Kit #11: Big Sensor Sharpness
Total cost: £3,506
Camera: Sony Alpha A7C (£1,699)
The little Sony Alpha A7C is one of the smallest full-frame mirrorless cameras you can buy (only Sigma’s fp series has it beat) and is a compelling choice for travel photography.
In look and feel, it shares a surprising amount of DNA with Sony’s APS-C A6000 series, but don’t be fooled – this is a full-frame camera through and through, and it produces gorgeous results in low light. The Sony A7C was packaged with a rather pedestrian kit lens that we will absolutely not be pairing it with; instead, we’ve chosen a few high-end primes with large maximum apertures, meaning you’ll also be able to explore the other big advantage of full-frame – shallow depth of field.
Ergonomically, the Sony A7C is not the most inspiring camera we’ve ever tested. However, as long as the costs of the others in the series continue to climb – and they will – this relatively cheap jumping-on point for full-frame is going to have a place among light-travelling photographers who are after top-end image quality.
Lens: Sony FE 24mm F2.8 G (£629)
Pleasingly compact, and lightweight at just a slender 162g, this lens is a stalwart wide prime for A7C users. It’s comfortable to use, delivers impressive sharpness right across the edges of the frame, and the autofocus system is powered by two linear motors, for extra speed and precision.
Lens: Sony FE 40mm F2.5 G (£629)
This lens is essentially the same deal as the 24mm, just in a slightly longer focal length, meaning they make for a solid pair. It’s also got those twin linear motors and a pleasingly wide maximum aperture. It only weighs 10g more than the 24mm, meaning it won’t significantly alter the balance of the camera.
Lens: Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary (£549)
You can maybe consider this an optional bonus if you don’t think you’ll need a telephoto. However, we love this Sigma Contemporary lens for its beautiful balance, its premium finish and its sophisticated internal optical path that deliver excellent sharpness. Also, its minimum focusing distance is just 50cm, so don’t be afraid to get in close.