Here are some recommended settings and tips for capturing high-quality 4K footage:
Picture Profile & Creative Style
- S-Cinetone is a great picture profile that gives a filmic look right out of camera. Alternatively, S-Log3 provides the most dynamic range for color grading flexibility in post.
- For creative styles, Standard or Neutral work well. Avoid styles like Vivid that overly saturate colors.
Exposure Settings
- Aperture: Use the sweet spot of your lens, typically around f/4-5.6, for sharpness. Open up more if you need a shallower depth of field.
- Shutter Speed: Follow the 180-degree shutter rule and double your frame rate (e.g. 1/50 for 24fps, 1/120 for 60fps).
- ISO: Keep it at the native ISO 640 when possible. Don't be afraid to raise it in low light, the a7 IV performs well at higher ISOs.
Focus Settings
- Use AF-C focus mode for moving subjects
- Flexible Spot M or Zone focusing areas work well for most scenes
- Face/Eye detection is excellent if shooting people
- Manual focus when critical focus is needed or for tricky subjects that confuse AF
File Format & Record Settings
- XAVC S 4K 4:2:2 10-bit is the highest quality codec
- 24fps or 30fps are standard frame rates. 60fps/120fps are great for slow motion
- Long GOP compression maximizes record time, All-I is easier to edit
Other Tips
- Use an external recorder like the Atomos Ninja V+ to capture ProRes RAW
- Invest in good lenses - they make a bigger difference in image quality than the camera
- Get a cage, external monitor, ND filters to complete your video rig
- Record audio externally (e.g. XLR mic into recorder) for best sound
Those settings and accessories should allow you to get some great looking and sounding footage out of your a7 IV. Experiment with the settings and see what works best for your shooting style and needs.