It's got a 42.2 MP full-frame sensor

There’s no ignoring this camera’s headline statistic: a huge sensor packed with pixels to ensure you can capture astonishing quality images. Redesigned to be more efficient at capturing light in low-light situations, there’s also no low-pass filter so the camera can resolve even finer detail – and with the option of capturing either compressed or uncompressed Raw files, you’re going to need to invest in some large memory cards pretty promptly. The size and resolution of the images captured by the camera make this one definitely a camera for the pros, or those who take their photography super seriously.

That redesigned autofocus

Sony has packed the A99 Mark II with a brand new hybrid autofocus system known as 4D Focus. This combines an astonishing 399 focal plane phase detection AF points with 79 phase detection AF points, resulting in a 79 point hybrid cross AF array – and as the camera’s mirror is translucent, this “full time” AF will work continuously, whatever kind of shooting you’re doing. All this means that the camera’s AF is even better at locking on to and tracking fast moving subjects – so it’s particularly suited to action photographers.

5-axis SteadyShot Image Stabilisation

You’ll have already seen a similar system in the A7 II series but the one found in the A99 Mk II has been reengineered to detect even the smallest movements for the steadiest images ever – even when shooting video. Photographers using either telephoto lenses for distance work or macros for close-ups can check framing, focus and the effect of the image stabilisation while using Live View by half-pressing the shutter button.

It's tinier than its predecessor

The new A99 Mk II is 8% smaller than the original A99 and Sony’s has worked in a whole host of other adjustments to make this new incarnation easier to shoot with. A new grip, sealed buttons and dials and a magnesium alloy body all mean that this camera’s built to last: it’s a true professional’s tool.

It's going to last

The Sony A99 Mark II’s shutter has passed endurance tests beyond 300,000 shutter operations: if you just shot one picture a day (very restrained of you), the shutter would hold out for just under 822 years. So if you did decide to go for it, your great-great-great-great-great-great-great (etc) granddaughter could still be enjoying your A99 Mark II in her home on Mars…

It's 4K ready

And how. The A99 Mark II offers internal 4K movie capture without pixel binning in XAVC S format files: perfect for professional videographers and movie-makers. As the name suggests, a new “Slow and Quick” mode supports both quick and slow motion filming: frame rates from 1fps to 120fps can be selected depending on the creative effect you’re looking for.

The EVF's been improved

This means you’ll get continuous Live View shooting at 8fps with minimal display lag – Sony says it’s essentially no different from the experience offered by an optical viewfinder. You can also see your current exposure, white balance and other camera settings from the EVF itself, so there’s no need to move your eye from the viewfinder to adjust your current settings – handy for those in the middle of a fast-paced photo moment

The Sony A99 Mark II