ASK & DISCUSS
INDEXSony A7S / what do you think of it for video ? what lens would you recommend? thank you
10 years, 8 months ago - Nora Jaccaud
I am thinking of buying the Sony A7S for shooting video while travelling.
Only members can post or respond to topics. LOGIN
Not a member of SP? JOIN or FIND OUT MORE
10 years, 8 months ago - Paul Thomas
I have the A7s too (£1100 online - but make sure you get the PAL version which is also switchable to NTSC and 24P).
The camera shoots 14 stops of dynamic range but it's important to know that this is via Sony's Slog2 curve which means your starting image looks very flat - like images from the RED or Arri Alexa do. It also means you have to shoot +2 or +3 stops over normal exposure to get the best results. I would suggest downloading some example footage and make sure you're happy with the grading process that is required to then grade a wide range of cinematic looks. Google 'Wolfcrow grade A7s' and you'll find a comprehensive grading and shooting tutorial online.
I use a Commlite adaptor (£54 from Amazon) and use my existing Canon 5D lenses. Note that many of the Sony lenses switch the camera back to a 4/3rds frame size, defeating the purpose of having a full frame sensor. The same adaptor is available for Nikon and other lenses.
Another exciting development is that the Atomos Shogun is now out for £1200 which allows you to record 4k from the A7s.
All in all, it's an amazing camera which produces stunning images, but you have to learn how to use it.
Response from 10 years, 8 months ago - Paul Thomas SHOW
10 years, 8 months ago - Mät King
I haven't used it but listened to an interesting podcast about it.
http://digitalcinemacafe.com/2014/08/06/dcc054-sony-a7s-discussion-feat-jason-wingrove-paul-schneider/
They also did one on the GH4. I believe they're pretty light so perhaps a monopod would help with stability.
Response from 10 years, 8 months ago - Mät King SHOW
10 years, 8 months ago - Nora Jaccaud
Thank you for your answers !
I think I will do the jump and get it. Where did you find such a good deal Paul at 1100 pound ?
Also would you recommend any specific lens ? Maybe vintage lens too ?
Thank you again
Response from 10 years, 8 months ago - Nora Jaccaud SHOW
10 years, 8 months ago - Tim Fok
I have one as my B-cam for video to my C100. I think the A7S would be a perfect candidate for a travelling camera.
Very small and compact
Great image quality
great lowlight for unlit conditions
Usually hoop jumping for video-abled stills cameras though. Get a nice set of NDs, and have consider taking a monopod?
Response from 10 years, 8 months ago - Tim Fok SHOW
10 years, 8 months ago - Matt Jamie
I found one for £1270 here, though I've no idea if this is an import or not. Seems legit.
http://www.valuebasket.com/en_GB/Sony-Alpha-A7S-Digital-Camera-Body-Only-(Black)/mainproduct/view/16398-AA-BK?AF=GOOGB&gclid=CjwKEAiAhcGjBRDot_fjjtPKrgsSJACNYh76urv9u1mPTT10_kkSXS9z9a-YS49yPdZKUeKH1D2D0hoCTULw_wcB
Paul do you know if your adapter takes EF-S lenses (specifically i have the 17-55 f2.8 EF-S). I know there are adapters which take these, but good to know if one someone has tested is out there and works well. I'm assuming your adapter is manual?
Response from 10 years, 8 months ago - Matt Jamie SHOW