Sony Alpha 7R IV (ILCE-7RM4A/B) Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Sony Alpha 7R IV (ILCE-7RM4A/B) is a high-resolution full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera designed for professional and advanced enthusiast photographers. It features a 61MP back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor, offering exceptional detail and dynamic range. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your camera.

What's in the Box

• Sony Alpha 7R IV Camera Body
• Rechargeable Battery (NP-FZ100)
• AC Adaptor
• Power Cord
• Shoulder Strap
• Body Cap
• Accessory Shoe Cap
• Eyepiece Cup
• USB-C Cable

This image displays the front of the Sony Alpha 7R IV camera, highlighting its E-mount for interchangeable lenses and the robust build quality.

2. Initial Setup

2.1 Charging the Battery

Insert the supplied NP-FZ100 rechargeable battery into the battery charger. Connect the charger to a power outlet using the AC adaptor and power cord. The charging indicator will illuminate during charging and turn off when complete. Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.

This image shows the camera connected to a power source, illustrating the charging process. A battery grip is attached, which can extend battery life and provide additional controls.

2.2 Inserting a Memory Card

The camera supports dual SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slots, compatible with UHS-II for high-speed data transfer. Open the memory card slot cover on the side of the camera. Insert the memory card(s) with the label facing the front of the camera until it clicks into place. Close the cover securely.

2.3 Attaching a Lens

Align the white index mark on the lens with the white index mark on the camera's lens mount. Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place. To remove, press the lens release button and rotate the lens counter-clockwise.

3. Camera Components and Controls

3.1 Rear Panel Overview

The rear panel features the electronic viewfinder, tilting LCD screen, and various control buttons and dials for quick access to settings.

This image provides a clear view of the camera's rear, detailing the electronic viewfinder, the tilting LCD screen, and the arrangement of control buttons such as MENU, AF-ON, AEL, Fn, DISP, ISO, and custom buttons (C1, C2, C3, C4).

3.2 Top Panel Overview

The top panel includes the mode dial, exposure compensation dial, and custom buttons for personalized control.

This image displays the top of the camera, featuring the mode dial (with AUTO, P, A, S, M, S&Q, Movie, 1, 2, 3 settings), power switch, shutter button, and additional custom buttons (C1, C2).

4. Operating the Camera

4.1 Power On/Off

To power on the camera, slide the ON/OFF switch located on the top panel. To power off, slide the switch back to OFF.

4.2 Selecting a Shooting Mode

Rotate the mode dial to select your desired shooting mode: Programmed AE (P), Aperture priority (A), Shutter-speed priority (S), Manual (M), Movie modes, or AUTO (iAuto) for automatic settings.

4.3 Autofocus and Tracking

The Alpha 7R IV features a 567-point phase-detection AF system with Real-time Tracking and Real-time Eye AF for humans, animals, and movies. Half-press the shutter button to activate autofocus. Use the joystick or touchscreen to select focus points or subjects for tracking.

4.4 Continuous Shooting

For capturing fast-moving subjects, select a continuous shooting mode. The camera can achieve up to 10 frames per second with continuous AF/AE tracking.

4.5 Video Recording

Switch the mode dial to Movie mode. Press the dedicated MOVIE button to start and stop recording. The camera supports 4K HDR video recording.

This image illustrates the camera's tilting LCD screen, which can be adjusted for various shooting angles, enhancing flexibility for both photography and videography.

5. Advanced Features

5.1 61MP High-Resolution Sensor

The world's first 61MP full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor delivers unprecedented detail and image quality, allowing for significant cropping flexibility while maintaining high resolution.

5.2 Wide Dynamic Range and High Sensitivity

Experience a 15-stop dynamic range and 14-bit uncompressed RAW output, coupled with an ISO range of 50 to 102,400, ensuring excellent image quality even in challenging lighting conditions.

5.3 5-Axis SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization

The in-body 5-axis image stabilization system effectively compensates for camera shake, providing sharper images and smoother video, even when shooting handheld or with non-stabilized lenses.

6. Memory and Storage

The Sony Alpha 7R IV features two memory card slots, both supporting UHS-II SD cards. This allows for various recording options, including simultaneous recording to both cards for backup, relay recording when one card fills up, or separating still images and video onto different cards.

7. Connectivity

The camera offers multiple connectivity options for data transfer and remote control:

• USB Ports: 1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0 (Type-C) for fast data transfer and charging.
• HDMI Output: Micro-HDMI (Type D) for connecting to external monitors or TVs.
• Wireless: Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote control via smartphone apps and wireless image transfer.
• NFC: Near Field Communication for quick pairing with compatible devices.

This image displays the side of the camera, revealing the various ports available for connectivity, including USB, HDMI, and microphone/headphone jacks (if visible).

8. Maintenance and Care

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Sony Alpha 7R IV, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning the Camera Body: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the camera body. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water or a mild cleaning solution.
• Cleaning the Lens: Use a lens brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth and lens cleaning fluid.
• Sensor Cleaning: Use the camera's built-in sensor cleaning function or a specialized sensor cleaning kit. For persistent issues, consult a professional.
• Storage: Store the camera in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use a desiccant to prevent mold and mildew, especially in humid environments.

9. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your camera, try the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Camera does not power on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Images are blurry: Check your focus mode, shutter speed, and ensure image stabilization is active if shooting handheld.
• Memory card error: Reinsert the memory card, try a different card, or format the card (this will erase all data).
• Overheating: Prolonged video recording or continuous shooting in high temperatures can cause the camera to overheat. Allow it to cool down.

For more detailed troubleshooting or issues not covered here, please refer to the full electronic manual available on the Sony support website or contact Sony customer support.

10. Specifications

11. Warranty and Support

11.1 Manufacturer's Warranty

The Sony Alpha 7R IV comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer's warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For full details on warranty coverage, terms, and conditions, refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Sony support website.

11.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, product inquiries, or service requests, please contact Sony customer support. Visit the official Sony website for contact information, FAQs, and additional resources.