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The brains of the Sony Alpha a33 is a refined version of Sony’s BIONZ® image processor. The Sony a33 can automatically detect up to eight individual faces.

Capture the decisive moment with the world’s first Translucent Mirror Technology™ DSLR. The Sony Alpha a33 features professional-grade continuous shooting at 7 fps and visibly faster, more accurate focus in Live View and HD Movie modes. Compose your shots on either the LCD monitor or electronic viewfinder with 100% framing accuracy. Advanced features including Auto HDR, Sweep Panorama and 15-point Auto Focus make it dramatically easier to get the best shot.

Experience a revolutionary breakthrough in video capture when shooting fast-moving subjects. The Sony α33 is the world’s first camera with the precision of Phase Detection auto focus (AF) for HD Movies. Translucent Mirror Technology not only enables full-time phase-detection AF for photos, it also delivers the same speed and precision for Full HD movies.

Unlike other DSLRs that can either shoot or focus with the speed and precision of Phase Detection AF, the Sony a33 is the world’s first DSLR that can do both simultaneously1. Featuring an unprecedented Translucent Mirror, the Sony Alpha a33 is able to feed both the image sensor and the Phase Detection at the same time.

Reviews

CNET.au writes:
“great entry-level digital SLR, the A33 offers fast shooting speeds and very good image quality for most intents and purposes.”
Rating: ★★★★☆

PhotographyBlog writes:
“The Sony A33 is a great marriage of new and old, competitively priced to take on the best that mid-range DSLRs and Compact System Cameras can offer, and surpassing both in many ways. Highly Recommended.”
Rating: ★★★★½

PhotoReview.au writes:
“The AF system on the a33 was as fast and accurate as we found with the a55 and the review camera was just as able to keep focus on moving subjects – as long as they weren’t moving really fast. We found a similar slight tendency to hunt in low light levels and with low-contrast subjects. “
Rating: ★★★★½

SteveHuffPhoto writes:
“The Sony offers rich color, superb auto white balance and the responsiveness of much more expensive cameras. In my opinion, the A33 is a winner and I had a hard time coming up with negatives for this little guy”
Rating: N/A

ImagingResource writes:
“The Sony A33 performed well in our low light test, producing bright images down to the lowest light level we test at (1/16 fc) at all ISO settings…Noise is very well controlled up to ISO 800, though as expected, at higher ISOs there are moderate to high amounts of fine luminance noise and some blotchy chroma noise. Auto white balance did a very good job here, producing a neutral color balance at all ISOs and light levels.”
Rating: N/A

Videos

Specifications:

Image sensor: 23.4 x 15.6mm Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor with 14.6 million photosites (14.2 megapixels effective)
A/D processing: 12-bit
Lens mount: Sony A-mount (accepts Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lenses)
Focal length crop factor: 1.5x
Image formats: Stills – ARW.RAW, JPEG (Exif 2.3), RAW+JPEG; Movies – AVCHD/MP4
Image Sizes: Stills – 3:2 aspect: 4592x 3056, 3344 x 2224, 2288 x 1520; 16:9 aspect: 4592 x 2576, 3344 x 1872, 2288 x 1280; Movies: 1920 x 1080 (50i recording, 25 fps image sensor output / Average bit rate 17 Mbps); 1440 x 1080 (25 fps / Average bit rate 12 Mbps), 640 x 480 (25 fps / Average bit rate 3 Mbps)
Image Stabilisation: Body-integrated image-sensor shift; approx. 2.5 to 4 stops decrease in shutter speeds (varies with conditions and lens used)
Dust removal: Charge protection coating on low pass filter and image-sensor shift mechanism
Shutter speed range: 30 seconds to 1/4000 second plus Bulb; flash synch at 1/160 second
Exposure Compensation: +/- 2EV in 1/3 EV increments
Exposure bracketing: 3 continuous exposures in 0.3 or 0.7-stop steps
Self-timer: 2 or 10 seconds delay
Focus system: TTL phase-detection system using CCD line sensors; wide area / 15-point local frame selection / fixed centre spot focus, predictive AF for moving subjects, auto-tracking focus point, focus lock
Focus modes: Single-shot AF, Auto AF, Continuous AF, Manual Focus
Exposure metering: 1200-zone evaluative
Shooting modes: Auto, Advanced (Auto+), Program AE, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual, Sweep Panorama (2D/3D), Continuous Advance Priority AE; Scene modes (Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset, Night view / Night portrait, Hand-held Twilight)
Picture Style/Control settings: Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, B/W
Colour space options: sRGB, Adobe RGB
ISO range: Auto, ISO 100 to 12,800 (in 1-stop increments)
White balance: Auto, Preset (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Flash), Colour Temperature (2500 to 9900K with 19-step Magenta / Green compensation)
Flash: Built-in Auto Pop-up, GN 10 (metres at ISO 100)
Flash exposure adjustment: +/- 2EV in 1/3 EV increments
Sequence shooting: Up to 7 fps in Continuous Advance Priority AE mode, up to 6 fps in Continuous mode; max. 16 Large/Fine JPEGs, 7 raw frames
Storage Media: Single slot that accepts SD/SDHCSDXC or Memory Stick Pro Duo cards
Viewfinder: 1.2 cm colour EVF with 100% FOV, 1.1x magnification, approx 19mm eye relief, dioptre adjustment from -4.0 to +4.0 dpt
LCD monitor: 3.0-inch (100% field of view), 921,600-dot TFT, Xtra Fine LCD with TruBlack technology
Live View modes: Quick AF Live View using translucent mirror mechanism
Data LCD: No
Playback functions: Single-frame, Index (4 or 9 frames), Enlarge (7.2x  to 14x), Slideshow, Picture rotation (auto mode available), Histogram (independent luminance/RGB available), Shooting information
Interface terminals: USO 2.0, HDMI (Type C Mini), Mic. terminal, remote controller, Bravia synch
Power supply: NP-FW50 rechargeable lithium-ion battery; CIPA rated for approx. 270 shots (EVF) or 340 shots (LCD)
Dimensions (wxhxd): Approx. 124.4 x 92 x 84.7 mm
Weight: Approx. 433 grams (without battery, memory card or accessories)

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The Sony Alpha a55 enables exciting new possibilities for framing and viewing highest-quality video and still images. This camera features a bright 7.5 cm (3.0″) (16:9) Xtra Fine LCD.

The Sony Alpha a55 family of interchangeable lens cameras from Sony grows with the compact, ultra-responsive new Sony Alpha a55  camera. Sony’s first-ever digital camera to employ Translucent Mirror Technology showcases an innovative optical system that opens up dramatic new shooting possibilities. In contrast with conventional DSLR cameras, Translucent Mirror Technology uses a fixed, translucent mirror that ‘splits’ the optical pathway between the main image sensor and a separate phase-detection autofocus sensor.

Sony Alpha a55 digital SLR camera features:

- 16.2MP (effective) APS HD CMOS sensor

- Fixed, pellicle-type semi-translucent mirror

- Maximum ISO 12,800 (with a quasi-ISO 25,600 ‘Multi-frame NR’ option)

- 15-point phase-detection AF array with 3 cross-type AF points

- Electronic viewfinder with 1.15 million dot resolution

- Built-in GPS

- Electronic level in EVF/LCD with pitch/roll indicator

- Dual-purpose Memory Stick/SD card slot

- 10fps continuous shooting rate

- 1080p AVCHD movie mode with continuous AF

- Articulated 3in ‘TruBlack’ LCD with 912k dots socket for external microphone

- 2x magnification mode in live view

- Face-detection AF (focus via nearest phase-detection AF point)

Sony Alpha a55 is made possible by adopting an approach that has more in common with a mirrorless camera (like the Panasonic G2, for example) than an SLR by removing the bits that pretty much define such cameras: the optical viewfinder and moving mirror.

The designation ‘SLT’ stands for single lens translucent and it’s the ‘translucent’ bit that’s the key to what differentiates these new models both from conventional DSLRs and mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. The Sony Alpha a55 SLTs do have mirrors, but they’re mirrors that let the majority of the light pass straight through to the sensor, rather than having to swing out of the way to allow exposure. As a result they are fixed in position, always reflecting a portion of the light emerging from the back of the lens onto a phase-detection AF array housed in the top of the camera. (A newly-developed 15-point array in the case of these two cameras).

Reviews

Shutterbug writes:
“In all, the a55 begins to create a different photographic atmosphere. It’s a fascinating combination of tools and tricks, with the tricks increasingly becoming an inherent part of the tools.”
Rating: N/A

DigitalCameraHQ writes:
“The A55 is an excellent camera all around, and absolutely worth buying. It’s the speediest consumer dSLR out there and doesn’t compromise on image quality, either. The handling is unique within the dSLR realm, and incredibly versatile out in the field: Nothing else at this price combines a dSLR’s speed with such a useful live-view”
Rating: ★★★★☆

TechTree writes:
“Image quality is excellent even in low light conditions, especially when you use the Hand-held Night Shot mode. Photos are sharp and colors look natural. The GPS geotagging feature is surely going to interest travelers with a serious interest in photography.”
Rating: ★★★★☆

TechRadar writes:
“Given the current Sony A55 price, it may still prove to be a compelling choice if the features meet your buying criteria, due to its decent image quality at high sensitivities, compact dimensions and support for existing Sony A-mount lenses.”
Rating: ★★★★☆

Adorama writes:
“The Sony A55 is a great marriage of new and old, competitively priced to take on the best that mid-range DSLRs and Compact System Cameras can offer, and surpassing both in many ways. Highly Recommended.”
Rating: ★★★★½

PhotographyBlog writes:
“The Sony A55 is a great marriage of new and old, competitively priced to take on the best that mid-range DSLRs and Compact System Cameras can offer, and surpassing both in many ways. Highly Recommended.”
Rating: ★★★★½

Videos

Specifications

Dimensions

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The Sony Alpha a580 enables exciting new possibilities for framing and viewing the highest-quality still images and video. The Sony Alpha a580 offers Full HD video shooting.

The 16.2 Megapixel Sony Alpha a580 can freeze fleeting photo opportunities at up to 7 fps in Speed Priority Continuous Advance mode.

What’s more, Sony’s popular Quick AF Live View system is now more effective than ever. The benefits of live image preview are maximised by a newly developed 15-point phase-detection autofocus system that keeps even moving subjects in pin-sharp focus. The Sony a580 is compatible with the full Alpha range of over 30 A-mount interchangeable lenses of Sony and Carl Zeiss and offer SteadyShot inside. This in-body sensor shift image stabilisation system provides up to 4 exposure steps of anti-shake correction when shooting handheld.

The Sony Alpha a580 accepts both Memory Stick PRO Duo (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo) and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media (all sold separately). Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX 30MB per second transfer rate offers the best performance during cameras’ continuous shooting mode or when transferring the data to another media.

Reviews

Phoblographer writes:
“The a580 is a stellar choice for photographers across genres; wedding, sports, concert, street, event, etc. The camera sports stellar AF, an impressive burst capacity, crisp video, and solid performance at high ISOs, among other things.“
Rating: N/A

WDC writes:
“In all the Sony A580 ticks a number of boxes for the mid-range DSLR genre, but doesn’t differentiate itself enough from the A55 or other similarly-specced models to make it anything more than another solid DSLR in a crowded market.“
Rating: ★★★★☆

ExpertReviews writes:
“the A580 is an impressive camera with its low noise, fast continuous performance and array of genuinely useful tricks. We prefer its more conventional design over the A55, but the Canon EOS 550D is better for video and its automatic exposures are more balanced. Ultimately, though, both cameras are eclipsed by the cheaper Nikon D3100 and Pentax K-r.”
Rating: ★★★★☆

CGG writes:
“the Sony A580 is simply producing the best image quality and offering the most impressive ISO performance of any APS-C Alpha camera available today. If you want a powerful but easy to use DSLR with zero compromise in the performance and image quality department, the Sony A580 should be the first camera on your list.”
Rating: ★★★★☆

PhotoRadar writes:
“As an all-rounder performer it shines, with its high-resolution sensor and articulated LCD screen making it ideal for still-life photography, and its speedy focusing system and 7fps burst rate meaning that it’s not out of place when action presents itself either.”
Rating: ★★★★☆

PhotographyBlog writes:
“Image quality is very good, with noise not rearing its ugly head until ISO 1600 for JPEGs and not until 6400 if you use the innovative Multi Frame Noise Reduction mode, although the A580 does apply some pretty aggressive noise reduction to keep the files clean, resulting in a loss of fine detail. “
Rating: ★★★★½

AlphaMountWorld writes:
“Since the battery life is so stellar (even in very cold weather), that shouldn’t be a consideration for the A580 either. My only concerns are the mediocre dust reduction system and weather resistance of the a580. As long as you shooting in pretty normal conditions weather wise, it will make a versatile companion capable of beautiful landscapes and tack sharp animal life/still life images”
Rating: N/A

Videos

Specifications:

The Sony Alpha a560 is compatible with the full Alpha range of over 30 A-mount interchangeable lenses of Sony and Carl Zeiss and offer SteadyShot inside. The Sony a560 accepts both Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD media (all sold separately).

Appealing to photographers ready to explore sophisticated new creative possibilities, the Sony Alpha a560 offers unparalleled levels of imaging refinement. At the heart of the Sony a560 is a new-generation Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor processor. Together with the latest iteration of Sony’s powerful BIONZ imaging processor, it supports high-speed continuous shooting plus a sophisticated range of digital image compositing and processing functions. This gives even greater artistic possibilities to beginners and photo enthusiasts alike.

Digital camera world sells the Sony Alpha A560  JR camera house sales the Sony Alpha A560 Gerry Gibbs camerahouse sell the Sony Alpha A560

The Sony Alpha a560 offers Full HD video shooting. Just touch the dedicated Movie button and record detail-packed HD videos and crisp stereo sound in a choice of AVCHD 1080i or web-friendly MP4 formats. Thanks to the large, high-resolution Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor, it’s possible to capture stunning HD movie clips with beautiful background defocus (‘bokeh’) effects.

ImagingResource reviews the Sony A560 and writes:
“images are quite clean at ISOs 100 and 200, and ISO 400 is almost as good. Some noise “grain” is noticeable at ISO 800, and there’s a bit of chroma noise in the shadows..There’s some stronger smudging of fine detail at ISO 1,600, but the A560 still does better than most at this ISO for its resolution.“
Rating: N/A

Sony A560 Sample Photos:
- Sample Photos @ Imaging-resource
- Sample Photos @ Flickr.com

Specifications:

Good: Efficient and simple live-view mode, Tilting LCD display, Decent value for money

Bad: Awkward handling, Plasticky build quality, Too similar to the Alpha DSLR-A380

The Sony Alpha A390 includes a mini-HDMI terminal for direct connection to any HD Ready TV (requires optional cable).The Sony A390 adds the extra benefit of Quick AF Live View.

Ideal for first-time DSLR users, the Sony DSLR-A390 offers a dramatic step up in picture quality and creative options from point-and-shoot compact cameras. The Sony Alpha A390 is easy to use, even if you’ve never handled a DSLR camera before.

Super cheap cameras sell the Sony Alpha A390 JR camera house sales the Sony Alpha A390 Gerry Gibbs camerahouse sell the Sony Alpha A390

Ephotozine writes:
“Sony’s A390 is certainly a very capable camera and the results this camera is capable of producing should please many who want an easy to use introduction to shooting with a digital SLR
. It’s only weakness appears to be with noise at high ISO settings, but even then the results are more than acceptable for most uses up to ISO800 and even maybe ISO1600.. Sony’s standard 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens that comes bundled with this camera has proved itself capable of producing very good results. We did a full test on the lens here where the lens showed itself capable of producing images with excellent resolution.”
Rating: ★★★★½

PCWorld writes:
“The 55-200mm lens gives the A390 good reach for close-ups and it’s useful for outdoor photography as well as portraits. It has an aperture range from f/4 (at 55mm) to f/5.6 (at 200mm), but it’s not stabilised — image stabilisation happens in the A390’s body. It focuses rather loudly, but it’s accurate and in our tests we had no problems focusing on our intended marks..”
Rating: ★★★½☆

Pocket-lint writes:
“Of course, for those first time buyers this will be of little consequence as the A390 is an affordable DSLR that takes decent pictures of good, usable quality throughout its entire ISO 100-3200 range…”
Rating: ★★★½☆

CNET.uk writes:
“The main autofocus sensor is still active, so the A390 focuses much faster in live-view mode than other dSLRs — hence ‘Quick AF’. It’s quick and simple to activate the live-view mode, and it works well. This mode is all the more useful thanks to the tilting, 69mm (2.7-inch) LCD on the back of the camera. Low-level and macro shots are much easier as a result.”
Rating: ★★★☆☆

WDC writes:
“The camera’s Quick AF Live View speed still remains to be beaten in this class, and the tilt-angle LCD screen is a great addition when compared to some competition. The A390 stands its ground well and produces decent pictures throughout its ISO 100-3200 range..”
Rating: ★★★★☆

With a resolution of 14.2 effective megapixels for flawless, low-noise images, bothe Sony A390 offers the speedy shooting responses that are prized by DSLR users. The Sony Alpha A390 adds the extra benefit of Quick AF Live View. This unique system teams the convenience of live image preview on the tilt-angle Clear Photo LCD with speedy, accurate phase-detection autofocus.

The Sony DSLR-A390 features an attractive new grip design that allows even more comfortable handling. Upper control areas of the Sony A390 have also been revised with a clear, uncluttered new button layout. Even DSLR novices will find it brilliantly simple to explore the generous creative features of this new Sony Alpha SLR. The intuitive Graphic Display makes it easy to understand the relation between shutter speed and aperture, plus the effects of your chosen exposure settings on the final picture. The Help Guide offers clear, concise explanations of camera functions, illustrated by a sample image to show the results you’ll achieve. Quick access to shooting and playback function menus is streamlined by colorful on-screen icons.

Sony Alpha A390 specifications:

Color space:
sRGB
Adobe RGB
Lens mount: Sony Alpha lenses (also compatible with Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lenses)

Autofocus:
TTL phase dectection
9-point

Viewfinder:
Optical fixed eye-level
Pentamirror type
Frame coverage 95% (approx.)
Viewfinder magnification approx. 0.74x with 50mm lens at infinity; -1.0 m-1
Spherical Acute Matte focusing screen

LCD monitor:
2.7″ tilting TFT LCD
230,400 dots

Continuous shooting:
2.5 fps with viewfinder
2.0 fps with Live View
JPEG: Limited only by storage
RAW: Approx. 6 frames
RAW+JPEG: Approx. 3 frames

Self-timer: 2 or 10 sec

Connectivity:
USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed)
HDMI mini connector (Type C)

Power: Lithium-Ion battery pack NP-FH50

Battery life: Approx. 500 shots (CIPA standard)

Dimensions: Approx. 128.1 x 97.1 x 83.5mm

Weight (no batt): Approx.497 g

Good:
- Friendly ergonomics
- Comfortable body size and weight
- Great performance in normal shooting modes
- Unequalled performance when using Fast Autofocus Live View
- Great Auto HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode
- Fast busrt frame rate for this class of camera
- Dual Card slots (SDHC, MS Pro Duo)
- Nice 3-inch tilting LCD
- Excellent battery life
- All lenses enjoy the benefits of a camera body based IS

Bad:
- No standard video out (mini-HDMI Port only)
- No included video cable
- No Depth of Field Preview or Mirror Lockup features
- Slightly slower burst frame rate when using AF-C (Continuous AF) in some conditions
- No video capture feature
- No way to turn off high ISO Noise Reduction (Normal or High options only)

The new Sony Alpha A500 provides excellent picture quality, particularly in low-light scenarios. A new generation of Sony(R) Exmor CMOS image sensors employ new low-noise processing for high-quality pictures. The BIONZ image processor has color-noise reduction that helps achieve low noise up to ISO 12800, without sacrificing fine detail.

In-Camera High Dynamic Range
The A500 is one of the Sony’s first DSLR cameras that offer an in-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) feature for capturing highlights and shadows, which processes the image within two seconds. Unlike HDR features in other DSLR cameras, Sony’s unique positional interpolation technology can overcome slight changes in camera position and align individual shots so that a tripod is not required.

The feature handles severe backlighting and other high-contrast scenes like looking out a window into bright daylight. The in-camera auto HDR technology combines the highlight and shadow detail of two separate captures into one remarkably natural looking image.

Improved Live View
Because composing shots on the LCD monitor is becoming increasingly important to DSLR users, Sony has equipped this camera with two Live View functions and a 3-inch (measured diagonally) LCD screen that tilts 90 degrees up or down.

JR camera house sales the Sony DSLR-A500 BK camera house sales the Sony DSLR-A500 Gerry Gibbs camerahouse sell the Sony DSLR-A500 Mandurah camera house sell the Sony DSLR-A500 Digital Camera World sells the Sony DSLR-A500 Super Cheap Cameras sells the Sony DSLR-A500

Sony’s Quick AF Live View uses two sensors to maintain the same focusing speed as with the optical viewfinder. While the speed of Quick AF Live View is ideal for every day shooting, Manual Focus Check Live View enables critical framing and magnification for setting precise manual focus in macro and tripod shooting. Temporary 7x and 14x zoom views enable you to focus on extremely fine detail while the 1x view shows 100 percent framing in the LCD.

The Quick Auto Focus Live View has been developed with Face Detection technology to help you get the best shot by recognizing and adjusting for faces. It is the world’s first Face Detection system to work with fast, high-precision “phase detection” Auto Focus. By tracking up to eight faces, this system can prioritize auto focus points on a face, and optimize exposure and white balance for beautiful portraits.

The Sony DSLR-A500 is one the Sony’s first DSLR cameras that include Smile Shutter((TM)) technology in Live View, which takes the shot when your subject smiles. It works with Quick Auto Focus Live View to capture spontaneous moments.

Features

- New 12.3/14.2 effective megapixel CMOS sensor and new enhanced BIONZ processor for detail-packed, low-noise images with high sensitivity up to ISO 12800
- High-speed continuous shooting up to 5fps (with optical viewfinder) Enhanced Quick AF Live – View captures fast-moving action, with Face Detection for beautiful portraits
- 180º tilt-angle 3” Xtra Fine LCD (A550) and intuitive new interface for clear, simple shooting
- Manual Focus Check Live View mode for precise, convenient adjustment of focus and composition
- Auto HDR mode for high dynamic range exposures
- Class-leading shooting stamina
- HDMI™ output and BRAVIA™ Sync for control from TV remote

Image stabilization helps take blur-free shots by compensating for camera shake. Typical DSLR systems build image stabilization into selected lenses only. SteadyShot INSIDE(TM) image stabilization is built into the camera body itself. Blur will also be reduced with every A-mount lens, including macro and wide aperture standard zoom lenses, with an effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4 stops

To make the benefits of macro photography easier and more accessible, Sony is making available at retail the DT 30mm F/2.8 (model SAL30M28) macro lens. It captures intricate close-ups, which is difficult to achieve with standard lenses and is only compatible with APS-C format DSLRs.

Memory Cards
For higher capacity storage with greater connectivity and faster transfer speeds, the new DSLRs are compatible with Sony’s newest 32GB Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo(TM) HX media. The HX series card is designed to deliver optimal read and write speeds for a growing number of products that require high-bandwidth memory in order to capture and store large data files.

Using the HX series media, Sony a (alpha) DSLR users can confidently enjoy advanced features such as continuous-shooting photography and realize higher transfer rates of large capacity files to their compatible PC (via supplied USB adapter).

The  DSLR-A500 includes dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM), Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo(TM), HX series and SD/SDHC media (all sold separately).

Trusted Reviews writes about A500:
“The Sony Alpha A500 is a well-designed mid-range camera ideal for anyone upgrading from an entry-level model. It is rather bulky compared to its main rivals, but it is solidly made and handles well. It has a good range of features, excellent performance and reliably good image quality. If the lack of a video mode is no handicap then it’s certainly worth looking at.”

alphamountworld.com writes:
“One very important mention, is that the A500 is the reigning champ of battery life of any Alpha camera and probably over any DSLR in its class in the marketplace. For one charge, I shot nearly 1,000 images with 50% battery life remaining. You do the math. This trumped even the Alpha A550. It’s not a camera you’ll need to worry about in terms of battery life obviously, even when using live view on and off. Using the main sensor live view seems to draw a bit more power because of the bigger sensor, but that was mixed in the first 1K shots as well. Not too shabby.”

Steves digicams writes:
“The A500 is a camera with a wide variety of interesting features, including very fast Autofocus when using Live View (something you don’t find with competing dSLR models), and a unique Hand Held Auto HDR mode. Yet, the A500 still offers a number of features that appeal to first time dSLR owners, too (including a variety of scene modes, and easy to navigate screens for other camera settings). We only had a handful of minor complaints, and found that the A500 was fun to use with it’s nice ergonomics, easy to use control layout, and performance oriented features, making it a great choice in it’s market niche for virtually any type of still photography.”

Specifications:

Our Rating ****~ (4/5)

Good: Generally above-average performance for its class; excellent high ISO sensitivity profile relative to competitors; large, tilting LCD; fast Live View autofocus.

Bad: Poor color accuracy; Live View provides only 90 percent coverage; awkward design for shooting via optical viewfinder; no video.

The new DSLR-A550 provides excellent picture quality, particularly in low-light scenarios. A new generation of Sony(R) Exmor CMOS image sensors employ new low-noise processing for high-quality pictures. The BIONZ image processor has color-noise reduction that helps achieve low noise up to ISO 12800, without sacrificing fine detail.

Fast Shooting Speeds
The DSLR-A550 camera is the first DSLR in its class with seven frames per second shooting speed for under $1,000. Using the optical viewfinder on both models, you can shoot up to five frames per second and up to four frames per second with Quick Auto Focus Live View. This helps you capture the decisive moment when shooting fast moving subjects like in sports.

In-Camera High Dynamic Range
The A550 is one of the Sony’s first DSLR cameras that offer an in-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) feature for capturing highlights and shadows, which processes the image within two seconds. Unlike HDR features in other DSLR cameras, Sony’s unique positional interpolation technology can overcome slight changes in camera position and align individual shots so that a tripod is not required.

JR camera house sales the Sony DSLR-A550 BK camera house sales the Sony DSLR-A550 Gerry Gibbs camerahouse sell the Sony DSLR-A550 Mandurah camera house sell the Sony DSLR-A550 Digital Camera World sells the Sony DSLR-A550 Super Cheap Cameras sells the Sony DSLR-550

The feature handles severe backlighting and other high-contrast scenes like looking out a window into bright daylight. The in-camera auto HDR technology combines the highlight and shadow detail of two separate captures into one remarkably natural looking image.

PhotoReview.au writes:
“Image noise was negligible up to ISO 400, although by ISO 3200, pattern and colour noise had become obvious in long exposures with the in-camera noise-reduction processing turned off.”

DCI writes:
“The A550 has a very comfortable, rubberized grip and thumb rest, making it easy to hold securely even when moving quickly. The buttons and dials are well positioned, though the four-way controller is a bit too compact for our tastes.“

Steve’sDigicams writes:
“The A550’s focus system worked nicely, easily tracking moving subjects, performing better than expected. The only minor complaint was that the frame rate was not quite as fast as advertised when using Continuous Autofocus (the camera slows down just a bit when shooting rapidly moving subjects, apparently to help insure greater accuracy). Overall, we found that it was a fast and reliable system, giving a high percentage of in focus images in tougher conditions..”

PhotographyBay writes:
“The A550 covers ISO 200-12800, which is pretty impressive for a consumer-oriented camera. I never expected the A550 to really do that great with noise control at higher ISOs, and I wasn’t really surprised. “

AlphaMountWorld writes:
“In every day usage the difference is basically invisible. Make no mistake about it, the A5xx cameras are terrific high ISO cameras. If some one is coming from a Sony A2xx or A3xx the improvement in high ISO results will be very gratifying.”

CameraLabs writes:
“So long as you’re happy to trade video and the features mentioned above for speed and fuss-free operation, the A550 easily comes Recommended. But like the A380 before it, the cheaper sibling – in this case the A500 – could end up being the preferred choice.”

Photozone writes:
“Summing up the A550 represents an very good package not only for beginners but also for enthusiasts. The camera is on par with the Canon EOS 500D and the Nikon D5000…All in all – recommended! “

PCMag writes:
“I’m impressed by the speedy A550, with its top-notch, user-friendly interface and versatile 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. And it takes beautiful pictures, even in low light. You could save a few bucks and go for the less-expensive Nikon D5000 or Canon T2i, which offer comparable image quality and add HD video capture, but these cameras lack the snappy autofocus and 7 fps burst mode you get with the A550.”

Improved Live View
Because composing shots on the LCD monitor is becoming increasingly important to DSLR users, Sony has equipped this camera with two Live View functions and a 3-inch (measured diagonally) LCD screen that tilts 90 degrees up or down.

Quick AF Live View uses two sensors to maintain the same focusing speed as with the optical viewfinder. While the speed of Quick AF Live View is ideal for every day shooting, Manual Focus Check Live View enables critical framing and magnification for setting precise manual focus in macro and tripod shooting. Temporary 7x and 14x zoom views enable you to focus on extremely fine detail while the 1x view shows 100 percent framing in the LCD.

The Quick Auto Focus Live View has been developed with Face Detection technology to help you get the best shot by recognizing and adjusting for faces. It is the world’s first Face Detection system to work with fast, high-precision “phase detection” Auto Focus. By tracking up to eight faces, this system can prioritize auto focus points on a face, and optimize exposure and white balance for beautiful portraits.

The DSLR-A550 is one the Sony’s first DSLR cameras that include Smile Shutter((TM)) technology in Live View, which takes the shot when your subject smiles. It works with Quick Auto Focus Live View to capture spontaneous moments.

Key features

- 12.3 and 14.2 mp CMOS Exmor sensors
- Manual Focus Check Live View using the main imaging sensor
- 7fps in optical viewfinder mode
- New user interface
- HDR mode that combines multiple exposures
- 5-level manually selectable Dynamic Range Optimization
- Screen articulates up or down by 90 degrees
- Increased battery life

Image stabilization helps take blur-free shots by compensating for camera shake. Typical DSLR systems build image stabilization into selected lenses only. SteadyShot INSIDE(TM) image stabilization is built into the camera body itself. Blur will also be reduced with every A-mount lens, including macro and wide aperture standard zoom lenses, with an effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4 stops

To make the benefits of macro photography easier and more accessible, Sony is making available at retail the DT 30mm F/2.8 (model SAL30M28) macro lens. It captures intricate close-ups, which is difficult to achieve with standard lenses and is only compatible with APS-C format DSLRs.

Memory Cards
For higher capacity storage with greater connectivity and faster transfer speeds, the new DSLRs are compatible with Sony’s newest 32GB Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo(TM) HX media. The HX series card is designed to deliver optimal read and write speeds for a growing number of products that require high-bandwidth memory in order to capture and store large data files.

Using the HX series media, Sony a (alpha) DSLR users can confidently enjoy advanced features such as continuous-shooting photography and realize higher transfer rates of large capacity files to their compatible PC (via supplied USB adapter).

The camera includes dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM), Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo(TM), HX series and SD/SDHC media (all sold separately).

S P E C I F I C A T I O N

Viewfinder

• Diopter Adjustment : -2.5 – +1.0m-1
• Eye relief : Approx. 19 mm from the eyepiece, Approx. 15 mm from the eyepiece frame at -1 diopter
• Field of View : 95%
• Focusing Screen : Spherical Acute Matte Screen
• Magnification : 0.80x (with 50mm lens at infinity)
• Type : Fixed eye-level, penta-Dach-mirror

LCD Display

• Angle Adjustment : Yes(upward by up to 90 degrees, downward by up to 90 degrees)
• Brightness Control : Auto Brightness Control (Auto setting in 2 steps, manual setting in 5 steps)
• Coverage : 100% (Playback), 90% (Live View)
• Type : 3” TFT Xtra Fine™ LCD 4 (921,600 pixels)

Operating Conditions

• Operating Temperature : 32 – 104 degrees F (0 – 40 degrees C)

Service and Warranty Information

• Limited Warranty Term : 1 Year Parts & Labor

Weights and Measurements

• Dimensions (Approx.) : Approx. 137 X 104 X 84mm (W/H/D, excluding protrusions)
• Weight (Approx.) : Approx. 597g (without battery, memory card, accessories)

Power

• Battery Type : NP-FM500H
• Number of Shots : Approx. 1000 images with viewfinder, approx. 520 images in live view mode (CIPA standard)

Flash

• Flash Compensation : ±2EV (in 1/3 EV-stop increments)
• Flash Coverage : 18mm in focal-length of lens attached
• Flash Metering System : ADI flash (automatic change for Pre-flash TTL)
• Guide Number : 12 (in meters at ISO100)
• Modes : Auto, Fill-flash, Slow sync, Rear sync, Wireless
• Recycling Time : Approx. 4 sec.
• Type : Auto Pop-up

Inputs and Outputs

• Memory Card Slot : Dual memory card slot: Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media SD and SDHC memory card
• Tripod Mount : Yes, 1/4″-20
• USB Port(s) : USB2.0 Hi-speed (mass-storage, PTP)

Convenience

• Anti-dust function : Charge protection coating on low pass filter and image-sensor shift mechanism
• BRAVIA® Sync™ : Yes, via HDMI with compatible BRAVIA HDTV
• Creative Style : Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, B/W Setting Adj. for; Contrast, Saturation, Sharpness
• Dynamic Range Optimizer : DRO; off, Auto/Level (Lv1-5) Auto HDR; off, Auto Exp. (Up to 3EV between 1.0-3.0EV in 0.5EV steps)
• Live View : Quick Auto Focus Live View Manual Focus Check Live View
• Scene Mode(s) : Flash Off, Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports Action, Sunset, Night portrait
• User Interface : “Easy-to-understand Graphic Display and on-screen Help Guide User-friendly function menu”

General

• Camera Type : Sony a Digital SLR camera with built-in flash and inter-changeable lenses
• Color Filter System : RGB primary color filters
• Effective Picture Resolution : Approx. 14.2 megapixels
• Imaging Sensor : APS-C size Exmor™ CMOS sensor (23.5 X 15.6mm)
• Lens Mount Type : Sony a lens, Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lens
• Pixel Gross : Approx. 14.6 megapixels
• Processor : BIONZ™ image processor
• Recording Media Type : Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media, SD and SDHC memory card
• Recording Mode : RAW, RAW+JPEG, JPEG Fine, JPEG Standard
• Still Actual 16:9 : L (12M): 4592 X 2576 M (6.3M): 3344 X 1872 S (2.9M): 2288 X 1280
• Still Actual 3:2 : L (14M): 4592 X 3056 M (7.4M): 344 X 2224 S (3.5M): 2288 X 1520

Software

• Operating System Compatibility : Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional Windows XP*SP2 Windows Vista Mac OS X(v10.1.3) or later
• Supplied Software : PMB (Picture Motion Browser) 4.3.01 Image Data Converter SR 3.1 Image Data Lightbox SR

Control

• AF modes : Single-shot AF, Automatic AF, Continuous AF, (AF/MF selectable)
• Drive Mode : Single-shot, Continuous, Speed Priority, Self-timer, Bracketong; Cont./ WB, Remote Commander
• Exposure Compensation : ±2EV (in 1/3 EV steps)
• Exposure settings : Auto, Auto Flash Off, Program Auto (P), Aperture priority (A), Shutter priority (S), Manual (M)
• Focus Area : Wide (Up to 9 active focus points), Spot, Local (9 local areas selectable)
• Focus Features : Manual Focus Check Live View Predictive control, Focus lock, Eye-start AF, AF illuminator
• Focus Points : 9 points
• Focus Sensitivity : EV0 – 18 (ISO100)
• Focus System : TTL phase detection system
• ISO : Auto, 200 to 12800
• Metering : TTL metering w/ 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC
• Metering Modes : Multi-segment, Center-weighted, Spot
• Metering Sensitivity : 2EV to 20EV (4EV to 20EV with Spot metering), (at ISO 100 conversion with F1.4 lens)
• Scene Selection Modes : Flash Off, Portrait,Landscape,Macro,Sports action,Sunset,Night portrait
• White Balance : Auto,Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Flash, Color temp.,Color Filter, Custom

Our Rating ****~ (4/5)

Good: Inexpensive full-frame dSLR; bright viewfinder; sensor-shift image stabilizer; dual memory card slots; plenty of customizable options.

Bad: No video recording function; high ISO images tend to be too noisy; some buttons hard to access.

This new camera offers almost all features of the company’s flagship full frame DSLR A900, but at a more affordable price.

The Sony DSLR-A850 is built around the same 24.6MP CMOS sensor and incorporates A900′s 3.0 inch 921k LCD, sensor-shift image-stabilization and Dual Bionz processors. The only compromise is a 98% viewfinder coverage against A900′s 100% and slower continuous shooting. To complement this new camera, Sony has also announced a mid-priced 28-75mm constant F2.8 SAM lens to fit with the A850′s affordable full-frame ethos.

The Sony DSLR-A850 will start shipping from September 2009 with the 28-75mm lens available from November 2009.

The camera features an Exmor CMOS sensor with 24.6 effective megapixels plus dual BIONZ processors that support sensitivity settings up to ISO 6400 (with expanded ISO range).

This camera designed for serious enthusiasts. It fully exploits the potential of Sony’s top lenses.

Digital camera world sells the Sony DSLR-A850 Super cheap cameras sell the Sony DSLR-A850  JR camera house sales the Sony DSLR-A850 Digital Camera World sells the Sony DSLR-A850

The camera’s optical glass pentaprism viewfinder aids accurate shot composition, offering a bright view with minimal distortion and an approximate 98% field coverage. Shots can be viewed on the large, high contrast 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD that offers high resolution (921k dot) for critical evaluation – even outdoors or in bright ambient light.

The camera’s 9-point AF system is supplemented by 10 focus assist points to assist subject detection, improved out-of-focus detection to reduce focus hunting and a dedicated f/2.8 sensor for enhanced AF accuracy with wide aperture lenses. An Intelligent Preview function indicates the effects of exposure, white balance, and D-Range Optimiser adjustments prior to shooting. In common with all other Sony DSLR cameras, the A850 features SteadyShot INSIDE in-body optical stabilisation, which delivers up to 4 steps of anti-shake correction with all compatible lenses.

Features

- Full-frame 24.6 effective megapixel Exmor™ CMOS sensor and dual BIONZ processors for detail-packed, low-noise images with high sensitivity up to ISO 6400 (with expanded ISO range)
- Bright optical glass pentaprism viewfinder with 98% coverage
- SteadyShot INSIDE™ offers up to 4.0 steps anti-shake performance with all lenses
- Photo quality (921k dot) 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD
- Fast, high-accuracy 9-point AF with 10 focus assist points

PhotoCracti reviews the A850 and writes:
“image quality is superlative at ISO 100 to 200. My best RAW photos—made with Carl Zeiss ZA lenses at around f/8—are suitable for gallery quality 24×36-inch prints. By ISO 400 some digital noise is apparent, but that’s not a problem in 13×19″ prints.”

PhotoReview.au reviews the A850 and writes:
“Camera response times were similar to the A900 in our tests. The AF system was quick to lock on to subjects, even in dim lighting after dark. Focusing was accurate for more than 90% of the shots we took, regardless of the drive mode selected.“

DigitalTrends reviews the A850 and writes:
“As for digital noise, the bête noir of point-and-shoot digicams and some entry-level DSLRs, it didn’t appear until ISO 800 and wasn’t a problem until hitting 1250. At 3200 and 6400, quality was bad no matter what level of DRO (Dynamic Range Optimization) we used.”

DCR writes:
“With the right lens and the appropriate settings, the camera is capable of producing excellent images both on-screen and in print. Using the 24-70mm Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar f/2.8 lens, images were sharp and detail capture was quite good.”

WDC writes:
“Get the right lens on the front and the a850, just like the a900, can capture significant detail thanks to such a high resolution sensor. Both Raw and Jpeg files respond well to sharpening, though beyond the +/-3 ‘Sharpness’ setting in Creative Styles there is no further in-camera sharpness control, bar the usual Raw file post-processing.”

PopPhoto writes:
“From ISO 100 through 400, it showed about a 1-stop improvement—that is, the A850’s noise level at ISO 400 (Very Low) was about the same as the A900’s noise level at ISO 200. The A850 also bested the older camera’s color accuracy, with an average Delta E of 7.7 (Excellent) versus 9.0 (Extremely High)”.

Ultra-Bright Viewfinder with 98 Percent Coverage
The ultra-bright viewfinder with 98 percent field of view coverage and 0.74x magnification enables accurate framing and preview. It features a high-power condenser lens, an eyepiece with high reflective-index glass, and a multi-layer, anti-reflective coating on optical surfaces to deliver its extraordinarily bright view.

A mirror box features a parallel-link mirror mechanism that moves on two horizontal axes to accommodate both the large full frame mirror and the body-integrated image stabilization system without increasing the camera’s size.

Anti-Shake System for a Full-Frame Sensor
With its body-integrated SteadyShot INSIDE(TM) image stabilization, the camera achieves an anti-shake effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4 stops. The anti-shake system stabilizes all Sony, Minolta and Konica-Minolta compatible lenses even wide angle or large aperture lenses.

Versatility to Unleash Creative Possibilities
Other key features aimed to expand creative options include the Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) with five levels of user-selectable correction as well as DRO bracketing for enhanced scene analysis and graduation optimization. EV bracketing with + / -2EV range makes it easy to create high dynamic range composite images.

With the camera’s HDMI(TM) output and Photo TV HD mode, your creative output can be enjoyed on a compatible HD television. This mode brings the look of actual printed photography to the television, by fine-tuning such image parameters as sharpness, gradation, and color reproduction.

The model features a 3-inch (diagonally), Xtra Fine LCD(TM) screen (921K) making it possible to check focus and image quality with accuracy. It incorporates an easy-to-see display with a quick navigation menu to easily access common functions without interrupting your creative flow. A backlit LCD panel sits on top of the camera and displays key settings.

The camera includes dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM), Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo(TM), HX series and CompactFlash(R) media.

Bright Lens
The choice of full-frame lenses to complement the a850 model is enhanced with the new SAL2875 28-75mm F2.8 SAM lens. This compact, easy-to-carry lens is ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to add a bright, general purpose zoom to their collection of full-frame optics.

Delivering excellent imaging quality at an accessible price, it offers a wide F2.8 aperture over its entire zoom range. Ideal for day-to-day shooting tasks, its bright constant aperture makes the 28-75mm F2.8 SAM particularly valuable for depth-of-field control and available-light portraits.

Specifications:

Body material
• Magnesium Body

Sensor
• 35.9 x 24.0 mm CMOS sensor ‘Exmor’
• RGB Color Filter Array
• Built-in fixed low-pass filter
• 25.7 million total pixels
• 24.6 million effective pixels
• On-chip Column A/D Conversion & NR

Image sizes [Still]
• 6048 x 4032 (24M 3:2)
• 4400 x 2936 (13M 3:2)
• 3024 x 2016 (6.1M 3:2)
• 6048 x 3408 (21M 16:9)
• 4400 x 2472 (11M 16:9)
• 3024 x 1704 (5.2M 16:9)
• 3924 x 2656 (11M APSC)
• 2896 x 1928 (5.6M APSC)
• 1984 x 1320 (2.6M APSC)

File qualities / formats
• RAW (.ARW 2.0)
• Compressed or uncompressed RAW option
• RAW + JPEG Fine
• JPEG Extra Fine
• JPEG Fine
• JPEG Standard

Dust reduction
• Charge protection coating on low-pass filter
• CCD-shift dust reduction mechanism

Lenses
• Sony Alpha lenses
(also compatible with Minolta A-type bayonet mount lenses)
• Can be used with DT (1.5x crop) lenses in APS-C mode

FOV crop
• 1.0 x

Image Stabilization
• CCD-Shift ‘ SteadyShot INSIDE’ system
• Five level LED shake indicator in viewfinder
• Claimed equivalent to 2.5 EV- 4 EV steps in shutter speed

Auto Focus
• TTL CCD line sensors (9-points, center dual cross types + 10 assist sensors)
• EV 0 to 18 (ISO 100) detection range
• Predictive focus control for moving subjects

AF area selection
• Wide AF area
• Spot AF area (center)
• Focus area selection (any of 9)

Focus modes
• Single-shot AF
• Direct Manual Focus
• Continuous AF
• Automatic AF
• Manual focus
• AF micro adjustment (+/- 20 steps for up to 30 lenses)

AF assist illuminator
• Yes (built-in LED lamp)
• Range approx 1m – 7m

Eye-start AF
• No

Shooting modes
• Auto
• Programmed Auto (with shift)
• Aperture priority AE
• Shutter priority AE
• Manual
• MR (memory recall) / Custom

Sensitivity
• Auto (200 – 1600) – upper/lower limit selectable
• ISO 200
• ISO 400
• ISO 800
• ISO 1600
• ISO 3200
• ISO 100,ISO 125,ISO 160, ISO 4000, ISO 5000, ISO 6400 (expanded range)

Metering modes
• Multi-segment (40 segment Honeycomb pattern)
• Center-weighted
• Spot

Metering range
• TTL metering
• 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC
• EV 0 to 20 (Multi-segment / Center-weighted)
• EV 2 to 20 (Spot metering)
(at ISO 100 with F1.4 lens)

AE Lock
• AEL button (customizable)
• Half-press shutter release

AE Bracketing
• Single or continuous bracketing
• 3 or 5 frames
• 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 or 2.0 EV steps*
*2.0 EV steps for 3 frames only

Exposure compen.
• -3.0 to +3.0 EV
• 0.3 or 0.5 EV steps

Shutter
• Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane Shutter

Shutter Speed
• 30 to 1/8000 sec
• Bulb

Flash X-sync
• 1/250 sec
• 1/200 sec (with SteadyShot INSIDE on)

Aperture values
• Depends on lens, 0.3 EV steps

DOF preview
• Yes, dedicated button

White balance
• Auto
• Daylight
• Shade
• Cloudy
• Tungsten
• Fluorescent
• Flash
• Color temperature (2500 – 9900 K)
• Manual (Custom) – 3 memories

White balance fine tuning
• Auto (none)
• Preset WB: -3 to +3
• Fluorescent WB: -2 to +4
• Color temperature WB: G9 to M9 (19 step Magenta / Green compensation)

White balance bracketing
• 3 frames
• Hi or Lo steps

Dynamic range optimizer
• Off
• Standard
• Advanced Auto
• Advanced
• DRO advanced bracketing (3 frames, High/Low selectable)

Color space
• sRGB
• Adobe RGB

Color modes
• Standard
• Vivid
• Neutral
• Clear
• Deep
• Light
• Portrait
• Landscape
• Sunset
• Night view
• Autumn Leaves
• B&W
• Sepia

Image parameters
• Contrast (-3 to +3)
• Saturation (-3 to +3)
• Sharpness (-3 to +3)
• Zone Matching (-1 to +2 steps)
• Brightness (-3 to +3 steps)
(Available in all color modes)

Noise reduction
• Long exposure for exposures longer than 1 second (User controllable: On / Off)
• High ISO NR High/Normal/Low/Off at ISO 1600 or higher

Viewfinder
• Eye-level fixed optical glass pentaprism
• Spherical Acute Matte focusing screen (interchangeable)
• Magnification approx. 0.74x
• 98% frame coverage*
• Dioptric adjustment (-3 to +1.0)
• Eye-relief 20 mm from eyepiece
• Eyepiece cup removable
• Eyepiece shutter built-in
• Viewfinder info bar

LCD monitor
• 3.0″ ‘Xtra Fine’ TFT LCD
• 921,600 pixels (640 x 480 x 3 (RGB))
• 100% coverage
• Brightness setting -/+
• Anti-reflective coating

Flash compensation
• -3.0 to +3.0 EV in 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 2.0 EV steps

Flash Mode
• Auto, Fill-Flash, Rear sync , High Speed Sync

External flash (optional)
• Sony HVL-F58M
• Sony HVL-F56M
• Sony HVL-F42M
• Sony HVL-F36M
• Macro Twin Flash Kit HVL-MT24AM
• Ring Light HVL-RLAM
• Off camera flash shoe FA-CS1 AM

Drive modes
• Single-frame
• Continuous (H/L selectable)
• Self-timer (10 or 2 sec)
• Mirror-Up
• Continuous bracket
• Single-frame bracket
• White balance bracket
• DRO bracket
• Mirror Lock-Up
• Remote Commander

Continuous shooting
Approx 3 fps max
• RAW: Up to 16 frames
• cRAW (compressed): Up to 18 frames
• RAW+JPEG: Up to12 frames
• cRAW+JPEG : Up to 12 frames
• JPEG (XFINE): Up to 34 frames
• JPEG (STD/FINE): 593/384

Self-timer
• 10 sec
• 2 sec
• Mirror up function (optional)
• Remote control

Orientation sensor
• Yes, for shooting, playback and control panel display

Connectivity
• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed (mass storage, Multi-LUN or PTP)
• Video out (NTSC or PAL)
• HDMI type C mini jack
• DC-IN
• Remote terminal
• PC control (with supplied software)

Remote control
• Wired: with optional RM-S1AM or RM-L1AM
• Wireless: with optional RM-DSLR1)

Video out
• AV (Selectable NTSC or PAL)
• HDMI (1920 x 1080i, 1280 x 720p, 720 x 580p, 720 x 576p)
• ‘PhotoTV’ HD settings applied with BRAVIA.

Storage
• Compact Flash Type I/II, UDMA Mode 5 compliant
• Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo, PRO-HG Duo
• Supports FAT12 / FAT16 / FAT32

Power
• NP-FM500H Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery (1650 mAh)
• CR2025 Wireless remote
• Battery charger included
• Optional AC adapter
• Battery life Approx 880 shots (CIPA standard)

Vertical grip
• Vertical Grip VG-C90AM
• One or Two NP-FM500H batteries with auto switchover for power (additional battery is optional).

Dimensions
• 156 x 117 x 82 mm

Weight (body)
• 850 g

Our Rating ***~~ (3/5)

Good: Capable of shooting some very nice photos; fast Live View AF and single-shot performance; tiltable LCD; dual card slots; relatively simple, straightforward operation; built-in wireless flash and image stabilization.

Bad: Smallish grip; middling viewfinder; color shifts with default settings.

The Sony Alpha 380 has been styled for comfortable handling. Control layout on the Sony Alpha A380 has been revised with fewer buttons, so even first-time DSLR users don’t need to feel intimidated by the creative options on offer.

CNET writes:
“A380 has a fairly typical noise profile that unsurprisingly matches that of the A330/A230–sharpness starts to degrade at about ISO 400, color noise begins to seep in at ISO 800, and by ISO 1600 images become both soft and noisy. But the extra resolution doesn’t seem to provide enough extra sharpness to compensate for the A380’s softer, noisier results at every level starting at ISO 400.”

Rating:

PCWorld writes:
“Good points High resolution for this kind of model; large and responsive buttons; on-screen help; uncluttered controls. Bad points Plastic look and feel; screen mechanism stiff; Live View depletes battery”

Rating:

PhotographyBlog writes:
“image noise is noticeably lurking in the shadows at ISO 800, but by ISO 1600 noise reduction has kicked in, reducing the effects without smoothing out surrounding detail to a ruinous degree.”

Rating:

Pocket-Lint writes:
“The good: Lightweight, user friendly, intuitive, reliable performance, warm, colour rich images, adjustable LCD, less expensive than immediate rivals. The bad: No HD video, hinges for adjusting LCD are stiff, obvious plastic elements of build, kit lens could be sharper, noisier than rivals at higher ISOs. Verdict: A reliable performer delivering richly detailed and colourful images, though you might want to trade up from the kit lens fairly quickly”

Rating:

CNET.UK writes:
“The Sony Alpha DSLR-A380’s pictures and specs are decent, but, apart from its better kit lens, it doesn’t improve significantly on the DSLR-A350. It also costs more and feels cheaper. Maybe Sony thinks there’s plenty of mileage left in the old tech yet, but, as upgrades go, this is pretty thin”

Rating:

PhotoReview.au writes:
“Low-light performance was very good, with accurate colours in long exposures (up to 20 seconds) and no apparent noise in exposures up to ISO 400 but increasing progressively thereafter. Colour noise was evident at ISO 3200 and some shadow detail was lost with this setting.”

Rating:

LetsGoDigital writes:
“The image quality stands strongly and is at least comparable to that of its predecessor. Certain items such as the dynamic range have slightly improved, while the performance of the white balance metering has even clearly improved. And although the Sony A380 does not show an improved signal/noise ratio, we are still satisfied with the overall final result.”

Rating:

TechReader writes:
“Even at low ISO settings and in good light, the A380’s sensor delivers JPEG files that require quite a lot of sharpening before they appear properly crisp. Coloured noise is visible in shadows and neutral midtones at ISO 200, getting much worse as the ISO sensitivity is increased.”

Rating:

Sample Photos

- Sample Photos @ CameraLabs

- Sample Photos @ PhotographyBlog

- Sample Photos @ PhotographyBlog

- Sample Photos @ LetsGoDigital

A large 2.7-inch (diag.) Clear Photo LCD Plus display features Live View with Quick Auto Focus, which lets you compose and shoot pictures in real-time using the LCD, just as you would with a point-and-shoot camera. In addition, the LCD display tilts up or down for low or high-angle shooting situations, such as capturing a child’s first steps or shooting over a crowd.

SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization is built into each camera body, so every a-mount lens benefits from the ability to minimize blur due to camera shake.

An HDMI terminal gives you the option of connecting your camera to a compatible HDTV and playing back your images in stunning high definition quality(HDMI cable required, sold separately). In addition, BRAVIA Sync works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs to let you control camera playback using the television’s remote (HDMI cable and BRAVIA Sync capable HDTV required, sold separately).

A broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables you to capture beautiful color images even in very dim light – with High ISO Noise Reduction technology that reduces picture noise artifacts at high-sensitivity ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 settings by eliminating noise from RAW data after analog-to-digital conversion.

Continuous Shooting lets you shoot at up to 2.5 fps (frames per second) while viewing your subject through the optical viewfinder so you never lose track of the action.
Creative Style settings give you control over how the camera processes your images. Choose from 8 finishing styles, including Standard, Vivid, Potrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, B&W, and Adobe RGB, and fine tune them to your personal taste with the ability to adjust contrast, saturation, and sharpness settings.

Smart Teleconverter 2x Digital Zoom lets you zoom in electronically on your subject and reproduces pixels on a 1:1 basis so there’s no degradation in picture quality. One touch zooms in at 1.4X, while the second touch advances to 2x zoom — creating the 35mm equivalent of a telephoto effect with the camera’s standard 18-55mm optical zoom lens.

The advanced BIONZ image processor uses hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry to enhance images with rich tonal reproduction, reduced noise, and improved white balance and exposure control, for clear, sharp photos even at high sensitivity settings.

PhotoTV HD compatibility lets you automatically create high-resolution thumbnails optimized for viewing on a compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTV.

Scene Selection Modes optimize camera settings for different shooting situations. Just turn the Mode Dial to select from Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset, and Night View modes.

Specifications:

Battery
Battery type(s): InfoLithium
Battery Charger: External power adapter

Camera
Optical sensor: CCD
Megapixels: 14.2 megapixels
Light sensitivity: Auto ISO, ISO 100, ISO 200, ISO 400, ISO 600, ISO 800, ISO 1000, ISO 1200, ISO 1250, ISO 1600, ISO 2000, ISO 2500, ISO 3200
White balance: Automatic, Cloudy, Custom, Daylight, Fluorescent, Shade, Tungsten, Flash
LCD display size: 2.7 inch
Flash type: Built-in
Tripod Mount: Yes
Lens zoom (dSLR only): 18-55 mm

Connectivity
PC Connection: USB, HDMI

General
Camera Type: Digital SLR
Dimensions (H x W x D): 97 x 128 x 71.4 mm
Weight: 489 g
Available colours: Black

Other
Cables: Video, Battery charger
Other features: Picture Motion Browser software
Included accessories: Body cap, Body cap, Shoulder strap

Still images
Still image resolution (max): 3872 x 2576 pixels

Storage
Storage type(s): Memory Stick PRO Duo, Secure Digital Card, Secure Digital High Capacity
Internal memory: MB

Our Rating ****~ (4/5)

Good: Fast Live View AF and single-shot performance; tiltable LCD; dual card slots; relatively simple, straightforward operation; built-in wireless flash and image stabilization; helpful SteadyShot indicator.

Bad: Smallish grip; middling viewfinder; default settings produce suboptimal photos.

The Sony A330 DSLR camera features a tiltable 2.7-inch (diag.) LCD screen, SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization and 10.2 megapixel resolution.

The Sony A330 features a stylish, modern design with an intuitive button layout for easier operation. In addition, the lightweight body and revised grip make the camera more comfortable to hold and carry.

SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization is built into each camera body, so every a-mount lens benefits from the ability to minimize blur due to camera shake.

A 10.2-megapixel APS-size CCD image sensor captures your images in stunning detail, giving you the freedom to make large prints and tight crops without sacrificing quality.

An HDMI terminal gives you the option of connecting your camera to a compatible HDTV and playing back your images in stunning high definition quality (HDMI cable required, sold separately). In addition, BRAVIA Sync works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs to let you control camera playback using the television’s remote (HDMI cable and BRAVIA Sync capable HDTV required, sold separately).

9-Point Center Cross AF Sensor with improved focus control to help bring images into sharp definition more quickly, and predictive focus control automatically calculates the position of fast-moving subjects.

Continuous Shooting lets you shoot at up to 2.5 fps (frames per second) while viewing your subject through the optical viewfinder so you never lose track of the action.

Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the CCD imager clean, resulting in consistently better pictures, by utilizing a static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter, as well as an anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the CCD to help dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.

Stamina Battery power allows you to take up to 510 shots on a fully charged NP-FM50 InfoLITHIUM battery when using the optical viewfinder mode, and you’ll be able to see how much power remains in percentage increments, so you can keep shooting in confidence.

Scene Selection Modes optimize camera settings for different shooting situations. Just turn the Mode Dial to select from Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset, and Night View modes.

Index and Slide Show Display enable you to quickly review your photos using 4, 9 or 25-frame index views, or as an automatic slide show with fade-in/fade-out effect.

Function Guide Display provides intuitive and easy to use on-screen menus that can be activated and operated with one hand using the Fn (Function) button and controller button to adjust Flash mode, Autofocus mode, White Balance, Metering mode, AF area and D-Range Optimizer.

PCAuthority writes:

“The A330 is a perfectly capable DSLR, streamlined and easier to use than the previous generation. But beyond ease of use it offers nothing we haven’t seen before. It’s a good camera, but it’s currently too expensive to recommend over its predecessor.”
Rating:

Shutterbug writes:

“I was pleased with the image quality from the camera. The 10.2-megapixel (30+MB open size) images yielded very good 13×19” prints with a full range of color and tone…In all, this is a very nice beginner D-SLR that borrows from its more advanced cousins to yield very good image quality and some quite creative shooting options. It delivers all you could want for the price and certainly should be considered a competitive model in its class. “

Rating: N/A

GoodGearGuide writes:

“In terms of digital noise, the a330 performed admirably, holding down the ugly chromatic noise until ISO 400, and much of the time, even ISO 800. (The camera offers an ISO range from 100 to 3200.)”
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Steve’sDigicams writes:

“It produces pleasing photos in a variety of shooting environments, offers speedy performance, plenty of user-friendly exposure options, terrific high ISO results, and is comfortable to use/hold. With a street price…. we feel the Sony DSLR-A330 offers a great value for the capabilities and quality you are receiving. “
Rating: N/A

TrustedReviews writes:

“A330 is distinctly an entry-level model, with a limited range of features and options. While those upgrading from a compact camera will feel right at home, more experienced photographers will find its limitations restrictive. Build quality is adequate and the camera looks good, but the new body design is awkward to use. “
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PhotographyBlog writes:

“A330 produced images of very high quality. The shots exhibit a pleasing combination of nice colours and wide dynamic range. Noise is not a real problem up to ISO 800, though it does become rather noticeable at ISO 1600″
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TechRadar writes:

“Overall performance of the exposure system was impressive. It consistently delivered fine exposures and was difficult to fool. Only in extreme lighting did we experience duff exposures.”
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PhotographyBay writes:

“Sony A330 is an excellent camera for those of you looking to make the switch from a point and shoot camera to a DSLR. If you like being able to frame your scene on the back of the camera’s LCD, you’ll love the A330. The fast autofocus during Live View shooting blows the competition away – sorry, Canon and Nikon, you’re behind the curve on this one.”
Rating: N/A

ePhotozine writes:

“So the Sony Alpha A330 was squaring up to be a distinctly average camera then it came to the noise test and blew me away….I really like the noise test results, I think it takes good portraits and the colour test chart provided fruitful. If I was in the market for a mid-range DSLR, this would be in my top three. “
Rating:

Samples:

- Sample Photos @ CameraLabs

-Sample Photos @ Steve’sDigicams

- Sample Photos @ TrustedReviews

-  Sample Photos @ PhotographyBlog

- Sample Photos @ CNET

- Sample Photos ISO: 100 – 400 – 3200 @ PhotographyBay

Specifications:

General:
* Product Type: Digital camera – SLR with Live View mode
* Width: 5 in
* Depth: 2.8 in
* Height: 3.8 in
* Weight: 17.3 oz
* Enclosure Color: Black

Main Features:
* Resolution: 10.2 megapixels
* Color Support: Color
* Optical Sensor Type: Super HAD CCD
* Total Pixels: 10,800,000 pixels
* Effective Sensor Resolution: 10,200,000 pixels
* Field of View Crop Factor: 1.5
* Sensor Dust Reduction: Yes
* Sensor Features: Anti-Dust coating , Dust Reduction (image sensor vibration)
* Light Sensitivity: ISO auto , ISO 100-3200
* Digital Zoom: 2 x
* Shooting Programs: Macro , Sunset , Landscape , Sports mode , Portrait mode , Night portrait
* Special Effects: Vivid , Sunset , Neutral , Portrait , Landscape , Night View , Black & White
* Image Stabilizer: Optical (SteadyShot INSIDE)
* Max Shutter Speed: 1/4000 sec
* Min Shutter Speed: 30 sec
* X-sync Speed: 1/160 sec
* Exposure Metering: Spot , Multi-segment , Center-weighted
* Exposure Modes: Bulb ,  Manual ,  Program ,  Automatic ,  Shutter-priority ,  Aperture-priority
* Exposure Range: EV 2-20 ( ISO 100 )
* Exposure Compensation: 2 EV range, in 1/3 EV steps
* Auto Exposure Bracketing: 3 steps
* Exposure Metering Zones: 40
* White Balance: Custom , Presets , Automatic
* White Balance Presets: Flash , Shade , Cloudy , Daylight , Fluorescent , Tungsten light
* Still Image Format: RAW ,  JPEG ,  RAW + JPEG
* Remote Control: Optional
* TV Tuner: None

Memory / Storage:
* Supported Flash Memory: SD Memory Card ,  Memory Stick Duo ,  Memory Stick PRO Duo
* Floppy Drive: None
* Image Storage: RAW JPEG , RAW+JPEG RAW 3872 x 2592 , Fine 2896 x 1936 , Standard 1920 x 1280 , 3872 x 2176 , 2896 x 1632 , 1920 x 1088

Camera Flash:
* Camera Flash: Pop-up flash
* Guide Number (m / ISO 100): 10
* Flash Modes: Auto mode ,  Fill-in mode ,  Slow synchro ,  Flash OFF mode ,  Rear curtain sync ,  Red-eye reduction
* Red Eye Reduction: Yes
* Features: AF illuminator , Flash +/- compensation , Wireless off-camera control

Lens System:
* Type: Zoom lens – 18 mm – 55 mm – F/3.5-5.6 DT SAM
* Focal Length: 18 mm – 55 mm
* Focal Length Equivalent to 35mm Camera: 27 – 82.5 mm
* Focus Adjustment: Manual ,  Automatic
* Auto Focus: TTL phase detection
* Auto Focus Points (Zones): 9
* Min Focus Range: 9.8 in
* Max View Angle: 76 degrees
* Lens Aperture: F/3.5-5.6
* Optical Zoom: 3 x
* Zoom Adjustment: Manual
* Lens Construction: 7 group(s) / 8 element(s)
* Filter Size: 55 mm
* Lens System Mounting: Minolta A-type
* Features: ED glass , Aspherical lens , Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM)

Additional Features:
* Self Timer: Yes
* Self Timer Delay: 2 sec , 10 sec
* Flash Terminal: Hot shoe
* Additional Features: AF lock , DPOF support , Date/time stamp , Histogram display , Sharpness control , Brightness control , Exif Print support , LCD live view mode , PictBridge support , Saturation control , Built-in help guide , Eye-Start AF system , PRINT Image Matching , USB 2.0 compatibility , Digital image rotation , Digital tele-converter , Dynamic Range Optimizer , RGB primary color filter , Automatic display brightness adjustment

Viewfinder:
* Viewfinder Type: Optical – Eye-level penta-dach mirror
* Viewfinder Color Support: Color
* Field Coverage: 95%
* Magnification: 0.74x
* Dioptric Correction Range: -2.5 to +1
* Viewfinder Frames: Autofocus frame

Display:
* Type: LCD display – TFT active matrix – 2.7 in – Color
* Display Form Factor: Folding
* Display Format: 230,400 pixels

Digital Player (Recorder):
* Type: None

Microphone:
* Type: None – Built-in

Connections:
* Connector Type: 1 x USB , 1 x HDMI output , 1 x Composite video output
* Expansion Slot(s): 1 x Memory Stick PRO Duo , 1 x SD Memory Card

Software:
* Software: Drivers & Utilities , Sony Image Data Lightbox SR , Sony Picture Motion Browser , Sony Image Data Converter SR

System Requirements for PC Connection:
* Operating System Support: MS Windows XP , MS Windows Vista , MS Windows 2000 Professional , Apple Mac OS X 10.1.3 or later
* Peripheral Devices: USB port , CD-ROM drive

Miscellaneous:
* Included Accessories: Body cap , Dust cap , Lens cap , Shoulder strap
* Cables Included: 1 , USB cable , Video cable

Power:
* Power Device: Battery charger – External

Battery:
* Supported Battery: Sony NP-FH50
* Supported Battery: 1 x Li-ion rechargeable battery ( Included )

Manufacturer Warranty:
* Service & Support: 1 year warranty
* Service & Support Details: Limited warranty – Parts and labor – 1 year