Sony α99 II With Back-illuminated Full-frame Image Sensor - ILCA99M2

42.4-megapixel back-illuminated full-frame CMOS sensor

Boasting its approx. 42.4 effective megapixel resolution, 99 II has a 35 mm full-frame CMOS image sensor with back-illuminated structure, widely expanded sensitivity range, and extra-low noise performance. It also has no optical low-pass filter that can compromise sharpness, so fine clarity and detail extend from edge to edge of every frame.

High-speed BIONZ X image processing engine and front-end LSI

With detail reproduction technology to capture the essence of realism, diffraction-reducing technology to maintain clarity even at smaller apertures, and area-specific noise reduction to lower noise adaptively and reproduce greater detail, the BIONZ X image processing engine finely tunes the image sensor's effective 42.4-megapixel (approx.) data for truer, clearer depiction. 99 II is supported by a new front-end LSI to boost image data handling.

Brilliant AF and AE tracking even at 12fps

Track your subject regardless of how it moves. Revolutionary Hybrid Phase Detection AF System can capture even quick imminent movements – thanks to dense AF point coverage over a wide area and accelerated readout by the new image sensor for high-efficiency processing of vast amounts of phase-detection information. Through this sophisticated AF system–and faster shutter action due to a newly developed charge unit in the shutter mechanism–you can shoot up to 12fps continuously with steadfast AF and AE tracking, allowing you to catch decisive moments in sharp detail at the proper focus and exposure.

8fps live-view continuous shooting

The camera achieves continuous shooting of up to 8fps for live-view shooting, using an improved display algorithm for OLED Tru-Finder and LCD monitor. Minimized display time lag lets you easily keep tracking a subject in motion.

Flicker-free shooting

Flicker from fluorescent and other artificial lighting is automatically detected and the shutter is timed to minimize its effect on still images. This suppresses exposure and colour anomalies that can occur at the top and bottom of images shot at high shutter speeds, as well as exposure and colour inconsistency between continuous shots. You can take images under indoor lighting with confidence.

Hybrid Phase Detection AF System

99 II has an AF sensor with 79-point phase-detection and an image sensor with the world's largest array of 399 focal-plane phase-detection AF points. Sony's original Translucent Mirror Technology allows light to reach the dedicated AF sensor and the image sensor simultaneously, so both phase-detection AF systems are always active. The AF algorithm has also been revised to support the Hybrid Phase Detection AF System. Its broad coverage and high density enable higher AF speed and precision as well as notably improved tracking performance.

79 Hybrid Cross points

Discover breakthrough autofocusing and tracking reliability. The Sony Hybrid Phase Detection AF System provides a dedicated AF sensor with phase-detection AF points (79 including 15 cross points) for horizontal detection. This AF point area is entirely covered by the 399-point focal-plane phase-detection AF sensor for vertical detection, so all 79 AF points can function as selectable Hybrid Cross points. By spreading points densely over an area and fine-tuning the balance between responsiveness and stability, Sony optimizes subject tracking to stay locked on almost any type of subject without being affected by subject patterns. Moreover, the very central AF point also functions as an F2.8-sensitive sensor that supports lenses as bright as a minimum F-value of 2.8 or lower.

Precision AF effective down to EV-4 brightness

Low-light AF detection down to EV-4 (central focus point) has been achieved. The precision AF system will function properly even when shooting dimly lit scenes at high ISO. This opens dramatic new possibilities in low-light and night shooting.

Body-integrated 5-axis image stabilization

This all-direction stabilization system is fine-tuned for high-resolution image sensors to compensate accurately for five types of camera shake that can compromise handheld shooting of 99 II 42.4MP images. Designed for A-mount models, the body-integrated system offers extremely high performance in both stills and movies, whether you're shooting at longer focal lengths, in close-ups, or at night. Real-time effects can be monitored via live view. Camera shake compensation is equivalent to using a 4.5-step faster shutter speed, allowing you to take advantage of a wider range of shutter speeds. 1: Yaw 2: Roll 3: Pitch

8% smaller than the 99, with improved ergonomics

99 II flagship is truly born anew – renewed inside and outside. For instance, it's 8% smaller than the original 99, with a redesigned, more compact image stabilization system and other enhancements that reflect an overall revision and rethink of the body's layout and construction. It also has a refined grip and numerous upgrades for improved hold, optimized operation, and more manageable dimensions. You'll enjoy new ergonomics in shooting action.

Support for 14-bit RAW format

For RAW recording, 14-bit RAW output and 16-bit image processing help preserve maximum detail and produce images of the highest quality with rich tonal gradations. The 14-bit RAW (Sony ARW) format ensures optimal quality for later image adjustment (via Image Data Converter or other software). 1: Image Sensor 2: Newly developed high-speed front-end LSI 3: 16-bit image processing

Focus/release priority setup for AF-C/AF-S

Focus or release priority can be independently set for the AF-S (Single-shot AF) and AF-C (Continuous AF) modes. Moreover, additional Balance setting provides the best balance between focus and release priority available for the AF-C mode. Optimum focus/release operation can be selected for the scene being shot, so you have the best focus for your shooting needs.

Expand Flexible Spot

Using the Expand Flexible Spot function, adjacent focus points will be automatically selected if the subject moves away from the selected focus point, thus keeping the subject in perfect focus. When the focus mode is set to Expand Flexible Spot or Flexible Spot and you want to quickly select a desired focus area, the number of points used in the focus area can be reduced. You can set Autofocus parameters to either spot area, linking location and size to the focus area.

Eye AF

99 II brings you Eye AF to capture intriguing facial expressions. It automatically focuses on and even tracks focus on a subject's eye, as the face moves or turns to the side, extending your freedom to frame a great shot.

Tough magnesium alloy body

Designed for solid reliability and steady handling, the camera body is built to withstand the rigours of shooting in the field. Its internal structure and top, front, and rear covers are all made of strong, rigid magnesium alloy.

Reliable dust and moisture resistant design

Enjoy carefree shooting in tough environments, with comprehensive dust and moisture resistance measures that help prevent water and dust from entering the body. These measures include sealing around the buttons and dials, as well as media jack cover and enclosure edges featuring tongue-and-groove joints for double protection to tightly interlock panels and components.

Anti-dust measure keeps off dust and dirt

A special coating prevents dust and dirt from settling on the image sensor surface where it can become difficult to remove through changes in humidity and temperature, while at the same time making settled dust easier to remove.

Assignable Front Multi Controller

You can see how the camera has evolved by looking at one of its convenient control features. Now, the Silent Multi Controller introduced in the original 99 not only allows any one of assigned settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO, exposure compensation, AF area, AF mode, and other settings for stills and movies), but also features a click-stop ON/OFF switch. When ON, the preferred setting for stills, the control clicks as it is operated, providing a tactile indication of how far it has been rotated. When OFF, the control turns smoothly and quietly, which is the preferred mode for movie recording.

Selectable storage for remote shooting

Choose convenient selectable still image data storage destinations for remote shooting. While your camera is still tethered to a computer in remote camera control, you can choose whether still images are stored in the camera as well as on the computer so they can be checked visually without having to leave the camera position. You also have selectable storage format in RAW J mode. You can transfer only JPEG files to the computer, rather than transferring both JPEG and RAW files to reduce data volume, allowing you to check transferred images almost immediately.

Location data acquisition via Bluetooth

Use Location Information Link to make the most of your camera anywhere you go together. After the camera has been paired to the PlayMemories Mobile app installed on a compatible mobile phone or tablet device, it can acquire location data from the mobile device and record that data with still images. The acquired location data can also be used to correct the camera's date/time and location settings. The PlayMemories Home application can then be utilized on a personal computer to organize still images imported into the computer on a map.

New Highlight and Average metering modes

In addition to the existing multi, centre weighted, and spot metering modes, the 99 II features a Highlight mode that detects the brightest area in the frame to avoid blown highlights, and an Average mode that can provide stable auto exposure through composition changes.

Exposure Standard Adjustment

The standard exposure value can be adjusted from -1 to 1 stop in 1/6-stop increments. This setting can be made separately for each metering mode. These minute changes can make a significant difference in capturing and creating memorable images.

Priority Set in AWB

When white balance is set to Auto and incandescent lamps or similar are the light source, the colour tone priority can be set to [Standard], [Ambience], or [White]. [Ambience] produces a warm tone, while [White] priority produces accurate white reproduction.

ISO auto minimum shutter speed

Prevent blur in a shot of a moving subject by setting a shutter speed at which ISO sensitivity starts changing when ISO AUTO (while in P or A mode) is selected.

Custom button assignments for instant function recall

Set up your camera for peak performance and instant ability to capture unique moments. Custom button assignments let you customize the camera interface to perfectly match your individual shooting preferences. The AEL button, ISO button, AF/MF button, custom key, and preview button can all be reassigned to select functions of your choosing. Up to 65 functions can be assigned, including "APS-C/Super 35 mm" and "Live View," so that commonly used functions are just a button press away.

Higher-resolution 4K movie recording

Thanks to full pixel readout without pixel binning, 4K movie recording in the Super 35 mm format exhibits more detail-rich superior clarity than typical 4K movies since Super 35 mm collects approximately 1.8 times as much information as needed for 4K movie output. Also, the XAVC S format allows 4K recording at maximum bitrate of 100Mbps to capture fine details of movement in movies.

S-Gamut and S-Log shooting

S-Gamut and S-Log shooting give you flexibility to make more expressive movies by performing colour grading in post-production. S-Log3 and S-Log2 gamma curves feature wide dynamic range (up to 1300%) to minimize blown highlights and black crush. 99 II even offers impressive 14-stop latitude in S-Log3 gamma setting, and also supports S-Gamut, S-Gamut3, and S-Gamut3.Cine colour space from Sony.

Slow and quick motion

Varying the pace of movie footage enhances viewing interest and enjoyment. New "S&Q" mode supports slow motion and quick motion effects, with frame rates from 1fps to 120fps (100fps) selectable in eight steps for up to 60x (50x) quick motion and 5x (4x) slow motion, recordable at full-HD (50Mbps) quality. You can "play with time" by compressing the movement of the sun and clouds into a short sequence or extending a peaceful moment to give it a greater sense of relaxation. Then accent ordinary footage with these interludes to add comic or dramatic emphasis.

Movie functions for a professional workflow

Whether you're a commercial photographer or an advanced enthusiast, 99 II is ready to show professional performance. Numerous features aimed specifically at pro movie production workflow are included. In addition to features in the previous model, such as picture profiles, time code, and clean HDMI output, this model also offers gamma assist for real-time S-Log monitoring, a zebra mode for easier exposure adjustment, and other evolved functions that provide solid support for expert movie production.

Clean HDMI output

Take advantage of 4K and Full HD support for uncompressed movie output to an external recorder or monitor. The image can also be recorded in the camera even while signals are output using this function. The included cable protector guards jacks and prevents cables from disengaging accidentally, so you can shoot with greater assurance.

Works with iMovie and Final Cut Pro X

This product is compatible with Final Cut Pro X and iMovie.

New Imaging Edge software suite from Sony

Imaging Edge app suite can maximize image quality, improve production efficiency and help you finely adjust RAW-based images. Use its Remote app to remotely control shooting while monitoring scenes via live-view PC screen, Edit app to develop RAW data into high-quality photos and Viewer app to view, rate and select photos from a list of shots.

Capture One (for Sony)

Capture One Express (for Sony) is a free award-winning image editing software that provides high-end image quality RAW development, easy management of your image files, and powerful editing tools. Capture One Pro (for Sony) can be bought for even more editing tools and tethered shooting capability.