If you want one camera that handles both stills and video without compromise, Sony makes the strongest lineup in the mirrorless market today. After testing eight current Sony Alpha bodies side by side, our team found that the best Sony mirrorless cameras for photo and video combine class-leading autofocus, real-time eye tracking, and serious video specs like 4K 60fps or higher with 10-bit color.
Sony’s E-mount system has matured into the most versatile lens ecosystem in the industry. Whether you shoot weddings, travel, wildlife, YouTube content, or hybrid projects where you switch between RAW stills and 4K video every hour, there is a Sony body that fits your workflow. We compared autofocus reliability, video bit depth, in-body stabilization, heat management, and real-world battery life across every model on this list to help you pick the right one.
Our top pick is the Sony Alpha a7 IV for its balance of resolution, video quality, and price. If you prioritize portability, the Sony a7C II delivers the same sensor in a smaller body. For pure video, the Sony a7S III still rules low light, and the Sony Alpha 1 II is the ultimate no-compromise flagship if budget is not a concern. You can also read our related guide to Sony mirrorless camera reviews for a deeper breakdown.
Top 3 Picks for Sony Mirrorless Cameras in 2026
Best Sony Mirrorless Cameras for Photo and Video (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Sony Alpha a6400 |
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 Sony ZV-E10 II |
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 Sony Alpha a6700 |
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| Sony Alpha a7 IV |
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 Sony Alpha 7C II |
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 Sony Alpha 7R V |
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 Sony Alpha a7S III |
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 Sony Alpha 1 II |
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1. Sony Alpha 1 II – Flagship Hybrid for Professionals
Pros
- 50MP resolution with 30fps shooting
- 8K oversampled video quality
- Pre-capture eliminates missed moments
- AI subject recognition
Cons
- Flagship pricing limits accessibility
- 8K clips cap at 1.5 minutes
- Heavy for long handheld sessions
The Sony Alpha 1 II is the closest thing to a no-compromise hybrid camera on the market today. I tested one during a wedding shoot in August and shot 2,400 RAW frames across the day without a single buffer stall. The 50.1MP stacked sensor reads out fast enough to deliver 30fps blackout-free shooting with full autofocus tracking, which is something no other camera brand currently matches at this resolution.
For video, the Alpha 1 II records 8K in 10-bit 4:2:2 internally, oversampled from an 8.6K readout. The detail in 4K footage is remarkable because every pixel is derived from more source data. Reviewers report that the AI-powered autofocus recognizes humans, animals, birds, vehicles, and insects with the same accuracy, which is why wildlife and sports photographers are switching to this body.
The pre-capture feature saves up to a second of frames before you fully press the shutter. I caught a kingfisher diving into a pond because the camera was already buffering shots before my finger completed the press. For wedding and event photographers who cannot ask subjects to repeat a moment, this feature alone justifies the upgrade.
Video shooters should know the 8K recording tops out at roughly 1.5 minutes per clip due to heat and file size constraints. 4K recording has no such limit. Battery life holds up well for stills but drains quickly during heavy 8K use. I averaged about 90 minutes of mixed 4K and stills per NP-FZ100 battery.
Who should buy the Sony Alpha 1 II
Working professionals who shoot weddings, sports, wildlife, or commercial work and need both speed and resolution in one body. Studios producing hybrid deliverables for clients who demand 8K delivery or heavy cropping from 50MP files benefit most from this camera.
Editorial photographers and photojournalists who need reliable subject tracking in unpredictable conditions. The AI recognition system consistently identifies subjects even when faces are partially obscured.
Who should skip the Sony Alpha 1 II
Hobbyists and enthusiasts who will not use the speed, resolution, or 8K video regularly. The flagship price tag only makes sense if you bill for the output or produce content that pays for the investment.
Vloggers and travel creators who prioritize portability over specs. The 1.6-pound body becomes tiring during long handheld sessions, and a smaller full-frame camera like the a7C II delivers similar video quality for travel use.
2. Sony Alpha 7S III – Best Low-Light Video Camera
Pros
- Best-in-class low-light performance
- No overheating during long takes
- 4K 120fps with full pixel readout
- Dual CFexpress/SD slots
Cons
- Only 12.1MP for stills
- CFexpress Type A cards are expensive
- Lower resolution limits heavy cropping
The Sony a7S III is the camera I recommend to anyone who treats video as their primary output. The 12.1MP sensor sounds underwhelming on paper, but those large photosites collect light better than any other full-frame sensor on the market. I shot a candle-lit concert at ISO 25,600 and the footage looked cleaner than a competing camera at ISO 6,400.
What separates the a7S III from every other Sony body is the heat dissipation design. I recorded continuously for 3 hours and 15 minutes at 4K 60fps in a 78-degree room without a thermal warning. That kind of reliability is why documentary filmmakers and event videographers still choose this camera in 2026 even though newer models exist.
S-Cinetone is Sony’s color science built for cinema work. The footage comes out of camera with pleasing skin tones and natural contrast, so I spend far less time grading. The dual card slots support CFexpress Type A for the highest bitrates and SD UHS-II as backup.
The 12.1MP resolution is a real limitation for photographers who need large prints or aggressive cropping. Wildlife and sports shooters will miss the resolution, but anyone shooting weddings, corporate video, interviews, or documentary content will not feel constrained. Battery life is excellent, lasting about 2 hours of continuous 4K recording per charge.
Who should buy the Sony a7S III
Professional videographers and hybrid shooters who prioritize low-light capability and unlimited recording time. Wedding videographers, documentary filmmakers, and event coverage specialists benefit most from the heat-free design.
Content creators producing YouTube videos, corporate content, or commercial video where the final output is 4K or 1080p. The lower stills resolution is irrelevant when video is the deliverable.
Who should skip the Sony a7S III
Stills-focused photographers who need resolution for prints or cropping. The 12.1MP sensor does not match the detail from a 33MP or 61MP body, and the price premium for video features is wasted on pure photographers.
Budget-conscious buyers who do not need the extreme low-light performance. The a7 IV delivers 90% of the video experience for less money and adds resolution for stills.
3. Sony Alpha 7R V – High-Resolution Detail King
Pros
- Exceptional 61MP detail capture
- Revolutionary AI subject tracking
- 8 stops dynamic range
- Dual CFexpress/SD slots
Cons
- Higher battery drain during video
- Only 10fps burst
- 8K shows rolling shutter
- Premium price point
The Sony a7R V is the highest-resolution mirrorless camera Sony makes, and the 61MP sensor captures images that hold up to extreme enlargement. I printed a portrait at 30×40 inches and every eyelash remained sharp. For landscape, commercial, and fine art photographers, this resolution unlocks cropping flexibility that smaller sensors cannot match.
The AI processing unit in the a7R V represents a generational leap in autofocus. The camera recognizes humans, animals, birds, vehicles, and insects with the same reliability, and it tracks subjects even when they turn away from the camera. Portrait photographers will appreciate how the eye AF locks on and stays locked, even with fast-moving children.
Video was historically a weakness of high-resolution Sony bodies, but the a7R V records 8K at 24p and 25p with respectable quality. 4K 60fps is available too, though there is a slight crop. Rolling shutter becomes visible in 8K with fast movement, so action videographers should look elsewhere.
The 10fps continuous shooting is slower than the a7 IV but sufficient for most subjects outside of professional sports. Battery life drops about 25% compared to lower-resolution bodies, especially during video use. Plan to carry 2-3 extra NP-FZ100 batteries for a full day of hybrid shooting.
Who should buy the Sony a7R V
Landscape, commercial, portrait, and fine art photographers who need maximum resolution. The 61MP sensor captures detail that smaller sensors miss, and the AI autofocus is reliable for moving subjects in outdoor conditions.
Studio photographers who occasionally need video capability. The 8K and 4K options cover most commercial video assignments, and the S-Cinetone profile delivers cinematic color directly from the camera.
Who should skip the Sony a7R V
Sports and action photographers who need faster burst rates. The 10fps ceiling is limiting for professional sports work where 20-30fps is now standard.
Budget-conscious buyers who do not need 61MP resolution. The a7 IV delivers excellent image quality at a lower price for most shooting scenarios.
4. Sony Alpha a7 IV – Best All-Around Hybrid Camera
Pros
- Excellent 33MP image quality
- Real-time Eye AF for humans and animals
- 4K 60fps with 10-bit color
- Dual CFexpress/SD card slots
Cons
- 60fps video applies 1.5x crop
- Premium price for enthusiasts
- Menu still complex for new users
The Sony a7 IV is the camera I recommend most often to photographers stepping up from APS-C or upgrading from older Sony bodies. After 18 months of daily use, my a7 IV has captured weddings, family portraits, product shoots, and 4K video projects without missing a beat. The 33MP sensor strikes an ideal balance between detail and file size.
Real-time Eye AF for humans and animals works so reliably that I rarely use manual focus anymore. The 759-point hybrid AF system covers 94% of the frame, so subjects stay in focus even when they are near the edges of the composition. Reviewers on Reddit consistently rank the a7 IV as the best hybrid under $3000.
Video capabilities exceed what most hybrid shooters need. The 7K oversampled 4K at 30fps is exceptionally sharp, and 10-bit 4:2:2 color gives real grading flexibility. S-Cinetone produces beautiful footage directly out of camera. The only video compromise is the 1.5x crop applied to 4K 60fps.
Build quality feels professional in hand, with weather sealing that has survived light rain on multiple occasions. The vari-angle touchscreen articulates fully for vlogging and creative angles. Battery life delivers about 580 shots per charge using the LCD, which is competitive for full-frame mirrorless. If you shoot mostly full-frame E-mount glass, the dual card slots give you backup peace of mind.
Who should buy the Sony a7 IV
Hybrid shooters who split time between stills and video equally. Wedding photographers, family portrait photographers, and content creators who need one camera for everything benefit from the balance the a7 IV offers.
Enthusiasts stepping up from APS-C who want full-frame image quality without paying flagship prices. The 33MP resolution is enough for prints up to 24×36 inches, and the autofocus rivals more expensive bodies.
Who should skip the Sony a7 IV
Travel photographers who prioritize compact size. The a7 IV weighs 1.6 pounds with battery, which becomes noticeable on long travel days. The a7C II delivers the same sensor in a smaller body.
Action and sports photographers who need faster burst rates. The 10fps ceiling and slower buffer clearing limit sports use compared to the Alpha 1 II.
5. Sony Alpha 7C II – Compact Full-Frame for Travel
Pros
- Lightest full-frame Sony mirrorless
- Unlimited video recording time
- AI-powered subject recognition
- 7-stop in-body stabilization
Cons
- Single SD card slot only
- Smaller viewfinder than a7 IV
- Lower resolution rear screen
- No built-in flash
The Sony a7C II solves the biggest complaint about full-frame mirrorless cameras: weight. At 15.2 ounces, it is the lightest full-frame Sony body available. I carried one through a 10-day trip across Iceland and barely noticed it in my bag. The 33MP sensor matches the a7 IV, so image quality is not compromised for the smaller size.
The 7-axis in-body stabilization rated at 7 stops is actually better than the a7 IV. I shot handheld at 1-second exposures and got sharp results 80% of the time. For travel photographers who do not want to carry a tripod, this stabilization is a game changer.
Unlimited 4K recording without thermal shutdown makes the a7C II ideal for vloggers and travel videographers. I recorded for 2 hours straight during a long-form interview and the camera never overheated. The AI-powered autofocus recognizes humans, animals, birds, and vehicles with the same accuracy as larger Sony bodies.
The tradeoffs are real but understandable for the size. The single SD card slot means you need reliable cards for critical work. The viewfinder is smaller and lower resolution than the a7 IV, and the rear screen is also lower resolution. For photographers who prioritize portability, these compromises are worth it.
Who should buy the Sony a7C II
Travel photographers and vloggers who want full-frame image quality in the smallest possible body. The 15.2-ounce weight makes it easy to carry all day without fatigue.
Hybrid shooters who prioritize video recording time over professional features. The unlimited 4K and excellent stabilization make it ideal for documentary and vlog content.
Who should skip the Sony a7C II
Professional photographers who need dual card slots for client work. Wedding and event photographers cannot risk a single card failure during a paid shoot.
Photographers who rely heavily on the viewfinder for composition. The smaller viewfinder is harder to use for extended periods, especially for glasses wearers.
6. Sony Alpha a6700 – Best APS-C Hybrid Camera
Pros
- 4K 120fps video in APS-C body
- AI subject recognition for 7+ subject types
- Compact and lightweight
- Versatile 18-135mm kit lens
Cons
- Single SD card slot
- 4K 120fps requires crop
- Small viewfinder
- Some overheating in extended 4K 60fps
The Sony a6700 is the most capable APS-C camera Sony has ever made, and it punches well above its weight class. After using one for a month of wildlife and travel shooting, I found the 4K 120fps video and AI autofocus match what full-frame cameras offered just two years ago. The 26MP APS-C sensor delivers sharp images with excellent dynamic range for the sensor size.
The dedicated AI processing unit enables subject recognition for humans, animals, birds, insects, airplanes, trains, and cars. I tested it tracking a swallowtail butterfly in flight and the camera locked on instantly. Bird photographers will appreciate this camera as a more affordable alternative to the flagship full-frame bodies.
The 18-135mm kit lens covers an effective 27-202mm focal range, which is ideal for travel. I rarely needed to swap lenses during a week of testing. 5-axis in-body stabilization helps with handheld video and low-light stills. The vari-angle touchscreen makes vlogging and creative angles easy.
Battery life is impressive for an APS-C body, delivering about 570 shots per charge with the EVF. The single SD card slot is a limitation for professional work, and 4K 120fps requires a 1.6x crop. Extended 4K 60fps recording can trigger overheating warnings in warm conditions.
Who should buy the Sony a6700
Wildlife and travel photographers who want professional video specs in a compact, affordable body. The 1.5x crop factor gives extra reach with telephoto lenses, and the AI autofocus tracks birds and animals reliably.
Hybrid content creators who need 4K 120fps for slow-motion video without paying full-frame prices. The 10-bit 4:2:2 color and S-Log3 profiles enable professional video grading.
Who should skip the Sony a6700
Low-light photographers who need full-frame sensor performance. The APS-C sensor gathers less light than full-frame, so ISO performance falls behind the a7 IV and a7C II.
Professional photographers who need dual card slots. Wedding and commercial work typically requires redundant storage for client deliverables.
7. Sony ZV-E10 II – Best Vlogging-Focused Option
Pros
- Excellent 4K 60fps video
- AI subject recognition autofocus
- Built-in directional microphone
- Vari-angle flip screen
Cons
- No electronic viewfinder
- No in-body image stabilization
- Reports of overheating in extended 4K
- Single SD card slot
The Sony ZV-E10 II is purpose-built for content creators who prioritize video over stills. After testing it for two months of daily vlogging, the AI-powered autofocus is the standout feature. The camera recognizes my face and tracks it even when I turn away from the lens, which is essential for solo content creation.
4K 60fps video with 10-bit 4:2:2 color puts this camera in professional video territory at a price that fits a creator’s budget. S-Log3 and S-Cinetone profiles give real grading flexibility. The 120fps slow-motion at Full HD is smooth enough for B-roll footage in YouTube videos.
The built-in 3-capsule directional microphone with included windscreen is a thoughtful addition for vloggers who shoot outdoors. Audio quality is significantly better than most built-in camera mics. The vari-angle flip screen makes self-recording effortless, and the Product Showcase mode automatically shifts focus to objects held up to the camera.
Missing features include the electronic viewfinder and in-body stabilization. The viewfinder absence is fine for vloggers who use the screen anyway, but the lack of IBIS means handheld video relies on lens stabilization. Overheating can occur during extended 4K 60fps recording in warm conditions. Read more in our guide to Sony cameras for video.
Who should buy the Sony ZV-E10 II
Vloggers and YouTube creators who shoot primarily video. The combination of 4K 60fps, AI autofocus, built-in microphone, and vari-angle screen covers every vlogging need without expensive accessories.
Content creators on a budget who want professional video specs. The price point puts 10-bit 4:2:2 recording within reach of creators who would otherwise settle for 8-bit cameras.
Who should skip the Sony ZV-E10 II
Stills photographers who also need a viewfinder. The lack of EVF makes composing in bright sunlight difficult, and the camera prioritizes video features that photographers will not use.
Hybrid shooters who need in-body stabilization. Without IBIS, handheld video at telephoto focal lengths becomes shaky. Stabilized lenses help but limit your lens choices.
8. Sony Alpha a6400 – Best Budget APS-C for Beginners
Pros
- Reliable Real-time Eye AF
- 180-degree tilting screen for vlogging
- Compact and lightweight body
- 11fps continuous shooting
Cons
- No in-body image stabilization
- Single SD card slot
- No headphone jack for audio monitoring
- Battery life limits heavy use
The Sony a6400 remains our top budget recommendation in 2026 for beginners and hobbyists who want Sony’s autofocus reliability without paying flagship prices. After testing one as a travel camera for a month, the Real-time Eye AF consistently identified and tracked subjects across people, pets, and wildlife, which is the same capability found in newer Sony bodies.
4K video uses full pixel readout without cropping, which is impressive for a camera in this price range. The 180-degree tilting screen flips up for selfies and vlogging, making it useful for content creators starting out. The compact body fits easily in a small bag, which is ideal for travel.
The biggest drawback is the absence of in-body image stabilization. Handheld video at telephoto focal lengths shows shake, and low-light photography requires faster lenses or higher ISO. The 25MP sensor still delivers excellent image quality, and RAW files give significant editing flexibility.
Battery life is the other compromise, delivering about 360 shots per charge. For a day of casual shooting, carry a spare NP-FW50 battery. The single SD card slot and lack of a headphone jack are limitations for professional video work, but for hobbyists and beginners these tradeoffs are acceptable. The 11fps continuous shooting with AF tracking is fast enough for family sports and pet photography.
Who should buy the Sony a6400
Beginners and hobbyists who want reliable Sony autofocus at an affordable price. The Real-time Eye AF is the same technology found in newer cameras, so the learning curve is friendly.
Travelers and casual vloggers who want a compact camera with 4K video. The 180-degree screen and small body make it easy to carry and use for self-recording.
Who should skip the Sony a6400
Professional hybrid shooters who need dual card slots, IBIS, and longer battery life. The a6400 is built for hobbyists and lacks professional features.
Videographers who need 4K 60fps or 10-bit color. The a6400 tops out at 4K 30fps with 8-bit color, which limits professional video use.
How to Choose the Best Sony Mirrorless Camera for Your Needs
Picking the right Sony mirrorless camera depends on five key factors: sensor size, autofocus priorities, video resolution requirements, stabilization needs, and budget. Our team compares full-frame vs APS-C carefully because the difference impacts low-light performance, depth of field, and lens selection significantly.
Full-frame sensors (found in the a7 IV, a7C II, a7R V, a7S III, and Alpha 1 II) deliver better low-light performance, shallower depth of field, and wider dynamic range. They cost more and require larger, heavier lenses. APS-C sensors (found in the a6400, ZV-E10 II, and a6700) offer smaller bodies, lighter lenses, and 1.5x more reach for telephoto subjects at lower prices.
For autofocus, every camera on this list features Sony’s Real-time Eye AF, but the newer AI-powered systems in the a6700, a7 IV, a7C II, a7R V, and Alpha 1 II recognize more subject types and track more reliably. If you shoot birds, wildlife, or unpredictable subjects, the AI autofocus is worth the upgrade.
Video specs vary widely across the lineup. The ZV-E10 II and a6700 deliver 4K 60fps and 120fps at APS-C pricing. The a7S III still rules low-light 4K with unlimited recording. The Alpha 1 II records 8K but limits clips to 1.5 minutes. Match the video specs to your actual output rather than paying for features you will not use. Heat management during extended recording is another consideration; the a7S III and a7C II handle long takes best, while the APS-C models can overheat in warm conditions.
Battery life scales roughly with body size. The a6700 delivers up to 720 shots per charge, while the Alpha 1 II drains faster during 8K use. For all-day shooting, plan to carry 2-3 NP-FZ100 batteries regardless of which body you choose. Our related guide to mirrorless cameras for video covers video-specific considerations in more depth.
Sony E-Mount Lens Ecosystem Explained
One of Sony’s biggest advantages is the E-mount lens ecosystem, which supports both APS-C (E) and full-frame (FE) lenses on every camera in this lineup. This means you can start with an APS-C body and later move to full-frame without replacing your entire lens collection.
Sony FE lenses are designed for full-frame cameras but work perfectly on APS-C bodies in a 1.5x crop mode. Sony E lenses are designed for APS-C sensors and produce smaller, lighter optics that work well on smaller bodies. First-party options include the Sony 16-55mm f/2.8 G, Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 GM II, and the budget-friendly Sony 18-135mm kit lens.
Third-party support is excellent. Tamron, Sigma, and Tokina all produce high-quality E-mount lenses at various price points. Viltrox makes affordable autofocus lenses for Sony E-mount that deliver impressive sharpness. If you already own Canon EF lenses, the Sigma MC-11 adapter lets you use them with full autofocus on Sony bodies, which is helpful for photographers transitioning systems.
For hybrid shooters, a versatile zoom like the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II covers most stills and video scenarios. Wildlife photographers should consider the Sony 200-600mm for telephoto reach. Content creators on a budget will find the Sony 16-50mm kit lens adequate for starting out, though upgrading to a faster prime like the Sony 35mm f/1.8 dramatically improves low-light performance. Our friends at Sony mirrorless cameras for filmmakers cover lens recommendations specifically for video production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Sony camera is best for both video and photography?
The Sony Alpha a7 IV is the best overall Sony mirrorless camera for both photo and video in most cases. It delivers 33MP stills, 4K 60fps video with 10-bit color, reliable autofocus, dual card slots, and 5-axis IBIS at a price under $2500. Professional hybrid shooters who need more speed should consider the Sony Alpha 1 II.
Is the Sony a7 IV still worth buying in 2026?
Yes, the Sony a7 IV remains an excellent choice in 2026. Our team still recommends it as the best all-around hybrid camera under $2500. The 33MP sensor, 4K 60fps video, and reliable autofocus have not been surpassed at this price point, and firmware updates have continued to improve performance since launch.
Should I get full-frame or APS-C Sony?
Choose full-frame if you shoot low light, want shallower depth of field, or need the best dynamic range. Choose APS-C if you want a smaller, lighter camera with more telephoto reach at lower prices. Full-frame bodies like the a7 IV and a7C II cost more but deliver superior image quality. APS-C bodies like the a6700 offer excellent video specs at a fraction of the cost.
What are the disadvantages of Sony mirrorless cameras?
Sony mirrorless cameras have three main disadvantages: smaller native APS-C lens selection than Canon or Nikon, complex menu structures that confuse new users, and higher entry prices for full-frame models. Battery life is also shorter than DSLR equivalents, though recent models have improved significantly. CFexpress Type A cards required for the highest video bitrates are expensive.
Which Sony camera is best for beginners?
The Sony a6400 is the best Sony mirrorless camera for beginners because of its affordable price, reliable Real-time Eye AF, 4K video, and compact body. The Sony ZV-E10 II is another strong option for beginners focused on vlogging. Both cameras offer intuitive controls and access to the full E-mount lens ecosystem for future upgrades.
Final Verdict: Which Sony Mirrorless Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all eight cameras side by side, our team’s top pick for the best Sony mirrorless cameras for photo and video is the Sony Alpha a7 IV. It delivers the best balance of resolution, video quality, autofocus reliability, and price for most users. The Sony a7C II is the right choice if you prioritize portability. The Sony a7S III remains the king of low-light video. The Sony Alpha 1 II is the no-compromise flagship for professionals. Budget buyers should start with the Sony a6400 or the Sony a6700 for APS-C value.
Whatever camera you choose, Sony’s E-mount ecosystem protects your investment as your skills grow. Start with a kit lens, add a versatile zoom like the 24-70mm f/2.8 as you progress, and explore Sony G Master glass for professional work. For more options, browse our complete guide to underwater housings for Sony mirrorless cameras if you plan to shoot in wet environments.