Hello, I am new to this forum, and even to Sony. I recently bought a sony a7cr which has incredible resolution, however I do not manage to get sharp pictures, which often look worst than with my old M4/3 camera. I would like to get an advice whether this could be due to:

• the lens, I currently use the Sony FE 4-5.6 / 28-60

• the autofocus, which I still struggle to master

• the .jpg treatment of the camera (I haven't touched the default parameters so far)

• the very high resolution which requires better technicity (which?)

Thanks a lot in advance for your help, I attach a few pictures.

First picture :

Second picture :

Well, as much as I hate to tell you this, that kit lens isn't known for being a very good option. It's really going to show its weaknesses on a camera with that much resolution.

Second, again with the resolution, shoot a faster shutter when possible, especially on those distance shots. 61MP isn't very forgiving.

I don't understand the 1920 x 1080. Are you shooting in that resolution? That's a crop down to 2 MP. Are you sure the camera is set up properly? It looks like you're shooting in 1080P video mode. Shoot in the native 3:2 FF to start with.

What aperture are you shooting? Is that what 'ima' is? If so, you're hitting diffraction on that lens, which is going to soften things up.

Last: Is this a used camera or new? if it's used, have you done a factory reset to remove any old parameters and settings the previous user programmed? You should always start with a factory rest on a used camera.

As an aside, I can see dust on the sensor. You should clean it.

Don't be discouraged, it sometimes takes me months to get the most out of a new camera, due to all the settings and variations.

Edited December 29, 2025Dec 29 by Cameratose

Thanks a lot for your help!

• lens: it is not really a kit lens as far as I know, and this camera is sold new without any lens. But I understand your point of course, I was suspecting that... do you have any recommendation of a standard zoom lens of higher optics quality for this camera?

• shutter speed: thanks for the tip, because I shot with the "steady shot" option on, I thought velocities of 1/160 were enough, but I will start with faster to get used to the camera (indeed seems better, see below)

• resolution: so, I checked, indeed this cropping is an option that I sometimes on/off in one click, without noticing, but actually I checked and the 1080*1920p is simply because I imported the pictures on my phone via Creator's App, I think it will be back to the higher resolution if I transfer them directly from the memory card (indeed, see below)

• aperture: yes, that was aperture, f/13 and f/18 in the above examples, I have read that I may want to start with constant aperture f/8 to get used to the new camera so I will do that now

• new or used: it's a used camera ( < 1000 shutter counts and no video when bought second-hand) and I indeed have reset all settings to default before using it

• dust: you're right, I spotted that too, I will clean it!

Let me add one point you have not mentionned: focus. I am definitely still a beginner in Sony's autofocus, but you do not seem to think that this is the main issue, right?

Update: today I practiced a bit with high shutter speed (> 1/250) and constant aperture (f/8), I am attaching another picture here, in case you would like to compare. I think it is quite better already indeed (check this link to download it in high quality 6240*3512: https://we.tl/t-hsuKnUpCO6 ).

What do you think?

Any other recommendations from other Sony users?

Thanks again!

1 hour ago, lucaspi said:

Thanks a lot for your help!

• lens: it is not really a kit lens as far as I know, and this camera is sold new without any lens. But I understand your point of course, I was suspecting that... do you have any recommendation of a standard zoom lens of higher optics quality for this camera?

• shutter speed: thanks for the tip, because I shot with the "steady shot" option on, I thought velocities of 1/160 were enough, but I will start with faster to get used to the camera (indeed seems better, see below)

• resolution: so, I checked, indeed this cropping is an option that I sometimes on/off in one click, without noticing, but actually I checked and the 1080*1920p is simply because I imported the pictures on my phone via Creator's App, I think it will be back to the higher resolution if I transfer them directly from the memory card (indeed, see below)

• aperture: yes, that was aperture, f/13 and f/18 in the above examples, I have read that I may want to start with constant aperture f/8 to get used to the new camera so I will do that now

• new or used: it's a used camera ( < 1000 shutter counts and no video when bought second-hand) and I indeed have reset all settings to default before using it

• dust: you're right, I spotted that too, I will clean it!

Let me add one point you have not mentionned: focus. I am definitely still a beginner in Sony's autofocus, but you do not seem to think that this is the main issue, right?

Update: today I practiced a bit with high shutter speed (> 1/250) and constant aperture (f/8), I am attaching another picture here, in case you would like to compare. I think it is quite better already indeed (check this link to download it in high quality 6240*3512: https://we.tl/t-hsuKnUpCO6 ).

What do you think?

Any other recommendations from other Sony users?

Thanks again!

Lens: That is indeed a kit lens. The camera can be purchased by itself or with that lens. Sony sells it with several cameras. Any of the 28-70, 28-75, 24-70 etc. would be a vast improvement. I use Tamron/Sigma/Samyang extensively, along with Sony. If you want a decent lens with a wide range, the 24-105/4 is hard to beat.

Steady shot will help, and for the focal length you have the shutter speeds you used it should be good enough, but faster is better when learning the camera.

If you're trying to show us a problem, you need to upload as clean as possible. When you uploaded at 1080 you downscaled the image. Also be aware that almost all forums downscale for posting. If you really want to show us an example, upload to a site like Flickr Pro and post a link.

Aperture: You should spend some learning about diffraction and where it affects certain lenses. Every lens has a sweet spot in aperture, you can find out where it is for your lens by looking at reviews.

No comment on the last two bullet points, you're on the right track. Make sure though you used the factory reset option in the tools menu.

RE Autofocus: Sony's AF is second to none. It is almost stupid-proof. AF is not the problem in those images, it's a combination of the other things. And yes, I agree the last image you posted is a marked improvement.

Just a note: the first photo you have posted is overexposed and the second is underexposed. You need to keep an eye on this also. It seems to me that you are using some weird settings.

The third photo is fine.

The first two photos are at f/18 and f/13 which on the high resolution sensor will see diffraction levels that will decrease sharpness. The other issue is being more than a stop off on your exposure on those two photos. With these photos being drastically downsized it may be a problem in the software you are using to downsize as well.

How sharp is the human being and the trees in the foreground of your first picture once viewed on your computer ?

How sharp are the tree branches in the foreground of your second picture once viewed on your computer ?

A couple of points:

1. Make sure your focus point is where you think it is. On my recently acquired A7C II, my nose was moving the focus point around unpredictably, leading to a lot of OOF photos on a shoot. Next time you go out with the camera, keep it centred, keep the screen flipped in, then focus and re-compose.

2. If you've never cleaned your camera's sensor, do not overreact to someone telling you there's dust on your sensor on an internet forum! It's very easy to fix in post if it's just a couple of spots. Moreover, if you've not done sensor cleaning before, you could cause damage not covered by the guarantee.

I can't comment on whatever lens you're using. Unless it's the original 28-70 (worst lens I've ever had), it shouldn't be too bad. Unless faulty.

You really need to download the manual and read it -- at least three times. Your cameras settings are all wrong -- if you want the best results. You can get great results with that lens if your settings are set correctly -- and each shot may require different settings. For example, you get better results with lower ISO, faster shutter speeds, and higher resolution settings. Don't expect the camera to do everything for you automatically. That's why you need to read the manual at SONY.COM

From what you tell about yourself and the results you are presenting, I strongly recommend that for taking photos you use the green "I" mode. You should shoot high-quality JPG files, concentrate on framing the image in the camera, and then keep it as steady as you can.
The manual is in black and white, and the print is small. You could instead download Mark Galer's e-book about your camera to learn initial settings and basics of photography. You can find him on YouTube and Patreon. A civilized gentleman.
Switch to green mode for starters. See what it is and what it gives.

Edited Thursday at 09:31 AM4 days by martti_s

1 hour ago, martti_s said:

From what you tell about yourself and the results you are presenting, I strongly recommend that for taking photos you use the green "I" mode. You should shoot high-quality JPG files, concentrate on framing the image in the camera, and then keep it as steady as you can.
The manual is in black and white, and the print is small. You could instead download Mark Galer's e-book about your camera to learn initial settings and basics of photography. You can find him on YouTube and Patreon. A civilized gentleman.
Switch to green mode for starters. See what it is and what it gives.

I have to disagree with this. You learn from your mistakes. You have already learnt stuff here. You won't learn anything by setting your Mode Dial to Green Auto. Keep shooting in Raw. I generally use Raw + Jpeg, mainly as a backup. Keep experimenting with different settings. Find the Sony Online Manual for your camera and save a bookmark in your browser.

I can, however, recommend Mark Galer's e-books. But you might just find some of his more Sony wide videos on YouTube to be just as informative. Even some of the olde ones.

Learn how to use Zebras - one of the best features of Sony cameras - you can get a perfect exposure every time. Mark Galer has at least one video on this. You have a great camera. I have an A7R5 so I know what results your camera is capable of. Keep working on it and don't give up.

Agree that the camera manual isn't going to get the OP where they want to be. Learning photography basics like the exposure triangle and how each setting affects the outcome is key. Personally, I find Galer unwatchable but each to their own. I would suggest any video on photography basics from a reputable source, of which there are dozens to choose from, would be a good place to start.

12 hours ago, Cameratose said:

I find Galer unwatchable but each to their own.

He certainly seems to be a bit of a polarising character, that's for sure. People either love him or hate him. I can put up with him for a while. His instructional videos are pretty good because he doesn't rush through at a million miles an hour like some. I find loads of photography YouTubers to be annoying.

Here is a link to the Zebras video:

Zebra 109+ for Sony Raw Photographers

Edited Friday at 01:30 AM3 days by Richard A

There are lots of ways and places where you can learn the basics of photography, but in the end you have to apply that knowledge to an actual camera. The only way to apply that knowledge is to read and understand how the camera operates -- AKA, reading the user manual. Better yet, memorizing it. I can give my camera to a very seasoned photographer with decades of experience, but he/she's not going to know how to apply that knowledge without knowing how my camera works. I've been handed cameras by other photographers, and I'm clueless as to how to operate them.

In the end, to get the best results, the OP needs to read the manual.

Reading how to set the camera up does no good if you have no idea what the end goal is. When you watch tutorials, you will be told to implement certain settings. For that, a new user may need to open the manual. One learns by doing.

Suggesting that someone memorize the manual before they even know how it all comes together is excessive. My cameras have layers and layers of menu items, many of which I'll never use. Do you know anyone that uses every feature of their camera? Or MS Word or Excel? How about processing and editing software? Their dishwasher? Why memorize things you'll never use?

I can guarantee that having never seen or held one of your cameras I'll be operating it within 5 minutes of you handing it to me, no problem. DSLR, SLR, Mirrorless, TLR, pick one. Does that mean I'll know where every feature is? No. But I'd be able to make nice images with it without question.

Hello, Richard.
You made numerous points I do not agree with.
As if...

2 hours ago, martti_s said:

Hello, Richard.
You made numerous points I do not agree with.
As if...

It's a discussion forum, so support your position. Butthurt is not a position.

You seem to give relevant info to people on this site.
It is nice of you to make the effort. I appreciate it.

1 hour ago, martti_s said:

You seem to give relevant info to people on this site.
It is nice of you to make the effort. I appreciate it.

It'd be better with more participation, whether in agreement or not.

15 hours ago, Cameratose said:

Suggesting that someone memorize the manual before they even know how it all comes together is excessive.

I'm glad you mentioned "excessive" -- like taking what I wrote out of context. I never recommended memorizing the camera manual. I recommended reading it. It's better if you can memorize it, but most manuals I've seen have a "QUICK START" section -- just a couple of pages -- that I would recommend memorizing.

I wish I could memorize my camera manuals because there are times when I can't recall how to make a particular setting -- even though my camera can do it. I've saved my major settings that I use in the camera's memory -- but in order to do that I had to read the manual.

Edited Saturday at 02:17 PM1 day by XKAES

No dice. Arguing semantics is a losing position.

On 1/2/2026 at 12:05 PM, XKAES said:

AKA, reading the user manual. Better yet, memorizing it.

I look up what I need to when I need it, then once I do I know where it is. If I tried to memorize or even read the entire thing I'd never retain it, and no one would, except for maybe things they were already semi-familiar with.

My impression is that people who have something relevant to say about the subject of photography have already said it.
In my mind, photography is first about learning to see, then learning to express what you feel you saw.
The modern instruments take care of the technical aspects to a point.
Getting past that point takes time and practice, but mostly vision.
What is color space? What is the depth of field or a hyperfocal distance? How do you freeze movement? How do you use motion blur?
Why are my pictures too dark/washed out? What does the ± knob do? How should ISO be chosen and set?
Why would you use lossless RAW or choose .jpeg instead? Why would you carry a tripod?
If you have a fast lens, do you have to shoot full open? Is manual focusing superior, or do you just feel that way?

All these questions have been asked and answered hundreds of times on the enthusiast photo sites.
When I see a person who clearly has no clue, I try to guide him to the basics: Find your shot, frame it, and do not move while pressing the trigger.
The green mode will take care of the rest until you are ready to advance.
Framing is composing, teaching the eye to see, the essential.

a7RV + 24-75 F/2.8

Edited yesterday at 07:10 AM1 day by martti_s
Noticed a typo.

7 hours ago, martti_s said:

The green mode will take care of the rest until you are ready to advance.

Apparently it didn't for lucaspi, the OP. That's why I asked if s/he had read the camera manual. Seems like a simple question, but apparently it's inappropriate in the minds of a few.