Models Provide DSLR Performance, Full HD Video, Sweep Panorama, APS-C sensor and Low-Light Capability in an Unprecedented Compact Design

SAN DIEGO, May 10, 2010 Sony today introduced two innovative (alpha) compact interchangeable lens digital cameras (models NEX-5 and NEX-3) that provide the quality of a digital SLR in a compact body that is easy to slip into a small purse or jacket pocket for ultimate portability.

Consumers want better picture quality in a smaller form factor. Sony has made that a reality with these cameras. The NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras truly embody Sony’s make.believe spirit, said Kristen Elder, director of Sony’s alpha digital imaging business. These new cameras are the game-changers everyone has been waiting for and will revolutionize the consumer experience by offering outstanding picture quality with a totally pocketable size.

With breakthrough video performance, these models are the world s first interchangeable lens cameras with an APS-C sensor to continuously adjust focus and exposure while recording video. The NEX-5 camera offers Full HD movie capture (1080i AVCHD and 720p MP4) with Full HD 60i recording.

These cameras are perfect for point-and-shoot users looking to advance from snapshots to creative photography as well as existing DSLR users searching for a no-compromise compact alternative.

Innovative Design

Unlike conventional DSLR models, the mirrorless construction of the new models reduces the thickness of both camera bodies to just about an inch at their slimmest point (excluding grip and mount portions). The NEX-5, constructed from magnesium alloy, and the NEX-3, with a polycarbonate casing, offer a newly developed 14.2 megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor. About 60 percent larger than the sensor in micro four-thirds cameras, this sensor is key to the exceptional image quality, extremely low image noise and creative defocus background effects that are familiar to DSLR users.

HD Movie Recording and Fast, Silent Autofocus

The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are the first cameras to offer the extra convenience of high definition video recording. In addition to 720p HD recording, the NEX-5 also captures Full HD (1920 x 1080i) video in high-quality AVCHD files that can be easily enjoyed on a compatible HD television via the cameras built-in HDMI terminal (cable not included). The NEX-3 shoots 720p HD video as compact MP4 files. Both Sony cameras include built-in stereo microphones for high-quality audio recording.

Still and video image quality is further refined by Sony’s powerful BIONZ processor that ensures quick DSLR-style shooting response with fast, precise autofocus and minimal shutter lag. Both cameras can also capture fast-moving action with a high-speed burst of full-resolution images at up to 7fps (AF/AE fixed from first frame).

Sweep Panorama

The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are the first cameras featuring Sweep Panorama. Capturing large group shots is as easy as press-and-sweep. Sweep Panorama mode lets consumers capture breathtaking shots up to 226-degree horizontal or 151-degree vertical shots.

Both models will be ready for 3D Sweep Panorama this July (with firmware update). With 3D Sweep Panorama mode, these cameras can shoot 3D panoramic still images with a single lens. The high-speed burst of frames is stitched together using innovative processing techniques to automatically create detail-packed 3D panoramas. These files can be enjoyed in stunning 3D on compatible 3D televisions (other accessories may be required).

These cameras provide the advantages of multi-frame capture featured in Cyber-shot cameras, including Hand-Held Twilight and Anti-motion Blur modes, which offer extraordinary low-light performance.

Simple To Use

Overcoming the complexity and intimidation that often come along with DSLR use, the NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras have a new easy-to-use interface. It makes their performance advantages and features including the techniques of creative photography simple to master for consumers stepping up from compact digital still cameras and simultaneously offers easy access to the important camera controls that DSLR users demand.

Images and camera settings are displayed on the 3-inch (diagonal)wide-typeXtra FineLCD display withTruBlack technology and 921kdot high resolution LCD that tilts up or down for comfortable viewing in any shooting position. The screen features an auto-brightness control function for excellent visibility, even outdoors. TruBlack screen technology enables an even more vivid, high-contrast view of images and camera settings.

E-Mount Lenses

Three new E-mount lenses are being introduced, including a 16mmF2.8 wide angle prime lens (model number SEL16F28), an 18mm-55mmF3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens(model number SEL1855)and an 18mm-200mmF3.5-6.3 (model number SEL18200) high magnification zoom lens.

The E-mount lenses provide the cameras with extreme compactness as well as the performance required for quiet continuous auto focus and auto exposure during HD video capture. These all new lenses are of premium construction, with brushed aluminium barrels and steel mounts. An optional LA-EA1 Mount Adaptor extends compatibility to the family of 30 lenses, plus a huge range of other legacy A-mount lenses (Manual Focus only).

Ideal for everyday shooting, the low-profile E 16mmF2.8 lens minimizes bulk, allowing the camera to easily be carried in a coat, pants pocket, or purse. This lens creative possibilities can be expanded even further by the VCL-ECU1 Ultra Wide Converter which provides a 12mm view, and VCL-ECF1 Fisheye Converter that delivers impressive curvi-linear distortion.

Featuring in-lens Optical SteadyShot image stabilization for clearer handheld images, the E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS zoom is a perfect travel partner. The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are available in kit form with either the 16mm prime or the 18mm-55mm lens. The E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS zoom lens offers a powerful 11x magnification range plus Optical SteadyShot image stabilization with Active mode that is used in the most advanced Handycam camcorders.

Accessories

Both cameras are supplied with a super-compact clip-on flash that attaches via the smart accessory terminal when needed. Other optional accessories include the FDA-SV1 Optical Viewfinder plus stylish cases and shoulder straps.

As an option, the accessory shoe on both cameras accepts a compact ECM-SST1 Stereo Microphone that captures even more high-quality sound for HD video recordings than the cameras built-in stereo recording.

The new cameras accept both Memory Stick PRO Duo (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo)and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media (all sold separately). Sony’s new Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX offers 30MB per second transfer rates that save you time when downloading images.

Pricing and Availability

The NEX-5A and NEX-3A cameras, which are supplied with SEL16F28 lens, will cost about $650 and $550 respectively. NEX-5K and NEX-3K cameras, supplied with SEL1855 lens will cost about $700 and $600 respectively. The NEX-3 will be available in silver, black and red, and the NEX-5 in silver and black.

The SEL16F28 and SEL1855 lenses will be available for about $250 and $300. (The SEL18200 zoom lens will be available this fall for about $800.)

The cameras, lenses and a range of accessories will be available in July at Sony Style retail stores (www.Sonystyle.com/retail) and at authorized dealers nationwide.

Translation Please
If you look at the Tamron website, it gives you a handy legend to decipher the names of their lenses. A quick look at their legend reveals what Tamron AF17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II LD Asperical means. AF stands for what you would probably guess, Auto Focus. The XR and LD refer to the glass used in the lens, and indicates that extra refractive index glass and low dispersion glass were used on some of the lens elements. Di-II is Tamron’s nomenclature for lenses made specifically for digital cameras with smaller sensors, no larger than 24mm x 16mm. Finally, the IF indicates an internal focusing design was used, this is so that when the lens focuses, it does not rotate any filters or hoods that are attached to it.

Other Specifications
The Tamron A16S zoom lens accepts filters sized 67mm. When fully retracted the lens is 3.2 inches long, and extends to 4.45 inches; It weighs 15.2oz. Minimum Focusing distance is 10.6 inches.

Tamron A16S Fully Extended

Tamron A16S Fully Retracted

Other Features
The internal focusing is a nice touch, even if expected these days. Additionally, the Tamron A16S sports a zoom lock switch, locking the barrel in the fully retracted position.

Tamron AF17-50mm f/2.8 Di-II LD Aspherical Lens Zoom Lock

Included Lens Accessories

Tamron A16S Lens Caps

Tamron A16S Petal Hood

Tamron A16S With Hood Attached

Front Glass

Tamron A16S Angled View Front Glass

AF17-50mm F/2.8 Di-II LD Aspherical Front Glass

Focus Ring

Tarmon AF17-50mm f/2.8 Di-II LD Aspherical Lens Focus Ring

Lens Mount
Lens Mount for the Sony Alpha and Konica Minolta AF cameras.

Tamron A16S Lens Mount

Tamron A16S Lens Mount

Tamron 17-50m f/2.8 XR Di-II LD SP ZL Aspherical Zoom Lens

One Lens, One Body
For as long as I have had a DSLR (a little over three years now) I have always kept to a single lens. There are a few reasons for that, most obviously is convenience. Lugging around the extra weight of an additional lens or lenses and having to switch lenses in sometimes awkward places, situations, and/or positions does not particularly appeal to me. Also, with digital cameras dust on the sensor can be a real aggravation, especially if you are shooting with your aperture closed down, and changing lenses frequently just promotes the problem. That’s why the single lens that I do carry is an all purpose lens with a very generous focal range, 18-250mm to be exact.

Shooting In Low Light
There are other reasons why I would prefer to stick with a single lens, but going into them all seems pointless. More important is why I decided to go ahead and get another one anyway. Well, I think I have done pretty well with one lens, it is a Sony 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3, model SAL18250. Nothing spectacular about it, except its noteworthy focal range – otherwise its maximum aperture range is typical. The Sony SAL18250 has been a steadfast companion to my Alpha 350 and I have always been satisfied with it in well lit situations, but low light has always been a challenge for me with that lens; indoor shots and even outdoor street shots are difficult or impossible to capture. So that’s what I was looking for, a fast lens for low light – enter the Tamron A16S.

Wider Aperture
The Tamron A16S, otherwise known as the Tamron AF 17-50mm f/2.8 Di-II LD Aspherical lens, has a nice wide maximum aperture of f/2.8 throughout the focal range. That means that you can shoot wide open at f/2.8 from 17mm all the way through 50mm, and with a wide aperture like that you can shoot at faster shutter speeds, or at a lower ISO, or both. Often, when using my Sony lens indoors, I would need to up the ISO to 800 or shoot as slow as 1/30 or 1/20 second, which usually results in grainy, blurry photos.

Nice Bokeh
Along with a wide aperture comes nice bokeh. Bokeh is the blur/soft focus effect that you typically see in portrait photography. Its that effect, which you may see in photos of wedding invites and such, where one line of text on the invite is in focus and the rest of the lines are out of focus. With really severe bokeh you can get a person’s eye in sharp focus, yet have other features of their face blurred out. You can still get the bokeh with smaller apertures than f/2.8, but personally I think f/2.8 is where it starts to get real good.

Macro Bonus
When I set out shopping for a new lens, I was only looking for a wider maximum aperture – a faster lens – and the Tamron is that plus more. More what? Well it is also a macro lens to boot. The Tamron has a minimum focusing distance of 10.5 inches throughout the focal range, allowing you to get a fair amount of detail, especially when zoomed in to 50mm. By comparison, my Sony 18-250mm lens has a minimum focusing distance of a foot and a half (18″), so to be able to get my lens less than a foot (12″) away from the subject is really exciting to me.

Two Lenses
I have always been pleased with my Sony SAL18250 lens, particularly with its versatility and how much it has allowed me to capture, all with just a single lens. I still think the SAL18250 is a fantastic lens and I still think it will be mounted on my camera a lot of the time, but now it may be sharing equal time with the Tamron A16S. The Tamron A16S will let me keep shooting in certain situations where the SAL18250 could not, and hopefully I will be able to capture a greater variety of images than I could before. It was a big decision for me to add another lens to my photo bag, but I think the Tamron A16S is worth any and all of the hassle and inconvenience that comes along with toting more hardware. I already have taken a few shots with the Tamron and am happy with the results; I can’t wait to see what else it can do. I will post some of the photos soon.

Sony is exhibiting an array of innovative digital imaging products at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) 2010 International Convention, including a concept model of the new compact α (alpha) DSLR camera system that employs an Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor, which provides full AVCHD video capability.

ANAHEIM, CALIF. (PMA #2220), Feb. 21, 2010 – Sony is exhibiting an array of innovative digital imaging products at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) 2010 International Convention, including a concept model of the new compact α (alpha) DSLR camera system that employs an Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor, which provides full AVCHD video capability.

New concept α products being shown include an ultra compact model with interchangeable lenses, additions to the α family (including a successor to the α700), along with new TX5 and H55 Cyber-shot® cameras, new printers and other accessories.

α DSLR Camera

In addition to the current DSLR-A230, A330, A380, A500, A550, A850 and A900 digital SLR cameras, the following concept camera bodies and interchangeable lenses will be exhibited. Current interchange lenses, including Carl Zeiss® and G lens products will also be on display.

* Concept model of an ultra-compact interchangeable lens digital camera system that packs the quality of a DSLR camera in an extraordinarily small body, along with interchangeable lenses
* Mid-range concept camera for advanced users (a successor to the α700) as well as concept mainstream models
* Prototype of a Super Telephoto Lens (500mm F4 G) with class-leading optical performance
* Prototype of a Distagon T 24mm F2 ZA SSM, new Carl Zeiss wide angle lens for superior shots of landscapes and sweeping vistas

Cyber-shot Digital Still Cameras

In addition to its α line of DSLR cameras, Sony will also showcase its new Cyber-shot digital still cameras. These models include the recently announced TX5 certified waterproof camera and H55 high-zoom, compact camera.

The DIMA award-winning TX5, which can be used in depths up to 10 feet for up to one hour, is the world’s thinnest and smallest waterproof digital still camera with Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization and touch-screen operation. Additionally, the 10.2 megapixel model is Sony’s first digital still camera with an “Exmor R” CMOS sensor that is also certified to be freeze-proof down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, shockproof (up to about a 5-foot drop) and dust proof. The TX5 also offers outstanding low-light performance, high speed, Intelligent Sweep Panorama, 720p high definition video recording and in-camera Backlight Correction High Dynamic Range features.

The 14.1 MP H55 camera’s 10x optical zoom Sony G lens with 25mm (equivalent) wide angle is designed for shots from greater distances and of wider landscapes. Featuring 720p HD movie recording, the H55 model also offers Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization to help reduce blur in photos without compromising image quality. It also adds Optical SteadyShot™ with Active Mode, which lets you shoot smoother movie footage even if you are walking while shooting.

Photofinishing Solutions and Digital Imaging Accessories

One retail photofinishing system and one professional printer along with four new digital imaging accessories will also be on display. The new PictureStation™ retail instant photo kiosk solution is simple to maintain while offering small to large-scale stores a cost-effective way to drive additional revenue. Event photographers will also want to take a look at the DIMA award-winning UP-DR80. Sony’s dye-sub printer is fully portable; with world-class speed and versatility professional event photographers need on the go.

Digital Imaging accessories include sports and marine packs, a floating strap (model STP-FSA) for the TX5 camera, a photo printer/frame, Party-shot™ automatic photographer, DVDirect® recorder, as well as a full line of fashionable and functional cases and camera bags for Cyber-shot cameras and Handycam® camcorders.

Handycam High-Definition Camcorders

As the leader in the high-definition camcorder category, Sony offers superior technology in its HD models, even at entry level. Now all 2010 HD Handycam models will feature the “Exmor R” CMOS sensor with a new algorithm to realize 2x faster “Quick AF,” Face Priority to prioritize a specified face for focus, color, exposure and Smile Shutter™ technology, and Highlight Playback for quick video slideshow generation. The new HD Handycam camcorder lineup will also offer iAuto, 60p output, and a new user interface, in addition to capturing content in full1920 x 1080 high-definition video recording at up to 24Mbps, the highest bit-rate offered by the AVCHD format.

The portfolio includes the top-of-the-line HDR-XR550V unit featuring a 240GB hard disk drive that holds up to 101 hours of HD video (LP mode) and a Wide Angle G-lens that captures approximately 2x larger shooting area than previous models. Sony improves Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization with Active Mode by expanding the 3-Way Shake Canceling feature across the full zoom range – from wide to telephoto end, and adds a new feature called Golf Shot to the high end camcorders. This function renders two seconds of motion (golf swing) into a sequence of up to 22 still images. In addition, the camcorder can take 12-megapixel still photos and has advanced features including an assignable dial for manual control (Iris/Shutter/Exposure/WB//Focus/AE shift).

Also on display is the new HDR-CX150 Flash Memory Handycam camcorder offered in black and red. For around $550, this model can capture 3.1-megapixel still photos and includes 16GB of embedded memory, a Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar® 25X optical zoom lens, and SteadyShot® image stabilization with Active Mode — all in a compact design.

In addition to the hard disk drive or built-in flash memory, all of Sony’s new camcorders can record video and still images directly to Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media, Secure Digital (SD), or SDHC media card (all sold separately).

PMA 2010 Sony DSLR

PMA 2010 Sony Compact Cameras

Sony HDR-CX100 Handycam Camcorder

It was just recently that I was looking for a camcorder, one that recorded in full high definition, 1920 x 1080 resolution. HD is a term which applies to several different resolutions; I wanted full HD.

The Deal
The camcorder I purchased was the Sony HDR-CX100 Handycam, for 379 USD. I really didn’t want to spend that much money, but evidently that’s how much a full HD camcorder costs – upwards of 300 USD. I got the HDR-CX100 from amazon.com. It had the best price at the time, and the free shipping helped.

Basics
As I said above, the Sony HDR-CX100 Handycam is a full HD camcorder, which means it has the capability of shooting at 1920 x 1080 resolution, but it can also shoot in standard definition.

Most of the camcorder’s functions and settings are accessed by its 2.7 inch swivel touchscreen LCD. The Sony HDR-CX100 has a 10x optical zoom lens and a 120x digital zoom with built in SteadyShot image stabilization technology. For storage, it has 8GB of onboard flash memory; and in case that is not enough, the camcorder has a slot to insert a Memory Stick Pro Duo card.

Still Images
Most camcorders these days have the capability of shooting photos. A feature I first was excited about, until I discovered that the photo capabilities of most camcorders are comparable to that of a cell phone camera. Not only are controls and settings limited, but so is the resolution, or megapixels. The Sony HDR-CX100 can shoot 4MP still images, and 2.2MP images, while recording video.

To capture a photo while shooting video you can either hit the dedicated shutter release on top at the rear of the camcorder, or you can use Sony’s Smile Shutter technology, which will just shoot every time it senses a smile.

The Competition

Samsung HMX-H100 HD Camcorder

The only other camcorder I considered was the Samsung HMX-H100, which also shoots full HD video. That was roughly the same price as the Sony when I got it. The Sony HDR-CX100 has a list price of 499, and the Samsung of 449, but both were on sale for a little under 400 USD at the time, but the Sony was slightly less expensive.

Each was at the bottom of their respective manufacturer’s full HD line of camcorders. Like the Sony HDR-CX100, the Samsung too has a 2.7 inch touchscreen LCD. And just like the Sony it has a 10x optical zoom lens as well as image stabilization. The Samsung’s digital zoom is 100x. A nice feature the Samsung has, which the Sony doesn’t, is a flash.

Unlike the Sony HDR-CX100, the Samsung HMX-H100 does not have built in flash memory; and instead of a Memory Stick Pro Duo slot, the Samsung features an SDHC slot.

The Samsung can shoot 4.7MP still images, but does not shoot still images while recording video.

Choosing The Sony HDR-CX100
Both the Sony HDR-CX100 Handycam and the Samsung HMX-H100 are great HD camcorders, and choosing between them was not easy. In the end I chose the Sony over the Samsung, based on the 8GB of embedded flash memory, its size and feel, and its lower price at the time. The photo abilities of either were not much of a consideration, since I don’t really think I will use the camcorder much to take pictures. Maybe that’s something I will come to regret, since the Samsung can take larger photos than the Sony.

Sony HDR-CX100 Handycam HD Camcorder

Sony HDR-CX100 Side View

Sony HDR-CX100 Handycam Camcorder and Box

Sony HDR-CX100 Handycam Camcorder

Cables and Cords
The Sony HDR-CX100 came with four different cables: USB cord, AC adapter, and two audio visual cables. The USB cord connects the camcorder to a computer, for backing up your data. The AC adapter connects the Sony HDR-CX100 to a standard wall outlet and charges the attached battery.

It also comes with two different A/V cables, which you can use to watch your videos or photos from your camcorder on your television screen. One cable is for composite video the other is for component video, each bundled with RCA audio cables. Interestingly, use of either of these included cables result in merely standard definition video output to your TV screen. If you want high definition output, you need to use a mini HDMI cable, but this is not included.

Sony HDR-CX100 Cables

Software and Literature
Inside my Sony HDR-CX100 box I also found a CD-ROM, Instructions, AVCHD disc compatibility notes, and a Limited Warranty.

The CD-ROM contains your Picture Motion Browser software, otherwise simply referred to as PMB. The version packaged with my camcorder was Ver.4.2.00, which was then upgraded online to Ver.4.2.12.16210. The disc also contains an operations guide, product registration, as well as the AVCHD player.

The AVCHD disc compatibility notes warns against playing AVCHD content burned onto DVDs on non Blu-ray Disc compatible machines – in 28 different languages.

The Limited Warranty covers 90 days labor and 1 year parts – basically. Warranty service information is also included on the document.

And, the operations guide tells you everything you need to know about your camcorder. But I felt as though the information on how to use the PMB software was meager.

Sony HDR-CX100 Software and Documents

Marketing Materials
And finally, Sony included the typical marketing materials you can find in an electronics purchase today. One of the included pamphlets features a couple of Sony wide conversion lenses. The larger pamphlet is a small catalog of camcorder accessories. And a sheet is included which invites you to register your camcorder in exchange for 15% off your next accessory purchase.

Sony HDR-CX100 Marketing Materials