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Interview: Sony’s Masaaki Oshima – “The Alpha 1 is the first step towards the next decade”

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Interview: Sony’s Masaaki Oshima – “The Alpha 1 is the first step towards the next decade”
Masaaki Oshima, Deputy Senior General Manager, Camera System Business Division, at Sony Imaging Products & Solutions. Pictured holding the new Sony Alpha 1.

Following the launch of Sony’s new Alpha 1 (a1) full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, we sat down (virtually) with Masaaki Oshima, Deputy Senior Manager of Sony’s Camera division. As well as discussing how the Alpha 1 came into being, we also discussed the changing camera market, and how Sony intends to meet the needs of a new generation of photographers.

This interview has been edited lightly for clarity and flow.


How long has the Alpha 1 been in development?

It’s very hard to answer that – I can’t give you the exact duration of time, but it did take longer than previous models. It was very hard to develop.

The main reason is that it has a totally new imaging sensor. This new sensor has incredible specifications, and integrating it into a camera body in a way that maximizes the power of the sensor was very difficult to achieve. That took a long time.

From the very beginning we’ve been developing this camera for professionals. We aimed to exceed the expectations of both stills and movie shooters. The Alpha 1 is developed with no compromise for top professionals, I think.

What is your wider strategy for growing your professional user-base?

We’re always listening to feedback from professional customers, and reflecting it in our development. The relationships we have with professionals now are very good, and we will continue [to develop] these relationships and create products and services based on their feedback. Professionals provide us with new insights into what they want and how we can improve, they also give us hints on things we have never thought about. I think that once professionals use the Alpha 1 they will love it.

Sony’s new Alpha 1 is a powerful, versatile mirrorless interchangeable lens camera with a cutting-edge BSI-CMOS sensor. We’ve exposed the sensor here, but normally, with the lens removed, it is protected by the blades of the newly developed mechanical shutter.

Was 8K video part of the plan from the beginning?

Yes, we think that [the division between] stills and movies is less and less, nowadays. So we aimed to achieve both high quality video and high resolution photos in the same body.

Right now 8K isn’t widely popular, but we’re sure that demand will evolve, and 8K implementation is important in order for us to be successful in the future. And even now, some professionals will be interested in capturing 8K and cropping to 4K, for example. I think that the Alpha 1 is the first step towards the next decade. That’s one of the reasons why we named it ‘Alpha 1’, meaning ‘first step’.

We’ve been talking for a long time about the eventual development of global shutter technology in consumer digital imaging. Is that a technology that Sony is still interested in pursuing?

Sony already launched a global shutter sensor. It’s a small sensor, which is used in security cameras, machine vision and professional camcorders etc. We understand the advantages of global shutter, such as simultaneous data readout, but for commercial use in a full-frame format, there are some challenges around design and engineering, and also production issues. So right now, the new sensor in the Alpha 1 is the most practical.

The sensor in the Alpha 1 is so fast, why did you decide to include a mechanical shutter at all?

Well, thank you for saying so! But it’s not fast enough. Top photographers require a faster flash sync speed, of more than 1/300 sec. So we implemented a mechanical shutter with a totally new structure – a dual drive shutter system utilizing spring and electromagnetic drive actuators.

Are there any other technologies in the Alpha 1 which are completely new, and developed just for this camera?

The sensor and the shutter are both totally new [and unique to the Alpha 1]. The imaging processor and EVF are the same as the Alpha 7S III, but [we] built these into the Alpha 1 with the best tuning to maximize its performance.

The Alpha 1 and a7S III are the first in a new generation of Sony cameras which feature improved ergonomics, a redesigned body construction, and a new, highly detailed electronic viewfinder.

Can you tell us more about the construction of the Alpha 1? How is it different?

We’re still using a magnesium alloy body, but the way the parts are combined makes it more rigid. I’m sure you’d like to know about the sealing, and that’s totally different to the previous models. Compared to previous cameras, the a7S III and A1 have a totally new body structure. I can’t give you details, but we’re using very advanced [sealing] technology with the Alpha 7S III and the Alpha 1.

Is the Alpha 1 your best constructed, and best-sealed camera?

Yes. And of course the mechanical shutter now closes when you change lenses, which will provide more durability for professional use. Another reason for a mechanical shutter!

Traditionally, it’s been understood that you can either have high speed, or you can have high resolution. It’s difficult to provide both. How did you achieve this combination in the Alpha 1?

We had to develop a new sensor, and we implemented our latest imaging processor as well as a totally new analog to digital conversion method. That’s how we achieved high resolution and high speed. I cannot give you any additional details, I’m sorry!

The Sony Alpha 1 (left) shown next to an A7R IV, showing the slightly redesigned top-plate, which now includes a drive mode dial.

The Alpha 1’s imaging pipeline would appear fast enough to support some of the computational photography features that are becoming more common in smartphones and certain other imaging devices. Are you planning on introducing such features into the Alpha 1 and future cameras?

I watched your DPRTV episode recently about computational photography, and I know you’re interested in it. We haven’t implemented any so-called ‘computational’ photography features in the Alpha 1, but we do have features like Pixel Shift Multi Shooting, and long-exposure noise reduction, and they’re based on the same kind of idea.

In our Cyber-shot range we’ve introduced features for enhanced dynamic range and things like that. I can’t talk about plans for specific features in specific models but fast sensor readout is advantageous [for such features].

Do you have requests from customers for computational photography features? Things like Pro Capture in Olympus Micro Four Thirds cameras.

At the moment, no. We’ve not had those kinds of requests from top photographers. But we may consider it, if we get that feedback. I’m not sure.

What’s next for Sony in autofocus development?

We’ve evolved our autofocus functions, but we still think there’s room to improve. We will continue to strengthen our current technologies, but also will also [continue to develop] object and scene recognition – that will be key.

What do you see as the biggest unaddressed customer need in the consumer DI marketplace right now?

The demand for video, and [the needs of] young creators has not yet been addressed. The COVID-19 situation changed all of our circumstances, and also customers requirements changed, to everything being online. The creativity of young creators, and their desire to improve the quality of their pictures never stopped. So their demands are accelerating! And we have not yet addressed this yet. That’s why for example we’ve introduced concepts like the ZV-1.

Sony’s upcoming Airpeak Drone, which will be powerful enough to carry an Alpha-series full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera.

What is your strategy for bringing these young creators into the Sony ecosystem?

They want to shoot high quality pictures and video, but they might not know how to use conventional cameras. The key is to integrate our high technology in a simple, easy-to-use way. So the high-end technology that we developed for the Alpha 1 will be developed further and modified, simplified [and implemented in] ZV-1-type products.

How do you think content creation will be different in the future compared to now?

I think you want me to talk about computational photography again! But before that, as I said earlier, the boundary between stills and video will continue to be less and less [distinct]. So ‘hybrid’ shooters who create stills and movies will need to be satisfied. So we will [make devices] for them. And not only cameras, but the total workflow, from preparation onwards. This workflow is very important. So connecting, transmitting, and editing. That’s key for us.

We recently launched the new professional 5G device, Xperia PRO, and we’ve also announced our Airpeak drone. We will broaden our imaging world not only with cameras but also with smartphones and drones [all working together].

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing Sony’s camera division in 2021?

Since we entered this industry and developed our first mirrorless cameras ten years ago, we have been in a leading position. So we’ll continue to focus on developing our mirrorless cameras and make the market bigger. That’s our biggest challenge, to maintain this position. We will launch other cameras this year, not just the Alpha 1. We’ll never stop innovating and developing, not only cameras but also lenses. We aim to be the leader of this industry, by continuing to offer the best customer experiences.


Editor’s note: Barnaby Britton

This interview was the first time I’ve spoken to Mr Oshima, and his pride and excitement following the launch of the new Alpha 1 was clear in our conversation. Sony has made significant inroads in recent years with professional photographers, getting its cameras and lenses into the hands of an increasing number of photojournalists and sports photographers, a process aided by the signing of deals with major organizations and agencies. These days, Sony’s mirrorless cameras can be found everywhere from sports stadiums to the White House, which is something that would have seemed like a pipe dream back when the original A7 and A7R were released almost a decade ago into a market dominated by Canon and Nikon DSLRs.

Sony hasn’t always had the best reputation for ruggedness, but according to Mr Oshima, durability was a major priority in the design of the Alpha 1

According to Mr Oshima, the Alpha 1 is the most ‘pro’ of Sony’s professional ILCs to date, and accordingly, it took longer to develop and more difficult to bring to market than previous models. It’s certainly a highly complex camera, which – along with the recently announced a7S III – represents something of a new direction for Sony in terms of ergonomics and build. Sony hasn’t always had the best reputation for ruggedness, but according to Mr Oshima, durability was a major priority in the design of the Alpha 1 (which helps to explain why despite its super-fast sensor it still has a mechanical shutter: to protect the sensor).

Sony sees the Xperia PRO smartphone as being a companion device to its high-end cameras for video professionals.

Only time will tell whether the Alpha 1 ends up being regarded in the long run by photographers as ‘the first step towards the next decade’ but the depth of its feature-set (including 8K video) is certainly among the most future-proof of any full-frame camera that we’ve seen, including high-tech competitors like Canon’s EOS R5.

Curiously though, despite its high-speed sensor and formidable processing power, the Alpha 1 doesn’t offer much in the way of computational photography tricks. This is a shame, because assuming professionals could get used to a slightly new way of working, a feature like Olympus’s ‘Pro Capture’ in the a9 II and / or Alpha 1 would be quite something. We’re still waiting for Sony to get more confident about redefining traditional ideas of exposure, too, to help photographers make the most out of the company’s current-generation dual-gain BSI-CMOS sensors. Hopefully one day.

More new cameras and lenses are promised in 2021, and a continued commitment to innovation across Sony’s product lineup

So what comes next? Mr Oshima hints at an increasingly blurry boundary between stills and video imaging, and continued development of object and scene recognition. If that’s starting to sound like computational photography, well, we’ll see. Either way, he also promises more new cameras and lenses coming in 2021, and a continued commitment to innovation across Sony’s product lineup. As Sony builds out its high-end smartphones (and kudos to the company for finding a niche for that technology with the creator community) and drones, we’d also expect to see more of a focus on end-to-end workflow, and hardware integration across the company’s wider product portfolio.

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Ulanzi’s 52mm MagFilter Magnetic Filters offers interchangeable filters for smartphones

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Ulanzi’s 52mm MagFilter Magnetic Filters offers interchangeable filters for smartphones


Image: Ulanzi

Lens filters for smartphones are not a new concept. Designed to give photographers more creative and technical control over their images, there are several types on the market today that can control how much light comes into the camera, reduce reflections and flare or add more vibrancy to your images with different color tones.

Up until a few years ago, photographers wanting to add a physical filter to a smartphone would need to attach a clamped filter that sits at the top of the phone’s camera lenses or use a third-party smartphone lens with filters.

Although useful, clamps tend to be bulky and aren’t always the easiest to align with your camera. Third party lenses offer more accuracy, but good-quality options can cost in excess of $100, without the inclusion of filters.

Ulanzi aims to be different by offering a lightweight foldable adapter ring that snaps on to the center of your MagSafe compatible device or case, which the manufacture says leads to a quicker workflow and more accurate alignment of the filter to the camera lens on the back of the phone. On an iPhone 14 or 15 it works by magnetically attaching to the rear using Apple’s MagSafe attachment system.

For users without an iPhone, there are workarounds through the use of third-party smartphone cases with magnetic ring plates that emulating MagSafe. WIth such a case, you can attach Ulanzi’s adapter to the ring plate and use the filters as normal.

As we reported last week, the concept isn’t new. Tiffen recently released a similar product with its MagSafe 58mm Filter Mount. Both products approach a solution to adding filters in a similar manner but differ in design. The Ulanzi opts for compactness with a foldable design.

The Tiffen comes with one polarizing filter (you can buy other filters separately) at around $40. In contrast, the Ulanzi’s version comes as a kit for $219 with an ND filter, a polarizing filter, one soft focus filter and a selection of color effect filters. There’s a storage case as well. Having multiple filters packed in may be enticing to users seeking to experiment with different filters and want the simplicity of having them all packaged together.


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Tamron announces 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Nikon Z mount

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Tamron announces 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Nikon Z mount


Image: Tamron

Tamron has announced it will release its popular 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 fast standard zoom for Nikon’s Z-mount.

Nikon already sells a 28-75mm F2.8 with an optical formula and calculated MTF charts that are a match for Tamron’s original, stepper-motor driven 28-75mm F2.8 Di III RXD. The newer, linear-motor-driven G2 model features improved optical performance.


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The G2 uses a more complex 17 element / 15 group design and has a fractionally shorter minimum focus distance (18cm/7.1″ vs 19cm/7.5″) to deliver very slightly increased maximum magnification. The G2 is also a fraction lighter than the Nikon-branded 28-75mm, weighing 550g (19.4oz), rather than 565g (19.9oz). On the E-mount versions, Tamron claimed the VXD linear motor design was twice as fast as the RXD version.

The focal length range makes the 28-75mm a wide to short-telephoto lens for Nikon’s full-frame Z-mount cameras but could, in principle, be used as a 42-113mm equivalent on DX APS-C bodies, if you wished.

Click here to see the Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 G2 gallery shot on Sony E-mount

The announcement adds a more affordable option for Nikon’s Z-mount users, but the hope has to be that, letting Tamron compete against its own-brand lenses, might also indicate some relaxation of Nikon’s restrictions around the mount. As the footnotes make clear, this lens is “developed, manufactured and sold under the license agreement with Nikon Corporation.”

The Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD will be available from April 18th at an MSRP of $999. This is $100 more than the E-mount version and a match for the current price of the Nikkor Z 28-75mm F2.8. It’s $200 below Nikon’s launch price for the Nikkor version.

TAMRON announces the launch of fast-aperture standard zoom lens for “Nikon Z mount system”

28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Model A063) for Nikon Z mount

March 27, 2024, 11pm ET / 8PM PT, Commack, NY – Tamron announces the launch of the 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Model A063), a fast-aperture standard zoom lens, for Nikon Z mount full-frame mirrorless cameras1. The lens will be available April 18, 2024, at $999 USD / $1399 CAD.

The 28-75mm F2.8 G2 is compact and easy to use yet has excellent optical performance and is compatible with the latest digital cameras with increasingly high pixel resolution. The AF drive uses a linear motor focus mechanism VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) that is fast, highly accurate and quiet. The lens also excels at close-up shooting, achieving an MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 7.1” (0.18m) at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7. Additionally, the lens design takes operability into consideration by including a coating with excellent scratch resistance on the barrel of the lens and a rubber focusing ring for a comfortable, secure grip among other features.

TAMRON pioneered the category of compact fast-aperture standard zoom lenses for mirrorless models. Now the 28-75mm F2.8 G2 will be available for Nikon Z mount as the ideal everyday lens for Nikon full-frame mirrorless camera users.

Product highlights

1. Best image quality in the standard zoom lens class

The new zoom leverages the latest design expertise and comprises an optical construction with 17 elements in 15 groups. Two optimally arranged LD (Low Dispersion) and GM (Glass Molded Aspherical) lens elements control optical aberrations to the highest degree. The lens provides high-resolution performance from edge-to-edge and corner-to-corner over the entire zoom range, even at wide open aperture. In addition, the soft, beautiful, round bokeh that can be achieved with a fast-aperture lens adds a distinctive dimension, especially to portraits. The overall compact size and high performance can be used advantageously with top-class, ultra-high-resolution mirrorless cameras.

2. Fast, quiet VXD linear motor for high-speed and high precision autofocus

The AF drive system employs TAMRON’s VXD linear motor focus mechanism. The high-speed, high-precision AF is exceedingly responsive and provides dependable and accurate focusing performance from MOD to infinity, despite the fast F2.8 aperture. The lens delivers excellent focus tracking of moving objects, so you are always ready for fast action. Additionally, the focus motor is quiet, so it’s ideal for shooting both still images and video in situations that demand low noise.

3. Lightweight and compact

The 28-75mm F2.8 G2 is a fast-aperture standard zoom lens with a remarkably compact and lightweight design, just 4.7” (119.8mm) long. The maximum diameter is 75.8mm and it weighs only 19.4 oz. (550g). Filter size is 67mm. With a size that’s easy to carry and a light weight that’s well-suited for handheld shooting for extended periods, the 28-75mm F2.8 G2 will surely become your favorite zoom for travel, street shooting, everyday carry, and spontaneous photo opportunities.

4. MOD of 7.1” (0.18m) at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7 for creative close-ups

The 28-75mm F2.8 G2 features an MOD of 7.1” (0.18m) at the wide end. The working distance shrinks to around 1.7” (4.4cm) when used at MOD. Because the maximum magnification ratio is 1:2.7, you can get close to your subject for wide macro photography, enabling powerful visual impact with the subject positioned large in the frame while keeping a wide view of the background.

5. TAMRON Lens Utility™ expands the possibilities of still photography and video shooting

The 28-75mm F2.8 G2 is compatible with the dedicated TAMRON Lens Utility software developed in-house by TAMRON that empowers users to easily update the lens to the latest firmware without going through the camera2 and includes functions to support focusing operations and other actions when shooting still images or video. By utilizing a wide range of functions3, users can expand the breadth of expression in still images and video. For example, A-B Focus allows users to limit focusing to two pre-selected focus points, shifting focus from one subject to the other with just a click of the Focus Set Button. Users can also choose between Linear and Non-Linear, which affects how the focus shifts during manual focusing.

6. Enhanced overall lens design for user-friendly operation

Every individual part of the lens has been carefully scrutinized, right down to the fine details, resulting in an enhanced design that optimizes both operability and ergonomics. The surface of the lens exterior is glossy black. Improved abrasion resistance makes the lens barrel harder to scratch and resists fingerprints. Additionally, the grip performance has been improved. The smoothly curved, elegant surface of the brand ring creates a dignified appearance with a design that signifies functional beauty and high quality.

7. Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating provide extra protection

1. The lens for Sony E-mount previously launched on October 28, 2021.

2. To connect your PC and lens, use the TAMRON Connection Cable (USB Type-A to Type-C/ Model CC-150, or USB Type-C to Type-C/ Model CC-350) sold separately. To connect your smartphone and lens, use the TAMRON Connection Cable (USB Type-C to Type-C/ Model CC-350) sold separately. Lens firmware updates are not supported with the Mobile version. Performing firmware updates requires the TAMRON Lens Utility for PC and a computer.

3. The ring function (Focus/Aperture) is not supported for Nikon Z mount.

Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 specifications

(Length and weight refer to E-mount version)



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Sony announces major firmware upgrades for a1, a9 III, a7S III and a7 IV

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Sony announces major firmware upgrades for a1, a9 III, a7S III and a7 IV


Photo: Dan Bracaglia

Sony has announced major firmware updates for four of its current full-frame range, bringing many features and behaviors up to its latest standards and adding C2PA authenticity verification capabilities.

Sony a1 f/w v2.00

Firmware v2.00 for the Sony a1 is perhaps the most extensive, adding features that have appeared in other models in the three-and-a-bit years since it was launched, such as the lens breathing compensation function. It also adds a handful of new features and modifications of behavior, including an option to ensure the EVF remains on, regardless of the LCD position, and relay playback of images across multiple media. Among the extensive list of additions an updates are features such as Timecode Sync, previously only available in Sony’s Cinema Line cameras.

A series of FTP options, including SFTP support are also added.

The firmware doesn’t activate the C2PA function – which not only authenticates the camera and date/time but also that the photo is of a 3D subject, not a photo of a photo – but instead adds the capability to the camera. Once installed, users need to activate a separate license via the Creators’ App to use the function.

Sony a7S III f/w v3.00

Firmware v3.00 brings many of the updates seen in the a1, including Timecode Sync, breathing compensation and relay playback. It also adds the ability to close the mechanical shutter when the camera is turned off, to mitigate dust ingress, and the ability to transfer Raw files to smartphones.

In addition to the C2PA capability, firmware v3.00 includes the ability to add DCI 4K 24p shooting. Again a license needs to be downloaded to a camera running the new firmware to actually activate the function.

Sony a7 IV f/w v3.00

As one of the most recently updated cameras on this list, the a7 IV gains fewer features than the other cameras here. But in addition to C2PA capability, it adds network streaming, direct cloud upload support and an expansion of the features accessible via software development kit (SDK).

Sony a9 III f/w v2.00 [Expected April 9th]

As the newest of the cameras here, the a9 III receives fewer additions and updates than the a1 and a7S III, as in many instances they are gaining the features that the latest a9 introduced. However, in addition to details such as outputting lens names in video file metadata, the a9 III gains the promised ability to use the camera’s full shutter speed range when continuous shooting. But beyond this, the a9 III gains a small array of feature expansions and refinements being added across the four cameras, including the ability to extract stills from video capture, to take advantage of its lack of rolling shutter.

{PressRelease}

Sony Electronics Delivers Firmware Updates including C2PA Compliancy as a Next Step to Ensure Authenticity of Images

SAN DIEGO, March 27, 2024 – Today, Sony Electronics delivers the highly anticipated firmware updates for the Alpha 1 (Ver. 2.00), Alpha 7S III (Ver. 3.00), Alpha 7 IV (Ver. 3.00), and after April 2024, the Alpha 9 III (Ver.2.00). The update contains some of Sony’s most impactful technology, including Camera Authenticity Solution, the proprietary in-camera digital signature and C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity) format support1. Together, these tools will make it possible for news agencies to ensure the authenticity of images, contributing to industry efforts to protect creators, and society from fake imagery.

Additionally, the firmware updates include many requested features to improve everyday use. The update evolves shooting functions and post-shooting workflow and brings advanced movie features like breathing compensation. It also includes new remote-control capabilities, new features for professional applications, and expanded access to cloud services applications.

“There is nothing more core to our mission than listening to the voices of the photographers, videographers, and filmmakers who shoot with Sony Alpha cameras. We know this community has been asking for these updates, and we’re happy to deliver. Each of these updates are designed to promote ease of use for our creators and allow them to maximize the strengths of their cameras,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “We’re especially pleased to deliver C2PA compliancy with this update. This compliancy paired with our unique digital signature technology, allows us to offer the most secure and comprehensive solution to protect professional photographers, news agencies, and society from manipulated imagery.”

Camera Authenticity Solution

Last year, Sony announced its commitment to developing technology in its cameras to aid in the fight against manipulated imagery and AI-generated fakes. The severity of this issue is only increasing and it’s a complex problem that requires the focus and attention of our entire industry.

One critical part of the solution is making more Sony cameras C2PA compliant. C2PA is a Joint Development Foundation project, where Sony is a steering committee member. C2PA aims to develop an end-to-end open technical standard to provide publishers, creators and consumers with opt-in, flexible ways to understand the authenticity, and provenance of different types of media. The C2PA is a standards-setting body that will develop technical specifications on content provenance and authentication by certifying the source and history of media content. With this firmware update, the authenticity information embedded on images from Alpha 1, Alpha 9 III, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 7 IV can be maintained from capture through publication. This provides professional photographers with the ability to preserve their digital signature from the camera, while tracking the editing history throughout revisions.

Another critical component of the solution is Sony’s in-camera digital signature technology2 that signs images in real-time. This new feature certifies the authenticity of an image at the point of capture and creates a ‘digital birth certificate’ that is retained throughout revisions. The signature contains metadata including 3D-depth information captured through the proprietary technology in the image sensor developed by Sony. This depth information can show if the image captured was of an actual 3D object, vs a photograph of an image or video, providing an extra level of protection and even more assurance of the content’s authenticity, and making Sony’s solution especially unique for photojournalists and news agencies.

Sony’s solution also helps protect the authenticity of content by including an Image Validation Site, which verifies the image even after edits have been made by C2PA-compliant editing software. This service confirms the authenticity of the photo was taken by a specific camera and that the object of the photo is 3D. This service will initially be offered to select news media agencies, expanding to other agencies at a later date.

Sony’s Camera Authenticity Solution overview diagram
Example image of 3D Image verification

Shooting and Playback Updates

The firmware updates include over 10 new features, as well as improvements to existing features, designed to improve the user’s overall shooting experience. These improved capabilities showcase Sony’s commitment to continuing to evolve the functionality of Sony’s existing camera models. A few highlights of the firmware update functions include:

  • Relay Playback: Enables seamless sequential playback from one memory card slot to another on the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 9 III.
  • Playback Filter Condition: Lets users categorize image playback based on select criteria including date, folder, file format, and more on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III
  • Breathing Compensation: The highly requested Breathing Compensation function3 is now available on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.
  • Upgrade DCI 4K / 24.00p Upgrade License on Alpha 7S III: via a free downloadable license through Creators’ Cloud4.
  • Sync Release function: Enables simultaneous shutter release with two or more multiple cameras connected to the main camera5 on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 9 III.
  • Focus frame display: Focus frame will be displayed on the Remote Camera Tool screeniii on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 9 III.
  • Enhanced image stabilization: The camera body and lens effectively work together to correct larger blurs6 on the Alpha 1.
  • Increased upper limit of recordable images in a folder from 4,000 to 9,999 on the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III, A7 IV, and Alpha 9 III.
  • Matching the time code with other devices is now possible with a dedicated adapter cable (sold separately)7 on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.
  • Up to 20 IPTC presets can be on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.
  • Custom Grid Line is available as a paid license basis for some models8.

File Transfer and Network Connectivity

Additional updates aimed to optimize the post-production workflow efficiency include improvements to International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC) preset and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) transfer operability. To streamline processes for users, expanded cloud upload and application services will be available. Key updates include:

  • Cloud upload (camera direct) function allows users to upload images directly to the Sony’s Creators’ Cloud9. Key additional features include simplified camera software updates, direct camera registration to the Creators’ Cloud, and a flexible system for uploading, storing, and sharing content. Additionally, the capability to manage video and LUT files via mobile apps, along with the transfer of RAW files to smartphones, optimizes the creative process in fast-paced environments.
  • FTP Transfer Improvements: A “Protected Images Only” option for the Auto FTP Transfer and a “Protect Image in FTP Transfer” option for the FTP transfer function have been added. Available on the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 9 III.
  • Support for USB streaming10 on the Alpha 1.
  • Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) has been added to secure protocol on the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S III, and Alpha 9 III and WPA3-SAE is now supported for wireless LAN on the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.
  • Network streaming enables direct live streaming from the Alpha 7 IV to a streaming sitevii.
  • Expansion of app support with Creators’ App and Monitor & Control app now supported with the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III.

Many of these updates are applicable to multiple cameras, however for a list of each body’s specific update please check the Sony website.

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with Sony’s imaging products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony α – Alpha brand.

1. This feature is available to some news organizations at the press release timing.
2. Both Sony’s in-camera digital signature technology and C2PA compliancy are currently available through a separate upgrade license.
3. For compatible lens information, please refer to the support page (https://www.sony.net/dics/breathing/)
4. For regional app/service availability, check here. To use this service, it is necessary to download and install the upgrade license.
5. Remote Camera Tool Version 4.1.0 is required to activate the function.
6. For compatible lens information, please refer to the support page (https://www.sony.net/dics/func1002/)
7. A dedicated adapter cable, which is sold separately, is required to connect to the timecode source equipment.
8. Availability varies depending on country and region. Available through the Upgrade and License Management Suite at https://ulms.sony.net.
9. For regional app/service availability, check here. Creators’ App Ver.2.3.1 or later is necessary. Settings must be made in the Creators’ App in advance. For more information, please visit the Creators’ App support website (https://www.sony.net/ca/help/opr/)

10. When connecting to a device with a USB Type-C port, please use a commercially available USB cable or a conversion adapter.

{/PressRelease}



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