New Sony A7SIII, A7CR & A7CII firmware update adds great new features!

Sony gave us a ton of new features through firmware updates!

Main features for A7CR & A7CII: auto target recognition and dynamic active stabilization.
Main features for A7SIII: custom LUTS

Sony A7sIII (download here)

  • Shooting & Playback functions:
    • Supports the Write Digital Signature function for still images as part of Sony’s Camera Authenticity Solution.
      • Installation of a paid license is required for use.
      • The timing for the provision of paid licenses to customers other than certain media outlets is yet to be determined.
      • Services may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Authenticity Catalog Page.
    • Adds log shooting mode, which allows you to shoot while displaying the monitor image with your favorite LUT (Look-Up table)
      • Please use the latest version of Catalyst Browse or Catalyst Prepare to apply the LUT used for monitoring during shooting to the video during editing.
    • Allows you to add OK/NG/KEEP flags to clips during or after movie recording
    • Adds a function that automatically creates still images with Shot Marks from movie frames after recordings
      • You can add a Shot Mark while shooting or playing a movie and use it as a mark for selecting, transferring, or editing the movie.
    • Allows the use of Focus Magnifier and Auto Magnifier in MF while using the Bright Monitoring feature
    • Adds the Golden Ratio Grid option to the Grid Line Type setting menu
    • Adds support for focus bracket shooting, which allows for continuous shooting while automatically shifting the focus position
    • Introduces additional settings for exposure value adjustments and number of shots in the exposure bracketing
    • Allows use of the Custom Key setting on the AEL button and Delete button during playback
  • FTP Transfer & Network functions:
    • Allows scheduling of FTP transfers while writing data to the camera’s storage media
    • You can now continue shooting while transferring captured photos and videos to a smartphone or tablet
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. The Creators’ App may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • Transfer to smartphones and tablets can now be resumed even if interrupted in the middle of a transfer
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. The Creators’ App may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • You can now transfer only the differences that have not yet been transferred to your smartphone or tablet, or add videos to be transferred during the transfer process
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. The Creators’ App may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • Adds support for the Network Streaming function
      • Settings must be adjusted in the Creators’ App in advance. For more information, please visit the Creators’ App support website.
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. The Creators’ App may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • Supports the following Monitor & Control app functions
      • Ver. 2.3.0 or later of the Monitor & Control app is necessary.
        The Monitor & Control app may not be available in some countries or regions.

        • Clip review during camera playback mode
        • Focus map display
        • IRIS operation bar display
  • Others:
    • Allows notifications to be displayed when the latest software is available for your camera
    • The Security (IPsec) functionality is no longer supported. Please enable and use Access Authen. as it provides more secure protection
    • WPA and WEP functionalities are no longer supported. You will no longer be able to select WPA or WEP when connecting to Wi-Fi. Please use the more secure WPA2 or WPA3 moving forward
    • Fixes an issue where the Detail feature does not work when the Picture Profile is set to S-Cinetone
    • Improves the operational stability of the camera

Sony A7CR and A7cII (download here)

  • Shooting & Playback functions:
    • Allows you to set Recognition Target to Auto, enabling the camera to automatically select subjects such as humans and animals
    • Introduces support for the Framing Stabilizer feature, which automatically adjusts the composition to keep the tracked subject in the same frame position during movie recording mode
    • Adds Dynamic Active mode to SteadyShot for movie recording
    • Allows you to add OK/NG/KEEP flags to clips during or after movie recording
    • Adds a function that automatically creates still images with Shot Marks from movie frames after recordings
      • You can add a Shot Mark while shooting or playing a movie and use it as a mark for selecting, transferring, or editing the movie.
    • Improves image quality when applying user LUTs
    • Allows the use of Focus Magnifier and Auto Magnifier in MF while using the Bright Monitoring feature
    • Adds a function that allows you to narrow down played-back images using multiple filters (e.g. Rating)
    • Adds the Golden Ratio Grid option to the Grid Line Type setting menu
    • Adds support for the Custom Grid Line feature
      • The Custom Grid Line feature is available as a paid license. Availability depends on country and region.
    • Increases the maximum number of images that can be recorded in one folder to 9,999
    • Adds support for importing/switching multiple IPTC Presets
  • FTP Transfer & Network functions:
    • Allows scheduling of FTP transfers while writing data to the camera’s storage media
    • You can now automatically schedule FTP transfer of protected movies and still images
    • Movies/still images transferred via FTP transfer can now be automatically protected
    • You can now continue shooting while transferring captured photos and videos to a smartphone or tablet
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. This service may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • Transfer to smartphones and tablets can now be resumed even if interrupted in the middle of a transfer
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. This service may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • You can now transfer only the differences that have not yet been transferred to your smartphone or tablet, or add videos to be transferred during the transfer process
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. This service may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • Adds support for the Network Streaming function
      • Settings must be adjusted in the Creators’ App in advance. For more information, please visit the Creators’ App support website.
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. This service may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • Allows you to upload camera images directly to the Creators’ Cloud
      • Settings must be adjusted in the Creators’ App in advance. For more information, please visit the Creators’ App support website.
      • Ver. 2.9.0 or later of the Creators’ App is necessary. This service may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Creators’ Cloud support website.
    • Displays the Wi-Fi signal strength when the Wi-Fi function is On
  • Others:
    • Allows notifications to be displayed when the latest software is available for your camera
    • WPA and WEP functionalities are no longer supported. You will no longer be able to select WPA or WEP when connecting to Wi-Fi. Please use the more secure WPA2 or WPA3 moving forward
    • Fixes an issue where the camera operation may become unstable when Pixel Mapping is performed
    • Improves the operational stability of the camera

 

Thanks Jordi!

 

Press text: Sony Electronics Launches FE 50-150MM F2 GM

Preorders:
BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, Fotoerhardt, Fotokoch, WexUK.

Sony Electronics Launches FE 50-150MM F2 GM

The World’s Firsti Telephoto Zoom Lens with a Maximum Focal Length of 150 mm and Constant F2 Aperture Designed for Wedding, Portrait, Indoor Sports, Photo, and Video Professionals

Sony Electronics Inc. introduces the FE 50-150mm F2 GM (SEL50150GM), the world’s firsti telephoto zoom lens with a maximum focal length of 150 mm and F2 aperture. This lens features a standard focal length of 50mm at the wide-angle end and combines a constant aperture of F2 with high resolution comparable to that of a prime lens. This allows for a wide range of scenarios with just one lens for various situations and subjects. As part of Sony’s renowned G Master™ series, the FE 50-150MM F2 GM offers an exceptional combination of high resolution and stunning bokeh, enhancing the imaging results for professionals using the Sony Alpha camera system.

“The FE 50-150MM F2 GM G Master marks a pivotal milestone in Sony’s commitment to pushing creative possibilities,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “By delivering a constant F2 aperture across its zoom range, this lens offers Sony Alpha users with an all-in-one solution that is comparable to multiple prime lenses, like a 50mm, 85mm, and 135mm. This innovation expands the versatility professionals need to capture remarkable imagery in both photography and video.”

Exceptional Image Quality and Smooth F2 Bokeh

The G Master’s internal optical design plays a crucial role in producing its exceptional image quality. By integrating two XA (extreme aspherical) elements, two Super ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements, and three ED elements, the lens effectively suppresses aberrations, ensuring sharp, high-contrast imagery across the entire zoom range. Additionally, the floating focusing system enables a minimum focusing distance of 0.4m at the wide end and a maximum magnification of 0.20 for detailed shooting.

The FE 50-150MM F2 GM’s constant F2 aperture creates beautifully smooth bokeh, making it an ideal choice for portrait, wedding, and event photographers aiming to isolate subjects with a shallow depth of field. A newly developed 11-blade circular aperture further enhances the signature G Master bokeh. When shooting videos, the lens delivers stunning cinematic results and exceptional clarity.

In addition, Sony’s proprietary “Nano AR Coating II,” applied uniformly across the entire lens surface, significantly reduces ghosting and flare even in backlit conditions, delivering clear and crisp imagery.

Internal Zoom and Compact Design

Measuring at approximately 7-7/8 inches (200 mm) in length and weighing approximately 47.3 ounces (1,340g)ii, the FE 50-150MM F2 GM offers remarkable portability considering its impressive combination of wide zoom range and bright aperture. This lens is ideal for both handheld and gimbal use with its featured internal zoom design that maintains the lens’s length and weight balance despite focal length changes. With its practical design, this lens serves as a versatile, all-in-one solution for those seeking a standard 50mm through 150mm telephoto range.

Fast and Precise Autofocus Performance

Equipped with four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors and Sony’s advanced control algorithms, the FE 50-150MM F2 GM delivers fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus (AF). This high-performance AF system is compatible with Sony’s Alpha 9 III, supporting continuous shooting at up to 120 frames per second with full AF/AE trackingiii. With a fast AF system and a versatile 50-150 mm zoom range, the lens excels at capturing fast-paced indoor sports, portraits, and events.

Cinematic Video Production

Designed with filmmakers in mind, the FE 50-150MM F2 GM minimizes focus breathing and is compatible with Sony’s Breathing Compensationiv feature on select Alpha cameras. Linear Response MF ensures intuitive manual focus control, while the lens’s internal zoom design maintains stability even while zooming mounted on gimbals. Additionally, the XD linear motors operate quietly to prevent unwanted noise from being captured during recording.

Built for durability, the FE 50-150MM F2 GM features a robust dust- and moisture-resistant designv. A fluorine coating on the front element repels contaminants, making it easy to clean and ensuring the lens remains in top condition even in challenging environments.

Pricing and Availability

The FE 50-150MM F2 GM will be available in May 2025 for approximately $3,899 USD and $5,499 CAD. It will be sold directly through Sony and at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

A product video on the new FE 50-150MM F2 GM can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/o-SZCS4SgRw

For detailed product information about the FE 50-150MM F2 GM, please visit: https://electronics.sony.com/imaging/lenses/all-e-mount/p/sel50150gm

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new FE 50-150MM F2 GM and Sony’s other imaging products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com, a site created to inform, educate, and inspire content creators.

SIRUI Lenses at Their Lowest Prices Ever – Up to 67% OFF!

Save big on Sirui lenses sold at BHphoto, Amazon.

HOT DEALS:

For the first time we have a $200 discount on the Sony A7cII sold by BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama. All new Sony rebates can be found on those pages at BHphoto, Adorama and Amazon.

Lowest price ever:

Lowest price ever on the Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A cards series sold by Amazon (Click here) and BHphoto.

Lowest price ever on the Sony TOUGH SD cards series sold by Amazon (Click here) and BHphoto.

Type A card deals

  • 10% off on Nextorage Type A cards at Amazon.