So… That Sony A7IV…

First let me say this. The Sony A7IV is an impressive camera. Unlike some other recent upgrades (<cough> Nikon <cough>) there are substantial upgrades above adding card slots and what could largely be accomplished via firmware. 33MP is a nice, reasonable bump in resolution that would bring noticeable detail improvements while not being overly demanding on computers or storage. It also adds:

• Even faster AF all around.
• Substantial video spec improvements.
  • Eye AF in video including Animals.
  • Touch to track in video.
  • Fully articulating screen.
  • More impressive features, but I rarely shoot videos.
• Touch screen in menus.
• New menu structure from higher up A7 bodies.
• Larger body with a more substantial grip and port covers.
• Improved buttons, dials, and controls.
  • Even re-purposes the exposure dial to a multi-function dial that now resembles the three dial control set up on my K-1.
• They put the card ports in the right order and adds high capacity card compatibility to one of them.
• More stuff, but I will stop here.

And with all that added it maintains a reasonable asking price. Well done Sony. And I will not be ordering one.

Why?

It largely comes down to something I wrote in a post about my experiences using the A7III for a Harlem stranger photo shoot during a NYC photo walk.

Each time there is a new Sony full frame release…

“…I stick with the A7III. It has survived the release of quite a few newer Sony A7 models now. And even with the inevitable A7IV release ahead I struggle to think of any feature that would motivate me to upgrade.”

While admittedly smitten with the A7c I see that camera as a compliment rather than a replacement.

To summarize the A7IV’s largest competitor is the A7III for me. Is the A7IV better? Yes. Without question. But it brings up a question I asked myself recently when I considered upgrading to the high MP A7RIV when a friend purchased one.

Was I happy with the camera I have before this came up?

Yes.

All that being said would I like to have an A7IV?

Also yes.

But not enough to give up my A7III and pay the difference a trade would require. And if I keep the A7III I do not need an A7IV. Trade the A7c one might suggest, but I prefer that camera for everyday use and for adapting legacy glass. And as far as the video perks like an articulating screen and video Eye AF the A7c has me covered.

Sony made the A7III so good that I still see no need for an upgrade. Marking myself safe from yet another camera release.

Well done Sony.

I close with more samples from that same NYC trip taken with the A7III.

Happy shooting.

-ELW