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A memory card is not included with the camera.
Get a high-capacity memory card so you don't get caught without memory.
The Sony DSLR-A500 Digital SLR is a camera with 12.3 MP for images with great detail. The APS-C sensor yields high-sensitivity and depth-of-field control. The Sony Exmor CMOS image sensor combined with the BIONZ processor enables a high ISO of 12,800 that yields low-light pictures with lower noise and reduced loss of picture detail.
The DSLR-A500 has a number of built-in features to guarantee sharp and perfectly exposed images. Smile Shutter technology enables the camera to automatically take a shot when in Live View mode, and a Face Detection system recognizes and adjusts the camera for faces in a given scene. The camera boasts 6 creative style settings and 6 scene modes which adjust the camera for optimized exposures.
It can save images as RAW or JPEG formats (separately or in tandem), and with dual media slots files can be stored on Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC media cards (all sold separately).
The DSLR-A500 kit comes with the Sony's 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens with a Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) that delivers silent autofocus operation, covering everything from wide angle to midrange telephoto shots.
The 3.0" Extra Fine LCD display tilts up or down 90° to frame high- and low-angle shots. Eye-Start Autofocus begins focusing as soon as the camera is raised to the eye, and the 9-Point AF Sensor with Center Cross enables accurate focusing.
| Camera Type | Sony Alpha Digital SLR camera with built-in flash and inter-changeable lenses |
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12.3MP |
| Sensor | APS-C size Exmor CMOS sensor (23.5 X 15.6mm) |
| Processor | BIONZ image processor |
| Bit Depth | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| File Formats |
RAW RAW+JPEG JPEG Fine JPEG Standard |
| File Size |
Still Actual 16:9 : L (10M): 4272 X 2400 M (5.4M): 3104 X 1744 S (2.5M): 2128 X 1192 Still Actual 3:2 : L (12M): 4272 X 2848 M (6.4M): 3104 X 2072 S (3.0M): 2128 X 1416 |
| Color Filter | RGB primary color filters |
| Image Stabilization | SteadyShot INSIDE stabilization |
| Focusing Area | Wide (Up to 9 active focus points), Spot, Local (9 local areas selectable) |
| Focus Type | TTL phase detection system |
| Number of Focusing Points | 9 points |
| ISO | Auto, 200 to 12800 |
| Focusing Sensitivity Range | EV0 - 18 (ISO100) |
| Focusing Modes | Manual Focus, Check Live View, Predictive Control, Focus Lock, Eye-Start AF, AF Illuminator |
| Modes |
AF modes : Single-Shot AF, Automatic AF, Continuous AF, (AF/MF selectable) Drive Mode : Single-Shot, Continuous, Speed Priority, Self-Timer, Bracketing; Cont./ WB, Remote Commander |
| Tripod Mount | Yes, 1/4"-20 |
| Conveniences |
Anti-dust function : Charge protection coating on low pass filter and image-sensor shift mechanism BRAVIA Sync: Via HDMI with compatible BRAVIA HDTV Creative Style: Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, B/W Setting Adjustment for: Contrast, Saturation, Sharpness Dynamic Range Optimizer: DRO; off, Auto/Level (Lv1-5) Auto HDR, Off, Auto Exposure (up to 3EV between 1.0-3.0EV in 0.5EV steps) Live View : Quick Auto Focus, Live View Manual, Focus Check Live View Scene Mode(s): Flash Off, Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports Action, Sunset, Night portrait User Interface: Easy-to-understand Graphic Display and on-screen Help Guide, user-friendly function menu |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens | Sony SAL-1855 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens |
| Filter Size | 55mm |
| Zoom | 18-55mm |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.82' (0.25m) |
| Groups/Elements | 7/8 |
| Length | 3.75" (70mm) |
| Diameter | 3.75" (70mm) |
| Lens Mount | Sony Alpha lens, Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lens |
| Weight | 7.4 oz (210 g) |
| Shooting Controls | |
|---|---|
| Shooting Modes | Auto, Program Auto (P), Aperture Priority (A), Shutter Priority (S), Manual (M) |
| Metering | TTL metering w/ 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC |
| Exposure Modes | Flash Off, Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports Action, Sunset, Night Portrait |
| Scene Modes | Flash Off, Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports Action, Sunset, Night Portrait |
| White Balance | Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Flash, Color Temperature, Color Filter, Custom |
| Mirror Lock-Up | No |
| Burst Capability | Up to 5 fps; 4 fps using Live View |
| Self Timer | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Remote Control | No |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Effective Flash Range | 18mm in focal-length of lens attached |
| External Flash Connection |
Optional: HVL-F58AM External Flash HVL-F42AM External Flash HVL-F20AM External Flash |
| Dedicated Flash System | ADI flash (automatic change for Pre-flash TTL) |
| Max Sync Speed | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Flash Exposure Compensation | ±2EV (in 1/3 EV-stop increments) |
| Guide Number | 12 (in meters at ISO100) |
| Recycling Time | Approx. 4 sec |
| Built-in Memory | No |
| Memory Card Type |
Memory Stick PRO Duo media SD and SDHC memory card |
| Viewfinder Type | Fixed eye-level, penta-Dach-mirror |
| Viewfinder Display | Spherical Acute Matte Screen |
| Viewfinder Coverage | Field of View : 95% |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.80x (with 50mm lens at infinity) |
| Viewfinder Info |
Diopter Adjustment : -2.5 - +1.0m-1 Eye relief : Approx. 19 mm from the eyepiece Approx. 15 mm from the eyepiece frame at -1 diopter |
| Display |
3" TFT Clear Photo Plus™ LCD (230,400 pixels)
1
Please Note:Viewable area measured diagonally close |
| Display Area | Coverage : 100% (Playback), 90% (Live View) |
| LCD Information |
Angle Adjustment : Yes (upward by up to 90°, downward by up to 90°) Brightness Control : Auto Brightness Control (Auto setting in 2 steps Manual setting in 5 steps) |
| OS Compatibility |
Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional Windows XP SP2 Windows Vista Mac OS X (v10.1.3) or later |
| Software |
Included: PMB (Picture Motion Browser) 4.3.01 Image Data Converter SR 3.1 Image Data Lightbox SR |
| Ports | USB2.0 Hi-Speed (mass-storage, PTP) |
| Operating/Storage Temperature | Operating Temperature : 32 - 104° F (0 - 40 ° C) |
| Battery Type |
Battery Type : NP-FM500H InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable Approx. 1000 images with viewfinder, 520 images in live view mode |
| Base Dimensions (WxHxD) | 5.39 x 4.09 x 3.31" (137 X 104 X 84mm) (excluding protrusions) |
| Weight | Approx. 20.42 oz (597g) (without battery, memory card, accessories and lens) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Reviewed by 22 customers
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
We have only had the camera for a couple weeks... and so far just love it! It actually was a gift for my teenage daughter, who just finished a 35mm photography class and was ready to use a DSL. I deliberated on this for a while. I chose the Sony because it DID NOT have the "video" option. We want a camera to take "pictures". And it takes FANTASTIC PICS! The clarity on some of the shots she has taken are incredible! The large and "movable" view-finder are extra nice also. A big positive is the low-light it can take a great pic in. You really don't need the flash unless it's pitch-dark. The only negative - and I really don't think it's a negative - is the weight of the camera... but aren't all good quality cameras heavy to a degree? I was looking at Canon and Pentax, but decided to go with the Sony!
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
Very easy to use, tilt large lcd screen comes in handy when it comes to shooting above your head or bending down. I'm a amateur so i bought this just for regularly outdoor shots.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
Was looking for a good DSLR to replace my Minolta SLR and yet be able to utilize my Minolta lenses. I was directed to Sony since they bought out Minolta/Konica a few years ago. The fact that they retained the same lens mount was great news, enabling me to use my other Minolta lenses.
I researched all the Sony DSLR's and ended up chosing the A500. So far I am extremely happy with the A500.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
Use this camera for events , does the job very well. Long battery life and good reliability. Minolta compatibility is a plus
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
good solution for photo enthusiast and semi-pro photographer, excellent price/quality
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
I love this camera. Over the past 30 years I have only shot 35mm film cameras. But after changing to digital format and looking at everything under the sun, I decided to buy the a500. Most camera's are about the same. what I liked is the fact the live view screen tilts. That was a big factor, and the price. This camera does not have the video option, but I didn't want it. Good camera for what it is. My 8yr old grandson uses it, it's that simple !
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
I am a beginner so I love the pop up explanations that come up on every setting reminding me what they do. I am a fan of Sony products and this camera stays in line with the quality I find with Sony. I like that it came with a lens. I like the tilting display, that is handy with low shots. I don't have to lay on the ground to see the shot. The only negative thing would be that this camera does not have a 100 ISO.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
I purchased this camera for my mother. It's her first digital camera and she loves it. It's simple enough for her to use yet takes pictures like her old Minolta. Plus, it takes all of her old lenses! We're very pleased and would purchase again.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
I found this camera a dream to use, anyone that operates off auto will find this camera great! Live view is super and the pictures are out standing
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
I was really excited to use this dslr, especially because it compares so closely with the more popular big name brands.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
Takes amazing photos for the price, I used to own a canon t1i which I paid about 700$ for and this actually takes far better pictures and the built in HDR is breathtaking.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
Easy to use, great photos !
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
We bought this camera to take pictures of our kids performing. Our daughter is in the marching band with the color guard and our son plays hockey. The camera is easy to use and takes great action shots. The only down side is the extra lens we bought is heavy.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
Pros:
- In camera image stablizer (so you dont have to look for that feature in the lens)
- easy to use, all the buttons and controls are in the most comfortable places
- doesnt feel cheap as A330
- can insert 1 memory stick + 1 SD
- ISO up to 12800
Cons:
- No video recording, but who cares :)
- battery life is not as good as advertised
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
I spent about a month comparing other 12.3 MP cameras and this particular Sony DSLR. While the others offer video, you pay for that option. I didn't need video, and since I enjoy Sony's design in their productsI took a chance. So Far I love it, takes excellent Pictures in Low-light situations using Aperture Priority Mode. For anyone who wants a good quality product that takes excellent photos in JPEG or RAW, but at an affordable Price, this is the one to try. It offers many features of High-end cameras but at a cost just above low end cameras. Can shoot many FPS, even with Live view, very impressed.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
The picture is great even in low light.
Taking pictures of fires and accidents gives a good depth of field and very well detailed.
Family pictures of the kids having a water fight give good stop action pictures.
And the operation is easy even if you leave it in the auto mode.
David
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
I am not a professional photographer and this is my first DSLR camera. Since this was a large purchase for me and added a lot of new features I did quite a bit of research before making this purchase. I chose the Sony A500 for the features and user friendliness that it has given me.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
For an amateur this is a great camera. Auto or manual it fills the need. Accepts my old Minolta lenses.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
Spent a fair amount of time comparing the Nikon 5000 and this camera before finally settling on the Sony. So far, I couldn't be more pleased with my choice. After about 600 shots, I've really been pleased with the battery life, shooting ability in low light conditions, and overall quality of pictures in varying conditions. Still learning to use the multitude of features.
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Comments about Sony DSLR-A500 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens:
I bought this camera as an upgrade to my Sony A100. What a difference. The Quick AF Live view on the 3" rotatable screen and the upgrade in ISO sensitivity are the best upgrades in my opinion.
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