If you’ve followed this blog you’ve read why the Sony A7c is flawed, how it’s the best vlog camera, and today I’m writing why it’s worth it.
The Sony A7C is a compact full-frame mirrorless camera that was released in 2020. It has since become a popular option for photographers and videographers looking for a compact camera that still delivers high image quality and performance.
Before the camera was released I was stoked about all the rumors, and when it finally came out I was pretty disappointed it didn’t get the same touch screen as the A7siii and EVF.
The A7c does not follow any other previous Sony camera series. It’s a marriage between multiple Sony cameras. It has the flip screen of the A7siii, sensor of the A7iii, and body of the A6000 line.
Sony A7C vs A7Cii
Before we discuss all the reasons to get the A7C, let’s talk about why you would choose it over the A7Cii.
The A7Cii is a great camera, and it’s better than the A7C in most instances but it’s much more expensive, it’s heavier, and I would argue the the A7C has a slightly better low light sensor.
The only reason I would get the A7Cii over the A7C is if you need a slightly larger grip, more megapixels, the ability to shoot video in 10 bit 4:2:2, and 4k 60.
That’s about it.
Reason #1
The Sony A7c is the best vlog camera
First, the A7c is a vlog camera. That’s its primary purpose. And it’s one of the best vlog cameras because of the size and portability.
It also has gyro data for better video image stabilization, and if you can’t afford the Sony a7siii, like me, it’s a great option for video. In some ways it’s better than the A7siii, Fx3, and Fx30 because it’s smaller.
For me, I use it with my 24mm 1.4 GM and a variable ND filter. This eliminates the hassle of cleaning the sensor, bringing extra gear, and changing out filters.
Here are a few other reasons why I think it’s the best vlog camera today.
- Compact Size: The Sony A7C is a compact camera that is easy to carry around, making it perfect for vloggers who need to travel.
- Excellent Image Quality: The Sony A7C features a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor and the latest image processing technology from Sony. This results in excellent image quality with sharp detail, accurate colors, and low noise.
- Video Capabilities: The A7C is capable of recording 4K video with full-frame readout, making it a great option for vloggers who want high-quality video content. It also has slow-motion video recording and can shoot full-HD video at 120 frames per second, which is ideal for creating dynamic and engaging vlog content.
- Built-In Microphone: The Sony A7C has a built-in microphone, which is perfect for vloggers who need to record audio on the go. The microphone is good enough for basic audio recording, but you can also use an external microphone for better sound quality.
- Autofocus: The A7C has fast and accurate autofocus, making it easy to capture clear and sharp video footage, even in challenging lighting conditions. This is especially important for vloggers who need to quickly adjust focus while shooting on the go.
Reason #2
The Sony A7C is the best lightweight full frame camera
I’ve always been searching for the lightest camera for backpacking. The A6000 series cameras are great, but I only have full frame lenses and they’re all large.
As you can see with the comparison on the right, the A7C is really right in the middle of the a5100 and the A7riii in relation to size.
I think the A7c is the best alternative because the body is nearly as light as the aps-c cameras and stores better in a bag than my A7riii. It also reminds me to use less gear because of its size.
The A7c is a lightweight camera that provides photographers with a combination of portability, comfort, ease of use, cost-effectiveness, versatility, and convenience.
Reason #3
The A7c is the best budget vlog camera
The reason I decided against the A7c before was mostly because the asking price was $1800 without a lens.
I found some great deals around black Friday, but the best deal was from Greentoe. They had the camera body for $1620.
Greentoe is awesome, because it doesn’t include tax. If I decide on something different in the next year I can sell it for the price I paid for it. If you buy the A7c Used, you should also be able to find it under $1500.
Reason #4
It’s different than any other Sony camera
The Sony A7iv is probably the most anticipated camera for 2021. I was thinking about holding off and getting the A7iv, but I just don’t see how it can be that much better.
I’m sure the A7iv will have some great upgrades but it won’t have the A7c body size. I just couldn’t see enough reasons to wait for the A7iv. I don’t care enough about 4k 60, and the touch screen will be nice but it won’t be as good as Canon.
If the A7iv had 10 bit 4:2:2 it might be worth it, but I don’t see that happening.
Reason #5
A great second camera
One other reason I wanted this camera was to have a secondary camera, so I don’t have to swap out lenses. I can have my wide prime lens ready on the A7c and a zoom or telephoto on my A7iv.
I now have to carry two cameras, but I don’t have to change out lenses.
One last reason I wanted these two cameras is for astrophotography. My A7riii is great, but the A7c sensor is better for astrophotography for its low light abilities. It also has less megapixels which produces less star trails.
The only problem I’m having now is the camera bag. I now need a bag that will fit two cameras. We may have to talk about that in a separate article.
Reason #6
It’s a great portrait camera
I wrote another article about how I used the A7c for wedding photography and what settings to use. This camera surprised me when doing weddings and it’s really a super easy to use camera for weddings, events, senior portraits, couples because of the stellar autofocus and in body stabilization.
Its compact size, fast autofocus, Eye-AF, video capabilities, and interchangeable lenses make it an excellent choice for capturing stunning portraits on a wedding day or other event.
Reason #7
Landscape photography
The Sony A7c is also great for landscape photography. I shot the image above right at sunset. Here are a few reasons why it’s the perfect choice for landscapes:
- Full-frame sensor: It provides excellent image quality and dynamic range, allowing photographers to capture the full range of colors and detail in a landscape scene.
- 5-axis image stabilizationization: This makes it easier to shoot sharp, blur-free images, even in low light conditions and often without a tripod.
- Silent Shooting mode: This can be useful for landscape photography in areas where noise may disturb the peace and quiet of the environment.
- Weather-sealing: The A7c is weather-sealed, making it suitable for use in inclement weather conditions and providing peace of mind.
- Lightweight: It’s helpful in reducing every ounce you need when backpacking or hiking.
Overall, the Sony A7c is a versatile, lightweight and capable camera that is well-suited for landscape photography.
The best camera for Astrophotography
The A7c is the best camera for astrophotography because it’s lightweight, easy to use with a star tracker, and it has the perfect ratio for dynamic range and megapixel size so your images aren’t too noisy.
I’ve directly compared this camera to both the Sony A7IV and ZV-E1, and I believe it outperforms them both.
Read my other article on why the A7c is the best camera for astrophotography to learn more.
Is it still worth it?
In the question of whether the Sony A7C is worth it will largely depend on your needs, but here are some pros and cons to consider.
- The Sony A7C features a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor
- It’s capable of recording 4K video with a full-frame readout but only 60p with 1080
- No 10 bit 4:2:2
- Compact Design
- More affordable than other camera in it’s class or the A7Cii
In conclusion, the Sony A7C is a versatile camera that delivers excellent image quality and video capabilities in a compact form factor. Whether or not it is worth it in 2023 will depend on your individual needs and wants, as well as your budget.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a great vlog camera that packs everything you need for full-frame, go with the Sony A7c. It’s a great vlog camera, it’s small, and it makes a great second camera.
After one year, I’ve been using it as my primary camera for astrophotography, landscapes, video, and recently used it to shoot a wedding. In most cases, I prefer it over my A7riii.
How to use the Sony A7c for wedding photography
