think the change to EyEAF is making a lot of people that are new to photography rely on it getting the shot, then complaining why it didnt work. I think the biggest thing for people is AF point for subject use, in DSLR you get what you can, now people rely on the auto function of the camera, Glad to see you stating dont rely on it.
It's no longer a two-horse race now that Nikon launched the Z9. Thanks for your content.
Hired one last month for shooting Scottish Mountain Hares. Absolutely unbelievable camera.
Amazing review Steve! I totally agree with you. A1 is one hell of a beast! Absolutely love all your videos, subscribed and bought your book!! Please please make a video guide about setting up the A1!
Such a great review Steve, informative, backed by incredibly high quality imagery and diving into all the important practical aspects. Thank you for putting in the effort and time to produce this, it's much appreciated. I especially like how you tested dynamic range with higher ISO values, everybody tests dynamic range at base ISO which is of almost no use to wildlife photographers, I regularly shoot above 3200, especially when I'm shooting small fast moving subjects under a dense canopy with terrible light so this information is highly appreciated. Awesome work!
Steve, thanks for sharing this review. I’ve also been using the A1 for a while now. I would love to see your setup guide.
Thanks for the nice video Steve. My A1 is coming this week!!
Looking forward to your Z9 review.
You’ve never failed to impress me with your delivery. We all know what you are capable of producing even if it’s with an old beat up Instamatic😊
I’ve taken my hat off to Sony for their remarkable little gem, the A1, but I’m still a Nikon shooter and will wait for your take on their up coming flag-ship model…..not that I can afford that either😔
I shoot Sony but pulling for Nikon and hoping there Z9 is just as good or better than A-1, ( my Nikon friend wont have any excuses when I get a better shot lol)
A1 Setup guide - yes please.
Great video. I am planning on upgrading from my A7R3 to the A1. Would love to see a Setup Guide from you.
Mind blowing review as usual, seasoned with absolutely incredible pictures. Thanks for your work Steve, as usual it’s not in ly budget but it’s a pleasure to see your pictures and dream about this incredible piece of gear!
hoo boy. Saving up for my Last New Camera, hoping against hope that the Z9 will live up to the hype. Not sure I can justify, even to my greedy self, blowing off my investment in Nikon glass. But this Sony has me pretty antsy. Thanks as always for your ethical and informative reviews.
I have had my A1 and would love to have a video with your settings, just to make sure I'm maximizing the custom buttons.
A fantastic review, Steve. Very detailed and comprehensive. And the pictures are superb! Thank you for taking the time to do this review.
Great video Steve. You really have become the best at this kind of video! I'm not going to buy the A1, unless you test the Z9 and find it inferior. And even then, the R5 is so much better value . But I believe the Z9 will show its worth, so here is to wait and see!
A great video Steve, thanks. An a1 setup guide would be incredibly helpful/interesting.....With regards the Nikon Z9 which is mentioned quite a bit here in comments......the biggest issue i see for wildlife photographers is glass......I used to shoot Nikon with the D850, but are there any big primes or even zooms that fit the Z series without adapters.....in that regard they seem a little behind the curve compared to both Sony and Canon.
Steve, is there any other perspective other than that of a wildlife photographer! Any way another awesome video, can't wait for your Z9 review. Also, definitely would love you to do an A1 set-up guide.
Steve note than Canon does a bit of cheat with the R5, it has baked in RAW NR which helps its DR and noise. It doesn't seem to affect detail, so it doesn't really matter I guess, but I'd prefer we saw what the actual sensor was capable of.
Oh, I didn't know that about the R5 - that might explain why it seemed to always have that very slight edge.
Quite simply the best video I've seen on the A1. I have an A9II and really don't want 50mp as the file sizes are just too big. One thing not mentioned in this video is how the 1 vs 9's AF performance compares as I think there are a lot of 9/9II shooters sitting on the fence with this crucial performance aspect.
Great information. I am waiting for the Nikon Z9 (due to already having Nikon lenses) and I hope you do a comparison between it and the A1 so I can decide. Until then I will continue learning my D500.
D500 is great, better than any Z series for wildlife. Hopefully all the hype on Z9 AF is true and it trickles down to cheaper models, then maybe its time to sell the D500. Until then, D500 is the way to go.
@@rjpg Trying to decide between a 500mm prime with fresnel to go with my Sigma 150-600 zoom or put that money towards a quiet faster auto-focusing full frame mirrorless (hence my waiting for info on the Z9, Z8 or a newer better Z6 iii or Z7iii or Sony A1 to add to not replace my D500 that I can learn and grow into).
My back button is my primary AF button. But I have a Front Button set for Rear focus. Thus, If the AF doesn't snap using Backbutton, I press the front button, and get instantly fast and accurate AF from manual focus. Also, there is a A.I. Animal detect AF that is amazing. Keepup the great work and videos. I find them very helpful.
I guess I'm not sure what you mean by "rear focus". I have my lens focus buttons set for manual override (hold option) so I can quickly focus manually if I need to then release to get back to AF.
Superb video Steve, I'm so thankful for this. Unbiased, straight to the useful infos and from a real photographer's perspective.
Wow, outstanding photos and honest review of the A1. Since you did a review might as well do a set up guide! I am sure we would all benefit greatly from it. Looking forward to it!
Astounding images. We're witnessing new technology set a higher benchmark for wildlife photography.
Wohoo been waiting for this one..not that i could ever afford it, but your reviews are so in depth that they're always interesting to watch.
Great review .. will await Z9 review.. something is lacking in the colors that you clicked with Sony .. it doesn’t look organic.. possibly I am used to Nikon colors that these don’t look quite right ..
"No horse in the race, I can use whatever I want" = perfect 👍🏼
Great job, Steve. I enjoyed every minute of your video. I also love how fast you talk, getting the point made quickly. You have a new subscriber. I look forward to your future videos.
An excellent lesson even in my second viewing. Thank you very much.
Please set up guide. We love your advice. Work is beautiful
Amazing review Steve. Keep up the good work :)
Great video Steve. Yes, a Set Up guide would be very much appreciated!
Yep very interested In set up guide
Not only have I followed you since Nikon day’s but I will get a camera to test it
Excellent balanced review Steve and as an A1 shooter of wildlife I agree with everything you said . I would appreciate a video on your set up and customisation options as I have not yet fully settled on mine and always like to hear others opinions .
Some of the best work i have ever seen, great work Steve - inspirational stuff
Outstanding review! Thanks for taking all the time to make one. Your videos are really nicely made, Your knowledge and your ability to explain things is amazing!!
Excellent review. There's no way I can afford the A1 but, maybe, the R5 and 100-500mm lens. Thanks for such a well presented comparison between the cameras.
The R5 and 100-500 are amazing. Really great setup. My wife pulled out a lot of stunner with it in Botswana!