Best Sony Camera For Sports Photography In 2024
Sony’s top cameras for sports photography deliver speed, precision, and reliability when it counts. Fast autofocus, high frame rates, and robust tracking systems are essential for nailing the perfect sports shot. Sony’s lineup includes models that excel in these areas, from pro-level powerhouses to more budget-friendly options.
Sports photography demands gear that can keep up with the action, whether you’re shooting professional athletes or local games. Sony’s mirrorless cameras offer features tailored to meet these challenges. This guide breaks down the best Sony cameras for sports, comparing their performance in real-world scenarios. We’ll help you pick a camera that matches your needs and budget, ensuring you get the sports photos you want.
-
Product on saleSony A9 II Digital Camera Body A9M2 (ILCE-9M2)Original price was: £4,199.00.£3,998.00Current price is: £3,998.00.
1. Sony A9 II – Best for Professional Sports Photography
Key Features:
- Professional-grade build and reliability
- Up to 20 fps blackout-free continuous shooting
- 693-point autofocus system covering 93% of the frame
- Full AF/AE tracking during continuous shooting
Why We Love It: The A9 II is a speed demon designed specifically for capturing split-second action with unparalleled precision and reliability.
Best For: Professional sports photographers who demand the absolute best in speed and autofocus performance.
-
Product on saleSony A7 IV Digital Camera – Body OnlyOriginal price was: £2,400.00.£2,300.00Current price is: £2,300.00.
2. Sony A7 IV – Best All-Round Sports Camera
Key Features:
- Versatile performance for both stills and video
- 33MP full-frame sensor
- Improved autofocus system with real-time tracking
- 10 fps continuous shooting
Why We Love It: The A7 IV strikes an excellent balance between resolution and speed, making it a versatile choice for various sports scenarios.
Best For: Photographers who need a camera that excels in sports but can also handle a wide range of other photography genres.
-
Sony A6700 Mirrorless Camera Body£1,425.00
3. Sony A6700 – Best APS-C Option for Sports
Key Features:
- APS-C sensor for extended reach
- Compact and lightweight body
- Advanced autofocus system
- 11 fps continuous shooting
Why We Love It: The A6700 packs impressive speed and autofocus capabilities into a compact body, perfect for photographers who value portability.
Best For: Sports photographers who prefer a lighter kit or need a capable backup camera, especially for events requiring longer reach.
-
Sony A7R V Digital Camera Body£3,688.00
4. Sony A7R V – Best for High-Resolution Sports Shots
Key Features:
- Exceptional detail and cropping flexibility
- 61MP full-frame sensor
- Up to 10 fps shooting with full AF/AE tracking
- Advanced AI-based autofocus
Why We Love It: The A7R V offers an unmatched combination of high resolution and respectable speed, allowing for incredibly detailed sports images.
Best For: Sports photographers who need to capture every fine detail, especially in sports that don’t require the absolute fastest burst rates.
5. Sony A7C II – Best Compact Full-Frame for Sports
Key Features:
- Portable yet powerful performance
- Compact full-frame body
- 33MP sensor
- Advanced autofocus system
Why We Love It: The A7C II offers full-frame image quality and autofocus performance in a remarkably compact body, perfect for on-the-go sports photography.
Best For: Sports photographers who prioritize mobility and discretion without sacrificing image quality or autofocus capabilities.
Choosing the right Sony camera for sports photography depends on your specific needs and the types of sports you shoot. Consider factors like burst rate, autofocus performance, buffer depth, and ergonomics when making your decision. Full-frame sensors generally offer better low-light performance, which can be crucial for indoor sports or night games.
Remember, the best camera for sports photography is one that allows you to capture the decisive moment consistently. These Sony cameras offer the speed and precision needed to freeze the action, from the serve in a tennis match to the goal in a soccer game.
See our guide on the best Sony lenses for sports photography.
FAQ On Choosing a Sony Camera for Sports Photography
How important is the burst rate for sports photography?
The Burst rate is crucial for capturing fast action in sports. Higher burst rates give you more frames to choose from, increasing the likelihood of capturing the perfect moment.
Should I prioritise autofocus performance or burst rate?
Both are important, but arguably, autofocus performance is more critical. Even the fastest burst rate won’t help if your images are out of focus. Look for cameras with advanced tracking capabilities.
Are Sony’s APS-C cameras suitable for professional sports photography?
While full-frame cameras are often preferred for their superior image quality and low-light performance, Sony’s high-end APS-C cameras like the A6700 can produce excellent results, especially in good lighting conditions.
How significant is buffer depth for sports photography?
Buffer depth is very important, especially for prolonged bursts of action. A larger buffer allows you to shoot for longer periods without the camera slowing down.
Can Sony’s mirrorless cameras keep up with DSLRs for sports photography?
Absolutely. Sony’s latest mirrorless cameras offer autofocus speeds and tracking capabilities that match or exceed those of traditional DSLRs, often with the added benefit of being lighter and more compact.