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Showing 1 of 39 conversations about:
pantag
102
Feb 15, 2017
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Consider these things before you buy this:
- Grey market, meaning no US warranty or even paid service availability. Sony will not touch this even if you are willing to pay. - A new A7R III is in the works. Not much info on that yet. But it is rumored. - If you have not invested in Sony lenses, reconsider this purchase and whether you really want to go Sony. There are two other companies out there that make better products (build them themselves, especially lenses, unlike Sony), have awesome support (unlike Sony) and most likely you will be more satisfied with. The secret is out... Nikon and Fujifilm. Fujifilm right now with their X-series cameras/lenses are rocking the camera world. If you have not checked them out yet, you should!! - Do you really want a camera from a manufacturer that builds TVs, DVD players, phones and other consumer crap instead of just being focused on optics...? - G-master (gangster) lenses are huge due to their required flange (Sony really messed up with their FF mount here on mirrorless bodies, NOT a lightweight setup!! lol). G-master lenses are overpriced.
Feb 15, 2017
brentbeme
6
Feb 15, 2017
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pantagNailed it on the grey market bit, Sony won't do any service on it even if it is under warranty. It's true that the lenses are heavy, but some of them are pretty sharp (Zeiss series).
" Do you really want a camera from a manufacturer that builds TVs, DVD players, phones and other consumer crap ..." Nikon has been using Sony sensors in their cameras for years. The D800 series and the D7000 series both use Sony sensors.
Feb 15, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 15, 2017
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brentbemeMost of the companies use Sony sensors. That means nothing, however. Each company can heavily customize the sensor such as the final output can be totally different if you compare for example a Fuji X-T2 X-Trans III (sony sensor) to a A6500. And the output IS different. Image quality is not JUST the sensor! It is the customizations on it, AD converters, SNR (signal to noise ration) and of course, lenses. They are vastly different from manufacturer to manufacturer and also, many times from product to product of the same company. D600 and D750 have the same sensor.. However, the output and dynamic range difference between the two is huge (D750 wins)!
Feb 15, 2017
WanderingJohnny
36
Feb 15, 2017
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pantagWhile I'll admit that both Nikon and Fuji make great products, Sony is the company that's truly rocking the camera world. It's precisely because they're not primarily a camera company that has led them to these fresh and industry changing (as well as leading) cameras.
Feb 15, 2017
enero
605
Feb 15, 2017
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pantagHave you ever used a Sony camera or lens, pantag? Or even read a review about them in the past few years for that matter? I am by no means a Sony fanboy, far from it. It took me some time to accept Sony as legitimate camera maker as well. But it is straight up ignorant at this point to ask your 4th question. I think it is safe to say that Sony is currently the best manufacturer of consumer and prosumer camera equipment (including lenses). I will gladly flame this Discussion fighting you on the all the point that you need to be educated on, but honestly its all out there. Google it before you poo-poo what you obviously know nothing about. Sorry if I sound harsh, but your comment was way to (fanboy)dismissive and misguided to ignore.
Feb 15, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 15, 2017
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eneroI have used Sony FF cameras and that was a huge mistake for many different reasons. Where do you feel that I need to be educated on? Please comment and I will be glad to go over the details. You also call me fanboy? Where did you get that? On my previous comments I mentioned two different manufacturers. How does this make me a fanboy? Please explain in detail which points I need to be educated on since your mastermind made the judgement that no other human-being can have knowledge on photography and its equipment.
Have you ever tried to service a Sony camera? Do you know how long it takes? Do you know that Sony does not service their "pro" (lol) cameras but they send them to 3rd party vendors which are totally clueless themselves? A "pro" camera with just one SD card? Really? Do you know that Sony does not make or support their own lenses? Don't know if you do this professionally or you are just a classic Fony fanboy (for sure you show signs of it!) that you use your A7 to take pictures of your dog and pillows but A7x series is not perfect. I have owned and used gear from all 4 major manufacturers (Nikon, Canon, Fuji and Fony) and by far..FAR, Sony was the worst experience from a usability, experience, support and financial perspective.
So, don't make stupid "ass"umptions without knowing who the other person and experience is.
Feb 15, 2017
enero
605
Feb 15, 2017
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pantagMan, I knew I was going to open a can of (annoying-ass) worms with my comment, but I said F-it. Ok, lets do this. So let us first address that you obviously know how to google since the first thing you did was google me, Bravo, creepster! I will concede to your knowledge of interneting. 2nd, my point is that you are crapping on a company that you obviously have personal issues with. Your points, while totally valid to you, have little merit in a general discussion about proven products. The way I see it, its very closed minded to just say (paraphrasing) “Oh, I personally don’t like them, so that makes them terrible at what they do.” Who cares what they do and don’t choose to handle on their own on the backend. All companies use 3rd parties to deal with repairs and manufacturing. All companies use their own proprietary software. Sony is just like all the rest. The difference is, at the moment, they’re doing more right than wrong. Good solid equipment, listening to their customers (to a point) and updating their firmware (fairly) regularly to reflect the needs of the user. Following through with their line of cameras by backing them up with a very (undeniably) impressive and ever growing line of lenses. Yes, for the most part massive and way too expensive (especially from the point of view of an SLR user), but they show promise with more affordable ones as well. Lets not forget that Canon also makes other consumer and professional products other than camera related equipment. But I don’t hear this come up when people out there are massaging their preverbal testies. And then theres Nikon, who’s soul purpose in life is to make cameras and lens related products. Not doing to great these days are they? (Full disclosure, Im a life long Nikon users, but I know a dead horse when I see one). Point is, nitpicking about trivial things might win you a screaming contest, but it’s not going to change the facts. Sony is doing more than ok. Their picture quality is pretty damned impressive. Their RAW files are incredible. Everyone uses their sensors! Balking about this fact as being inconsequential is amateur BS. Its pretty much admitting that you spent a fortune on a camera only to shoot jpgs. They do good Squishy. Its not made for everyone, especially wedding or sports photographers, but thats fine. Its ok that they exist and are offering something for a niche market. You don’t have to like it if its not for you. And good god, if I hear another turd dropping “truth” about how 2x SD slots = Pro. Im gonna rip my D off! The definition of Pro isn’t: Holding-the-button-down-until-your-sensor-overheats-and-your-camera’s-processor-has-a-heart-attck. There are all kinds of “pro” photographers in this amazing world of ours! If (the proverbial) you actually NEED more than one SD slot, than a little mirrorless body obviously isn’t the right choice for you. It doesn’t mean that its not “pro”. And for the record, I didn’t call this camera “pro”. Though to me, anything that can give me print quality results (for and after) editing is pro enough for me…while Im taking pictures of my wife scratching my dog’s neck (check it! I too can internetz :P)
Full disclosure for the trolls that didn’t google me - I’m not a Sony fanboy, or as this dude called it, “Fony fanboy” (I bet he also tries to incorporate the term “nifty-fifty” into everyday conversation, and reads PetalPixel for their "articles") But I did have a Sony A7, which I begrudgingly purchased and quickly fell in love with. Not for its branding, but for its versatility (i.e. being able to easily use pretty much any mount lens on it that I wanted to, and getting decent to amazing results). Tho, I will admit that I am a Full-Frame whore. Digitally speaking, I will (happily) use anything that has a FF sensor and will let me attach my lenses to it. Which at the moment, Sony (Fony) being the only option. Oh well…I guess I’m just an awful person… Ok, thats all I have to say. Have a nice day and stuff.
Feb 15, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 15, 2017
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eneroWhy do you think that I would google you? I did not, not sure why you think that. I do not disagree with some of the points you make. The Sony quality is fine. The "pro" term, I guess is open for discussion...if you shoot my wedding and you loose all my photos due to a bad SD card, I will sue you and I will cut your D off! So, that would not make you look very "pro".
Again, you make "ass"umptions about me which are not accurate. Each one of us have their personal experiences to talk about. You do the same! So, quit the crap that i shoot jpg and not Raw. I have worked with Sony's huge ass Raw uncompressed files that slow any PC down to a crawl, no matter its specs. I know how they look like. My comment on whether someone should jump into Sony was if they don't already have an existing line of lenses for the system. When you get into a platform, you buy it for the lenses not the bodies.
About Nikon...if you think that Nikon is going down, you are mistaken! The company is restructuring and actually they lost money not from their photo business but from the Lithography section. Maybe you need to look up Sony and see who is loosing more money on the photo department. Then you can compare!
After all, and we agree on this, you just shoot what looks good to your eyes (and clients). You can produce art from a cheap camera, so price does not necessarily means quality. Also, NOT all companies use 3rd parties for repairs; Sony does. And their service is preeeety bad! I hope you never have to experience it.
I don't know why we are doing this in a Massdrop forum... my intention was to make people aware of some points about Sony. Everyone who is going to spend $2.5K is intelligent enough to have their own judgement and act accordingly.
Moral of the story.... shoot what makes you happy. Just be aware of the facts and faults of each system. Cheers!
Feb 15, 2017
enero
605
Feb 15, 2017
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pantagYou are right, I took it too far and I apologize for that. Your comment was pretty much the first thing I saw on my computer today and it made for a bad start of the day.
To each their own. But I will say that the dismissive tone was something that really turned my stomach, and I had to speak my peace.
Feb 15, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 15, 2017
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eneroNo issues. My point was not to be dismissive, just make people aware of facts. I did the same on Fujifilm posts in the past, if you check my posts. And i love fuji! As long as evryone shares their own honest opinions about their system experiences, the photography world will be in a better position. Maybe even help create some good competition between camera manufacturers. Afterall, no system is perfect. You pick one (or two) that fits your needs. For me, currently is Nikon and Fuji. Happy snapshots!
Feb 15, 2017
friedduck
0
Feb 16, 2017
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pantagSony's making the sensors that everyone else is using (someone already pointed out Nikon, but also Apple, Samsung & others.) Too, their mirrorless rigs are without peer right now. Canon & Nikon are the two biggest pro camera makers and haven't been able to keep pace. Hell even the A6x00 series are amazing if you've ever had a chance to shoot with one of them.
Grey market is definitely a concern though. You get no warranty. It's not accurate to say 'Sony won't touch it.' They just won't honor any warranty.
Feb 16, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 16, 2017
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friedduckHi there. See my comment above (number 3 from the top) regarding the Sony sensors. I have used the Sony A6xxx series and I just don't like them. Ergonomics are not there and there is no enjoyment for me. I do use the Fuji X-T2 which to me, is the best mirrorless camera at the moment, combined with their XF line of lenses. Awesome, awesome results!
Feb 16, 2017
friedduck
0
Feb 16, 2017
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pantagGlad to hear they're doing well (Fuji.) I haven't used one in a long time honestly, and right now I'm only looking at full-frame sensors. I partially agree with the Sony ergos. Nikon is my favorite in that regard.
Feb 16, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 16, 2017
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friedduckYou will be surprised how close full frame and APS-C sensors are right now! Still FF has a small advantage but man are they close!!
Feb 16, 2017
MisterGoober
3
Feb 16, 2017
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pantagHow is Nikon rocking anything? Agree 100% about Fuji, but other than the D500 which users have been waiting years to be released, Nikon has done nothing innovative whatsoever. D5600 just got released, and it just like the D5500, D5300, etc. Nikon has revamped some of their lenses but it's been evolutionary rather than revolutionary. DL line of cameras just got canceled, yet they continue to sell the doomed Nikon 1 and Coolpix cameras.
If you recall, Sony just isn't an electronics builder, they purchased Konica-Minolta. Sony has been one of the most innovative in the camera space lately. Original RX100, RX1, A7R, A7ii FF w/in-body stabilization. They're pushing the envelope while Canikon give us as little as possible.
Feb 16, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 16, 2017
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MisterGooberSure, Nikon needs to innovate. Canon and Nikon are somewhat static with their Dslr lineup. I think Canon even worse with their marginally better Mark4 after so many years. Nikon will introduce this year cameras with RGBW sensors, so there is hope there. BUT, you have to give it to Nikon for their lenses. Last year they came out with some awesome glass!! I think Fuji schools everyone right now how to do it right. They are doing many things right.
Feb 16, 2017
blahhh
130
Feb 16, 2017
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pantagThe point of wariness over a grey market item is valid. The point that there may be a replacement model around the corner is valid (with Sony, sometimes the refresh cycles are quite short - eg, a6300 to a6500). Fuji and Nikon build great cameras...
But...
Why are you even mentioning Fujifilm X seires? This drop isn't for the Sony A6500, which would be a closer competitor. The the XT-2, for instance, is a fantastic mirrorless camera - but here's another secret - Fuji doesn't make a mirrorless full frame camera, and neither does Nikon. The D750 is a nice full frame DLSR in a similar price bracket, but well, it's a DLSR. Yes, some of the Sony lenses are large and negates a lot of the size differences compared to something like the D750. But here's the thing. You have the option of compact Sony and aftermarket manual primes (eg, Rokinon) that lets you get away with a smaller package. And while Nikon and Fuji are great for still shooting, the Sony A7 and a6xxx series cameras probably still offer the best bang for the buck for a single body that does both 4k video and stills reasonably well.
Who cares whether the Sony brand includes other consumer electronics? What does this have to do with the merits of this particular camera?
Feb 16, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 16, 2017
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blahhhWell, the new Fuji X-T2 can do 4K at 100Mbps at 4:2:0 (4:2:2 with external HDMI recording) and has F-log. The video looks pretty good, the same with the still shots. The system is cheaper at $1,600 and it combines both, great stills and video. Nowadays, APS-C sensors are much much closer to FF sensors; it is not how it used to be. Yes, FF still has a small advantage on low light and dynamic range but not by much. We are to the point that people do compare advanced APS-C to FF cameras and many professionals and advanced amateurs do switch. Also, if you are serious about 4K video, A6xxx is not for you and possibly the A7x series due to overheating issues. A6500 did NOT address this issue. If someone wants the best video for the money, for me, there is only one option: Panasonic GH4/GH5. However, I would not use the Panys for advanced still imaging since a micro 4/3rds do have a lot less dynamic range and noise! Again, it is all good, as long as you consider ALL your options and have an open mind. No one should be loyal to any company without doing comparisons to check what the competition offers.
Feb 16, 2017
blahhh
130
Feb 16, 2017
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pantagThe a6500 did address the overheating issue somewhat. Just not completely. It was more of a software adjustment to allow the camera to overheat more before auto shut off. I don't think anyone is certain whether Sony made any hardware changes to address the overheating issue. I haven't had overheating issues with my a6500 yet, but then I don't push it to the 30 min max recording time...
The Sony a6500 can also do 4k at 100Mbps, with the same color space and also has its on log-gamma color curve modes, which you don't need to use HDMI out to use, as with the Fuji. The Sony also has better video functions vs the Fuji, in my opinion - but this is getting to be a minor point.
Probably the biggest benefit of the A6500 over the X-T2 is IBIS. I have a set of 3rd party E-mount prime lenses that I use with the a6500, and thanks to IBIS, they have at least some stabilization.
And then, the a6500 is cheaper than the X-T2. If you can afford the X-T2 and some X series lenses, then it's an unbeatable compact system for stills. Otherwise, due to IBIS and 3rd party lenses, an a6500 can provide a more affordable path to very similar results.
Yes. The GH5 is probably the leader for video from a stills form factor camera. However, something like the Sony a6500 or A7 series is still a serious contender for a stills/video all-rounder.

Feb 16, 2017
pantag
102
Feb 16, 2017
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blahhhI do not disagree. All accurate points.
Feb 16, 2017
Zilvent
81
Mar 17, 2017
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pantagWhen I returned back to photography after years of hiatus, I used my father's A6000 for a couple months. Growing up through high school and when I worked for Jowdy's Photography (Dallas Cowboys), I used Nikon. To be truthful, I greatly enjoyed using Sony. I used it to take cosplay shots at A-Kon 2016 and some modelling portraits. Since I generally use primes for everything I do, which I eventually want to get the Sigma Art 18-35, I found the combo to be quite light while performing admirably. Luckily, I have never needed to contact Sony support, but I have heard so many stories about them. Currently, I use the D7200 and prefer it over any A6xxx line. I am strictly a photographer, so I have no need for the video performance Sony or other companies have. Though, I would buy Fuji if I was in the market for a mirrorless camera. I love what they have been doing as of recently and they design looks every bit as cool as their performance, based by what I have seen. I know everyone likes lighter cameras but I enjoy the heavier weight, which is why I have the D7200. Back in high school, we had the 70-200mm F2.8 (White Version) and I used that when I took sport shots. I actually was more than happy to use it and wanted it. I find my hand becomes dead steady, or at least more steady, as weight increases. But that's besides the point. What I am trying to say is that, no matter where you go, your camera choice is going to be a good one. Just pick one within your budget and roll with it. Though, I agree with your points and understanding the disadvantages and advantages is very important. Though, lens selection and quality is personally more important to me. APS-C sensors are crazy good now. The gap is much smaller and now I prefer the cropped sensors over their full frame brothers. Overall, again, its all about the photographer. Good equipment is only half the battle. I have seen friends of friends who have $3000+ systems and they are just "eh". And I have seen people with $500-600 take wonderful photos. I'm just curious, is Fuji as good as everyone says? I really like the X-T2 in terms of design and specs but didn't know much real world use and experience since I don't rent bodies. Sometimes you find quirks and disadvantages from actually owning and using something over a long period of time.
Mar 17, 2017
pantag
102
Mar 17, 2017
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ZilventI own both Fuji X-T2 and Nikon D750. The Fuji is sharper (lacks anti-aliasing filter), has awesome colors, dynamic range is crazy, JPEGs look great and it is a lot more lightweight. I will be keeping both systems for now as the shooting experience is different. But, yeah, the X-T2 is as good as they say it is! Such a joy to shoot with. I particularly enjoy it even more with the boost grip as it fits better in my hands. APS-C sensors came a long way and they rival full frame bodies.
Mar 17, 2017
Zilvent
81
Mar 17, 2017
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pantagI thought the D750 lacks an AA filter? I know for a fact the D7200 does. Good to know as, currently, the X-T2 is the only mirrorless that has piqued my interest in both outside design and performance. I most likely would have it had it been priced very close to the D7200. As I know its a problem, kind of, for mirrorless, how is the battery life and shot per charge on the X-T2? I would love to test out the X-T2 and at least get a feel for it. Though, its gonna be really hard for any single company to pull me away from Nikon since I generally like them over many others. How are the handling and feeling of the X-T2? Since the D750 feels very similar to the D7200, I wanted your take on how it feels in the hand and while operating it.
Mar 17, 2017
pantag
102
Mar 17, 2017
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ZilventBoth cameras feel great! The advantage goes to the X-T2, when you have the booster grip installed (personal preference of course). It is such a powerful camera in such a small body. Also, the X-line of lenses are all excellent. I mean, there is no bad Fuji lens. Just a couple (18 f/2 and 14mm) not that great compared to the rest. But are all great. Also, the VR is far better than Nikon's. You should give the X-T2 a try. If I had to keep one between the D750 and X-T2, it would probably be the Fuji. Ergonomics are awesome and it brings back fun in shooting.
Mar 17, 2017
Zilvent
81
Mar 17, 2017
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pantagIf I was running a mirrorless camera, I most likely would spend the money on the booster grip. I noticed the improvements with the grip attached. Everyone I have seen has been raving about Fuji lenses. Even if they aren't excellent for some, there isn't a single bad one. Can't say the same about Nikon as I know a few not so decent ones. Very interesting. This makes me want to really go out and test one out now. Looks like I have to find a store to demo this now lol
Mar 17, 2017
moronko
0
Apr 23, 2017
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pantagthere is not R7iii R9 is coming as i belive :D
Apr 23, 2017
bbisset
48
Jul 19, 2017
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pantagIf you don't like Sony, please go to the DPReview and show your CaNikon colors there. You obviously know a wee bit about cameras, but clearly know sh!t about Sony gear. I have been using Alphas since they were first shipped and I can tell you and anyone else that the A7Rii is one of the finest cameras made. Full stop. Your, " - Do you really want a camera from a manufacturer that builds TVs, DVD players, phones and other consumer crap instead of just being focused on optics...? " ...told me enough about you to know that you're definitely not a Sony/Zeiss user and probably not Nikon either as ALL their top cameras have Sony sensors.
That leaves Canon. #thxforstoppingby
Jul 19, 2017
pantag
102
Jul 19, 2017
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bbissetHaha, ok. Shoot whatever you enjoy. These arguments get us nowhere. I've been to Sony, Nikon and Fuji camps and i have my own experiences and opinions about each. It just happens that Sony was the worst experience for me. Happy shooting!
Jul 19, 2017
bbisset
48
Jul 19, 2017
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pantagFair enough. And my apologies... some forums (not this one) have trolls that just beat up on anything not Nikon or Canon. Best to you.
Jul 19, 2017
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