The Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera features technologies that make picture taking faster, easier, and more familiar for first-time DSLR users. The camera's 14.2 Megapixel resolution APS-C CCD image sensor and BIONZ processing engine assures that users of all skill levels will produce superb image quality while the Quick AF Live View technology of the camera's variable angle 2.7" Clear Photo LCD Display makes framing your image as easy as it is with a compact Point-and-shoot digital camera without sacrificing auto-focusing speed. The Quick AF Live View feature is made possible by Sony's innovative Pentamirror Tilt mechanism that directs light to a dedicated live view image sensor, enabling fast and responsive TTL phase-detection auto-focusing, even during live view. Furthermore, the variable angle feature of the display makes it easy to frame scenes from high or low positions that would be difficult to view when using an eye-level viewfinder.
To aid shooting in low light, the camera incorporates Sony's Super SteadyShot image stabilization which enables shutter speeds 2.5 to 3.5 steps slower than otherwise possible, and since the image stabilization system is built into the camera body, you'll be able to take advantage of the image stabilization with every compatible Minolta Maxxum and Sony (alpha) lens ever available. The DSLR-A350 also provides high sensitivity operation at ISO 1600 and 3200 while producing very low noise, plus Sony's D-Range Optimizer delivers suitable tonality and exposures with rich shadow and highlight detail, even under high contrast situations.
Although the camera is easy to use, the DSLR-A350 still can provide professional level performance and speed. It can shoot about three continuous frames per second when using the optical viewfinder, and the supplied InfoLITHIUM battery provides for fast start-up times, and long battery life - up to 730 shots per full charge when using the optical viewfinder and up to 410 shots per full charge in live-view mode. But even with all of these superb features, the DSLR-A350 is lighter and slimmer than previous models. A comfortable camera grip with an easily accessible mode dial makes shooting with the A350 an enjoyable experience - even after hours of location shooting.
| Camera Type | Interchangeable Lens SLR (Single Lens Reflex) Digital Camera with In-camera Image Stabilization |
| Image Quality | |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | APS-C size (23.6x15.8mm) 14.8 Megapixel Super HAD CCD with RGB Primary Color Filter and Double anti dust system (anti-static coating and CCD shift mechanism) |
| Effective Resolution | 14.2 million pixels |
| Color Depth | 36-Bit RGB |
| Color Modes | Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night view, Sunset, Black & White, Adobe RGB |
| Image File Formats |
RAW JPEG (Fine, Normal) RAW + JPEG |
| Recorded Resolution |
3:2 Aspect Ratio Large (4592 x 3056) Medium (3408 x 2272) Small (2288 x 1520) 16:9 Aspect Ratio |
| Video Recording | No |
| Audio Recording | No |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | A-mount (compatible with Sony Alpha & Minolta A-type bayonet mount) |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1.5x |
| Optical Image Stabilization | Yes (CCD-Shift Super SteadyShot system) |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | TTL Phase Detection AF (9 Area Multi-point with 1 Cross Sensor) |
| Focus Modes | Auto Focus, Adjustable Spot AF, Visual Focus Confirm |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity |
Auto ISO Selectable ISO (100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200) |
| Shutter Type | Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane shutter |
| Shutter Speed | 30 - 1/4000 seconds, Bulb |
| Mirror Lock-Up | Yes |
| Exposure Metering | Multi-Pattern Measuring (1200-zone Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted, Spot) with AF Illuminator Light |
| Exposure Modes | Automatic, Program Auto (with Program Shift), Shutter priority, Aperture priority, Manual, Scene selection, AE Lock, Exposure compensation (+/-2.0 EV, 0.3 EV step), AE Bracketing (0.3 EV or 0.7 EV increments, 3 frames) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Flash, Color Tempature/Color filter, Custom each setting adjustable)tep. |
| Scene Modes | Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset, Night portrait |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Pop-up Flash (Auto, Fill-flash, Rear flash sync, Slow Sync, High Speed Sync, Red-Eye Reduction) |
| Effective Flash Range | Up to 39' (12 m) |
| External Flash Connection |
Hot Shoe Wireless flash (with HVL-F56AM & HVL-F36AM) |
| External Flash Control | ADI / Pre-flash TTL flash metering with Flash Compensation (HVL-F56AM & HVL-F36AM Flash units supported) |
| Maximum Flash Synchronization Speed | 1/160 second |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Time | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Shutter Lag | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Time Between Shots | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Burst Capability |
2 fps JPEG: Up to memory capacity RAW: 6 frames RAW + JPEG: 3 frames |
| Self Timer | 10 seconds & 2 seconds |
| Interval Recording | No |
| Date & Time Stamp | No (included in image metadata and available when using PictBridge) |
| Memory & Power | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | No |
| Compatible Memory Cards |
CompactFlash (Type I & II) Microdrive Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo media with optional MSAC-MCF1N adapter) |
| File Size | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Battery Type | NP-FM500H Lithium-ion rechargeable battery (7.2V, 1600 mAh) |
| Power Adapter | AC Adapter (optional) |
| Input/Output | |
|---|---|
| Computer Interface | USB 2.0 Hi-speed |
| Direct Print Capable | Yes (PictBridge) |
| Remote Control | Sony Remote Commander (optional) |
| Video Output | NTSC & PAL |
| System & Software Requirements |
Windows 2000, XP, Vista Macintosh OS X (10.3 or later) |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder | Fixed eye-level viewfinder with Pentamirror, spherical acute matte focusing screen, and Diopter Adjustment (-2.5 to +1.0 diopter) |
| Viewfinder Info | AF information (AF points, focus confirmation light), exposure information (shutter speed, aperture, manual exposure, spot metering circle, ISO speed, exposure level, exposure warning), flash information (flash ready, flash exposure level), white balance correction, JPEG recording, number of remaining shots, memory card information, Anti-shake system indicator |
| Depth-of-Field Preview | No |
| LCD Display | 2.7" Tiltable TFT Color LCD (230,000 pixels) with Clear Photo LCD Plus design |
| Information Display | Uses 2.7" LCD to present all camera info; Metering mode, Shooting mode, Aperture, AF mode, AF point, Shutter speed, ISO, Shots remaining, Drive mode, Battery level, Exposure compensation setting, Flash compensation setting. |
| Language Options | English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Russian, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Finish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian |
| Playback Options | Single Image, Index (4, 9, 16 selectable), Image + text, Image + text + histogram, Enlarged playback (Up to approximately 5x), Luminance limit Display, File browser, Slideshow, Instant bracket playback, Enlarged display, Automatic rotate function, Image correction (Contrast, Color saturation, Sharpness, Hue (5 levels)) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 4 x 5.3 x 3" (99 x 138 x 75 mm) without lens |
| Weight | 20.5 oz. (582 g) without battery or lens |
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
Have an A100 and this one adds live view and better low light capability, both useful for indoor pictures without flash that I often have to take. I have Nikon 35mm cameras and love them and their ergonomics. Sony's is very good as well.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
Did extensive research and found the camera to be best suited for me and my level of photography and B&H to have the best deal. I would by again form B&H in a heartbeat!
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I use this for nature and landscapes, plus general photography. I waited to get a dslr until I thought the technology had matured and I can use my Minolta lenses--well worth the wait! The liveview and flip down viewfinder make this operable for low angles (saves squatting down). The sony software needs significant improvement to compare to nearly any product, in particular the noise reduction on RAW is not nearly as good as other software I use. Menus are easy and fast. As usual these days the manual is fairly useless, and there is not as much aftermarket literature for this camera--Sony should follow Nikon's lead with expert classes and workshops. This completely reinvigorated my interest in photography! Adding HD video like the Nikon D90 would make this a Nikon slayer.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
is a great camera, and my first one. i love it, i love it
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
NICE TO HAVE OPTION OF LIVE VIEW AND VIEWFINDER
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I bought this camera because of the compatibilty with Minolta lenses since I have many dollars invested in them.
The camera has more bells and whistles than I will probably ever use but in time, I hope to learn.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I bought the camera just before a month-long trip to Thailand. I shot landscape, night time, portrait, and even fireworks photos. It performed quite well for all. Its low light capability is impressive, and the 14.2 MP resolution is a big improvement over the 10.2 MP of the @100. The processing software that comes with the camera can be updated to the latest version (v. 3.0) by downloading from the Sony web site. I love the Dynamic Range Optimization feature! The Liveview is OK for indoor work, but outside on a bright day, the LCD is really hard to see. Not Sony's fault, just nature.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I bought this camera as a XMas present to my wife. She had grown frustrated with the small P&S she had. I have an A700 myself so I thought by getting her this camera she would have a chance to get to use my lenses and accessories. Well, what can I say. The Image Quality of this little camera impressed me! It is light, easy to carry along and takes great pictures with excellent detail, colour and sharpness. Some may consider it a beginner's camera, but I feel it will be difficult to outgrow. Paired with the excellent Sony 16-105mm zoom, it's an unbeatable kit to carry around everywhere.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I bought this camera as an upgrade from the Maxum 5D. Each time I use it, I am more impressed. The controls are easy to use and there is a lot of flexibility in the pre-programmed options such as white balance etc. It's a bit heavy but replacing the strap makes it easier to carry. I don't use the live-view too often, but it is a nice feature. No complaints!
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I bought this camera on sale with 16-105mm lens kit to have a small travel SLR camera.
Pros:
- Small, well built
- Built-in image stabilizer (no need for image stabilized lenses like Canon)
- Tilting LCD screen, useful for macro and special angles photography
- 14.2 megapixels
- good value for the money
Cons:
- Sometimes it takes too long to turn it on and shoot
- Battery life is not great but it is acceptable
Overall I am happy with my purchase.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I resisted the digital era for as long as I could - and, now I can't believe I waited so long! This camera is easy to use and takes great pictures. I thought I would miss the dark room, but its fun to mess around with photo shop programs.
The only complaint I have about the camera is that its a little louder than I expected. Other than that, its easy to use, totally intuitive (I also resist reading user manuals!) and my little nieces and nephews love seeing their images instantly!
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I use this camera for general photography use and hopefully more professional uses along the road.
I love the built in Super Steady Shot, don't have to buy lenses with VR or Image Stabliazation on it. The Adjustable screen is also a very handy feature along with all the other in-depth features that are included.
The only thing that would change my mind about buying this camera was the price. I reviewed a lot of other cameras before deciding, but I'm glad I chose this one. Was well worth the extra money.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I use this product for outdoor photography,and high school sports I really like that it has the live view option you are able to see what the color temp. is doing to your photo instantly without having to take the picture and I have not had to do much in photoshop to get the colors that should be there from the photo that you take. Also all of my Minolta lens and flash work on this camera.
I have not yet found things that I do not like about this camera.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
I purchased this camera to take with me to Israel in September and just recently started using it for various photo opportunities. I've found it to be very user friendly, with simple changes of recording format (RAW, Raw & JPG, Fine, and standard). Two years ago I purchased the Sony DSLR A100 and have been very pleased with it, that purchasing the A350 was an easy decision. So far, I am extremely pleased with this camera and will continue to look to Sony when making future purchases.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
My first DSLR. So far I am very happy with the results! I hope it holds up as well as my 9xi has.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
It is smaller than I thought it would be, and also very very easy to use.
The details the 14.2 megapixel can get are fantastic!
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
Very easy to operate. All my Maxxum lenses fit. I mainly take candids and camera is very easy to switch between modes. Battery life is good.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
Many great features and easy to use. The easy to use function and main menus are best-in-class. The camera is lightweight. The articulating screen is great for low-angle shots. Price is excellent for such a feature packed, high quality camera.
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Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 SLR Digital Camera (Camera Body):
This is my first digital SLR camera after owning several compact digitals. The camera features and performance have delivered very good results. The controls and menu functions are easily mastered and manipulated and the level of detail captured by the sensor is amazing. I use the live view often when taking pictures of groups, at concerts, or when I want a shot from an overhead angle. I often have to shoot choir concerts with available light and the image stablization feature has given many shots that would otherwise have been lost.
I purchased the Sony 18-250mm lens with this camera, which minimizes the need for additional lenses. One regret is that the camera and lens are not balanced well when hanging from the camera strap around the neck or shoulder.
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