Sony gremlin or user error? So, when I arrived at a photo shoot 2 hours from home, I discovered that my Sony A7RIII was acting a bit strangely. It seemed that the rear screen would...

Pat F 4119 Loc: Branford, CT

So, when I arrived at a photo shoot 2 hours from home, I discovered that my Sony A7RIII was acting a bit strangely. It seemed that the rear screen would only display if the camera was pointed down, or if the screen itself was pulled slightly away from the body. This issue persisted throughout the shoot and with various lenses, but fortunately wasn’t a major issue since I normally use viewfinder anyway. Now, strangely enough, the camera is back to working normally.

The only thing I could think of was that for some reason, the camera sensed something in close proximity to the eyepiece, but since there wasn’t, as for as I could see, I’m at a loss. Again, not a huge problem, but probably a strong argument for purchasing a back up body. As always, thanks in advance for your help!

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

Pat F 4119 wrote:

So, when I arrived at a photo shoot 2 hours from h... (show quote)

Your menu can resolve that issue. Please refer to your manual. If you cannot find it in your Index, call Sony and they will take you step by step to resolve your issue.

pecohen Loc: Central Maine

Pat F 4119 wrote:

So, when I arrived at a photo shoot 2 hours from h... (show quote)

Was it particularly hot or particularly cold at the photo shoot? I'm thinking something in the environment there might be the culprit.

Pat F 4119 Loc: Branford, CT

I doubt it was a menu item because the problem is not occurring now, and no, it wasn’t extremely warm or cold on the shoot, but thanks for your responses.

Canisdirus

Just a guess, but sometimes I have not seated my lcd all the way in, and it hangs on the switch a bit...

larryepage Loc: North Texas area

If this symptom returns, I'd suggest having your camera checked by a trusted shop that is authorized to repair Sony equipment. The owner of my local shop, which has been in business many years, told me that over 50% of his work is now related to movable rear display screens.

jackpinoh Loc: Kettering, OH 45419

Pat F 4119 wrote:

So, when I arrived at a photo shoot 2 hours from h... (show quote)

Try cleaning the EVF sensor.

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

Pat F 4119 wrote:

So, when I arrived at a photo shoot 2 hours from h... (show quote)

The screen is designed to turn off when you put your face to the viewfinder. A shadow will do on a sunny day. I have my Sony rear screen turned off due to battery drain. The only time it comes on is when I push the review button.
You have several options on the screen in the menu. You should look at it.

kymarto Loc: Portland OR and Milan Italy

Clean the small light sensor above the eyepiece.

repleo Loc: Boston

kymarto wrote:

Clean the small light sensor above the eyepiece.

👍👍

sandykreit

Hi,
Well we're kind of stuck inside now, but I would take the camera to B&H Photo on 33rd Street and 9th Ave in the city. They have a Sony Kiosk with people from Sony who are knowledgeable and ready to help you and answer any questions for free. I have a Sony A7iii, not as fancy as yours but that's what I would do. Good luck and stay safe!

bwana Loc: Bergen, Alberta, Canada

Pat F 4119 wrote:

So, when I arrived at a photo shoot 2 hours from h... (show quote)

Check whether the eye sensor on the viewfinder is clean... bwa

Pat F 4119 Loc: Branford, CT

kymarto wrote:

Clean the small light sensor above the eyepiece.

Thanks, will do.

Pat F 4119 Loc: Branford, CT

sandykreit wrote:

Hi,
Well we're kind of stuck inside now, but I would take the camera to B&H Photo on 33rd Street and 9th Ave in the city. They have a Sony Kiosk with people from Sony who are knowledgeable and ready to help you and answer any questions for free. I have a Sony A7iii, not as fancy as yours but that's what I would do. Good luck and stay safe!

Thanks, it’s not the camera, it’s the photographer, right? :) Thanks for the suggestion. Maybe I’ll try giving them a call to see if there’s something they can share over the phone. Thanks!

chapjohn Loc: Tigard, Oregon

billnikon wrote:

The screen is designed to turn off when you put your face to the viewfinder. A shadow will do on a sunny day. I have my Sony rear screen turned off due to battery drain. The only time it comes on is when I push the review button.
You have several options on the screen in the menu. You should look at it.

billnikon is correct. There is nothing wrong with your camera, it is doing what it was designed to do unless you change it in the menu.