Sony will release three mirrorless models in 2022, according to Sony Alpha Rumors: the Sony a7R V, the a9 III, and an “unknown” camera.
Together, these cameras will bolster Sony’s already impressive mirrorless lineup and even expand into new territory, depending on the identity of the yet-to-be-revealed third offering.
The Sony a7R V will succeed the a7R IV, Sony’s high-resolution, full-frame camera designed for landscape and commercial photographers. Despite its megapixel-centric design, the a7R IV is a surprisingly capable all-around body, featuring snappy autofocus, 10 frames-per-second continuous shooting, and 4K/30p video, in addition to a beautiful 5.76M-dot electronic viewfinder and a tilting screen.
But Sony will undoubtedly aim to push the envelope with the a7R V. Current rumors and speculation suggest that while the a7R V will pack the same 61 MP sensor as the a7R IV, continuous shooting speeds may increase (to 15 or 20 fps, compared to 10 fps on the a7R IV). You can also expect a generous autofocus upgrade, a 9.44M-dot electronic viewfinder, and 8K video.
Might Sony fit the a7R V with a higher-resolution sensor? It’s possible, according to Sony Alpha Rumors. Reports have floated around regarding a 102 MP sensor, though 61 MP is still more likely.
The Sony a9 III, like the a9 II, will cater directly to professional sports photographers. Rumored specifications are scarce, but you can bank on a body with improved autofocus and shooting speed upgrades (the a9 II shoots at 20 fps, so look for 30 fps or even 60 fps in the a9 III), as well as all the standard features: a 24 MP sensor, a rugged body, dual-card slots, and in-body image stabilization.
And Sony’s unspecified camera? What might it offer?
Photographer and YouTuber Tony Northrup predicts a Sony a5, an entry-level full-frame camera to rival the Canon EOS RP and Nikon Z5. As Northrup points out, Sony’s lineup currently contains no real low-end full-frame cameras; the closest is the a7C, which currently retails for around $1800. Sony offers several low-cost APS-C models, but hobbyists looking to make the jump to full frame are forced to shell out for the a7C, a7 III, or a7 IV – or settle for older cameras that lack certain key features (such as Sony’s latest and greatest autofocusing algorithms).
So keep an eye out for news regarding these three cameras. The a7R V will likely debut first – though all three should be unveiled before the year is out!
Now over to you:
What cameras do you hope to see from Sony in 2022? Do you plan to purchase any of the new models? And what do you think of the rumored a7R V specifications? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
