Auto Pixel Mapping on the Sony Alpha 7R VI

A sensor optimization that runs on its own at shutdown — and what to do if it's turned off.

Auto Pixel Mapping on the Sony Alpha 7R VI

Background maintenance for the sensor

The Auto Pixel Mapping setting determines whether the image sensor is automatically optimized. By default, this optimization runs at regular intervals when the camera is turned off — shutter sounds are heard during the process, which is normal.

Where to find the setting

The setting lives under MENU > Setup > Setup Option > Auto Pixel Mapping, with two possible positions: On, the default setting that triggers automatic optimization at regular intervals during shutdown; and Off, which disables that automatic process.

What turning it off implies

If automatic mapping is disabled, Sony recommends performing manual pixel mapping roughly once every three days. Neglecting this regular maintenance can cause bright spots to appear in images captured afterward — a flaw easily avoided with regular sensor upkeep.