- 12.3-megapixel resolution for incredible detail; new Sony Exmor CMOS image sensor.
- Included 18-55mm lens covers everything from wide angle to midrange telephoto s, features Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) for silent operation.
- Quick Auto Focus Live View for composing s in the LCD monitor; Manual Focus Check Live View enables critical focus in macro and tripod shooting.
- Auto HDR (High Dynamic Range) captures more scene contrast than a single exposure can handle by combining two exposures into one .
- Dual media slots for Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC media (sold separately).
From the Manufacturer
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Step up to the Sony a500. Enjoy the spectacular imagery of 12.3
megapixels with ISO 12800 sensitivity. Experience the versatility
of Quick Auto Focus Live View or MF Check Live View on the
tiltable 3.0-inch LCD screen. Discover the superb response of up
to 5 fps of continuous shooting.
Alpha A500 Highlights
12.3 megapixels for amazing pictures
This camera's 12.3-megapixel resolution makes for incredible
detail and gorgeous ments. The all-new Sony Exmor CMOS
image sensor ensures state-of-the-art response. The large, APS-C
format means high sensitivity, powerful depth-of-focus control.
Superb in low light (ISO 12800)
An all-new Sony's Exmor CMOS image sensor employs new low-noise
processing, for uncommonly clear pictures. The BIONZ image
processor with chroma noise reduction helps achieve low noise all
the way up to ISO 12800, without sacrificing resolution.
More responsive Live View
All DSLR Live View systems enable you to compose s in the
LCD monitor, just as you would with a point-and-shoot camera. But
not all Live View systems are created equal. Some take a
painfully long time to focus. Some even black out the LCD before
focus. Either can cause you to miss s. Sony's Quick Auto
Focus Live View solves these problems, making it easier to get
the best .
Quick Auto Focus Live View
Unlike competing cameras, the DSLR-A500 is just as responsive in
Quick Auto Focus Live View mode as in optical viewfinder mode.
That's because, unlike the others, the a500 uses the same "phase
detection" auto focus for Live View as for the optical
viewfinder. While other Live View systems are severely
restricted, Sony's performs superbly any time--even if you're
shooting handheld or chasing after moving subjects like kids or
pets.
Manual Focus Check Live View
For critical focus in macro and tripod shooting, the a500 also
offers Manual Focus Check Live View. 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.
Face Detection technology
The a500 enhances Quick AF Live View shooting with Face
Detection technology, which helps you get the best by
recognizing faces and applying the proper focus, exposure and
white balance. World's first Face Detection system to work with
fast, high-precision "phase detection" Auto Focus.
Smile Shutter technology
Another Quick AF Live View enhancement, Smile Shutter technology
automatically takes the when your subject smiles. Works with
Quick Auto Focus Live View to capture spontaneous moments, making
the difference between a missed and a cherished memory.
Tiltable 3.0-inch LCD
Even if you're completely comfortable with the optical
viewfinder, Sony's tiltable LCD empowers your photography with a
different point of view. Helps you frame high and low-angle s
that would otherwise be hit or miss. The LCD tilts up or down 90
degrees to capture a child's first steps or shoot over a crowd.
The 3.0-inch LCD features 230,000 pixels and Sony's Clear Photo
LCD display technology.
Up to 5 fps of continuous shooting
Up to 5 frames per second (with optical viewfinder) can capture
the decisive moment in sports or get the ideal baby photo. You
can also shoot at up to 4 fps with Quick Auto Focus Live View.
Auto HDR built into camera
High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography captures more scene
contrast than a single exposure can handle by combining two
exposures into one incredible . Until recently, you needed a
computer and editing software to enjoy HDR. Now the a500 has Auto
HDR built in. Handles severe backlighting and other high-contrast
scenes. Captures in a split second. (Recommended for still
subjects.)
Dynamic Range Optimizer
Dynamic Range Optimizer improves results with backlit subjects
and recovers details hidden in shadows. Normal DRO improves
detail using standard gamma curves for fast -to- response
time, while Advanced DRO adjusts dynamic range area-by-area for
greater accuracy.
Steady INSIDE stabilization
Image stabilization helps you take blur-free s by
compensating for camera shake. Typical DSLR systems build image
stabilization into selected lenses only. Steady INSIDE image
stabilization is built into the camera body itself. You'll reduce
blur with every a- lens, including macro and wide-aperture
standard zoom lenses.
Smart Teleconverter 2x Digital Zoom
In Quick Auto Focus Live View mode, you can extend the optical
zoom of your lens with digital zoom. One touch zooms in at 1.4x,
while a second touch advances to 2x zoom. The system reproduces
pixels on a 1:1 basis so there's no degradation in picture
quality.
Powerful Supplied Software
To help you refine and manage your images, the a500 is equipped
with comprehensive computer software, including Image Data
Converter SR, Image Data Lightbox SR and Picture Motion Browser
(PMB).(Compatible computer required, not included).
BIONZ image processor
A newest version of Sony's BIONZ image processor uses chroma
noise reduction to deliver high-resolution, low-noise photos even
at ISO 12800 sensitivity. This powerful Sony Large Scale
Integrated circuit (LSI) also delivers fast processing for quick
response on data-intensive 12.3-megapixel images.
Help Guide and Graphic Display
An informative on-screen Help Guide and Graphic Display provide
ready reference to advanced camera functions. The Help Guide
explains the camera's modes and settings, while the Graphic
Display clarifies the relationship between aperture and shutter
speed, as well as the effect each has on photographic results.
HDMI output for HD viewing
Connect your camera to a compatible HDTV and play back your
images in stunning high definition. The a500 includes an HDMI
output (HDMI cable required, sold separately). In addition, the
BRAVIA Sync system works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs to let
you control camera playback using the television's remote.
Eye-Start Autofocus
For maximum speed, Eye-Start Autofocus begins focusing as soon
as you raise the camera to your eye. So the camera is ready to
catch the perfect moment.
9-Point AF Sensor
To get the best under a wide range of situations, the a500
uses a 9-Point AF Sensor with Center Cross. In addition,
predictive focus control automatically calculates the position of
fast-moving subjects, perfect for pictures of kids and pets.
Six Creative Style settings
Control how the camera processes your images with six finishing
styles: Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset and B&W. You
can even fine-tune contrast, saturation, and sharpness to your
personal taste.
Built-in Auto Pop-Up Flash
To help you shoot more effectively, the built-in flash
automatically pops up and fires as needed when the camera is set
to certain scene selection modes. The built-in flash also
triggers a wireless accessory flash (sold separately). The
integrated hot shoe enables you to expand your lighting options
with a range of accessory flashes (sold separately).
Anti-Dust Technology
Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the CMOS imager clean, resulting
in consistently better pictures. First a static-free coating on
the CMOS filter helps repel dust. Then vibration automatically
dislodges dust from the CMOS each time you shut off the camera.
Up to a 1000 s of battery life
Take up to 1000 s on a single charge (optical viewfinder
mode)1; up to 520 s (Live View mode) with Sony Stamina
battery power. Sony's InfoLITHIUM battery system enables you to
see the percent of power remaining, so you can keep shooting in
confidence.
PhotoTV HD compatibility
PhotoTV HD compatibility enables you to automatically create
high-resolution thumbnails optimized for viewing on a compatible
Sony BRAVIA HDTV.
Six Scene Selection Modes
To help you get the , Scene Selection Modes optimize the
camera settings for common shooting situations. Just turn the
Mode Dial to select from Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports,
Sunset, and Night View modes.
Index and Slide Show Display
Quickly review your photos using 4- or 9-frame index views, or
as an automatic slide show with fade-in/fade-out effect.
Dual Media Slots
For cost-effective, convenient storage and sharing of your
images, the a500 accepts Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG
Duo and SD/SDHC media (sold separately).
Supplied zoom lens (DSLR-A500L kit)
The DSLR-A500L kit comes with the SAL1855 DT 18-55mm zoom lens,
which covers everything from wide angle to midrange telephoto
s. Sony's Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) delivers silent
autofocus operation.