The Sony A7RII can't track to save it's life and before anyone comments, I own the A7RII and it's the greatest camera I have ever used - except when it comes to tracking. Sony G lenses suffer from focus shifting i.e. the focus acquired when the lens is wide open shifts when the lens closes to a smaller preset aperture. So they "solved" this issue, via a firmware update, by changing the focusing system. It now acquires a basic lock wide open, then closes to the preset aperture, refocuses and then tries to track. Unfortunately at f8 the awesome phase detection AF disables and the camera hunts like you wouldn't believe! I was using a 200mm lens at a fashion show and at under 30 feet the area of focus is less than 3 feet using f8. So to ensure I got the clothing sharp I set the aperture at f8 and my lens hunted and missed the focus time and time again! Remember, the models were walking at less than 5mph and it could even track that speed. I switched to my other telephotos, all top lenses and it happened with each and every one of them. Sony are aware of the problem and have been for over a year since they have been inundated with compaints about this.The majority of owners have requested a firmware update allowing a choice of focusing either wide open or closed - and they've done nothing. Don't believe me, try it and see what happens or if you haven't the time go on the net and look it up, you'll find lots of complaints on the subject. So if you want an awesome camera for motionless subjects get the A7RII but if you shoot subjects that move, forget it and buy a DSLR. One last thought... I was considering buying the new A9 and then I realised if Sony have wrecked the A7RII with this via the firmware what's to stop them doing it with the A9? Be wary buying either of them. In the meantime I and many thousands of others are stuck with a camera that's fine as long as what we shoot is basically dead and not moving until Sony get there finger out and fix the problem. One unhappy A7RII owner...
I have zero problems with mine. Nothing of what you speak of. And have you even seen the reviews and "shootouts" with the A9?! That camera is killing it!
Yes I have seen the A9 stuff. It looks amazing. It's good that you don't have problems. I'm happy to say I don't have them either now due to solving it via a couple of work arounds. When using my non Sony lenses via the Metabones adapter I use the "Green" mode which allows those lenses to focus wide open. The AF system still struggles at f8 with Sony lenses but by using a smaller focusing area the camera seems to manage ok...on wide it just fails. It's a shame I can't have my cake and eat it by having all of the cameras phenomenal capabilities (no Eye AF using Green Mode on the adapter for example) but I am happy I can get it to do most of what I want. It is after all the best camera I have ever used/owned. Interestingly enough if I were to purchase a second camera body it wouldn't be the A9, simply because its not for me, I would buy another A7RII! So as you see I love the camera, it's just it took some time, a lot of research and some trial and error to sort out my problems and now they're basically solved I am happy again. Anyway, good to hear your camera does exactly what you want...
Thank you for grate video!! Wondering if anyone may know how well combination of Sony product would work together: Sony VCT-VPR10 Tripod Sony α7S II Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS All 3 item are from Sony and would we be able to control zoom using tripod handle?
I had the original A7R, I know it cannot be compared to the new focus system not he A7Rii, but how do you find it for working fast/ergonomics? I'm still a bit weary of going back to Sony because I was fairly slow with the A7R. The 16-35 Zeiss lens was one of the best landscape lenses I used. I also had a few more lenses, the 55mm was great. The extreme cropping saved me in a lot of situations. Although, while I had it, and to my knowledge they have not put out a 100 or 135 yet, which I really like for portraits. I went back to Canon. I plan to stay with Canon, because the focusing and ergonomics are so fast. I compared both my A7R photos and Canon Photos and really love my Canon. But I WILL go back to Sony if the 5D Mark IV announcement ends up being horrible. I cannot go four more years to wait for them to keep up. I do not like the 5DSR. But I LOVE high megapixel cameras. On a few pro jobs, I messed up the composition due to being nervous, being an introvert. It was my first 6 month old baby shoot. I just totally screwed it up. But the fact that I was able to crop and still get really good quality saved the entire job for me. I just can't see myself going to Nikon. If I leave Canon again I'm going for the Sony. All I need is 3 or 4 lenses anyway. 16-35, 55mm 1.8, 85mm 1.8, and hopefully a 135 will come soon. The Zeiss lenses are some of the best I've ever used. I do wish Sony would put this in a pro body for those of us who want it, with big batteries and a bigger body. To me, mirrorless isn't about being small really.
+nagol5178 A good and completely fair question. I was not particularly impressed with the focusing on the A7s. The A7rii's focusing systems are far better from my initial first month of shooting, even with the metabones adapter, most of my Canon L lenses are working and if you aren't shooting sports, you will be able to use your Canon glass on the A7r2, even if you have to manually focus (some lenses work great, others not as well) but overall, it is much faster. I use the native 24-70 F4 a lot, probably 80% of the time. It is very fast focusing and accurate. Slightly better ergonomics, a little wider, but the same basic shape. Id suggest renting an A7rii with a Metabones adapter and trying it out.
Well I know I don't like the A7R with Canon Lenses, even though I had the previous version, any Canon zoom felt awkward. I really like the Zeiss lenses. I mean I plan on staying with Canon this time unless they don't make the 5D Mark IV any good. I'm mostly a prime guy, I use a zoom for the 16-35, then a 55, then an 85, and a 135. I don't shoot anything further than 135. Sony has all those except the 135 so far. Do you find problems with the colors? Especially on video? On the A7R I had it wasn't pleasant. It didn't have that, "Film," look like Canon has. It looked more digital. Even though they are all digital. I fell in love with that Canon look, which is why I chose it over Nikon so many years ago. Some photos you can't tell, but some photos you can. Even when it's subtle, it's just this warm contrasty filmic look.
+nagol5178 For video, I agree, I have always just loved the look coming out of the 5d3. I ran into huge coloring issues when I started shooting in SLog on the A7s, did much better when I didn't fool around with that. Matching up between Sony and Canon on video is not easy and I wouldn't recommend it. Btw- there is a reason I still shoot nearly all of my TH-cam videos with the 5D3- I don't have to do anything to it grading wise.
dear mike, your opinion please. in general are you happy with this camera. did you previously use a canon or Nikon dslr? I am seriously considering moving from my canon equipment to this camera but I am nervous. I use a canon 5d mark II and a 7D. regards
+James Tepedino Hi James been shooting professionally for 25 years with Canon if you need any Canon glass holler I am a convert to the new Sony systems I heve both the a7r2 and the a7s2 they are brilliant!
I am a Canon and Nikon shooter and now own this wonderful sensor. I say sensor since the camera needs to catch up to it. Anyone telling you this is a better camera is just not seeing it from a DSLR pro perspective. IF you expect to nail shots that are quick reaction images, just put this thing down and walk away. If you take images that are not time sensitive, and you already have the camera going, IN The AF mode you need to be in, and you are not in dark light and you are with well adapted or FE lenses, You should embrace it. But think of it as a hybrid cell phone device first, then a camera. I do love mine, but I also know what it cannot do, and will not tell you some BS only positive aspect like I just see above from Michael the Maven. I find it very irresponsible as a professional. Generally decent step by steps videos if you're need the hand holding and school type scolding manner. But still great info in these videos for newbies.
As the focus modes are so comprehensive, it definitely is useful to watch this video over and over again. From my own experience, many of the modes are fancy and nice to have. But you don't have to use them. Rather select one that you like and that works for your type of photography and stick with it. Just my thinking. Thanks Michael for putting this video up.
This was an excellent video. Very thorough and explained in a chronological order. Really helped my understanding of the different focus modes, how to change them and when to do so for the optimum performance. Thank you
Wow, 2015! Still great deals... but the lacks of dual card.. no af joystick and still around 1600 new.. for now I'm into Fuji with discounted x-h1, half the price with grip (I know its just apsc). Still tempted by Sony but dont' find the bodies comfortable.. btw still great tech (even if camera seems to say "let me do everything")
thanks a lot for your details review. I have a question is that focus system the same in a7ii because it's much cheaper and really good camera it's more than enough 24 megapixle for me . kind regards
I just want say your voice is very comforting . I have a learning disability and is very important that one who teaches is completely focus on the subject..I am grateful I been learning very slowly but with persistence...Thank you so much....Rosa
I hate Red Focus peaking and want to ask you guys if it's just my problem (because I'm a little color blind) or is RED the color that is the least obvious in focus peaking? I find yellow to be the best
I’ve just bought a Sony ar7 ii pretty much brand new with a Sony 20mm 1.8 G, tried everything, shutter speeds, iOS etc etc, getting terrible pixelated and often blurry images, im using a free well variable filter, though taking it off makes no difference, would appreciate some help.
I do have one question though. When shooting in AF-S or AF-A and in Flexible Spot Mode, I can use the dial to move the focus square to my preference until I take a shot. After I take a shot, I can no longer move the focus square without going back to the FN mode and clicking on the Flexible Spot Mode again. How can I maintain the flexibility of moving my Focus Square for multiple shots without the need to go back to FN mode between each shot?
Great video! Just one question - How accurate is AF-C on static subject? Will it result in a blurry image because camera is expecting the subject to move?
hey there i recently got the a7r mark ii and i was wondering if i could move my focus point while shooting and not just lock the focus point somewhere and then go take the shot, can i move my focus point like the sony a7r mark iii does with the joystick
Simply the best, Michael you've done it again! I love the way you explain, not to long, very easy to follow, excellent illustration. Being a long time shooter on canon and added A7Rii just few days back, it was absolutely easy for me to get to full speed on this new camera after watching this video. Thanks again!
How do i set autofocus to film myself? For example if the camera is on a tripod and im moving around in my kitchen.. How do i make the camera focus without being behind it and holding the focus button?
Thank you for the tutorial. However, the title also says A7Sii. And for people watching with the A7Sii it can be misleading, as both cameras have some differences in focusing. The A7Rii has some superior focusing capabilities which do not apply to the A7Sii. Also a huge point not mentioned is that whilst the A7Sii was aimed more at video shooters, the A7Rii actually has better continuous focusing in video mode. Which is a strong reason to consider using the A7Rii for video. Thanks, all the best
I just bought the A7sII and I just can't believe they disabled DTMF and AF-S in video mode. I don't usually use autofocus when shooting video but I would love to be able to use the Playmemories app and touch the screen to focus on a spot like you can in Photo mode. I could do that with my Panasonic GH4 but sold that for the Sony. Very disappointing. Hope they fix that with a firmware update.
Around the 4:10 mark you talk about selecting the focus area. I am unable to select the focus area in the single shot af focus mode you were using. It's grayed out for everything except for af-c and then I can only choose one or two settings. Any tips?
Hey Michael Manual focus assist doesn't work using an adapter ? I have two zeiss lenses but when I turn the dial to manual focus it doesn't zoom in and I have MF assist on, what am I doing wrong?
+ViralSocials You are not doing anything wrong! Because there is no electronic connection between the camera and lens the camera does not know when you are turning the focus ring. On my A7M2 (the focussing works the same as on the A7RM2 - just not as many focus points) I have assigned the C2 button to focus assist. When I press this, focus assist comes up, I move the box around the cover the area that I want to focus on and press the C2 button again. That area is now magnified. I hope that this helps.
NetWolf3D the store is up and working. Which links are you looking at? Try this: www.canontrainingvideo.com/michaels-training-downloads-c-3/sony-a7rii-crash-course-download-only-p-91.html?zenid=mo71su6e0qdq2kvasej7q3n336
+Ondrej Bobek e.g. you can shoot the wedding all day long with smaller AF point or field of points and taking pictures of the people with eye detection without changing the area to large. You just need to use native FE lenses from Sony or Zeiss Batis lenses. It works with AF-S, AF-A, AF-C and DMF and even without activating the face/smile detection. I have tested it on my A7rII with FW3.0 and Batis 85mm lens.
One question I can't find an answer to: Does Eye AF work in M (movie) mode? It seems to only work for stills. I want it to work continuously while shooting an interview.
Great information. Got one problem with my Sony a7sii and Sony 2.8 70-200 I. When im in movie mode and i turn on my auofocus it goes directly into program mode so my shutter changes.. Would like to lock my shutter down and autofucus..
Hi Michael, I am that mom, friend that always volunteers to take family, friends and church family life style photos and I love it. After years of only owning kit Canons and kit Nikons I was blessed with the opportunity to buy my very first full frame and I purchased the Sony 7aii. I love it and well I have always loved Sony products, but never imagined I would own a full-frame mirrorless camera. I appreciate your video and hope to learn how to use this camera in manual mode instead of auto mode. Thank you for you videos!!!!! This one particularly has been very helpful.
Hi Michael with the new recent lenses coming out for the fe mount like the 70-200 f2.8 and the 70-300 what I'm interested in is if the la ea3 adapter and Sony a mount lenses would work aswell as the fe mount versions due to the cost. Certainly second hand a mount versions would save some money, have you tested the AF performance with the la ea3 adapter and phase detect points? I have used the metabones and currently do with a few canon lenses and I'm disappointed with anything that's moving as its always out of focus of the object is moving toward or away from you, it seems by the time you press the shutter and it fires the object has moved and focus is behind the front of the subject so I'm wondering if the AF is comparable from the a mount and fe mount. Regards david
Does anyone knows what i am doing wrong, when my AF keeps on focusing the background for example even if face detection is on and there is someone standing in the middle of the clip? I feel like the AF is also in other shots just jumping and refocusing a lot. i am using AF-C. coming from only using manual focus, so thats all kind of new to me.
still mode focusing very well explained ,thanks but also pls explain movie mode focusing which has limitations in compare to still mode ,specially auto focus one , i am using sony a99mii bought recently but focusing mechanism not clear ...
These focus features don’t work with all lenses. Eye focusing doesn’t work with the Sony FE 85mm 1.8. It gives a pop up that reads, ! not with this lens. Pisses me off cause it’s a Sony lens.
Excellent summary, VERY helpful. I've had the a7R II for a month and read two books (Matsumoto and Busch) that were good starts, but you summarized and demonstrated the essentials of this complex topic in a meaningful and accessible way. I agree with Flashback, "A really great tutorial. Sony should pay you for this:-)".
The Best A7rii Review ever. Noone, up to now have explained this in detail. I Will be A7rii + 85mm 1.4 GM owner in 25 Days. Can't wait to have it and start shooting.
Quarker the camera is fantastic. I got it in July and i have 2 lens with it. The Sony 85mm 1.4 GM and the Zeiss Distagon 35mm 1.4. Both of the lenses are perfect match with this camera.
Nice, that 35mm is a beast. I hate that Sony/Zeiss lenses are so expensive, compared to Canon. I just got the A7Rii a couple of days ago too, learning how to use it.
Hi Michael great video. Have you found a sweet spot while shooting on the 24-70 f4? I'm just trying to find the best way to get consistent and sharp handheld video as I will be traveling without a gamble. thanks for the helpful tutorials
Hi thanks for your time to explain but a part the thousand and one sets for the different focuses I have one simple question, can you focus manually just using the viewfinder ? is the viewfinder such a good quality that allow to shoot in manual focus ? insted of putting dozen of sets for the focusing couldnt they come up with a simple solution that the camera is focusing where the eye is looking ? like the canon did it for an analogic model years ago ? and once you are happy with the subjetc you just press half way the shutter button and is going to track the subjetc ? I do have a rx100iii and a a6000 but i find the focus system terrible ! and the a6000 viewfinder doesnt give me an appropriate view of the scene so I cant use it in manual focus !! thanks
I focus manually using the EVF and the focus magnifier on the a7sii in stills and video modes - and have never missed focus. However, the focus peaking is not trustworthy and I no longer use it because of too many ruined shots.
Great videos you make Michael. I'm just wondering which autofocus mode you found to be the most reliable for moving subjects; the center lock on AF, the lock on AF expandable spot, or continuous focus?
Nice video. thanks for the walk through. I just switched to using back button focusing and taking the focus away from the shutter button. I'm using the AF/MF switch setting to do AF and the AEL switch setting to do Eye AF.
Michael, I actually have your full course but haven't come across (or missed) you talking about the AF/MF lever. The button you say switches you back and forth, but what happens when you switch the lever? It looks like between AF/MF and AEL?
Hey Michael! I happen to shoot weddings with the Canon 24 - 105mm lens, a7sii on the Ronin M. Quick question: is there an auto focus function for video that works with that lens found in the a7s ii? I struggle to maintain focus especially when operating the Ronin M. Can you advise me?
best tutorial on youtube straight forward and I believe Ive watched this 20 times,,,,Thank you for sharing this video!!!!
Thanks for the video! I am going to buy the full course.
fantastic thank you so much Michael.
Thank you soo much!!!!
Nice video ...thank you from Italy
This is awesome. Many thanks!
great video very helpful thanks
The Sony A7RII can't track to save it's life and before anyone comments, I own the A7RII and it's the greatest camera I have ever used - except when it comes to tracking. Sony G lenses suffer from focus shifting i.e. the focus acquired when the lens is wide open shifts when the lens closes to a smaller preset aperture. So they "solved" this issue, via a firmware update, by changing the focusing system. It now acquires a basic lock wide open, then closes to the preset aperture, refocuses and then tries to track. Unfortunately at f8 the awesome phase detection AF disables and the camera hunts like you wouldn't believe! I was using a 200mm lens at a fashion show and at under 30 feet the area of focus is less than 3 feet using f8. So to ensure I got the clothing sharp I set the aperture at f8 and my lens hunted and missed the focus time and time again! Remember, the models were walking at less than 5mph and it could even track that speed. I switched to my other telephotos, all top lenses and it happened with each and every one of them. Sony are aware of the problem and have been for over a year since they have been inundated with compaints about this.The majority of owners have requested a firmware update allowing a choice of focusing either wide open or closed - and they've done nothing. Don't believe me, try it and see what happens or if you haven't the time go on the net and look it up, you'll find lots of complaints on the subject. So if you want an awesome camera for motionless subjects get the A7RII but if you shoot subjects that move, forget it and buy a DSLR. One last thought... I was considering buying the new A9 and then I realised if Sony have wrecked the A7RII with this via the firmware what's to stop them doing it with the A9? Be wary buying either of them. In the meantime I and many thousands of others are stuck with a camera that's fine as long as what we shoot is basically dead and not moving until Sony get there finger out and fix the problem.
One unhappy A7RII owner...
I have zero problems with mine. Nothing of what you speak of. And have you even seen the reviews and "shootouts" with the A9?! That camera is killing it!
Yes I have seen the A9 stuff. It looks amazing. It's good that you don't have problems. I'm happy to say I don't have them either now due to solving it via a couple of work arounds. When using my non Sony lenses via the Metabones adapter I use the "Green" mode which allows those lenses to focus wide open. The AF system still struggles at f8 with Sony lenses but by using a smaller focusing area the camera seems to manage ok...on wide it just fails.
It's a shame I can't have my cake and eat it by having all of the cameras phenomenal capabilities (no Eye AF using Green Mode on the adapter for example) but I am happy I can get it to do most of what I want. It is after all the best camera I have ever used/owned. Interestingly enough if I were to purchase a second camera body it wouldn't be the A9, simply because its not for me, I would buy another A7RII! So as you see I love the camera, it's just it took some time, a lot of research and some trial and error to sort out my problems and now they're basically solved I am happy again. Anyway, good to hear your camera does exactly what you want...
Tnx! Perfect review!
great video
Thank you for grate video!!
Wondering if anyone may know how well combination of Sony product would work together:
Sony VCT-VPR10 Tripod
Sony α7S II
Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS
All 3 item are from Sony and would we be able to control zoom using tripod handle?
I wonder why it really has to be a complex as this
those green small focus points are not working with the a7sii :(
I had the original A7R, I know it cannot be compared to the new focus system not he A7Rii, but how do you find it for working fast/ergonomics? I'm still a bit weary of going back to Sony because I was fairly slow with the A7R. The 16-35 Zeiss lens was one of the best landscape lenses I used. I also had a few more lenses, the 55mm was great. The extreme cropping saved me in a lot of situations. Although, while I had it, and to my knowledge they have not put out a 100 or 135 yet, which I really like for portraits. I went back to Canon. I plan to stay with Canon, because the focusing and ergonomics are so fast. I compared both my A7R photos and Canon Photos and really love my Canon. But I WILL go back to Sony if the 5D Mark IV announcement ends up being horrible. I cannot go four more years to wait for them to keep up. I do not like the 5DSR. But I LOVE high megapixel cameras. On a few pro jobs, I messed up the composition due to being nervous, being an introvert. It was my first 6 month old baby shoot. I just totally screwed it up. But the fact that I was able to crop and still get really good quality saved the entire job for me. I just can't see myself going to Nikon. If I leave Canon again I'm going for the Sony. All I need is 3 or 4 lenses anyway. 16-35, 55mm 1.8, 85mm 1.8, and hopefully a 135 will come soon. The Zeiss lenses are some of the best I've ever used. I do wish Sony would put this in a pro body for those of us who want it, with big batteries and a bigger body. To me, mirrorless isn't about being small really.
+nagol5178 A good and completely fair question. I was not particularly impressed with the focusing on the A7s. The A7rii's focusing systems are far better from my initial first month of shooting, even with the metabones adapter, most of my Canon L lenses are working and if you aren't shooting sports, you will be able to use your Canon glass on the A7r2, even if you have to manually focus (some lenses work great, others not as well) but overall, it is much faster. I use the native 24-70 F4 a lot, probably 80% of the time. It is very fast focusing and accurate. Slightly better ergonomics, a little wider, but the same basic shape. Id suggest renting an A7rii with a Metabones adapter and trying it out.
Well I know I don't like the A7R with Canon Lenses, even though I had the previous version, any Canon zoom felt awkward. I really like the Zeiss lenses. I mean I plan on staying with Canon this time unless they don't make the 5D Mark IV any good. I'm mostly a prime guy, I use a zoom for the 16-35, then a 55, then an 85, and a 135. I don't shoot anything further than 135. Sony has all those except the 135 so far.
Do you find problems with the colors? Especially on video? On the A7R I had it wasn't pleasant. It didn't have that, "Film," look like Canon has. It looked more digital. Even though they are all digital. I fell in love with that Canon look, which is why I chose it over Nikon so many years ago. Some photos you can't tell, but some photos you can. Even when it's subtle, it's just this warm contrasty filmic look.
+nagol5178 For video, I agree, I have always just loved the look coming out of the 5d3. I ran into huge coloring issues when I started shooting in SLog on the A7s, did much better when I didn't fool around with that. Matching up between Sony and Canon on video is not easy and I wouldn't recommend it. Btw- there is a reason I still shoot nearly all of my TH-cam videos with the 5D3- I don't have to do anything to it grading wise.
dear mike, your opinion please. in general are you happy with this camera. did you previously use a canon or Nikon dslr? I am seriously considering moving from my canon equipment to this camera but I am nervous. I use a canon 5d mark II and a 7D. regards
I love my A7r2!
+James Tepedino Hi James been shooting professionally for 25 years with Canon if you need any Canon glass holler I am a convert to the new Sony systems I heve both the a7r2 and the a7s2 they are brilliant!
I am a Canon and Nikon shooter and now own this wonderful sensor. I say sensor since the camera needs to catch up to it. Anyone telling you this is a better camera is just not seeing it from a DSLR pro perspective. IF you expect to nail shots that are quick reaction images, just put this thing down and walk away. If you take images that are not time sensitive, and you already have the camera going, IN The AF mode you need to be in, and you are not in dark light and you are with well adapted or FE lenses, You should embrace it. But think of it as a hybrid cell phone device first, then a camera. I do love mine, but I also know what it cannot do, and will not tell you some BS only positive aspect like I just see above from Michael the Maven. I find it very irresponsible as a professional. Generally decent step by steps videos if you're need the hand holding and school type scolding manner. But still great info in these videos for newbies.
great tutorial! but why put some pretty girl to model, even in a technical tutorial?! so annoying!
After watching so many tutorials on focusing, you presented info that made a difference.
As the focus modes are so comprehensive, it definitely is useful to watch this video over and over again.
From my own experience, many of the modes are fancy and nice to have. But you don't have to use them. Rather select one that you like and that works for your type of photography and stick with it. Just my thinking.
Thanks Michael for putting this video up.
This was an excellent video. Very thorough and explained in a chronological order. Really helped my understanding of the different focus modes, how to change them and when to do so for the optimum performance. Thank you
Great!
This is missing on the internet, very well organized video. Thanks Michael!
Wow, 2015! Still great deals... but the lacks of dual card.. no af joystick and still around 1600 new.. for now I'm into Fuji with discounted x-h1, half the price with grip (I know its just apsc). Still tempted by Sony but dont' find the bodies comfortable.. btw still great tech (even if camera seems to say "let me do everything")
thanks a lot for your details review. I have a question is that focus system the same in a7ii because it's much cheaper and really good camera it's more than enough 24 megapixle for me . kind regards
Great video, thank you. Best a7rii video I've come across and really helped me decide on the camera.
I just want say your voice is very comforting . I have a learning disability and is very important that one who teaches is completely focus on the subject..I am grateful I been learning very slowly but with persistence...Thank you so much....Rosa
Keep going Rosa! Persistence will pay off. Thank you for your comment - it was nice to hear from you
your a great teacher thank you for this upload....Subscribed
I hate Red Focus peaking and want to ask you guys if it's just my problem (because I'm a little color blind) or is RED the color that is the least obvious in focus peaking? I find yellow to be the best
I’ve just bought a Sony ar7 ii pretty much brand new with a Sony 20mm 1.8 G, tried everything, shutter speeds, iOS etc etc, getting terrible pixelated and often blurry images, im using a free well variable filter, though taking it off makes no difference, would appreciate some help.
Brilliant video. Gave me a full understanding of the AF modes. Very well made. Thank you for making it and posting it.
I do have one question though. When shooting in AF-S or AF-A and in Flexible Spot Mode, I can use the dial to move the focus square to my preference until I take a shot. After I take a shot, I can no longer move the focus square without going back to the FN mode and clicking on the Flexible Spot Mode again. How can I maintain the flexibility of moving my Focus Square for multiple shots without the need to go back to FN mode between each shot?
Any A7 rii owner? How does the AF perform after last updates compared also to A7iii? 🤓
Great great video I'm def a subcriber now I must learn more I need pratice on focusing for sure for my photography and my videography
Great video! Just one question - How accurate is AF-C on static subject? Will it result in a blurry image because camera is expecting the subject to move?
hey there i recently got the a7r mark ii and i was wondering if i could move my focus point while shooting and not just lock the focus point somewhere and then go take the shot, can i move my focus point like the sony a7r mark iii does with the joystick
You cant be a professional photographer on youtube unless your have a pretty model for your tutorial everyone knows this
Simply the best, Michael you've done it again! I love the way you explain, not to long, very easy to follow, excellent illustration. Being a long time shooter on canon and added A7Rii just few days back, it was absolutely easy for me to get to full speed on this new camera after watching this video. Thanks again!
I thought I understood my A7r2's focusing modes, now I realise I was mistaken!
A really great tutorial. Sony should pay you for this:-)
THE BEST FOCUS TRAINING I HAVE EVER SEEN STEP BY STEP ITS PERFEEEEEEEEECT THANKS, MICHEAL U R GREAT. THERE R MANY GARBAGE VIDEOS ON TH-cam U STANDOUT
Michael, great video. Question for you though - what are those corner frame markers on the viewfinder that appear at 3:46 of the video?
Excelente video gracias por compartir sus conocimientos 👏🏼
How do i set autofocus to film myself? For example if the camera is on a tripod and im moving around in my kitchen.. How do i make the camera focus without being behind it and holding the focus button?
+Rasmus get a wide angle lens and set your aperture to at least f8. Set your focus area to wide.
Best crash course ever. Thank you! I'm new to shooting with Sony and this has been a great help!
... i wish they make it more simpler just like nikon and canon did
Coool vid....Thanks for sharing your experience.
Thank You for making this helpful tutorial videos for us to view.
Keep up the good work ^_^
+s hong My pleasure! Hope to do more videos with the A7Rii because I love shooting with it so much!
+Kenneth Owsley where?
Thank you for the tutorial. However, the title also says A7Sii. And for people watching with the A7Sii it can be misleading, as both cameras have some differences in focusing. The A7Rii has some superior focusing capabilities which do not apply to the A7Sii. Also a huge point not mentioned is that whilst the A7Sii was aimed more at video shooters, the A7Rii actually has better continuous focusing in video mode. Which is a strong reason to consider using the A7Rii for video. Thanks, all the best
I just bought the A7sII and I just can't believe they disabled DTMF and AF-S in video mode.
I don't usually use autofocus when shooting video but I would love to be able to use the Playmemories app and touch the screen to focus on a spot like you can in Photo mode. I could do that with my Panasonic GH4 but sold that for the Sony.
Very disappointing. Hope they fix that with a firmware update.
Around the 4:10 mark you talk about selecting the focus area. I am unable to select the focus area in the single shot af focus mode you were using. It's grayed out for everything except for af-c and then I can only choose one or two settings. Any tips?
That Model though....
is hot~
Thirsty
sexy af
Is ugly
Hey Michael Manual focus assist doesn't work using an adapter ? I have two zeiss lenses but when I turn the dial to manual focus it doesn't zoom in and I have MF assist on, what am I doing wrong?
+ViralSocials You are not doing anything wrong! Because there is no electronic connection between the camera and lens the camera does not know when you are turning the focus ring. On my A7M2 (the focussing works the same as on the A7RM2 - just not as many focus points) I have assigned the C2 button to focus assist. When I press this, focus assist comes up, I move the box around the cover the area that I want to focus on and press the C2 button again. That area is now magnified. I hope that this helps.
hallow... a want to buy a7r 2 with only one lance for wedding still photo.... which is the best lance for me ?
G-Master 24-70 f2.8, perhaps.
Thanks for this video, lots of valuable info., I will watch it again.
Long back i bough ypur video for d7100 now i would like to get ghe a7r2 videos but your website links are not working.
NetWolf3D the store is up and working. Which links are you looking at? Try this: www.canontrainingvideo.com/michaels-training-downloads-c-3/sony-a7rii-crash-course-download-only-p-91.html?zenid=mo71su6e0qdq2kvasej7q3n336
Does this work even when you’re shooting in manual mode?
One of the best tutorial videos I've seen for the A7rii
You dont need set the focus area to largest possible for working with Eye AF (07:27). It works with any focus point setting.
+Ondrej Bobek e.g. you can shoot the wedding all day long with smaller AF point or field of points and taking pictures of the people with eye detection without changing the area to large.
You just need to use native FE lenses from Sony or Zeiss Batis lenses. It works with AF-S, AF-A, AF-C and DMF and even without activating the face/smile detection.
I have tested it on my A7rII with FW3.0 and Batis 85mm lens.
+Ondrej Bobek You are 100% correct. I came here basically to say that setting does NOT have to be set to wide for AF-Eye to work.
I stand corrected. Thanks
One question I can't find an answer to: Does Eye AF work in M (movie) mode? It seems to only work for stills. I want it to work continuously while shooting an interview.
Great information. Got one problem with my Sony a7sii and Sony 2.8 70-200 I. When im in movie mode and i turn on my auofocus it goes directly into program mode so my shutter changes.. Would like to lock my shutter down and autofucus..
Hi Michael, I am that mom, friend that always volunteers to take family, friends and church family life style photos and I love it. After years of only owning kit Canons and kit Nikons I was blessed with the opportunity to buy my very first full frame and I purchased the Sony 7aii. I love it and well I have always loved Sony products, but never imagined I would own a full-frame mirrorless camera. I appreciate your video and hope to learn how to use this camera in manual mode instead of auto mode. Thank you for you videos!!!!! This one particularly has been very helpful.
Does the A7s ii also have eye AF? (I did not see any clear indication any any of the reviews).
Thanks in advance
+Elisau E Yes it does. In fact all the A7 models have it, as do the A6000 and the RX models.
Extraordinarily beautiful model, oh my God how beautiful she is!!!!!!!
Thank you for the good advice brother MichaelTheMentor
Thanks! I own the A7IV and A7III. I aslo own the A7RII with the genuine Sony battery grip! One excellent camera for video, built like a miltary tank!
If I need to shoot low light sport photography with stringent AF requirement, should I buy A7Rii + 70-200 f/4 or NX1 + 50-150 f/2.8?
Hi Michael with the new recent lenses coming out for the fe mount like the 70-200 f2.8 and the 70-300 what I'm interested in is if the la ea3 adapter and Sony a mount lenses would work aswell as the fe mount versions due to the cost. Certainly second hand a mount versions would save some money, have you tested the AF performance with the la ea3 adapter and phase detect points? I have used the metabones and currently do with a few canon lenses and I'm disappointed with anything that's moving as its always out of focus of the object is moving toward or away from you, it seems by the time you press the shutter and it fires the object has moved and focus is behind the front of the subject so I'm wondering if the AF is comparable from the a mount and fe mount. Regards david
Is it the same focus system on A7ii? I guess not?
Does anyone knows what i am doing wrong, when my AF keeps on focusing the background for example even if face detection is on and there is someone standing in the middle of the clip? I feel like the AF is also in other shots just jumping and refocusing a lot. i am using AF-C. coming from only using manual focus, so thats all kind of new to me.
Thanks man. Had a a7II for 1 year, now I have switched to the a7rii but I have some difficulty to focus... This video will help me a lot !
How does this camera handle a 1 hour of interview? Does the camera suffer of heating?
It don't.
Great video~ Thank you so much!
What are your focus mode recommendations for shooting groups of 4-7 and groups of 10+? Thanks!
still mode focusing very well explained ,thanks but also pls explain movie mode focusing which has limitations in compare to still mode ,specially auto focus one , i am using sony a99mii bought recently but focusing mechanism not clear ...
These focus features don’t work with all lenses. Eye focusing doesn’t work with the Sony FE 85mm 1.8. It gives a pop up that reads, ! not with this lens. Pisses me off cause it’s a Sony lens.
Excellent summary, VERY helpful. I've had the a7R II for a month and read two books (Matsumoto and Busch) that were good starts, but you summarized and demonstrated the essentials of this complex topic in a meaningful and accessible way. I agree with Flashback, "A really great tutorial. Sony should pay you for this:-)".
The Best A7rii Review ever. Noone, up to now have explained this in detail. I Will be A7rii + 85mm 1.4 GM owner in 25 Days. Can't wait to have it and start shooting.
Leonardo B So, how's the camera?
Quarker the camera is fantastic. I got it in July and i have 2 lens with it. The Sony 85mm 1.4 GM and the Zeiss Distagon 35mm 1.4. Both of the lenses are perfect match with this camera.
Nice, that 35mm is a beast. I hate that Sony/Zeiss lenses are so expensive, compared to Canon. I just got the A7Rii a couple of days ago too, learning how to use it.
This was just the video I have been searching for since getting my Sony a7r4, thank you.
Hi Michael great video. Have you found a sweet spot while shooting on the 24-70 f4? I'm just trying to find the best way to get consistent and sharp handheld video as I will be traveling without a gamble. thanks for the helpful tutorials
Best and most helpful video on TH-cam. Thank you for your time and hard work! I’ll look into buying your tutorial.
Hi thanks for your time to explain but a part the thousand and one sets for the different focuses I have one simple question, can you focus manually just using the viewfinder ? is the viewfinder such a good quality that allow to shoot in manual focus ? insted of putting dozen of sets for the focusing couldnt they come up with a simple solution that the camera is focusing where the eye is looking ? like the canon did it for an analogic model years ago ? and once you are happy with the subjetc you just press half way the shutter button and is going to track the subjetc ? I do have a rx100iii and a a6000 but i find the focus system terrible ! and the a6000 viewfinder doesnt give me an appropriate view of the scene so I cant use it in manual focus !! thanks
I focus manually using the EVF and the focus magnifier on the a7sii in stills and video modes - and have never missed focus. However, the focus peaking is not trustworthy and I no longer use it because of too many ruined shots.
Great video Michael, thanks!
Great videos you make Michael.
I'm just wondering which autofocus mode you found to be the most reliable for moving subjects; the center lock on AF, the lock on AF expandable spot, or continuous focus?
excellent tutorial. no bullsjit involved
Nice video. thanks for the walk through. I just switched to using back button focusing and taking the focus away from the shutter button. I'm using the AF/MF switch setting to do AF and the AEL switch setting to do Eye AF.
+Logan Boyd Thats a good one!
+Logan Boyd Did the same thing. The Center button is too far and awkward.
As I do not use autofocus lenses is it possible to simply magnify the area I am focusing on as my Nikon D800 series does?
Thanks,
Ron
very very detailed and good explained. Could u walk us through the entire menu. Maybe in different video parts?
Can you see all the information presented on the back screen in this video through the viewfinder?
Great video, thanks for the tips
Thank you Thank you Thank you!!!! I switched from Canon to the Sony A7Rii and it is so frustrating!
You should have also covered back button focussing and the best way to change flexible AF point while shooting.
GOOD JOB! Excellent tutorial! Thanks for the info! 😁😎😁✔
Great video Michael thanks. Do you have anything on the 'phase detect' Should this be on or off?
Great video Michael thanks. Do you have anything on the 'phase detect' Should this be on or off?
love how camera friendly the model was and finger thing she dod was so precise
Michael, I actually have your full course but haven't come across (or missed) you talking about the AF/MF lever. The button you say switches you back and forth, but what happens when you switch the lever? It looks like between AF/MF and AEL?
Yes, that is by default but you can customize it to work differently. I believe I demonstrate this in the customization part of the deep menu
@@michaelandrew5209 Thank you -- I'll take a look. There is so much in the full course I have to take it a little slowly. What is AEL?
@@jbcadegan Auto Exposure Lock - It locks your exposure settings in P, S & A modes
@@michaelandrew5209 Thank you.
An excellent tutorial. Kudos
Great tutorial, I'm the three thousandth to like it ;)
Helped a lot. Thank you!
Hey Michael! I happen to shoot weddings with the Canon 24 - 105mm lens, a7sii on the Ronin M. Quick question: is there an auto focus function for video that works with that lens found in the a7s ii? I struggle to maintain focus especially when operating the Ronin M. Can you advise me?
The Canon lens is useless for AF on the Sony for video. Useless , Metabones adapter or not.
nice video
its difficult to me to see eye af because i have 28-135 f4 and 16-35 f 4.
Which AF systems is easiest to use and most effective: sony a7iii or fugi x-t3?
Very good! Thanks :)
Fantastic instruction, thank you! I've just become an A7SII user :)