α1 II FLAGSHIP FOR PROFESSIONALS

Full Specifications and Features

ILCE-1M2

$8,499.99

General

CAMERA TYPE
Interchangeable lens digital camera
Lens Mount
E-mount

Camera Section

SENSOR TYPE
35-mm full frame (35.9 x 24.0 mm), Exmor RS CMOS sensor
NUMBER OF PIXELS (Total)
Approx. 50.5 megapixels
NUMBER OF PIXELS (EFFECTIVE)
Still images: Approx. 50.1 megapixels max., Movies: Approx. 42.0 megapixels max.
COLOR TEMPERATURE RANGE
2500 K–9900 K

Image Sensor

Anti-Dust System
Yes

Recording (still images)

RECORDING FORMAT
JPEG (DCF Ver. 2.0, Exif Ver. 2.32, MPF Baseline compliant), HEIF (MPEG-A MIAF compliant), RAW (Sony ARW 5.0 format compliant)
IMAGE SIZE (PIXELS) [3:2]
35 mm full frame L: 8640 x 5760 (50 M), M: 5616 x 3744 (21 M), S: 4320 x 2880 (12 M)

Recording (movie)

VIDEO COMPRESSION
XAVC S: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, XAVC HS: MPEG-H HEVC/H.265
AUDIO RECORDING FORMAT
LPCM 2ch (48 kHz 16 bit), LPCM 2ch (48 kHz 24 bit), LPCM 4ch (48 kHz 24 bit)

Recording System (movie)

MOVIE RECORDING FORMAT (XAVC HS 8K)
7680 x 4320 (4:2:0, 10bit) (Approx.): 29.97p (400 Mbps/200 Mbps), 25p (400 Mbps/200 Mbps), 23.98p (400 Mbps/200 Mbps), 7680 x 4320 (4:2:2, 10bit) (Approx.): 29.94p (520 Mbps/260 Mbps), 25p (520 Mbps/260 Mbps), 23.98p (520 Mbps/260 Mbps)
MOVIE RECORDING FORMAT (XAVC HS 4K)
3840 x 2160 (4:2:0, 10 bit) (Approx.): 119.88p (200 Mbps), 100p (200 Mbps), 59.94p (150 Mbps/75 Mbps/45 Mbps), 50p (150 Mbps/75 Mbps/45 Mbps), 23.98p (100 Mbps/50 Mbps/30 Mbps), 3840 x 2160 (4:2:2, 10bit) (approx.): 119.88p (280 Mbps), 100p (280 Mbps), 59.94p (200 Mbps/100 Mbps), 50p (200 Mbps/100 Mbps), 23.98p (100 Mbps/50 Mbps)
MOVIE RECORDING FORMAT (XAVC S 4K)
3840 x 2160 (4:2:0, 8 bit) (Approx.): 119.88p (200 Mbps), 100p (200 Mbps), 59.94p (150 Mbps), 50p (150 Mbps), 29.97p (100 Mbps/60 Mbps), 25p (100 Mbps/60 Mbps), 23.98p (100 Mbps/60 Mbps), 3840 x 2160 (4:2:2, 10bit) (Approx.): 119.88p (280 Mbps), 100p (280 Mbps), 59.94p (200 Mbps), 50p (200 Mbps), 29.97p (140 Mbps), 25p (140 Mbps), 23.98p (100 Mbps)
MOVIE RECORDING FORMAT (XAVC S HD)
1920 x 1080 (4:2:0, 8bit) (Approx.): 119.88p (100 Mbps/60 Mbps), 100p (100 Mbps/60 Mbps), 59.94p (50 Mbps/25 Mbps), 50p (50 Mbps/25 Mbps), 29.97p (50 Mbps/16 Mbps), 25p (50 Mbps/16 Mbps), 23.98p (50 Mbps), 1920 x 1080 (4:2:2, 10bit) (approx.): 59.94p (50 Mbps), 50p (50 Mbps), 29.97p (50 Mbps), 25p (50 Mbps), 23.98p (50 Mbps)
MOVIE RECORDING FORMAT (XAVC S-I 4K)
3840 x 2160 (4:2:2, 10bit) (Approx.): 59.94p (600 Mbps), 50p (500 Mbps), 29.97p (300 Mbps), 25p (250 Mbps), 23.98p (240 Mbps)
MOVIE RECORDING FORMAT (XAVC S-I HD)
1920 x 1080 (4:2:2, 10bit) (Approx.): 59.94p (222 Mbps), 50p (185 Mbps), 29.97p (111 Mbps), 25p (93 Mbps), 23.98p (89 Mbps)

Movie Functions

SLOW AND QUICK MOTION (SHOOTING FRAME RATE)
Yes
PROXY RECORDING
Yes
TC/UB
Yes
RAW OUTPUT
Yes (HDMI)

Recording System

Memory Card Slot
SLOT1: Multi slot for SD (UHS-I/II compliant) memory card / CFexpress Type A card, SLOT2: Multi slot for SD (UHS-I/II compliant) memory card / CFexpress Type A card

Focus System

FOCUS TYPE
Fast Hybrid AF (phase-detection AF / contrast-detection AF)
FOCUS POINT
Still images: Max. 759 points (phase-detection AF), Movies: Max. 627 points (phase-detection AF)
FOCUS SENSITIVITY RANGE
EV-4 to EV20 (ISO 100 equivalent with F2.0 lens attached in AF-S)
RECOGNITION TARGET (STILL IMAGES)
Auto, Human, Animal, Bird, Insect, Car, Train, Airplane
RECOGNITION TARGET (MOVIES)
Auto, Human, Animal, Bird, Insect, Car, Train, Airplane
Other features
AF Level for Crossing (Still), AF Track for Speed Change (Still), AF Subj. Shift Sensitivity (Movie), AF Transition Speed (Movie), Switch V/H AF Area, AF Area Regist., Circ. of Focus Point, Focus Map (Movie), AF Assist (Movie)
AF ILLUMINATOR
Yes (with Built-in LED type)

Exposure Control

METERING TYPE
1200-zone evaluative metering
METERING SENSITIVITY
EV-3 to EV20 (ISO100 equivalent with F2.0 lens attached)
EXPOSURE COMPENSATION
+/- 5.0 EV (1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps selectable)
ISO SENSITIVITY
Still images: ISO 100–32000 (expandable to ISO 50–102400), AUTO (ISO 100–12800, selectable lower limit and upper limit), Movies: ISO 100–32000 equivalent, AUTO (ISO 100–12800, selectable lower limit and upper limit)
ANTI-FLICKER SHOOT.
Yes

Viewfinder

TYPE
1.6 cm (0.64 type) electronic viewfinder (Quad-XGA OLED)
Number of Dots
9 437 184 dots
Magnification
Approx. 0.90x (with 50 mm lens at infinity, –1 mstyle name=“sup”–1/style)
DIOPTRE
–4.0 to +3.0 m-1
Eye Point
Approx. 25 mm from the eyepiece lens, 21 mm from the eyepiece frame at –1 mstyle name=“sup”–1/style (CIPA standard)
Finder Frame Rate Selection
NTSC mode: STD 60fps / HI 120fps / HIGHER 240fps, PAL mode: STD 50fps / HI 100fps / HIGHER 200fps

LCD Screen

Monitor Type
8.0 cm (3.2-type) type TFT
TOUCH PANEL
Yes
Number of Dots
2,095,104 dots
Adjustable Angle
Opening Angles (approx.): Up 98 °, down 40 °, side 180 °, rotation 270 °

Other Features

Other features
Soft Skin Effect, Creative Look, Custom function, Picture Profile, Time-lapse, Auto Framing, Pre-Capture, Continuous Shooting Speed Boost, NR Shooting, Framing Stabilizer
CLEAR IMAGE ZOOM (STILL IMAGES)
Approx. 2x
CLEAR IMAGE ZOOM (MOVIES)
Approx. 1.5x (4K), Approx. 2x (HD)

Shutter

Shutter Type
Auto / Mechanical shutter / Electronic shutter
Shutter Speed
Still images (Electronic shutter): 1/32000 to 30 s, Still images (Mechanical shutter): 1/8000 to 30 s, Bulb, Movies: 1/8000 to 1 s
Flash Sync. Speed
1/400 s (35-mm full frame), 1/500 s (APS-C)
Electronic Front Curtain Shutter
Yes

Image Stabilization

Type
Image sensor-shift mechanism with five-axis compensation (compensation depends on lens specifications)
Compensation Effect
Centre 8.5 stops and Periphery 7.0 stops (based on CIPA2024 standard. Pitch/Yaw/Roll compensation. With FE 50 mm F1.2 GM lens mounted. Long exposure NR off.)
MODE
Still images: On/Off, Movie: Dynamic active/Active/Standard/Off

Flash

TYPE
-
CONTROL
Pre-flash TTL
FLASH COMPENSATION
+/- 3.0 EV (switchable between 1/3 and 1/2 EV steps)
EXTERNAL FLASH COMPATIBILITY
Sony α System Flash compatible with Multi Interface Shoe, attach the shoe adaptor for flash compatible with Auto-lock accessory shoe

Drive

Continuous Drive Speed (approx. max.)
AUTO/Electronic shutter: Hi+: 30fps, Mechanical shutter: Hi+: 10fps
NO. OF FRAME RECORDABLE (APPROX.)
JPEG Extra fine L: 190 frames, JPEG Fine L: 400 frames, JPEG Extra fine L: 400 frames, RAW: 240 frames, RAW & JPEG: 200 frames, RAW (Uncompressed): 84 frames, RAW (Uncompressed) & JPEG: 80 frames, RAW (Lossless Compressed): 100 frames, RAW (Lossless Compressed) & JPEG: 86 frames
Pixel Shift Multi Shooting
Yes (4 shots / 16 shots)

Playback

MODES
Enlarged display mode, Protect, Rating, Shot Mark (Movie), Divider Frame, Crop, Photo Capture

Accessibility

FUNCTIONS
Screen Reader, Focus Magnifier, Focus Map (Movie), Peaking Display, Subject Recognition in AF, Touch Focus, Touch Tracking, Touch Shutter, Touch AE, Multi-angle LCD screen, Custom function, Enlarge Menu Screen

Interface

PC INTERFACE
Mass-storage / MTP
MULTI/MICRO USB TERMINAL
Yes
USB TYPE-C TERMINAL
Yes (SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps (USB 3.2) compatible)
NFC
-
Sync Terminal
Yes
WIRELESS LAN (BUILT-IN)
Yes (Wi-Fi Compatible, IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 GHz band/5 GHz band))
Bluetooth
Yes (Bluetooth Standard Ver. 5.0 (2.4 GHz band))
HDMI OUTPUT
HDMI connector (Type-A), 3840 x 2160 (59.94p / 50p / 29.97p / 25p / 23.98p) / 1920 x 1080 (59.94p / 50p / 23.98p) / 1920 x 1080 (59.94i / 50i), YCbCr 4:2:2 10 bit / RGB 8 bit, 7680 x 4320 (29.97p / 25p / 23.98p), YCbCr 4:2:0 8 bit / RGB 8 Bit, 4332x2446 (59.94p / 50p / 29.97p / 25p / 23.98p), Raw 16 bit
Multi Interface Shoe
Yes (with Digital Audio Interface)
Mic Terminal
Yes (3.5 mm Stereo minijack)
Headphone Terminal
Yes (3.5 mm Stereo minijack)
REMOTE CONTROL (WIRELESS)
Yes (Bluetooth remote control)
LAN Terminal
Yes (2.5GBASE-T, 1000BASE-T, 100BASE-TX)
FUNCTIONS
FTP Transfer Func. (Wired LAN, USB Tethering, Wi-Fi), Send to smartphone, Remote control via smartphone, PC Remote

USB Streaming

VIDEO DATA FORMAT
MJPEG, YUV420
VIDEO RESOLUTION
3840 x 2160 (15p/30p), 3840 x 2160 (12.5p/25p), 1920 x 1080 (30p/60p), 1920 x 1080 (25p/50p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 1280 x 720 (25p)
AUDIO DATA FORMAT
LPCM 2ch (16 bit 48 kHz)

Network streaming

VIDEO DATA FORMAT
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, MPEG-H HEVC/H.265
VIDEO RESOLUTION
3840 x 2160 (30p), 3840 x 2160 (25p), 2560 x 1440 (30p), 2560 x 1440 (25p), 1920 x 1080 (30p/60p), 1920 x 1080 (25p/50p), 1280 x 720 (30p/60p), 1280 x 720 (25p/50p)
AUDIO DATA FORMAT
AAC-LC 2ch (16bit 48 kHz)
PROTOCOL
RTMP, RTMPS, SRT

Audio

Microphone
Built-in: stereo, Built-in: voice memo
Speaker
Built-in: monaural

Lens Compensation

SETTING
Shading, Chromatic Aberration, Distortion, Breathing (Movie)

Power

SUPPLIED BATTERY
One rechargeable battery pack NP-FZ100
Battery Life (Still Images)
Approx. 420 shots (Viewfinder) / Approx. 520 shots (LCD monitor) (CIPA standard)
Battery Life (Movie, actual recording)
Approx. 85 min (Viewfinder) / Approx. 90 min (LCD monitor) (CIPA standard)
Battery Life (Movie, continuous recording)
Approx. 140 min (Viewfinder) / Approx. 150 min (LCD monitor) (CIPA standard)
Internal Battery Charge
Yes (Available with USB Type-C Terminal. USB Power Delivery support)
USB POWER SUPPLY
Yes (Available with USB Type-C Terminal. USB Power Delivery support)
Power consumption with Viewfinder
Still images: Approx. 4.7 W (with FE 28–70 mm F3.5–5.6 OSS lens attached), Movies: Approx. 7.0 W (with FE 28–70 mm F3.5–5.6 OSS lens attached)
Power consumption with LCD screen
Still images: Approx. 3.8 W (with FE 28–70 mm F3.5–5.6 OSS lens attached), Movies: Approx. 6.6 W (with FE 28–70 mm F3.5–5.6 OSS lens attached)

Size and Weight

WEIGHT (WITH BATTERY AND MEMORY CARD INCLUDED)
Approx. 1 lb 10.3 oz (Approx. 743 g)
BODY ONLY
Approx. 1 lb 7.3 oz (Approx. 658 g)
Dimensions (W x H x D)
Approx. 5 3/8 x 3 7/8 x 3 3/8 in, Approx. 5 3/8 x 3 7/8 x 2 7/8 in (from grip to monitor) (Approx. 136.1 x 96.9 x 82.9 mm, Approx. 136.1 x 96.9 x 72.8 mm [from grip to monitor])

Operating temparature

OPERATING TEMPERATURE
32–104 °F / 0–40 °C

Supplied Accessory

WHAT’S IN THE BOX
Rechargeable Battery NP-FZ100, Battery Charger BC-ZD1, Cable Protector, Shoulder strap, Body cap, Accessory shoe cap, Eyepiece cup (FDA-EP19), Eyepiece cup (FDA-EP21)

Features

Illustration of Exmor RS™ image sensor, Bionz XR™ image processing engine and AI processing unit

A fusion of leading technologies delivers overwhelming performance

The massive volume of data from the 50.1 megapixel full-frame Exmor RS™ image sensor is processed in real time by Sony’s BIONZ XR™ image processing engine. An advanced AI processing unit applies high-level subject recognition to reliably recognize a wide range of subjects. These state-of-the-art technologies make it easy to capture even the most challenging subjects in extraordinary resolution, with blackout-free viewing and full AF/AE tracking at up to 30fps.

Example image showing a woman walking on sand, with human pose estimation recognizing her head and body

An advanced AI processing unit achieves high-level subject recognition

The α1 II features a dedicated AI processing unit that helps to recognize people more accurately based on human pose estimation, and also supports recognition of a wide range of subjects other than people, such as animals, vehicles and insects, with high accuracy. This results in a dramatic improvement in Real-time Recognition AF and Real-time Tracking capability, and higher overall AF performance.

Example image showing three women jumping over the hurdle

Human eye recognition improved by up to approximately 30%

Real-time Recognition AF has improved human eye recognition by approximately 30%, and its human pose estimation technology also delivers precise recognition of subjects facing away from the camera, wearing sunglasses, or with the face obscured. Recognition of distant human subjects occupying only a small part of the frame has been notably improved, so approaching subjects are recognized and tracked sooner. Subjects can also be tracked better across occlusions among many people.

Example images of a leopard, bird, airplane, car, train and butterfly

A wide variety of subjects accurately recognized

A wider variety of subjects is now recognized for stills and movies, with a new [Auto] mode letting the camera select. Recognition of animals overall is improved by approximately 30%, with eyes of some small animals added, and the eyes, heads and faces of animals like dogs and cats recognized. Recognition of birds is improved by 50%.

Example image showing a man trying to shoot the ball in a water polo game while another man in front defends by reaching out a hand, but focus is maintained on the man at the back

Reliable Real-time Tracking

The α1 II features AI-based Real-time Tracking. If the subject cannot be recognized for some reason, or subject recognition AF is not turned ON, Sony’s original subject recognition algorithm will process colour, pattern, and spatial data to ensure that the subject is reliably acquired and tracked. If [Touch Tracking] is engaged, touching a subject on the monitor will instantly select it for tracking.

Illustration showing 759 AF phase detection points distributed densely across most of the image sensor

AF tracking response settable to match subject speed changes

Fast Hybrid AF combines phase detection and contrast detection for superb speed, precision and tracking performance. 759 phase-detection points cover 92% of the image sensor. The AF tracking response for stills can now be selected from [Stable], [Standard], and [Responsive] to suit the likely subject motion, useful for example in bird photography. High AF precision is achieved right down to light levels as low as EV-4.0 in AF-S mode, with improved contrast AF response. 

Example image of a small yellow bird seen though branches

Flexible focus area settings

XL and XS focus area spot sizes are now available in addition to the existing L, M, and S. XS can be useful to avoid focusing on foreground objects such as branches. It is also possible to create a custom focus area of specified size and aspect ratio, useful in situations like a track event where athletes are lined up side-by-side and you want to focus on the leading runner.

Example image showing a man about to shoot the ball in a water polo game, with one of several continuously shot stills at 30fps highlighted as the best shot

High-speed continuous shooting at full 50.1 MP resolution

High-speed continuous shooting at up to 30fps with full AF/AE tracking is possible at a stunning 50.1 MP resolution, with up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second on the data from the image sensor. Blackout-free shooting with no loss of viewfinder image allows seamless framing and capture of the subject as if viewed with the naked eye.

Example image showing the moment that a bird takes flight from a branch

Pre-Capture and Continuous Shooting Speed Boost

Pre-capture retroactively captures moments that occurred before the shutter was released, without compromising resolution, even when shooting continuously at up to 30fps with selectable recording time options. Continuous Shooting Speed Boost can temporarily change the burst speed. Both features reduce the chance of missing that vital instant.

Usage image showing a man shooting at a large indoor swimming pool

Enhanced high-resolution burst stamina

A large buffer memory and increased overall system speed allow continuous shooting at full resolution. Up to 159 JPEG images or 153 compressed RAW images can be captured in one continuous 30fps burst. Up to 400 JPEG images can be captured in one 20fps burst. This can be a huge confidence-booster when timing is critical for sports, wildlife, and other moving subjects.

Product image showing “Release Lag/Start Disp.” camera menu with “Auto/Off” selected

Selectable release time lag

Selectable release time lag modes are available via the [Release Lag] / [Start Display] menu. With blackout occurring on only the first image in a continuous burst, [Fastest Release/On] provides the shortest possible release time lag, while [Stable Release/On] minimizes variations in release time lag making it easier to release the shutter at the intended moment. The default [Auto/Off] setting gives no blackout when shooting is started.

Example image showing a close-up portrait of a woman’s face with makeup

Stunning resolution with 50.1 megapixels

Sony’s extensive high-performance G Master line work with the 50.1 megapixel Exmor RS image sensor and BIONZ XR image processing engine to create deep, lifelike, high-resolution rendering. The sensor’s high pixel count means that resolution is still a very impressive 21 megapixels when shooting in APS-C mode or cropping to APS-C size after shooting.

Product image showing “RAW file type” camera menu with “Lossless Comp (M)” selected

Selectable RAW image size and quality

Compressed, Uncompressed, and high-compression Lossless Compressed RAW still images are provided. Compressed RAW images can be shot continuously at up to 30fps. Three Lossless Compressed RAW image sizes can be selected to suit the application: L, M, and S. Lossless Compressed RAW, JPEG, and HEIF images in M and S size have the same number of pixels whether shot in the full-frame or APS-C mode, making it possible to seamlessly switch modes while maintaining the same image resolution. JPEG and RAW sizes can be freely mixed and matched to meet the needs of the application.

Example images showing a woman in a handball game. Left: taken with α1; right: taken with α1 II, comparing noise reduction at mid-to-high ISO sensitivity

High sensitivity, low noise, and wide dynamic range

Feedback from professionals has been taken into account to create noise reduction that is highly effective without sacrificing image detail, so users can shoot clear images of indoor sports at mid-to-high sensitivity without hesitation. Dynamic range at lower sensitivities is an impressively wide 15 stops for smooth, realistic gradations.  [1] α1, ISO 6400, 1/1600s, F2.8 [2] α1 II, ISO 6400, 1/1600s, F2.8

Example image showing a man standing near the sailing yacht

Consistently accurate exposure and colour

Exposure and colour reproduction are notably improved compared to the α1. The AE algorithm detects faces and optimizes exposure for stills and movies. Exposure stability has been improved by approximately 20%, even when the face is backlit and dark, or over-illuminated in direct sunlight, or not facing the camera. Working with a “Visible Light and IR Sensor” on the front of the body, the advanced AI processing unit helps to achieve accurate white balance even where the subject is in shade.

Illustration of image stabilization unit in camera body with three rotation axes shown in red

Optical five-axis image stabilization achieves 8.5-step performance at the centre

A high-precision image stabilization unit, advanced gyro sensors, and leading-edge algorithms detect and correct camera shake, achieving a groundbreaking up to 8.5-step effect at the centre and 7.0-step at the periphery, and transforming handheld shooting with precision down to the single-pixel level and the finest subject details. With compatible lenses that include built-in stabilization, improved body-lens synchronization provides effective blur control even at otherwise problematic telephoto focal lengths. [1] Yaw [2] Roll [3] Pitch

Example images of a woman posing in a low-light environment. Left: single RAW image; right: Composite RAW mode illustrating lower noise and high resolution

Composite RAW modes for lower noise and higher resolution

The NR Shooting Settings mode captures between 4 and 32 RAW images which can then be composited using Sony’s Imaging Edge Desktop™ application to create a full-resolution image with very low noise even at mid-to-high sensitivities. Pixel Shift Multi Shooting captures four or 16 pixel-shifted images that are later composited with the same PC application to achieve overwhelming resolution in a single image.  [1] Single RAW image, ISO 12800 [2] NR composite RAW (32 images), ISO 12800

Example image showing a bird on a branch looking toward the camera

Real-time Recognition AF for movies

Real-time Recognition AF utilizes advanced AI-based human pose estimation technology that recognizes and tracks not just eyes, but body and head position for human subjects with high precision. The range of subjects recognized with AI assistance, for both movies and stills, has been expanded relative to the α1, and now includes birds in movies for example. Other subjects are acquired and tracked in real time by processing colour, pattern, and spatial data.

Illustration of image oversampling from 8k to 4k with cropping

High-resolution 8K/4K recording for impressive realism

4K (3840 x 2160) movies can be cropped and edited from 8K source footage with overwhelming resolution from 8.6K oversampling. 8K 4:2:2 10-bit XAVC HS recording with optional Full HD proxy is available, as are 4K recording in XAVC HS, S, or S-I formats in full-frame, or Super 35-mm size oversampled from 5.8K with full pixel readout and no pixel binning. XAVC S-I allows recording at up to 600 Mbps for outstanding image quality.

Example image showing woman in period costume with coastline in background

High-frame-rate recording at up to 120p

4K can be recorded at up to 120p right in the camera. 4K footage can be played back in up to 5x slow motion. The Slow & Quick Motion (S&Q) mode makes it convenient to play recorded footage back at slow or high speed in the camera. Full HD footage recorded at 240fps offers even greater range: up to 10x slow motion (24p) to create impressive sports movies, for example. The frame rate setup menu allows intuitive selection of frame rates.

Example image showing outdoor portrait of woman with low contrast in the left half of the image and higher contrast in the right half

Better S-Log matching with Cinema Line cameras

The S-Log3 gamma curve emphasizes gradation characteristics from shadows to mid-grey (18% grey). Minimum ISO when shooting S-Log is 800, while the expanded ISO range is 200–640. Compared to the α1, detail reproduction has been improved and footage can be more easily matched with the output from digital cinema cameras that also offer S-Log3 such as Sony’s VENICE and BURANO. The ability to import User LUTs into the camera makes it easy to get an idea of the final post-edit look right in the camera.

Usage image showing a woman with handheld camera shooting another woman in period costume with coastline in background

Dynamic active Mode stabilization

In addition to standard mode, Active Mode combines a precision image stabilization unit and gyro sensor, while Dynamic active Mode adds electronic stabilization for an additional approximately 30% effect, enabling stable recording even when the user is jogging.

Example image showing four athletes at the start of a women’s hurdle race with focus on the third nearest athlete

Breathing compensation

Focus breathing compensation effectively reduces focus breathing when shooting movies. Sony’s original Clear Image Zoom technology is used to automatically maintain a consistent angle of view throughout focus changes for more stable images. Breathing metadata can also be used with the advanced breathing compensation capabilities of the latest Catalyst Browse/Catalyst Prepare/Catalyst Prepare Plugin software application during post production.

Product image showing “Focus” camera menu with “AF/MF” selected

Features for smooth focusing

A range of focusing tools support intuitive and professional movie making. AF Assist for temporary switching to manual focus, focus peaking display, and AF transition speed and sensitivity settings all help the user when shooting movies. Focus Map overlays a visual depth-of-field map on the live view display. Real-time Recognition AF, Real-time Tracking, and Focus Area are now available during digital zoom and Clear Image Zoom operation.

Usage image showing the camera mounted on a tripod, shooting a woman

Auto Framing automatically adjusts composition for the subject

Using AI-based subject recognition technology, Auto Framing automatically crops the frame to keep the subject in a prominent position when shooting movies. The framing is continually adjusted so that the recorded footage looks like the subject was being followed by an experienced camera operator. The timing at which Auto Framing begins, the size of the subject in the frame, and the tracking speed can be controlled. Auto Framing can be ideal for recording interviews, music performance, cooking, and much more.

Product image showing “Image Stabilization” camera menu with “Framing Stabilizer” selected

Framing Stabilizer automatically maintains subject position

Framing Stabilizer automatically maintains subject location within the frame when the camera operator is moving alongside the subject or in other situations where maintaining consistent framing can be difficult. AI-based subject recognition and Dynamic active image stabilization maintain the composition and achieve stable imagery even when shooting handheld. [Centre] mode automatically keeps the subject in the centre of the frame, while [Manual] mode lets subject position be freely specified.

Product images showing the horizontal and vertical movement range of the LCD monitor

Flexible LCD monitor positioning

The 4-axis multi-angle monitor can be positioned for optimal viewing in horizontal or vertical orientation. The extended monitor can be tilted upward by approximately 98 ° and downward by approximately 40 ° to the camera back, and sideways by a full 180 °. The hinge is unobtrusive but robust. The large 3.2 type 2.1 million dot display panel is touch sensitive, has a wide colour gamut, and is designed for clear outdoor viewing.

Illustration showing exploded view of viewfinder

High-performance electronic viewfinder

A 9.44 million-dot (approx.) electronic viewfinder with high-definition OLED display and refined optics delivers clear viewing. Magnification is 0.90x with a 41 ° FOV for a clear, wide view, the updated structure giving a 25 mm high eyepoint. Time lag has been reduced for more stable framing. The finder frame rate for shooting stills can be set to [Standard] (60fps), [High] (120fps), or [Higher] (240fps). Overall image quality has been significantly improved and aberration minimized.

Product image showing the two different eyepiece caps

Standard and deep viewfinder eyecups provided

The α1 II is supplied with two viewfinder eyecups: the standard FDA-EP19 type and a deep FDA-EP21 type that the user can choose according to ambient conditions or personal preference. The new FPA-EP21 design is deeper than the standard FDA-EP19 type, enhancing viewing clarity by effectively blocking extraneous light that can enter between the eye and eyecup in bright shooting environments. The soft, close-fitting material and design enhance viewing comfort.

Product images of the camera from grip side and from rear with an attached VG-C5 vertical grip housing two batteries

Advanced grip hold and ease of use

The improved grip ergonomics ensure comfortable and stable shooting over long sessions with a shape that allows firm holding in the palm of the hand. A C5 custom button has also been added, and the grip design is replicated for prolonged vertical shooting with the optional VG-C5 Vertical Grip, which additionally offers extended battery life over the previous model.

Product images of the BC-ZD1 near the camera

Supplied charger charges two NP-FZ100 batteries in 155 minutes

The supplied BC-ZD1 quick charger can simultaneously charge two NP-FZ100 batteries in approximately 155 minutes. when used with an AC adapter providing USB PD (Power Delivery) power. This charger is ideal for charging two batteries for use at events or in other applications that require continuous operation over extended periods of time.

Product image showing dual media slots with memory cards

Dual slots support CFexpress Type A memory cards

The α1 II has two media slots that both support CFexpress Type A memory cards as well as UHS-I and UHS-II SD cards. CFexpress Type A cards are ideal for recording the huge volume of data produced by the image sensor, allowing 30fps continuous still shooting and high-bitrate 8K and 4K movie recording. The same data can be simultaneously recorded to both cards, or files can be separated by type and size. A “relay” mode automatically switches recording to the second card when the first becomes full.

Product image showing “Top Image” camera menu with “Rating” selected

Image playback functions that support immediate-delivery workflows

Multiple media playback lets you seamlessly display all images on two memory cards by selecting all slots as the display target during playback. Group display of images such as those shot continuously or with interval shooting is also supported. And if set in advance, a rating can automatically be applied to the first image in continuous burst or Pre-Capture groups, or a divider image inserted before the first image in groups, enabling quick scrolling through and location of groups using the custom dial during playback.

Example image of a man shooting ball in water polo game with “Recording Voice Memo” status bar displayed

Dedicated microphone for clear voice memos

A dedicated voice memo microphone is built into the rear panel, making it easy to record clear voice memos even in noisy environments. These can be transferred to an FTP server along with the corresponding images, allowing the photographer to communicate effectively to the editor, or the Transfer & Tagging mobile application can be used to convert the voice memos to text prior to transfer. Either approach can significantly speed up the delivery workflow.

Illustration of IPTC metadata workflow

IPTC metadata embedding and presets

IPTC (International Press Telecommunications Council) metadata can be added to still images. IPTC information can be written to IPTC metadata presets and loaded into the camera via a memory card. The α1 II can internally store up to 20 presets that can then be quickly selected when needed. This can be extremely useful at multi-sports events, for example, where different IPTC information is required for different competitions. The appropriate preset can be easily selected in-camera.

Usage image of the camera mounted on a tripod and connected to LAN cable, shooting water polo game with live view image displayed on LCD monitor

Efficient data transfer by high-speed wired LAN and wireless LAN

Still image and movie files can be directly transferred from the camera to a specified remote FTP server via wired and wireless LAN. 2.5GBASE-T wired LAN connectivity allowing data transfer at up to 2.5 Gbps is now provided for stable, high-speed transfer of still and movie data from the camera to an FTP server and stable communication for PC Remote shooting. Built-in Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac) with 2x2 MIMO support allows high-speed 5 GHz wireless communication with maximum speed and stability for news and sports shooters who need to deliver immediately via FTP, as well as for studio environments.

Product images showing expanded view of USB terminal area

USB Type-C ® connector supports SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps (USB 3.2)

A USB Type-C ® connector that supports fast SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps (USB 3.2) data transfer is provided. This makes high-speed PC Remote (tethered) data transfer available for smooth handling of large image files.

Usage image of a man shooting with a camera connected to PDT-FP1

Tools that support professional workflow

The α1 II is compatible with Transfer & Tagging and Remote Camera Tools. Transfer & Tagging is a smartphone application that can speed up still-image workflows for professional sports and news photographers, allowing background FTP transfers to smartphone as well as fast tag/caption attachment, while Remote Camera Tool is a software application that allows PC Remote (tethered) shooting via wired LAN.

Creators’ Cloud logo

Creators’ Cloud platform

Creators’ Cloud is a platform that supports creative work from shooting to production by combining Sony’s advanced camera technology and the cloud. It’s also a place for discovery and collaboration with other creators around the world. Explore web, mobile, and PC-based apps providing efficient solutions that integrate cameras with shooting and production apps and services.

Picture of α1 II flagship for professionals

Sony’s goal: zero environmental footprint

Sony’s environmental plan ‘Road to Zero’ is designed to reduce the Group’s environmental footprint to zero by 2050. Avoiding non-renewable resources, we actively use recycled plastics in cameras, including our durable, high-quality SORPLAS™ material. Sony is also moving away from plastic packaging. The α1 II is the first high-end α-series product to be shipped in a plastic-free package made of Sony’s “Original Blended Material” that can be recycled as paper.

Product image showing “Setup” camera menu with “Accessibility” selected

Greater accessibility for all users

Accessibility features such as Screen Reader that reads menu screen text aloud, Enlarged Menu Display, and others make it easier for everyone to enjoy shooting and playback using the α1 II. Furthermore, advanced features like AI-based Real-time Recognition AF for a wide range of subjects, intuitive touch operation for subject tracking, and many more make the joys of photography and moviemaking available to the widest possible range of users.