![Shooting with the a7 III in the desert.](https://sonymirrorlesspro.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/a7iii674-1160x504.jpg)
Photographers should expect more from their cameras and Sony’s basic model, the a7II, refers to what they can get for $2000. After the launch, I experienced the a7 III hands on at studio and in the desert. I can tell you that after 3 days with the a7 III it exceeded my expectations.
It also leaves more money in my pocket for lenses.
Here’s another example, like the one I wrote about for Digital Photo Pro. Looking for something interesting to shoot, walking around the Nellis Sand Dunes, I saw a model appear on the crest of a dune.
She was posing and jumping and I got this frame after pointing the lens at her and pressing the shutter release button and couple times. The sharpness is incredible and that’s right out of the camera.
![Suddenly a model appeared](https://sonymirrorlesspro.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/LRG_DSC01443.jpeg)
There was no setup for that shot. No clicking sound either because silent shutter mode was on. It felt like I was walking onto the set of a sequel or prequel to Road Warrior. I took this frame too while jets scrambled above from a nearby airfare base.
![a7 III capturing dune buggies](https://sonymirrorlesspro.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/a7iii677.jpg)
The a7 III is a lot of camera for the money and redefines what to expect from the basic model. On a budget and considering a mirrorless upgrade, there’s just no other comparable body from any manufacturer.
The Sony a7 III will ship this April for about $2000 US for the body and $2200 in a kit with the FE 28‑70 mm F3.5‑5.6 kit lens. It’s not listed yet on Amazon but will show up soon.
The a7 III body weighs 23.7. The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM Lens is another 24 for a total of 3 pounds. A DSLR system would require twice that weight if not more to get the shot you’d want like this.
![Lined up and ready to roll.](https://sonymirrorlesspro.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/a7iii679.jpg)
Understanding how disruptive mirrorless technology is, I still come back to the weight being a standout feature. I was a mirrorless early adopter because I travel and ride bicycles and continuously reducing what I pack. There just isn’t a compromise with the a7 III.
![Body and lens weigh 3 pounds.](https://sonymirrorlesspro.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_0269.jpg)
And, it’s the basic model.
…My daily shooter is Sony A1 with a vertical grip and various Sony lenses attached like the FE 20mm F1.8. Find more gear recommendations in our shop. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.