The Sony a7C camera distinguishes itself from the rest of the mirrorless camera market by packing a full frame sensor into a more compact body sized similar to the company's popular a6600 model.
In addition to the larger sensor, the a7C adds over 60% more auto-focus points than the a6600, a fully articulating LCD screen, and a wider ISO range. Neither camera features a built-in flash so add-on circuitry is needed to take advantage of camera-controlled TTL strobe exposure.
1/160 • f/9 • ISO 100 • EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
Sony's Full Frame Line-Up
Compared to Sony's larger full frame cameras, the a7C features the same hybrid autofocus system with Eye AF for both humans and animals. Autofocus is excellent in video modes. 4K/30p video does have a 1.2x crop factor but you can shoot full HD using the camera's full sensor.
1/160 • f/10 • ISO 100 • EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
Pros:
- Housing buoyancy and trim is excellent when combined with a Compact 8" Dome Port and dual strobes.
- Battery life is excellent compared to less expensive Sony mirrorless camera bodies.
- Less expensive than other Sony full frame mirrorless cameras.
- Supports TTL strobe exposure modes with rear curtain sync and in-camera exposure compensation when using the DL2 DS Link TTL Converter and compatible strobes.
1/125 • f/10 • ISO 100 • EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
Cons:
- Autofocus with the Canon 8-15mm Fisheye is slow compared to Canon full frame mirrorless cameras.
- The electronic viewfinder (EVF) is small compared to the Sony a7R IV and a7S III, though composing with the rear LCD is useful and provides better battery life.
1/160 • f/10 • ISO 100 • EF8-15 f/4L Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
1/160 • f/7.1 • ISO 100 • EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
Who's it for?
The combination of a full frame sensor, compact camera body, and excellent battery life is compelling. Digital Photography Review suggests this camera for travelers looking for superior image quality:
It builds on well-known technology and includes an AF system that's as easy to use as it is powerful. Add in competent 4K video and an impressively long-lasting battery and it becomes a package that can take excellent photos pretty much regardless of what you encounter on your travels.
The 28-60mm F4-5.6 kit lens is conveniently small but isn't especially bright and has a rather limited range. Adding better lenses makes the package rather less portable.
Underwater we have several things working against us that necessitate things like high-quality lenses and external lighting to capture the colors and vibrancy we're used to seeing on land. Once you add these things on, you're not saving that much luggage space compared to a Sony a7R III or IV, Sony a7S III, Canon EOS R5, or Nikon Z7.
If you want a full frame system that doesn't break the bank, then the a7C is really enjoyable to shoot and ticks most of the boxes. If you're looking for the best out there and money isn't a factor, we think the EOS R5 is a better upgrade choice--particularly if you already own Canon EF lenses.
1/200 • f/8 • ISO 80 • EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
1/125 • f/8 • ISO 80 • EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
1/160 • f/10 • ISO 100 • EF8-15mm Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
1/160 • f/8 • ISO 100 • EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
1/160 • f/10 • ISO 100 • EF8-15mm Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
1/160 • f/10 • ISO 100 • EF8-15mm Fisheye USM © 2021 John Brigham
John Brigham is the Vice President & head of product development at Ikelite. He was born with a flair for design and an entrepreneurial spirit as son of Ikelite founder Ike Brigham. He worked his way up in the business and is a natural fit in the R&D side of things. John dives the equipment as much as possible to test product and put himself in the "fins" of the user. You may also find him on the other end of an email or phone call when you reach out for product advice and support. When he's not underwater he's flying drones, setting off rockets, training his German Shepherd "T2", and spending time with his family.
Additional Reading
DL2 DS Link Sony TTL Converter Underwater Photos
Sony a7S III Underwater Video Sneak Peek
Sony Alpha a7R IV Underwater Photos
Dive Diversions: On Safari in Uganda with the Sony Alpha A7R III
A Celebration of Life with the Sony Alpha A7S II
First Look Sony Alpha a7R IV Underwater Housing
