Tips

Young Creators Spotlight: Capturing elusive wildlife moments with Tan Lu San

Calvin — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 08:23:15 +0000

Young Creators Spotlight: Capturing elusive wildlife moments with Tan Lu San

Calvin Fri, 08/02/2024 - 13:53

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 9 III

Lens Category

FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS

Alpha 9 III | FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS | 320mm | 1/20000s | F6.3 | ISO 250

Lu San's journey into photography began when he was 20 years old, drawing on his media design background from his Polytechnic diploma course. Realising the need for practical experience, he bought his first camera, the Sony Alpha 1, in October 2020. Starting with butterflies and flowers in parks, he quickly discovered a love for photography. The Alpha 1 provided him with the advanced features necessary to capture stunning wildlife shots. As he honed his skills, his focus gradually shifted towards bird photography.

Alpha 9 III | FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS | 600mm | 1/3200s | F6.3 | ISO 6400

I have had an interest in nature and exploration ever since I was young… I always wondered how they capture such incredible shots of wildlife.”

From curiosity to craft

Lu San’s interest in birding was piqued by the diverse bird species he encountered in Singapore, both resident and migratory. Inspired by birds' vibrant colours and unique behaviours, he dedicated himself to mastering the art of bird photography, finding joy and fulfilment in capturing the beauty and intricacies of avian life.

The need for speed

The challenge of capturing these elusive avians required quick reflexes and intense concentration, skills at which Lu San excelled, thanks in part to his gaming hobby. Recognising the need for a camera that could match this speed and precision, he decided to try his hand at shooting with the lightning-fast Alpha 9 III. Taking notice of his immense passion for photography, Sony Singapore granted Lu San the opportunity to shoot with the latest addition to the Alpha 9 line-up.

The Alpha 9 III features the world's first full-frame image sensor with a global shutter system, revolutionising the capture of fast-moving subjects. This technology eliminates image distortion and preserves split-second moments in stunning detail, making it a game changer for bird photography. The camera's advanced capabilities allow Lu San to photograph birds in flight with exceptional clarity and precision.

The Alpha 9 III is without a doubt the best camera right now for capturing peak action.”

The power of one frame

The Alpha 9 III's features, such as 120fps RAW shooting and AI autofocus, have been invaluable for Lu San in nailing critical moments. Additionally, the ultra-fast 1/80,000 second shutter speed helps prevent blown-out highlights when he's shooting creative backlit photos, ensuring every detail is captured perfectly.

Pre-Capture helped me capture the perfect shot…even before I pressed my shutter.”

Never miss a moment with Pre-Capture

One feature that has been a game-changer for Lu San’s photography is the Alpha 9 III’s Pre-Capture function. This function ensures that no key moment is missed, allowing him to capture moments just before the shutter is released. This feature has been invaluable for bird photography, where subjects can be unpredictable and fast-moving. There have been instances where the Pre-Capture function enabled him to capture peak action moments that would have otherwise been missed.

Our commitment to young creators

Lu San's journey from a media design student to a prominent wildlife photographer highlights the importance of passion, dedication, and the right gear.

Sony is committed to supporting young creators like Lu San by providing access to advanced technology and opportunities. We look forward to more creators who are enthusiastic about photography and will continue to support the next generation of talent. Lu San's story is just the beginning, with many more inspiring journeys anticipated in the world of photography.

Status

Pending Approval

Products

Featured

Alpha 9 III

Máy ảnh toàn khung hình với màn trập bao trùm

FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS

Ống kính thu phóng G Super-tele để chụp toàn khung hình

Article Theme

Bird/Wildlife

Defy the limits of speed and embrace precision with Chong Yew

Calvin — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 08:08:36 +0000

Defy the limits of speed and embrace precision with Chong Yew

Calvin Fri, 08/02/2024 - 13:38

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 9 III

Lens Category

FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM

FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS

Alpha 9 III | FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS | 400mm | 1/1600s | F2.8 | ISO 500

Sports photography demands precision and every photographer requires a camera that can capture milliseconds of high-stakes action in crystal clarity. Alpha Photographer Chong Yew knows he can count on the Alpha 9 III to perfectly freeze the moment where toil meets triumph, immortalising an athlete’s moment of glory.

The Alpha 9 III features the world's first full-frame image sensor with a global shutter system, being a game changer in capturing fast-moving subjects with absolutely no image distortion and preserving split-second moments in stunning detail. In his latest photoshoot, Chong Yew put the Alpha 9 III to the test by capturing the dynamic action of a soccer and basketball game.

Alpha 9 III | FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS | 400mm | 1/1600s | F2.8 | ISO 500

Boost your shooting speed by the millisecond

When working with dynamic subjects, you’ll want to freeze every millisecond of action leading to the pivotal moment. The Alpha 9 III’s Continuous Shooting Speed Boost is especially useful in these situations as it temporarily boosts your shooting speed while shooting burst shots. With its ability to capture 120 frames per second of RAW files, the Alpha 9 III delivers maximum dynamic range and top-notch image quality.

Alpha 9 III | FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II | 1/1250s | F2.8 | ISO 6400

My go-to is shooting at 30 or 60 frames per second, but when that critical moment arises, it’s sometimes not enough,” Chong Yew said. “This is when I’ll hit the custom button on the Alpha 9 III to unleash 120fps Continuous Shooting Speed Boost, capturing every single beat.”

In addition, the Alpha 9 III’s Composite RAW Shooting allows Chong Yew to merge multiple images captured on his camera with Sony's Imaging Edge Desktop software to create full-resolution pictures with reduced noise, making it possible for him to create composite images of his subjects moving at the speed of light.

Alpha 9 III | FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS | 400mm | 1/1600s | F2.8 | ISO 500

Save the moment before the shutter goes off

Another feature that stood out to Chong Yew was Pre-capture, which allows photographers to capture moments before the shutter is released, from 0.005 seconds up to 1 second. When a pivotal moment unfolds, all Chong Yew has to do is fully press the shutter for the Alpha 9 III to seamlessly capture all the frames from the previous second with flawless autofocus.

Alpha 9 III | FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM | 16mm | 1/1250s | F2.8 | ISO 6400

A game-changer for sports photography

Not only do the above features of the Alpha 9 III guarantee picture-perfect shots at every moment, but they also open up creative opportunities for Chong Yew. “The Alpha 9 III has given me a newfound confidence in capturing athletes at the peak of their performances, elevating my sports photography to new heights,” he said.

Status

Pending Approval

Products

Featured

Alpha 9 III

Máy ảnh toàn khung hình với màn trập bao trùm

FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM

Ống kính thu phóng siêu rộng G Master để chụp toàn khung hình

FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II

Ống kính Zoom Telephoto G Master dành cho máy ảnh Full frame

FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS

Ống kính cao cấp siêu tele G Master để chụp toàn khung hình

Article Theme

Sports/Action

Shoot at the speed of light with Nicky Loh

Calvin — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 07:48:56 +0000

Shoot at the speed of light with Nicky Loh

Calvin Fri, 08/02/2024 - 13:18

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 9 III

Lens Category

FE 35mm F1.4 GM

FE 50mm F1.4 GM

Alpha 9 III | FE 50mm F1.4 GM | 50 mm | 1/6400 sec | F2.2 | ISO 400

When shooting dynamic scenes, you’ll want to capture every split second in spectacular detail, controlling ambient light and freezing action. This can be especially tricky when shooting outdoors in harsh daylight. Alpha Photographer Nicky Loh tests the game-changing Alpha 9 III’s flash sync feature in a conceptual photoshoot featuring Wushu martial artists.

Featuring the world's first full-frame image sensor with a global shutter system, the Alpha 9 III preserves split-second moments in stunning detail, with no image distortion. In his latest photoshoot, Nicky managed to freeze the Wushu martial artists in action, immortalising his subjects' elegant movements and skilled weaponry within split seconds.

Turn day into night with flash sync

The Alpha 9 III features a first-of-its-kind full flash synchronisation up to a maximum of 1/80000 seconds. Most cameras feature a standard flash sync speed of 1/200 seconds, which limits ambient light control in situations where the subject is backlit. Photographers will thus have to dial their shutter speed up to achieve proper exposure in their shots.

Alpha 9 III | FE 50mm F1.4 GM | 50 mm | 1/5000 sec | F2.8 | ISO 400

In this Wushu photoshoot, Nicky captured a clear shot of his backlit subject with a shutter speed of 1/5000 seconds. The overexposure was fixed in a snap, reducing the backlighting and shifting the illumination on his subject instead.

To get a proper exposure, I’ll dial the shutter speed to 1/2500 seconds and the flash works perfectly without the issues of high-speed sync,” Nicky said.

Alpha 9 III | FE 35mm F1.4 GM | 35 mm | 1/4000 sec | F2.8 | ISO 200

Fire every pixel in one shot

Even with fast-moving subjects, the Global Shutter ensures no distortion in any part of the image. This is demonstrated in a crystal-clear shot of a martial artist wielding a cudgel. Moving props would normally appear bent due to the speed at which a rolling shutter captures an image. However, the cudgel was perfectly straight when he wielded it, preserving the moment with remarkable clarity.

Alpha 9 III | FE 35mm F1.4 GM | 35 mm | 1/5000 sec | F2.8 | ISO 400

With its ground-breaking technology and features, the Alpha 9 III allows any photographer to defy speed and craft visual masterpieces that directly translate their visions into reality. Nicky is particularly pleased with the Alpha 9 III’s capability of keeping up with his workflow and his subjects’ swift movements.

Alpha 9 III | FE 50mm F1.4 GM | 50 mm | 1/10000 sec | F2.8 | ISO 500

Paving the way for the future of imaging

With its incredible speed and remarkable precision, Nicky is confident that the Alpha 9 III will take his creativity to new heights as he embarks on more ambitious photoshoots in challenging shooting conditions, featuring fast-moving subjects. “The Alpha 9 III has elevated my commercial work to the next level and I’m now inspired to create more,” he said.

Status

Pending Approval

Products

Featured

Alpha 9 III

Máy ảnh toàn khung hình với màn trập bao trùm

FE 35mm F1.4 GM

Ống kính cao cấp rộng G Master để chụp toàn khung hình

FE 50mm F1.4 GM

Ống kính cao cấp tiêu chuẩn G Master để chụp toàn khung hình

Article Theme

3 Simple Steps to Make Creative Look Yours

Calvin — Wed, 08 May 2024 08:30:13 +0000

3 Simple Steps to Make Creative Look Yours

Calvin Wed, 05/08/2024 - 14:00

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 7C II

Lens Category

FE 24-50mm F2.8 G

What is Creative Look?

Creative Look is a preset available within selected Sony cameras that offers 10 unique preset looks. These looks are achieved by changing a combination of settings from colour tone and contrast, to saturation, sharpness, brightness and more.

Full-Frame Sony camera benefits like accurate Eye AF tracking, smooth bokeh and a wide dynamic range, coupled with the convenience of Creative Look, unlock a whole world of creative possibilities.

Let’s take a look at 4 popular Creative Look presets in particular with stills taken with the Alpha 7C II.

IN - Instant Preset | Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 50mm | 1/640 sec | F2.8 | ISO 100

SH - Soft HighKey Preset | Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 48mm | 1/2000 sec | F2.8 | ISO 320

FL - Film Preset | Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 44mm | 1/500 sec | F2.8 | ISO 100

VV2 - Vivid 2 Preset | Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 27mm | 1/2000 sec | F2.8 | ISO 125

You can further customise each Creative Look to suit the mood that you’re going for.

Customise Creative Look in 3 simple steps

Step 1 Select your preferred preset

Step 2 You can change parameters such as:

Contrast
Highlights
Shadows
Fading
Saturation
Sharpness
Sharpness range
Clarity

Step 3 Adjust the colour temperature, through White Balance Adjustment

Preset parameters that you can save

To help you get started, follow our tutorial videos for a guide on how to customise presets in-camera. If you love the look in our sample stills and videos, save the preset parameters for later!

Status

Pending Approval

Status

Pending Approval

Creative Look is available on Alpha 7S III, 7R V, 7CR, 7 IV, 7C II, 6700, ZV-E1, ZV-1 II, ZV-1F.

Products

Featured

Alpha 7C II

Máy ảnh full-frame nhỏ gọn

FE 24-50mm F2.8 G

Ống kính Zoom tiêu chuẩn G dành cho máy ảnh Full frame

Article Theme

Portrait

VLOG

Nailing the Aesthetic with Creative Look

Calvin — Wed, 08 May 2024 07:13:17 +0000

Nailing the Aesthetic with Creative Look

Calvin Wed, 05/08/2024 - 12:43

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 7C II

Lens Category

FE 24-50mm F2.8 G

Applying Creative Look Presets

With 10 dynamic presets, the Creative Look enables you to effortlessly create stunning visuals according to your desired mood. To explore the different types of Creative Look presets available, click here.

To select a Creative Look preset, press the Fn (function) button on your camera while on your shooting screen. Then, select Creative Look from the function menu to see all the preset options displayed on your screen. You can also preview the colour tones as you toggle through different looks.

Choosing Your Preferred Mood

This article will explore four specific Creative Look presets: VV2, FL, IN, and SH, detailing the optimal conditions and scenarios for using each, while showcasing samples captured with the Alpha 7C II full-frame camera.

Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 27mm | 1/2000 sec | F2.8 | ISO 125

View full image

Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 50mm | 1/2500 sec | F2.8 | ISO 200

View full image

VV2

The VV2, or Vivid 2 Preset enhances images by adding brightness and vibrancy to colours. It is especially effective for making colourful subjects and scenes pop and brightening up pale or dull colours during high-key shooting or in cloudy conditions.

Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 44mm | 1/500 sec | F2.8 | ISO 100

View full image

Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 50mm | 1/100 sec | F2.8 | ISO 640

View full image

FL

The FL, or Film Preset, subtly softens certain colours and enhances contrast, achieving a nostalgic look that transports viewers back in time. This preset is particularly useful for photographers aiming to infuse their images with a vintage charm, making it excellent for portraits or scenes that benefit from a softer, more timeless aesthetic.

Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 50mm | 1/640 sec | F2.8 | ISO 100

View full image

Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 37mm | 1/400 sec | F2.8 | ISO 160

View full image

IN

The IN, or Instant Preset reduces contrast and saturation for a matte look. This preset is recommended for creating an elegant ambience or producing dignified stills and videos.

Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 50mm | 1/2000 sec | F2.8 | ISO 500

View full image

Alpha 7C II | FE 24-50mm F2.8 G | 50mm | 1/400 sec | F2.8 | ISO 160

View full image

SH

The SH, or Soft Highkey Preset produces a bright atmosphere characterised by transparency, softness, and vibrancy. This preset is great for achieving a delicate and gentle mood in both stills and videos.

Customising Creative Look Presets

The Creative Look feature provides extensive customisation options, including adjustments for:

Contrast
Highlights
Shadows
Fading
Saturation
Sharpness
Sharpness range
Clarity

Once you've created your ideal look, you can save it as a custom preset for future use. This functionality also allows you to save variations of the same mode, enabling you to apply different versions of your favourite presets to suit various scenes.

Status

Pending Approval

FL Preset & VV2 Preset

Status

Pending Approval

SH Preset & IN Preset

Shoot Fuss-free Today!

Creative Look is a user-friendly feature that lets you experiment with unique visual styles directly from your camera, without the need for complex post-production. With various presets available, even beginners can express a wide range of moods and tones in their photos using Creative Look. For additional inspiration and tips on using the Creative Look feature, visit Sony Asia's YouTube Shorts at https://www.youtube.com/@sonyasia/shorts.

Products

Featured

Alpha 7C II

Máy ảnh full-frame nhỏ gọn

FE 24-50mm F2.8 G

Ống kính Zoom tiêu chuẩn G dành cho máy ảnh Full frame

Article Theme

Portrait

VLOG

Enchanting Vietnam through the lens of @spookylens | Featuring FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Calvin — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 08:45:50 +0000

Enchanting Vietnam through the lens of @spookylens | Featuring FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Calvin Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:15

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 7R V

Lens Category

FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Lens highlights | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Why Woo-guen chose FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Travel Q&A with Woo-guen

Choi Woo-geun, better known as @spookylens on Instagram, is a South Korean brand photographer. When not hard at work, he captures his love for the great outdoors in the form of scenic landscape photos and dynamic street snaps. His adventurous spirit took him to Vietnam, where he discovered the coexistence of breathtaking natural landscapes and bustling urban life.

We sat down with Woo-geun to talk about his latest escapade to Vietnam and the breathtaking sights he captured with his Alpha 7R V and FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 86 mm | 1/320 sec | F4 | ISO 100

Lens highlights | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

The FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II is a next-generation telephoto zoom lens with pinpoint sharpness and half-macro performance throughout its zoom range. No matter if you’re shooting from up close or at a distance, this handy lens has got you covered. It is also highly compact, making it ideal for travel photographers to carry on the move.

Focal length: 70-200mm
Min. focus distance: 0.26-0.42m
Max. magnification ratio (X): 0.5
Weight: 794g

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 140 mm | 1/800 sec | F5.6 | ISO 400

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 200 mm | 1/400 sec | F4 | ISO 400

I wanted to capture the beauty of both the city and the great outdoors, as well as the moments of the local people and the landscapes they live in through my photographs.”

Why Woo-guen chose FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

According to Woo-guen, the moment that captures the photographer's heart passes by very quickly when taking street photos. As such, the fast subject recognition and AF tracking capabilities of the FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II when paired with the Alpha 7R V helped him tremendously in capturing decisive moments on the move. Moreover, when shooting outdoors all day, the weight of one’s gear can weigh a photographer down. Woo-guen appreciates the compactness of the FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II, which allowed him to shoot for longer without feeling the weight of a typical telephoto lens.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 126 mm | 1/500 sec | F4 | ISO 400

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 200 mm | 1/500 sec | F4 | ISO 400

Travel Q&A with Woo-guen

Tell us more about your choice of equipment.

I used the Alpha 7R V and FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II combination for this particular trip. The Alpha 7R V is a high-resolution camera that excels in capturing details in travel and landscape photography, making it my primary choice for most of my recent personal projects. Although compact, the FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS Iens offers an incredible focal length of 70-200mm and never fails to deliver excellent imagery.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 86 mm | 1/320 sec | F4 | ISO 100

What made you want to visit Vietnam for your photography escapade?

I wanted to travel to a place where I could capture both urban and natural landscapes in one trip. As I sifted through destinations, Hanoi came on top of my list as it has both bustling cityscapes and stunning natural scenery on the outskirts.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 96 mm | 1/320 sec | F5.6 | ISO 200

Even in a bustling urban city like Hanoi, you can easily encounter traces of the past in their traditional attire, food, and architecture. It's also a fascinating place where you can witness the chaotic and vibrant scene of countless motorcycles and cars intertwining. Walking through this city where the past and present coexist, you can capture some amazing street photos. Moreover, just outside of Hanoi, there are fantastic places where you can witness the beauty of karst landscapes. These locations offer breathtaking scenery for capturing landscape photos.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 95 mm | 1/80 sec | F4 | ISO 1600

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 70 mm | 1/400 sec | F4 | ISO 100

What should you be mindful of when taking photos in Vietnam?

No matter where you travel for a shoot, the most important factor is lighting. It's crucial to be aware of the direction, type, and amount of light whenever you take a photo. I recommend simulating and understanding the shooting situation and the available lighting before you press the shutter. You may also check the weather and a map of your destination on the internet before making a trip down so that you can anticipate shooting conditions.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 70 mm | 1/160 sec | F4 | ISO 200

Travel is always enjoyable, but taking photos is a challenge that excites.”

Get inspired

If you’ve been inspired by Woo-guen’s adventure and plan to make a trip of your own to Vietnam, Woo-geun recommends that you visit the rainy countryside of Ninh Binh, which is a 3-hour drive from Hanoi. All in all, Woo-guen recommends the FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II to any travel photographer. “It’s the perfect travel companion for long periods of outdoor shooting while maintaining an excellent image quality throughout the zoom range.”

Products

Featured

Alpha 7R V

Full Frame High Resolution Camera with AI processing

FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Ống kính zoom tele dòng G dành cho máy ảnh Full frame

Article Theme

Nature/Landscapes

Travel

VLOG

Glorious Germany through the lens of @withkhyun | Featuring FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Calvin — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 03:01:23 +0000

Glorious Germany through the lens of @withkhyun | Featuring FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Calvin Mon, 03/25/2024 - 08:31

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 7CR

Lens Category

FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM

Lens highlights | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Why Seok-Hyun chose FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Travel Q&A with Seok-Hyun

South Korean filmmaker Park Seok-Hyun, recognised as @withkhyun on Instagram, is acclaimed for his captivating cinematic outdoor and travel videography. During his latest journey, Seok-Hyun artfully encapsulates the enchanting streets and architecture of Germany, renowned for its rich cultural heritage.

Discover Seok-Hyun's creative approach as he shares insights into how he utilised the powerful FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens to showcase Germany's diverse and picturesque scenes.

Lens highlights | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Seize moments with the versatile FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens. This wide-angle zoom lens has a wide maximum aperture of F2.8, which allows photographers to capture stunning shots even in challenging lighting conditions. This feature makes it a reliable choice for night photography, indoor settings, or any situation where you need to maintain image quality in low light.

Focal Length: 16mm - 35mm
Min. focus distance: 0.22 (W,T)m / 0.73 (W,T)ft
Max. magnification ratio (x): 0.32
Weight: 547g

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 18 mm | 1/30 sec | F2.8 | ISO 500

While lightweight, the lens consistently delivers sharp resolution and satisfying results.”

Why Seok-Hyun chose FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Seok-Hyun believes that the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens was the perfect choice for capturing every moment. This was especially true during his trip to Germany, where he beautifully captured the vibrant holiday lights during the Christmas season. Despite the lens’s lightweight design, it provided consistently sharp resolution, providing him with incredibly satisfying results, even in low-light conditions.

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 35 mm | 1/50 sec | F2.8 | ISO 320

Travel Q&A with Seok-Hyun

What equipment did you take with you on this trip?

During this shoot in Germany, I opted for the Sony Alpha 7CR camera paired with the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens. I considered the distance I had to travel and the need for a high-resolution camera body, which was essential for future prints and exhibitions. Furthermore, I selected this equipment to capture landscape photos during the Christmas season, where ultra-high image quality was imperative. Thanks to the lightweight yet optically superior camera and lens combination, I was able to achieve excellent results.

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 35 mm | 1/50 sec | F2.8 | ISO 320

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 35 mm | 6 sec | F2.8 | ISO 64

What should you be mindful of when shooting in low light?

It's best to avoid high ISO settings in situations with abundant red lights. Maintaining a clean image is crucial to effectively convey the emotional impact in each section of the image. I recommend lowering the shutter speed as much as possible to aid in capturing the shot. ISO settings of 400 or lower are suitable, and a shutter speed of 1/5 second can be used without any blurriness, thanks to the support of optical technology.

However, to achieve the best results, precise white balance (WB) adjustment is essential. Instead of relying on automatic settings, finely tune the red lighting using a colour temperature filter.

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 33 mm | 1/80 sec | F2.8 | ISO 2500

Which location left the most lasting impression?

The end of the year feels like a festival, no matter where you are. It's a time to prepare for welcoming the new year with joy after all the hard work done throughout the year. I wanted to capture the overall mood rather than a specific place in my photos. As expected, the images came out nicely. I was delighted with the results when using the Alpha 7CR and FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II together, so I worked harder to capture the perfect shots. Among them, I remember the beauty of an afternoon in Dresden's Christmas market, where all the lights came on.

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 33 mm | 1/80 sec | F2.8 | ISO 2500

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 34 mm | 1/400 sec | F2.8 | ISO 2500

I love capturing unique moments that people around the world experience.”

Get inspired

When discussing his future plans, Seok-Hyun envisions producing a range of photographic works that the public can directly engage with. Like the results achieved during this Christmas season, his goal is to “participate in activities that inspire the public through various seasonal photoshoots."

Products

Featured

Alpha 7CR

Máy ảnh full-frame nhỏ gọn 61 MP

Article Theme

Vibrant Hong Kong through the lens of @withkhyun | Featuring FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Calvin — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:03:41 +0000

Vibrant Hong Kong through the lens of @withkhyun | Featuring FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Calvin Fri, 03/22/2024 - 14:33

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 7CR

Lens highlights | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Why Seok-Hyun chose FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

Travel Q&A with Seok-Hyun

South Korean filmmaker Park Seok-Hyun, known as @withkhyun on Instagram, has gained recognition for his captivating cinematic outdoor and travel videography. In one of his latest expeditions, Seok-Hyun masterfully captures the vibrant spirit of Hong Kong, one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

Explore Seok-Hyun's creative approach as he shares insights into how he utilised the capabilities of the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens to showcase Hong Kong's vibrant street scenes.

Lens highlights | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

The FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens is the ultimate wide-angle zoom for photographers. It’s compact and lightweight while delivering outstanding image quality and precision. Whether you're capturing landscapes or street scenes, this lens combines versatility with superior performance, making it a go-to choice for photographers seeking exceptional results.

Focal Length: 16mm - 35mm
Min. focus distance: 0.22 (W,T)m / 0.73 (W,T)ft
Max. magnification ratio (x): 0.32
Weight: 547g

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 35 mm | 1/400 sec | F3.5 | ISO 160

This lens…offers exceptional performance that enables the creation of artistic masterpieces.”

Why Seok-Hyun chose FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II

During his shoot in Hong Kong, which primarily focused on capturing night scenes, Seok-Hyun needed a lens with exceptional optical performance. It had to capture intricate details in ultra-high-resolution areas, including those often overlooked by the naked eye, and extend to the periphery of the frame. The FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II exceeded his expectations by consistently delivering clean, sharp images, even in low-light conditions.

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 35 mm | 1/13 sec | F2.8 | ISO 80

Travel Q&A with Seok-Hyun

Why did you choose Hong Kong as your travel destination?

Hong Kong has a unique beauty characterised by its vibrant neon signs and harmonious blend of Eastern and Western architecture. The towering buildings and dazzling lights are sights that cannot be captured in a single glance, so I chose Hong Kong for this location to express them through optical techniques.

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 35 mm | 1/20 sec | F3.5 | ISO 80

What equipment did you take with you on this trip?

During my shoot in Hong Kong, I utilised the Sony Alpha 7CR paired with the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens. Both the camera body and the lens I selected met my criteria, offering the best performance tailored to my needs. Consequently, I achieved shooting outcomes that surpassed my expectations and satisfied me thoroughly.

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 24 mm | 1/400 sec | F2.8 | ISO 160

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 34 mm | 1/400 sec | F5 | ISO 100

What should you be mindful of when taking travel photos?

I believe that in photography, the end result holds the utmost importance. During daylight hours, capturing various colours within the frame is crucial by appropriately adjusting the shutter speed and aperture. Conversely, achieving a photo with minimal noise based on ISO settings at night becomes paramount. Thanks to the remarkable advancements in optical technology, obtaining noise-free images is now possible even at slower shutter speeds, particularly at night.

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 35 mm | 1/500 sec | F3.5 | ISO 2500

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 16 mm | 8 sec | F10 | ISO 50

Get inspired

As Seok-Hyun continues to embark on more adventures, his ultimate dream is to collaborate with nature-focused optical brands. He also aspires to lead in the travel industry by creating a platform for individuals who share a passion for exploring the beauty of the great outdoors. A tip for his readers: "Achieve your desired results by focusing on your shooting techniques rather than relying solely on post-processing."

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 16 mm | 1/400 sec | F5 | ISO 800

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 16 mm | 19.9 sec | F5.6 | ISO 50

Alpha 7CR | FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 35 mm | 1/320 sec | F5| ISO 800

I’m an explorer who captures the beauty of the natural world and the fleeting moments of time.”

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Dazzling Taiwan through the lens of @siniple | Featuring FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Calvin — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 08:41:14 +0000

Dazzling Taiwan through the lens of @siniple | Featuring FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Calvin Fri, 03/22/2024 - 14:11

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 7R V

Lens Category

FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Lens highlights | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Why Siniple chose FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Travel Q&A with Siniple

When not shooting for brands, Siniple, a photographer hailing from South Korea, documents memorable moments on his travels through photos and videos. He also takes on projects for domestic and international tourism boards, further satiating his wanderlust. Most recently, he embarked on a journey to Taiwan, the land where the old meets the new in an eclectic fusion.

We had a quick chat with Siniple to hear more about his trip and how the Alpha 7R V and FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II have helped him along the way.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 70 mm | 3.2 sec | F11 | ISO 100

Lens highlights | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Weighing only 794g, the FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II is an ultra-compact telephoto zoom lens with half-macro performance throughout its zoom range. Being much lighter than its predecessor, the FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS, it is more suitable for travel photographers to carry around and shoot handheld.

Focal length: 70-200mm
Min. focus distance: 0.26-0.42m
Max. magnification ratio (X): 0.5
Weight: 794g

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 | 172 mm | 1/250 sec | F10 | ISO 400

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 70 mm | 1/50 sec | F4 | ISO 2500

Its lightweight and compact design creates a satisfying shooting environment. A comfy environment allows me to focus on photography.”

Why Siniple chose FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II

Being a photographer who is constantly on the move, Siniple appreciates how the lightweight FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II doesn’t strain his wrist after a full day of use, stating that it’s ideal for photographers who shoot handheld for long periods. Without the extra bulk weighing him down, Siniple was able to enjoy the moment and focus on framing his shots.

Travel Q&A with Siniple

Tell us more about your choice of equipment.

When it comes to street and landscape photography, I use the Alpha 7R V and FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II combination for its fast autofocus and image stabilisation. Due to the nature of shooting nightscapes, I found myself in situations where I had to make do with little light. Thankfully, I was able to stably capture handheld shots with shutter speeds as slow as 3-4 seconds, allowing me to shoot at relatively low ISO settings. The FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II provided noticeable improvements in image quality and as expected, its lightweight and compact design allowed me to shoot more comfortably for long hours.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 172 mm | 1/250 sec | F4 | ISO 800

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 184 mm | 1/125 sec | F4 | ISO 2000

What made you want to visit Taiwan for your photography escapade?

Taiwan may be a small country but it offers a plethora of photographic opportunities. It's easy to navigate between urban and natural landscapes, and it encompasses both Chinese and Japanese influences. Small and large temples alike can be spotted throughout the city, reminiscent of an idyllic traditional Chinese village. However, as I ventured into the alleys, I felt as though I had stepped into a quaint, peaceful Japanese town.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 | 70 mm | 1/250 sec | F6.3 | ISO 100

The urban streetscapes blend in so well with its natural and cultural characteristics that I was enchanted at once. I strove to capture the captivating essence of Taiwan in as many photos and videos as I possibly could.

What should you be mindful of when taking photos in Taiwan?

Personally, I enjoy capturing natural moments without missing a beat. No matter if it’s for a few seconds or a fleeting moment, being ready at any time is crucial. Since I mainly use macro mode, setting the appropriate values quickly is also important. Depending on the location and time, I usually adjust the settings to match the environmental conditions in advance.

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 | 77 mm | 1/400 sec | F8 | ISO 100

I want to share positivity with others through the travel photos and experiences I have captured so far.”

Get inspired

An adventurous spirit at heart, Siniple is planning to embark on many more adventures around the world and work on his collection of travel photo essays to share the joy of travel with a broader audience. The FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II has been instrumental in his conquests and he is looking forward to exploring more destinations with this handy telephoto lens in hand. “As expected, it was a great decision to visit Taiwan with such a compact yet powerful lens in hand.”

Alpha 7R V | FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II | 70 mm | 1/200 sec | F4 | ISO 400

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Travel

VLOG

Scenic South Korea through the lens of @bombyul | Featuring FE 20-70mm F4 G

Calvin — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 07:52:48 +0000

Scenic South Korea through the lens of @bombyul | Featuring FE 20-70mm F4 G

Calvin Fri, 03/22/2024 - 13:22

Article Categories

Tips

Body Category

Alpha 7C II

Lens Category

FE 20-70mm F4 G

Lens highlights | FE 20-70mm F4 G

Why Bombyul chose FE 20-70mm F4 G

Travel Q&A with Bombyul

South Korean travel photographer Bombyul prefers to take a slow and steady approach to capturing her travels and documenting them on her Instagram page @bombyul. She takes us on a scenic journey through Jeonju, South Korea, capturing sights of beauty with the Alpha 7C II and FE 20-70mm F4 G.

Lens highlights | FE 20-70mm F4 G

Compact and lightweight with fast AF, the FE 20-70mm F4 G redefines the standard zoom with an even wider focal length range, becoming a choice lens for versatile creators who are always on the go.

Focal length: 20-70mm
Min. focus distance: 0.30m (W), 0.25m (T)
Max. magnification ratio (X): 0.39
Weight: 488g

Alpha 7C II | FE 20-70mm F4 G | 52 mm | 1/80 sec | F4 | ISO 320

Portability was important to me because Jeonju is mostly accessible on foot or by public transport.”

Why Bombyul chose FE 20-70mm F4 G

Bombyul needed a lens that was both versatile and portable as most of her journey was on foot, which made the FE 20-70mm F4 G perfect for her. “This lens is not only lightweight, it guarantees good results.”

Alpha 7C II | FE 20-70mm F4 G | 70 mm | 1/500 sec | F4.5 | ISO 100

Travel Q&A with Bombyul

What was it like capturing your travels with your equipment?

The Alpha 7C II was intuitive and great for shooting handheld paired with the lightweight FE 20-70mm F4 G. Together, the image stabilisation was good. Plus, the lens' wider angle gave me more options and versatility when taking landscape photos.

Alpha 7C II | FE 20-70mm F4 G | 70 mm | 1/1000 sec | F4.5 | ISO 100

What advice do you have for fellow travel photographers?

The best way to take good travel photos is to take a lot of them. Finding just one A-cut is important, but try taking more photos of many different moments. New A-cuts may appear in unexpected places.

Alpha 7C II | FE 20-70mm F4 G | 20 mm | 1/320 sec | F6.3 | ISO 100

What was your most memorable moment?

A memorable location was Deokjin Park in Jeonju. There were many peaceful and beautiful shooting spots. The library in the middle of the lake can be captured from various angles. Yeonhwajeong Library was also impressive with its sunny Hanok windows and stacks of books on display.

Alpha 7C II | FE 20-70mm F4 G | 45 mm | 1/125 sec | F4 | ISO 100

Get inspired

Give Jeonju a visit if you’re heading to South Korea. When you look down on Jeonju from the hill Omokdae, it retains an old atmosphere which reminds us of the city of the past. You’ll love it especially if you like a peaceful and quiet atmosphere.

There is beauty in old things recorded over time.”

Alpha 7C II | FE 20-70mm F4 G | 70 mm | 1/320 sec | F4 | ISO 100

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Street Photography

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