Should You Get the Sony a7iv in 2024?
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Are you eyeing the Sony a7IV, wondering if it's still worth picking up in 2024? Well, spoiler alert—I've been putting this camera through its paces, and my answer is a resounding YES! But wait, before you dash off, there's more to this story.
The Sony a7IV hit the shelves back in October 2021, and let me tell you, snagging one back then was no easy feat due to shortages and delays. Fast forward two years, and it's been my trusty sidekick for both photography and videography.
Now, before you rush to click "Add to Cart," let's dive into the nitty-gritty. At the time of filming, a contender emerged in the form of the Sony a7C Mark I, offering a slightly lower price point at around $2,100 compared to the a7IV's $2,500 price tag. But here's why I'm still rooting for the a7IV, even in the face of the new kid on the block.
One of the initial hiccups with the a7IV was overheating. Yep, it was a hot topic (pun intended). However, after tweaking settings, my personal experience with overheating has been minimal, even in extreme climates like Maui's humidity or Dubai's desert heat. Early production batches faced more significant issues, but it seems those kinks have been ironed out.
What's not to love about this camera? Its versatility as a hybrid shooter is top-notch. Sporting a 33-megapixel sensor, it delivers sharp, high-quality images that satisfy most use cases. Plus, shooting video in 4K up to 60fps with 10-bit 422 color allows for fantastic color grading flexibility.
The a7IV's LCD and viewfinder game? Strong! Though not sporting the fancy 4D motion screen like its cousin, the a7R5, it holds its own with a fully articulating screen that's a joy to use.
Button enthusiasts, rejoice! The a7IV boasts an abundance of physical buttons, customizable for speedy access to frequently used features—a definite win for efficiency.
Dual SD card slots and support for CF Express type A cards add to its appeal, along with a full-size HDMI port, making connectivity a breeze.
But hey, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The camera's 4K 60fps mode introduces a crop, which might irk wide-angle enthusiasts. Plus, the absence of 4K 120fps and the not-so-great rolling shutter might be deal-breakers for some.
And let's talk about the Sony a7C Mark I, the fresh-faced competitor. While it flaunts new AI features and comes in a bit cheaper, the a7IV still holds its ground with its established performance and features.
Ultimately, your decision should align with your shooting needs. Whether it's the type of content you create or your preferred shooting style, make sure your gear fits your workflow like a glove.
So, should you consider the Sony a7IV today? Absolutely! Just remember, it's all about finding the right tool for your craft.
That's a wrap for today, folks! If you found this helpful, hit the like button and consider subscribing for more content from me. And hey, check out these videos for more insights into Sony cameras. Until next time, happy shooting! 📸✨