Tourist of Light blog by Ross Hamamura: December 2013

Sunday, December 29, 2013

SONY Z , Android update v4.3 on the way to the NEW SONY Z1

SONY Z smartphone.
There is a Android update 4.3

Seems SONY does there own version of the OS

I just loaded it, and my wall paper image seems a bit more saturated closer to what my S3 looked like.
Some of the apps like Time and Sonys Walkman visually look different.
And it might be my imagination but it "might" feel slightly faster.

* LOVE the Camera Shutter button on the Volume Rocker *
* WIFI Scanning, when WIFI is OFF ... good for GPS Maps *
* Sony Superior Auto on camera
* Sony Sweep Panorama
* DayDream SensMe Slideshow 3D theme

* Did NOT see v4.3 Android Camera feature : Circular Menu System or Photo Sphere

Some Android 4.3 details: http://www.trustedreviews.com/android-4-3-jelly-bean_Software_review

After using the Sony Z for a while now.
I am really amazed that this Smartphone does not get any buzz.
And I am hard press to find it anywhere. Well, now it is at T-Mobile.

It's amazingly Sleek and THIN.
Having both sides tempered glass (gorilla glass like).
Has a textured edge that stops it from sliding off smooth table tops, and also makes it easier to hold (more secure feeling).
When you see it sitting on a table top it looks SUPER Thin.

* AND it's WATER PROOF ! That alone is Crazy!

I now feel it is the Best looking Smartphone, Period.
Have been using white smartphones for years, but this Black version has been growing on me.

*** Also have an idea for SONY ... make the Z1 in the Sony Special Edition RED. keeping the black ruberized edges. I would use it. and it would be something Different, that says SONY Z1. (like the 1020 yellow) ... a great DEMO , to get looks.

Was super skeptical of Sony claims of it's long Battery life. (I was a S3 user with two batteries, and often had to change at aprox 5pm if I was out all day)
But, it's true! This thin smartphone really lasts. I have a lipstick battery charger and flashlight I bought on Amazon but have yet to use it.
This has a new fresh battery no doubt , but still impressive.

The new Sony version v4.3 Android update does seem better.

When you actually look at this SONY Z Smartphone closely it is really well Designed. And makes my plastic back S3 now look like a toy.
And I was a hard core Galaxy S user.

Now, having said all that ... it's the "NEW" SONY "Z1" that is the Game Change Smartphone for Sony.
imho, If the new Sony "Z1" is not one of the HOT smartphones for 2014 with great distribution in the USA. Someone, at Sony USA messed up. Seriously. I am just saying.

SONY "Z1" 2013 BEST Photography Android smartphone of the Year ... DPreview
http://connect.dpreview.com/post/5784980086/best-smartphone-cameras-of-2013?page=2

Next Z1 "Sirius" could have 4K video
http://connect.dpreview.com/post/8856858357/sony-flagship-xperia-smartphone-may-shoot-4k-video?utm_campaign=internal-link&utm_source=news-list&utm_medium=text&ref=title_0_1

p.s. The Killer Photography smartphone would be for SONY to drop in the 1" RX100 II Sensor with a Zeiss lens into the Z1 ... Class leading Game Change. The question would be , would it be FAST enough.

Hope this helps someone,

Ross Hamamura
The Tourist of Light
www.RDHphoto.net
SONY ALPHA Camera Ambassador

In addition ‪#‎SuperUserbySony‬
(and have been given SONY products for accepting this additional role)
Please follow me on Instagram: @RDHphoto
Facebook Sony ALPHA - TALK Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SonyAlphaTalk/
SONY Community ID: Hawaii-Geek
http://community.sony.com/t5/Alpha-SLT-DSLR-Cameras/bd-p/alpha-slt-dslr-cameras

Monday, December 23, 2013

Sony ALPHA A7r and A7 TIP # 31: EXPOSURE COMPENSATION DIAL "Priority"

Sony Open 2014 tent, Kazuo Hirai Sony CEO, A7r + 35mm f2.8 ZA FE , f4, 1/160, iso50

Sony ALPHA A7r and A7 TIP # 31: EXPOSURE COMPENSATION DIAL "Priority"

This is my TIP of the DAY Have been posting on a Sony ALPHA - TALK Group created on Facebook.
It "is" open to everyone , Just "JOIN" by entering your FB name to the box with " + ADD people to Group ". https://www.facebook.com/groups/SonyAlphaTalk/

The A7r and RX1/r has a GREAT metal Exposure Compensation (EC) Dial/wheel that is in a "easy to use" position, close to your thumb.
LOVE the "Metal Click" adjustment feel.
So, what I try to do is make this EC wheel be my SINGLE Exposure adjustment control during any "Ambient/Natural" light shoot.

Here is how I do it:

NOTE:
Always have ZERBA "ON" at 100+.
I shoot RAW but you could use DRO if you are a JPG shooter
* Always shoot in Multi Metering mode.
Exp. Comp. Set = Ambient ONLY
*** Remember you are Exposure Compensating by looking at the Exposure of your Subject LIVE.

After using Multi Metering mode ALL THE TIME , you will be able to almost predict what it will do. And how to Compensate for it.   Also in this mode the changes are less dramatic when you move the camera a little.
Remember: we are SEEING any changes LIVE in the EVF/LCD.
The other Metering modes are basically obsolete.
KEEP IT SIMPLE

The GOAL is to SET/Control or semi-set (limit) two(2) of the three exposure elements. Aperture , Shutter , and ISO.
THEN, let the third element FLOAT with a Single Control of the Exposure Compensation Dial/wheel.
What I call "Exposure Compensation Dial Priority"
So, you end up controlling the Exposure with the use of ONE(1) wheel the EC wheel, and Live Viewing the Result in the EVF/LCD.
The Right Exposure is the one that "Looks" right to you, and your vision of the image.

The ZEBRA is the single BEST new feature Sony has included into the NEW A7r and A7 !

It lets you see what is overexposed in Live View (like what Video guys has had for years). Histograms are useless.
What you want to know is "WHERE" and HOW Much of your image is Overexposed.
The "Where" is the most important.
ZEBRA in Live View does that at 100+. and does not get totally in the way on a bright day.
Overexposed "right on your subject" is far more important VS something white far in the background, or a point of light.
I LOVE using ZEBRA for RAW ETTR, with a Lightroom Highlights Pull Back on import. Basically using the DR of the SONY Sensor, to push more of the image information to the Right of the Histogram. (that's another blog)

The basic idea here is you want the very capable modern Computer "IN YOUR A7r / A7 Camera" to help you calculate exposure.

Note: I should mention that in my set up , I change the "Control Wheel" = Not SET
This way I do not accidentally bump the wheel and change my settings OFF of Auto ISO or any fixed ISO number I have set

Because I use Auto ISO so much ... I put ISO on the Fn button Menu ...
* If I was the type to change ISO a lot I would put it on the "Down Button" (of the Wheel).

1) In Aperture Priority:
it's the most natural way to shoot during the Day. When I want to control the DOF via Aperture control.

* Run with Auto ISO (maximum ISO set at iso6400 or whatever you feel comfortable with). * SET your Aperture.
* THEN, the ONLY adjustment you have to do all day is the Exposure Compensation Dial/Wheel. And because you can see all the Changes in Live View thru the EVF or LCD, Exposure is EASY and intuitive.

note: what I DO NOT like about Sony's Auto ISO is it does not let you SET the Minimum Shutter Speed for more control. AND/or do the Nikon thing of using the Reciprocal of the Lens Focal length. with say three(3) steps of adjustments (plus or minus) from a ZERO (0) starting point. Nikon shooters know :) ... The idea I like is showing this as a Multiple , say 1x (of the Focal length reciprocal) ... 1x .. 1.3x ... 1.5x ... 2x .. 3x . with the A7r you will be surprised how many times you might have needed 2x of the FL.

What happens sometimes is without a MINIMUM SHUTTER SETTING , the Shutter speed might drop lower than your handhold ability or subject movement.
This is why this set up is great during bright Day Sun.You just need to watch if you go over 1/8000 or your max shutter speed. Which can happen wide open with fast lens.

2) Manual mode:
This is my second favorite way to run what I call "Exposure Compensation Dial "Priority"
Don't get me wrong. SONY with this A7r and A7 with it's Tri-Nav system of wheels ... Front wheel Aperture , Back wheel Shutter, back Dial (around the OK button) controls the ISO ... is very easy and fast , just on default.

BUT, I want to control the exposure by using "just" one Exposure Compensation Wheel/Dial. :)

On this set up what I want to SET is a FIXED Aperture and Shutter that I know before hand "works" , and control the ISO via the EC wheel.
Advantage here is IF you are in changing light, once you fix your exposure on a subject via the EC wheel ... when the light on it changes slightly your ISO floats/Adjusts with it.

You then get to Focus on capturing the Moment (not on proper exposure)

* SET the Aperture
* SET the Shutter* Run with Auto ISO (maximum ISO set at iso6400)
* THEN, the ONLY adjustment you have to do all night is the Exposure Compensation Dial/Wheel.
And because you can see all the Changes in Live View thru the EVF or LCD, Exposure is EASY and intuitive.
What you are doing with "Exposure Compensation" Wheel/Dial is adjusting the ISO.

3) Shutter Priority:
I use this the least.When I want to control Shutter and ISO
So the Floating variable is Aperture

* SET Shutter
* SET ISO
* THEN, the ONLY adjustment you have to do all Day is the Exposure Compensation Dial/Wheel.
And because you can see all the Changes in Live View thru the EVF or LCD, Exposure is EASY and intuitive.
What you are doing with "Exposure Compensation" Wheel/Dial is adjusting the Aperture.

LINK to "Exposure Triangle" : http://digital-photography-school.com/learning-exposure-in-digital-photography/

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Sony ALPHA A7r and A7 TIPS of the Day Part 2

SantaCON Hawaii 2013 ... A7r + LAEA4 + 16-35 f2.8 ZA SSM , iso2500, f4, 1/20 , 60m flash, 16mm handhold overhead, on a nightclub dance floor.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 30: Update to the Smart Remote Control APP. this is the second update that I have noticed.This APP is pretty good for FREE ! I just wish it did Time Lapse.
There is also a Multiple Exposure APP v1.00 for us$4.99 The interesting one is the sample of combining a shadow of a women and a bed of flowers - Easy Silhouette. Mirror effect . Soft Filter. Manual which looks like a layering of two shots. Texture ... Looks like you need to shoot JPG. Does anyone know if this APP lets you shoot RAW + JPG
Lens Compensation us$9.99

Sony ALPHA TIP # 29: Sony Remote Camera Control
Sony Remote Camera Controlhttp://esupport.sony.com/US/p/model-home.pl?mdl=ILCE7RB&LOC=3#/downloadTabSeclect OSRemote Software should be on the List
Sony Image Data converter Ver.4.2.02 MAChttp://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/imsoft/Mac/idc/us.html

Sony ALPHA TIP # 28: Move the AF point by Center OK + wheel (in shooting mode)A7/r ALL lens (even lens with Adapters like the LAEA4, all the same) .. the A7r lets you move the AF point
Now, do I move my AF point on a street shoot , maybe not.
Advantage 36mp :)
I can shoot them dead center ... or at my set AF point location. Crop latter.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 27: White Balance (WB) adjustments in real timeit is easy to adjust WB in real time with Sony Alpha cameras. IF you have "Live View Display=Setting Effect ON"Should note: I shoot RAW so WB is not a issue. But, when I want to see the JPG settings at night. The easy WB configuration and Live View of the changes in real time is helpful.
SO, if Auto WB or one of the pre-sets is not working for you. Here is what I do:
In White Balance (WB) ... note: I have WB set at the default position on the wheel .. SET > Custom SetupThen put the circle in the center of screen over something white + push center OK.At that point, the A7r should have got you pretty close.IF you want to tweak more , go back into WB , and the A7r will have put (your last setting) into a Custom WB setting for you , RIGHT wheel click on that ... you get a graph that you can mouse around to tweak the WB, AS YOU SEE IT in the LCD !
A lot of Adjustments "Sony Style" via the LCD / EVF Live View is Visual , White Balance is just another.
The Lightroom way is to shoot a Gray Card somewhere in your shot (preferably on your subject) and then take the WB dropper in LR and click on it. Boom, Done! well sometimes. :)I am not a person for trying to get the WB real anyway. lolimho, WB is just another tool to get the image to how you imagined it, not necessarily how it was. :)

Sony ALPHA TIP # 26: Change your "Creative Styles" to BW or Sepia. View in EVF/LCD BW but shoot in RAW to do you BW adjustments latter or RAW+JPG and have the BW JPG also.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 25: A7r/A7 "Creative Styles" are in Lightroom v5.3 for RAW. Camera Calibration > Profile Drop Down Menu. Everything except BW and Sepia.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 24: A7r/A7 is optimized to shoot Aperture Priority (during the day). Because of the great Exposure Compensation wheel (position) and EVF/LCD Live View. You can Adjust very quickly and accurately with One(1) wheel. Fast, Powerful , Intuitive and eliminates the need for Review (chimping).During the Day I will also have Auto ISO on. (want to mention the need for a "Shutter Speed MINIMUM" on the Auto ISO settings ... and you need to get to that setting Fast- Programmable, as well as "Live View Display - ON/OFF)

Sony ALPHA TIP # 23: My A7r Set UP that I love.
Had to mention this Back Button AF set up again. Because it is really working for me.and probably will for ANY Manual Focus shooter !
My fav A7r + LAEA4 Adapter + 50mm f1.4 ZA SSM is set up this way. But, it will work on ANY Lens combo. That is the beauty of this.
What I have found is the A7r/A7 makes Manual Focusing VERY Easy and FAST. and Accurate.

1) Set up the AF/MF button to "AF/MF Control Hold" ... this will be your Back button AF
2) Set C1 button to "Focus Settings" ... this is your Zoom button
3) put the camera to MF mode to Manual Focus "AND" use AF/MF button to autofocus.
You can move the AF point as well. Just set your Center Button to "Standard". A Center button press will activate mode to Move your AF point (IF AF is supported by the Lens/Adapter combo)When the AF locks release the AF/MF button and you immediately see peaking. (IF you have Peaking ON)
At this point you have a tremendous amount of control and flexibility

* Benefit at this point is you have Focus Peaking , and the equivalent of DMF, because you have MF. and AF on the Back Button.

You will find that when you get used to this set up ... you can go thru the steps VERY FAST. and it gives you a lot of flexibility.

Now for those with Manual Focus Lens or non FE lens ... How do you ZOOM Quickly:
4) Double click the c1 this is the ZOOM IN ...
BUT, here you have OPTIONS:* If you "only" Click c1 "once" you get the Focus BOX that you can "Move" anywhere.* Click another time ... you Zoom in* Click another time ... you Zoom in MORE
5) Check the focus, fine tune Focus using the Focus ring if needed, and fire away.
but you can also "tap" the shutter to SEE the Composition in Full View "before" you shutter. (this is a benefit)* I normally have Focus Magnif. Time to NO LIMIT. (because it is the shutter tap, that brings you Out)
This is also great for Tripod / Product stuff , but get used to it and you will do this on a Handhold Very Fast.
Try it for a few shoots ... once you get used to it ... It will Pay Off.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 22: How to turn OFF , the Half Press AF.
Useful when you are using CAF-ON off the Back Button ala Nikon Sports shooting style.Also useful when you are using AF-ON on any mode.

Manual (which I did not read) Page 180 on the A7r PDF
AF w/ shutter (still image)Selects whether to focus automatically when you press the shutter button halfway down. Select [Off] to adjustthe focus and the exposure separately.1. MENU → (Custom Settings) → [ AF w/ shutter] → desired setting.Menu item detailsOn (default setting):The auto focus operates when you press the shutter button halfway down.Off:The auto focus does not operate even if you press the shutter button halfway down.HintWhen [ AF w/ shutter] is set to [Off], you can still use the [AF On] function.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 21: A7r/A7 has Auto ISO that you can use in Manual ModeI feel the A7r/A7 has the BEST (Easy/Fast) Natural Light "Manual" Controls that I have "ever" shot with. With it's great Live View EVF/LCD (flip screen) , and it's Tri-Nav three wheel exposure control (A front wheel, S back wheel, ISO on back dial).But, my Favorite way to shoot in Natural Light (in Manual) is in "AUTO ISO" (with a ISO limits iso6400 , it "should" have a Minimum Shutter setting also, that is it's only weakness). THEN, what I can do is use the BEST Exposure Compensation wheel position I have used on a DSLR (hope it is also used on the next A-Mount PRO). So now I adjust the ISO by 'look" off of the Exposure Comp. Wheel. VERY Fast , and EVEY EASY. During the Day I use Aperture Priority which this Exp. Comp. wheel will be your best friend. (and why I love that it is metal on the A7r, like the RX1/r)

Sony ALPHA TIP # 20: RX1 / RXr Hood fits on the 35mm f2.8That's good news , to me.OK, on this one can I please get someone to confirm?I do not have the 35mm f2.8 ZA FE
I do not like that strange condom looking hood on the 35mm f2.8.The RX1 hood is expensive , but at least it looks Cool. :)

Sunday, December 15, 2013

Kelly Slater, Alana Blanchard, Surf POLL 2013 Winners
Shot the Night event with SONY A7r and A7 only.

on this shot at f2.8, iso1600, A7r+LAEA4+50mm f1.4 ZA SSM Kelly had stepped forward. I just took the shot (the only shot at this location of the two). Those that have been in this situation, know. You just take the Shot. (it's a Gift) Had just stopped Kelly as he was running thru the lobby to get out the door at the end of the event, and I just so happened to be standing next to Alana. Talk about luck.

LOVE the Wheels, Dials, customize-able buttons of the A7r / A7!
Would go so far as to say it is the best set up I have used on any camera. No more button push and wheel roll to change a setting, even Exposure Comp. Button push and wheel roll to change a setting is DEAD to me!
Now I wish it will be the same for a A-Mount PRO Sony with 36mp Non-AA, that is Blazing Fast on AF and CAF in low light.

SONY does need to include ALL of the Menu items on the List of choice to change on the "Function Menu Set".
and the "Custom Key Settings" need more choices. Like a LCD/EVF toggle, CAF-ON (with a AF shutter OFF), and the MUST have "Live View Display - Settings Effect ON/OFF.

On this night in this lighting ... backdrop , Lobby (bad lighting) , dark ballroom the AF had ZERO problems. AF is quick enough for these run and gun type shoots. I would not hesitate to use these cameras "all the time" on these type of shoots. You just need to use the Center AF point if using the LAEA4 and look for contrast. The collar next to the face is a good place (top edge of dress that lines up on the same plane as there face/eyes). And when pressed for time, you can get the AF lock quickly. With practice and experience. Should it be faster in Low light for PRO event work , Sure. Is it fast enough NOW - YES! You just need to know what the camera can and cannot do and work with it (just like any camera)

What I noticed is the A7r+LAEA4+50mm f1.4 ZA because of the SSM (and PDAF on the LAEA4) the 50mm f1.4 ZA SSM seems to move to the AF point FASTER. BUT, it is NOT seeming to use the CDAF on the Sensor of the A7r as Surrounding Dynamic AF "HELPER" AF point to help Track and AF in Low Light.
Is the AF as fast in Low Light / Low Contrast as my D800, NO ... but close enough. Remember 36mp vs 36mp it's the A7r vs D800/e
Image Quality, they are basically even. DXO test and ratings bare this out.
BUT, the A7r has HUGE SIZE/Weight Advantage ! Basically half. Seeing and Reading it on the web does not impact you like the first time you shoot with two cameras on a Black Rapid Double Strap and you FEEL the Difference. It is HUGE! and all the talk and web pictures does not do it justice.
Shooting two Nikon D800/e with 24-70 f2.8 and 70-200mm f2.8 VRII - to a two A7r/A7 FE set up is really hard to imagine with just words and web pics. and then you look at the Images/IQ and it's the same. It's a WOW that any D800/e can apprectiate. They are the one's that would "Get It" First. :)
Then, you ADD up all the Feature Advantages of the EVF (yes, advantages over OVF) ZEBRA (Highlight blinkys live view) and Peaking, and Exposure Live View thru the EVF so you never have to review (chimp). = PRICELESS !
Ok, maybe that was "over the top". :)
Lets ADD Wifi/NFC , camera control via easily downloadable Smart phone APPS (forget remotes/wires, use what you carry with you all the time ... smartphone). and because SONY opened up the API , you will see MORE smartphone APPS that can control the camera. Did I mention it is downloadable to your camera and the list of APPS is viewed (& downloadable) on your camera. The A7r can easily connect to your WIFI Access POINT with "WPS button Push", easy being the key word here.
Is the APPS great yet? NO ... but has the Potential to be. When you use them, you will know what I am talking about. Just clear your mind of how you "used" to do things in the PAST. :)
Does already have a easy Direct UPLOAD to Facebook and Flicker FREE.
It needs a good Instagram with a square crop tool , that lets you fill in with Black or White the blank spaces.
But, now this is all in the reach of the possible , and Quickly. via Software APPS and open API.

A7+55mm f1.8 ZA FE

The A7+55mm f1.8 ZA FE does AF in Low light/Low contrast that the A7r + LAEA4 (and a99) could not.
Just as a note: the D800/e can AF with its PDAF system in as Low light/Low contrast as the A7 + FE , but does this small/short/quick hunt at the end that some reviewers have mentioned. (and I don't like, because it does seem to make it slower on AF vs the D700)
IF , SONY could get the PDAF AF points to work with the CDAF AF points (let you configure how many / how wide the array is) I could envision a FW update that would both speed up AF (and CAF) AND help AF in Lower light.
Just my opinion, it's not the Hardware that is limiting the A7r/A7 from being Faster on AF "maybe" , I think better AF Software can go a long way.
Hmmmm Olympus stock buy by Sony? Sony probably has access to the Olympus tech ... and how ironic that Olympus is now the Best Auto Focusing in Mirrorless! Trust me, old Olympus shooters will get this one LOL.

Used two(2) sb900 Flashes with RadioPoppers JrX Radio Triggers to fire them all "off camera".
Set Flashes All in manual.

Does SONY need RADIO wifi Flashes ... with control like Nikon CLS ? YES ... badly. and a sb910 like flash (no overheat and quick response for event shooters) and a 200mm ZOOM on the Flash. also like the EVEN light feature of the Nikon flash.

I should note that on these shoots everything needs to be uploaded the next day. Everything that night was shot with the SONY A7r + LAEA4 + 50mm f1.4 ZA SSM + JrX Radio Triggers + two(2) sb900 / A7 + 50mm ZA f1.8 ZA. Nothing shot above f2.8, all shot at iso1600 or higher (well a few at iso1000). B&W shots with A7 combo above iso2000+ and f1.8. particularly the B&W in the Ballroom. Post workflow is thru Lightroom v5.3 the newest update with Sony A7r / A7 RAW support and a lot of new support for Sony lens, fyi: ALL the FE lens.
BUT, NO 50mm f1.4 ZA SSM support , or 70-200mm f2.8 G2 strangely.

More pics from the 2013 Surfer POLL Awards: http://www.honolulumagazine.com/Event-Photo-Galleries/December-2013/Surfer-Poll-Awards/

In red on the right is the wife of the late Andy Irons. Pipeline Masters start the next day.
f2.8, iso1000, A7r+LAEA4+50mm f1.4 ZA SSM

On all the shots of the women I took off sharpness. PP Lightroom 4.3 RC from RAW. My first use of LR 5.3 RC , worked well. Right after I install the RC (betat) Adobe releases the final version of v 5.3. I just knew that was going to happen. :)
The light on the wall is mixed. my flashes had to battle other photogs flashes and video LED lights (and there was a mix of those too)

Hope this helps,

Ross Hamamura
The Tourist of Light
www.RDHphoto.net
SONY ALPHA Camera Ambassador
Please follow me on Instagram: @RDHphoto
Facebook Sony ALPHA - TALK Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SonyAlphaTalk/
SONY Community ID: Hawaii-Geek
http://community.sony.com/t5/Alpha-SLT-DSLR-Cameras/bd-p/alpha-slt-dslr-cameras

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Sony Alpha A7r and A7 TIPS of the DAY

John John Florance at the Surfer Poll Awards - Surfer Magazine. Sony A7 + 55mm f1.8 ZA FE , iso2500, f1.8, 1/125

These are a few of my TIPS of the DAY I have been posting on a Sony ALPHA - TALK Group created on Facebook. It "is" open to everyone , Just "JOIN" by entering your FB name to the box with " + ADD people to Group ".
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SonyAlphaTalk/

Thought I would post it also here , because some Sony shooters do not have a FB account.
This is my journey with SONY ...
IF you have any Favorite TIPS you are discovering, that you want to share with other Sony Shooters ... please ADD them to the Comments line.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 19: Power Save mode does not work when Legacy Lens Attached.
Settings. Settings Reset > Initialize
That word did not seem logical when I wanted a FULL Factory Reset.
12/19/13 update: Power Save Mode not working with Leica lenses. Then I set "Remote Ctrl" to "OFF" and Power Save Mode worked as it is supposed to. Just an FYI. George

Sony ALPHA TIP # 18: How to configure your A7r as a Fast Street Shooter
Will work on Autofocus lens or Manual lensI am sure many might argue my choice of a 36mp 4fps (focus locked), CDAF,   A7r. :)
But, there is a lot of features that could benefit a Street Shooter. and think I have a A7r Camera set up that works well ... great with the new 35mm f2.8 ZA FE lens (I hear this lens AF is Fast and it is Sharp) , but the set up works with ANY Manual lens with adapter.
First, my reasons why I think the 36mp A7r makes a great Street Shooter.
1) the 36mp. you can shoot with a loose crop on the street and then crop latter in post.2) LCD that Flips and Tilts, for above and below compositions. also has grids.3) Live View , LCD & EVF   shows you WB and Exposure ... shows you how you will shoot it and saves you having to Chimp.   I would say it's a great Natural Light shooter.4) Exposure Compensation Dial right on the TOP , RIGHT edge easy to adjust and Fast to adjust Exposure ... even in Manual you can set A and S , go with AUTO ISO   and comp. the Exposure off the one Exposure Compensation Dial.   * I just feel Sony needs to have a Minimum Shutter Speed Setting. Small things matter. 5) Focus Peaking at FULL View and Zoomed View6) Zoom View ... both in DMF (where you can Manual Focus After you Auto Focus) , when you turn MF ASST = ON .   and you can also ZOOM even on Manual Focus Lens with Adapters.   and have that feature on a number of locations (button/wheel) on the body.
* Both Focus Peaking and Zoom are great MANUAL FOCUS   helper Tools. That you can configure to make Manual Focus (MF)   Faster and more Accurate. 7) Back Button AF in Manual Focus mode.8) Full Frame in a SMALL camera body Size.   Huge Street Shooting benifit.9) a small Fast , Fast Focusing , all metal Zeiss FE 35mm f2.8 ZA FE lens ... that is very sharp.   Along with being able to shoot with ANY lens ever made with an adapter.10) The A7r has METAL wheels.   Some might never notice the difference between the Metal A7r wheels and the A7 plastic wheels. I might not even be able to tell. But, I want METAL wheels. Mainly the one I will use the most , the Exposure Compensation Wheel.11) WIFI/NFC to your smartphone (any smartphone) and the ability to Upload Directly to Facebook and Flicker ... you just might want to share something Quickly.12) Weather Sealed ... on the street ... it will rain
As I have been shooting with both the A7r and the A7 with the 55mm f1.8 ZA FE and the LAEA4 and the 50mm f1.4 ZA SSM.   also a bit with the 16-35mm f2.8 ZA.
Here is what I found works really well with both FE lens ... and lens on Adapters , even Manual Focus lens.   What I have found is the A7r makes Manual Focusing VERY Easy and FAST. and Accurate.
1) Set up the AF/MF button to "AF/MF Control Hold" ... this will be your Back button AF2) Set C1 button to "Focus Settings"     ... this is your Zoom button
* Also set MF Asst. to ON ... this lets you Zoom in when you move the Focus ring on FE lens in DMF mode.
3) put the camera to MF mode and use AF/MF button to autofocus. You can move the AF point as well. When the AF locks release the AF/MF   button and you immediately see peaking.
A t this point you have a tremendous amount of control and flexability
* Benefit at this point is you have Focus Peaking , and the equivalent of DMF, because you have MF. And you can still move the AF point with a OK center push (if you Center button is config to Standard) And the Half Press is DEAD , this prevents any Half Press from messing up what you have already done.
* you can SEE the Focus Peaking   on your Plane of Focus ... so when you move the camera back and forth you can see the Focus Peaking CHANGE.     (fyi: your focus peaking is still there but might not be strong enough ... imho it is a bit of a bug , if you saw a Bunch of peaking at full screen it should not disappear zoomed in. (or require you to have peaking set a High)
* When you use FE lens , there is something COOL that happens when you turn "MF ASST" - ON. When you turn the Focus Ring it zooms in automatically AND shows you Focus DISTANCE ! ...   I have "Focus Magnif. Time to - NO LIMIT.    That lets me take my time AND I go back to Full View with a simple half shutter tap of the shutter button. (and it does NOT re-AF)
Not just for Street shooters ... just think about   MACRO Shooters on a Slider.
You will find that when you get used to this set up ... you can go thru the steps VERY FAST. and it gives you a lot of flexibility.       All that is missing for me is a CAF option that would require an additional FW change of a   " AF-ON ONLY" option , which would Turn OFF the AF on Half Shutter and allow you to configure CAF and trigger on the back button , for AF and Re-compose.'Now for those with Manual Focus Lens or non FE lens ... How do you ZOOM Quickly:4) Double click the c1 this is the ZOOM IN ...
BUT, here you have OPTIONS:* If you "only" Click c1 "once" you get the Focus BOX that you can move anywhere.* Click another time ... you Zoom in* Click another time ... you Zoom in MORE
5) Check the focus, fine tune Focus using the Focus ring if needed, and fire away.* I normally have Focus Magnif. Time to NO LIMIT.
This is great for Tripod / Product stuff
The Flexible Benefit of this SET UP is ... it will work on basically ANY LENS.   on FE or A-Mount SSM lens mounted on the LAEA4 , or even lens that do not support DMF.
Key Benefit also is it kills the Half press AF that could mess up what you are doing.
SO, Now you want the A7r to Shutter FASTER:
Do what many Street Shooters do ... Manual Mode ... go with f8 (with a 35mm f2.8 ZA FE I might choose f4) and a fast shutter setting ... float the ISO for exposure with AUTO ISO (this is where a Minimum Shutter speed setting would help , because during the day your shutter speeds could float higher) ... and set a MANUAL focus at a DISTANCE that works for you.
Then you use the PEAKING to show you when your Focus is Locked.
But after a while you will know ... "just" by Distance.
I also might hold the shutter at a Half Shutter , when I know a shot is coming up.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 17: A7r "Can" Flash sync at 1/200. A7r+LAEA5+50mm f1.4 ZA SSM today seems to consistently Flash Sync at 1/200 with Manual RadioPopper JrX Radio Triggers + Nikon sb900 flashes (plural). And the response is much faster than Sony's own Wireless flash trigger system, with there own 60m flash.
* UPDATE: Absolute Reliability/Consistency for the A7r is at 1/125 Flash Sync. But, normally with this JrX Radio Triggers + Nikon sb900 flashes combo it's only the first Flash you will have a issue with (it will shade half of the Full Frame).
AND, with a 60m Flash on the A7r Hot Shoe it was ok quick and because of HSS on the Sony Flash you had basically NO Flash Sync limit. Except Flash Power goes down once you cross to HSS. So, fighting the Sun is harder. But at night no problem. The higher shutters at night might be needed to handhold when there is ambient light mix (and you are sloppy on your technique).
Any inconsistency at 1/200 and 1/160 I now feel it's the compatibility of the RadioPopper to the Camera. And the A7+55mm f1.8 ZA FE is only consistent at 1/200 (with the JrX).
I took the same set up (talking Manual RadioPopper JrX Radio Triggers + Nikon sb900 flashes (plural)) and tested on my D800. I could Flash sync at 1/320 , but there was a few shots that it did not. and only saw consistency at 1/250. AND when I flip to the Nikon CLS trigger "on" the D800 body, 1/320 flash sync was consistent.
* So now I am thinking. Sony needs to have a button option / program menu choice for Settings Effect ON/OFF
* Flash Modeling (ala Nikon), menu option, button program ... to wake up the flashes from sleep, and Test your lighting
* Sony A-Mount PRO 36mp should have 1/320 Flash sync
* IN-BODY Flash Control and Radio Wireless Trigger .. Main (on body External Flash) and Four(4) groups ... say for Key, Fill, Kicker, Background ... so with the Hot shoe, 5 separate groups.
* Sony should have a NEW 60m Replacement that is RADIO Wireless, and does not overheat shut down (ala sb910), and has a FAST Response. and a 200mm ZOOM.
* Sony should make/SELL , RADIO Hot Shoe ACC. for the system ... and a REC for studio Strobes
* Sony should make/SELL a Sony Radio Studio STROBE, like the Alien Bee Einstein , that uses more or less standard modifiers (Softboxes, Bdish etc)... WB control and short tail (say for Sports/action) ... and not price it more than the Einstien's.
Make the Lighting totally SONY !    Lead, and make others have to follow. Even in there Acc support. (just make it "easy" for others to ADD-ON)
imho, it's the kind of Aggressive move that would get PROs talking.
Sony is an Electronics Manf. ... all of this should be Possible, if there is will and the drive to push thru technical problems and make it happen.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 16: Sony does need to take the LEAD in Flash and Flash ACC
Ok, so this is really a SONY Tip :) ... with a lot of self interest mixed in.
Why?   partly because they are an Electronics Manufacture. and Because they CAN.
Talking ... Flash, Radio Triggers, Strobes (electronic/global shutter) ... Everything. all in TTL , HSS (might not even need) and Radio Control even when you are in Manual control.
That would have to increase sales. So, it's not just to attract PROs ... which it will.
And yes, Sony needs some Serious "Strobist" input ... that they take Seriously.
Can they do it ?   the crazy thing is ... they are probably in the BEST position to do it!
Do it ALL , and change the market.
Seriously   ... it comes down to Leadership and Desire. AND a Steve Jobs attitude of I do not care if it cannot be done. IT WILL BE.
Think ... what would Steve Jobs do?   if he was a Strobist ... he would NOT have only a 1/125 flash sync and no standard out/ins for   Off camera Radio triggers.
He probably would have put it in the camera body itself the Radio Trigger.
and then all your Small cameras have Off camera flash. and stay small.
Fast Electronic/Global Shutter.   make the camera ALL Electronic , so a Electronic company Manf. would dominate. (wonder who that would be?)
Hope this helps Sony shooters

Sony ALPHA TIP # 15 : PlayMemories A7r APPS ... only FREE one's available now for A7r.
Direct UPLOAD (with Comments) to Facebook and Flickr
You need a FREE Play Memories Camera Apps Account.

Connecting to your WiFi Access point is "easiest" using "WPS push". if you access point has it.
Since the API is now OPEN , I would guess there will be more.
Update on SmartRemote Control, Direct Upload, Flicker ADD-ON.
Interesting there is NO Instagram or SmugMug.
Needs something that can take a Landscape crop you want to preserve and easily get it to a Square and Fill with Black or White the negative space. The put up to Instagram.
There NEEDS to be an "EASY Button". :)
* This could "actually" get Useful.
https://www.playmemoriescameraapps.com/portal/index.php?setname=ILCE-7R
if you look at all APPS , there is APPS for Time Lapse and Motion shot. NEX

Sony ALPHA TIP # 14: Steve Huff felt Novoflex Adapters are the best. For a A7/r M mount combo.But, Metabones Speed Booster Adapters always seem to be mentioned as a buy.http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/737896-REG/Novoflex_NEX_LEM_Adapter_for_Leica_M.html

Sony ALPHA TIP # 13: A7/r "Airplane Mode" ON, might save you a little power use. Little being the operative word.
Shot a night event last night, in a dark event room. Had both A7 + 55mm f1.8 ZA , and A7r + LAEA4 + 50mm f1.4 ZA SSM on at the same time , the whole night. My guess is the A7r combo consumes more power. and that night I shot more with the A7r combo 226 vs 164.   I over shot to get a feel of the combos in low light and using a RadioPopper JrX Radio Trigger to two(2) Nikon sb900. Here is something interesting. I set the A7r in "Airplane Mode" I assume to turn off Wifi. At the end of the night both was virtually the same battery level A7r -2%. It might save power, but not huge. :)   ... not if you are NOT "actually using the Wifi to transfer data".
* I would like to see a EVF "priority" mode ... where you only use EVF. and IF you just "Touch" the Shutter it Wakes UP the EVF (so you can do it before you bring to your eye).   and THEN you NEED a   EVF/LCD "Flip" menu option to put on a selected BUTTON.
When using Flash or in Studio ... Being able to Program ... Live View Display - Setting Effect ON / OFF on ... Function Menu Set OR Custom Key Settings ... becomes really useful.
When using Radio Flashes at night ... having Live View Display - Setting Effect to OFF is helpful. But, when you shoot Natural light , it's best to quickly flip to Setting Effect ON.   Because the EVF LV for Natural Light shooting is BEST, kills the need for a Review of the shot (chimp)

Sony ALPHA TIP # 12: A7/r, ALL Flashes work , Nikon, LumoPro, Metz, Oly ... I just tried it on the flashes I have. (all manual power)
But, The Flash Icon does not show up on the Display screen ... this will display on the LCD, only with Sony Flashes.
Probably showing TTL compatibility.   My guess is, a Off Brand but Sony TTL compatible Flash will show a Flash icon.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 11: Raw processing in LR of Legacy lensAdobe DNG Flat Field pluginhttp://labs.adobe.com/technologies/lightroomplugins/
(No, I have not used it ... no legacy lens, or Adapters)http://labs.adobe.com/technologies/lightroomplugins/
Easier than one might expect - create a lens profile picture and you're up and running. Great results! Color cast and vignetting can be processed together or separately.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 10: Legacy Lens Tests on A7/r:http://www.sonyalpharumors.com/part-one-more-a7-a7r-legacy-lens-test-and-reports-martin-stelbrink-sean-hakan-andrew-yuri/

Sony ALPHA TIP # 9: NO , AF-ON ONLY is not available on the A7/rYou have to work-around with a combo of MF and Back button AF (AF/MF control Hold)
So, I was talking with a Sony Tech today. Who informed me.But, did put the suggestion in for a FW update.
This is the only thing missing from the AF-ON , CAF technique so many Nikon shooters use for Sports.
You CAN ... AF-ON in CAF ... but the Half press still triggers AF ... so a AF-ON (take off you thumb from AF-ON "A7/r AF/MF" on my config) and then Re-compose ... and wait for a shot to happen. the only thing we need is the Half press AF Kill. AF-ON ONLY option in FW.
My other "thing" is to have CAF - ON as an option on any button. what this will allow is to have a Panic CAF button in SAF or DMF. When shooting DMF and a subject starts Running (unexpectedly) , all you would need to do is PUSH one button (my choice the AEL) and in CAF track them. AFTER the shot just take your thumb off the AEL (CAF-ON) and you are back to DMF/SAF. ... Now IF , the CAF-ON "also" has a CAF-ON "ONLY" trigger. it will be the same as the Nikon AF-ON technique , but simple to use.
* IF Sony starts to use PDAF main AF point with CDAF surrounding Helper AF points in ALL modes this would be the best option. Dynamic AF ala Nikon is "only" available in CAF ... then the Nikon CAF method might be best. because you get the benefit of the Helper AF points (that in Nikon is configurable ... more points or Less Helper points)
BUT, on a SONY set up with Dynamic AF ... it's CDAF that will be the Helper AF points - Benefit ? Dead on Accuracy , because the AF is off the Sensor

Sony ALPHA TIP # 8: http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/index.pl   for PDF manual
ILCE-7R/B   to get A7r Manual

Sony ALPHA TIP # 07: TIP: Back Button to AF , and then ZOOM to Manual Focus ... Best set up
* Update
1) Set up the AF/MF button to "AF/MF Control Hold"
2) Set C1 button to "Focus Settings"
3) put the camera to MF mode and use AF/MF button to autofocus. You can move the AF point as well. When the AF locks release the AF/MF button and you immediately see peaking.
4) Doubleclick the c1 ... (you can also click once , and move the Magnify box to where you want it) and you are in magnified mode, focus has not been changed and you do not need to half-hold the shutter.
5) Check the focus, fine tune Focus using the Focus ring if needed, and fire away.
This also works with the LAEA4 ... so my guess is it will work with ANY Adapter and Lens.
Benefit is it kills the Half press AF that could mess up what you are doing. :)

Sony ALPHA TIP # 6: SONY, will NEED to FIX this FLASH DELAY , and get it to a Nikon CLS Standard.
Sony does seem to be working on it. but, I do have to say a99 + 60m wireless I am not a big fan. ON-Camera flash is ok.
Feels like the A7r ... with and without the LAEA4 and 60m Flash does feel Slower than the a99 + 60m . when flashing "on" camera , but that might be just the way the shutter feels on the A7r. Not that bad , but not great either. I like what Steve Huff said. if you change your mindset on the A7r , and think MF , your view changes. Yes. But, honestly on a PRO "A-Mount" 36mp camera in 2014 I am kinda expecting it to feel faster than the D800. Talking A-Mount. Not the "size priority" A7r. SPEED is where the A-Mount PRO needs to change perceptions.
It's important to point out, it's the people that believe in SONY that are saying this.
And I feel it will be addressed by Sony in 2014.
Gary Friedman on the Wireless delay on Dec. 28, 2012
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHrBcT51oE8
Youtube A7/r video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yX9oXHnJZEs

Sony ALPHA TIP # 5: on a A7r + LAEA4 +50mm f1.4 ZA SSM combo
How I work around DMF not AF Asst. (ZOOM) on the Focus ring after an AF
for me, I have my "Focus Magnifier" on the AF/MF Button. am used to holding the half-press and AF/MF button at the same time. (Nikon)
in DMF after the half press , I can simply push the AF/MF button twice to get my ZOOM IN. Then Manual Focus ... and my Shutter is half way there to a Shutter.
I can do it ok ... but not my Fav.
What I feel Sony should do .. is Find a way to make AF Asst. work on SSM lens .. in A-Mount and E-Mount + LAEA4.
and also have a Half Shutter AF OFF menu selection
also not a fan of how the Peaking level in LOW disappears when you ZOOM in to Manual Focus. It's there, but so low that you need a High setting to see it.
There needs to be at least a Menu config to set a Higher Level of Peaking when you ZOOM in.
* UPDATE: I have evolved on my set up. If you look at my Street Shooter Set UP TIP you will see my current set up that is more Flexable.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 4: if you are shooting RAW 14-bit. A7r, Set Zebra at 100+ , so you can see "WHERE" your Highlights are blowing out. I normally like to blow out about 1/3 stop, as long as it is not on my subjects Face. ... Then in Lightroom, I "ON IMPORT" set Highlights (recovery) to -30. basically ETTR. Helps expose the left of the Histogram more for less noise and better detail and color there. and the DR can easily recover over 1/3 of a stop on the Highlights. note: there is "more" color information on the Right side of the Histogram vs the Left.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 3: Your LAEA4 + A7r + A-Mount lens was working. You got Peaking at Low. after someone plays with your set up. all of a sudden you can see in the Peaking your AF is slightly OFF (even in the Review at 100%). Check your mounts, (wipe with clean micro fiber cloth if needed). IF a Full Factory Reset , on menu "Initialize" does not immediately work, SET the Camera aside with the Battery OUT over night. The next day, the AF might come back again. It worked for me.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 2: To FULLY get back to the Factory Settings. Settings Reset > Initialize
That word did not seem logical when I wanted a FULL Factory Reset.

Sony ALPHA TIP # 1: On A7/r , when using FE lens , in Flexible Spot , when you move your AF point ... you can get it back to Center by pressing the Trash Can button.

Tourist of Light
blog by Ross Hamamura

Sunday, December 29, 2013

SONY Z , Android update v4.3 on the way to the NEW SONY Z1

Monday, December 23, 2013

Sony ALPHA A7r and A7 TIP # 31: EXPOSURE COMPENSATION DIAL "Priority"

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Sony ALPHA A7r and A7 TIPS of the Day Part 2

Sunday, December 15, 2013

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Sony Alpha A7r and A7 TIPS of the DAY

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