Sony EXIF Data Guide
Everything you need to know about EXIF metadata from Sony cameras — including brand-specific MakerNote fields, popular models, and privacy considerations.
About Sony
Sony entered the camera market through its acquisition of Konica Minolta's camera division in 2006, inheriting the A-mount system. Sony quickly established itself as an innovator, launching the first full-frame mirrorless camera (the A7) in 2013 and pioneering features like in-body image stabilization and real-time eye autofocus.
Sony is the market leader in full-frame mirrorless cameras and the largest supplier of image sensors to other camera manufacturers. Their Alpha (A) series cameras are the go-to choice for many professional videographers and hybrid photo/video shooters.
Common EXIF Fields in Sony Photos
These are the standard EXIF fields you will find in photos taken with Sony cameras:
| Field | Description | Example Value |
|---|---|---|
| Make | Camera manufacturer | SONY |
| Model | Camera body model | ILCE-7RM5 |
| LensModel | Lens identifier | FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II |
| LensID | Numeric lens identification | SEL2470GM2 |
| Software | Firmware version | ILCE-7RM5 v2.01 |
| ReleaseMode | Shooting drive mode | Normal |
Sony-Specific MakerNote Fields
Beyond standard EXIF data, Sony cameras embed proprietary metadata in the MakerNote section. These fields are unique to Sony and contain additional technical details about how the photo was captured:
| Field | Description | Example Value |
|---|---|---|
| CreativeStyle | Picture profile or creative style | Standard |
| ColorTemperature | White balance color temperature in Kelvin | 5500 |
| DynamicRangeOptimizer | DRO setting for shadow recovery | Auto |
| FocusMode2 | Detailed AF mode | AF-C |
| AFAreaModeSetting | AF area selection mode | Wide |
| FlexibleSpotPosition | Position of flexible spot AF point | 960 640 |
| SonyImageHeight | Actual image height in pixels | 6336 |
| Quality2 | Image quality setting with details | RAW + JPEG Fine |
Popular Sony Camera Models
These are the most common Sony cameras you will encounter when viewing EXIF data:
| Model | Type | Megapixels | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| A7R V | Mirrorless | 61 MP | 2022 |
| A7 IV | Mirrorless | 33 MP | 2021 |
| A7C II | Mirrorless (Compact) | 33 MP | 2023 |
| A9 III | Mirrorless | 24.6 MP | 2024 |
| A1 | Mirrorless | 50.1 MP | 2021 |
| A6700 | Mirrorless (APS-C) | 26 MP | 2023 |
| ZV-E10 II | Mirrorless (Vlog) | 26 MP | 2024 |
| RX100 VII | Compact | 20.1 MP | 2019 |
Tips for Reading Sony EXIF Data
- 1.Sony uses internal model codes like 'ILCE-7RM5' instead of marketing names like 'A7R V'. The EXIF Model field shows the internal code.
- 2.Sony ARW files contain extensive metadata about the autofocus system, including exact AF point positions.
- 3.Look for the CreativeStyle or PictureProfile field to see which color profile was applied in-camera.
- 4.Sony cameras record DynamicRangeOptimizer settings, which affect shadow detail in JPEG output.
- 5.The LensID field uses Sony's internal lens database codes, which can identify even third-party lenses.
Have a photo from a Sony camera?
Upload it to see all EXIF data including Sony-specific MakerNote fields — 100% free and private.
Try the Photo Metadata ViewerFrequently Asked Questions
What does ILCE mean in Sony EXIF data?
ILCE stands for Interchangeable Lens Camera with E-mount. It is Sony's internal designation for their mirrorless Alpha cameras. For example, ILCE-7RM5 is the Sony A7R V. The EXIF Model field always shows this internal code rather than the marketing name.
What raw format do Sony cameras use?
Sony cameras use the ARW (Alpha Raw) format. ARW files contain the unprocessed sensor data, a JPEG preview, and extensive metadata including Sony-specific MakerNote fields for autofocus, creative styles, and lens corrections.
Do Sony cameras embed GPS in EXIF?
Some Sony cameras like the A7C II and A7R V have built-in GPS. Others can transfer location data from a paired smartphone via the Imaging Edge Mobile app, which gets embedded in the EXIF GPS fields. Bluetooth-connected phones can also provide location tagging.
Related Guides
All Camera Brands
Browse EXIF guides for all camera manufacturers.
What Is EXIF Data?
Complete guide to photo metadata — what it is and how it works.
Photo Privacy Guide
What personal information your photos reveal and how to protect yourself.
Camera Settings in EXIF
Understand aperture, ISO, shutter speed, and other camera settings in metadata.