Great review. I have watched it at least 10 times to keep up with the different cameras and the leaps in technology. It's 2024 and I shoot with the RX10IV and A77v, loving them both. Thank you for your clear and concise explanations and information.
Oh yes!!! the A700 was my very 1st camera in Dec 2010. I stayed with the family and went a65, a77II, a7 (used for 630 w/grip Dec2017), and finally the New a7iii. I still owned them all. Superb video! Sony for life!
Dear Gary, I started with the a350. Now I'm still using the a55 and the a77II. I only use these old minolta G lenses. They are cheap, very good build and they have an amasing picture quality. You will understand, I stay with the alpha system. Thank you for all the information Geert
YOU ARE A HISTORY TEACHER. I am just learning photography I just used to shoot on automatic mode with my Sony dslr. it is good to learn the evolution of the cameras. I am 75 yrs old and not too old to learn, just bought a6300 and I am still learning. Thanks
I started with a Minolta 7000 in 2022. Went digital with a Sony A230. Upgraded a year later to the A99 and now I got myself a Minolta alpha 9 for film photographie . Two years 4 cameras :D The A-Mount is a nice platform.
The Minolta Alpha 9 is incredible. Built like a tank! I said as much on my video on Minolta cameras, which you can see here: ruclips.net/video/N9DSDfVYHBU/видео.html 🙂
My favourite is the a57...its small and portable but nicely built - a 16mp sensor , a great 920k LCD screen that tilts and swivels . I shoot mine with a Minolta 28mm F2.8 and 50mm 1.7...
Really enjoyed the video. You clearly are extremely knowledgable about cameras and their progression in time. I’m just wanting to get started with this as a hobby and your video helped me immensely. Thanks 🙏
After a lot of investigating I brought an a6000 in early 2014, it has been a wonderful camera to learn about photography. In early 2017 I brought an RX10III, like you say quite under rated for its capabilities. I would really like an A7RII. Thanks Gary for another informative video, and thanks Sony for some wonderful cameras.
Thank you for this interesting overview. The Sony bridge-cameras I never had before on my radar-screen. What I appreciate with Sony is the flexibility of use and the long term compatibility. I started out with Minolta film cameras in the 80s (A-mount and MD-mount) and 35 years later I can still use my old Minolta AF glass on my A77 and A99 with a decent quality. The fact that Sony produced great working adapters (e.g. LA-EA4 and LA-EA5) for the E-mount allows me to use my expensive A-mount lenses up to some extent also on my A7R III. My old Nex7, A7 and A7S are primarily used as a platform for my collection of 150 manual focus vintage lenses (from the film era). The fact that Sony pioneered the mirror-less camera mass-market created a huge environment of adapters and other accessories for using nearly all kind of (even rare) vintage lenses. And my Sony cameras never let me down. Even my old A100 and A350 are still working fine and produce with their CCD-sensor an acceptable picture quality under good lighting conditions. The Sony mirror-less cameras are the best option for using manual-focus vintage glass but even on the SLT cameras (A77 and A99) some vintage lenses can be used (e.g. with the T2 and M42-mount and a small adapter) in manual mode. In this context I also want to thank you for all your great books. Over the years I purchased books for the A100, A77, A99, Nex7 and A7. These have been a great help for me, especially your book for the A99 since my camera has a Japanese menu and with the book I figured out how to use the A99 properly.
Great video and a nice history lesson on Sony digital cameras! I've been shooting Canon since the late 70s (and still shoot Canon), but added an RX100 IV and an RX10 III to my collection because they're perfect for traveling without sacrificing image quality. I'm about to upgrade to the RX10 IV (will be handing my RX10 III to my little sister) and will be knocking on your doors to get your manual for it as soon as you release it. Your manuals are still my favorite. I've learned more from yours than any others. They're very educational, easy to follow, and entertaining, as well. Thanks for all your hard work!
Now you may add a Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III... that looks fine... but I'm satisfied with both Sony A55 and A77 and a little Canon G15 that turns my bag lighter with images good enough...
Love your videos! I would also like to see a color analysis of the Sony lineup. I know that lenses have a lot to say about color - but color varies according to camera as well. Just curious.
I still have my A300 and A700. I shoot product/tethered shots with my A68. I use my A6000 for adapted lens photography and I just picked up a used (perfect) RX10 mk1 to take the place of my A6000/lenses for travel.
I have two answers for you: 1) If you really insist on using your old Minolta lenses, then yes, the A99 or A99 II will work for video. But there are drawbacks. The A mount was never intended to be used for video: the motor in the camera body (for lenses without AF motors inside) get picked up by the microphones. To get autofocus during video the camera insists on shooting as close to f/3.5 as it can get, so there's no real control over depth-of-field. Using an adapter for your A-mount lenses onto an E-mount body is worse, as AF is disabled completely on the newer bodies. For video, any mirrorless body with a native lens will likely work better, be it from Panasonic, Sony, OM Digital or Fujifilm. (Nikon and Canon also.)
Interestingly the beam-splitter idea as used in the Alpha 55 was used way back in the 1950s by the Angenieux company who used it in reflex lenses for cine cameras (even for standard 8mm).
I think it goes back even further than that - the Technicolor DF-24 Beam Splitter Motion Picture Camera used to film the Wizard of Oz split the light three different ways (one for R, G, and B).
@@FriedmanArchives Thanks for the reply. Yes, like most 'inventions' the origins of an application like this probably go back further than is recorded. Beam splitters of various types go back to at least the mid 19th century so have been a known technology since the origins of photography. I assume the Sony used a half-silvered mirror type as the weight of a double prism type would, I guess have been prohibitive. I wonder if Sony used this technology to provide an optical finder for some of their ENG video cameras. It would account for how the Alpha 55 came about from a company that, traditionally, is more of an innovator in electronics than optics.
So glad I found your videos. I've had a gap of twenty years or more out of the industry. Was a darkroom technician in the film days, unfortunately no one needs us anymore. Had an Olympus OM1 and Nikkormat, plus medium and a 5x4. Family always had a point and shoot, but imagine my shock at buying Somy A7 and trying to figure out what I'd actually bought. Talking about a quantum leap and feel like I'm starting from the beginning again. I've just watched two of your videos and love the enthusiasm, presentation and great tuition. I'm a Big fan.
Very good Gary! And what a collection of Sony cameras! Assume they are all yours. The array solidly dispels the rumour you hear occasionally that "Sony is not a camera company".
Hi Gary Great work on this video . I also enjoyed the book you made on the A9. You are without peers when it comes to explaining camera technology. Continued success.
Very informative video, i must say i love my Sony SLT AX5 camera and have just taken some great animal shots (in my opinion) with the zoom lens that came with my camera bundle. I'm looking to add more lenses now and learn even more about getting the most out of my camera.
After watching some of your videos (and lots of others) I just bought a used a99ii to go with my a77 that I've had for several years, partly (mostly?) for fiscal reasons. I've wanted to upgrade to full frame for a long time, but wasn't sure if I'd like the smallness of the mirrorless in my hands and the nearest photo store is almost an hour away. I ordered your a99ii book and while reading the owners manual noticed it has an APS-C setting. Does that mean I can attach my Tamron DI ii 17-50 f/2.8 lens to the a99ii or do I need to buy a full-frame lens (I also own 3 ff lenses)? Does it cost anything to subscribe?
Hi, Gary! Yes, you can attach your APS-C lens to your A99 II without problems. It will only use the center portion of the sensor, resulting in about an 18 MP image instead of 42. But you can still use it. Buying a full-frame lens will allow you to shoot 42 MP images again.
@@FriedmanArchives Thanks for the quick reply. If you're familiar with Ugly Hedgehog, I posted my first pic on the a99ii using my 105 macro lens, handheld. I'll have to set up my focus target and see if I need to microadjust like i did on my a77 with 150-600 (made a world of difference).
@@garyausten5939 Great! Oh, and I didn't answer your last question - it costs nothing to subscribe. (Nor to the blog at FriedmanArchives.com/blog . :-) )
Gary love your videos and knowledge of Sony cameras I shoot wildlife with a A99ii and 150-600mm tamron, like the 42 megapixels and 12 fps, but hate the video restrictions on auto focus, would the video be easier with a A7Riii and a-mount adapter? Interested in your answer Thanks
Thank you Gary for the concise, informative video, I like good cameras regardless of Brand, Currently using GH4 & Sony NX3, but you sparked my interest in Sony again so I am looking at FF A7riii, (or wait for the Next A7Siii) as I mainly do Videos). Can I ask what sharp, versatile zoom (or a couple of primes) I should go with if I had to purchase just one full frame zoom ?
My last film camera was the Konica Autoreflex T3n, and my first digital camera was the 6MP KonicaMinolta 5D which I bought in 2005, on the basis that both Konica and Minolta made great cameras and lenses in the past. Plus the idea of a built-in anti-shake system which I could use on all Minolta AF lenses appealed to me. Unfortunately KM pulled out of the photographic market, and my camera developed a shutter button problem. Sony eventually took over the KM photographic section, and they offered to have my camera repaired by a company in the UK. The camera returned to the same repair company for further work. So I decided to buy the Sony A450, which is the stripped down version of the Sony A550. Shortly afterwards the KM 5D died. I get great service out of the A450. Recently, I found that age doesn't allow me to bend down like I used, so, I bought a second-hand A550 from Amazon. It is in mint condition.
@@FriedmanArchives I think that the A850 came out around the same time, being a budget version of the A900. Both being the only full frame cameras with a moving mirror. In 2015, I bought the A77 SLT because Sony.ie had it on special offer, roughly 60% of the UK price. I did ask Sony if there was a problem with this camera, and I was told that there were no issues with it. Some of the members in the photographic club said that it might be "loss leader" as was the practice of certain supermarkets, to have it seen in public. At that time, Canon and Nikon had the lion's share of the market in Ireland. I found that I couldn't get used to the EVF with it "flashing" at each exposure, and the battery didn't last for long. It was a rather heavy camera, despite not having a moving mirror. I traded it in the following year.
I'm a Minolta man since 1975, so all my glorious old Maxxum glass finds a home on my Sony A850, SLT A77 and A99. I'm too old and lacking in photographic activity to fuss with the mirrorless branch of the family. Enjoyable video!
I love my A7R2 but in 2023, I think I'm finally going to upgrade. I've gotten some beautiful images with this camera but thr AF improvements will be a huge help for my bird photography.
Then the A7R V is definitely for you!! (And here's a great way to learn to use all of its features: friedmanarchives.podia.com/the-friedman-archives-guide-to-sony-s-a7r-v :-) )
I actually have both the Minolta a-7 and the Sony a7, and I have to say that the Minolta DNA is still there. I have managed to program both cameras so that switching between them becomes almost seamless. In fact I usually use both bodies at the same time, with different lenses that complements each other in terms of focal length, and haven't noticed any major difference that causes me to lose a shot when switching back and forth between them.
Very informative video. I also looked at your 5 year old Minolta camera videos which is also interesting since I own Minolta. Question is, do you own all of these? That’s amazing👍
Hi Gary, I’m big fan of your work. I need a big help in my decision. At the moment I have 2xa99 with 8 best a mount lenses. I’m planning to upgrade to a99mk2 or a7mk3 . If I upgrade to mirrorles I need to sell it my all gear. The. FF E mount lens prices just crazy. If I stay with the a mount maybe I will stuck in the a mount because hard to sell kt later. My big question the eye lock on af how good on a99mk2 compare to a7mk3 series? I know I can use a mount lenses with adapter on a7 series but I shoot weddings and I don’t want to messing with adapters.
Does the la ea2 lens adapter still only let lenses go down to f-stop 3.5 when shooting video using the A6500 ot has this been resolved with lenses with a 1.8 f-stop
Thank you for the video. It is still relevant today because I am eyeing a used 7R II body as I cannot spend that much on the latest and the greatest. My first DSLR was A200, despite the CCD sensor I loved its built-in stabilization. Shame that my RX-100 short lived after a light rain. I hope they got better at weather sealing. NEX-6 is still going strong, one of the few NEX models with phase detect AF.
The shutter button on the origional a7 is somthing I will call as "retro". It's exactly in the same place as some classic film SLRs like the Minolta SR-T 101, Pentax K1000, and Nikon FM. I like it because most of my film SLRs have the shutter button in the same place, but I totally get why others don't like it.
@@garyfriedman2005, I do realize that. I have LA-EA4 and Sony A Tamron 70-200, but it works pretty bad on A73. Only 15 AF points in 3 small clusters around the center... and it hunts a lot in dim light. Often without success. So it came to my mind to use that Tamron with his native mount camera. A friend told me A68 could be a good pair with this lens. It must be usable on ISO3200 and it must focus and track in low light. Is this combo capable to do this? Thanks in advance.
So, the a55 came out at the same time as the a580 and a560. And one of these cameras was going to be my first new camera. I decided to go for the a580 and I love it, but Now I want the a55 to have a collection like yours.
Hi Gary! I have enjoyed your through reviews on Minolta cameras, however, the X-700 (which I got as a present last week) is missing! Perhaps it’s predecesor the XD-7 makes for this omission. I have a Minolta Alpha 9 whose grip has cracked. Perhaps it’s the Ub radiation in the tropical latitude of Costa Rica where a I live! Can you pinpoint me where could I have it replaced? Perhaps there is a new old stock part somewhere?
Gary Friedman Thanks for the quick answer! I will follow through with your take on the X-700! By the way, the XD-7 has reached Nikon FM2 prices on eBay!
Minolta was great, and it was great when Sony bought it. I shoot with Sony for 10 years ( A300, A37, A850, Nex3, 5, A6000, Rx100) but i regret ergonomic design (for me, Nikon is most ergonomic for speed work), for weddings for example
I just picked up a mint a850 with 8000 shutter actuations for $700 to replace the one that was stolen from me (with an a7, an a65 and other things). I also have an a7II coming to replace the a7. Sony cameras are great! I'm so glad I could replace the a-mount a850 with such a clean copy a dozen years after the end of production. And Minolta a-mount lenses are so cheap and so good. I'm hoping for many more years of shooting with them on the a850.
Love this video. I’ve been using Minolta/Sony gear since I bought a Minolta 300 back in the 90’s. My first DSLR was the Konica Minolta maxim 7D with the vertical grip. I didn’t like what Sony was putting out until the A700 but didn’t have the money to upgrade. I finally upgraded to the A77 since you can shoot video also.
Nice video man! i have a question how do you think that rx10iv is working under low light conditions? i think is a monster to sport shootings but if you dont have enough light ... i would like to see how it works before buy!
I have a technical question that is perplexing me. Perhaps you can help, Gary. When my Sony A6000 is set to flexible spot large, I get an array of 15 x 17 (W x H) for a total of 255 AF points to choose from. The problem is that according to the specifications for the A6000, there are only 204 AF points (179 phase detect plus 25 contrast detect). Further, I get the same array of 15 x 17 when I mount a non-native lens, such as the Sigma 30mm 2.8 DN, which only utilizes phase detect in the center. So, how is it that I am able to put the focus point in some places where there is no AF point? Is there a way for me to know if I have placed the flexible spot AF over an AF point? Thank you.
Thank you, Gary. It sounds to me like the contrast-detect AF covers the entire sensor, regardless of how many contrast-AF "points" or zones are listed in the specifications. Perhaps, more contrast-AF zones help with tracking moving subjects even though the entire sensor has this coverage?
Sounds to me like the increase in the number of CDAF points from 25 in the A6000 to 169 in the A6300 may amount to little more than a marketing piece for Sony.
I love my sony a77ii and sony a7ii. Sony makes the best cameras, to my standard. I feel more comfortable with sony interms of video quality, and photo quality is amazing as well. You summed up everything in this video. Sony really is a revolutionary company.
Ive been through quite a few point and shoot digital cameras but now I want to get into DSLR photography. I still have my old Minolta Dynax 500si and it's lenses. Which Sony model can I get that can use them BUT won't break the bank?
Question------i have been told by Nikonand tamron, that the new tamron 24mm f2.8 G2, f mount, that this lenses will not function in auto setting on my older Nikon D50 because Nikon updated this lenses system.....My question is this, will this lens work on my D50 if i only use it in the manual position?....thank you
Question buddy, is the overall focusing system on the current DSLR's from canon and Nikon much faster then the AF on the mirrorless and SLT cameras?.....And which system do you like better?
Thanks Garry. Hey, you've another camera to add to your collection the A7RIII. I was looking for a cheaper A7III. Anyone asking which camera to start with, would be well advised to go for Sony, their innovative trend is most admirable.
@@miklosnemeth8566 Thank You;) In terms of image quality, the RX1rII still surpasses pretty much anything on the market in the segment. Especially the highly praised Fujis can not keep up. Used you get the RX1RII already for about 2000€
Gary Friedman, I need your objective advice as someone who has shot with both the A9 and A99II. I just preordered the A7RIII along with the 85 & 24-70 GM's and put my A99II and Zeiss 24/2.0, 50/1.4, 85/1.4, and 135/1.8 up for sale. My main reason being the fantastic A9-like AF on the A7R3 as well as availability to newer Sony lenses. While the A99II is truly an amazing camera, I find the AF with the Zeiss 135/1.8 and 85/1.4 (my default lenses) extremely unreliable in low light or backlit conditions, and I often frustratingly find that my favorite shots from paid assignments are out of focus. Am I grasping at straws hoping that the A7RIII AF in combination with the newer lenses would solve my AF woes as many RUclips reviews suggest? Am I making a mistake? I still have the opportunity to cancel my order. Many thanks.
At 3:00 he says that the Sony a300 implemented live view for the first time. But actually it was the Sony a350. The photo of the video camera is correct though.
I just refreshed my own memory, by looking at the book I wrote AND via this website: www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/AA300/AA300A.HTM The A300 had Live View also! I have been vindicated. :-)
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
My first dslr was the A100, then the A700, now I'm still shooting the A77ii. Love them all...
Great review. I have watched it at least 10 times to keep up with the different cameras and the leaps in technology. It's 2024 and I shoot with the RX10IV and A77v, loving them both. Thank you for your clear and concise explanations and information.
I admire your memory and knowledge 👏👏👏👏👏👏
Thanks!
Sony A900 in 2008 was released ahead of its time, what a great DSLR!
I love your enthusiasm about your cameras and their engineering, I enjoyed this video.
Oh yes!!! the A700 was my very 1st camera in Dec 2010. I stayed with the family and went a65, a77II, a7 (used for 630 w/grip Dec2017), and finally the New a7iii. I still owned them all. Superb video! Sony for life!
Your enthusiasm is infectious, Gary!
My a200 and a300 are my workhorses. My newly purchased Minolta 5000i gets its lenses interchanged between the alpha series. 18 years of tech-amazing.
Dear Gary, I started with the a350. Now I'm still using the a55 and the a77II. I only use these old minolta G lenses. They are cheap, very good build and they have an amasing picture quality. You will understand, I stay with the alpha system.
Thank you for all the information
Geert
YOU ARE A HISTORY TEACHER. I am just learning photography I just used to shoot on automatic mode with my Sony dslr. it is good to learn the evolution of the cameras. I am 75 yrs old and not too old to learn, just bought a6300 and I am still learning. Thanks
I started with a Minolta 7000 in 2022. Went digital with a Sony A230. Upgraded a year later to the A99 and now I got myself a Minolta alpha 9 for film photographie . Two years 4 cameras :D The A-Mount is a nice platform.
The Minolta Alpha 9 is incredible. Built like a tank! I said as much on my video on Minolta cameras, which you can see here: ruclips.net/video/N9DSDfVYHBU/видео.html 🙂
My favourite is the a57...its small and portable but nicely built - a 16mp sensor , a great 920k LCD screen that tilts and swivels . I shoot mine with a Minolta 28mm F2.8 and 50mm 1.7...
Yeah, and the A55 was even smaller!! Aimed at soccer moms. Glad you're getting a lot of mileage out of your favorite!
Great video. My first Sony camera was the A230 and upgraded to A58, A77, A77ii (which is my current go to camera). I love Sony and their technology.
Really enjoyed the video. You clearly are extremely knowledgable about cameras and their progression in time. I’m just wanting to get started with this as a hobby and your video helped me immensely. Thanks 🙏
Thank YOU! You should check out my books on whatever camera you end up getting. :-)
After a lot of investigating I brought an a6000 in early 2014, it has been a wonderful camera to learn about photography. In early 2017 I brought an RX10III, like you say quite under rated for its capabilities. I would really like an A7RII. Thanks Gary for another informative video, and thanks Sony for some wonderful cameras.
Thanks Gary. I own alpha 6500 and pre-ordered last month the RX10 IV!!!
Great video and history. Love your clarity and references.
Thank you!
Good work Gary. You remind me of my high school science teacher. That is a very high compliment!
I started with the A100. :)
Sony really makes great cameras, so innovative.
Great job Gary as always. Keep up the good work.
Very much informative! Thank you!
Thank you for this interesting overview. The Sony bridge-cameras I never had before on my radar-screen. What I appreciate with Sony is the flexibility of use and the long term compatibility. I started out with Minolta film cameras in the 80s (A-mount and MD-mount) and 35 years later I can still use my old Minolta AF glass on my A77 and A99 with a decent quality. The fact that Sony produced great working adapters (e.g. LA-EA4 and LA-EA5) for the E-mount allows me to use my expensive A-mount lenses up to some extent also on my A7R III. My old Nex7, A7 and A7S are primarily used as a platform for my collection of 150 manual focus vintage lenses (from the film era). The fact that Sony pioneered the mirror-less camera mass-market created a huge environment of adapters and other accessories for using nearly all kind of (even rare) vintage lenses. And my Sony cameras never let me down. Even my old A100 and A350 are still working fine and produce with their CCD-sensor an acceptable picture quality under good lighting conditions. The Sony mirror-less cameras are the best option for using manual-focus vintage glass but even on the SLT cameras (A77 and A99) some vintage lenses can be used (e.g. with the T2 and M42-mount and a small adapter) in manual mode. In this context I also want to thank you for all your great books. Over the years I purchased books for the A100, A77, A99, Nex7 and A7. These have been a great help for me, especially your book for the A99 since my camera has a Japanese menu and with the book I figured out how to use the A99 properly.
Great video and a nice history lesson on Sony digital cameras! I've been shooting Canon since the late 70s (and still shoot Canon), but added an RX100 IV and an RX10 III to my collection because they're perfect for traveling without sacrificing image quality. I'm about to upgrade to the RX10 IV (will be handing my RX10 III to my little sister) and will be knocking on your doors to get your manual for it as soon as you release it. Your manuals are still my favorite. I've learned more from yours than any others. They're very educational, easy to follow, and entertaining, as well. Thanks for all your hard work!
Now you may add a Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III... that looks fine... but I'm satisfied with both Sony A55 and A77 and a little Canon G15 that turns my bag lighter with images good enough...
Love your videos! I would also like to see a color analysis of the Sony lineup. I know that lenses have a lot to say about color - but color varies according to camera as well. Just curious.
I still have my A300 and A700. I shoot product/tethered shots with my A68. I use my A6000 for adapted lens photography and I just picked up a used (perfect) RX10 mk1 to take the place of my A6000/lenses for travel.
No question, Gary is amazing.
Hi Gary someone is selling the A99 do you recommend for use as a Video camera to use my old Minolta lenses please? Thank you
I have two answers for you: 1) If you really insist on using your old Minolta lenses, then yes, the A99 or A99 II will work for video. But there are drawbacks. The A mount was never intended to be used for video: the motor in the camera body (for lenses without AF motors inside) get picked up by the microphones. To get autofocus during video the camera insists on shooting as close to f/3.5 as it can get, so there's no real control over depth-of-field. Using an adapter for your A-mount lenses onto an E-mount body is worse, as AF is disabled completely on the newer bodies. For video, any mirrorless body with a native lens will likely work better, be it from Panasonic, Sony, OM Digital or Fujifilm. (Nikon and Canon also.)
I shoot an a99 with Minolta Maxxum AF glass ..... the "Secret Handshake" (with the crossed X logo) is my favorite lens. Thanks for the great video.
Great job Gary. Keep up the excellent work.
This was awesome to watch!
I’m happy that all 3 of my cameras were mentioned.
Minolta 7d, a700 and A77. I’ll be upgrading to the a7ii soon!
I started with A7 in 2017, then A5100, then A9, then A7III, and in 2020 Dynax 7 (film) and I am in the process of buying a Dynax 7D (in 2020)
Thank you Gary, excellent exposé over Sony. See you on Minolta Collectors group.
Interestingly the beam-splitter idea as used in the Alpha 55 was used way back in the 1950s by the Angenieux company who used it in reflex lenses for cine cameras (even for standard 8mm).
I think it goes back even further than that - the Technicolor DF-24 Beam Splitter Motion Picture Camera used to film the Wizard of Oz split the light three different ways (one for R, G, and B).
@@FriedmanArchives Thanks for the reply. Yes, like most 'inventions' the origins of an application like this probably go back further than is recorded. Beam splitters of various types go back to at least the mid 19th century so have been a known technology since the origins of photography. I assume the Sony used a half-silvered mirror type as the weight of a double prism type would, I guess have been prohibitive. I wonder if Sony used this technology to provide an optical finder for some of their ENG video cameras. It would account for how the Alpha 55 came about from a company that, traditionally, is more of an innovator in electronics than optics.
We are waiting for your videos Gary ! Keep it going !
Hi i have the alpha a35 since it was launched havent used it since 2012 is it good to use in 2023 especially for traveling thanks
It's a great camera and if it still works it will take better quality pictures than your smartphone.
So glad I found your videos. I've had a gap of twenty years or more out of the industry. Was a darkroom technician in the film days, unfortunately no one needs us anymore. Had an Olympus OM1 and Nikkormat, plus medium and a 5x4. Family always had a point and shoot, but imagine my shock at buying Somy A7 and trying to figure out what I'd actually bought. Talking about a quantum leap and feel like I'm starting from the beginning again. I've just watched two of your videos and love the enthusiasm, presentation and great tuition. I'm a Big fan.
I feel very lucky to have owned the D7d, A700, A900, A77ii and A99ii! Great video Gary - thanks. Will never shoot E mount unless there is no choice!
You can adapt your a lenses to e mount which would probably go well with the Sony a7
A900 ❤️
Very good Gary! And what a collection of Sony cameras! Assume they are all yours. The array solidly dispels the rumour you hear occasionally that "Sony is not a camera company".
Hi Gary
Great work on this video . I also enjoyed the book you made on the A9. You are without peers when it comes to explaining camera technology. Continued success.
Very informative video, i must say i love my Sony SLT AX5 camera and have just taken some great animal shots (in my opinion) with the zoom lens that came with my camera bundle. I'm looking to add more lenses now and learn even more about getting the most out of my camera.
I wish you could of mentioned the a77ll a-mount being a crop sensor and how it works with the.minolta lenses.
That was amazing.Thanks Gary for this history lesson.You have a new subscriber
After watching some of your videos (and lots of others) I just bought a used a99ii to go with my a77 that I've had for several years, partly (mostly?) for fiscal reasons. I've wanted to upgrade to full frame for a long time, but wasn't sure if I'd like the smallness of the mirrorless in my hands and the nearest photo store is almost an hour away. I ordered your a99ii book and while reading the owners manual noticed it has an APS-C setting. Does that mean I can attach my Tamron DI ii 17-50 f/2.8 lens to the a99ii or do I need to buy a full-frame lens (I also own 3 ff lenses)? Does it cost anything to subscribe?
Hi, Gary! Yes, you can attach your APS-C lens to your A99 II without problems. It will only use the center portion of the sensor, resulting in about an 18 MP image instead of 42. But you can still use it. Buying a full-frame lens will allow you to shoot 42 MP images again.
@@FriedmanArchives Thanks for the quick reply. If you're familiar with Ugly Hedgehog, I posted my first pic on the a99ii using my 105 macro lens, handheld. I'll have to set up my focus target and see if I need to microadjust like i did on my a77 with 150-600 (made a world of difference).
@@garyausten5939 Great! Oh, and I didn't answer your last question - it costs nothing to subscribe. (Nor to the blog at FriedmanArchives.com/blog . :-) )
This was great! I have found an a350 and a700 at great deals. Which one do you think is the better camera?
Both are good; the X700 has more features.
Great video! Thanks Gary!
I have some Minolta lenses from my 9000 if I bought a Sony a900 would those lenses work? Also does the a900 or A700 have video functionality please
Yes they will work on an A900; no neither of those cameras can shoot video.
@@FriedmanArchives which camera would you say is better the Sony A700 or A900 please? Thank you
@@codenamegrimlock7510 I love them both. The most meaningful difference is the sensor size - A700 is APS-C, while the A900 is full-frame.
Gary love your videos and knowledge of Sony cameras I shoot wildlife with a A99ii and 150-600mm tamron, like the 42 megapixels and 12 fps, but hate the video restrictions on auto focus, would the video be easier with a A7Riii and a-mount adapter? Interested in your answer Thanks
@@garyfriedman2005 thanks
Thank you Gary for the concise, informative video, I like good cameras regardless of Brand, Currently using GH4 & Sony NX3, but you sparked my interest in Sony again so I am looking at FF A7riii, (or wait for the Next A7Siii) as I mainly do Videos). Can I ask what sharp, versatile zoom (or a couple of primes) I should go with if I had to purchase just one full frame zoom ?
As usual, great knowledge! Thanks for sharing...
Great video, when are you going to write a book about the RX10 IV, just traded my RX10 III for the mark 4. It really is a “little A9”.
Gary Friedman, thank you, looking forward to buying it. My email: drmarcus396@gmail.com
I just got a A77 and wow it is a very large camera, at least to me...when I was/am use to an Olympus E-M 5 ii.
My last film camera was the Konica Autoreflex T3n, and my first digital camera was the 6MP KonicaMinolta 5D which I bought in 2005, on the basis that both Konica and Minolta made great cameras and lenses in the past. Plus the idea of a built-in anti-shake system which I could use on all Minolta AF lenses appealed to me. Unfortunately KM pulled out of the photographic market, and my camera developed a shutter button problem. Sony eventually took over the KM photographic section, and they offered to have my camera repaired by a company in the UK. The camera returned to the same repair company for further work. So I decided to buy the Sony A450, which is the stripped down version of the Sony A550. Shortly afterwards the KM 5D died. I get great service out of the A450. Recently, I found that age doesn't allow me to bend down like I used, so, I bought a second-hand A550 from Amazon. It is in mint condition.
You've got quite a camera history! I think the 450 was the last generation of Sony cameras to have a moving mirror.
@@FriedmanArchives I think that the A850 came out around the same time, being a budget version of the A900. Both being the only full frame cameras with a moving mirror.
In 2015, I bought the A77 SLT because Sony.ie had it on special offer, roughly 60% of the UK price. I did ask Sony if there was a problem with this camera, and I was told that there were no issues with it. Some of the members in the photographic club said that it might be "loss leader" as was the practice of certain supermarkets, to have it seen in public. At that time, Canon and Nikon had the lion's share of the market in Ireland.
I found that I couldn't get used to the EVF with it "flashing" at each exposure, and the battery didn't last for long. It was a rather heavy camera, despite not having a moving mirror. I traded it in the following year.
Great video, very informative and helpful.
I've had the H50B, A100, A55 and A77 and currently contemplating the A7Rii...
Nice round up there.
I'm a Minolta man since 1975, so all my glorious old Maxxum glass finds a home on my Sony A850, SLT A77 and A99. I'm too old and lacking in photographic activity to fuss with the mirrorless branch of the family. Enjoyable video!
I love my A7R2 but in 2023, I think I'm finally going to upgrade. I've gotten some beautiful images with this camera but thr AF improvements will be a huge help for my bird photography.
Then the A7R V is definitely for you!! (And here's a great way to learn to use all of its features: friedmanarchives.podia.com/the-friedman-archives-guide-to-sony-s-a7r-v :-) )
Great review. As always!
Again a very useful video. And again - thank You! :)
Always love your videos. I enjoy using my legacy Minolta grlass on Sony e-mount (and I still shoot some film through my SRT-102 and X570).
I loved my A7Rii and upgraded to the A7Riv for the better AF performance. Now I'm looking to get an older Sony A100 for the CCD sensor for fun.
You'll enjoy using it! Just don't expect it to shoot video. 🙂
I actually have both the Minolta a-7 and the Sony a7, and I have to say that the Minolta DNA is still there. I have managed to program both cameras so that switching between them becomes almost seamless. In fact I usually use both bodies at the same time, with different lenses that complements each other in terms of focal length, and haven't noticed any major difference that causes me to lose a shot when switching back and forth between them.
Very informative video. I also looked at your 5 year old Minolta camera videos which is also interesting since I own Minolta. Question is, do you own all of these? That’s amazing👍
Gary Friedman I understand 😀
Hi Gary, I’m big fan of your work. I need a big help in my decision. At the moment I have 2xa99 with 8 best a mount lenses. I’m planning to upgrade to a99mk2 or a7mk3 . If I upgrade to mirrorles I need to sell it my all gear. The. FF E mount lens prices just crazy. If I stay with the a mount maybe I will stuck in the a mount because hard to sell kt later. My big question the eye lock on af how good on a99mk2 compare to a7mk3 series? I know I can use a mount lenses with adapter on a7 series but I shoot weddings and I don’t want to messing with adapters.
Does the la ea2 lens adapter still only let lenses go down to f-stop 3.5 when shooting video using the A6500 ot has this been resolved with lenses with a 1.8 f-stop
Thanks for sharing your video today more than 6 years latter give me a map about Alpha mount, Im in dude about A330 or A700 two of your list.
Thank you for the video. It is still relevant today because I am eyeing a used 7R II body as I cannot spend that much on the latest and the greatest. My first DSLR was A200, despite the CCD sensor I loved its built-in stabilization. Shame that my RX-100 short lived after a light rain. I hope they got better at weather sealing. NEX-6 is still going strong, one of the few NEX models with phase detect AF.
The shutter button on the origional a7 is somthing I will call as "retro". It's exactly in the same place as some classic film SLRs like the Minolta SR-T 101, Pentax K1000, and Nikon FM. I like it because most of my film SLRs have the shutter button in the same place, but I totally get why others don't like it.
Great vid!
Such memories! The A350 was my very first camera
Nelson Michael Films awesome.
I am thinking of A68 as my second camera only because of Tamron 70-200. I already have an A73, but no telezoom. Is that a good idea?
@@garyfriedman2005, I do realize that. I have LA-EA4 and Sony A Tamron 70-200, but it works pretty bad on A73. Only 15 AF points in 3 small clusters around the center... and it hunts a lot in dim light. Often without success. So it came to my mind to use that Tamron with his native mount camera. A friend told me A68 could be a good pair with this lens. It must be usable on ISO3200 and it must focus and track in low light. Is this combo capable to do this? Thanks in advance.
@@garyfriedman2005 thanks. I'll sell Tamron and one of my kidneys. I have two. Have a great holidays!
So, the a55 came out at the same time as the a580 and a560. And one of these cameras was going to be my first new camera. I decided to go for the a580 and I love it, but Now I want the a55 to have a collection like yours.
Hi Gary! I have enjoyed your through reviews on Minolta cameras, however, the X-700 (which I got as a present last week) is missing! Perhaps it’s predecesor the XD-7 makes for this omission.
I have a Minolta Alpha 9 whose grip has cracked. Perhaps it’s the Ub radiation in the tropical latitude of Costa Rica where a I live! Can you pinpoint me where could I have it replaced? Perhaps there is a new old stock part somewhere?
Gary Friedman Thanks for the quick answer! I will follow through with your take on the X-700! By the way, the XD-7 has reached Nikon FM2 prices on eBay!
great video, waiting for sony rx10 mark iv review.
Minolta was great, and it was great when Sony bought it. I shoot with Sony for 10 years ( A300, A37, A850, Nex3, 5, A6000, Rx100) but i regret ergonomic design (for me, Nikon is most ergonomic for speed work), for weddings for example
To each his own. That's why there are so many different flavors of ice cream. 🙂
I just picked up a mint a850 with 8000 shutter actuations for $700 to replace the one that was stolen from me (with an a7, an a65 and other things). I also have an a7II coming to replace the a7. Sony cameras are great! I'm so glad I could replace the a-mount a850 with such a clean copy a dozen years after the end of production. And Minolta a-mount lenses are so cheap and so good. I'm hoping for many more years of shooting with them on the a850.
These cameras were built like a tank (especially the a850) that the cameras should be serving you well well into the next decade!
Love this video. I’ve been using Minolta/Sony gear since I bought a Minolta 300 back in the 90’s. My first DSLR was the Konica Minolta maxim 7D with the vertical grip. I didn’t like what Sony was putting out until the A700 but didn’t have the money to upgrade. I finally upgraded to the A77 since you can shoot video also.
They only put out the A100 before the A700, and while the A700 was amazing all around, the A100 was amazing in good light.
Nice video man! i have a question how do you think that rx10iv is working under low light conditions? i think is a monster to sport shootings but if you dont have enough light ... i would like to see how it works before buy!
I have a technical question that is perplexing me. Perhaps you can help, Gary. When my Sony A6000 is set to flexible spot large, I get an array of 15 x 17 (W x H) for a total of 255 AF points to choose from. The problem is that according to the specifications for the A6000, there are only 204 AF points (179 phase detect plus 25 contrast detect). Further, I get the same array of 15 x 17 when I mount a non-native lens, such as the Sigma 30mm 2.8 DN, which only utilizes phase detect in the center. So, how is it that I am able to put the focus point in some places where there is no AF point? Is there a way for me to know if I have placed the flexible spot AF over an AF point? Thank you.
Thank you, Gary. It sounds to me like the contrast-detect AF covers the entire sensor, regardless of how many contrast-AF "points" or zones are listed in the specifications. Perhaps, more contrast-AF zones help with tracking moving subjects even though the entire sensor has this coverage?
Sounds to me like the increase in the number of CDAF points from 25 in the A6000 to 169 in the A6300 may amount to little more than a marketing piece for Sony.
That makes sense. Thank you for your quick replies, Gary.
Great review I have many of those my A850 is the best
We have sony a700 if i sell it how much it will cost?
I'm not sure; it depends on where you list it and what condition it's in. Try searching for it on ebay and take the average of the prices you see.
Holy moly. So much inspiration. And you Sir - you rock completely :-)
The video was really good.But I have a question...if you have two cameras Sony a68 and canon 77 d ..which one you choose? and why?
Good Job.....very informative...!!!!
Love your videos man
Nice collection.
Question---When do you use the camera's HDR or DOR or Both systems?
Yes thank you, i find your way is the best....thank you
I love my sony a77ii and sony a7ii.
Sony makes the best cameras, to my standard. I feel more comfortable with sony interms of video quality, and photo quality is amazing as well. You summed up everything in this video. Sony really is a revolutionary company.
Sir, how about the Sony a68. Is it good for videography.
Ive been through quite a few point and shoot digital cameras but now I want to get into DSLR photography.
I still have my old Minolta Dynax 500si and it's lenses.
Which Sony model can I get that can use them BUT won't break the bank?
Thank you Sir Gary.
Question------i have been told by Nikonand tamron, that the new tamron 24mm f2.8 G2, f mount, that this lenses will not function in auto setting on my older Nikon D50 because Nikon updated this lenses system.....My question is this, will this lens work on my D50 if i only use it in the manual position?....thank you
I enjoy having my a100 and a350, I mostly use a350 until I get pick out its replacement.
Question buddy, is the overall focusing system on the current DSLR's from canon and Nikon much faster then the AF on the mirrorless and SLT cameras?.....And which system do you like better?
Love your book and videos. Can you definitively say if the Sony Phase detect, SLT A mount system is faster than the conventional DSLR with mirrors?
*Hybrid Phase Detection AF* is far more sexy, compared to conventional DSLR.
LIke 79+399 AF Points on A99ii
Thanks Garry. Hey, you've another camera to add to your collection the A7RIII. I was looking for a cheaper A7III. Anyone asking which camera to start with, would be well advised to go for Sony, their innovative trend is most admirable.
Given the choice what would you choose a77II or the a99? Any specific reason(s)?
If the a99II was not do able and only the a99 was an option or the a77II
You have forgot the RX1R (II) . For me, the Best Camera i ever Used! And i Love it!
Wow, what a user name :) I guess RX1R was regarded brutally expensive, a luxury camera.
@@miklosnemeth8566 Thank You;) In terms of image quality, the RX1rII still surpasses pretty much anything on the market in the segment. Especially the highly praised Fujis can not keep up. Used you get the RX1RII already for about 2000€
Good video but one correction. The a33 was the sister model to the a55. The a35 came later.
Gary Friedman, I need your objective advice as someone who has shot with both the A9 and A99II.
I just preordered the A7RIII along with the 85 & 24-70 GM's and put my A99II and Zeiss 24/2.0, 50/1.4, 85/1.4, and 135/1.8 up for sale. My main reason being the fantastic A9-like AF on the A7R3 as well as availability to newer Sony lenses. While the A99II is truly an amazing camera, I find the AF with the Zeiss 135/1.8 and 85/1.4 (my default lenses) extremely unreliable in low light or backlit conditions, and I often frustratingly find that my favorite shots from paid assignments are out of focus.
Am I grasping at straws hoping that the A7RIII AF in combination with the newer lenses would solve my AF woes as many RUclips reviews suggest? Am I making a mistake? I still have the opportunity to cancel my order. Many thanks.
I have a doubt about A77 II... isn´t the same as A68 but with wifi?
At 3:00 he says that the Sony a300 implemented live view for the first time. But actually it was the Sony a350. The photo of the video camera is correct though.
I just refreshed my own memory, by looking at the book I wrote AND via this website: www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/AA300/AA300A.HTM The A300 had Live View also! I have been vindicated. :-)