Sony a9 Camera Review

The Sony a9 Full Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera is made specifically for both the wedding photographer who needs to capture every detail of a perfect day and the sports photographer who can’t afford to miss that perfect shot.

With high quality in both still and moving images, as well as easy-to-change settings, this is one camera that won’t ‘shutter’ up easily.

The dual memory port is just one of the many features that make this camera a marked improvement from the older models.

While the price does make it an investment and not a hobby tool, some may be wary. With its slight tendency to overheat in hot weather, this might be a camera that’s worth looking out for.

We’ve made sure to get the scoop on this device, so you can make the best buying decision. Is it going to be the one that captures your perfect day to hold on to forever? Let’s find out.

Sony a9: The Details

Specs

• Weight:3 lbs.
• How many megapixels: 3840 x 2160p.
• Display Size: 3 inches.
• Display Resolution: 4K UHD 2160p.
• Optical Zoom: 1x
• Viewfinder Type: Electronic EVF viewfinder.

Accessories

The Sony a9 Camera is accompanied by all the necessary accessories to make your day out in the sun as comfortable as possible.

While you won’t find any extras here that are compatible with other cameras, you’re sure to be well stocked no matter what the occasion you’re trying to preserve.

• Power cord.
• Rechargeable Battery NP-FZ100.
• Battery Charger BC-QZ1.
• Cable Protector.
• AC Adapter.
• Shoulder Strap.
• Body Cap.
• Shoe Cap.
• Eyepiece Cup.
• Micro USB cable.
• Instruction Manual.

Features

Touchscreen

The touchscreen is an optional setting since it comes disabled upon arrival. This gives you the chance to use the camera in the way you prefer.

While not everyone grows fond of the touch screen, several of our testers were brave enough to test these waters and discover if it could be a bonus to their work.

Using the touchscreen allows you to focus on the spot where you’re pressing. Once you get used to this feature, it allows for a more instinctive handling of your work process.

Since this feature can be disabled and enabled at will, you can get used to this feature at your own leisure, a valuable asset in case old habits die hard.

Direct Controls

Sony has made an effort to improve the direct controls on this camera, offering increased handling in comparison with earlier models, as well as an improvement on the previously existing direct controls.

The existing controls have enhanced feedback and click when being turned, removing any guesswork you might have about whether or not your adjustments are actually going through.

You will find the drive and autofocus modes now have their own dedicated buttons, as well as a joystick for AF. These changes have been received favorably and have lifted the Sony a9 Camera to a new level.

20fps3 Continuous Shooting

If you’re big on photographing sports (or you’re just trying to photograph a hyperactive toddler) you know that sometimes the perfect shot is hiding in a single second.

Continuous shooting can be a photographer’s best friend, and with 20fps3 at full 24.2MP resolution, there’s no way you’ll be missing out on the best shots.

Of course, this is all done with both AF and AE continuously available. The larger high-speed buffer ensures you can start shooting from the best moment and end when you decide to, without losing a single moment.

Dual Media Slots

Less is more, but when it comes to memory capacity, you just want more and more. One of these dual media slots is dedicated to an SD card or memory stick, while the other one is suited for an UHS-II.

Both still and movie data can be recorded to the two cards at once in case you’re nervous about losing data, or you can alternate your RAW and JPEG images between cards to your liking.

If you’re feeling antsy about possibly losing a single video or shot, you can always copy a file between both cards while they’re still in the camera. No need to lug a computer with you just for that task!

Silent Shooting 

Photographers are usually better off not heard, that’s how you get those precious candid moments. Sony has designed the a9 with a silent shutter so your event won’t be interrupted by the famous ‘click’.

This is especially great for wedding photographers who rather not ruin the moment, but still want to get those great moments caught on camera.

Full-Frame 4K11 Video

Thanks to full pixel readout and no pixel binning, you can make gorgeous 4K videos without having to sacrifice speed or accuracy.

Once you’re comfortable using this camera, you’ll find that you can review and edit these videos at your leisure.

Sony a9 Review

The Positives

Better Controls Feedback

Few things are more annoying than pressing controls multiple times, failing to realize the system registered them the first time around.

Thanks to the improved feedback, you will know when a button has been pushed and you won’t spend time needlessly trying to activate the button.

Sony has designed this camera with the photographer in mind, positioning buttons for better handling and turning so users can stay focused on the viewfinder without interrupting their flow.

This time is better spent capturing the perfect shot, and now you won’t have to miss a single one.

Suitable For Wet Days

While we don’t recommend taking this camera for an underwater adventure, it can handle the occasional drizzle or wet, misty day.

The best thing is that it won’t start to protest when you take it out during mild rain. Since photographing under these conditions isn’t desirable most of the time, at least you’ll be able to adapt to the circumstances.

Sometimes less than ideal weather conditions can make for surprisingly interesting shots, and the Sony a9 will at least give you a quick chance to try out your weather photography skills.

User Friendly

When you’re used to an old camera, it can take a long time before you’re up to speed with a new one. The Sony a9 Camera is easy to adjust to your personal preferences even while you’re on the go.

While we recommend taking a few hours to go over everything in peace, there’s no reason to worry that ‘strange’ set-ups are going to impede your job.

Many users also found that once they got over the fact that they were using a touchscreen to assist with their photography, that it was actually very easy and intuitive to use.

Portable Yet Durable 

Whether you’re using this camera for business, or just taking it on an adventure filled holiday, it’s always good to know that your camera will hold up.

The Sony a9 has a magnesium alloy body and grips, with an increased number of screws for added security.

This means you won’t have to worry too much when carrying your camera with you. It’s made to withstand the bumps that happen during travel (or a hectic shoot).

The lens and flash are designed to be dust and moisture resistant, and most of the camera’s points are sealed to help keep out harmful things that can easily damage your camera.

This doesn’t mean it’s heavy. Weighing in at just over a pound, this camera is easily portable with its lightweight yet durable build.

Great at Doing Double-Duty 

Most cameras are better left for photography, even if a video feature is included. The Sony a9 Camera, however, delivers on both.

Customers have praised this camera for having great image quality, and also enjoy shooting videos with the a9 too.

Sony boosts this camera above many of its kind by offering the option to shoot in 4K, so you’re movies are as crisp and clear as the photos shot with this camera.

Want to add a bit of drama to your videos? By recording full HD video at 120fps, you’ll be able to edit your videos into slow-motion.

The Negatives

Slight Overheating

Most cameras run into some overheating, so this isn’t a huge con for us, and it is highly dependent on how extensive your use is.

If you’re spending a hot summer’s day using every last bit of this camera, you might wind up seeing an alert symbol.

While our camera hasn’t shut down on us in a critical moment, it might be the sign for you to take a few minutes and cool down yourself.

Here’s a video showing what the Sony a9 Camera looks like out of the box.

Overall Verdict

The Sony a9 Camera is geared toward wedding photographers and sports photographers alike, thanks to the great quality and overall smooth continuous shooting.

Videos are another specialty of this camera, so if you’re looking to combine one thing with the other, there’s no going wrong with the Sony a9 Camera.

While some people have panicked about seeing the overheating symbol appear, this issue mostly happens when you’ve been out in the sun all day with nothing but the most high-performing features.

As such, the ‘average’ wedding or sports photographer likely won’t run into this issue or will experience no downfalls from this.

Because of the price, this is not likely to be a camera that will find its way into the hands of hobbyists. All in all, this is a camera with great quality that continues to perform well no matter what you’re using it for.

The intuitive controls and easy set-up are sure to make it a winner for even the most stubborn of photographers. If you find yourself often switching between photographs and video, this is the best DSLR camera for you.

Where to Buy the Sony a9 Camera

Sony is one of the top brand names when it comes to technology. They’ve been around for decades, continuously upgrading their line of products, including cameras, to keep up with our everchanging world.

Thanks to their success, they’ve continued to be a popular brand, constantly getting the attention of customers and enthusiasts with their items.

Products like the Sony a9 Camera can be found both in-store and online. While it’s always best to check tech, home department, or photography stores, you can kick-start your search with the following online retailers.

• Best Buy (from $4,099)
• Henrys (from $5,499)
• BH Audio Video (from $4, 098)

And of course, you can also find this camera on Amazon.

That’s a wrap on our Sony a9 review. Curious to give this camera a try?