Showing posts with label Sony. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sony. Show all posts

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Sony Digital Recording Binoculars DEV-50V Preview

Sony Digital Recording Binoculars DEV-50V Preview



30% smaller than their predecessor, Sony has announced the DEV-50V Digital Recording Binoculars. In addition to simple world observation, these digital binocs also capture up to 20.4-megapixel still images as well as HD video in either three or two dimensions. Twin Sony G-Lenses funnel light into dual Exmor R CMOS image sensors and the BIONZ image processor, which, in addition to ensuring vivid and colorful images and videos, helps the camera's super fast Auto Focus (not found on your father's binoculars) and adds a few creative bells and whistles. Although there is no optical viewfinder, Sony supplies twin OLED Tru-finder eyes pieces (2.4 million dots each).

The DEV-50V's optical zoom range is different for video and still images. With a 35mm equivalent of 36.3-2007mm, or 25x, you're going to love the built-in Optical Steady Shot to ensure blur-free still photos. 3D / HD Movies can also access the 25x zoom range, but only with Digital Zoom turned on; for cleaner recordings, we recommend sticking with the 12x optical zoom.

In addition to all sorts of inputs and outputs, Sony's newest Digital Recording Binoculars offer Hyper-Gain Mode, for seeing in ultra-low-light scenarios almost like Nigh Vision, and Sweep Panorama 360, the easiest way to capture wide-angle panoramas.

Sony DEV-50V Digital Recording Binoculars Features

   - Twin Exmor R CMOS image sensors with a max resolution of 20.4 megapixels
   - Twin OLED Tru-finder eyes pieces (2.4 million dots each)
   - Twin Sony G Lenses capable of
  •         25x optical zoom Still Photos (36.3 - 2007mm)
  •         12x optical zoom Movie Recording
 -   BIONZ Image Processor
 -   3D HD Video Recording at 1080/60i
 -   2D HD Video Recording at 1080/60p
 -   AutoFocus
 -   Optical Steady Shot
 -   Sweep Panorama 360
 -   Hyper Gain Mode
 -   Micro HDMI Out
 -   Composite Video Out
 -   Supplied Accessories
  •         Rechargeable Battery Pack (NP-FV70)
  •         AC Adaptor
  •         Power Cord
  •         Operation Guide
  •         HDMI Micro Cable
  •         Micro USB Cable
  •         CD-ROM Manuals
  •         Neck Strap
  •         Lens Cap
  •         Large Eyecup
  •         Finder Cap
  •         Carrying Case

Pricing and availability for the Sony DEV-50V will be announced shortly.












Source: http://www.steves-digicams.com/camera-reviews/sony/dev-50/sony-dev-50v-digital-recording-binoculars-review.html

Sunday, March 17, 2013

Sony Cyber-shot Digital Camera DSC-WX200 review

Sony Cyber-shot Digital Camera DSC-WX200 review

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX200 only room for a 2.7in screen, but the limited space beside it has been used well, with a wheel, a small scattering of buttons and a mode switch. The wheel acts as a mode dial too, which is a little odd but works reasonably well. The camera had a minor seizure each time we presented it with a blank memory card, complaining of a database error and a low battery until we waded through the Setup options and reformatted the card.

Elsewhere, performance was excellent, taking two seconds to switch on and one second between shots. Tricky lighting conditions sometimes increased image processing times, but even then it could still take a shot every 1.6 seconds. Continuous mode ran at either 10fps or 2fps, and lasted for 10 frames.

The PlayMemories app for Android and iOS can control the camera remotely and handle wireless transfers. It worked perfectly on a third-generation iPad, and we're delighted to see remote shooting for videos as well as photos. There's not much control over settings, though – we don't need extensive control but an option to set the autofocus point would have been handy. Wireless transfers were handled elegantly, with selections made either on the camera or in the app.

The Android app worked fine on a Samsung Galaxy S3, with the same set of functions as the iOS app. Our tests with an HTC One V were much less successful, though, with frequent lost connections and a stuttering live preview that made it almost impossible to compose shots.

The camera also supports PC transfers across a home network, configured using the PlayMemories Home software, which must be downloaded from the web. The camera doesn't offer direct uploads to social media sites over a home network – no great loss from our point of view.

Videos are recorded in AVCHD or MPEG-4 format, and picture quality was excellent. The zoom and autofocus motors were responsive and virtually silent, but optical stabilisation wasn't as effective as on the Panasonic DMC-SZ9. It can take up to ten 13-megapixel photos while recording, but details in these photos were poor. We suspect that the camera is simply enlarging the 1080p (2-megapixel) video frames to 13 megapixels rather than capturing simultaneous 1080p video and full-resolution photos.

Normal photos were much better. We're not too enamoured with the huge 18-megapixel resolution but we must admit that, in this instance, it does deliver an impressive amount of detail. Darker colours were a little noisy at ISO 100, but unlike the Panasonic SZ9, the WX200 also maintained a reasonable amount of fine detail in subtle textures such as skin and hair. The lens performed superbly right into the corners of frames – a stunning achievement considering its 10x zoom and tiny design.

Low-light shots surpassed our expectations too. Subtle details were eroded by noise reduction but indoor shots looked presentable when resized to fit a 1080p screen. Even the top ISO 3200 setting produced photos that were just about worth keeping.

The Canon Ixus 230 HS beats it for image quality but the WX200 wins hands down for features. We're looking forward to testing the Canon Ixus 255 HS, which might have the best of both worlds. However, for now at least, the WX200 is our new Best Buy ultra-compact camera.


Source: http://www.expertreviews.co.uk/digital-cameras/1298464/sony-cyber-shot-dsc-wx200/

Saturday, March 9, 2013

Best Digital Camera 2013 decided by Reviews

When it comes to choosing a camera there are so many different factors that need to be considered, the first is the type of camera you wish to go for, second is your budget, although the two pretty much go hand in hand. When looking for the best digital camera in 2013, which has been decided by their positive reviews, we can’t help notice that there are a few older models in the list. The reason for this is because some of them are still far better than many of the new models hitting the market.

So let us look at six of the best camera models, which we have broken down into 3 categories, DSLR, Superzoom and Compact.

Best DSLR cameras for 2013
First up we have the Canon EOS 6D, which we recently pitted against the 7D and Nikon D600. This is a full-frame camera that comes in a compact body, ideal for those who don’t wish to lug a beast around. PC Mag loves the fact that this is pretty cheap for its class and comes with some top-notch features, although this isn’t the fastest on the block and the GPS loves to drain the battery.

Tech Radar has given the Nikon D5100 four and a half out of five stars. They loved its high resolution and precise LCD display, the lack of control over the exposures can be a bit of a turn off. However, both novices and enthusiasts will love the D5100.

Best Superzoom cameras for 2013
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 has been voted very highly by PC Mag, and while this is a 2012 camera it still has more to offer than some of the new models coming out now. While the DMC-FZ200 has a lack-luster zoom ratio, the speedy performance and sharp lens more than makes up for this downfall.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V is getting on a little now, but the excellent photo quality and fast performance proves that there is life in the old dog yet. However, it’s a little on the expensive side and can take some time to master the features. An in-depth review of this camera can be found by visiting CNET.

Best Compact cameras for 2013
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 has a huge sensor for such a compact camera, and you will be amazed at how close the images come to those taken with a more expensive DSLR. However, this is still a little pricey and does not have as much optical zoom as we would have hoped. PC Mag has a full review on this compact camera.

A review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX150 sees this compact score an impressive four out of five stars. This camera is said to be very fast and the 10x optical zoom is pretty good considering its size. However, it seems that the 18-megapixel lens is a bit of an overkill and because there is not much weight to the camera it can become a little tough to keep steady while taking a photo.


Source: http://www.product-reviews.net/2013/03/07/best-digital-camera-decided-by-reviews-for-2013/

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX30 - slimmest waterproof compact camera

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX30 - slimmest waterproof compact camera

The new Sony TX30 is built for photographers who want to document their active lifestyles, whether it's windsurfing, snowboarding or just hanging out at the pool with the family. Sony claims the TX30 is the world's slimmest waterproof compact camera -- measuring at just 3 7/8" wide x 2 3/8" tall x 5/8" deep (96.4 x 59.3 x 15.4mm) -- and it features a sleek, slick style that stands out from the rugged digicam crowd.

Serious upgrades
The Sony TX30 gets a significant bump up in a number of performance areas over last year's model, including resolution where the camera sports an 18.2-megapixel (effective) 1/2.3-inch Exmor CMOS sensor, as well as an extended optical zoom range of its Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens to 5x (26mm to 130mm equivalent) and a max apertures of f/3.5 (wide) and f/4.8 (telephoto). Additionally, the TX30's waterproof capabilities have (literally) been deepened to 33 ft. (10m), while it remains shockproof from a fall of up to 5 ft. (1.5m) and freezeproof down to 14-degrees Fahrenheit (-10°C).

The upgraded, top-of-the-line waterproof Cyber-shot also gets a touchpanel OLED monitor that's bigger than the TX20's LCD, now measuring 3.3" diagonally and giving a bigger viewing for composing and capturing underwater and terrestrial shots alike. For macro shooting, the Sony TX30 also features a new up to 15x Magnifying Glass Plus mode and a built-in LED light that Sony says can help you focus on subjects as close as 1 cm.

Improved modes
Like the other Cyber-shots announced in February 2013, the TX30 also gets Sony's new, improved Superior Auto Mode that helps photographers get the right shot by automatically adjusting the camera's settings for composition and lighting, as well as by adding Picture Effects ranging from Toy Camera to Partial Color. For the TX30, Beauty Effect mode allows you to re-touch your portraits and remove blemishes, whiten teeth and open squinting eyes.

Since the camera is designed to capture on-the-go action, the Sony TX30 records video in Full HD 1080p, and also shoots 10 frames per second at full resolution in burst still mode. Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode allows for full 360-degree shots, as well as Underwater Sweep Panorama.

Availability
 The Sony Cyber-shot TX30 will start shipping in the U.S. in March for US$350, and will be available in black, orange, blue or pink.




source: http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/sony-tx30/sony-tx30A.HTM

Sony SLT - A99 dSLR Review

The Sony Alpha SLT-A99 is that the world's 1st full-frame clear mirror DSLR, providing glorious image quality all told lighting conditions and also the same AF performance for video as for stills. it's a 24-megapixel full-frame detector, a high-resolution electronic view finder (EVF), full HD video at sixty frames-per-second, new “Dual AF” machine focus system, a 3-inch tilting show|LCD|digital display|alphanumeric display} display and it will shoot as quick as ten FPS in Tele-zoom high speed shooting mode (6.6 FPS in manual modes).

Strengths:    Electronic read finder, in body image stabilization, quick and low light-weight focus, focus peaking, a lot of improved dynamic vary and extremely low noise up to 6400 iso,

Weaknesses:
    No pop up flash. No mill equipped screen shielder

Bottom Line:  
Well let ME begin out by locution i do not shoot video therefore i am unable to base any of this review on the a99s video capability. however right out of the box I detected simply however the a99 appears like the a77. they're nearly a similar size however the a99 simply ever slightly larger. Most of the controls ar a similar. One distinction could be a programmable dial on the front of the camera to assist with silent operation once shooting video.

It conjointly handles pretty much similar to the a77. The menu is sort of identical. All the controls one wants and in smart spots to use them. they're currently 2 Coyote State card slots and that they will be programmed in an exceedingly variety of how. One for video the opposite stills shock therapy. there's conjointly currently a feature known as focus vary. I will set the a99 to focus in an exceedingly sure vary close to and much that keeps the camera from looking the maximum amount. I real smart feature if you recognize concerning however way your target goes to be and also the cameras focus system can solely hunt focus in this vary creating focus faster.

Sony has conjointly modified it's hot shoe from the Sony style to a standard hot shoe. this may please several as I even have detected complaints concerning this issue for a protracted time.
But the most important improvement is in image quality. initial the noise. this can be one in every of the primary things that's critiqued once a replacement camera comes out. however do the images look once shooting high ISO? i'm undecided why this has continually been such a problem. i assume it's one thing you'll be able to see initial hand by staring at shots on the net. however additional necessary to ME is dynamic vary and color depth. however pictures ar terribly pack up to 6400 ISO. more than that and also the a99 starts to fall off. however it's nearly nearly as good|pretty much as good} if not as good because the D800. i might suppose the Nikon might need a position however at that i am unable to see why with the a99 you would not be proud of the noise levels. it's an honest stop and a 0.5 to 2 stops higher than the a77 or a850.

The dynamic vary to ME is that the biggest improvement over the a850. I had to use ND grads and Lightroom to induce my landscape shots prosperous with the a850. I even have closely-held many DSLRs over the years and have continually had to figure at protective the highlights and citing the shadows in post get the detail I wished. it's as those days ar over. I even have shot with a 2 stop grad and have gotten out of camera exposures with none would like for post process. I even have even have shoot a couple of ultimately into the sun wherever associate degree ND grad wasn't necessary the least bit. thereupon i have to say the a99 and Carl Zeiss 24-70mm would possibly simply be the most effective landscape lense jazz band on the market.

As way as color depth I even have to mention there's nothing wrong with the a850 in this space. however the colour depth of the a99 is actually nice. Deep made correct colours for sure.
I browse some of negative comments relating to the electronic read noticeer however I find it nothing however nice. although i have not shot lots of burst to examine out write time to the cardboard or the buffer size i might expect it to be concerning a similar because the a77. Shooting a large amount of images like at a football game game will get annoying with the finder blanking out because the camera writes to the cardboard. If I shot sports lots or was a professional i could not just like the electronic read finder the maximum amount.

Focus peaking is that the best invention that has came out since mud removal or image stabilization. What am i able to say? As a landscape creative person the lean out screen and focus peaking is pretty much as good because it gets. Setting the camera near the bottom and having the ability to compose the shot and focus with exactitude. and since the mirror does not flop up, it's associate degree SLT, there's no would like for mirror lock up. pictures ar super sharp and that i am less probably to induce associate degree out of focus image. and the shutter is incredibly quite. this can be necessary if you shoot life. conjointly I will use the amount on the liquid crystal display and take the guess compute of obtaining grade horizon. With the a99 I even have taken a couple of footage that have completely required no post process work, none.


source: http://www.photographyreview.com/cat/cameras/digital-cameras/digital-slrs/sony/alpha-a99/prd_500756_3127crx.aspx

Sunday, March 3, 2013

Sony Alpha SLT - A58


With the new Sony Alpha SLT-A58, Sony consolidates its entry-level dSLR models into one camera that looks like a potpourri for the money; debuting at constant asking price because the higher-end A57, it really looks to require a handful steps back from that model in what it delivers, even compared with the cheaper A37, that it conjointly replaces.

On the side, the A58 incorporates a brand new detector and updated image processor with area-specific noise reduction, and that Sony says delivers higher dynamic vary, that in theory ought to deliver higher image quality. It conjointly introduces AN dilated implementation of the camera's car Portrait Framing feature (introduced within the NEX-F3), which might currently sight a two-person portrait and generalizes to things and macro shots. One intriguing new feature is Lock-on AF, that uses scene analysis to work out the target subject and so expands the relevant clump of optical device points to lock the complete object focussed instead of simply the world underneath hand-picked AF points.

But in different ways that you are losing some capabilities. Continuous shooting specs drop below the A37, from 5.5fps to 5fps and for fewer shots (the 8fps range Sony quotes is for Tele-zoom Cont. Advance Priority AE, a reduced-resolution, fixed-exposure burst mode). The alphanumeric display is smaller, lower-resolution and tilting rather than absolutely articulated as on the A57, and simply a hair larger than that of the A37.

The camera can ship {in a|during a|in AN exceedingly|in a very} kit with an updated version of the 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 lens; the lens features a new cosmetic style and a quieter optical device motor for shooting video.

Along with the camera, Sony declared AN updated version of the HVL-F20AM flash unit, the HVL-F20M, compatible with the company's new hot-shoe style.

And for the professional set, the Zeiss flattened T 50mm f1.4 ZA SSM that previewed at Photokina last year is currently a true issue, cost accounting a really real $1,499.99. there is conjointly AN updated version of the 70-400mm f4-5.6 SSM II that gains improved coatings and a few cosmetic changes. That lens goes for $2,999.99.

Saturday, March 2, 2013

Sony Alpha NEX-3N - Small, Powerfull Camera

Sony Alpha NEX-3N - Small, Powerfull Camera

As unhappy because it sounds, the foremost notable factor concerning Sony's new Alpha NEX-3N is that the price: list of $500 for the kit with an influence optical lens. that is concerning $100 but the asking price of the camera it's exchange, the NEX-F3, and whereas it is not as low as i would like for a model designed to charm to potential point-and-shoot upgraders, it's actually a step within the right direction in an exceedingly usually expensive field. And hopefully it suggests that the road worth can hit $399, that is that the most that plenty of that focus on audience can need to pay, despite feature set.

For that money, the 3N could be a probably nice camera. It uses identical sensing element because the F3 with the same old another-generation algorithmic  tweaks to enhance noise reduction. That said, I did not see an understandable improvement within the quality at ISO four hundred or higher, however cannot state that definitively till i purchase substantial testing time with the camera.

The 3N additionally shaves concerning zero.2 in. off the F3's body all told dimensions, while not losing any important controls; in reality, it gains a zoom lever on the body, that works in conjunction with the 16-50mm power zoom kit lens for a additional point-and-shoot-like expertise. which extremely appears like the foremost natural thanks to use an influence optical lens. I actually have mixed feelings concerning the changes in style. i like that the smaller battery compartment necessitated moving the South Dakota card slot to the left facet of the camera, however detest that it makes the grip smaller. I felt like i used to be scrunching my hand to carry the camera, and therefore the grip feels a trifle cheaply created. And cutting corners on the liquid crystal display means it will flip up for shooting from below the waist and for self-portraits, however it cannot tilt down for overhead shooting. The screen is additionally lower resolution than the F3 and it's pretty coarse.

Like the different models during this generation, it gains the new machine Object Framing mode, a additional generalized version of the machine Portrait Framing mode that debuted within the F3.

I hope once i purchase to try and do additional intensive testing it'll prove that the noise reduction (and JPEG processing) improve over those of the F3, as that camera's photos displayed noticeable degradation jumping from ISO two hundred to ISO four hundred. plenty of the camera's attractiveness can depend on the road price; although i am not an enormous fan of the camera generally, you'll be able to get the Nikon one J1 with 2 lenses for fewer than $500, that makes it a formidable competitor if you are simply craving for one thing with higher size and speed than a snap camera.

Friday, March 1, 2013

New Best Superzoom Camera: Sony Cyber-shot HX300 with 50x Optical Zoom

New Best Superzoom Camera: Sony Cyber-shot HX300 with 50x Optical Zoom

The Cyber-shot HX300 options a 50x f2.8-6.3 24-1200mm lens and a 1/2.3-inch 20-megapixel Exmor R backside-illuminated CMOS detector. The zoom vary is that the same as found on the Canon SX50 HS and Fujifilm SL1000, however its apertures ar wider at each ends (though simply marginally additional thus than the SL1000).

The camera's lens will focus as shut as zero.4 in. from a theme for macro shots. With the lens totally zoomed in, though, you will need to be standing a bit but eleven feet from what you are shooting to induce the camera to optical device.

The new lens conjointly options improved optical device (AF) for higher performance in photograph and increased optical image stabilization (OIS) created potential by "a second zoom cluster of lens components that shifts apace to correct for the slightest of hand movements."

The office did work very well, thus unless you are shooting in low light-weight, you ought to haven't any drawback obtaining clean shots with the lens zoomed in. The AF was conjointly nice and quick, even with the lens extended, that is sometimes a haul for megazoom cameras.

Shot-to-shot times vary looking on what proportion process the camera needs to do, however overall they felt quick. (There is not any raw format possibility, by the way; it captures JPEG solely.) sadly, the burst shooting is that the same because it has been for the past few years, wherever it takes ten shots in an exceedingly second so keeps you waiting a few of seconds per shot whereas it stores the pictures. there is conjointly no choice to unceasingly shoot with AF.

The camera does not look all that totally different from its precursor, the Cyber-shot HX200V. It's a big, comfortable-to-use camera with some direct management over settings, and this model, not like the less costly H200, will have associate degree electronic view finder to travel along side its tilting 3-inch liquid crystal display.

There's still no hot shoe and no mic input. there is conjointly no GPS or Wi-Fi, however there's a Multi Terminal Micro-USB port for "intelligent communication between the camera and compatible accessories," thus it may well be that Wi-Fi and GPS adapters are going to be offered as accessories. Then again, within the past, this was simply Sony's method of claiming it handles each transfers to computers, A/V output, and, during this case, charging still.

The HX300's shooting choices ar primarily a similar, too, tho' you'll be able to currently use the camera's image Effects mode for photos and films. Basically, if you are considering upgrading, you would be doing it for the lens and quicker AF, however the HX200V was already fast. It's simply with the magnified vary, Sony seemingly required to transform things to stay the HX300 speedy.

Saturday, February 9, 2013

Best Pocket Camera : Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 review


Best Pocket Camera : Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 review

Sony could also be a camera-come-lately with its Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 enthusiast compact, but boy, what a debut: a quick entertainer equipped with a comparatively giant sensing element and a bright, fast lens, and wrapped in a very little, sleek body. It looks like Sony created plenty of intelligent choices regarding style and have tradeoffs to induce the duty done. Compared with several of its competitors it's comparatively costly, however it does not feel expensive for what you get.

Image quality
The RX100 typically displays smart JPEG process and noise reduction; it will a worthy job of leveling trade-offs between color noise and softness. Out-of-focus areas still suffer from mushiness as low as ISO four hundred -- a standard downside with cameras with smaller sensors -- however in-focus spots get on my feet as good as till regarding ISO 800. Overall, the camera's JPEGs look solid up to ISO four hundred and acceptable through ISO 1600, relying upon scene content. From a noise and unit perspective, i used to be proud of associate uncorrected 13x19 print of the ISO 1600.

    f1.8 at 28mm
    f2.2 at 30.8mm
    f2.5 at 33.6mm
    f2.8 at 36.4mm
    f3.2 at 44.8mm
    f3.5 at 53.2mm
    f4 at 64.4mm
    f4.5 at 78.4mm
    f4.9 at 95.2mm

But it's nice that you are not forced to accept the high ISO sensitivities that usually. whereas the lens aperture gets pretty slim at the photograph finish of the focal vary, it's still comparatively wide for a pleasant chunk of the method. Here ar the points at that the utmost aperture changes:

Keep in mind that whereas the aperture determines the number of depth of field you'll need at a given distance, thus will sensing element size. meaning competitive  aperture specs ar solely moderately helpful once it involves comparison cameras: the f1.8 on the XZ-1 can look terribly completely different from the f1.8 on the RX100 owing to sensing element size distinction. Larger sensors can do shallower DOF at a given distance and aperture than smaller sensors, which supplies the RX100 a integrative flexibility advantage over cheaper competitors. however usually, unless you are forever shooting at a large angle or pack up, you'll likely still find yourself while not plenty of background defocus. The a lot of sensible advantage the lens confers is solely permitting a lot of lightweight.

The camera produces terribly nice low-ISO-sensitivity shots with beautiful key. It does not have a neutral artistic vogue, that the photos have Sony's typical commonplace look, high distinction with pushed saturation. That said, it does not stress the vary thus badly that hues shift or shadow detail clips considerably. The one potential issue I encountered was that bright highlights on yellows get utterly blown out. they are irretrievable from raws in Sony's Image convertor package, however they may be there for higher package. On the opposite hand, some clipped areas in bright, saturated reds of JPEG pictures evidenced moderately retrievable within the package.

The lens displays superb center sharpness through f5.6, with a small deterioration at f8 and noticeable softness at f11. there is additionally some aberration at f1.8, that is typical, and a bit little bit of barrel distortion on the left aspect at its widest -- it's like Sony is activity in-camera distortion correction, that tends to form wide angle pictures look oddly linearized.

Video appearance smart, bright, saturated, and fairly sharp, with no notable artifacts in bright lightweight, and is comparatively noise-free in dim. The optical device works well whereas shooting video, and therefore the lens is sufficiently quiet whereas zooming. Audio comes through loud and clear and does not sound too compressed or tinny.

The RX100 is considerably quicker than its competition for virtually continuous shooting. It takes regarding two.1 seconds to power on, focus, and shoot -- whereas that is not blazing-fast, it's still sooner than quite an few alternative models. Focusing and shooting underneath {all but|about|just regarding|almost|most|nearly|near|nigh|virtually|well-nigh} the darkest conditions takes about zero.3 second; in terribly low lightweight, the optical device mechanically expands to the whole scene. 2 ordered shots with the primary prefocused take regarding zero.2 second for raw or JPEG. That will increase to two.3 seconds with flash enabled, that is on the quick aspect for this crowd. Shooting raw+JPEG with {a quick|a quick} Coyote State card (a 95MBps SanDisk Extreme Pro) is fast and fluid with none interface lag.

With a quick card, the camera will burst JPEGs at two.5 frames per second for associate effectively unlimited variety of shots while not speed. you'll be able to shoot raw incessantly at a similar rate for around seventeen shots; at that time, it drops to around two.2fps. However, whereas quicker than several competitors' times, neither of those is admittedly nice. Continuous shooting with the RX100 and lots of alternative viewfinderless models is usually a point-and-pray method, anyway. within the case of the RX100, the trailing optical device looks to lag behind even slow subjects, another not-uncommon downside.

The LCD becomes a bit washed go in direct daylight however remains sufficiently visible.

Design and options
With solely one or two of potential exceptions, the RX100 could be a sleek, well-designed camera; it's compact and enticing, with a sturdily engineered aluminium body.

My biggest downside with the RX100's style is that the lack of a foothold. That combined with the slippery metal body means that i am perpetually in concern of dropping it, and made to grip it additional tightly, which might get extremely wearing if you shoot one-handed plenty. Over and yet again we have seen firms drop the grip to form the camera appear smaller or shinier or somethinger solely to feature it back in a very ensuant generation. It's nuts.

I like the management ring, that you'll be able to program to control for one default setting (such as zoom or shutter speed) and to use in conjunction with the Fn button, that you'll be able to program to access up to seven a lot of settings. However, you cannot use the management ring whereas the camera's on a rack (unless you've got a really little plate); the ring extends simply way enough below the lowest of the camera that there is no clearance to rotate.

The camera are often customised quite an bit. additionally to the Fn button, you'll be able to additionally reprogram the operation of the left and right navigation keys on the rear dial further because the center button. and there is a Memory Recall possibility on the mode dial thus you'll be able to choose from 3 custom settings slots.

The top mode dial offers the standard manual, semimanual, and automatic modes, and a fervent motion picture mode (with a full set of manual and semimanual exposure controls) and Sweep Panorama.

I'd argue that the camera (like plenty of cameras, actually) offers too several automatic mode options: there is a scene program mode, intelligent automobile, and Superior automobile. I forever thought the complete purpose of automatic was to not need to create any decisions.

The motion picture button on the rear could be a bit exhausting to press as a result of the situation demands or not it's too recessed so as to stay from accidentally striking it. the remainder of the controls have merely enough trip keep from being tough to control.

In order to induce eliminate useless or screen-cluttering info just like the Soft Skin or flash compensation setting -- the latter should not even seem if the flash is forced off, as an example -- you've got to change to the graphic show, that I realize more durable to dissect quickly.

While the RX100 includes a nicely rounded shooting feature set, i might hardly decision it expansive. The camera lacks a hot shoe, viewfinder, or articulated LCD. And though you are willing to trade those off for the a lot of compact size, it additionally lacks geotagging capability and wireless property. it's options just like the aforesaid Soft electrical phenomenon and automobile Portrait Framing, that i feel ar out of place in a very camera for a lot of advanced users. i might rather have the flexibility to manually invoke macro mode, which, like with Sony's point-and-shoot models, here will solely occur mechanically. additionally to face detection, it will register up to eight faces, that it will then use for Smile Shutter or optical device trailing.

For effectsionistas, the RX100 offers a couple, with some terribly nice ones. however you've to scroll through each variation -- a rotating abundance of thirty three slots once there ar extremely solely thirteen filters -- that gets seriously annoying. they don't seem to be accessible in raw or raw+JPEG mode (though the camera does not trouble to inform you that is why they are colorless  out) thus you cannot save a coincident version while not effects, and you cannot management any of the parameters.

Conclusion
While the Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 is expensive and imperfect, it's still darn smart. Plus, supported past expertise, though competitors i have not nevertheless tested will surpass it in style or speed, i do not assume they're going to be able to match the pic quality. (Canon could be able to if it matched a quick lens to the G1 X's sensing element.) Despite its drawbacks, i might still rank it mutually of the most effective compact cameras I've ever tested, and positively the most effective underneath $700. however if you cannot bring yourself to pay the premium value, one in all these alternative enthusiast compact models can most likely suit.

Compare Sony Cybershot S100 vs Olympus XZ-1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX7 vs Samsung EX2F vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100


Canon PowerShot S100 Olympus XZ-1 Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX7Samsung EX2FSony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100
Sensor (effective resolution)12mp CMOS10mp CCD10.1mp MOS12.4mp BSI CMOS20.2mp Exmor CMOS
1/1.7-inch
(7.6 x 5.7mm)
1/1.63-inch
(8.07 x 5.56 mm)
1/1.7-inch
n/a
1/1.7-inch
n/a
1-inch
(13.2 x 8.8mm)
Sensitivity range ISO 80 - 6400 ISO 100 - ISO 6,400 ISO 80 - ISO 6400 ISO 80 - ISO 3200/12800 (expanded) ISO 100 - ISO 25600
Lens 24-120mm
f2-5.9
5x
28-112mm
f1.8-2.5
4x
24-90mm
f1.4-2.3
3.8x
24-80mm
f1.4-2.7
3.3x
28-100mm
f1.8-4.9
3.6x
Closest focus (inches) 1.2 0.4 0.4 0.4 1.9
Continuous shooting 2.3fps
n/a
2fps
23 JPEG/8 raw
5fps
12 JPEG/ n/a raw
(11fps without tracking AF)
n/a 2.5fps
(10fps with fixed exposure)
n/a
Viewfinder None Optional EVF Optional EVF None None
Autofocus n/a
Contrast AF
11 area
Contrast AF
23-area
Contrast AF
n/a
Contrast AF
25-area Contrast AF
Metering n/a 324 area n/a n/a n/a
Shutter n/a 60-1/2,000 sec; bulb to 16 min 60-1/4,000 sec 30-1/2,000 sec 30-1/2,000 sec; bulb
Flash Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Hot shoe No Yes Yes Yes No
LCD 3-inch fixed
461,000 dots
3-inch fixed OLED
610,000 dots
3-inch fixed
920,000 dots
3-inch articulated AMOLED
614,000 dots
3-inch fixed
921,600 dots
Image stabilization Optical Sensor shift Optical Optical Optical
Video
(best quality)
1080/24p
H.264 QuickTime MOV
Stereo
720/30p Motion JPEG AVI
Mono
1080/60p AVCHD @ 28Mbps; 1080/60p QuickTime MOV @ 28Mbps
Stereo
1080/30p
H.264 MP4
Stereo
1080/60p/ 50p
AVCHD Stereo
Manual iris and shutter in video Yes No n/a n/a Yes
Optical zoom while recording Yes Yes n/a Yes n/a
External mic support No Yes No Yes No
Battery life (CIPA rating) 200 shots 320 shots 330 shots n/a 330 shots
Dimensions (WHD, inches) 3.9 x 2.3 x 1.1 4.4 x 2.6 x 1.7 4.4 x 2.6 x 1.8 4.4 x 2.4 x 1.1 4.0 x 2.4 x 1.4
Weight (ounces) 7 9.3 10.6 (est.) 11.4 (est.) 8.5
Mfr. price$429.99 $399.99$499$499.99$649.99
AnnouncedNovember 2011January 2011August 2012August 2012July 2012

Friday, February 8, 2013

Superzoom Series | Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V




Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V Specification
Key specs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V
Price (MSRP) $449.99
Dimensions (WHD) 4.9x3.5x3.8 inches
Weight (with battery and media) 1 pound, 4.3 ounces
Megapixels, image sensor size, type 18 megapixels, 1/2.3-inch Backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS
LCD size, resolution/viewfinder 3-inch LCD, 921K dots/Electronic
Lens (zoom, aperture, focal length) 30x, f2.8-5.6, 27-810mm (35mm equivalent)
File format (still/video) JPEG/AVCHD (.MTS); MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 (.MP4)
Highest resolution size (still/video) 4,896x3,672 pixels/1,920x1,080 at 60fps (progressive; 28Mbps)
Image stabilization type Optical and digital
Battery type, CIPA rated life Li-ion rechargeable, 450 shots (490 viewfinder only)
Battery charged in camera Yes; via AC wall adapter or USB
Storage media SD/SDHC/SDXC; Memory Stick Pro Duo
Bundled software PlayMemories Home (Windows), Music Transfer (Windows, Mac)
_________________________________________________________________________

On the surface -- and even somewhat to a lower place it -- the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V is that the same as its forerunner, the HX100V. it's identical 30x camera lens, 3-inch ultrahigh-resolution tilting liquid crystal display, and controls and shooting choices, together with manual and semimanual modes.

It does, however, have a brand new 18-megapixel sensing element and image processor, providing you with advantages like improved image stabilization once recording video; high-resolution stills whereas shooting video; and Sony's Clear Image Zoom, that digitally extends the zoom vary to 60x. you furthermore mght get additional inventive management in Intelligent and Superior motorcar modes and 9 inventive image effects. Its GPS practicality is improved, too, with support for work your path whereas you shoot (though powering it on and off still needs an excessive amount of creating by removal through menus).

Most significantly, its optical device system is quicker, providing you with a far better shot at capturing sharp photos even once the lens is totally zoomed in. Overall, it's a far better camera no matter appearances.

Photo quality
The ikon quality from the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V is extremely sensible to glorious, tho' it very depends on your desires and expectations. If you are considering shopping for this rather than a high-resolution digital SLR, you would be foiled. Like all of Sony's 2012 18-megapixel Cyber-shots, most photos viewed at full size are not spectacular. However, there is lots of usable resolution here, notably if you are shooting with lots of light-weight.

Below ISO four hundred, shots look sensible written up to 10x13, that is quite the general public want. obtaining a really sensible 8x10 with some enlarging and cropping is definitely doable, too. And if you ne'er print your shots, the HX200V's photos look nice on a video display or high-definition television.
As the camera goes on top of ISO four hundred, subjects do get perceptibly softer, however shots square measure usable at little sizes up to ISO 1600. If you wish higher low-light shots of still subjects, Sony's hand-held Twilight mode still produces a number of the simplest high-ISO photos I've seen from a point-and-shoot. However, i would not trouble victimisation the 2 highest ISOs, as they appear additional like artist's renderings than photos and have off colours.

Again, the HX200V isn't a dSLR (it does not even have the aptitude to capture raw images), except for individuals yearning for a protracted lens and a few higher management over results than the typical point-and-shoot offers, it is a safe bet.

The HX200V's video is nearly as good as its photos. With lots of light-weight you get nice-looking, swish video once recording at the camera's most AVCHD resolution of 1080/60p. there's little or no trailing on moving subjects or shake once panning the camera, tho' some is noticeable once viewed at larger screen sizes. In low light-weight, movies do have additional visible noise and artifacts and appearance softer, however square measure still superb. you are doing have use of the camera lens, that you will hear acquiring quieter scenes. Audio quality generally is extremely sensible, too, however sadly you are restricted to the stereo mic on prime.
Shooting performance
This is a fast-performing camera for its category. Its shot-to-shot times square measure on par with different CMOS sensor-based megazooms -- regarding one second while not flash, however deceleration all the way down to regarding three or four seconds with the flash in use. Its shutter lag, tho' -- the time from pressing the shutter unleash to capture while not prefocusing -- is sort of nothing in bright lighting. it had been nearly nearly as good in rheostat conditions or with lens extended. you may notice some retardation in optical device speeds with the lens extended and in low light-weight, however it's still higher than others during this category.

The HX200V's burst setting permits you to capture at full resolution at up to ten frames per second for ten photos. However, this burst shooting sets focus and exposure with the primary shot, and once you've got discharged, you are stuck looking ahead to the camera to save lots of the photos, typically a second or 2 per ikon.

In comparison, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150 will shoot at up to 10fps while not continuous optical device and 5fps with optical device and it does not have to be compelled to stop nearly as long to store pictures. Overall, though, the Sony's speed, notably its shutter lag, is great for a point-and-shoot and therefore the megazoom class on the entire.

Design and options
Though it isn't the largest lifesize megazoom I've tested this year, the HX200V is by no suggests that little. It is, however, snug to use with a grammatical right-hand grip and enough weight, because of the hefty lens, to assist you retain the camera steady.

While it's going to not look like it's several direct controls over settings, it really will. there is a zoom management round the lens barrel, that is nice for little zoom changes and may be used for manually focusing the lens, too. you may additionally notice a programmable Custom button on prime, right behind the shutter unleash associate degreed zoom ring which will be used for an exposure lock, white balance, ND filter, metering, and Smile Shutter, Sony's smile-activated shutter unleash.

Next thereto could be a Focus button which will amendment your optical device mode or, if you are manually focusing, provides you attention check therefore you'll see if your subject is truly focused . Lastly, there is a jog dial to the correct of the thumb rest for dynamical ISO, exposure compensation, shutter speed, and aperture. you have got to press in on the dial to advance through till you gain the one you wish to vary. If you create lots of changes to those things, it will get deadening.
The liquid crystal display is massive and bright, creating it straightforward to ascertain in bright conditions; you may still struggle in direct sun, however you'll invariably use the electronic finder, tho' I found that to be somewhat little. (Note: there's a proximity sensing element next to the EVF permitting the camera to leap from the liquid crystal display to the EVF after you bring it to your eye. It takes a second or 2 to change, which could anger some users. there's a button to simply amendment between the 2, however you have got to cycle past the sensing element choice.)
With all its capabilities, the HX200V are often tough to use, notably if you are not at home with additional advanced compact cameras. However, the menus square measure straightforward enough to navigate, and if you are not positive what one thing will, there is a full manual hold on on the camera. that is sensible as a result of a number of the shooting modes have lots of settings and there square measure lots of buttons on this model. it would take a while to induce conversant in all this camera will do.
Like all of Sony's higher-end cameras, the Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V features a heap of shooting choices that profit of its quick Exmor R sensors and Bionz image processors. For those that wish to leave it in motorcar, there square measure 3 options: straightforward, Intelligent motorcar, and Superior motorcar. straightforward mode takes away all choices apart from image size (large or small) and enlarges onscreen text. Intelligent motorcar picks from thirty three scene varieties and activates face detection, dynamic vary improvement, and image stabilization. Superior motorcar takes Intelligent motorcar and adds 3 multishot modes: hand-held Twilight, opposed Motion Blur, and Backlight Correction HDR. These multishot modes can even be chosen as distinct modes in Scene choices, beside thirteen others like Soft Skin, Gourmet, and Pet.
If you are willing to require management aloof from the camera, there square measure Program, Aperture-priority, Shutter-speed-priority, and Manual modes for management over aperture and shutter speed. out there apertures square measure f2.8, f3.2, f3.5, f4.0, f4.5, f5.0, f5.6, f6.3, f7.1, and f8.0 for wide and f5.6, f6.3, f7.1, and f8.0 for telephotograph. (You can even flip its neutral density filter on or off.) Shutter speeds square measure adjustable from 1/4,000 second to thirty seconds. Plus, you get a live read of your exposure therefore you'll see regarding what you will get at your chosen ISO, shutter speed, and aperture settings.

The Program mode can handle shutter speed and aperture whereas you are taking care of everything else, together with color modes, contrast, color saturation, and sharpness. If you return up with a bunch of settings you wish, the Memory Recall mode enables you to store 3 teams of settings for fast shooting along with your preferences.

The HX200V's motion picture mode is one among the simplest you will find in its class (though the Panasonic FZ150 bests the HX200V in shutter and aperture controls). It's capable of recording fully HD at 1080/60p at 28Mbps in AVCHD. it will record at lower bit rates, too, in AVCHD otherwise you will switch to MP4 format at resolutions of up to one,440x1,080 pixels. whereas there's an avid motion picture mode, you'll additionally simply press the record button anytime you wish to start out shooting. Pressing the shutter unleash whereas you are recording can grab 13-megapixel stills, too (though this is often not out there once recording at 1080/60p).

This is very simply scratching the surface of what the camera will do. verify my sample ikon slideshow to ascertain some samples of what i am talking regarding.

Conclusion: suggested
It might look like all of the lifesize megazooms square measure regarding identical, simply with totally different lenses, however they don't seem to be. Even among the high-end models from every manufacturer there square measure variations that may cause you to select one over another. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V is a superb selection for somebody yearning for a superior, long-lens compact camera that is superb in motorcar, however permits you to tailor your results if you are willing to require a number of the management aloof from it. However, if you wish the foremost management, verify the Fujifilm FinePix HS30EXR and therefore the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150.