Hire Sony Alpha 1 (a1)

Our thoughts

'The a1 is a remarkable hybrid from Sony. Featuring a 50-megapixel full-frame EXMOR sensor capable of 30 shots per second, the alpha 1 is no less impressive in the video department, offering 8k 30 frames and 4k 120 respectively. With 5 axis in-body image stabilisation and class-leading autofocus, it sort of feels like you could put this camera in the hands of any shooter, regardless of discipline, and they would all find a plethora of features to love. Full-frame E (FE) mount.'

V1.30 firmware update:

Benefits and Improvements:

• Allows you to select M and S sizes in addition to L when using the RAW recording lossless compression method
• Adds the 4:2:2 10bit selection when shooting XAVC HS 8K
• Allows proxy recording during a remote computer connection

The One 

Sony continues to challenge the limits of conventional imaging tools with innovative technology that delivers an unprecedented combination of resolution and speed plus intuitive operation. The α1 offers new dimensions of imaging performance as well as efficient workflow, giving the user new creative freedom. 

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 30 fps 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 240 fps to minimise latency during continuous shooting. 

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. 

Flicker-free electronic & 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. 

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. 

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 sec. 

The world’s first dual driven shutter system allows flash sync up to 1/400 sec., making it easier to capture dynamic action and opening the door to new creative possibilities. 

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 ISO100 ~ 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 ISO100~32000, expandable to ISO50~102400. 

Pixel Shift Multi Shooting 

Up to 16 images shot with precise in-body image stabilization control can be combined via computer software to create photos with up to 199 million pixels for extraordinary resolution, colour, and atmosphere. 

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 stabilization algorithms deliver a 5.5 step shutter speed advantage, maximising the quality of high-resolution images. 

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 

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 120 fps frame rate 

The α1 supports high frame rate internal 4K movie recording at up to 120 fps, 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 minimize 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. 

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. 

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 25mm 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. 

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 10 fps. 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 optimize 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. 

Comprehensive connectors 

The α1 offers versatile connectivity through a variety of ports: HDMI Type-A, USB Type-C, LAN, and more. 

Drive Focus mode dial 

Stacked Drive Mode and Focus Mode dials offer direct access for fast on-the-fly operation. 

Tiltable monitor 

The α1 LCD monitor is a high-quality touch-responsive 3.0 type that tilts up by 107° and down by 41°. 

Power-off shutter close 

When the camera is powered OFF the shutter closes to protect the sensor from dust during lens changes. 

IR white balance sensor 

This sensor contributes to more accurate white balance under fluorescent, LED, or other artificial light. 

USB power & fast charge 

USB PD (Power Delivery) is supported. Higher current capacity means you can shoot without battery drain 

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 10Gbps (USB 3.2) Type-C® connector 

A USB Type-C® connector that supports fast USB 3.2 SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps data transfer makes 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 deliver 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. 

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. 

Learn more about Imaging Edge Mobile 

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. 

Learn more about Transfer & Tagging add-on 

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. 

Learn more about Imaging Edge Desktop 

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. 

Learn more about Imaging Edge Webcam 

Specifications & 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. 

• 50.1MP 35 mm full-frame stacked CMOS sensor with integral memory 

• Advanced BIONZ XR engine boosts speed by up to 8x 

• 30fps continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking 

• Movie making with 8K 30p and 4K 120p 

• Wide AF coverage with 759-point phase-detection and 425-point contrast detection AF points

Sensor Type 

35mm full frame (35.9 x 24.0mm), 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 

7.5cm (3.0-type) type TFT