Description
New image sensor with double the readout speed
The newly developed back-illuminated full-frame Exmor RTM CMOS sensor with 12.1 effective megapixels boasts a readout speed up to twice as fast as that of the α7S II along with high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. An advanced colour filter array boosts colour reproduction accuracy while focal plane phase-detection AF enables substantial increases in auto focus stability and precision all of which contribute to outstanding image quality.
New image-processing engine with up to 8x the processing performance
The BIONZ XRTM image-processing engine boasts a performance level up to eight times that of the previous processor minimizing latency while markedly improving real-time processing capabilities for both movies and stills. The engine performs real-time processing of AF image recognition and image-quality adjustments while also handling data transfer user interface and other camera operations.
High sensitivity wide dynamic range
The full-frame 12.1-megapixel configuration enables high sensitivity with low noise throughout the camera’s sensitivity range by optimizing the output signal from the sensor. The standard ISO range is 80–102400 which is further expandable to 40–409600 (80–409600 for movies). The dynamic range is an impressively wide 15 stops for beautiful true-to-life images without blown highlights. Together the camera’s high sensitivity and wide dynamic range expand your creative freedom during shoots.
Full-frame 4K recording at 120p
Full-frame 4K recording at 120 fps with autofocus is possible thanks to the high-speed readout capabilities of the new image sensor working in tandem with the newly developed powerful BIONZ XR processor. This high image-quality 4K with full-pixel readout without binning allows for clear post-produced slow motion (up to 5x slower than real time) as well as bokeh effects typical of full-frame cameras all with smooth high-precision autofocus. Despite the α7S III’s compact size it provides impressive scope for your creativity.
Recording movies with 10-bit depth and 4:2:2 colour sampling
The camera is capable of performing 4K internal recording with 10-bit depth and 4:2:2 colour sampling when using either Long GOP or All Intra compression. This makes it possible to push your colour grades further stretching video out for ultimate HDR realism while still retaining natural gradation for true editing freedom.
All-Intra internal recording
In addition to Long GOP inter-frame compression the α7S III supports internal intra-frame (All-Intra) recording for the first time in an α-model body where each frame is recorded independently at a high bitrate of up to 600 Mbps. This can be useful for certain types of shoots as it allows maximum flexibility in post-production editing. [1] All-Intra (All-I) [2] Long GoP [3] Group of Pictures
HEVC codec with high compression efficiency
Available for the first time XAVC HS format recording using the MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec roughly doubles the compression efficiency. Compared to a normal 4K XAVC S format XAVC HS allows for detailed 10-bit video with 4:2:2 colour sampling at comparable or lower data rates delivering even better image quality as well as manageable file sizes.
16-bit RAW data output
Facilitating improved image quality and more flexible and efficient editing in post-production the camera supports 16-bit RAW data output to an external recorder via HDMI for the first time in the α series. The output is full-frame 4264 x 2408 (16:9 aspect ratio) 16-bit data from the image sensor with a choice of frame rates (60p/50p/30p/25p/24p).
S-Log2 and S-Log3 with 10-bit 4:2:2 support
S-Log2 and S-Log3 gamma curves are available with S-Log3 designed for better reproduction of gradations from shadows to the mid-grey range (18% grey) enabling a dynamic range of up to 15 stops. Three colour gamut settings (S-Gamut S-Gamut3 and S-Gamut3.Cine) are provided and the latter two settings make it easier to match the colours of footage shot with Sony’s professional cinema cameras. Because the colours match colour grading is easier in post-production editing making it more convenient to use the α7S III along with other pro cameras.