Sony Control Lock Non-Functional

The Sony A9 menu has an option to lock various controls, including the multi-function wheel. Sadly, this function does not seem to work. When enabled, you are instructed to press and hold the Fn button until "Locked" appears in the rear screen. The lock is disabled by pressing and holding the Fn key a second time. However, it has no effect on any of the rear panel controls. I lost many images on a recent photo excursion to Ireland as a result.

Traveling with what one PNet colleague describes as "honking big lenses," in my case a 24-70/2.8 GM and 100-400/4.5-5.6 GM, requires a firm grip on the camera, to keep it from bouncing around, and when raising it to your eye. Unfortunately this grip often involves the Exposure Comp wheel, and the multi-function ISO control. Switching from AUTO to 204K is only a click away, and is nearly unnoticeable in the viewfinder (a brief flash when you shoot).

I normally disable the "Live View Effects" option, which causes the diaphragm to close immediately, rather than on focus lock. I changed that after this experience. When turned on, Live View Effects tracks changes to exposure comp and the ISO setting (if it exceeds the shutter or aperture capacity). Better yet, check the controls frequently.

I'm sure other cameras have similar problems. My Nikon DSLRs had a mechanical lock, which I used religiously. I urge Sony to correct the function of the firmware lock, to spare us the results of our inattention.

" "honking big lenses," Edward.

Indeed.