A Hike: Bringing Stability to the Bumpy Trail with the Sony a7ii

Sony recently released the second generation of their full-frame mirrorless a7. The a7 mark ii or a7ii has many new features, but the most advanced feature is that the large sensor sits on a 5-axis stabilization system. This new feature is great for photography because it allows for lower shutter speeds while taking handheld shots, but is more advantageous for videography and cinematography where handheld shots are commonly rendered useless because of the camera shake. 

In this video, every single shot is handheld! If you have any experience with handheld video shots, you will understand how much this new stabilization works. I did a variety of shots: panning/slider, rack focus, combination of both, following shots were I was walking, and normal stationary shots. (Disclaimer: I did add some stabilization in post.)

Additionally, this camera has sLog2 options which is a setting that allows a lot of flexibility in post. My favorite feature of the s Log 2 is that it allows for a dramatic dynamic range. If you notice the shots that have subject and the clouds, I purposely framed that image to show the clouds because you can see the details in the bright clouds while not improperly exposing the subjects. Thanks to Denver Riddle at Color Grading Central for the new Color Finale that is perfect for color correction. 

Overall, this first real life test has confirmed that purchasing this little camera was a really good idea. I am so excited to bring this to the Hawaii wedding photography and videography realm.