This year, our technical editor tried a camera that fulfilled his need for speed, enjoyed a simplified retro CSC, and found lenses to love
Sony Alpha 9
Without doubt, the most impressive camera I’ve had the privilege of using this year – the Sony Alpha 9 – is a technological marvel. Not so long ago, we thought mirrorless cameras would never match DSLRs for sports and action photography, but how wrong we were. The Alpha 9’s groundbreaking 24MP full frame stacked-CMOS sensor design allows silent shooting at 20fps with no viewfinder blackout, while maintaining focus on moving subjects, no matter where they are in the frame. With most cameras, shooting fast-moving action is a serious challenge; the Alpha 9 makes it so easy it feels like cheating. Canon and Nikon should be really worried, as this undoubtedly represents where camera technology is going, and they are a long way behind Sony right now.
I’ve spent an unusual amount of time with the Alpha 9. Normally, I get a camera for a couple of weeks to review, after which it goes back to the manufacturer and is quickly forgotten as I switch my attention to the next shiny toy. But I had an extra couple of weeks with the A9 while testing Sony’s superb FE 100400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens, followed by a week with it in Japan on a press trip with Sony UK. Each time I’ve picked it up and got to know it again, I’ve been impressed by its sheer capability and the way it can shoot things other cameras can’t.
Taking flight
Denne historien er fra December 23 - 30,2017-utgaven av Amateur Photographer.
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Denne historien er fra December 23 - 30,2017-utgaven av Amateur Photographer.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Calling The Shots: A Queer History of Photography
Offering an unprecedented view of photographic history through a queer lens, this is a wonderful and powerful book, says
Large-aperture standard zoom, too
SONY has also revealed a new premium standard zoom, the FE 28-70mm F2 GM.
Super-fast, high-res Sony Alpha Ai II
SONY has announced its new professional full-frame flagship camera, the Alpha A1 II.
39 awesome accessories
Our round-up of the best accessories we've used and reviewed this year, along with some old favourites. There's something here for every budget, starting from just £7, including tripods, bags, filters and much more
Such a thing as society
This autumn sees the launch of a major new book and exhibition devoted to examining the multiplicities of photography during 1980s Britain. Peter Dench finds out more
Join Club
The sociable Canvey Island Photographic Club is keen to grow its in-person meet ups
Capturing flight
Winners and finalists of Bird Photographer of the Year share their tips for success with Hollie Latham Hucker
140 years of change
AP has become the world’s oldest surviving consumer photo magazine because we have moved with the times, says Nigel Atherton
Preserving history in platinum
A deep dive into the meticulous art of platinum printing, and the collaboration between the Royal Geographical Society and Salto Ulbeek. Mike Crawford explores how they brought historical photographs to life with enduring beauty and precision
Life in the past lane
What was life like for an amateur photographer in 1884? John Wade takes a trip back in time
