my sisters wedding is coming up in early August and I really want to get an a7iv to shoot some candid stuff but man the prices right now are stressing me out. I checked some rumors sites and people were saying there might be a sale in May for some anniversary thing but then I saw a post on a different forum saying Sony already did their big spring discounts and there wont be anything else until Labor Day. My budget is pretty tight at around $2300 for the whole setup and I really need to buy it soon so I can actually practice before the big day. Is there actually anything coming up soon or should I just bite the bullet now?
^ This. Are you okay with third-party glass? I once had a cheap lens fail during a hike. This reliable kit fits your budget.
> My budget is pretty tight at around $2300 for the whole setup and I really need to buy it soon I would suggest being very careful with wait-and-see tactics since your deadline is firm. You might want to consider looking at reputable open-box listings or certified used units to keep costs down. Make sure to verify the return policy beforehand. A used Sony Alpha a7 IV 33MP Mirrorless Camera paired with a Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 lens should fit safely within your $2300 limit.
Unfortunately, you just missed the primary spring window for major discounts. I have been tracking Sony pricing for a decade and those rumors about a mid-May anniversary sale are usually a total bust. It is pretty disappointing how the prices have stayed so high lately. If you are hoping to get a brand new Sony Alpha a7 IV Mirrorless Camera Body and a lens for under $2300, honestly, it isnt gonna happen with current retail prices. The body alone usually hovers around $2200 to $2400. I have had some issues with waiting for the next big sale only to find out the discount was barely fifty bucks. Since you need it by August, you really should have it in your hands by June to actually learn the AF tracking. Here is what I would suggest instead of waiting:
- Look for a used Sony Alpha a7 IV Mirrorless Camera Body on reputable gear sites. You can usually find them for around $1900, which leaves you just enough for glass.
- Pick up the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Sony E instead of Sony native glass. It is way more affordable and the performance is basically on par for wedding candids.
- If the budget is set in stone, honestly, look at the Sony Alpha a7 III Mirrorless Camera Body. It is still a workhorse and will leave you plenty of room for a good flash or a second lens. Waiting for Labor Day is a gamble you wont win since the wedding is in early August. I would just pull the trigger on a used or refurbished setup now so you dont end up panicking three days before the ceremony... it happens way more than you think.
waiting for a big drop on the a7iv before august is honestly a big risk. id be very careful about holding out for a memorial day sale that might not even happen for that specific body. since you have a firm deadline for the wedding, you might want to consider going with a slightly older but proven setup to make sure you have enough cash left for reliable accessories. weddings are high pressure and you really dont want gear issues cropping up.
- look at a Sony Alpha a7 III Mirrorless Camera Body if you want to stay under budget while getting amazing shots. it is a total workhorse.
- definitely invest in a Sony TOUGH-G series SDXC UHS-II 128GB card because you do not want a cheap card failing during the ceremony.
- maybe grab a Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 Lens since it is super sharp and great for candid portraits from a distance. honestly id just bite the bullet now or look at the a7iii to save cash. you need that practice time more than the extra megapixels imo. definitely make sure you have at least two batteries too. hit me up if you need more gear tips tho.
