The Sony Xperia 1 III (read: “One Mark Three”) device is Sony’s latest flagship smartphone. Since I’m a photographer with the Alpha Collective, Sony sent me one to test it out. It’s a beautiful piece of equipment chock full of features for many, from gamers to music lovers, but — full disclosure — I’m a photographer to the core and I’m primarily focused on the camera.
As a photographer, I have preferred the Android OS for a long time. It’s just easier to get my work into and out of the ecosystem. As for my preferred device, I switched to the Xperia brand a few years ago. Since then, it’s been my primary (only) phone that I use. These premium devices are designed for a unique type of person. The new Xperia 1 III phone is no exception. The updated and upgraded features are clearly the result of Sony listening to the feedback of its current user base. Indeed, seeking and listening to their users’ opinions is something I have always admired about Sony.
Sony Xperia 1 III ()
Based on my initial experience with the Xperia 1 III device, I think it’s perfect for you if…
You want high-quality hardware
The camera borrows tech from the top-of-the-line Sony Alpha cameras. Firstly, it has Dual Pixel Autofocus — meaning each pixel has two photodiodes that operate independently. This allows the photographer to pull focus quickly, even with fast-moving subjects. I shoot a fair amount of architecture so where it comes in most handy for me is in low light. Check out the sharp focus in this dimly-lit stairwell.
Secondly, can you also imagine a phone with ZEISS T coating? The Sony Xperia 1 III has it. These lenses are second to none. Plus, the anti-reflective coating lets more light in — which decreases lens flare and increases contrast. This makes for images that are true in color and that pop. Also helping the wow factor: the display is a 6.5-inch 4K HDR 120Hz OLED beauty.
You’re a creator
While it has a point-and-shoot Basic mode, the Sony Xperia 1 III is for the type of photographers who are not usually looking for a basic shot. Additionally, you have options on top of options, and that allows you to realize your vision. Though the auto setting is no slouch, there’s a world of customization waiting in Photography Pro. In earlier versions of the Xperia phones, there were two different icons to access the basic camera and the pro mode. I like that there is a single access point in this new model. It’s streamlined.
Additionally, there is a new feature — Sony introduced four focal lengths: 16mm, 24mm, 70mm, and 105mm. Something the control freak in me also appreciated was that you could step to various focal lengths between these rather than just zooming in. You can also adjust the white balance, the exposure, even shutter speed. That’s what allowed me to get this shot:
Had I let a phone use its auto setting, it would have metered to make sure the person was well lit. Because of the lower light of dusk, the moving person may also have been blurred. With Photography Pro, I was able to adjust the ISO and shutter speed to capture exactly what I wanted: a sharp silhouette perfectly framed by leading lines in front of a vivid sunset.
You’re a purist
When I took photography classes in college, I learned on film and I’ve always had a soft spot for it. With the emphasis on quality components and control for the artist, the Xperia 1 III camera is alluring to those of us who like shooting in RAW. Admittedly, I have seen some great photos taken on other devices. However, they are often a result of average hardware and some slick computational-imaging software. Not so with the Xperia 1 III phone. The Photography Pro app allows a lot of manual settings adjustment and the high-end glass ensures an actually-crispy image, not one that has been enhanced by a program.
Overall, the Sony Xperia 1 III device makes me feel like my switch to the brand was the right one. Each new iteration shows thoughtful updates to the user interface and a commitment to features that are important to serious photographers. I’ll be happily using this as a companion device to my Sony Alpha A1.
The Sony Xperia 1 III is available for pre-order now for at Adorama.
