Sony revolutionized the camera market when they launched the first ever full-frame mirrorless model back in 2013. Their FE system has since become an industry benchmark for image quality and performance in a lightweight, compact form factor.
This in-depth guide will provide everything you need to know about Sony FE from a retail and consumer perspective – from its advantages over traditional DSLRs to help selecting the right FE camera and lenses for your needs and budget.
How Does Sony FE Compare to Canon/Nikon Full-Frame DSLRs?
Sony’s mirrorless technology brings some key benefits:
Image Quality
- Sony FE sensor scores top DXOMark ratings, beating equivalent Canon/Nikon models
- Less risk of minor faults with fewer components (no separate AF module)
- No anti-aliasing filter maximizes detail (a7R models)
- Astrophotographers achieve lower noise due to no IR filter over sensor
Autofocus
- Sony’s hybrid AF leverages both phase and contrast detection
- Industry-leading Eye AF tracks focus on eyes of humans/animals
- Continuous AF/AE calculation at up to 60fps beats DSLR viewfinder lag
Frame Rate
- Electronic shutter enables silent 20fps burst shooting (a9 models)
- No mirror blackout helps track fast action sequences
Video Capabilities
- Most Sony models offer oversampled, artefact-free 4K video
- Log shooting preserves dynamic range for cinematic effects
- Fast sensor readout speeds eliminate rolling shutter effect
Canon/Nikon still have advantages in lens selection and optical viewfinders. But mirrorless cameras reduce size, improve burst speed, and offer more features that simply can’t be matched by their older DSLR technology.
Identifying Sony FE Lenses – What to Look For
With so many options on the market, here are tips to recognize Sony FE lenses:
Naming Convention
Lenses compatible with Sony full frame cameras will include “FE” in the name, such as “FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM”. Sometimes only “FE” appears, like on the “FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS” prime lens.
Lens Markings
Take a close look at any writing printed on the lens barrel itself. Sony FE lenses clearly display “FE” marked alongside the focal length and aperture.
Mount Compatibility
Sony FE lenses feature a white rectangular marking on the mounting ring that connects to the camera body. This identifies compatibility with full frame E-mount models.
Image Circle
FE lenses project an image circle large enough to cover a full frame sensor (36 x 24 mm). Using a cropped sensor lens could result in heavy vignetting when mounted to an FE camera.
By checking for the FE marking and rectangular white alignment dot, you can easily recognize lenses purpose-built for Sony’s full frame alphas.
The Evolution of Sony FE Cameras and Technology
Sony has stayed ahead of the competition by constantly evolving their full-frame mirrorless technology ever since that first α7 camera.
Introducing a Full-Frame Mirrorless Market (2013) – The 24MP α7 and 36MP α7R brought quality on par with DSLRs but in a more compact, modular body. This was made possible by eliminating the complex mirror system.
5-Axis In-Body Stabilization (2014) – The α7 II added advanced 5-axis IBIS allowing sharp images even with slower shutter speeds. This opened up handheld low light photography without needing stabilized lenses.
Backside Illuminated Sensors (2015) – By wiring the circuitry behind the sensor, more light capture was possible. This enabled stunning low noise, high ISO performance in the α7S and α7R II models.
Fast Hybrid Autofocus (2016) – Precision AF tracking at up to 20fps came to the α9, along with blackout-free burst shooting courtesy of the stacked sensor design.
Real-Time Tracking and Eye AF (2019) – Models like the α7R IV and α9 II achieved reliable focus on the eyes of humans and animals, even with erratic subject movement.
Periscope Design Zooms (2020) – Innovations like extending telescoping lens elements allowed high quality compact body FE zoom lenses like the FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS.
Sony FE Camera Buying Guide
Confused between the many flavors of Alpha? Here is a simplified breakdown of Sony‘s FE system by tier.
Entry Level – Around $1000
The most affordable entry point to full-frame is the original α7 model available used or refurbished. It still holds up for landscape and general photography. Otherwise the modern α7 III brings updated autofocus and video features.
Good for – Enthusiasts, travel photography
Key specs – 24MP sensor, 10fps bursts, 4K video, dual UHS-II SD card slots
Mid-Range – $1500 to $2000
The well-rounded hybrid shooter α7 IV brings a brand new 33MP sensor with outstanding dynamic range and 15-stop Sync IS mode for avoiding blur.
Good for – Portraits, events, journalism
Key specs – 33MP sensor, 10fps bursts, 6K oversampled 4K video, active cooling
High-End Prosumer – $2500 to $3500
Serious amateurs and professionals will appreciate the advanced autofocus algorithms powering the sports and action oriented α9 II. Its stacked 20MP sensor enables silent 20 fps blackout-free bursts.
If sheer resolution is the priority, the α7R IV delivers an astounding 61 megapixels of detail along with Pixel Shift Multi Shooting to capture 240MP composite RGB images.
Good for – Wildlife, action, landscapes, commercial photographers
Key Specs
- α7R IV – 61MP stills, Pixel Shift Mode, 5.76m dot EVF
- α9 II – 20MP, 20fps burst speed, massive autofocus coverage area
Recommended Sony FE Lenses
With the sharp decline in DSLR sales, third party manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron now actively develop lenses for Sony’s E-mount system. Here are some top FE lens picks for every budget.
Budget Primes Under $600
- Sony 50mm f/1.8 FE
- Sigma 40mm f/1.4 DG DN
- Tamron 35mm f/2.8 Di III OSD
Prosumer Zooms $800-$1200
- Sony 16-35mm f/4 FE
- Sony 70-200mm f/4 FE G OSS
- Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD
Premium Primes Over $1200
- Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM
- Sony 135mm f/1.8 GM
- Sigma 105mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Top-End Zooms Over $2000
- Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM
- Sony 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS
- Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD
With outstanding optical quality and fast, silent autofocus – Sony‘s first party G Master lenses live up to their name. But excellent value and performance can still be found from Sigma and Tamron‘s offerings.
The Future of Sony Full Frame and FE Lens Roadmap
Sony still has big plans brewing both in bodies and lenses that will keep them ahead of the pack. Here are some exciting things we can expect next for their full frame system based on patents and interviews.
FE Lens Roadmap
So far Sony has primarily focused on workhorse zooms and premium 1.4 or 1.2 aperture primes. Some gaps they still need to fill include:
- Affordable compact primes ~f/2 or faster
- Ultra-wide exotic zooms – 15-30mm f/2.8 and a 14-24mm f/2.8
- More bright telephoto prime lenses like a 300mm f/2.8 GM
Camera Body Innovations
With processing and sensor fabrication continuously improving, Sony bodies will push capabilities even further:
- Global shutters removing rolling distortion from fast action
- 8K video modes becoming standardized
- AI-assisted autofocus, subject recognition and processing
- Lossless compressed RAW files further improving image quality
The pace of camera technology shifts has accelerated tremendously. As pioneers of full frame mirrorless, expect Sony to continue leading the charge.
Sony FE Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Sony E-mount lenses work on full frame cameras?
No. Only FE lenses will maintain edge-to-edge sharpness. Regular E-mount lenses for Sony‘s APS-C bodies will work but will give heavy vignetting.
Is lens stabilization necessary with Sony IBIS?
Sony‘s 5-axis system compensates well for handshake, but optical stabilization still helps for longer focal lengths or panning. Best to have both where possible.
What memory cards work best for Sony‘s fastest burst modes?
CFexpress Type A cards currently offer the fastest write speeds to clear buffer quickly. UHS-II SD cards still work but may choke bandwidth in some scenarios.
Can I use Canon/Nikon lenses on Sony cameras?
Yes, using adapters. Autofocus and aperture control works with first party adapters but consider manual lenses for reliability. Certain features like stabilization may not function either.
Editing Sony RAW Files
To take full advantage of the flexible 14-bit data and wide dynamic range in Sony ARW RAW files, follow these editing tips:
Expose to the Right
When possible, safely overexpose images by around 1/3rd of a stop during shooting without blowing highlights. This reduces noise and preserves detail in the shadows when pulling back exposure later.
Adjust White Balance
Check white balance using the eyedropper on neutrally colored elements of the image to cancel any color casts from the lighting.
Enhance Details
Make use of luminosity masking techniques to independently process contrast and detail in highlights vs. midtones vs. shadows. This avoids losing texture and dimension while still enhancing crispness.
Following an ETTR methodology and leveraging layer masks will help draw out the best Sony files have to offer.
Connectivity and Power Solutions for Sony Cameras
One reason pros love mirrorless models is their degree of connectivity and customization possible to speed up workflows.
Tether Shooting – Sony‘s Imaging Edge Desktop software allows real-time capture control, exposure previewing and instant RAW file transfer over USB-C or WiFi.
External Power – High capacity V-Mount or Gold Mount batteries from IDX, Core SWX or Bebob can power cameras for hours without swapping.
Wireless Transmitters – Devices like the Sony XDCA-FX3 extension unit provide pro-grade connections for audio, Ethernet, XLR and SDI without any cables.
Camera Cages – Aftermarket cages from companies like SmallRig allow mounting recorders, batteries, handles and more while protecting camera bodies.
If portability is not paramount, Sony alphas can transform into highly modular studio production powerhouses.
Sony shook up the photography world when they dared ask why mirrors were still necessary on digital cameras. Their full fame FE system has thrived thanks to this innovative spirit – continuously improving autofocus, image quality and video features.
Mirrorless cameras offer tangible benefits, but their success ultimately comes down to the images themselves. Once holding an FE camera it becomes apparent – outstanding dynamic range, lifelike colors and crisp details just sing.
For discerning professionals, hobbyists and content creators alike seeking no compromise quality in a streamlined package – it‘s hard to beat what Sony FE currently offers.
