SONY A7S III – The benchmark in video
The Sony A7S III is the benchmark hybrid camera from Sony for video.
The S series (Sensitivity) in the Alpha lineup has now become the essential tool for video creation.
For the first time, a hybrid body integrates everything a videographer needs without compromise.
With 4K 120p resolution in 4:2:2 10-bit, a 5-axis stabilized sensor, eye-tracking autofocus, and, above all, exceptional low-light performance, the Sony A7S III delivers outstanding quality and flexibility suited for all types of video production.
Features
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10.2 MP Full Frame Sensor
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15 Stops of Dynamic Range
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Articulating Screen
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4K Video at 120p, 4:2:2 10-bit
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Slow Motion 2K 240p
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4K Raw 16-bit 60p Output (via HDMI)
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Autofocus with Face and Eye Tracking
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S-Log3 / S-Gamut3
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S-Cinetone for Post-Production Flexibility
Design of the Sony A7S III
The Sony A7S III is designed to provide a comfortable and efficient user experience, with a robust body suited for various shooting environments. It features an enhanced grip and well-placed buttons, making it easy to access key functions. The articulating touchscreen and high-resolution electronic viewfinder further enhance usability, making this camera ideal for filmmakers and photographers seeking both performance and ease of handling.
Video Quality
The Sony A7S III excels in video, supporting 4K recording up to 120fps with full pixel readout without binning, delivering ultra-detailed and smooth images. This capability is ideal for high-quality slow-motion shots or cinematic content. The S-Log3 color profile provides extended color dynamics, essential for post-production and color grading.
Resolutions
4K (QFHD: 3840 x 2160) : The A7S III can record in 4K up to 120p in 4:2:2 10-bit, enabling smooth slow-motion footage even in 4K, with 4:2:2 10-bit sampling perfect for post-production color grading.
Full HD (1920 x 1080) : In Full HD, the camera can record up to 240fps, ideal for extreme slow-motion shots with clear, detailed image quality, especially for sports or food shooting.
Codecs
XAVC S-I (All-Intra) : This codec records each frame individually, providing higher image quality and more flexible editing, though it results in larger file sizes. Available in 4K and Full HD.
XAVC HS : Using the H.265/HEVC codec, this format offers superior compression efficiency, reducing file sizes while maintaining high image quality, available in 4K.
XAVC S : Based on the H.264 codec, this standard format offers a good balance between image quality and file size, available in both 4K and Full HD.
Encodings
4:2:2 10-bit Internal Recording : High color depth and smoother gradations, reducing chromatic aberrations and allowing for more detailed color corrections in post-production.
16-bit RAW Output via HDMI : 16-bit RAW output via HDMI maximizes image quality for external recordings.
Image Profiles
S-Log3/S-Gamut3.Cine The A7S III offers an extended dynamic range with the S-Log3 profile, perfect for post-production and color grading, capturing maximum detail in highlights and shadows.
HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) For simplified HDR workflows, HLG records videos ready for HDR, compatible with HDR displays without the need for additional post-production.
With this wide range of codecs, resolutions, and frame rates, the Sony A7S III adapts to all types of projects, even in the most challenging conditions.
Stabilization
The built-in 5-axis stabilization system compensates for movements across 5 axes (horizontal, vertical, pan, tilt, and roll), significantly reducing blur caused by hand shakes. This feature is particularly useful when shooting at slow shutter speeds or with long focal lengths.
Autofocus
- The A7S III's autofocus system uses 759 phase-detection points covering about 92% of the frame, ensuring fast and accurate focusing. The new "Tracking AF" technology allows for eye or face tracking (for both humans and animals) or selecting and tracking a defined point within the image.
This new system enhances the capture of moving subjects, making the camera ideal for action photography and dynamic videography.
Additionally, you can adjust the autofocus responsiveness and the speed of point transitions, with level 3 offering a smooth transition, similar to a pointer.
Sensitivity:
The strength of the A7S III lies in its ability to shoot in low light, featuring a Dual ISO sensor with impeccable quality at 12,800 ISO in S-log 3, and manageable noise up to ISO 51,200.
Sensitivity:
The A7S III's 3.0-inch LCD screen is fully articulating, allowing you to tilt and rotate the screen for difficult viewing angles. The touch functionality enables quick and efficient navigation through menus and selection of focus points.
The 9.44-million-dot OLED viewfinder is highly precise, providing a clear and detailed image. The high refresh rate of the viewfinder reduces lag and blur, making it easier to track fast-moving subjects.
Dual Card Slot
CFexpress Type A (800 MB/sec)
SD UHS-II V90 (250MB/sec)
Connectivity
HDMI : Standard, RAW 60p
USB : Micro USB, USB-C (charging)
Audio: Microphone, Headphone
Remote: No
Wireless: Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz, Bluetooth 4.2
Thermal Management
The internal design and construction of the A7S III have been optimized for better heat dissipation, allowing extended 4K video recording without the risk of overheating. However, in high-temperature conditions, it is strongly recommended to keep the articulating screen open and use a cage to avoid direct contact with hands, soles, and accessories.
Conclusion
With its improvements in video, autofocus, and low-light performance, the Sony A7S III is a versatile and powerful camera, perfect for video creators. Whether for a music video, online content, or a TV commercial, the Sony A7S III is the ideal tool for your video projects.
