Sony Alpha DSLRA550L with 18-55mm Lens
Introducing the α550
Designed from the ground up to bring live view into the digital SLR mainstream, they set a dramatic new standard in image quality,and can help you get shots you've never gotten before. Numerous new technologies and image processing algorithms are employed to reduce noise and ensure rich, realistic color underthe widest possible range of conditions. So you can take advantage ofmore shooting opportunities, and see your photos come alive with thevividness of precious memories. Speed and responsiveness are alsomuch improved, and battery life has been extended to provide powerfor up to 950 shots*.
A synergy of proprietary Sony technologies that takes photorealistic imaging to the next dimension
The α550 and α500 are prime examples of the superior performance offered by Image3, the triumvirate of exclusive lens, sensor, and image processor technologies that has earned Sony a worldwide reputation for true-to-life imaging excellence. Taking these proven technologies a step further, both cameras utilize a new image sensor design and improved image processing algorithms to help prevent noise at the source, and assure blazingly fast capture speed. So you can enjoy realistic, true-to-life imaging and responsive shooting that let you take your photographic creativity to the next level.
SteadyShot INSIDE™ image stabilization -another powerful ally for low-light shooting
In addition to greatly improved noise reduction, the α550 and α500 share another built-in advantage for low light shooting: body-integrated SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization. It works with any α system lens, and enables you to take beautiful photos at shutter speeds up to 4 steps slower than would otherwise be possible.
New Auto HDR lets you capture images of amazing beauty and supernatural realism
Perfect for sunsets, backlit cityscapes, and other dramatically illuminated subjects that contain extremes of light and shadow, high dynamic range (HDR) photography is a method of capturing and reproducing an exceptionally wide range of shadow and highlight detail in a scene. In the past, you had to shoot with the camera on a tripod and use fancy post-processing techniques to create a high-quality HDR photo. But not any more. Because now, with the α550 and α500's new Auto HDR function, the camera does it for you automatically. It works by taking two exposures in rapid succession; one set to capture shadow detail, the other set to capture highlight detail. The two exposures are then digitally combined into a single image using proprietary Sony algorithms to ensure optimum alignment and wide-ranging tonal expression. What's more, the difference between the two exposures can be set anywhere between 1EV and 3EV, in 0.5EV increments. So you can control the level of the HDR effect, and preserve your most precious memories in breathtakingly beautiful photos, supernaturally rich in color and image detail.
* Auto HDR available only in P/A/S/M modes; disabled when RAW or RAW + JPEG image file format is selected.
Improved AF tracking for superior results when photographing moving subjects
Quick AF Live View's fast, accurate AF tracking also gets a performance boost from our proprietary face-detection technology, enhancing autofocusing accuracy by enabling the camera's nine AF sensors to instantly zero in on the main subject. Backed by the dual combination of SLR-class phase-detection autofocusing and a powerful new BIONZ image processor, Quick AF Live View makes it easier than ever to get beautiful results when you're shooting moving subjects.
Key Features
- 14.2 megapixels; amazing pictures: This camera's 14.2 megapixel resolution makes for incredible detail and gorgeous enlargements. 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.
- Quick Auto Focus Live View: Unlike competing cameras, the DSLR-A550 is just as responsive in Quick Auto Focus Live View mode as in optical viewfinder mode. That's because, unlike the others, the a550 uses the same "phase detection" auto focus for Live View as for the optical viewfinder.
- Smile Shutter technology: Another Quick AF Live View enhancement, Smile Shutter technology automatically takes the shot when your subject smiles. Works with Quick Auto Focus Live View to capture spontaneous moments, making the difference between a missed shot and a cherished memory.
- 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 shot. Until recently, you needed a computer and editing software to enjoy HDR.
- 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.
- 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.
- 9-Point AF Sensor: To get the best shot under a wide range of situations, the a550 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.
- 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.
- Six Scene Selection Modes: To help you get the shot, 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.
- 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.
- Manual Focus Check Live View: For critical focus in macro and tripod shooting, the a550 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% framing in the LCD.
- Tiltable 3.0" 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 shots that would otherwise be hit or miss. The LCD tilts up or down 90 degrees.
- 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 shot-to-shot response time, while Advanced DRO adjusts dynamic range area-by-area for greater accuracy.
- Powerful Supplied Software: To help you refine and manage your images, the a550 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)
HDMI output for HD viewing: Connect your camera to a compatible HDTV and play back your images in stunning high definition. The a550 includes an HDMI output (HDMI cable required, sold separately). In addition, the BRAVIA Sync system works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs.
- 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.
- Up to a 1000 Shots2 of battery life: Take up to 1000 shots on a single charge (optical viewfinder mode)1; up to 520 shots (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.
- 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.
- More responsive Live View: All DSLR Live View systems enable you to compose shots 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.
- Face Detection technology: The a550 enhances Quick AF Live View shooting with Face Detection technology, which helps you get the best shot by recognizing faces and applying the proper focus, exposure and white balance.
- Up to 7 fps of continuous shooting: Up to 7 frames per second (with optical viewfinder in Speed Priority mode) 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.
- SteadyShot INSIDE stabilization: Image stabilization helps you take blur-free shots by compensating for camera shake. Typical DSLR systems build image stabilization into selected lenses only. SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization is built into the camera body itself.
- BIONZ image processor: This newest version 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 14.2MP images.
- 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.
- 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.