Sony Officially Announces the A7s – A 4K

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Sony Officially Announces the A7s – A 4K Powerhouse That Shines in Low Light

By Manuel A. Calle · On April 6, 2014

Sony’s ear has never been closer to their consumers needs, proving they are willing to take riskier chances with camera releases when compared to the likes of Nikon and Canon. Take the Alpha A7 and A7r for instance; the first true full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras were a product the market cried out for, but until Sony, no one had thought to deliver on.
Adding to their aforementioned and newly found pedigree, Sony today announced their first 4k-capable camera built on the Alpha A7 foundation, featuring incredible low-light capabilities and the features budget-centric movie makers have always wanted in a pint-sized package.
The A7s’ highlights, announced on stage at this year’s NAB show, are as follows:

• Wide ISO sensitivity setting[1] from 50 to 409600 and unprecedented dynamic range
• World’s first full-frame sensor capable of full pixel read-out without pixel binning process for movie and 4K (QFHD: 3840 x 2160) HDMI video output
• Professional video functions including XAVC S Full HD recording at 50Mbps, time code and optional XLR audio inputs
• High ISO sensitivity range allows faster shutter speeds during low light shooting
• ± Mount System compatible with a wide range of high quality lenses, including power zoom lens ideal for movie shooting
• Improved Fast Intelligent AF performance in light as low as EV-4
• Ultra compact, light-weight body for comfortable pro-style operation

The new Alpha A7s’ price has yet to be announced, but Sony did mention that it will be available at retailers this “Summer.”
More information can be found in the press release below:

Press Release
SAN DIEGO, April 6, 2014 – Joining the acclaimed ±7 and ±7R family of the world’s smallest full-frame interchangeable lens cameras1, Sony’s new ±7S model puts extraordinary sensitivity, low noise and spectacular 4K video quality into the hands of professional photographers and videographers.
The innovative ±7S camera features a newly developed, 12.2 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor® CMOS sensor paired with a powerful BIONZ X image processor, allowing it to shoot at a sensitivity range of ISO 50 – 4096002 with unprecedented dynamic range and low noise.
The new model is also the world’s first camera to utilize the entire width of a full-frame image sensor in 4K video acquisition, and does this without cropping or line skipping as it can read and process data from every one of the sensor’s pixels. This allows 4K video shooters to utilize all of the artistic and creative benefits provided by the unique sensor.
“The ±7S gives Sony the most complete, versatile lineup of full-frame cameras in market today,” said Neal Manowitz, director of the interchangeable lens camera business at Sony Electronics. “Between the ±99, VG900, RX1, ±7, ±7R and now ±7S models, we have completely revolutionized what it means to be a ‘full-frame’ camera, bringing a new level of quality and portability to enthusiast photographers and videographers.”
Wide ISO Sensitivity (ISO 50 – 409,6002) and Impressive Dynamic Range
Sony, the world’s largest manufacturer of image sensors, has developed a unique 12.2 MP sensor with extraordinary sensitivity that allows the ±7S camera to collect dramatically more light than traditional cameras and to produce beautifully detailed, low-noise images in even the darkest environments.
The camera also features a newly developed on-sensor technology that allows it to optimize the dynamic range throughout the entirety of the ISO50 – 409,600 sensitivity range. This on-sensor technology also broadens the range of tonal gradation in bright environments and minimizes noise in dark scenes, allowing the camera to deliver impressive results in these extreme conditions where other cameras (and image sensors) typically struggle.
World’s First Full-Frame Camera with Full Pixel Read-out3 (without pixel binning) during Movie Shooting
With the new ±7S camera, the high-speed read out of the 35mm full-frame image sensor combined with the high-speed processing of the BIONZ X processor enables significant improvements in video quality.
These powerful components allow the camera to process data from all of the sensor’s pixels and output stunning HD and 4K (QFHD 3840 x 2160 pixels) video3 while utilizing the full-width of the sensor. In addition to the benefits for low-light shooting, the read out of all pixels frees the video from aliasing, moiré and false color artifacts (as opposed to pixel binning) to achieve the highest quality video.
Additional Pro-Quality Video Functions
In video mode, the ±7S can output 4K video4 at QFHD (3840×2160) to an optional external 3rd party 4K recorder, and can record full HD (1920×1080) at frame rates of 60p, 60i, 30p and 24p directly to a compatible memory card. Video modes can be changed from full-frame to APS-C (super 35mm equivalent) if desired, and in this crop mode, the camera can support high frame rate 120fps shooting at standard HD resolution (1280 x 720p), creating a 5x slow-motion effect.
The ±7S camera is also equipped with S-Log2 gamma. Common to Sony’s range of professional video cameras, S-Log2 expands the dynamic range by up to 1300% to minimize clipped highlights and loss of detail in shadows. Additionally, for the first time ever in a Sony ± camera, the ±7S adopts the workflow-friendly XAVC S recording format in addition to AVCHD and MP4 codecs. XAVC S format allows for full HD recording at a data rate of 50 mbps with lower compression for improved video quality.
Other specialist video functions on the new camera include a picture profile that can adjust settings like gamma, black, level and color adjustment, and can be saved for use in a multi-camera shoot. It also has Full HD and 4K base band HDMI® output, time code/user bit for easier editing, synchronous recording feature with compatible devices, various marker and zebra displays on both the LCD screen and viewfinder and can dual record XAVC S as well as MP4 (1280×720 @30p).
The camera also has a Multi-terminal interface shoe that is compatible with Sony’s XLR Adaptor Microphone Kits (XLR-K1M plus a new model under development), allowing the use of professional microphone systems.
Low-light Shooting Advantages
The high ISO sensitivity range of the ±7S camera is extremely effective for still image shooting, especially in low-light conditions, where the camera can shoot at high shutter speeds while keeping noise as low as possible. This is particularly useful for shooting indoor, dimly lit sporting events or other situations where most cameras typically struggle.
The camera is also equipped with the same high-precision Fast Intelligent AF system as the ±7R camera, with drastically improved low-light AF sensitivity that can go as low as -4EV.
Expanding ± Mount System and New Power Zoom Lens for Movie Shooting
Directly compatible with the growing family of E-mount lenses, the ±7S camera can also be used with A-mount and others lens systems with optional adapters. Sony’s complete ± lens system now includes 54 total lenses for both A and E mounts, including several premium offerings from Carl Zeiss® and G Series Lenses.
As a whole, Sony’s E-mount lens system is particularly well-suited for video shooting, with a variety of models containing “movie-friendly” features like smooth focusing, powered zoom control, and silent iris/aperture control. Building on this, Sony has announced development of a brand new, full-frame power zoom 28-135mm F4 lens E-mount lens that is an ideal match for the powerful movie capabilities of the ±7S model.
Pricing and availability of the ±7S full-frame interchangeable lens camera will be announced at a future date. To learn more about the product in the meantime, please visit Sony Online Store - Buy Laptops, Ultrabooks, Tablets, LED TVs, Digital Cameras and more - Sony US, and follow #SonyAlpha on twitter for the latest ± camera news.

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XF200 + XF205: two new 50Mbit/s HD cameras from Canon

Written by RedShark News Staff


XF200 + XF205 XF200 + XF205 Canon/RedShark

Just before the start of NAB, Canon's announced two broadcast-quality HD cameras with a wider zoom range and 50 Mbit/s recording: the XF200 and the XF205

Clearly closely related to Canon's XF105 and XF100 cameras, Canon says it has taken onboard feedback from customers when designing these new cameras. With a built-in 26.8mm wide-angle lens, there's an optical 20x zoom that is double the range of the new camera's prececessors.

50Mbit/s is pretty much the accepted standard now for Long GOP broadcast quality and both of these cameras now support this bitrage. They also sport a DIGIC DV 4 processor and 4:2:2 colour sampling.

There's a better viewfinder, a 3.5 inch OLED display, and a new rotating grip which helps with control and stability.

What's the difference between the cameras?

The XF205 has additional 3G-SDI/HD-SDI, Timecode and Genlock connectors.


Here's Canon's press release in full

Canon today expands its professional video range with the launch of the XF205 and XF200 - a duo of compact video cameras that deliver powerful features, professional functionality and high levels of image quality for a wide range of camera operators.

Building on the blueprint of Canon’s highly successful XF105 and XF100 cameras, the new models have been enhanced to reflect feedback received from professionals working in a variety of fields. Further extending the XF range, both offer even greater versatility, with a more powerful Canon HD Video System, numerous recording modes, wireless connectivity and an enhanced operational design – providing operators with greater freedom to shoot, view and distribute their footage during assignments.

Designed for versatility

The new cameras have been designed to enable users to achieve more than ever with a compact camcorder. By combining outstanding image quality and new professional features, they deliver flexibility that allows camera operators to take their work to the next level.

Both models are powered by the Canon HD Video System and include significant enhancements. Each features a 26.8mm wide-angle Canon HD lens with an optical zoom that has been doubled to 20x, and works alongside Canon’s latest HD CMOS PRO imaging sensor and a powerful DIGIC DV 4 processor. Combined with 50Mbps MPEG recording and 4:2:2 colour sampling, the result is video quality suitable for broadcast, with high sensitivity and wide dynamic range that delivers excellent results, even in low light situations.

Optimised for professionals; accessible to all

The XF205 and XF200 have been designed to support the growing and diverse requirements of camera operators – enabling them to shoot for numerous platforms at once. A range of recording options provide the flexibility to simultaneously record high definition MXF files to CF cards and MP4 files to an SD card, in HD or lower resolutions – ideal for capturing footage intended for both broadcast and web channels.

The cameras’ design has been optimised to offer operators a tool that is intuitive to use. The new rotating grip provides additional control and stability, reducing strain and offering greater comfort during longer shoots. Three individual lens rings for focus, zoom and iris provide a configuration that is familiar to experienced camera operators, allowing a much quicker response in dynamic shooting environments.

Significant enhancements have also been made to ensure easier framing and monitoring of shots. An optimised viewfinder features a resolution of 1.23m-dots, enabling much greater accuracy when checking focus. An upgraded 3.5-inch OLED display also offers higher contrast, more vivid colours and faster response times, making it far superior in operation, especially in bright conditions.

The XF205 and XF200 are also ideal tools for the less experienced operator. As well as offering the control and precision expected by professional users, an intuitive control layout, fully automatic shooting mode and variety of assist functions, including Face Detection, mean that even amateur users can capture great-looking footage.

Professional audio and connectivity

Upgraded audio capture also ensures professional quality sound fit for broadcast use. Both models support four-channel linear PCM recording, with two XLR inputs allowing the option to use professional-grade microphones. Additionally, with built-in stereo microphones and a 3.5mm microphone jack, the new cameras provide users with a wealth of audio options.

Each model also features Wi-Fi and Ethernet LAN connectivity, allowing direct or wireless connection to a wide range of devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops. Wireless connectivity offers the freedom to control the camera from a distance, view footage remotely and conveniently transfer files via FTP without the need for any additional software. In addition, a new CameraAccess function allows lower-quality proxy files to be streamed to another device via Wi-Fi, improving the speed in which content, such as news flashes, can be shared.

In addition, the XF205 expands connectivity options further with the inclusion of selectable 3G-SDI/HD-SDI, Timecode and Genlock terminals for easy integration on multi-camera shoots or with other broadcast equipment.

Kieran Magee, Director of Professional Marketing, Canon Europe said: “The new XF205 and XF200 are a natural next step in the evolution of our XF range, providing enhanced functionality, alongside another step up in terms of the quality of the visual and audio output. Historically, the versatility of our XF series cameras has seen them widely adopted by a range of different users, and the new features we’ve added into these products provide our customers with greater choice and creative freedom than previously available from such a compact camcorder.”

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Blackmagic's 4K URSA camera features massive 10-inch 1080p display, ships in June for $6,000

BY Zach Honig @zachhonig April 7th 2014, at 12:49:00 pm ET 27

Consumers may not be familiar with Blackmagic Design, but the firm's cameras are all the rage with filmmakers at NAB, drawing enormous crowds within seconds of the show floor opening up to attendees. This year's flagship is the URSA, a relatively massive 4K camera with an enormous 10-inch 1080p flip-out display. There are also two 5-inch monitors on each side, displaying everything from camera settings to a duplicate preview. Another highlight is the Super 35 image sensor (the same used in Blackmagic's existing 4K cam), which is upgradeable should you wish to swap in a refreshed version down the line. You also get plenty of SDI inputs and outputs, XLR mic jacks and either a Canon EF or PL lens mount.
Blackmagic URSA hands-on



We spent a few minutes shooting with the EF version with a Canon 85mm f/1.2 lens. The preview looked fantastic -- with such a large, high-res display, it's easy to confirm focus without enlarging, though you'll want to take extra care when capturing in 4K. There's definitely no shortage of readouts, with the secondary LCDs providing all the necessary info. The EF version will retail for $6,000, while the PL flavor is set to ship for $6,500 (though you can swap lens mounts later on if you upgrade the sensor module). Both models are expected in stores this June or July. Check 'em out in our hands-on video.

Sarah Silbert contributed to this report.

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Hollywood Camera Business Gets New Competitor in AJA
8:39 AM PDT 4/7/2014 by Carolyn Giardina

"It was a natural progression since we were effectively creating the back half of cameras already," AJA president Nick Rashby tells THR of the $9,000 4K Cion.
Cion Aja Camera - H 2014
AJA Video

LAS VEGAS—AJA Video is entering the camera business, just two years after its main competitor, Blackmagic Design, made the same move. Broadcast and postproduction technology maker AJA—widely known for converters and portable recorders—revealed that it is developing a $9,000 4K-capable camera, dubbed Cion, on Monday at the NAB Show.
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The camera—the first in what will be a camera line—is aimed at filmmakers, TV series and broadcast production. AJA president Nick Rashby told The Hollywood Reporter that he sees the Cion sitting in the midrange of the market, between high-end camera such as the Arri Alexa and Red Epic and low end DSLR and prosumer cameras, meaning he sees this as a competitor with cameras such as Sony’s F55 4K model.



According to AJA, the new camera incorporates a 4K APS-C sized CMOS sensor with an electronic global shutter, and offers 12-stops of dynamic range. It supports PL mount lenses, and in-camera ProRes recording. AJA said it can output AJA Raw via 3G-SDI at up to 4K 120 frames per second or via Thunderbolt at up to 4K 30 fps.

Asked why enter the market, Rashby told THR: “We started working on this almost five years ago after we did the Ki Pro (portable recorder). “We were so close—we had everything expect the sensor. It was a natural progression since we were effectively creating the back half of cameras already.”

Several production models are already being tested in the field, but AJA declined to name these collaborators. It's scheduled to ship this summer.