Best Camera for Street Photography: Sony a7C and my favorite lenses by Patrick Murphy-Racey
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 13 ธ.ค. 2022
- This video explains why the Sony a7C is the best camera for doing street photography as well as offers my favorite prime lenses and zooms. The a7C weighs just 1.1 lbs. with a card and battery installed and features a proper EVF, 24mp, 11 fps, and is a full-frame body that is smaller than many APS-C bodies. I talk about the following lenses: Sony Cpmpact Prime FE24mm f/2.8G, Sony Compact Prime FE40mm f/2.5G, FE28-60mm f/4-5.6, FE55mm f/1.8 Zeiss, and the LensBaby Composer Pro with the Sweet 35mm lens. I also talk about my favorite camera strap for this setup, made by Op/Tech.
Here is the video I referenced where I spent a day in Toronto shooting along College Street last month: • Street Photography wit...
Here are my affiliate links for everything I mentioned in the video:
Sony a7C: amzn.to/3VSiG5E
Sony a7C at Bedfords.com:
Sony FE28-60mm f/4-5.6 lens: www.bedfords.com/27242921122
Sony a7C w/ FE28-60mm lens: www.bedfords.com/27242920583
Sony a7C w/ FE28-60mm lens: amzn.to/3YhnClX
Sony Compact Prime FE24mm f/2.8 lens: amzn.to/3VXNj9W
Sony Compact Prime FE24mm f/2.8 lens: www.bedfords.com/27242922594
Sony Compact Prime FE40mm f/2.5 lens: amzn.to/3Bw1s5Y
Sony Compact Prime FE40mm f/2.5 lens: www.bedfords.com/27242922600
Sony 55mm f/1.8 Zeiss lens from Sony w/free shipping: tinyurl.com/3ffe4x7u
Sony 55mm f/1.8 Zeiss lens: amzn.to/3UVKdSi
Sony 55mm f/1.8 Zeiss lens: www.bedfords.com/27242868175
LensBaby Composer Pro with Sweet 35 lens: amzn.to/3W8Bygn
OP/Tech compact camera strap: amzn.to/3VSMLlp
Excellent advice i was looking for, thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
Nice advice, thank you. Next week I will buy this camera 😉
Thanks for reminding me what a nice little gem this camera is. I had it sit in the drawer for some time, but your comments together with the lens selection reminded me to use it with compact glass like the 24-28, 24 and 40. Thank you very much.
my pleasure!!!
I agree with your assessment on the A7C, I love mine too. Not just for street photography but also for a lightweight companion for hiking, skiing, or other outdoor pursuits. I also love the small g series and own all three. I’d add the 85mm f/1.8 into the mix too for street photography. My favorite street setup is 24mm f/2.8 G, 40mm f/2.5 G and the 85mm f/1.8. Informative video as usual thanks!
100%! The 85mm f/1.8 and the 20mm f/1.8G are two of the least talked about yet awesome lenses Sony makes. I did a trip with my wife to Paris (France, not Tennessee) a few years ago and only brought the 28 f/2 and the 85. I didn't regret it at all!
@@PMRTV I would love to hear more about the 28/2.
Exactly my setup (28 and 40). Love the way it feels in the hand. Someone online called it the "Fuji-Killer" because it's so compact. Excellent video.
Fuji makes great gear too, but the glass and bodies are really heavy to me...
Thanks for this video. I'm checking all your recommendations! Happy Holidays! PS: Some example shots of each photo situation that you describe would really add value to this video!
duly noted!!!
This is awesome was talking to someone about a 3rd body and this video popped up. I’m sold just ordered it to pair with the a1 and a9
Thank-you for your videos! I have mostly watched them for sports photography settings as my kids participate in Taekwondo, and over the last 5 years I have gotten deeper into photo and video. I’m a complete amateur here who started with a friends hand-me-down RX10ii … then picked up a cheap RX10iii … then an a7sii for video …
Because of your videos I hired an a9ii and f2.8/70-200 to see what “a real sports setup” was like … and it blew me away! It was so far above anything I expected, and I realised that I didn’t need that, but I wanted to go full frame.
I almost purchased an a7c before a recent work trip to Italy, but ended up taking my trusty RX10iii. Since getting back I have purchased my first serious new full frame, an a7iv, and some used lenses, f1.8/85 and f4/70-200 … and this is proving to be exactly the level that I am comfortable with, and giving me amazing sports results.
Now I’m looking at the a7c again as a second body for additional sports shots and travel, now that travel is back on the cards. I think it’ll make a great addition to the a7iv, especially with a solid 35 or 50 lens … or knowing how I work it’ll be both!
You have helped me down a path that I never knew existed … and now don’t want to get off.
You are very kind--your comments make me want to keep making videos!!!! Sony makes it hard not to keep investing in their system!!!
This was great! I'd normally have the Sony 35mm 1.8, and the 85 in my bag if I'm tooling around a city (usually Toronto). The 85mm is surprisingly handy when I don't want to interfere with something going on. Yes, a7C here too. I embraced the vintage rangefinder feel, and did a leather half-case and strap. As much as I like new things, this camera would be difficult to give up. I'd be interested in what an a7C II would bring, but even then I'm kind of in love with what I have. I used to change cameras like underpants.
I have the A7C too and I love it. I have mostly been doing portraits and not much street, but my prime lens that I love is the Sigma 65mm F2 DG DN from their i-series. Fantastic series of lenses I think, compact with great build & image quality.
I've always wanted to try the 65mm f/2!
From the clinical tests the Sigma, 65mm, f2, DG DN seems like the sharpest thing out there. Though I have the focal length covered by my Sony, 50mm, f2.5, G & Sigma, 90mm, f2.8 lenses, the sharpness is the chief reason I’m still considering the 65mm. In addition to that, I’m also taken with its compact size, really cool clicky aperture ring, and metal build. There are a few things still preventing me from pulling the trigger. I’d be looking to use it with my Everyday carry grab and go A7C, and while it is just a little longer than my ideal sized, tiny, Sony, 50mm, f2.5, G I can still make it work. I’m more-so questioning if 65mm is passable as an everyday carry focal length? I love my 90mm, Sigma but wouldn’t regard it as an everyday/all the time lens, (too punched in). My 50mm gives me great intimate shots and I can make it work to take in the entire field (capture groups of people) if I have enough room to step back, but wondering if the 65mm would be past the sweet spot. For this reason I’m also considering 35mm options, which would fit into the all around everyday carry focal length). I can see the portrait use case for the 65, but would you switch to something else for everyday more casual use?
Great job! I use the a7c and the 40mm as my street set-up from the day the 40 arrived. It feels like im using my Sony rx1r2 with BETTER image quality. I would have loved image samples. Seems like it would have been the perfect video to include a few stills cut in. Oh well. You info was spot on! I will add I also use Lecia M lenses adapted manually and with the Techart pro as well for a more vintage look. Really enjoyed your chat. Thank you!!!!
The A7c with the 35 1.8 may as well be welded together for me. I love that combo. I use all Peak design straps and I think the leash pairs really well with this setup for me. It is so light I find myself using the cuff a lot too, it does force you to carry a small bag though if you want to free up your hands. I don't have the 55 but this video is making me seriously consider it.
yes!!! The FE35mm f/1.8 kind of got left in the dust after they came out with the 35GM but it is also a great lens too, and not very heavy either. Greeat point thanks for commenting :)
@@PMRTV I have the gm too, but at half the weight I will take 1.8 all day for street/casual travel. Great little lens even at 1.8-2
Hi Pat, just got my a7c paired with Sony 35mms 1.8, hoping to do video also that's why the 1.8, anyway, I'm loving the setup. This video helped my decide. Thank you, great content and love your delivery. Cheers.
thanks so much!!!
Very good selection of lenses. Thank you for this video. I have and love Sony ZA 35mm 2.8mm That special look!
Thanks for watching!
Cool video, I agree with compact primes from Sony. I have all three and love them. Hoping for more lenses in this series. I use an A6600 for street and love it. Did look at the A7c and almost pulled the trigger on one, so now waiting on version II hopefully in early 2023. Will say the Sigma 18-50 f2.8 on the A6600 is great for street shooting. I take that and Tamron 11-20 f2.8 and a Samyang 75mm f1.8 and have a great compact set-up that gives me great options. I do also have a Ricoh GR III for more sensitive situations or when I'm not in the mood to carry much. Great little camera, yes, it has some shortcomings but the IQ in that compact body with IS makes for an amazing tool.
that's a lot of gear! I'd love to know if the new Viltrox 75mm f/1.2 is any good (aps-c).
My favorite setup for street photography is the Nikon Zfc with the 28mm f2.8....love it.
I have an a7c as well but I don't like the viewfinder.
So tempting, even today! We do a lot of hiking, some photos and video. This could work well. Basic set up maybe 28-60 and the 24mm 2.8? Weatherproof would be helpful though, but not critical. Largely light and good value would be my main concerns. Great information and video!
yes!!! though I might consider a 20mm instead to really get wide when you need it. I'm hoping Sony will make more compact primes like 20mm f/2.8G, 85mm f/2.5G, 180mm f/3.5G
Excellent video from a seasoned photographer! I'm craving a full frame digital so the A7C ii will be it. Not sure it was out when you did this video? I may go with a sigma lens at first simply for economical reasons! Thanks again for this factual and very clear explanation of your gear!
Have fun!that's correct, the A7CII was not out when I made this video. I traded up myself from A7C to A7CII. Check out the silver one--it's sweet and wears better than the black bodies and looks retro, like me!
Hope your hand is healing well. Love this video because i love this form factor from Sony. I was a Sony NEX shooter back in the day. I'm also a left eye shooter. Really considering this camera not just for street but as a daily.
I'm a lefty too! Works great for me but if you wear glasses, pull off the rubber eyecup.
@@PMRTVis the rubber eyecup easily removable? could you explain how? i bought my a7c secondhand with broken evf glass and haven't found an easy way to remove it in order to make a fix.
i was surprised to find so many others online with the same issue but no solutions (or even a disassembly guide).
Thanks for this report. I agree that the A7c is a very good camera for street photography. But in my opinion it would be even better if it had the old tilt-only display. I really don't understand why you use the viewfinder when you want to take pictures without being noticed. And the A7c in particular, with its fantastic Real Time Tracking AF, is ideal for tapping on the display what you want to have in focus - and then concentrating on the composition of the picture. All while holding the camera comfortably in front of the stomach, at a height that is ideal for many images.
I hear you on the back screen... I prefer to shoot from the hip with the older version back screens but as I use the a7C for vlogging, being able to see myself as I'm recording is invaluable. Maybe Sony will give a future a7C the new back screen on the a7RV. It does EVERYTHING well.
nice analysis
thanks so much!!!
Thanks for the review, great camera, i like the size. We have a A7III and the A6400, the apsc is used by my wife because of the weight, especially with some zoom lenses attached, its weight is just so much more to handle. The A7C is in IQ really a step-up compared to the A6400. For now we are fine until Sony comes out with the new A7CII, hoping it will have the A7IV sensor and the A7RV firmware :D, now that will be an upgrade for the A6400.
I know, why wait, but hey we already have great camera's it's not that we can't shoot great pictures with it, it's just our choice and the hope is strong :)
I do the same. May consider the 40mm. Thanks for reviewing.
you bet!!!
Great video. I use the Sony 85/1.8 and the Sony 50/1.8 (which is a surprisingly cheap lens) for night shots. Even though it's not that small, I use the Tamron 17-28/2.8 and get great results. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for sharing
FINALLY! I have been waiting for you to talk about this set up. I use apsc lenses to keep things small, and when I need the FF treatment I use FF glass. And yeah the EVF is useable and worth it.
My carry around lenses are the 20/2.8 apsc (shot in FF mode and 1:1 ratio) and the 50GM. The lens becomes the object and the a7c is the accessory.
I also use my a7C for vlogging riding my motorcycle and I use the 11mm f/1.8 APS-C lens when I do that. The camera automatically goes into crop mode and I still get 4K as the sensor has enough MP to go around. Great point about using APS-C glass on the a7C!!!
@@PMRTV My favorite all around lens is the 1655/2.8. Because I can shoot this in 4k for both photos and videos. And since the photos are just for me I don't mind finishing them off by upscalling them to 24MP. That 1655/2.8 glass produces beautiful rendering, and for the size, focal range, speed there is nothing that produces better results. I compared it to the 24105/4 Tamron 2875/2.8 and I prefer the output of the 1655/2.8 by a mile.
A7c is great for street. No doubt. I shoot every day here in NYC too, love it. For another lens option... I can't recommend Voigtlander high enough. Range focus is exactly dialed in perfectly. The good ones have near Zeiss level rendering. Super small. Extremely good build. The 21/3.5 color skopar + 40/1.2 Nokton... Just killer combo. Both plus the body plus some goodies fit in a 3L sling with room to spare. Nothing beats range focus for a city like this. Best street kit I've ever used, for sure.
I do love those tiny G primes for AF situations, tho. Along with the Sony 35/2.8 ZA and 85/1.8 FE... The A7c has such good options for both manual and auto.
Good time to be a photographer 🙌
I'm in the AARP, so AF only for me these days ;)
Love my a7c, it's easily the best budget Leica set up for street photography and a perfect camera for vintage lenses as well.
It really is!
Yes, the A7C is good for street photography and I
I use it with VoigtlanderMF /VM lenses.e. 90mm f2.8, 40 mm f1.4, 35 mm f2.5 and a 21 mm f1.8. These lenses are small and compact and suits the A7C body very well.
I totally agree. The A7C is the best for street. It’s not as sexy as the Fujis. I don’t mind because it feels like a hidden secret. I got it for the full frame as I found myself shooting more at night now. My fave setup is the 50mm f2.5, you’ll be surprised. If you like shooting that 40mm it’s exactly the same feeling regarding handling.
I thought I’d use the Sony 35mm 2.8 and Rokinon 24mm f2.8 but the 50 on it is magic. My only wish is for more pancake sized lenses like those released G lenses. I know ff needs bigger lenses but for a street setup the smaller the better.
Just stumbled upon your video. I love my A7C and use it with the Samyang Tiny series: 18mm 2.8, 35mm 1.8 and 75mm 1.8.
Especially the 35mm is a great lens and it’s my go to. Not sure if I stay with the 18mm, it sometimes is a bit too wide for my style. Now I’m eying the 24mm 2.8
thanks patrick
Hi I am going to want for the new a7C II that will come out this years.
I love my 40mm f2.5 G. Like you say, unless someone tells you about it, it is unlikely that you would even know about it. I also agree that the peak design strap is overkill for the A7C. I got rid of i on mine and just used the stock strap from Sony. I might have to look into that Op/Tech strap
Peak makes a leash it’s thin
Ok I love this video.
Do you have the Zeiss 35 f2.8? I was thinking that might be a good street lens too.
I used to but not anymore. The FE35mm f/1.8 is also a great lens for street photography that I did not mention.
My favorite combination for street photography is the a6600 and the 24mm GM which gives an effective focal length of a 35mm. Sometimes I'll even put the 16-35mm GM on the a6600, but not often. And just for fun, I'll sometimes use the 135mm GM on the a6600 for a really fast 200mm lens. I tried the 24mm G, 40mm G, 50mm G, and the 16-35mm PZ, but just didn't care for them.
I can tell you are a bokeh monster... Once you get used to the look of the fast GM primes wide open in FF, you get kind of hooked. The GM glass is its own kind of crack for sure! I would point out though that with a7C you get the best of both worlds, as I can shoot the 135 at 135mm which you can't do on the A6XXX series. I task the focus hold button the lenses to do aps-c/FF so I can punch in and out using the sensor to zoom. This works really well for me. And I will admit, the a6600 with the Z battery makes that system really sing... Great post and thoughts.
I have the a7c and my favorite combination is with Sigma 65 f2, I also use the Samyang 35 1.8, Sony 20mm 1.8 and Sony 85mm 1.8. 😉
This was super helpful! I have my first kid on the way and it's my justification for upgrading my camera after 8 years. Kind of overwhelmed with options but this seems like that I want. I want something compact that im willing to grab over my phone. I want it feel nice in the hand. I've always wanted full frame but I know i don't neeeeed it. Any suggestions for the right combo of gear to capture family moments? The mix of mostly photo but also video is nice.
believe it or not, the 28-60 kit lens is great for video. As for shooting the kids, I'd go for the 55mm f/1.8 or 85mm f/1.8.
THANKS FOR YOUR ADVISE, ONLY ONE DOUBT ABOUT LIGHT APERTURE OF THOSE ZOOM LENSES F4 YOU SUGGESTED INSTEAD OF F2.8.? TAKE CARE THANK YOU
The “ancient” 35mm f2.8 Zeiss is a gem of size, image resolution and sharpness
true, that!
been rocking my a6000 with the Sigma 30 1.4 for 8 years now. I do have the 16mm as well and also a zoom, but I shot 98% of my images throughout the years with the Sigma.
That lands almost right exactly what you enjoy with your 40 mm :)
I've been fighting with myself if I should upgrade to the A7C. I absolutely love that it's the same size and weight as the APS-C bodies and the would also be interested in the 55 1.8 and some 35mm , which would be just as light as an APSC loadout.
thank you for your insights!
I did the same exact thing you did with the three fast sigma primes. the a7C is so much better though. Full frame is just the bomb.
Prefer tilt screens to flip screens for street so i don't have to lift the camera to my eyes but still want the A7C
I hear you. I agree for stills as it's difficult to keep the horizon straight with the newer flippy screens... but for video, it's nice to flippy :)
Great review, like it much. I have 28mm f2 and 50mm f2.5 compared with your 24mm and 40mm , any thoughts?
Awesome video! I also love the a7c for street, and I try to pair it with smaller and lighter lenses. The 35mm 1.8 is a great lens, but it's longer than the 40mm 2.5, especially with the lens hood on. The small g lenes look cool, but I really want a true pancake lens for this camera, like the 20mm 2.8 for apsc. I want to be able to easily pocket this camera and tKe it everywhere.
Totally agree! I've gone to just using a filter on the 40G and no shade--tiny!!!
@patrickmoney1894 I also am having this thought about pairing smaller APSC lenses with the full frame camera for an overall more compact setup. The tiny, Sony, 20mm, f2.0, APSC lens won’t produce the sharpest images when paired with a full frame camera, and barrel distortion is a fact of life with this lens, but you’ll have one of the most compact set ups you can get. Also, any handheld video you’d shoot would come with the built in Optical stabilization the lens provides, (a feature scarcely seen on sony full frame lenses). On top of that, it is relatively cheap on the used market (~$120 gently used) . I’m not a fan of barrel distortion and this compact wonder is just as bad as the Sony, 24mm, f2.8,G uncorrected except it doesn’t have the 24mm, g sharpness. Sharpness isn’t everything and some value it more than others. Corrected makes the edges of the frame fuzzy and stretched, but maybe this is OK if going for this type of look like I do sometimes. Still, at the price, and for what you want in terms of compactness, this could be a great pairing!
Can you do a video of your recommended settings for the A7c for street photography. I just bought me an A7c and want to start doing st photography
I use the same settings for just about everything I shoot:
"tracking: flexibible M"
Right now I”m using the Sony 28mm f2 and good old el cheapo 50mm 1.8 with my A7C, but those new lenses look cool. I would be interested in the 40 or 50mm. The A7C is a beast and my fave camera so far and Ive owned many including the A7iii and the A7sii. The older I get the smaller and simpler my gear gets..
Totally agree! entered the AARP membership almost ten years ago so I know what you mean!!!
Pat I’d love to hear how you are working with the reduced dials and controls on the A7c vs the ‘big’ cameras. I’ve been intrigued by your videos about this camera but I feel like the lack of a front dial would drive me nuts.
Because I was an early convert to Sony, I'm used to the shutter speed being on the ISO dial on the back of the camera. There is a small rotating wheel at your right thumb position that controls the aperture. Because I'm a 100% manual exposure guy, there are only those two controls and it's really easy to get used to.
@@PMRTV Thanks, Pat. I may finally have to bite the bullet and start trying to rewrire my muscle memory. I switched from an F3 to an EOS 630 (I seem to remember you saying you did too about the same time) and never took a detour through Nikon before finally switching to Sony a few years ago, so I have a lotta years with SS under my index finger to undo :-)
Etsy has camera straps with lugs for peak design that are super thin and well made. Love them for my a6600
I'll check these out. I didn't know that! thanks, pat :)
Great video, new subscriber. What’s your thoughts on the Leica Q3 for street photography? Deciding between A7c and Q3 to use for street vs. lugging my D5 around.
Thanks for the sub! Not sure. I only shoot with Sony cameras and glass. they have so many to choose from and I love their sensors...
Just bought the A7c and the 35 1.4 GM lense. May add more glass later. The camera and lense are awesome.
I was shooting mine today, along with the 85mm f/1.8 too :)
Just starting with street photogr. I think i made the right choice to buy the A7Cr with the 28 prime in lieu of the Leica Q3. Great review.
Good choice! try the 40mm f/2.5 next. It will match up great with your 28mm.
I still use my Pen F for street and it works great. Could be a lot better with Sony’s focusing system.
a7c is so underrated!
100%
Great take on the a7C and various lenses for street photography! Although I agree that those compact primes are sharp, one personal caveat for me is the issue of having to switch lenses while running around in NYC. Sometimes, it’s really inconvenient to swap lenses; whether it’s missing a critical moment, dusty or rainy weather, or just a preference to not draw too much attention to camera gear. That being said, what do you think of the new Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 for Sony FE? It seems wide enough and can cover up to 40mm, it’s f/2.8 and also quite light (365g)?
they quietly started making a new kit lens--the 28-60--this is a really sharp lens and it's tiny and lite. Try one and see what you think :)
The Tamron 20-40 and my A7C is good couple, especially if i would not like to change lenses ( Street, family, travel)
I certainly think the a7c is a decent street camera, perhaps the best but certainly not perfect.
I use a Sony a7iii and with a small prime it too can be great for street (I own a samyang 45mm f1.8 which works well for street).
I used to own an a6000 and since I use right eye I actually like the rangefinder styling with viewfinder to one side. That viewfinder though isn't good enough for a camera this price. It needs to be bigger and ideally higher resolution.
The other thing I'd like to see are physical dials for iso and shutter speed. I know you can map functions to buttons but you still need to hold camera up to eye to check settings. I sometimes like to take a photo without anyone knowing I am. Being able to see my current iso, aperture and shutter helps. I've tried connecting my a7iii to apps on my phone but doesn't work. The Sony app has terrible lag. A great third party app requires cabled connection for a7iii though will work wirelessly in newer cameras. Sony could easily make the perfect street camera but haven't done so yet. They could easily compete with Fuji on price and there are plenty of great lenses already. I feel a retro looking rangefinder like a Fuji but full frame would sell well.
Leica veteran here. I’m going back and forth on buying an a7C. I think this with the 40/2.5 (like the old Summicron 40 f/2) and an old collapsible Elmar 90 would be a perfect combo. On the downside, squinting into the small finder concerns me. Given “dog years” (great phrase), I’m hoping Sony will do an a7Cii with higher magnification in the finder.
The Leica M3 has .91x magnification; I think only the A1 and A7RV come anywhere close to that (even an M11 is just .72x, and the A7c is only .59x, all with 50mm lenses).
I agree with you David about the EVF not being ideal but I have to tell you, a short afternoon with the camera will show you how easy it is to get sharp. My trick is using focus peaking in red, but only using the lowest setting. When people try to use faster glass with focus peaking and they select medium or high, the peaking bleeds beyond the limits of the lens. Using the lightest setting allows you to accurately get perfect sharpness at minimum distance with Summilux lenses and faster. The 40 Compact Prime is really sharp and won't suffer from all the purple fringing you get with period M glass and the AF is way beyond snappy--it's other worldly fast.
As an airline pilot I've been using my A7C as a travel body and street setup on overnights. I have the 24/40/50 trio and love them especially the 24mm. I've also been carrying the 16-35/f4 plz. A lot more useful for shots in and around the aircraft. Would be nice if it were an f2 but then it would be huge! I'm going to try the Sigma 18-50 f2.8. it is an apsc lens but nice and small.
that sigma lens is also pretty lightweight too! You might check out the Sony 10-20 lens--it's really sharp and super tiny.
@jettubby17 Thanks for your comment. I really like the idea of the tiny size, clicky aperture ring, and sharpness in the center of the Sony, 24mm, f2.8, G, but can’t get past the outrageous barrel distortion. It’s apples and oranges but I’ll still say I have the Sony ZV1 compact, 24-70mm zoom, which also has mad distortion at 24mm, and am I’m not satisfied how it stretches faces and bodies outside of center frame. How do you deal with this owning the lens?
@@Cthames123 some of that compensated and post by light rooms lens files. You can also manipulate the barrel distortion and Post if you wish or just keep that wide angle look. Depends on what you’re photographing. Probably not so much with that lens unless you’re putting them right in the center.
@@jettubby17 I gotcha. I don't like to do a whole lot of cleaning up in post (time). I end up doing it sometimes but don't like to. It's hard for me going into a purchase knowing a lens is going to be a lot of work to get something useful out of. I have the marvelous, Sony 24mm, f1.4, GM which has no distortion whatsoever. I'd like to have something as tiny as the 24mm, f2.8,G but just can't come to grips with the compromises, (especially for $600). I have the Sony, 50mm, f2.5 and man am I ever happy with that lens. No distortion, beautiful build quality, clicky aperture ring, all in the tiny form factor. I don't mind paying $600 for that one😊.
@jettubby17 Inspired by the author I am thinking about getting the tiny, Sony, 40 mm, f2.5, G as a slightly tighter proxy to the 35 mm focal length. Sounds like 24mm is your fav of the bunch but where would you place the 40mm? Having a 24mm and a 50mm what situations do you use the 40mm?
Sony 28mm F2 is a great prime as well 🙌🏼 it’s a little smaller than 55mm 1.8
i use the sigma 35 1.4 lens for my walk around lens
NY NY.
Great points. Nice tempting little camera.
I have an a6300 and several modest lenses (best one is Sigma 16 1.4). Changeover to more mirrorless perhaps could be done at cost I might handle with trade ins. Which to - SONY or NIKON? I primarily use DSLR (DX and FX + lots of lenses for them) rather than the SONY.
Sony is the future. Nikon is the past... my .02 FWIW :)
I switched from the A6300 (Samyang 12mm F2, sigma 16mm f1.6, sel35mm f1.8, sel50mm f1.8, sel85mm f1.8, sel90mm f2.8 makro) to the A7c and couldn't be happier. It was really expensive but worth it. Capturing small children running around the Christmas tree in low light, is no problem. The first lens I bought was the Zeiss sel55f18z and short after that, the sigma 28-70 f2.8. The kit lens isn't as good as the sigma, but a lot smaller. If you go out on a sunny day and don't need f2.8, the small, light kit lens is great.
Good video on the A7C. I am contemplating on purchasing it as my 1st Sony full frame leaving Canon 77D. I am needing low light body and some video for an affordable price.
The newer a7CII is even better with a newer sensor that performs great in low light and has 32mp instead of 24! amzn.to/3Qg3VIa
@@PMRTV I will have to check out this model you speak of. 💪
Great video, Patrick. I use a Nikon Z5 with either a 27mm 2.8 or a 40mm F2 Z lens for street. The camera is lightweight {under 2 lbs with street prime lens) but offers a large grip which really helps. I tend to zone focus in good light with 1/1200 shutter and at least a F5.6 or greater aperture for enough depth of field to get most subjects in focus (auto ISO). I often shoot from the hip or chest and then crop in post so the fast shutter is a must to freeze action while walking. The Nikon 24-50 Z kit lens also works surprisingly well and only adds $200 to the price of the camera when purchased new in a kit. The great news is the Z5 is only a thousand dollars during the holidays and has dual card slots and a very nice full frame sensor. I usually leave the camera in 3 frames per second mode when shooting to capture enough frames to get the action without cluttering my SD card with too many unusable frames. I would love to test a new Sony with AI auto focus for the street and see if it is fast enough to use autofocus with fast 2.0 apertures while walking around. The Z5 has good autofocus but is not fast or accurate enough to use for moving subjects on the go. Zone/range focus works great if there is enough light.
Would you say this would take better photos than either the Sony rx10 mk4 and Leica q2?
just watching this video now in anticipation of the A7CR, wondering why you picked the 40mm 2.5 G lens instead of the 50mm?
I didn't. I have both! LOL, I love all three of the compact primes and hope they make an 85/90mm soon too. 40mm is just a cool focal length, especially for shooting people. You can get a smidge closer to people and still see the environment. 35 get's too wide sometimes and 50mm too limiting??
Concerning the Fuji lineup, the X-E4 is the correct comparator to the Sony a7C. It's *much* smaller and lighter than the Sony (364g to 509g), and costs $1000 less. The a7C's advantages are that it's full frame, the lens options go much deeper, and the Sony has better focusing. If I ever get over the emotional stress of selling off my beloved Fuji kit, the a7C is the camera I'd buy.
I love mine!!!
perefct 2nd / backup camera too for your main rig.
and now they made the perfect camera for me: a7CII. I have two on order and can't wait to start shooting with them!
I use either one or two Cameras for street photography, the Sony A7 RIV and the Sony A7RIVA in either full frame or APSC mode. I wish Sony will make all their Cameras in the design style like the A7C ! For street photography I either use only one or two to three Lenses, it could be the Sony 14mm 1.8, Sony 24mm 1.4 GM, Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm 2.0 Aspherical, Sony Zeiss Sonnar 55mm 1.8, Voigtländer Macro APO-Lanthar 65mm 2.0 Aspherical or the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM.
Wow, manual focus lenses mixed in there--love it!!! Do you use focus peaking with the Voigtländer glass? I find the lowest setting works best for me to get the most accurate focus... I used to have the 21mm f/4 Skopar and loved it. I wish I still had that one!!!
@@PMRTV Hi, yes I love manual focus Lenses, I will replace my AF Lenses with manual ones when some come up in the same image quality. I am not using the focus peaking so much, I mostly use the magnification which are automatic with mine Voigtländer Lenses, I get the sharpness exactly where I want it to be 100% of the time (which AF cannot do !). Please do some some reviews of manual focusing Lenses, thank you. I can very highly recommend the APO 35mm which are my most used Lens at the moment. I like to use fully manual modes on the Camera, shutter, ISO and aperture, focusing on the Lens, it is neither the Camera nor the Lens that are creative, it is us behind the gear.
Not having a "joy" stick, how do you move the "focus zone" around on the a7c? I heard you can do it with the "d" pad but I'm not sure how you would activate that feature.
I don't. I use "tracking: flexible spot M" for virtually everything
My fav street...(for that matter everything) camera...I am an American retired in. Bangkok..I have used most formats m43...apsc...FF...4X5 etc. currently I have one A7c and a pair of A7s bodies...planning on getting one more A7c (second hand price is now very reasonable here. (Update: traded out one A7s for an additional A7c)...cheers
(by the way the Sony 70-200/4 works just fine on the a7c body)..left hand supports the lens right hand on the shutter....a strap should be attached to the lens to mitigate stress on the camera when transport or carry. 😎 Plan on adding a Sony FE 200-600/5.6-6-3 in the next couple of months.
Patrick, have you tried the new Sony 20-70 2.8 G zoom lens on the a7C?
yes, and I love it. Here is my affiliate link--help a guy out!!! tinyurl.com/85m83p3n
Having shot almost exclusively street photography for the past 14 years, IMO that tilt-to-the-side screen is the most anti street photogtraphy screen ever made. It makes the camera bigger when seen from the front, it's very uncomfortable having the screen not aligned with the lens and scene in front of you, it takes 3 moves to get into position instead of just 1 (so much slower)... and I could go on. I really wanted to like this camera for SP, but for that very reason I ended up selling it after 4 months. And BTW, getting a wide (25/28mm) manual color-skopar lens and zone-focusing beats any autofocus lens out there.. (for street shooting).
Even it’s full frame , winner is Fuji APC censor best for street photography , reason for better colours & great black & white quality.
too much depth of field, cameras are huge for the tiny sensors inside, and their lenses are too heavy by a mile IMO.
I've enjoyed this video especially since I'll be receiving my A7C ii in a week or so. I like primes as you clearly do also. Q; whats a scenario where you'd use the 40 over the 24 shooting street? Seems like a 24 or 28 and a longer prime would be more useful for me. I have a ton of lenses for my Fuji so I'm not going to load up on sony lenses but I'm looking for a prime as my EDC on the Sony. Would it be the 24 or 40 for you. Thanks, hope to hear from you but I certainly understand if I don't. Again, thank you for clear cut explanations of your choices. ✓
There is no correct prime for doing street photography, IMO. Just use what you feel is best in each situation. I dig the 24/40 combo though...
Have you thought about using your Fuji glass on the Sony?
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I consider the a7c just for for all kind of private use not only for street. I think the combo with the kit and the 40 prime would cover everything I need in full format quality with excellent af. Can you agree? Thanks
love the 40cp and a7C combo...
"Full frame is better than crop sensor, it just is". I have the Fuji X-H2 and the Sony a7CII. My 2 cents: there's no better. Lenses for APS-C are much smaller, which in counterpart allows you to get wider aperture lenses for the same size as the narrower relative full frame. I have two f/1.2 lenses for the Fuji that are relatively compact and blow away the A7CII on night shots. I'm no Fuji or Sony fanboy, I think each of these brands has their place in the market. But I can't agree with that statement, the photos I get from the APS-C Fuji are absolutely stunning. For night street or nearly 80% of the cases (like urban, portraits) I'm way more into taking the APS-C Fuji than the full frame Sony. One thing is for sure, when it comes to value for what you get, APS-C is the winner by a laaarge margin!
You might hear or not about a lens what beats all of the lenses that you showed in this video. The lens is Tamron 20-40mm F 2.8. That is 5 lenses in one at f2.8. A perfect landscape at 20-24mm and a perfect street at 28-35-40mm. Light, very sharp and only $699. A perfect fit for your Sony A7C. I use it on the A73 but waiting for the new A7C??? to fit with this lens. Sharper than the Sony 16-35 f4 G lens.
cool!
If i could choose one lens the 24mm or the 40mm for every day shoot and adventures and document life which one would you recommend? (Like the x100v vibe)
40mm
Hi! Would you say the A7C is still better to buy second hand than the successor A7CII? Coming from a old DLSR 😅. Would like to know your opinion. greetings
no. it's not a matter of just having more features--it's all about the sensor. the A7III sensor is in the A7C. The sensor in the A7CII comes from the A7IV which is vastly superior to the earlier one.
I would stick with the 55 Zeiss over the new 50. The 55 Zeiss is absolutely amazing straight outta camera raw...Also the 35 Zeiss needs a refresh with new tech, I think they could probably even get it down to a 2.5 vs 2.8 at the least.
yes, but this requires the use of the Wizard II system by LPA Designs. Pretty much only AI and the NBA can afford it as it's really expensive and complicated to set up. You can search for "LPA Wizard II" on google and learn more :)
if youre starting photography and wanted to purchase your first fullframe camera, is a7c more than enough for an amateur photography but planning to use it for business in future? very confused between buying the a7c or a7cii, price difference here in philiippines is almost 800usd. planning to pair it with the tamron 20-40 2.8 and yongnuo 85 1.8. thanks
I would advise you to look closely at the sensor. If you buy the A7C, you are buying a sensor that was new in April of 2018, some 7 years ago. The sensor in the A7CII is shared with the A7IV, which is just three years ago. The newer sensor is better in low light and offers big advantages in video as it can capture 4K in 10 bit color gamut, which is a game-changer! However, if you only shoot in daylight and never shoot video, the A7C would save you money and work well for you. Great question!!!
I was expecting you to mention the 28mm Sony lens. I could see myself with the 28mm, 35mm, 55mm lens. Always avoided Sony for some reason however been shooting street with film and a fujifilm x100v. Might step into Sony a7ii or c for street
I'm not a fan of the 28mm f/2 they make. It's sharp but has a good bit of distortion
Congratulations on scoring a X100V. I was on the waiting list X one year before Fuji discontinued manufacturing the V. Preordered the VI on day one. May have to wait a year or two to receive it. Considering canceling the preorder to get the XT50.
Just purchased an A7C yesterday. Want to see if there really is a significant difference between FF and APSC. Also want to experience the Sony autofocus. Either I’ll like the A7C or not. Who knows?
Why do you want to enter Sonyland?
Mask On Nurse Marty(Ret)
I’ll have to research the xt50
I hope you're right, and still feel the same way 7 months later because I am waiting delivery of an A7c.
cool!!! enjoy!
It’s been two years since this camera came about. Now it only sells for $1600. Is an updated model coming out?
not sure on that but I'd love one with the a7IV sensor inside and with 4:2:2 10 bit video!!!!
Sigma 90mm 2.8 is a great match too. The A7C is still my favorite Sony camera
I've never shot that one but I love how small and compact it is. I'm hoping Sony will produce a 90mm f/2.5 Compact Prime in the near future as I'd buy one immediately.
@@PMRTV 100% Me too. My hope also is they make a 75mm 1.8. Samyang makes one but not a huge fan
@@christopherkorey2602 I have the Samyang 75mm f1.8 and while I agree it doesn't feel great and not much to it, the images it produces are sharp and the shallow depth of field is very nice. I got mine cheaply, and figured it wasn't a big investment so if it was terrible wouldn't be painful loss but it's honestly a keeper. It holds up well to my Sony compact primes.
@@SilatShooter Glad to hear you are enjoying it. I could get past the build quality as I think it's actually a benefit to keeping the weight down. It was the image quality I had a problem with. For me it had an overly warm color cast that I would have to correct in post. I do agree it is sharp, especially for the price and worked well for still images. Moving images I thought it struggled a bit. All of this is just my experience and happy to hear it's working for you.
May I suggest a screen protection foil? It's much easier than always flipping the screen around. 😅
not sure what you mean by this???
@@PMRTV There screen protectors for camera screens similar to the ones you find for mobile phones. It's a thin plastic film.
Since I'm in your age group or maybe a bit older, I wonder how you get along with this rather small view finder. Can't even think how that goes in bright sunlight. Kind of the biggest draw back for me. I wish a mark II came out w. a larger view finder. I'm still hesitant wether or not to go w. the A7C.
I bought an A7C yesterday. The EVF isn’t great. It is perfectly fine. I use the EVF all the time. One reason I’m not too keen on the GR is the lack of a viewfinder. YMMV.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
@@martingreenberg870 My comment is quite an old one. I have purchased a second hand A7C a while ago and am pretty OK w. the EVF. I'm a Fuji guy mostly so the A7C isn't getting much milage but when it comes to fast action and being bullet proof I'm going w. the Sony although the color science ism't my piece of cake.
I'm done with big DSLRs for street photography. So are everyone. Point-and-shoots are now king of street photography unless you include iphone and the likes into the fray.
I do street photography with an a9ii and 50mm f1.2 gm
Thnaks for your informations about the 7c camera . I like to read your opinion about the 16 x 35 zoom 2.8. I am a professional Italian photographer doing also landscape photography. At the moment i work with nikon and few lenses 35 x 70 12 x 24 etc but for reportage and holiday pictures I am lookinjg of a light camera and top quality lenses. I appreciate your comment about your lenses and camera. I like to buy this camera expecially for the weight . Thanks again ciao Flavio Milano
You might want to take a look at the newer FE16-35mm f/4 PZ lens. I just bought it and will be doing landcapes out in Nevada next week with it. Paired with the new FE70-200mm f/4G lens, it's a lightweight kit that would be ideal for travel but able to do serious work too.
Nice video. I call it a “pocket battleship.”
Right on
I use Canon G5xii, looking forward a7cii
I've now shot it--AMAZING!!!!
I have sony a7c and i am a newbie. I have 28-75 mm Tamron and 85mm 1.8. I want to buy a sony G lens to match the vibes of my camera. What do you recommend me to buy from these trio lenses - sony Fe 24mm f2.8 G or 40mm 2.5 or 50mm ?
Because of the lenses you already have, I'd tell you to go for the FE24mm f/2.8 Compact prime. It pairs great with the a7C as a walk around camera. Also, look into how to activate the "clear image zoom" feature on your a7C and then you will be able to zoom into about 50mm +/- without taking the lens off.
@@PMRTV thank you for your recommendation. Clear image zoom was new thing for me. Thank you alot.
This camera is now at around 1k euros, where I live, would you still recommend it?
If you only shoot stills, yes. If you also shoot video and you are serious about it, no. The A7CII offers 10 bit color which is worth twice what they are charging for it...
You should look at the Samyang 75/1.8
I'd like to try one!
Nice, youtube link doesn't work in the info box.
Thanks so much Gerhard, I just fixed the link so it should work now:)
Hi Patrick. I received a Sony A7C (Body Only) as a wedding gift. I need to buy a lens for this camera, I'm also a confused beginner. Ideally, I would like the shortest size, lightweight lens that would work well in low light and take basic family photos. The brand doesn't matter, just looking for something compatible and affordable at the same time. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
I'd look at the Sony FE40mm f/2.5. It's my favorite lens to use on that camera by far. If you have to get a zoom, try the Sony FE28-60mm lens which is slow (light gathering) but is very sharp and convenient. 28-60 link: amzn.to/48geHX7, and 40mm link: amzn.to/3PoJ3hD
in your Sony Alpha 'Whats in my Bag' article you mentioned you used the ZV-E10 and 40mm as an 'oh $h!t' camera. has the a7c replaced that? your thoughts?
Great video! I haven’t bought one yet but I’ve been using an original a7 with a Samyang 24mm prime. I’ve been hearing rumours about a sequel to a7c so I’ll hopefully pick up an a7c used on a budget soon. Out of curiosity does the Sony 24 have a close focus distance? Cheers
FE24mm f/1.4GM: 9.45"
FE24mm f/2.8CP: 7.1"
Awesome thanks!
Sir... What's your thought about FUJIFILM XT30 Mark II for streetphotography and Daily shooting purpose ?
I'm Sony 100%. Love full-frame so most other brands are not in the running for my work.
I just bought an A7C yesterday so time will tell. Have the XT30. It is a super body. Small and lightweight. Try one of the Fuji 23 or 35 f2 crons. The pancake 27mm works well too.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
With DXO Deep Prime noise reduction I barely see any difference between FF and APS-C even at 12800 ISO so the only difference is DoF basically nowadays but to gain advantage you have to go with primes like 50 f1.2, 24 f1.4 which are big and expensive. At base ISO I can't see any difference between FF and APS-C so their quality of lens used will be of more importance. For size advantage I would still go APS-C Fuji or Sony or even micro 4/3. FF has sense with big fat primes to use its real strength.
Apart from that I really like what Sony is doing with miniaturising their FF system so one can go with big primes one day and on other occasion pick smallish prime and hit the streets.
I agree with your assessment of FF vs APS-C with DXO. I think Sony's APS-C line doesn't get the love it deserves. I prefer the smaller, less expensive lenses. Hoping we'll see a new APS-C rangefinder style body in early 2023 with some the recent innovations we're seeing on Sony FF bodies.
The main advantage of FF here is better low light performance/AF out of the box and better choice of fast lenses on a wide end
👏🏻👏🏻
thanks!