The α mission
The α mission is to give creators the power to realise their dreams. The α1 is its most potent expression to date.
α1 with superb resolution and speed ILCE-1
50 MP at 30fps
The latest Sony technology delivers unprecedented speed and resolution for new creative possibilities and workflow.
Resolution and speed
50.1 megapixels at up to 30 frames/second
The α1 offers an extraordinary combination of high resolution and blazing speed. Ultra-fast readout from the 50.1-MP sensor allows continuous bursts at up to 30fps with AF and AE tracking using the electronic shutter. Perfect for sports or any situation where the critical action is over in an instant.
Blackout-free for an uninterrupted view
An interrupted blackout-free view of the subject lets you respond instantly and seamlessly. The EVF is updated at 240fps to minimise latency during continuous shooting.
(A) Blackout-free Shooting (B) Shooting with blackouts
Silent, vibration-free shutter
A silent electronic shutter provides greater opportunities for shooting sports and other subjects where noise is not tolerated. Vibration-free operation contributes to high image quality.
Anti-distortion Shutter
Fast sensor readout minimises still-image distortion when using the electronic shutter. The BIONZ XRTM engine and a large buffer achieve about 1.5x less distortion than the α9 II.
[1] Conventional electronic shutter [2] Anti-distortion shutter
Flicker-free electronic and mechanical shutters
Another world-first: flicker-free electronic and mechanical shutters. You get flicker-free shooting under fluorescent/artificial lighting with all the benefits of the electronic shutter.
Anti-flicker [1] ON [2] OFF
Full-frame stacked 50.1-MP Exmor RS™ CMOS sensor with integral memory
A stacked architecture in this back-illuminated 50.1-MP full-frame image sensor contributes to high resolution and speed. Separate pixel and circuit layers and advanced A/D conversion mean faster processing.
All-new architecture and BIONZ XR image processing engine
The new BIONZ XR engine features advanced architecture that delivers 8x greater processing power. The result is outstanding image quality as well as improved camera interface response.
Advanced flash features for broader expression
Flash sync with electronic shutter
For the first time in an α camera, electronic shutter flash sync is possible thanks to high readout speed from the stacked CMOS sensor. All electronic shutter advantages remain available for flash shooting.
Dual driven shutter drive for flash sync up to 1/400 s.
The world's first dual driven shutter system allows flash sync up to 1/400 s., making it easier to capture dynamic action, and opening the door to new creative possibilities.
Stunning detail
Breathtaking resolution and image quality
The new 50.1-MP Exmor RS CMOS sensor delivers high resolution and sensitivity with low noise, plus up to 15 stops of dynamic range. A new image processing engine achieves even better colour accuracy than previous models.
Wide ISO 100–32000 sensitivity range
Despite the sensor's high pixel count, a sensitive back-illuminated structure with gapless on-chip lenses and an AR coated seal glass allows a standard ISO range of ISO 100–32000, expandable to ISO 50–102400.
Pixel Shift Multi Shooting
Up to 16 images shot with precise in-body image stabilisation control can be combined via computer software to create photos with up to 199 million pixels for extraordinary resolution, colour, and atmosphere.
[1] Normal Shooting [2] 16-image Pixel Shift Multi Shooting
Creative Look supports varied expression
The Creative Look feature provides 10 presets that can be used unmodified or edited to create a variety of "looks" that can help creators fine-tune the mood of their stills or movies in-camera.
5-axis optical in-body image stabilisation for a 5.5-step advantage
A precision stabilisation unit and gyro sensors plus the latest image stabilisation algorithms deliver a 5.5-step shutter speed advantage, maximising the quality of high-resolution images.
[1] Yaw [2] Pitch [3] Roll
Unrivalled auto focus
Real-time Eye AF for birds
High-level subject recognition technology now makes it possible for Sony's Real-time Eye AF function to track and accurately focus on bird eyes, even if the bird suddenly takes flight or the framing changes. This innovative function easily meets the many challenges of bird photography.
Improved Real-time Eye AF for animals
Primarily designed for cats and dogs, this feature employs advanced subject recognition technology to reliably track and focus on animal eyes. It even works if the animal's face is upside-down.
Real-time Eye AF
Combining state-of-the-art AI technology and evolved Fast Hybrid AF algorithms, Real-time Eye AF in the α1 tracks and focuses on human eyes with approximately 30% greater precision than the α9 II.
Real-time Tracking
Select a subject, half-press the shutter, and the camera will track and maintain focus automatically. Turn on AF face/eye priority for seamless AI-based tracking of human, animal, or bird eyes.
Wide, fast, precise AF tracking
The α1 features focal plane phase-detection AF that is sensitive, fast, and precise. The 50.1-MP sensor and BIONZ XR engine provide 759 selectable phase-detection points covering about 92% of the image.
New movie potential
Next-generation 8K 30p recording
The new image sensor and BIONZ XR engine in the α1 deliver 8K 30p movie recording capability for extraordinary realism. Four times the resolution of 4K with full Real-time Tracking and Real-time Eye AF functionality. 8K footage is also ideally suited to flexible 4K editing.
4K movies at a high 120fps frame rate
The α1 supports high frame-rate internal 4K movie recording at up to 120fps, for smooth, expressive slow-motion playback at up to 5x. 10-bit 4:2:2 chroma subsampling can be used with Long-GOP or Intra (All-I) compression for outstanding image quality, while the new image sensor and BIONZ XR engine minimise image distortion.
4K with full sensor readout, no pixel binning, and 5.8K oversampling
In the Super 35 mode, approximately 2.3x the amount of data required for QFHD 4K is acquired through full-frame readout with no pixel binning, for beautifully imagery that is rich in detail.
(A) 2.3 times information
10-bit 4:2:2 chroma subsampling
10-bit depth, 4:2:2 chroma subsampling, a high-efficiency MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec, intra-frame coding, and more, support flexible editing and a variety of delivery formats.
Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking for movies
The BIONZ XR engine features significantly improved detection, accurately tracking human eyes at a wider range of head angles. Also available for 8K and 4K 120p recording.
S-Log for compatibility with pro cine cameras
S-Log2 and S-Log3 are included. S-Log3 provides smooth 10-bit gradations and a dynamic range of 15+ stops. S-Gamut, S-Gamut3, and S-Gamut3.Cine colour spaces supported.
10-bit 4:2:2 HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) support
High-dynamic-range HLG movies support the wide-gamut BT.2020 colour space, and can be directly played on an HDR (HLG) compatible TV. 10-bit HLG recordings reproduce fine gradation and detail.
[1] High flexibility to fine-tune images as desired (colour grading required) [2] Instant high-quality image (colour grading not required)
16-bit RAW output
The α1 allows 16-bit RAW output to an external recorder via HDMI for improved post-production flexibility. RAW output via HDMI is available while recording 4K to internal card media.
Digital audio interface for superior sound
A digital audio interface delivers outstanding audio quality with compatible audio devices connected via the Multi Interface Shoe. Pristine digital audio is delivered directly to the camera.
Heat-dissipating structure for extended recording
A newly developed heat-dissipating structure prevents overheating during continuous recording without increasing body size. Record 8K/30p or 4K/60p video continuously for up to 30 minutes.
The cinematic S-Cinetone look
The α1 includes the same S-Cinetone colour matrix that produces beautiful colour and skin tones in the VENICE, FX6, and other Cinema Line cameras. S-Cinetone delivers natural mid-tones that are essential to healthy-looking skin colour, plus soft colours and gorgeous highlights, responding to a growing need for more expressive depth.
"Active Mode" image stabilisation
A new Active Mode dedicated to movie shooting makes 5-axis optical image stabilisation highly effective for handheld shooting. It uses the BIONZ XR engine's real-time processing capability to apply optimum compensation in all formats, including 4K. All of this is realised without compromising the compact size and mobility of the α system.
Control, reliability
High-performance electronic viewfinder
The 9.44 million-dot (approx.) OLED viewfinder in the α1 offers the highest resolution in the industry at this time. It features 0.90x magnification with a 41 ° FOV for a clear, wide view, and an updated structure that results in a 25-mm-high eyepoint. A 240fps refresh rate with UXGA FOV is another world-first, for a clear view of fast action.
Panning shots with electronic shutter
Using electronic shutter at low shutter speeds can reduce display response, making it difficult to follow fast subjects. Turn [Low Frame Rate Limit] ON to improve display response and allow panning shots.
Seamlessly switch full-frame and APS-C formats
M and S size images have the same number of pixels and AF area in the full-frame and APS-C modes, so you can switch seamlessly between full-frame [M:21MP] and APS-C [M:21MP] while shooting the same scene.
[1] Full Frame [2] APS-C
Separate settings for stills and movies
A subset of the settings now change according to the selected mode. This is ideal when you want to use different aperture, shutter speed, and other settings for shooting stills and movies.
New menu structure
Another feature requested by professional photographers and videographers: a revised menu structure for easier navigation, and touch-responsive menu operation for more intuitive control.
Customisable functions
164 Functions are assignable to 17 custom keys as well as the front and rear dials. Independent function sets can be assigned for stills, movies and playback.
Touch menu control
Touch-responsive main and function menus with menu tabs on the left of the display, and related parameter groups and parameters on the right, make for easy navigation and tracking control.
High-reliability mechanical shutter
Shutter vibration is minimised while allowing continuous bursts at up to 10fps. The new shutter unit with advanced motor, brake, and dampers is good for more than 500,000 cycles.
Two CFexpress Type A-compatible media slots
Dual media slots support UHS-I and UHS-II SDXC/SDHC cards as well as new CFexpress Type A cards for higher overall capacity and faster read/write speeds.
High-capacity Z-series battery for extended recording
Shoot up to 530 stills per charge. Components and circuitry have also been designed to optimise power use. Get more capacity with two Z batteries in the VG-C4EM grip.
Improved dust- and moisture-resistant design
Sealing is provided at all body seams and the battery cover. The media slots have a double sliding cover and lock that keep water out. A lens lock button and mount cushion help too.
Durable magnesium alloy chassis
A light, rigid magnesium alloy enhances the durability of the top, front, and rear covers as well as the internal frame. 6 lens mount attachment screws add even more strength and rigidity.
Pro workflow
Industry's fastest built-in Wi-Fi supports 2x2 MIMO
Built-in wireless LAN allows communication on the 2.4-GHz and 5-GHz bands, the latter with 2x2 MIMO support (IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac). Dual antennas ensure reliable communication.
SuperSpeed USB 10-Gbps (USB 3.2) Type-C® connector
A USB Type-C® connector that supports fast USB 3.2 SuperSpeed USB 10-Gbps data transfer, making fast PC Remote (tethered) data transfer available for smooth handling of large files.
1000BASE-T Ethernet for fast communication
A built-in connector for wired 1000BASE-T connection enables fast, stable data transfers at gigabit speeds. FTPS is supported, allowing SSL or TLS encryption for greater security.
Versatile FTP connectivity
FTP still and movie uploads as well as remote camera control can be accomplished via wireless LAN, fast wired LAN, or a USB-tethered smartphone. File types for transfer can be specified.
FTP transfer of still and movie files
Stills and movies can be transferred to a remote FTP server via wireless LAN, high-speed wired LAN, or a wired smartphone connection. Wireless data throughput is about 3.5x faster than the α9 II.
Versatile remote (tethered) shooting functions
The Imaging Edge Desktop "Remote" application can be used for PC Remote (tethered) shooting via a wireless LAN or wired USB connection. Remote control from a mobile device is also possible.
Lossless compressed RAW
The α1 includes efficient lossless compression in addition to compressed and uncompressed RAW.
New "Light" JPEG size
A new "Light" JPEG size setting results in smaller files than the "Standard" setting, allowing faster delivery for news and sports photographers who depend on speed.
10-bit HEIF for smoother gradations
HEIF format can deliver smooth 10-bit gradations for more realistic reproduction of skies and portrait subjects. Advanced compression reduces file size for improved workflow efficiency.
A range of useful support applications
Imaging Edge Mobile
Imaging Edge Mobile now allows transfer of RAW files and files that use lossless compression. It can also remotely control Touch Tracking and Touch Focus for convenient AF operation.
Transfer & Tagging add-on
The Transfer & Tagging add-on (Ver. 1.3 or later) can automatically covert voice memos attached to image files to text captions, or transfer the files to an FTP server from a mobile device.
Remote Camera Tool
Remotely change camera settings and shoot from a computer connected via LAN cable. A number of refinements for the α1: faster transfer, touch response, dual slot and HEIF support, and more.
Imaging Edge™ Remote, Viewer and Edit desktop apps
Elevate your photography with Imaging Edge desktop applications. Use "Remote" to control and monitor shooting live on your PC screen; "Viewer" to quickly preview, rate, and select photos from large image libraries; and "Edit" to develop RAW data into high-quality photos for delivery.
Imaging Edge™ Webcam
The Imaging Edge Webcam application makes it easy to use your Sony camera as a high quality webcam, with wide compatibility, for impressive live streaming and conferencing.
Especially for α1 Enthusiasts
SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES
With all-new key devices and technology, the α1 offers high resolution and unprecedented speed combined with sensitivity and dynamic range that can bring the creator's vision to life. All of this is backed up by professional features and workflow that make it possible to deliver stills and movies for a new era of visual communication.
- SENSOR TYPE
- 35-mm full frame (35.9 x 24.0 mm), Exmor RS CMOS sensor
- NUMBER OF PIXELS (EFFECTIVE)
- Approx. 50.1 megapixels
- ISO SENSITIVITY (RECOMMENDED EXPOSURE INDEX)
- Still images: ISO 100–32000 (ISO numbers up from ISO 50 to ISO 102400 can be set as expanded ISO range.), AUTO (ISO 100–12800, selectable lower limit and upper limit), Movies: ISO 100–32000 equivalent, AUTO (ISO 100–12800, selectable lower limit and upper limit)
- BATTERY LIFE (STILL IMAGES)
- Approx. 430 shots (Viewfinder) / approx. 530 shots (LCD monitor) (CIPA standard)
- VIEWFINDER TYPE
- 1.6 cm (0.64 type) electronic viewfinder (colour)
- MONITOR TYPE
- 7.5 cm (3.0-type) type TFT
