The A7 IV is a genuine all-rounder, so its baseline settings should flex with the subject rather than lean hard into one specialty.
Updated
Newer model: Sony A7 V settings
Quick answer
| Situation | Mode | Aperture | Shutter | ISO | AF mode | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Everyday & travel | A | f/5.6-f/8 | Auto | Auto ISO | AF-S, Wide | Single Shooting |
| Portraits | A | f/1.8-f/2.8 | 1/250s or faster | 100-800 | AF-C, Eye AF; spot metering on the eye | Single Shooting |
| Landscapes (tripod) | A | f/8 | As metered | 100 (base) | AF-S, Spot | Single Shooting + self-timer |
| Kids, pets & action | S | f/2.8-f/4 | 1/1000s or faster | Auto ISO | AF-C, Tracking: Wide | Continuous Shooting: Hi |
| Indoor events | A | f/2.8 | Auto ISO min. shutter tied to focal length | Auto ISO | AF-C, Eye AF | Single Shooting |
Portraits: f/1.8-f/2.8, spot metering on the eye
The sensor's dynamic range holds up well when metering tightly on skin tones rather than the whole frame.
Best for: Individual and couple portraits
Landscape: f/8, base ISO 100
A standard, dependable landscape baseline that the sensor's resolution and dynamic range both support well.
Best for: Scenic, tripod-based work
Low-light events: f/2.8, Auto ISO with min shutter tied to focal length
Reliable in mixed indoor light without needing to push settings to their limits.
Best for: Indoor events, receptions
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