NYC In Focus

By Howard Weiss | NYC In Focus

The Sony Alpha 1 II is not just another camera—it’s a groundbreaking tool designed to elevate photography to new heights. Packed with cutting-edge AI features, a powerful 50.1 MP Exmor RS stacked CMOS sensor, and exceptional in-body stabilization, this camera has already created a buzz in the creative community. At NYC In Focus, Pamela Goldstein and I, Howard Weiss, had the pleasure of testing this powerhouse during a recent shoot with the incredibly talented model Rafal Pustelny.

A Model Performance

The Alpha 1 II excelled in capturing Rafals dynamic energy and nuanced expressions. This camera’s ability to track even the subtlest movements was a standout feature during our shoot.

Pamela’s Perspective:

Pamela found the AI-powered subject recognition indispensable for directing Rafal’s movements while maintaining sharp focus on his eyes. “The Real-time Recognition AF locked onto Rafals gaze effortlessly, even as he moved in and out of dramatic lighting setups,” she said.

My Take:

As someone who thrives in unpredictable, fast-paced environments, I was thrilled by the Pre-Capture feature. It allowed me to capture moments just before pressing the shutter—like the perfect ripple in Rafals jacket as he turned in the wind. The 8.5 stops of stabilization ensured that every frame was sharp, even as I adjusted angles and perspectives on the fly.

Unparalleled Versatility

The Alpha 1 II is designed to adapt to various creative styles. For this shoot, we explored both motion and stillness, showcasing Rafal’s versatility as a model.

• Dynamic Portraits: Pamela worked closely with Rafal to create motion-rich portraits, utilizing the blackout-free 30 fps continuous shooting to freeze frames that radiated energy.

• Street-Inspired Shots: were captured the previous day, where I explored the vibrant energy of NYC’s streets. The Sony Alpha 1 II’s AI-driven Auto Recognition mode amazed me with its ability to detect subjects in complex environments. Whether it was distinguishing a pet walker from the buildings or focusing on a playful dog mid-stride, the camera delivered flawless precision and clarity. This feature showcased its unparalleled strength in fast-paced, detail-rich street settings, making it a dream tool for urban photographers.

A Collaborative Vision

Vlad played a pivotal role in this project, as he was the one who brought Rafal into the shoot and helped shape the creative direction of the session. While Vlad focused on guiding Rafal and collaborating on the artistic vision, Pamela and I took the opportunity to test the cutting-edge capabilities of the Alpha 1 II.

The Alpha 1 II’s human pose estimation and dynamic range allowed us to elevate every frame, capturing Rafal’s incredible charisma and versatility. From his dynamic movement to moments of quiet intensity, Rafal brought energy and adaptability that perfectly complemented the camera’s advanced features. This collaboration, paired with the Alpha 1 II’s technology, made the shoot a truly unforgettable experience.

As the only one capturing behind-the-scenes moments, I was able to document the synergy between the team and the magic of the process, offering a glimpse into the creative journey that unfolded during the shoot.

Photo Credit: vpvisuals / NYC In Focus

Photo Credit: Pamela Goldstein / NYC In Focus

Photo Credit: Howard Weiss / NYC In Focus

Photo Credit: Howard Weiss / NYC In Focus

Final Thoughts

The Sony Alpha 1 II is a masterpiece of engineering that delivers on its promise of speed, accuracy, and innovation. From capturing Rafal’s movement to preserving every detail in still moments, this camera adapts seamlessly to any challenge.

Stay tuned for more insights and stunning visuals as we continue to explore the Alpha 1 II’s full potential.