Testing out the Sony a7r4 camera

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular polarizer filter

Well, I finally upgraded my camera. It took a few weeks of research and comparison shopping to decide which new camera body to get.

I knew I would be sticking with the Sony Alpha series. I love the system and can use my existing lenses. But man oh man, the overwhelm of upgrading your camera body is tiring. There are so many models that are similar in name, but are engineered for different specialties. And, of course, cost is always a consideration.

After hours of scrolling, pixel peeping, watching Youtube reviews, looking at comparison charts, pricing and more I decided that the Sony a7r4 was the next best jump for me.

I found one on sale at London Drugs, spoke with my husband and got the green light to go ahead and place the order.

Here are some images of my first time testing out the Sony a7r4 with it along with the Sigma 100-400mm contemporary lens.

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular polarizer filter

This is a scene I drive by often and the light was too perfect to miss grabbing a shot. Without hesitation I cranked the wheel, pulled my car to an abrupt stop on a grassy shoulder, flashed my hazard lights and ran to grab a few shots.

I love how the golden light spans the grassy knoll and baron brush. The sparse tree branches appear to glisten in the warm afternoon light. I especially love how the light created a beautiful layered contrast between the main subject, the midline trees and the evergreen backdrop. In the absence of this warming light those trees are plain, flat and listless.

Here is the rest of the field to the left of the above image.

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular polarizer filter

As I was taking the above images I heard the hollow chime of cow bells and distant maa's and bah's. To my delight in the field to the left of the above was this charming countryside scene.

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular Polarizer

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular Polarizer

These goats and sheep knew I was there, hundreds of feet away, but they knew.

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular Polarizer

I ran some errands and then headed down to Elliots Beach park. I figured the sun would be in just the right spot... and it was.

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular Polarizer

Honestly, are there any trees as cool as the gnarly Arbutus? I'm sure i'm biased, but I think not. As the sun faded behind the rolling mountainside I grabbed some detail shots to give a sense of the shoreline.

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular Polarizer

The Eastern coast of Vancouver Islands beaches are covered in one or combinations of weathered rocks, stones, seashells and grasses. Rarely will you see a purely sandy beach. Though, Tofino on the Western side of the Island, known for its long stretches of sandy beaches are on my list of places to visit soon!

Shot on Sony a7r4 with Sigma 100-400mm lens and Nisi Circular Polarizer

All in all a successful little outing. I'm not sure if a new camera will make me any better of a photographer, but I do know I am definitely inspired to shoot which is really what it's all about. The act of creating, no matter what your tool(s), is a mindfulness practice that we can all benefit from.

Until next time, happy creating!

Christie