Sony a7R III Mirrorless Digital Camera Body

α7R III with 35 mm full-frame image sensor

Sony has introduced the third generation of its top-line 35mm sensor-based pro camera, the Sony a7R III, featuring major performance improvements combined with super-high resolution. The camera is built around a 42.4MP CMOS sensor that can capture 4K video. The company claims a wide 15-stop dynamic range, the world’s most responsive anti-shake system, increased light sensitivity coupled with improved noise reduction, and a fast 10fps burst rate for sports photography. Sony also introduced a new 24-105mm f/4 zoom lens.

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Inspiring maximum creativity

Welcome to a new world of imaging with resolution, sensitivity, dynamic range, processing speed, and shooting response further enhanced. The α7R III packs pro-style operability into a strong, compact body to give you greater flexibility to take brilliant shots in any situation. With such high power, precision, and potential at your command, you can capture once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

A portal to unseen worlds

Together, an effective 42.4MP (approx.) image sensor and enhanced image processor can take imaging as far as adventurous imaginations allow.

Seize moments with quick precision

Doubled AF tracking effectiveness, even during continuous shooting at up to 10fps, advances the evolution of steady, lightning-fast camera performance.

New portraiture potential

Greatly enhanced Eye AF focuses on and tracks an eye with great precision and speed, even when a subject is moving, is looking down and away, or is backlit.

Smooth studio workflow

SuperSpeed USB 3.1 Gen 1 enabled by a USB Type-C™ connector allows high-speed PC Remote data transfer for smooth handling of large RAW data files.

Different dimension of resolution

Pixel Shift Multi Shooting delivers overwhelming resolution, color fidelity, and texture reproduction, capturing the atmosphere of subject and environment.

More realistic movies

Movies of extraordinary presence result from innovation supporting 4K¹ HDR² images of high resolution, broad dynamic range, and wide color gamut.

Depicting scenes in intimate detail

The image processing system has evolved to deliver high resolution and low noise throughout a wider ISO range. The camera depicts the mood of every scene’s surroundings as well as texture of details.

42.4MP3 full-frame Exmor R™ CMOS sensor

The Exmor R sensor’s back-illuminated, gapless on-chip lens design increases light sensitivity and provides wide dynamic range, despite its high resolution of 42.4MP.

Greatly enhanced image processing

A new front-end LSI and BIONZ X™ boost processing speed and are teamed with the Exmor R™ sensor to deliver up to 15-stop dynamic range at low ISO sensitivity for stills, enabling richer tonal expression.

Wide standard ISO 100-32000 range

The standard ISO range has been extended to ISO 100-32000 (expandable* to ISO 50-102400), and noise has been reduced by as much as a full stop** in the mid sensitivity range.
* Expanded ISO available for still images only.
** Compared to the α7R II. Sony test conditions.

14-bit RAW output for rich gradations

14-bit RAW format output contains rich tonal information from highlights to shadows, and is available even when shooting in silent or continuous mode*.
[1] Image sensor [2] The latest high-speed front-end LSI [3] 16-bit image processing
*When uncompressed RAW is selected. Limited to 12 bits during compressed RAW continuous shooting, BULB exposure, or when Long Exposure NR is ON.

Strong, light, reliable design takes you further

High-resolution Quad-VGA OLED Tru-Finder provides natural, high-precision viewfinder image. The functional advantages of an EVF, such as high visibility in darkness and AF capability when using magnified display, is further enhanced for powerful shooting support. For even greater versatility, the α7R III’s small, light body is robust and rigid enough for rugged use.

3.69-million-dot Quad-VGA OLED Tru-Finder

This high-resolution twice-as-bright* electronic viewfinder reproduces fine detail. "Hi" quality mode provides extra-fine views of natural realism on brilliant display.
*Compared to the XGA OLED Tru-Finder in the α7R II.

Up to 10fps11 continuous shooting - In absolute Silence

Capture an instant action with continuous shooting of up to 10fps* with AF/AE tracking. Huge data of 42.4MP** imaging maintains high image quality that is advantageous for your creative trimming. This camera allows silent shooting at up to 10fps* with AF/AE tracking. Silence is critical for shooting wildlife, when even slight noise can mean missing a chance at an ideal shot.
*In continuous "Hi+" mode, and up to 8fps in continuous "Hi" mode. Maximum fps will depend on camera settings. A software update may be required for some lenses. Refer to the Sony support site for compatibility details.
**Approximate number of effective pixels

Dramatically evolved AF performance

AF performance is improved by inheriting the AF performance used in the α9 and applying it optimally, so once the α7R III captures a wild animal that moves unpredictably, it won’t easily let it go.

Comprehensive Fast Hybrid AF coverage

399 phase-detection AF points covering approx. 68% of image area width and height plus 425 densely positioned contrast-detection AF points* improve focus that might otherwise be unachievable.
*Increased from 25 contrast-detection AF points of a conventional model.

Up to 2x faster (approx.) AF response*

Thanks to much more responsive, enhanced Fast Hybrid AF, AF speed is up to approximately two times faster under dim lighting conditions.
*In low light conditions. Compared to the α7R II. Sony test conditions.

AF tracking improved by approximately 2x*

The AF algorithm inherited from the α9 accounts for two times more precise* AF tracking for continuous shooting, even of complex or sudden movement.
*Compared to the α7R II. Sony test conditions.

Reliable AF down to EV-3 brightness

Advanced AF algorithms contribute to high AF precision down to light levels as low as EV-3*, for more reliable autofocus in dark scenes.
*ISO 100 equivalent, F2.0 lens, in the AF-S mode

Never waste a moment

New multi-selector, AF-ON button, and touch focus functions make focus operation quick and intuitive. With built-in dual slots and compatibility with large-capacity rechargeable-battery NP-FZ100, the α7R III also ensures that you can shoot with far less interruption, because you won’t need to change media and battery as frequently.

Shoot up to 76 images continuously

Capture up to 76 compressed RAW* or JPEG images in a continuous burst.** This allows you to confidently concentrate on burst shooting without distraction.
*With uncompressed RAW images, up to 28 exposures.
**In continuous "Hi+" mode with UHS-II compatible SDXC memory card. Sony test conditions.

Dual media slots, UHS-II support

With two media slots, including one that’s UHS-II-compatible for fast data writing, the α7R III can simultaneously or relay record, separate RAW/JPEG data and stills/movies, and copy data between cards.

Extend shooting to professional length

The α7R III can use a NP-FZ100 battery with approx. 2.2 times as much capacity as a NP-FW50 battery. USB Type-C™ and Multi/Micro USB ports allow connection of external batteries for extended shooting.

Rating function

With rating function, you can rate recorded still images from 1 to 5 stars anywhere right on the spot, using the playback screen to perform the function if it is assigned to a custom button.

Grouping display for continuous shots

A series of photos shot in continuous mode can be reviewed as groups, play index display is improved, and continuous groups can be deleted or protected at once.

My Menu: faster to your favorites

Register up to 30 frequently used items on the new My Menu for instant recall. You can create and customize an optimal menu for your own convenience.

Eye AF with doubled performance

With the α7R III, Eye AF evolves with two times* more immediate, effective eye detection and tracking, even when shooting a moving portrait subject. Even if face is partially hidden, eyes looking down or dim lighting.
*Compared to the α7R II. Sony test conditions.

Enhanced image stabilization: freer shooting

Thanks to enhanced 5-axis in-camera image stabilizer, whenever you want to move and shoot freely, you can rely on the α7R III’s high-resolution performance and mobility, in order to concentrate on the subject without worrying about various types of camera-shake blur. Featuring Pitch & yaw compensation, horizontal/vertical shift compensation and roll compensation.

5-axis optical in-body image stabilization

New stabilization unit/gyro sensors/algorithms effectively raise 5.5 stops*. Five types of camera shake — angular shake (pitch/yaw), X/Y shift, and rotational shake (roll) — are compensated.
*CIPA standards. Pitch/yaw shake only. Planar T* FE 50mm F1.4 ZA lens. Long exposure NR off.

High connectivity for professional workflow

The α7R III includes USB 3.1 Gen 1 compatible USB Type-C™ port and sync terminals that enable the camera to be connected directly to external devices without delay. These connections make workflow more seamless and stress-free, even for studio shooting that makes use of PC tethered shooting or flash.

USB 3.1 Gen 1 for fast data transfer

This makes PC tethered shooting available for smooth handling of big RAW image files, so you can quickly review images on a PC and continue shooting without much delay for file transfers.

Sync terminal available

A standard sync terminal is provided for convenient synchronization with studio flash units and other external lighting equipment.

New Sony imaging software suite

A new suite of imaging apps provides top-quality RAW development, convenient PC tethering, and efficient viewing/management.*
*Does not support full functional compatibility with some of the camera models.

Capture One (for Sony)

Capture One Express (for Sony) is free software for high-quality finishing of RAW data. Capture One Pro (for Sony) can be bought for such compatible functions as local adjustment and PC tethered shooting.

Pixel Shift Multi Shooting

This new Pixel Shift Multi Shooting* reproduces still images that contain true-to-life detail, texture, color, and overall atmosphere.
[1] Normal single image [2] Composited image with Pixel Shift Multi Shooting

*Image compositing may not be successful if camera or subject movement causes blur. The use of a tripod is recommended, as is the use of PC remote function or a remote commander where possible. Uncompressed RAW format and silent mode are automatically selected for Pixel Shift Multi shooting. Some restrictions apply to flash and other devices.

High-resolution 4K HDR with Oversampling

In addition to capability to record stunning high-resolution 4K movies* through 5K (15MP) oversampling, the camera features a new HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma)** picture profile, supporting instant HDR workflow, that offers wide dynamic range for highly precise and lifelike movie images without color grading. You can shoot and internally record 4K movies1 oversampled from 5K (15MP) equivalent data in Super 35mm format. The results are startlingly beautiful in every detail.
* A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC card is required for XAVC S format movie recording. UHS Speed Class 3 or higher card is required for 100Mbps recording.
** Connect this product to an HDR (HLG) compatible Sony TV via a USB cable when displaying HDR (HLG) movies.

Supporting various needs in HDR production

The α7R III features S-Log for flexible expression of images in post-production and HLG* for instantaneous HDR workflow — a combination that fulfills various HDR production requirements.

[1] High flexibility to fine-tune images as desired (Color grading required)
[2] Instant and high-quality image (Color grading not required)
* Connect this product to an HDR (HLG) compatible Sony TV via a USB cable when displaying HDR (HLG) movies.

A new HLG* picture profile supports instantaneous HDR workflow. Movies recorded in HLG picture mode will appear true-to-life with suppressed blocked shadows or blown highlights, without color grading.
*Connect this product to an HDR (HLG) compatible Sony TV via a USB cable when displaying HDR (HLG) movies.

a7R III 35 mm full-frame camera with autofocus
An entirely renewed image processing system further enhances image quality. Up to approximately 2x improved AF speed, AF tracking, and Eye AF tracking performance and up to 10fps continuous shooting allow more decisive moments to be captured. Reliable pro-style operability packed within a strong, compact body provides superior flexibility and mobility.

Back-illuminated 42.4 MP full-frame sensor
The 35 mm full-frame Exmor R CMOS image sensor features 42.4-megapixel resolution, back illumination and gapless on-chip lens design for extraordinary sensitivity and dynamic range, anti-reflection (AR) coating on sensor seal glass, and other innovations that unleash the sensor's power to make images look realistic.

Further enhanced image processing engine
The latest front-end LSI makes data readout from the image sensor approximately two times faster and the BIONZ X image processor is now about 1.8 times faster. Enhanced image processing realizes lower noise and further extended dynamic range across a wide sensitivity range of up to ISO 32000 (standard ISO, expandable to ISO 50-102400 for stills). Moreover, upgraded Detail Reproduction and Area-specific Noise Reduction achieves noise reduction - equivalent of approx. one stop - in mid-range ISO settings. Also, reproduction of skin color has been dramatically improved, which is advantageous for portrait shooting. The a7R III also supports 14-bit RAW output even during silent shooting/continuous shooting.

A quantum leap in AF performance
An evolved image processing system and a9 camera. AF algorithms optimized for the a7R III improve AF speed, precision, and tracking performance. 399 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection AF points provide high-density wide-area coverage. Up to approximately two times faster AF speed and two times more precise AF tracking performance let you capture and maintain focus on nimble wildlife in unpredictable motion. The a7R III also autofocuses reliably down to EV-3 brightness.

Eye AF with doubled tracking performance
Eye AF's enhanced precision, plus two times greater AF speed and AF tracking performance2 further assist you to easily shoot a portrait of a moving subject using AF-C even during continuous shooting, and even if the subject looks down and away from the camera, or is backlit with face in partial darkness. The a7R III's E-mount body supports Eye AF for A-mount lenses7 mounted via an adapter.

Focal-plane phase-detection AF supports A-mount lenses
Phase-detection AF can operate even when an A-mount lens is mounted to the a7R III via an LA-EA3 adapter that doesn't include a dedicated phase detection AF sensor. The 399-point focal-plane phase-detection AF system provides wide-area coverage, fast response, and high-performance tracking whether an A-mount or E-mount lens is attached.

Up to 10fps with AF/AE tracking
With new shutter unit and image processing system refinements, the a7R III can shoot continuously at up to 10fps with AF/AE tracking (up to 8fps with minimal display lag in live-view continuous shooting mode) for easy, stable shooting of even intensely active subjects. An electronic shutter allows silent, vibration-free shooting of wildlife when even slight noise can mean missing an ideal shot.

Up to 76 images in continuous shooting
Greater buffer memory, system speed, and UHS-II support allow the a7R III to capture up to approx. 28 uncompressed RAW, or 76 compressed RAW or JPEG images, in a continuous burst at 10fps. Fn menu/menu display access, setting changes and review playback can occur during data writing. A countdown of the number of still images remaining to be written to memory is on display during playback.

AF-ON button and multi-selector
The AF-ON button activates autofocus without any half-press-shutter-button focus sequence, so you can concentrate better on exactly when to release the shutter and capture the moment instantly. A multi-selector lets you shift the point of focus quickly and efficiently. You can select and shift the point of focus intuitively, so you won't miss great chances to shoot moving subjects.

Anti-flicker shooting
Flicker from fluorescent and other artificial lighting is automatically detected and shutter action is timed to minimize the flicker's effect on still images. This suppresses exposure and color anomalies at the top and bottom of images shot at high shutter speeds, as well as exposure and color inconsistency between continuous shots, so you can take images indoors with more confidence.

In-body 5-axis image stabilization with up to 5.5-stop shutter speed advantage
Now more effective than ever for the a series, this comprehensive system compensates for five types of camera shake that tend to blur images: pitch/yaw shake when shooting at longer focal lengths; X/Y shake in close-up (including macro) shooting; and roll shake when recording stills at night and movies. It effectively achieves 5.5-stop-faster shutter speed, so the a7R III can take full advantage of its 42.4-megapixel and live-view image performance. Furthermore, it functions with A-mount lenses attached via mount adapter, as well as E-mount lenses.

Pixel Shift Multi Shooting opens a new world of resolution
Applying mechanisms and control technology of image stabilization, this new feature composites four separate pixel-shifted images that contain total data equal to approx. 169.6 million, or 42.4 million x 4 (RGGB), pixels to reproduce a single optimal still image of super-high resolution, detailed texture, balanced color, and realistic atmosphere, with minimal moire and color artifacts. Images shot using this feature can be processed with the new Sony imaging software suite. The image sensor is moved in 1-pixel increments while shooting four sequential frames. Each pixel represents R, G, and B information.

AE precision that's faithful to a photographer's intentions
A 1200-segment live-view exposure analysis makes color analysis and metering precise. Focus information from the lens keeps AE control and image brightness consistent even when subject position or background brightness changes. Highlight and Entire Screen Average metering modes now join the a7R III's Multi, Center, and Spot metering modes. When the Focus Area parameter is set to Flexible Spot or Expand Flexible Spot, the metering spot can be linked to the focus area.

Dual slots with UHS-II compatibility
This camera provides two media slots for SD card (UHS-II-compatible for fast data writing) and SD/MS card, respectively. Two cards in the slots can be used to simultaneously record or relay record data, separate RAW data from JPEG data, or stills from movies, and copy data from one card to the other. The memory card cover is lockable to prevent it from being opened unintentionally.

3.69-million-dot, high-luminance Quad-VGA OLED Tru-Finder
This approximately 3.69-million-dot Quad-VGA OLED Tru-Finder provides accurate detail, contrast, and black reproduction, while maintaining natural image brightness. High-quality mode, suitable for fine focus adjustment, takes full advantage of rich image data from the image sensor to display more natural high-precision images with minimal moire and jagginess, so you can concentrate more on shooting. Furthermore, you can choose 120/100fps from the selection of frame rates for the viewfinder to make motion look particularly smooth. Only an EVF such as this one could offer features such as a powerfully enhanced focus magnifier that allows autofocus while a chosen focus area is magnified in the viewfinder.

Touch screen LCD for intuitive focus operations
A 3.0-type LCD touch screen with 1.44 million dots makes focus operation intuitive and instant. You can simply touch the monitor screen to specify a desired focus point with Touch Focus. Also, the Touch Pad function lets you drag the focus frame to another point with a fingertip on the LCD screen as you monitor the shot through the viewfinder.

Shoot for more professional lengths
For extended periods of confident shooting, the NP-FZ100 battery has approximately 2.2 times the capacity of a NP-FW50 battery, and an optional VG-C3EM Vertical Grip can hold two batteries. USB Type-C and Multi/Micro USB ports allow external mobile batteries to power the camera for extended recording. Even more conveniently, accessories such as a remote control unit can be used via Multi/Micro USB port while power is supplied via USB Type-C port.

Highly durable and operable in tough conditions
The a7R III functions reliably in challenging environments. Its body is fortified by lightweight, high-rigidity magnesium alloy top cover, front cover, internal frame, and rear cover. The number of lens mount screws has been increased to six for enhanced durability. Major buttons and dials are sealed. Sealing is provided throughout the body to minimize entry of dust and moisture.

Smooth PC tethering via USB 3.1 Gen 1 port
A USB Type-C port supporting fast USB 3.1 Gen 1 facilitates high-speed PC Remote transfer of large RAW data files, so you can quickly review images on a PC and continue shooting without delay. Also, a setting to transfer only JPEG files to PC lets you check images via PC even more quickly after continuous shooting because the camera doesn't have to send big volumes of RAW data.