Sony Middle East and Africa has announced the release of two new additions to the Alpha 7C series of compact full-frame interchangeable lens cameras, the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7CR. The Alpha 7C II is equipped with a full-frame image sensor with approximately 33.0 effective megapixels and features the latest still image and video functions and performance in a compact and lightweight design (approximately 124mm wide x 71.1mm high x 63.4mm deep and weighs approximately 514 g. It is the second-generation version of the Alpha 7C series, which is celebrated for its combination of performance and features in a compact size, perfect for a wide range of shooting scenarios such as travel and street photography.

The Alpha 7CR is a new compact full-frame interchangeable lens camera, boasting the high-resolution and rich gradation performance of a full-size image sensor with approximately 61.0 effective megapixels, the same sensor found in the Alpha 7R V, into a compact and lightweight body (similar size and weight as the Alpha 7C II, approximately 515 g). In addition to daily snapshots, it easily realises high-quality image capture in a wide variety of settings, such as portrait, wildlife, and landscape photography, realising the combination of extreme high-resolution image capture with mobility and light-weightness.

Both models are equipped with the same AI-processing unit and BIONZ XR processors found in Sony’s newest interchangeable lens cameras such as the Alpha 7R V and Alpha 6700. Real-time Recognition AF recognises a wide variety of subjects with high accuracy, and 5-axis in-body image stabilisation provides a seven-step shooting advantage when capturing stills. In terms of video performance, both models support high-quality 4:2:2 10-bit video recording up to 4K60p, and both models support Sony’s acclaimed S-Cinetone colour science for rich cinematic video. In addition, they have Active Mode in-body image stabilisation, AI-based Auto Framing, digital-audio interface support, and other features that support high-quality video shooting.

As the demand for sending and sharing captured content on social media networks (SNS) has increased, more creators are looking for a combination of compact size and high imaging performance in mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. With the introduction of the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7CR, which achieve high mobility and high-quality image expression in a compact size, Sony responds to the wide range of image expressions sought by creators.

Main Features of the Alpha 7C II

• Equipped with a full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R® CMOS sensor with approximately 33.0 effective megapixels and the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine to achieve high imaging performance. For capturing either still images or movies, users can easily enjoy high-quality image capture in a wide range of scenes such as travel and daily snapshots.
• Compared to the Alpha 7 IV which is approximately 131.3 mm x 96.4 mm x 79.8 mm and weighs approximately 658 g, the α7C II is up to 22% lighter and has up to 45% less volume.
• The standard ISO sensitivities range from 100 to 51200 for both still images and movies (expanded ISO 50 to 204800 for still images), enabling high-sensitivity, noise-free shooting.

Main Features of the Alpha 7CR

• Equipped with a full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor with approximately 61.0 effective megapixels and the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine to achieve high-resolution and high-definition imaging performance.
• Compared to the Alpha 7R V which is approximately 131.3 mm x 96.9 mm x 82.4 mm and weighs approximately 723 g, the Alpha 7CR is approximately 29% lighter and has approximately 53% less volume.
• The standard ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 32000 for both still images and movies (expanded ISO 50 to 102400 for still images).
• In addition to 7.0-step optical 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, even slight blurring at the 1-pixel level is detected and corrected.
• Equipped with a Pixel Shift Multi Shooting that takes multiple images and synthesises them on a PC to create an image with a sense of high resolution.
• By combining with the grip extension GP-X2 included with the Alpha 7CR, you can shoot comfortably with a stable hold even when shooting for long periods of time or using a telephoto lens.

Common Features of the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7CR
Both models are easy to handle and easy to carry. Compact size (both models are approximately 124 mm wide x 71.1mm high x 63.4mm deep) and weigh approximately 514 g for the Alpha 7C II and approximately 515 g for the Alpha 7CR. When combined with the wide-angle zoom lens FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II (model SEL1635GM2) announced today, it achieves excellent image expression and high-speed AF that are unique to the G Master with the brightness of F2.8 at full zoom range. The user can choose their favourite lens from Sony’s extensive E-mount series of more than 70 and enjoy a variety of image expressions unique to full size in both still images and movies.

Equipped with the same AI-processing unit as the Alpha 7R V, it recognises subjects with high accuracy with Real-time Recognition AF. For example, when taking a picture of a person, even if the person takes a complicated pose or their face is hidden, pose estimation technology can be used to capture and track the subject with high accuracy. In addition to the existing people and animals of the Alpha 7C series, it is now possible to recognise birds, insects, cars, trains, and aeroplanes as subjects that can be recognised.

The Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7CR condense high-resolution and detailed video data equivalent to 7K and 6K, respectively, and can output high-quality 4K video. Equipped with S-Log3, which supports a wide latitude of 14+ stops, it renders rich gradation with little overexposure and underexposure even in scenes with contrast. Also, in Log shooting mode, the LUT imported by the user can be displayed on the camera monitor image, allowing the user to shoot while checking the finished image in post-production.

In addition, it is equipped with the S-Cinetone, a unique Sony feature that can create a cinematic look straight out of the camera without post-processing. Based on Sony’s Cinema Line technology, S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones that are essential to healthy-looking skin colour to deliver cinematic quality. It also features Creative Look, which allows you to easily change the look and feel of video and still images.

Equipped with a touch-operable vari-angle LCD monitor, intuitive operation with the latest touch menu supports comfortable shooting. In addition to the front dial that allows the user to assign their favourite functions, the still image/movie/S&Q switch dial, and an XGA high-resolution viewfinder, etc., it is easy to use. It is equipped with a 7.0-step4 optical 5-axis in-body image stabilisation to support stable camera work. In terms of connectivity, the camera is newly compatible with the smartphone application Creators’ App which easily uploads videos and still images taken with the camera to a cloud service, allowing remote camera operation and image transfer from the camera to mobile devices.

Over the past 11 years, Sony has replaced approximately 395 tons of virgin plastic with recycled plastic in digital cameras and digital video cameras. Recycled materials, including SORPLAS, are used for the camera body, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing functionality. In addition to being equipped with Sony’s Screen Reader function that reads menus and video playback screens aloud to assist operations, a new menu Magnify Display function has been added to support the creative activities of a variety of creators.

The new Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7CR will be available in selected countries in the Middle East and Africa from 30^th September 2023. 

Canon has announced that it has reached two major production milestones – a cumulative total of 110 million EOS Series interchangeable-lens cameras in March and 160 million RF/EF series interchangeable lenses in May. An EOS R6 Mark II was the 110 millionth EOS series camera produced, while an RF 100mm F2.8 L MACRO IS USM became the Company’s 160 millionth interchangeable lens.

EOS, or Electro-Optical System, is also the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn. Canon’s EOS system debuted alongside the EF series of interchangeable lenses in March 1987 as the world’s first fully-electronic mount system for silver halide film AF SLR cameras. During the dawn of digital SLR cameras, Canon introduced its breakthrough EOS 300D (EOS Digital Rebel or EOS Kiss Digital in other regions) in September 2003.

Since that time, Canon has continued to launch a range of groundbreaking products, including the professional-model EOS-1D series and the EOS 5D series, which paved the way for digital SLR video recording. Canon’s desire to further expand the boundaries of visual expression led to its next-generation EOS R System, launched in October 2018. By striving to expand its lineup of attractive products to meet a diverse range of needs, Canon’s EOS series has gained and maintained the support of many users over the years. As a result, the company has maintained the world’s No. 1 share of digital SLR cameras over 20 years, from 2003 to 2022. In March 2023, Canon produced its 110 millionth EOS series camera.

Canon’s proprietary EF lenses, launched in March 1987 along with the EOS SLR camera system, have continued to evolve since their introduction, leading the industry through the incorporation of a wide range of innovative technologies, including such world firsts as the Ultrasonic Motor (USM), Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, and a multilayered diffractive optical (DO) element.

With the addition of the RF Lens – which achieves unprecedented high image quality by leveraging a large aperture and short-back focus, along with a high-speed signal transmission system, that is the hallmarks of the EOS R System launched in 2018 – the entire range of lenses has been expanded to include a total of 115 models, expanding the possibilities of image capture. In May 2023, the Company celebrated the production of 160 million EOS series interchangeable lenses.

Refining its proprietary imaging technologies, Canon will continue to strengthen and expand the EOS series along with its RF and EF lens lineup, striving to push the frontier of imaging forward and to contribute to the further development of photographic and video imaging culture.

The EOS series, a new generation of AF SLR cameras that adopt the world’s first electronic mount system achieving full electronic control of the entire system, was launched with the EOS 650, released in March 1987. As silver halide cameras boomed, Canon launched several models covering a wide range of user needs, including the EOS-1 in Japan in 1989, aimed at professionals, and the EOS 500 (EOS Rebel XS or EOS Kiss in other regions) in Japan in 1993, which achieved a compact, lightweight design and greatly expanded Canon’s user base.

Then in 2003, during the early years of the digital camera age, the Company released in Japan the groundbreaking EOS 300D Digital (EOS Digital Rebel or EOS Kiss Digital in other regions), an entry-level digital SLR camera that realized a compact, lightweight body at an affordable price. This move would trigger a massive expansion of the camera market, with Canon claiming the overwhelming lead in market share that same year. With the later release of the EOS-1D Series for professionals and the EOS 5D series, which helped popularise video capture using SLR cameras, Canon has continued to release epoch-making products.

In October 2018 Canon launched the EOS R System, which includes the inaugural EOS R and the EOS R5 – the first camera to feature 8K video recording – released in July 2020 along with the EOS R3 in November 2021, which features tracking of fast-moving subjects and continuous shooting performance, and the compact, light-weight EOS R100, thus expanding the company’s product lineup.

In addition, Canon launched the EOS VR System, designed to record video for virtual reality content, in December 2021. With the launch of these products and technologies, Canon is tirelessly pursuing new possibilities for visual expression.

Since the release of the first EF lens, launched alongside the EOS series in March 1987, Canon has produced such EF lenses featuring world-first technologies as the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM with image stabilization in Japan in 1995, the EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM with a DO lens in Japan in 2001 and the EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM, treated with highly antireflective Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) in Japan in 2008.

In 2018, Canon released the RF 28-70mm F2 L USM – a standard zoom lens to achieve the world’s first fast f/2 aperture across the entire zoom range – and in May 2023, the company released the RF 100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM large-diameter telephoto zoom lens that realizes both high image quality and portability.

Today, Canon boasts 115 lenses in its rich RF and EF lens lineup that comprises such lenses as an ultra-wide-angle 5.2 mm focal length lens, a 1200 mm focal length super-telephoto lens and EF Cinema Series lenses for video production. With a wide selection of lenses for every purpose including zoom lenses, IS-equipped lenses, fast-aperture lenses, macro lenses, VR lenses and even the TS-E tilt-shift lenses, Canon is well-positioned to meet the needs of various users.

Sony Middle East and Africa announced the release of its newest APS-C mirrorless camera, the α6700 (ILCE-6700). This new offering combines the cutting-edge still image and video capabilities found in the latest full-frame Alpha and Cinema Line series with the compact and lightweight design of the α6000 series, resulting in Sony’s most advanced APS-C mirrorless camera to date.

Combining an APS-C back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor boasting 26.0 effective megapixels with the speed and power of Sony’s advanced BIONZ XR processing engine, the α6700 achieves exceptional imaging performance while maintaining a compact and lightweight design. The camera supports high-resolution 4K video recording at up to 120fps, a wide latitude of 14+ stops for capturing details in harsh or under-lit conditions and features the S-Cinetone picture profile found in Sony’s professional Cinema Line for refined movie imagery that doesn’t require colour grading, and it delivers stunning representation of human skin tones.

For videographers and vloggers, Sony simultaneously releases the ECM-M1 shotgun microphone, capable of high-quality sound with eight sound pickup modes including stereo. The latest APS-C size, back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor boasts approximately 26.0 effective megapixels, paired with our advanced BIONZ XR engine for exceptional imaging performance. Standard ISO sensitivity spans 100 to 32000 for both stills and movies, allowing high-sensitivity, low-noise shooting. Enhanced colour reproduction ensures subjects like people and plants are captured with natural hues, while Creative Look features allow unique visual expressions.

The AI processing unit is inherited from the “α7R V,” enabling high accuracy “Real-Time Recognition AF (autofocus).” Beyond the α6000 series’ human and animal recognition, it now accurately identifies various subjects such as human, animal, bird, insect, car/train, and airplane, catering to diverse creative expressions. When paired with today’s newly launched FE 70-200mm F4.0 G Macro OSS II, it offers 105 mm to 300 mm focal lengths in 35mm full-frame equivalent, leveraging the power of telephoto zoom for high-quality shooting. Additionally, it’s compatible with a broad array of E-mount lenses, and Sony’s E-mount lenses cover full-frame and Cinema Line cameras with a single mount.

Harnessing data equivalent to 6K, the α6700 outputs superior 4K video, including support for high-frame-rate recording at 4K 120fps. It features S-Log3, offering a latitude of 14+2 above, for stellar gradation. Also equipped with S-Cinetone, the α6700 offers impressive skin tone depiction and subject highlighting, technologies honed through our Cinema Line development, while its AI-driven Auto-Framing smoothly tracks subjects, eliminating the need for manual camera movement. The body houses a Multi-Interface (MI) Shoe compatible with digital audio interfaces. Used in conjunction with our new ECM-M1 shotgun microphone, it allows for direct digital audio transmission, capturing high-quality, undegraded sound.

With a compact design, the α6700 is highly portable. It claims a user-friendly, touch-operable vari-angle LCD monitor, coupled with a modern touch menu for effortless operation. A customisable front dial and a switching dial for still images, movies, and S&Q modes are also featured. It is also equipped with an optical 5-axis in-body image stabilisation system with 5.0 stops of shutter speed advantage for stills and an Active Mode ensures stable footage. In terms of connectivity, the camera now supports the Creators’ App for seamless uploads of videos and still images to cloud services. Sony also plans to roll out a new version of the “Camera Remote SDK” in July 2023, allowing remote operation and setting adjustments.

Over the past 10 years, Sony has replaced approximately 379 tons of virgin plastic with recycled plastic in digital cameras and digital video cameras. Recycled materials, including SORPLAS, are actively used for the camera body, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing functionality. In addition, it is equipped with a Screen Reader function that reads menus and video playback screens aloud to assist operations, supporting the creative activities of a wide variety of creators.

Sony is set to launch the ECM-M1, the world’s first shotgun microphone with eight dial-selectable audio recording modes. With 4 microphone capsules and unique beamforming and advanced digital processing technology, it offers varied modes including stereo. Its ultra-directional mode captures targeted sound from the front (within a 30-degree width) and at the same time effectively suppresses other sounds, dynamically adapting to ambient sound in the surroundings. This mode is ideal for interviews and selfie-oriented scenarios where the subject is always in front of the microphone.

A newly added mode dial with a locking mechanism ensures easy, secure switching of sound pickup modes. The ECM-M1 features noise reduction utilities like a noise-cut filter for reducing background noise and a low-cut filter for minimising vibration and low-frequency noise. These filters are implemented through digital signal processing, maximising audio quality at the recording stage and thereby reducing the need for complex post-processing. It also supports 4-channel recording (compatible cameras only), allowing safety recording in omnidirectional mode on channels 3 and 4, while channels 1 and 2 focus on selected directivity.

The new α6700 and ECM-M1 will be available from July 2023 onwards.