Sony Alpha a7S III Mirrorless Digital Camera Body

Large pixels deliver high sensitivity and low noise

The new full-frame 12.1-megapixel
back-illuminated Exmor RTM CMOS image sensor packs major innovations in light-gathering, wiring and output optimization. These deliver blazing doubled readout speeds, superb image quality throughout the whole sensitivity range, 15-stop wide dynamic range, and reduced rolling shutter, with the sensor also providing focal-plane phase-detection AF.

Up to 8x more powerful BIONZ XRTM image processor

Along with the new sensor and its unprecedented speed, the BIONZ XR image processing engine has also been newly developed and packs up to 8x more processing power. With a future-oriented architecture, it delivers high quality images faster for superlative still and video expression, as well as dramatically improved camera interface responsiveness.

Stunning AF performance even at 4K 120p

The new Exmor R full-frame image sensor and revolutionary BIONZ XR image-processing engine deliver always-active pinpoint AF for astonishing detail in both space and time, and stunning 4K movies even at 120 frames per second or in slow motion. With the resolution and depth of field only possible from a full-frame sensor, the results are spectacular.

10-bit 4:2:2 recording

Record right on the camera with the amazing richness of 10-bit depth and 4:2:2 color sampling, for far greater flexibility in image grading, post-processing and compositing.

All-Intra encoding available

As well as Long GOP, All-Intra encoding is now provided. This encodes every frame independently at bitrates up to 600 Mbps, to capture complex motions more accurately for recording on either internal or external media, and allow more efficient editing workflows.

Superior quality and smaller files with XAVC HS

The new XAVC HS recording format uses HEVC/H.265 encoding to achieve twice the compression efficiency of AVC/H.264 encoding, for superior image quality and smaller file sizes.

Our renowned sensitivity delivers expanded ISO 409600

The renowned sensitivity of the series scales new heights, with an expanded ISO range for movies from 80 to a remarkable 409600 (standard range 80–102400). With advanced light-gathering and output optimization, the 12.1-megapixel full-frame sensor achieves low noise throughout the sensitivity range, and can capture usable images in near-total darkness.

S-Log3 gamma, S-Gamut3.Cine gamut as on pro camcorders

The S-Log3 gamma curve and S-Gamut3.Cine color gamut, shared with pro camcorders, provide wider dynamic range and easier color matching for smoother post-production workflows.

HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma)

HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) simplifies HDR production, producing footage for HLG-compatible BRAVIA TVs on the camera with no complex post-production, and smooth gradations from the 10-bit color depth.

Image quality improvements

The new BIONZ XR image processing engine delivers improvements in color reproduction, stability against different light sources, natural tonal gradation and roll-off, and reduced rolling shutter.

16-bit RAW HDMI output

For demanding post-production workflows, 16-bit RAW output
is available via HDMI connection to compatible external recorders while XAVC HS 4K, XAVC S 4K, or XAVC S-I 4K, and proxy files are simultaneously captured in-camera.

Efficient editing through proxy recording

While recording high-bitrate 4K movies, HD proxies (in 8 or 10-bit depth) can be generated in-camera. Editing the smaller proxy files reduces computer load and speeds up workflow prior to final 4K delivery.

Fast Hybrid AF for accuracy and tenacity

The wide-area AF uses intelligent tracking and on-sensor phase-detection covering most of the frame. The result is that every bit of supremely accurate and tenacious AF performance is extracted in combination with high-quality E-mount lenses, even when shooting moving subjects at shallow depths-of-field in 4K and at 120p frame rates.

Powerful focus control for solo shooters

With AF Transition Speed selectable over 7 levels, and AF Subject Shift Sensitivity over 5 levels, you can better convey your creative intentions when switching subjects or, for example, rack focusing. A simple touch can temporarily activate AF even during manual focus operation.

Real-time Eye AF for movies

Real-time Eye AF uses AI to ensure pinpoint focusing precision for eyes, with performance now improved by 30%
on profile or partially-obscured faces. Tenacious eye tracking lets you concentrate on composition even with a shallow focus depth.

Real-time Tracking with intuitive touch operation

Real-time Tracking analyzes subject color, pattern, depth, and face information to track the subject. Touch Tracking intuitively and automatically tracks a subject touched on the LCD screen.

In-body 5-axis image stabilization

A highly accurate image stabilization unit and gyro-sensor are provided, delivering 5-axis optical image stabilization.

Active Mode for hand-held shooting

The new Active Mode provides increased stabilization for movie shooting. To preserve image quality, the BIONZ XR processor accurately measures camera shake and compensates optically. This makes stable video possible even when shooting hand-held where space restraints prevent gimbal use, while walking, and at 4K resolution

Digital audio interface for clear sound recording

A digital audio interface added to the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe allows direct 24-bit input. Available settings are 48 kHz/16-bit 2-ch, and by using the optional XLR-K3M adaptor kit, 48 kHz/24-bit 2-ch and 48 kHz/24-bit 4-ch.

Unique heat dissipation, for dependable recording

A unique Sony Σ (sigma) shaped graphite heatsink is built into the image-stabilization unit. This dissipates heat 5x more effectively
for extended recording time, without interfering with image stabilization.

Movie-shooting comfort

Responding to feedback from professional users, the MOVIE button has been moved to the top face for improved operability in any shooting position. Mode dial ordering and speed of switching have also been improved.

High ISO sensitivity

With an amazingly wide standard ISO range of 80–102400 (expandable to 40–409600 for stills), the α7S III offers incredible creative opportunities. The newly-developed image sensor and image processing algorithms produce even cleaner images and more natural textures than the previous α7S II model, even when shooting in near total darkness.

Fast Hybrid AF for stills

The Fast Hybrid AF system combines speed and precision. With 759 focal plane phase-detection sensors and 425 contrast-detection points distributed across most of the image area, the α7S III quickly finds and tracks your subject throughout the frame.

Outstanding continuous shooting performance

Use your choice of mechanical or electronic shutter for continuous burst shooting, with AF/AE tracking, at up to 10 fps . Capture decisive moments with over 1,000 frames of continuous uncompressed RAW shooting possible.

Specification

Image Sensor

Sensor Type 35 mm full frame (35.6 × 23.8 mm), Exmor R® CMOS sensor

ISO Still images: ISO 80–102400 (ISO numbers up from ISO 40 to ISO 409600 can be set as expanded ISO range.), Movies: ISO 80–102400 equivalent (ISO numbers up to ISO 409600 can be set as expanded ISO range.)

Imaging

Pixel Size Approx. 12.1 megapixels

Viewfinder/Display

Viewfinder Viewfinder Type - 1.6 cm (0.64 type) electronic viewfinder (color) Monitor Type - 2.95 inch (3.0-type) wide type TFT