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Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens

  • Includes Free:
  • Lowepro Toploader Zoom 45 AW Bag (Black) & Transcend 16GB SDHC Card ($53.44 Total Value)
  • Price: $689.00
  • Includes Free:
  • Lowepro Toploader Zoom 45 AW Bag (Black) & Transcend 16GB SDHC Card ($53.44 Total Value)
  • B&H # SOSLTA55L
  • Mfr# SLT-A55VL

Product Highlights

  • 16.2MP High Resolution
  • Translucent Mirror for Fast Focus
  • 921K Dot 3" Tiltable LCD screen
  • 3x 18-55mm Lens (Equiv to 27-82.5mm)
  • Built-In GPS
  • Full HD 1080/60i Video
  • 3D Sweep Panorama Mode
  • Quick AF for Full HD Movie Capture
  • 10 Frames Per Second Continuous Shooting
  • Up to ISO 12800 Sensitivity

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If you like to live on the edge, this Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens will take you to the leading edge of DSLR technology, with the first-ever translucent mirror design. For the first time, a high-resolution live image preview with rapid, accurate phase detection autofocus is available at all times--via the LCD or the electronic viewfinder. This means that even moving objects stay in sharp focus at all times, whether you're shooting full HD video or stills.

That's not all the A55 has to offer, though. It's got 16.2MP of high resolution captured on an  APS-C size HD CMOS image sensor,  a 3x DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 (35mm equivalent 27-82.5mm) lens,  built-in GPS that records the location and time of every shot you take and lets you view your images on a map (with compatible computer and Internet applications), an incredibly sharp, bright 3" tiltable LCD screen with 921,000 dots,  built-in flash,  full HD 1080/60i video, a fabulous 3D panorama mode that combines 3 pictures into a 3D image, and up to 10 frames per second continuous shooting. 

With the image stabilization, Hand-held Night Shot mode, Multi-frame NR mode (which takes 6 photos in rapid succession and uses the best data from each to create 1 stunning picture), and sensitivity up to ISO 25600, you won't ever have to miss a picture due to darkness again.

Face Detection recognizes faces and optimizes exposure and focus for them, Smile Shutter takes the picture only when it detects the subject smiling. There's also an automatic HDR mode which take 3 photos of a high-contrast situation, and melds the highlight, shadow and mid-tone data together to create 1 optimal photo. Of course the A55 also has creative modes such as Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, B/W (Contrast, Saturation, Sharpness adjustable in +/-3 steps), Macro, Sports Action, Night Portrait, and many more. 

16.2 Megapixel Resolution
You get incredible detail and gorgeous enlargements. Thanks to the 16.2 megapixel APS-C sensor size and Sony Exmor APS HD CMOS technology, the camera achieves high resolution with no penalty in low-light situations.
Translucent Mirror Technology
Other DSLRs can shoot. Or they can focus with the speed and precision of Phase Detection AF. They cannot do both at once. The SLT-A55 is the world's first DSLR with Translucent Mirror Technology that directs light to both the image sensor and the Phase Detection AF sensor simultaneously.
Built-in GPS
An integrated GPS receiver records the location and time of every shot you take and lets you view your images on a map with compatible computer and Internet applications, so you can remember where you took your favorite shots.
DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 Lens
3x DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 (35mm equivalent 27-82.5mm) zoom lens
Full HD 1080/60i Movies
This is one of the very few DSLRs with 1080/60i Full HD, exactly the same resolution and frame rate as most broadcast and cable HDTV channels. Records in 1080/60i AVCHD format, 1080/30p high definition in PC-friendly MP4 format and standard definition 480/30p in MP4 format.
10 Frames Per Second Continuous
The translucent mirror makes it far easier to capture the decisive soccer kick or your baby at her absolute cutest. The Sony SLT-A55 camera shoots full, 16.2 MP resolution pictures at up to 10 fps while maintaining continuous auto focus and auto exposure.
Quick AF for Full HD Movie Capture
When most DSLRs shoot video, their Contrast AF is slow and visibly "hunts" for focus. The Quick AF Full HD Movie retains the same fast, precise Phase Detection you enjoy for still images. It's a decisive advantage for tracking fast-moving subjects and a major benefit of Translucent Mirror Technology.
APS-C Size HD CMOS Image Sensor
With 19.5 times the area of the typical camcorder image sensor, APS-C makes the difference between amateur and professional-looking video, delivering an exceptional combination of high resolution, high sensitivity and gorgeous, blurred backgrounds.
Multi-Frame NR
Experience incredible low-light shooting without a flash. The camera captures six images in a fraction of a second. Combining the data from all six, it creates a single image with a reduction in noise equivalent to two additional steps of ISO sensitivity. Sensitivity selectable up to ISO 25600. (Recommended for still subjects.)
Sony Exmor Technology
Conventional image sensors use only a handful of analog-to-digital (A/D) converters, which can slow you down. The Exmor sensor provides more than 4,000 column-parallel A/D converters. This helps enable continuous shooting at up to 7 frames per second.
Hand-Held Night Shot
Get cleaner and sharper nighttime pictures-beyond the capability of traditional cameras-without using flash or a tripod. The camera captures six images in a fraction of a second. Combining the data with separate algorithms for still and moving parts of the picture reduces blur, minimizes noise and enables extraordinary detail.
Auto HDR Built Into Camera
Captures more scene dynamic range than a single exposure can handle-and more range than photo film. Combines the best highlight detail from one shot, the best mid-tones from a second and the best shadow detail from a third for one incredible shot. Captures in a split second. (Recommended for still subjects.)
3D Sweep Panorama Mode
Capture vast scenic vistas and 16:9 shots in spectacular 3D. As you sweep across the panorama, the camera records separate right-eye and left-eye images that make landscapes come alive on your 3D television3. Records both JPEG and MPO file formats.
Eye-Level Electronic Viewfinder
The Tru-finder Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) is super bright, easy to see with 1.1x magnification, ultra-sharp with 1.44 million dots (1.15 effective) and provides 100% frame coverage. Exposure preview and informative overlays make operation easy.
15-Point Auto Focus
To maximize the value of Translucent Mirror Technology, Sony incorporates Phase Detection AF of great sophistication. Three cross sensors maximize precision.
Tilt/swivel 3" LCD Screen
Tilt it up or down to frame high- and low-angle shots that would otherwise be hit-or-miss. Tilt and swivel under the camera for self-portraits. Fold it flush to the camera with the LCD exposed for shooting or protected for travel.
Main Sensor Quick AF Live View
This the world's first DSLR to combine the optimum focus of Phase Detection with high quality Live View images right from the main sensor. This is made possible by Sony Translucent Mirror Technology. You get accurate images and 100% framing on the LCD monitor or eye-level viewfinder.
Eye-Level Finder for HD Mov
The eye-level finder is one of the reasons people love DSLRs. But that finder goes dark whenever you shoot HD Movies. Until now. The Sony SLT-A55 enables you to shoot movies with the added stability you get holding the camera up to your face and using the eye-level finder for framing a scene and focus.
921K Dot TruBlack LCD Screen
Sony's Xtra Fine LCD monitor has 921K dots for superb resolution. The TruBlack screen includes a special resin layer to suppress internal reflections, increasing contrast compared to conventional LCDs. Sunny Weather mode boosts visibility even further in bright sunlight.
Phase Detection Auto Focus
While Contrast Detection AF often hunts for correct focus, Phase Detection AF knows exactly where correct focus is, and goes straight for it. The Sony SLT-A55 is the world's first consumer camera to provide Phase Detection AF when capturing HD movies as well as during still image capture, either using the viewfinder or Live View on the LCD.
Sweep Panorama Mode
Capture expansive landscapes automatically. Press the shutter and sweep vertically or horizontally. The camera does the rest, continuously shooting images and stitching them together. Up to 23 MP image size.
Main Sensor Quick AF Live View
This the world's first DSLR to combine the optimum focus of Phase Detection with high quality Live View images right from the main sensor. This is made possible by Sony Translucent Mirror Technology. You get accurate images and 100% framing on the LCD monitor or eye-level viewfinder.
ISO 12800 Sensitivity
Incredibly clear low-light pictures without sacrificing detail, made possible by the low-noise Exmor APS HD CMOS image sensor and refined BIONZ image processor.
Live View in LCD or EVF
You can use both the LCD monitor and Electronic Viewfinder for composing shots. Both provide a what-you-see-is-what-you-get preview of white balance, focus, depth of field, exposure and 100% framing accuracy, plus informative on-screen displays.
AUTO+ (Advanced Auto) Mode
Get cleaner, more dynamic pictures and fewer missed shots. Unifies and simplifies Sony intelligent technologies, the camera automatically recognizes the correct scene mode, then quickly shoots and combines up to six shots to produce images with greater clarity, optimum dynamic range using Auto HDR technology and lower image noise using 6 shots layering technology.
Pro-Style "Rack Focus" Movie Effect
A hallmark of today's movies is the "rack focus" effect, when the cinematographer changes focus between background and foreground subjects. This usually involves careful planning, a tape measure and dedicated a crew member for "pulling" focus. With the SLT-A55, you can perform this pro-style effect simply by changing the selected AF Area within the frame.
Help Guide
Provides ready reference to advanced camera functions, helping to develop your confidence and skills as a photographer.
SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization
Image stabilization reduces blur 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. You'll reduce blur with every a-mount lens, including macro and wide-aperture standard zoom lenses.
BIONZ Image Processor
The brains of the camera is a refined version of Sony's BIONZ image processor. Its chroma noise reduction delivers high-resolution, low-noise photos even at ISO 12800 sensitivity. Also enables 7 fps continuous shooting at full resolution, Sweep Panorama mode and more.
1200-Zone Exposure Metering
Reads exposure directly from the main image sensor. Choice of Multi, Center and Spot metering accommodates a full range of shooting situations
RAW Image Capture
Saves your pictures as compact JPEG files or ultra-high quality RAW files or both. RAW files save images prior to de-mosaicing, white balance, sharpness and color enhancement. This retains maximum latitude for enhancing the image on your PC.
Smile Shutter Technology
Captures a smile the moment it happens. Simply select the Smile Shutter mode and the camera takes the picture automatically. You can prioritize children or adults and adjust the smile sensitivity.
Face Detection Technology
The camera can automatically detect up to eight individual faces and adjust focus, exposure, white balance and flash to help deliver crisp, properly lit images of family and friends. Can prioritize children or adults.
Six Creative Style Settings
Control how the camera processes your images with six finishing styles: Standard, Vivid, B&W, Sunset, Portrait and Landscape. You can even fine-tune contrast, saturation, and sharpness to your personal taste.
Eight Scene Selection Modes
These help you get the shot by optimizing the camera for specific shooting situations. Select from Portrait, Sports Action, Macro, Landscape, Sunset, Night View, Night Portrait and Handheld Twilight Shot modes.
Anti-Dust Technology
Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the CMOS sensor clean, resulting in consistently clear pictures. First a static-free coating on the sensor's low-pass filter helps repel dust. Then vibration automatically dislodges dust from the sensor.
HDMI Output for HD Viewing
Enjoy HD movies and stunning still images on a compatible HDTV. The camera includes an HDMI output. In addition, the BRAVIA Sync system works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs enabling you to control camera playback using the television's remote4.
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. The built-in flash can also trigger a wireless accessory flash (sold separately). The integrated hot shoe enables you to expand your lighting options with a range of accessory flashes (sold separately).
P/A/S/M Exposure Modes
The camera offers a full range of controls from the beginner's AUTO+ mode to P/A/S/M: Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual. On-screen prompts help you refine your skills, build your confidence and exercise greater creative control.
Up to 330 Shots of Battery Life
Take up to 330 shots on a single charge 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.
Slot for Two Media Types
For cost-effective, convenient storage and sharing of your images, the camera accepts Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC/SDXC media (Class 4 or higher recommended). (Memory card is required
Remote Capability
Works with the RMT-DSLR1 Remote Commander wireless remote control, sold separately.
Versatile On-Screen Displays
Informative displays in the LCD monitor and electronic viewfinder include digital level gauge, graphic display of exposure settings.
PhotoTV HD Compatibility
Optimizes compatible BRAVIA televisions for gorgeous display of digital pictures.
Index and Slide Show Display
Quickly review your photos using 6- or 12-frame index views, or as an automatic slide show with fade-in/fade-out effect.
Imaging
Camera Type Digital SLR with Interchangeable lenses
Lens Mount Sony Alpha/ Minolta
Camera Format APS-C / (1.5x Crop Factor)
Resolution Effective Pixels: 16.2 Megapixels
16 MP: 4912 x 3264
Sensor Type / Size CMOS, 23.5 x 15.6 mm
File Formats Still Images: JPEG, RAW
Movies: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Audio: AAC
Memory Card Type Memory Stick Pro Duo
Memory Stick PRO HG-Duo
SD
SDHC
SDXC
Image Stabilization Optical
AV Recording
Video Recording Yes, NTSC
Aspect Ratio 3:2, 16:9
Focus Control
Focus Type Auto
Focus Mode Single-servo AF (S), Continuous-servo AF (C)
Autofocus Points 15
Viewfinder/Display
Viewfinder Type Electronic
Viewfinder Coverage 100%
Viewfinder Magnification Approx. 1.10x
Diopter Adjustment - 4 to +4 m
Display Screen 3" Rear Screen   LCD (921600)
Screen Coverage 100%
Live View Yes
Exposure Control
ISO Sensitivity 100-12800
Metering Method Spot metering, Center-weighted average metering, Multi-zone metering
Exposure Modes Modes: Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Programmed Auto, Shutter Priority
Compensation: -2 EV to +2 EV (in 0.3 EV steps)
White Balance Modes Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Incandescent, Kelvin, Manual, Shade
Flash
Built-in Flash Yes: Auto
Continuous Shooting Up to 10 fps
Performance
Self Timer 2 sec, 10 sec
Connectivity AV Output, USB 2.0
Software Requirements Windows: XP (SP3), Vista (SP2), 7
Mac: OS X 10.4 or later
Power
Battery 1x NP-FW50  Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
Operating/Storage Temperature 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C)
Physical
Dimensions (WxHxD) 4.87 x 3.62 x 3.33" / 12.37 x 9.19 x 8.46 cm
Weight 15.27 oz / 433  g Camera body only
Kit Lens
Focal Length 18 - 55 mm
Comparable APS-C Focal Length: 27 - 82.5 mm
Aperture Maximum: f/3.5 - 5.6
Minimum: f/22 - 22
Minimum Focus Distance 9.84" (24.99 cm)
Groups/Elements 7/8
Diaphragm Blades 7
Autofocus Yes
Image Stabilization No
Filter Thread Front: 55 mm
Dimensions (DxL) Approx. 2.75 x 2.75" (6.99 x 6.99 cm)
Weight 7.5 oz (213 g)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens
 
4.7

(based on 75 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (59)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (13)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (3)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

99%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Good image quality (70)
  • Easy to use (66)
  • Fast / accurate auto-focus (66)
  • Image stabilization (56)
  • Fast shutter speed (54)

Cons

  • Short battery life (29)
  • Lag / shutter delay (4)

Best Uses

  • Landscape/scenery (53)
  • Family photos (51)
  • Travel (44)
  • Low light (39)
  • Sports/action (39)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Casual photographer (32), Photo enthusiast (32), Semi-pro photographer (8)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (63), Yes (12)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Easy to use, small to carry and many

I tried to buy this A55VL since it was launched at [...] in September but no shops had this one in stock.[...]I learned how to use this camera with the...Read complete review

I tried to buy this A55VL since it was launched at [...] in September but no shops had this one in stock.[...]I learned how to use this camera with the manual and many review pages on the internet and this one has plenty amount of features that can help me shot many different situations easily. I can raise ISO setting more than 3200 to have 1/30s shutter speed in the dark place and the noise of picture is really small. If I need ISO6400 or more, the multi-shot noise reduction can help me to get a picture with unnoticeable noises even with moving persons or objects. Also sweep panorama makes simple and good panorama picture without difficulty like using Adobe Photoshop. I enjoyed this one when I visited the Universal Studio and Getty center in LA. Now I have a great background image for my 30 inch desktop monitor. Another good function is 10 burst shot mode. You can take 10 pictures in one second and keep going. Even though it has full HD video recording, with this burst mode you may have funny series of movements or one good focused picture for your fast running children.To fully use above functons(sweep panorama, multi-shot noise reduction, 10 burst mode and full HD movie), you may need a fast memory. I'm using PNY class 10 SDHC 8GB memory and this is fast enough and cheaper than Sandisk extreme series.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

great photos, video not so good when pan

bought this camera mainly for video. the photos are great. however when you record video and do pans or similar type moves, the video leaves a motion blur due to the cmos. I ...Read complete review

bought this camera mainly for video. the photos are great. however when you record video and do pans or similar type moves, the video leaves a motion blur due to the cmos. I think all dslrs do that tho.

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 75 customers

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5.0

Fast shooting, easy to use

By Chris the mom

from NJ

About Me Casual Photographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Easy To Use
  • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
  • Fast Shutter Speed
  • Good Image Quality
  • Good Image Stabilization
  • Large Clear LCD
  • Tilt /Swivel LCD

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Family Photos
    • Sports/Action

    Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

    I am an amateur photographer who just switched from a point & shoot to DSLR. I love this camera! I have mostly used it to take pictures of my kids playing sports and at school. The number of pictures the camera takes is astounding! And I thought that only some would come in clear, but 99% of them do! The camera has been pretty easy to figure out for mhy purposes. You definitely need a zoom lens in order to take advantage of the speed of the camera.
    I had considered the Canon T2i because I love the pictures that my old Canon P&S produced, but am totally satisfied with my purchase of the Sony.

    • Ease of Operation:
    • 7
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

    (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

     
    5.0

    highly recommend

    By shellybell23

    from Fort Worth, Texas

    About Me Casual Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Use
    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
    • Fast Shutter Speed
    • Good Image Quality
    • Good Image Stabilization
    • High ISO Performance
    • Large Clear LCD
    • Quiet
    • Tilt /Swivel LCD

    Cons

    • Short Battery Life

    Best Uses

    • Family Photos
    • Indoors/Low Light
    • Landscape/Scenery
    • Travel
    • Wildlife photos

    Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

    easy to use even for someone whose used to point and shoot

    • Ease of Operation:
    • 8
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

    (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

     
    5.0

    Takes great pictures without effort

    By Roger

    from Brigham City, UT

    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Use
    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
    • Fast Shutter Speed
    • Good Image Quality
    • Good Image Stabilization
    • Large Clear LCD
    • Quiet
    • Tilt /Swivel LCD

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Family Photos
      • Indoors/Low Light
      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Travel
      • Weddings/Events
      • Wildlife photos

      Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

      I have been a serious photographer for more than 40 years. This is the easiest to use camera I have ever owned. I enjoy doing all the technical settings myself, but my wife and I put the camera and flash on full auto at a family wedding. Out of nearly 500 images, nearly all were great, and we were free to concentrate on capturing the moment. There is no longer an urgency for me to learn all of the possible settings on this camera. It is a pretty smart camera without my help!

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Comment on this review

       
      5.0

      More that i want

      By Ric68

      from Mexico

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy To Use
      • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
      • Good Image Quality
      • Good Image Stabilization

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Family Photos
        • Indoors/Low Light
        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Travel

        Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

        easy for use
        excellent for take a lot of pictures

        • Ease of Operation:
        • 9
        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

         
        3.0

        it over heats after an hour of shooting

        By jashan

        from Turlock, CA

        About Me Photo Enthusiast

        Pros

        • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
        • Good Image Stabilization
        • High ISO Performance

        Cons

        • Lag / Shutter Delay
        • Over heating
        • Short Battery Life
        • Too small grip

        Best Uses

        • Sports/Action

        Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

        i used the camera for a week it was OK on pics and the autofocus for the video is amazing. One problem however, the A55 started to over heat as i was shooting a game outside with my 55-200mm lens on a pretty sunny day. i had to turn the camera off for about 5 minutes then it worked fine for about 30mins befor over heating again. and battery life should be improved. so i returned it n got myself a canon T3i its so far so good!

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

         
        5.0

        Outstanding Camera!

        By Wilder

        from Lindale, TX

        About Me Casual Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Easy To Use
        • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
        • Fast Shutter Speed
        • Good Image Quality
        • Good Image Stabilization
        • High ISO Performance
        • Tilt /Swivel LCD

        Cons

        • Short Battery Life

        Best Uses

        • Family Photos
        • Travel
        • Video

        Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

        Great camera for everyday use. No complaints so far.

        • Ease of Operation:
        • 9
        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

         
        5.0

        Wow. Impressive Performance-Easy to Use

        By John The Geek

        from Richmond, VA

        About Me Photo Enthusiast

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Easy To Use
        • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
        • Fast Shutter Speed
        • Good Image Quality
        • Good Image Stabilization

        Cons

        • No Silent Mode

        Best Uses

        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Sports/Action
        • Travel
        • Video
        • Weddings/Events
        • Wildlife photos

        Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

        I bought this camera days before a long distance vacation. I am the owner of two other Sony Alpha cameras and this is by far the best of them.

        I bought two extra batteries based on other reviews but never used more than 1 1/2 in a full day of shooting (2000+ pictures daily). I turned off instant review and used the viewfinder - more for expediency than for battery life.

        I am very pleased with the camera but would still like a completely 'silent' mode for shooting.

        The video output is impressive on a large screen LCD and the pictures are amazing for the conditions and my lack of experience with this particular model.

        • Ease of Operation:
        • 10
        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

         
        5.0

        "Fast/Great photos"

        By Vini

        from São Paulo, SP, Brazil

        About Me Photo Enthusiast

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Easy To Use
        • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
        • Fast Shutter Speed
        • Good Image Quality
        • Good Image Stabilization
        • High ISO Performance
        • Large Clear LCD
        • Quiet
        • Tilt /Swivel LCD

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Family Photos
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Sports/Action
          • Travel
          • Video
          • Weddings/Events
          • Wildlife photos

          Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

          I use this product to take pictures in my trips
          I like this camera because its very simple and fast to take pictures.
          I would like if when we buy this camera it could be a package with some filters.

          • Ease of Operation:
          • 9
          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          I would buy this camera again

          By Andriy1980

          from Clifton,nj

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Easy To Use
          • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
          • Fast Shutter Speed
          • Good Image Quality
          • Good Image Stabilization
          • High ISO Performance
          • Large Clear LCD

          Cons

          • Short Battery Life

          Best Uses

          • Family Photos
          • Indoors/Low Light
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Sports/Action
          • Travel
          • Video
          • Weddings/Events
          • Wildlife photos

          Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

          Easy too use

          • Ease of Operation:
          • 10
          • Was this a gift?:
          • Yes

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          Great camera for transition to Slt/Slr

          By Caroline

          from Dallas, Tx

          About Me Photo Enthusiast

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Easy To Use
          • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
          • Fast Shutter Speed
          • Good Image Quality
          • Good Image Stabilization
          • High ISO Performance
          • Large Clear LCD
          • Quiet
          • Tilt /Swivel LCD

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Family Photos
            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Travel
            • Weddings/Events

            Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

            New to Slt/Slr cameras from traditional point & shoot camera. Very easy to learn and use. Love the settings, takes beautiful pictures and small enough to carry without the bulk. I have small hands and am able to hold and maneuver it easily. This camera is a no brainer that I would recommend to anyone!

            • Ease of Operation:
            • 8
            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Comment on this review

            (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

             
            4.0

            great photos

            By superkittytv

            from new york, ny

            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easy To Use
            • Good Image Quality
            • Large Clear LCD

            Cons

            • Short Battery Life

            Best Uses

            • Sports/Action
            • Video

            Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

            use it to take photos for work and hd video

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Comment on this review

            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Love this camera.

            By Gnarly

            from Stonyford, CA

            About Me Photo Enthusiast

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easy To Use
            • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
            • Good Image Quality
            • Good Image Stabilization
            • High ISO Performance
            • Large Clear LCD
            • Quiet
            • Tilt /Swivel LCD

            Cons

            • Short Battery Life

            Best Uses

            • Family Photos
            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Sports/Action
            • Travel
            • Video
            • Wildlife photos

            Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

            I bought this camera as an upgrade to a compact DSLR without the price tag of normal DSLR. I am totally satisfied with the operation, form an fit of this camera. The memu and function selections are easy to find and use. I am a amateur who likes outdoor/wildlife photography and find that this unit fills my needs exactly. I also purchased the Sony 75-300mm lens to round out it's capability.

            • Ease of Operation:
            • 9
            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Comment on this review

             
            5.0

            Best Blend of Technology and Traditiion

            By Greg Frazier Nature Photographer

            from Jacksonville, FL

            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easy To Use
            • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
            • Fast Shutter Speed
            • Good Image Quality
            • Good Image Stabilization
            • High ISO Performance
            • Large Clear LCD
            • Lightweight
            • Quiet
            • Tilt /Swivel LCD
            • Versatile

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Family Photos
              • Indoors/Low Light
              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Travel
              • Weddings/Events
              • Wildlife photos

              Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

              As an avid nature photographer, the features of this camera are impeccable; from the 10 fps to the wide range of aperture, shutter speed and ISO, you get the best of the old traditional SLR camera combined with the translucent mirror-digital technology.

              • Ease of Operation:
              • 9
              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Comment on this review

               
              5.0

              Great beginners camera with great featur

              By pow

              from Oslo, Norway

              About Me Casual Photographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Easy To Use
              • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
              • Good Image Quality
              • HD Movies
              • Large Clear LCD
              • Panoramic photos
              • Tilt /Swivel LCD

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Family Photos
                • Landscape/Scenery
                • Sports/Action
                • Travel

                Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

                So far haven't found anything I miss, but I'm also a beginner with SLRs.

                Great features:
                Panoramic photos
                HD movies

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                5.0

                Love it!!!!

                By littlebiddle

                from Yakima Washington

                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Use
                • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                • Fast Shutter Speed
                • Good Image Quality
                • Good Image Stabilization
                • Large Clear LCD
                • Tilt /Swivel LCD

                Cons

                • Short Battery Life
                • Small Camera Body

                Best Uses

                • Landscape/Scenery
                • Wildlife photos

                Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

                Bought it because all my lens from my previous Sony Alpha cameras fit! Went out on three photo excursions so far an love what I came back with. Still learning how to navigate the camera but not finding it to difficult.

                • Ease of Operation:
                • 9
                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                3.0

                great for what it is

                By nobody

                from bfe maryland

                About Me Pro Photographer

                Verified Reviewer

                Pros

                • Fast Shutter Speed
                • Good Image Quality
                • Good Image Stabilization
                • High ISO Performance
                • Large Clear LCD
                • Quiet
                • Tilt /Swivel LCD

                Cons

                • Badly needs new firmware
                • Can't use strobes

                Best Uses

                • Family Photos

                Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

                lighting problems. basically this camera doesn't work with strobes via wireless trigger. it's not a trigger problem. you can't see to focus. the view finder is dark. something with the electronic view finder. may need a firmware update or something.

                had to brake out my old everlights to get though the last set.

                decent camera though. nice images but the strobe thing limits it's use. love the video autofocus.

                is what it is.

                • Ease of Operation:
                • 3
                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                4.0

                I like it

                By Dmitry

                from Moscow. Russia

                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Use
                • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                • Good Image Quality
                • Good Image Stabilization
                • High ISO Performance
                • Large Clear LCD

                Cons

                • Short Battery Life

                Best Uses

                • Family Photos
                • Travel
                • Video
                • Wildlife photos

                Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

                Family use

                • Ease of Operation:
                • 10
                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                5.0

                Great camera

                By DocJ

                from houston, tx

                About Me Casual Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Use
                • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                • Good Image Quality

                Cons

                • A bit small for my hands

                Best Uses

                  Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

                  I wanted a camera that was fast enough to capture pictures of my son playing baseball and my daughter playing soccer that didn't cost a small fortune. This camera has allowed me to do just that. I'm not a pro by any means and this camera has made it easy to do. I don't use it for video so I haven't seen the overheating problem.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Comment on this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Great Camera For the Money

                  By Ylweyez

                  from Albany NY

                  About Me Casual Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                  • Fast Shutter Speed
                  • Good Image Quality
                  • Large Clear LCD
                  • Tilt /Swivel LCD

                  Cons

                  • Poor Image Stabilization
                  • Short Battery Life

                  Best Uses

                  • Family Photos
                  • Indoors/Low Light
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Travel

                  Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

                  Great camera. Easy to use, and I am just a beginner. It has everything I've been looking for in a camera.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Comment on this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Everything I hoped for!

                  By Geokeys

                  from Tempe, AZ

                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                  • Good Image Quality
                  • Good Image Stabilization
                  • High ISO Performance
                  • Large Clear LCD
                  • Tilt /Swivel LCD

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Family Photos
                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Sports/Action
                    • Travel
                    • Video
                    • Wildlife photos

                    Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens:

                    For those graduating from digital point and shoot, this camera will do great things right out of the box using the auto settings. But do not hesitate to learn how to use the other (aperture and shutter priority and manual)settings; your enjoyment of the A55 will really multiply! It will take a little time to master all the features of the A55, but it will be time well spent. I was a bit apprehensive about how the electronic viewfinder would compare to a TTL finder, but it is crystal clear, as is the beautiful swivel LCD display. The on camera flash does a great job rendering natural, accurate colors and does not wash out close subjects. This camera will be used mostly to capture animals and sporting events, and with 10 fps burst capability and HD video, the Alpha 55 has it covered.

                    • Ease of Operation:
                    • 8
                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Comment on this review

                    Displaying reviews 1-20

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                    Batteries & Power

                    Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.

                    Sony -  NP-FW50 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery (1080mAh)
                    • Price: $57.00
                     
                    Pearstone -  NP-FW50 Lithium-Ion Battery (975mAh)
                      • Original: $24.95
                      • Save: $2.49
                    • Price: $22.46
                     

                    Not compatible with NEX-C3, NEX-5N, NEX-7 & SLT-A35

                    Lenses

                    Get a wide-angle, zoom, or other effect for various photography applications.

                    Sony -  SAL-50F18 50mm f/1.8 DT AF Lens for Alpha & Minolta Digital SLRs
                    • Price: $168.00
                     

                    Not compatible with 35mm or "full-frame" digital SLR cameras

                    Filters

                    Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.

                    Tiffen -  55mm UV Protector Filter
                    • Price: $7.24
                     
                    General Brand -  55mm Circular Polarizer Glass Filter
                    • Price: $18.95
                     

                    Lens Hoods

                    Shade your lens from unwanted stray light.

                    Vello -  55mm Snap-on Tulip Lens Hood (Version II)
                      • Original: $17.50
                      • Save: $1.75
                    • Price: $15.75
                     

                    Flash & Accessories

                    Get a flash to add light to your picture.

                    Sony -  HVL-F43AM Compact External Flash
                    • Price: $348.00
                     
                    Vello -  TTL-Off-Camera Flash Cord for Sony Alpha Series - 3' (1 m)
                      • Original: $16.95
                      • Save: $1.69
                    • Price: $15.26
                     

                    Slings & Straps

                    Carry or wear your camera in comfort & style.

                    OP/TECH USA -  Classic Strap (Black)
                    • Price: $17.95
                     
                    View all Accessories
                    HDSLR Audio & Video Related Accessories

                    What's in the Box

                    Sony Alpha DSLR-SLT-A55 Digital Camera W/18-55mm Lens
                    • DSLR SLT-A55 Body
                    • SAL1855 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens
                    • Rechargable Battery (NP-FW50)
                    • Battery Charger (BC-VW1)
                    • Shoulder Strap
                    • Body Cap
                    • USB Cable
                    • CD-ROM
                    • 1-Year Parts and Labor Warranty
                    Included Free
                     
                     
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