masashi7069 Speaks | Expanding the World of Photography | SONY α7Ⅳ | Knowledge #265

Cover photo by masashi7069
Stories of creators who love photography and their cameras. A “beloved camera” reflects each individual’s worldview and values. In this feature, we meet masashi7069, a devoted user of the SONY α7 IV.
Starting his journey into photography with the RICOH GR III, he expanded his horizons from capturing starry skies to dynamic subjects, ultimately arriving at his current camera. From a compact, lightweight model to a professional full-frame camera, we delve into the evolution of his gear and his ongoing passion.
SONY α7Ⅳ: Key Features
This mirrorless camera features a back-illuminated full-frame CMOS sensor with approximately 33 megapixels. Equipped with the latest image processing engine, BIONZ XR, it offers significantly improved autofocus accuracy and continuous shooting performance. It supports CFexpress Type A cards, enabling high-speed writing and efficient workflows.
A New Perspective Driven by the Desire for Better Quality
Two years after acquiring my first camera, the GR III, I finally succeeded in capturing the Milky Way—a long-cherished goal.
However, the desire to “capture it even more beautifully” grew, leading me to consider purchasing a full-frame camera.
Having only used prime lenses before, zoom lenses were a completely new experience for me. I’ll never forget the amazement I felt when I first looked through a 70-200mm telephoto lens.

Photo by masashi7069
“This looks interesting.” That pure feeling gently pushed me forward.
Why I Chose It Despite the Weight
SONY offers a wide range of lens options, and among the candidates, it stood out as the most appealing. However, I must admit that when I held it in my hands at the store, the combined weight of the lens and body was daunting.
“It’s heavy,” I thought to myself repeatedly.
But there was one non-negotiable condition for me: continuous shooting.

Photo by masashi7069
Expanding the Realm of Expression
When I finally got my gear, it was the rainy season in Thailand—a challenging time for capturing the Milky Way. So, I decided to visit Perth, Australia, in the Southern Hemisphere.

Photo by masashi7069
Experiencing full-frame photography for the first time, I was amazed by its rendering capabilities. With the SIGMA 14mm F1.4, I further expanded my creative possibilities. Now, I travel across Thailand and abroad to capture the Milky Way.
Capturing the Milky Way with a wide-angle lens feels like being “pulled into the universe.”

Photo by masashi7069
A Companion for Life
In the past, I couldn’t imagine carrying a heavy camera body and three lenses.
But now, I cherish that weight.
Though my gear has become heavier, the world I see has expanded. The SONY α7 IV transformed photography from a “hobby” into a “lifelong companion.”

Photo by masashi7069
There are still so many places I want to visit with my camera. Every shot reveals a new world to me. I look forward to continuing this journey together for a lifetime.

Photo by masashi7069
INFORMATION

Japanese based in Bangkok, Thailand since 2018 / cizucu Certified Creator / Passionate about capturing travel and everyday landscapes. Recently fascinated by starry skies.
cizucu: masashi7069
Instagram: @masashi7069
