The next-generation Alpha 9 III captures all
decisive moments with up to 120 frames per second high-speed
shooting, distortion-free and blackout-free images, and flash sync
at all shooting speeds
SAN
DIEGO, Nov. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony
Electronics today introduced the Alpha 9 III camera equipped with
the world's firsti full-frame global shutter image
sensor.
The newly developed global shutter image sensor exposes and
reads all pixels simultaneously, unlike a rolling shutter sensor
that records images sequentially from the top row of pixels to the
bottom. The impressive global shutter full-frame image sensor
enables the camera to shoot at burst speeds up to 120 frames per
second with no rolling shutter distortion or camera blackout. This
innovative sensor is combined with Sony's most advanced AF
(autofocus) system to date - boasting AI autofocus with up to 120
times AF/AE focus calculations per second. With the added ability
to sync flash at all shooting speeds, the Alpha 9 III opens up a
new world of possibilities for professional photographers to
capture every decisive moment.
"The Alpha 9 III full-frame camera is a landmark achievement for
the industry," says Yang Cheng, Vice
President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics. "Designed with the
needs and demands of professional photographers in mind, every
single update to this camera – from the sensor to even the size to
the button layouts and menu functions – has been made to address
specific input and feedback from our community. We have listened
and are thrilled to bring the new capabilities of the Alpha 9 III
to market---capabilities which allow photographers to capture
things they've never been able to capture before." Cheng continued,
"For professionals everywhere, they can achieve even more
dynamic expressions when the Alpha 9 III is combined with our rich
lineup of lenses, in particular with the new 300mm F2.8 G Master
OSS – the world's lightestii large-aperture telephoto
lens."
Features of the Alpha 9 III Full-Frame Camera
A New
Dimension of Still Image Performance Created by the World's
Firsti Global Shutter Image Sensor
The Alpha 9 III is equipped with the newly developed, world's
firsti global shutter full frame stacked CMOS image
sensor with approximately 24.6 effective megapixelsiii
and built-in memory. Combined with the latest image processing
engine BIONZ XR®, the Alpha 9 III achieves blackout-free Continuous
Shooting Speed with AF/AE trackingiv of up to
approximately 120 fpsiv. The Alpha 9 III is supplied
with high-density focal plane phase detection AF. A designated AI
processing unit uses Real-time Recognition AF to recognize a wide
variety of subjects with high precision. By combining high-speed
performance of up to 120 fps with highly accurate subject
recognition performance, it is possible to easily photograph scenes
and moments that cannot be seen with the naked eyeiv.
The AI processing unit in the Alpha 9 III supports movies as well
as still photography with accurate subject form and movement
recognition. The Real-time Recognition AF and Real-time Tracking
provide a significant improvement in human eye recognition
performance, allowing the camera to automatically recognize, track,
and focus on the eyes of a specified subjectv. The Alpha
9 III is equipped with 8.0 stopsvi of optical 5-axis
in-body image stabilization, allowing for high-quality image
rendering.
Shutter speed is freed from the limitations of conventional
mechanical shutter image sensors and achieves a maximum shutter
speed of 1/80,000 second (1/16,000 second during continuous
shooting)vii, making it possible to capture at high
speed without any distortion. When a compatible Sony
flashviii is attached, such as the HVL-F60RM2 and
HVL-F46RM (sold separately), it is possible to synchronize the
flash and take pictures at all shutter speeds up to 1/80,000
secondvii. Previously, if the user released the shutter
at a speed faster than the flash's synchronization speed, the
amount of light would drop sharply, but with the full-speed flash
synchronization function, it's now possible to photograph scenes
that could not be easily captured with conventional technology.
Also, when shooting stills or movies under LED lighting, the Hi
Frequency Flicker function can significantly reduce high-frequency
flicker problems by allowing the shutter speed to be finely
adjusted to match the flicker frequency while viewing the
monitor.
The Alpha 9 III features selectable release lag modes which
allows the user to prioritize release lag or viewfinder/monitor
displayix. The newly developed Pre-Capture
function allows the camera to continuously record up to one second
before the shutter is released, making it easy to capture moments
that would otherwise be missed. When selected, the Continuous
Shooting Speed Boostx function allows for the user
to change to a faster, preset speed set by the user at any time
during shooting, and enhanced burst stamina ensures that important
moments are reliably captured due to a large buffer memory and
increased overall system speed allow up to approximately 390 Fine
JPEG imagesxi to be captured in one continuous 30
fpsxii burst.
Customizable focus areas have been expanded to include from XS
to XL in addition to the previous S, M, and L sizes. The Preset
Focus/Zoom function allows preset focus and zoom settings to be
memorized in the camera for quick recall when
neededxiii. In addition to the existing custom white
balance frame size, the user can now select other sizes as needed
which allows for fine white balance adjustment after an image has
been composed. The Alpha 9 III has upgraded features such as the
latest AF algorithms to achieve high AF precision down to light
levels as low as EV-5 in AF-S mode (ISO 100 equivalent, F2.0 lens),
AF tracking for continuous shooting at F22xiv and a
composite RAW shooting function that gives the ability to combine
multiple consecutive images into a high-quality composite.
Advanced Video Performance Without Distortion
The global shutter image sensor provides distortion-free image
expression for videos as well as still images. For example, the
user can shoot images of nearby scenery from a fast-moving vehicle
such as a car or fast-moving subjects with ease. This camera is the
first in the Alpha™ series to be able to record 4K 120p high-frame-rate video without cropping,
allowing the user to shoot at the angle of view intended. It is
also possible to shoot high-resolution 4K 60p videos with 6K oversampling.
The Alpha 9 III has S-Cinetone™, a unique Sony feature which can
create a cinematic look straight out of the camera without
post-processing. S-Cinetone was created through the development of
the VENICE high-end cinema camera
and makes human skin tones and subjects stand out beautifully,
creating natural highlights. The Alpha 9 III has the latest video
performance including rich gradation performance and S-Log3, and
when in Log shooting mode, it can reflect and display the user's
favorite imported LUT (lookup table). The Alpha 9 III is compatible
with the mobile app "Monitor & Control" for video creators.
Operability and Reliability for Professionals
Sony has listened to the voices of professional photographers
and created operability and reliability that supports professional
users. The shape of the grip is improved and ergonomically designed
so that it can be easily held in the palm of the hand to avoid
straining the user even when wearing a telephoto lens or using it
for long periods of time.
The VG-C5 vertical grip (sold separately), provides the same
operability and versatility as when shooting horizontally; the user
can comfortably support long shooting sessions. The grip and
shutter button area share the same design as the main body,
allowing image capture without feeling uncomfortable, with the same
operability as the camera. The Alpha 9 III is equipped with a
4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor that can be operated by touch,
allowing for intuitive operation using the latest touch menu. The
electronic viewfinder uses a 9.44 million-dot Quad XGA OLED and
achieves high visibility with the same brightness as the Alpha 7R V
and a magnification of approximately 0.90x. Also, a custom button
is placed on the front of the camera, and the continuous shooting
speed can be changed by operating the custom button assigned with
Continuous Shooting Speed Boost with the finger holding the grip,
allowing for highly immediate operations. It supports professional
photographers when shooting in all environments.
High-Speed Workflow and Scalability to Support Immediate
Delivery
New features for the Alpha 9 III include a playback image filter
that allows the user to efficiently select a large number of images
using high-speed continuous shooting, and a function menu that can
be used even during image playback, strongly supporting
professional workflows from shooting to delivery.
The "Playback Function Menu" can be assigned in advance, so the
user can perform protection, smartphone transfer, File transfer
protocol, etc. during image playback. The user can select images
narrowed down with a playback filter and play them from the
function menu, allowing for quick delivery of specific images. The
camera has a dedicated microphone for voice memos on the back, and
by positioning the built-in microphone near the user's mouth allows
clear recording of audio even in noisy environments. The recorded
audio data can be transferred via FTP along with the images. The
camera allows the user to set up to 20 presets from the
International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC), an
international consultative body in which news organizations from
various countries participate.
The Alpha 9 III can transfer data up to twice as fast as the
Alpha 9 II. 5 GHz communication offers maximum speed and stability
for news and sports shooters who need to deliver immediately via
FTP, as well as for studio environments. The Alpha 9 III allows
stills and movies to be recorded to memory media in numerous ways
including the two media slots that support CFexpress Type A cards
as well as UHS-I and UHS-II SD cards.
It is compatible with the professional mobile application
"Transfer & Tagging" which speeds up the image delivery
workflow, and the application "Remote Camera Tool" which allows
remote shooting of PCs using wired LAN. Also, Sony plans to support
a new version of Camera Remote SDK, a software development kit that
allows remote camera operation and changing shooting settings, in
Spring 2024.
In addition, the Alpha 9 III is scheduled to support functional
enhancements such as FTP operability, relay playback, and
C2PAxv format
support xvi through a camera software
updatexvii.
Firmware Updates for the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III
Models
In addition to the release of Alpha 9 III, Sony has announced
new firmware updates for the Alpha 1 and Alpha 7S III full-frame
mirrorless cameras xvii. The new software will
provide both models with some of Sony's latest imaging technologies
including the highly requested Focus Breathing Compensation
feature, IPTC and FTP workflow enhancement, and C2PA format
support. The firmware will also update the Alpha 1 with Relay
Playback, and the Alpha 7S III with DCI 4K 24.00P shooting format. The camera software
update will be available in Spring 2024.
Pricing and Availability
The Alpha 9 III camera is available for pre-order
Nov. 8, 2023, at a variety of Sony's
authorized dealers, for a suggested retail price of $5,999.99 USD and $8,299.99 CAN.
The VG-C5 vertical grip is available for pre-order
Nov. 8, 2023, at a variety of Sony's
authorized dealers, for a suggested retail price of $399.99 USD and $549.99 CAN.
For detailed product information about the Alpha 9 III, please
visit:
https://www.sony.ca/en/electronics/interchangeable-lens-cameras/ilce-9m3
For more product information about the VG-C5 vertical grip,
please visit:
https://www.sony.ca/en/electronics/interchangeable-lens-cameras-other-accessories/vg-c5
Product videos of the Alpha 9 III can be viewed here:
Announcement Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTSPPLRIYBg
Product Feature Video: https://youtu.be/3gCKcq4THNQ
Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with all the new
microphones and Sony's other imaging products can be found at
www.alphauniverse.com, a site created to educate and inspire all
fans and customers of Sony α - Alpha brand.
About Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and
an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most
comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a
portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures,
mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in
San Diego, California, Sony
Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and
professional markets. Operations include research and development,
engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service.
Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire
generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens
Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is
also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from
4K professional broadcast and A/V
equipment to industry leading 4K and
8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit
www.sony.com/press for more information.
Notes:
i Compared to interchangeable-lens digital cameras. As
of the November 2023 product
announcement. Sony survey.
ii As of the November 2023
product announcement. Sony survey of interchangeable 300mm F2.8
lenses for full-frame digital cameras.
iii Approximate, effective.
iv Sony test conditions. Maximum continuous frame rate
may be lower in some shooting conditions. Continuous shooting speed
may vary depending on the lens used in AF-C focus modes. Visit
Sony's support web page for lens compatibility information. A
software update for the lens itself is also required. The software
is scheduled to be released after December
2023.
v When subject recognition is ON during AF
shooting. Face, eye, etc. recognition status can be monitored when
subject recognition frame display is ON.
vi CIPA standards. Pitch/yaw shake only. FE 50mm
F1.2 GM lens. Long exposure NR off.
vii Maximum shutter speed is 1/16000 second when F1.8 or
larger aperture is used. 1/80,000 second speed not available when
shooting movies, when using the Var. Shutter function, or when no
lens is mounted.
viii A software update is required. The software update
will be released simultaneously with the Alpha 9 III. Some
variation in brightness and color may occur between shots when
using shutter speeds higher than 1/10000 second. Light level may
not reach the manual light output level setting at some shutter
speeds, resulting in insufficient light level. Refer to the support
page at https://www.sony.net/dics/ilce9m3fl/ for details.
ix With the default [Auto/Off] setting no blackout
occurs when shooting is started, and release time is controlled for
optimum display latency. The [Fast Release/On] setting provides the
shortest possible release time lag with blackout occurring on only
the first image in a continuous burst. The [Stable Release/On]
setting minimizes variations in release lag with blackout occurring
on only the first image in a continuous burst, making it easier to
release the shutter at the intended moment.
x Continuous shooting may be interrupted when
Continuous Shooting Speed Boost is used to switch from a low
shooting speed to a shooting speed higher than 60 fps, or when
switching from a high shooting speed to a shooting speed lower than
30 fps.
xi With Sony CEA-G160T CFexpress Type A memory
cards (sold separately). Sony test conditions.
xii Sony test conditions. Maximum continuous frame
rate may be lower in some shooting conditions. Continuous shooting
speed may vary depending on the lens used in AF-C focus modes.
Visit Sony's support web page for lens compatibility
information.
xiii Preset focus works with compatible lenses such
as the FE 300mm F2.8 G Master OSS lens. Preset Focus/Zoom
settings cannot be recalled while the shutter button is
half-pressed. Only focus can be preset for prime lenses. If a zoom
lens without power zoom is attached, the focus position/zoom
positions can only be registered and recalled via remote operation
using the computer software Remote Camera Tool. For details, refer
to the following website.
https://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/app/remotecameratool/l/index.php
Preset Focus/Zoom can only be recalled when the lens that was
mounted when the settings were registered is used. Not all lenses
are compatible.
xiv When [Aperture Drive in AF] is set to [Focus
Priority], the aperture size can be smaller than F22. Results may
vary depending on shooting conditions and the lens used.
xv A standards organization that develops open standards
and technical specifications for the origin and authenticity of
digital content.
xvi Will be available in select countries and
regions.
xvii Software update available by Spring 2024.
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SOURCE Sony Electronics, Inc.