It's happening! Sony has officially revealed the camera we've all eagerly anticipated, the latest flagship full-frame marvel, the new Alpha 1 II! This camera unites some of the most requested and cherished features from Sony's elite camera lineup into one exceptional device. The Alpha 1 II offers unparalleled resolution, remarkable speed, and cutting-edge AI-driven technology to meet the diverse output and workflow requirements of professional photographers and videographers. Tailored for experts at the pinnacle of their craft, the Alpha 1 II is the perfect hybrid tool for fields such as photojournalism, wildlife photography, sports, portraiture, weddings, and commercial projects.
The Sony Alpha 1 II incorporates all the adored elements of the revolutionary original model, integrating a blend of the latest advancements in technology, including high resolution, speed, and AI capabilities, creating an absolute powerhouse of a camera! Featuring a full-frame Exmor RS® stacked CMOS sensor with an effective resolution of approximately 50.1 megapixels, the Alpha 1 II produces high-resolution images with an extensive dynamic range. This performance is further amplified by the latest BIONZ XR® image processing engine, which also boasts increased bandwidth to enhance additional features.
For capturing images with exceptional speed, the Alpha 1 II offers blackout-free high-speed continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking at up to 30 frames per second, capable of tracking complex movements with AF/AE calculations up to 120 times per second. The camera also introduces the highly requested Pre-Capture function, enabling image capture up to one second before the shutter button is pressed. For even higher-speed performance, users can activate the Continuous Shooting Speed Boost feature to temporarily increase frame rates during high-action moments.
In terms of AI, the Alpha 1 II is equipped with Sony’s renowned AI processing unit, enabling Real-time Recognition AF. This technology enhances its industry-leading autofocus, allowing users to accurately track animals, birds, insects, and various vehicles. It also features Sony’s human pose estimation, which instantly recognizes and tracks a person’s head and torso, even when they are moving or looking away. The Alpha 1 II introduces the latest evolution of Sony’s Real-time Recognition AF, featuring a new “Auto” mode that allows for automatic subject recognition without the need to select a specific subject mode.
Building upon its predecessor, the Alpha 1 II boasts improved optical image stabilization of up to 8.5 stops in the centre (compared to 5.5 stops on the original Alpha 1) and 7.0 stops in the periphery. The high-speed anti-distortion shutter minimizes the rolling shutter effect, delivering clear, undistorted images, while the updated processing algorithms reduce noise at mid-to-high ISO sensitivities without compromising image detail. Retaining the impressive video capabilities of the original model, the Alpha 1 II can shoot up to 8K at 30 frames per second with 10-bit 4:2:2 colour depth and 120 frames per second for 4K. It also includes a variety of tools to support streamlined video creation, such as Breathing Compensation, Auto Framing, and the ability to import User LUTs, along with a newly supported Dynamic Active Mode for enhanced stability during video capture.
Responding to customer feedback to enhance the user experience, the Alpha 1 II has been redesigned with an upgraded 3.2-inch LCD monitor featuring a highly requested 4-axis multi-angle adjustment, allowing it to be freely adjusted to any angle. The ergonomics of the camera body have also been improved with an updated grip, an enhanced quick-release shutter button, and an additional “C5” custom button for added convenience. Furthermore, the camera is compatible with the VG-C512 vertical grip, which provides additional ergonomic support and extended battery performance. For professionals seeking real-time image transfer solutions, the Alpha 1 II supports 2.5GBASE-T via wired LAN. Images and videos can be transmitted via stable, high-speed 5G communication when paired with Sony’s PDT-FP1 portable data transmitter. Additionally, images and videos can be automatically transferred directly to Adobe Lightroom™ or Google Drive™ through the latest version of Sony's cloud storage service, Creators' Cloud. Moreover, images captured with the Alpha 1 II will be compatible with Sony’s Camera Authenticity Solution, which stores detailed camera information within the image files, aiding in the ongoing battle against manipulated imagery and AI-generated fakes.
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Curious to hear how the Alpha 1 II performs? Check out Dave and Evelyn's TCSTV Hands-On Sony Alpha 1 II First Look below!
Key features of the Alpha 1 II :
- High-resolution full-frame Exmor RS® stacked CMOS sensor with an approximate effective 50.1 MP.
- Up to 30 fps blackout-free continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking.
- AI processing unit bringing advanced AI-based subject recognition performance and a new “Auto” recognition mode that automatically detects subjects.
- A High-speed, anti-distortion shutter reduces the rolling shutter effect for clear undistorted images.
- Pre-Capture of up to one second and Continuous Shooting Speed Boost.
- Improved optical image stabilization of up to 8.5 stops (center) and 7.0 stops (periphery) for still images and a new Dynamic Active Mode for videos.
- Updated processing algorithms for improved image noise reduction at mid-to-high ISO sensitivities,
- Up to 8K 30p / 4K 120p and 10-bit 4:2:2 video recording with Breathing Compensation, Auto Framing, and import User LUTs.
- Updated ergonomics and a lightweight design of approximately 743 grams (1 lb, 7.3 oz).
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Sony a1 II Mirrorless Camera Body
