Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens
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Remember the Essentials
A memory card is not included with the camera.
Get a high-capacity memory card so you don't get caught without memory.
Sony's Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens is no shrinking violet of a camera: it stakes its claim as a first-rate DSLR right up front, with a large 16.2MP APS-C size CMOS sensor for superb resolution, a terrific 18-55mm 3x zoom lens, fast Live View auto focus, 15-point auto focus sensor, SteadyShot image stabilization, Sony BIONZ image processor, up to 7 fps shooting speed, sensitivity up to 12800 ISO, advanced anti-dust technology, and a high-resolution 3" tiltable LCD screen with 961,000 dots.
Full HD 1920 x 1080/30p video is at your fingertips, as are 8 scene modes (Portrait, Sports Action, Macro, Landscape, Sunset, Night View, Night Portrait and Hand-held Twilight) and 6 creative style settings (Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset and B&W). A multi-frame NR (Noise Reduction) mode captures 6 frames in a split second under low light conditions, combines the best data from all 6 and produces a beautiful photo with a reduction in noise equivalent to two additional steps of ISO sensitivity. An HDR function handles wide dynamic range scenes by combining 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--automatically! A Sweep Panorama mode, a Smile Shutter function and a built-in flash all sweeten the deal--a terrific affordable DSLR that you won't outgrow any time soon.
- 16.2MP; Amazing Pictures
- You get incredible detail and gorgeous enlargements. Thanks to the APS-C sensor size and Sony's Exmor APS HD CMOS technology, the camera achieves high resolution with no penalty in low-light sensitivity or sensor noise.
- Quick Auto Focus Live View
- The DSLR-A580 is just as responsive in Quick Auto Focus Live View mode as in optical viewfinder mode. That's because the A580 uses the same "phase detection" auto focus for Live View as for the optical viewfinder. While other Live View systems are severely restricted, Sony's performs superbly any time-even if you're shooting handheld or chasing after moving subjects like kids or pets.
- APS-C Size HD CMOS Image Sensor
- With 19.5 times the area of the typical camcorder8 image sensor, APS-C makes the difference between amateur and professional-looking video. The DSLR-A580 delivers an exceptional combination of high resolution capture, high sensitivity performance, and gorgeous, defocused backgrounds.
- Multi-Frame NR for Low-Light Excellence
- 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.)
- 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.
- 7 FPS Continuous Shooting
- Up to 7 frames per second in Speed Priority mode can capture the decisive moment in sports or get the ideal baby photo. You can also shoot at up to 3 fps with Quick Auto Focus Live View.
- Auto HDR Built In
- 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.)
- Face Detection Technology
- The A580 enhances Quick AF Live View shooting with Face Detection technology, which helps you get the best shot by recognizing faces and applying the proper focus, exposure and white balance.
- Full HD 1080/60i Movies
- The DSLR-A580 captures Full HD video at 1920x1080/30p and records in 1920x1080/60i and is one of the very few DSLRs with exactly the same resolution and frame rate as most broadcast and cable HDTV channels. You also have the option of recording HD video in 720p in web friendly MP4 format.
- Tiltable 3.0" LCD
- Even if you're completely comfortable with the optical viewfinder, Sony's tiltable LCD empowers your photography with a different point of view. Helps you frame high and low-angle shots that would otherwise be hit or miss. The LCD tilts up or down 90 degrees to capture a child's first steps or shoot over a crowd.
- More Responsive Live View
- Some Live View systems take a painfully long time to focus. Some even black out the LCD before focus. Either can cause you to miss shots. Sony's Quick Auto Focus Live View solves these problems, making it easier to get the best shot.
- 15-Point Auto Focus Sensor
- To get the best shot under a wide range of situations, the A580L uses 11 AF points with four assist points make for flexible shot composition. Three cross sensors maximize precision.
- Hand-Held Twilight Photos
- 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.
- ISO 12800 Sensitivity
- Sony's Exmor CMOS image sensor employs new low-noise processing, for uncommonly clear pictures. The BIONZ image processor with chroma noise reduction helps achieve low noise all the way up to ISO 12800, without sacrificing resolution.
- 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.
- SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization
- Image stabilization helps you take blur-free shots by compensating for camera shake. Typical DSLR systems build image stabilization into selected lenses only. SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization is built into the camera body itself. You'll reduce blur with every a-mount lens, including macro and wide-aperture standard zoom lenses.
- Smart Teleconverter 2x Digital Zoom
- In Quick Auto Focus Live View mode, you can extend the optical zoom of your lens with digital zoom. One touch zooms in at 1.4x, while a second touch advances to 2x zoom. The system reproduces pixels on a 1:1 basis so there's no degradation in picture quality.
- 921K Dot Xtra Fine LCD Screen
- Sony's Xtra Fine LCD monitor has 921K dots for superb resolution. The Anti Reflection (AR) coating increases visibility in direct sunlight.
- 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.
- BIONZ Image Processor
- The newest version of Sony's BIONZ image processor uses chroma noise reduction to deliver high-resolution, low-noise photos even at ISO 12800 sensitivity. This powerful Sony Large Scale Integrated circuit (LSI) also delivers fast processing for quick response on data-intensive 14.2 megapixel images.
- Dynamic Range Optimizer
- Improves results with backlit subjects and recovers details hidden in shadows. Settings include Auto, Level with a choice of five operating levels and Off.
- Up to 5 FPS Continuous Shooting
- Up to 5 fps with continuous Auto Focus and Auto Exposure (optical viewfinder mode). Up to 3 fps continuous shooting (Quick AF Live View mode).
- Eight Scene Selection Modes
- To help you get the shot, Scene Selection Modes optimize the camera settings for common shooting situations. Just turn the Mode Dial to select from Portrait, Sports Action, Macro, Landscape, Sunset, Night View, Night Portrait and Hand-held Twilight modes.
- Six Creative Style Settings
- Control how the camera processes your images with six finishing styles: Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset and B&W. You can even fine-tune contrast, saturation, and sharpness to your personal taste.
- Smile Shutter technology
- Another Quick AF Live View enhancement, Smile Shutter technology automatically takes the shot when your subject smiles. Works with Quick Auto Focus Live View to capture spontaneous moments, making the difference between a missed shot and a cherished memory.
- HDMI Output for HD Viewing
- Connect your camera to a compatible HDTV and play back your images in stunning high definition. The A580L includes an HDMI output (HDMI cable required, sold separately). In addition, the BRAVIA Sync system works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs to let you control camera playback using the television's remote.
- 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 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).
- Anti-Dust Technology
- Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the CMOS imager clean, resulting in consistently better pictures. First a static-free coating on the sensor's low-pass filter helps repel dust. Then vibration automatically dislodges dust from the sensor each time you shut off the camera.
- Up to 1050 Shots of Battery Life
- Take up to 1050 shots on a single charge (optical viewfinder mode); up to 560 shots (Live View mode) with Sony Stamina battery power. Sony's InfoLITHIUM battery system enables you to see the percent of power remaining, so you can keep shooting in confidence.
- Eye-Start Autofocus
- For maximum speed, Eye-Start Autofocus begins focusing as soon as you raise the camera to your eye. So the camera is ready to catch the perfect moment.
- 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). (Media sold separately.)
- P/A/S/M Eposure 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.
- Index and Slide Show Display
- Quickly review your photos using 4- or 9-frame index views, or as an automatic slide show with fade-in/fade-out effect.
- 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.
- Remote Capability
- Works with the RMT-DSLR1 Remote Commander wireless remote control, sold separately.
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Camera Type | Digital SLR with Interchangeable lenses |
| Lens Mount | Sony E Mount |
| Camera Format | APS-C / (1.5x Crop Factor) |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MPEG-4 AVCHD |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC Memory Stick PRO HG-Duo Memory Stick Pro Duo |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| AV Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes |
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3, 16:9 |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Auto |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | Pentamirror |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 95% |
| Display Screen | 3" Rear Screen LCD (921600) |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | 100-25600 |
| Shutter | 30 - 1/4000 sec |
| Remote Control | RMT-DSLR1 (Optional) |
| Metering Method | Spot metering, Center-weighted average metering, Multi-zone metering |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Incandescent, Kelvin, Manual, Shade |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes: Flash On |
| Max Sync Speed | 1 / 160 sec |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 7 fps |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Self Timer | 2 sec, 10 sec |
| Connectivity | AV Output, HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | 1x NP-FM500H Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 5.5 x 4.2 x 3.9" / 13.97 x 10.67 x 9.91 cm |
| Weight | 1.5 lb / 680 g |
| 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 | 0.82' (24.99 cm) |
| Autofocus | Yes |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 30 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Good image quality (18)
- Image stabilization (15)
- Easy to use (14)
- Fast shutter speed (13)
- High ISO performance (13)
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (16)
- Travel (16)
- Family photos (13)
- Wildlife (13)
- Low light (12)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (14)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (18)
Reviewed by 30 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
- Doesn't fit my hands well
- LCD sticks out
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
After two weeks I'm still figuring out all the functions of the camera, but it is easy enough to get started without looking at the instruction manual. The camera doesn't fit my hand well. When I can afford it I'll get the extra grip and that should help. I have to search the instructions and see if there is a way to manually change which AF sensors are selected. Right now it seems all automated.
I wouldn't recommend the 18-55 lens to a friend. The lens is rather soft, but it is the construction that is poor. The zoom does not operate smoothly and has a plastic mount. But I should not have expected anymore from such a cheep lens. As soon as I can I'll replace it.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
excellent image quality, very user friendly
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Noisy At High ISO
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
I took over 1000 photos in just one day.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
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
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
This is an excellent camera body. The included lens in poor, however if you upgrade to a Zeiss ZA lens, image quality is superb. I owned a Canon 5D and 7D and the image quality with this camera body and zeiss lens is better than the 7D but on par with the 5D.
Not a bad deal for the price, about half of what the 7D costs.
The camera grip makes squeaking/cracking noises, but that is because it isn't magnesium alloy just plastic and plus I have a heavy lens on the thing.
Auto focus with live view is superb.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- 1080p video
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Long battery life
- Many useful program modes
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
- No continuous movie AF
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
I did a lot of research and ended up choosing the a580 over the a55. The a580 is basically the same as the a55 but with a standard DSLR mirror system vs the a55's new translucent mirror. I stuck with the more traditional system. To me image quality is much more important than continuous AF in video. Also, I like the option of a real optical viewfinder. The a55 has a viewfinder, but it's digital. The a580 beats almost every camera in it's class in dynamic range, image quality, high ISO performance, battery life, etc (according to Snap Sort). It stacks up almost exactly with the Nikon D5100 (minus video AF).
The image quality on the a580 is impressive for a camera in this range. But what really put the a580 over the top for me was its program modes. Usually I think of pre-programmed scene modes as gimmicks. The a580 is the first camera I have used where they can be usefully employed to get great shots that were more difficult before. In-camera HDR is great for shots with both bright and dark areas. High ISO noise reduction and handheld twilight modes make use of the camera's fast shooting speed to help out in adverse lighting conditions. They both work by snapping several (I think 6) shots in quick succession. It then stitches them together to create one image with reduced noise (high ISO mode) or to get the sharpest parts of each (twilight mode). In my usage they have worked just as advertised, getting very usable handheld shots even in horrible lighting conditions. I love having this for times when the lighting is bad and I don't have the time or resources to do anything about it. Many times for me it has often been the difference between getting the shot or not. There are other modes that drift a bit more to the gimmick side of the tracks. Like sunset mode, night snapshop, etc. The panorama mode takes a little practice but it's fun to play around with.
Overall I am very impressed with the a580. Its list of good features makes it a great value proposition for the price.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
This is a replacement for my Sony Alpha A100 camera, the original digital SLR offering from Sony. While I love that camera, it had some drawbacks that I wanted to resolve with this new one.
Enter the A580... This is light-years ahead of the A100. Well, maybe not quite that far, but its a giant leap forward.
Key features for me... Full-time active display. Tilting up or down of the screen. 16.2 MegaPixels. Rapid-fire photos. Video. EXCELLENT on-screen prompts. Excellent screen resolution. Very sophisticated operating system. Wow!
I had originally thought I'd like the A55 with the translucent mirror. But, I tried one and it felt too small in my hands. The A580 is more like the A100 in size, but a bit lighter. And, I read that the battery life on the A55 was quite short. So, that iced it for me. The A580 was the right choice for me.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Inbody imagestabilization
Cons
- MultiFrame shooting Noisy
- No AF fine-tuning
- No audio levels control
Best Uses
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
The Sony A580 has impressive image quality
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
Cons
- Limited Zoom function
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
This camera is packed with features for a wide range of functions and easy to operate.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
This camera has been very useful for me. I have used almost every day since I bought. Although not professional photographer and not having done any photography course, I adapted well and now I use all the features of the camera. I'm totally in love with the photos I took with it.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
After reviewing Canon T3i, Sony SLT A55 and some other Nikon models, I decided to go with Sony A580. I use this camera for landscapes and wild life. I am still learning some features. Really stunned by picture quality with great color depth. Found something what I was looking for and pleased with this purchase for that price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
If you're not married to an existing lens collection, this Sony stacks right up there with the more expensive competition from Nikon (D7000) and Pentax (K-5). Build quality is a little poorer and you may miss some more advanced features from the other names... you just need to decide whether those options are worth the extra price!
Even with kit lenses this camera is capable of gorgeous pictures.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
After thinking about buying something other then a Canon or Nikon (crazy) and finally taking the plunge, I have to say the Sony A580 is awesome. The lens supplied is ordinary (to put it nicely) so its worth investing in a decent lens. I purchased SAL-18250 DT and the quality is much better! I'm very happy with my purchase overall!! The best part of owning it though, is showing other enthusiasts all its neat tricks and features... it surprises a lot of people, because like most, we rarely stray from the 2 big players and try other things.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- A bit on the heavy side
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
I primarily use this camera for landscapes and wild life. So far, I am extremely pleased with the results. While I am no expert, this is not a camera for a neophyte. I am still learning to use all of the features included. The images are very crisp and detailed. I would buy it again if I needed another camera.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in low light
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
- Do not heavy to carry
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Good for indoors and out
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
I would like to recommmend this porduct to other friends that it works wonderful, don't you think its you can shoot 7 frames per second, full HD movie and auto HDR, and also has steady shot so you don't have worry about Discs recorded with HD image quality because it also has (high definition). It can shoot panoramic images and changing the brightness of the picture by the amount of exposure. Shooting a moving subject of at a moment in time. Use a faster shutter speed to crisply shoot an instant of the movement, and many more,
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
Cons
- Small LCD Screen
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
This is an upgrade from A100 to A580
It's amazing! The quality of the image is great, super high definition and I fell that it is a great investment. It's super recomended in my opinion.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
Clear LCD
Good image quality
Good ISO performance
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
I debated between the a580 and the a55 before settling on the a580. I was nervous about the new translucent platform on the a55 and felt like the a580 would already have most design quirks worked out from its predecessors.I have owned the a580 for 3 weeks now and have enjoyed it on a trip to Philadelphia and Valley Forge, as well as shooting around the wetlands near my home, as well as at school events in an auditorium/gymnasium. I am most impressed by the image quality at high ISO settings; I rarely shoot at less than ISO 800 now because it just performs great at either 800 or 1600. At 3200 I begin to see artifacts, but not enough for me to worry about unless I am enlarging above a 5x7.There are now many technical reviews of this camera available (one of the more comprehensive is on alphamountworld[@]). Suffice it to say I think it's a great deal for a camera that I believe outperforms the Nikon D90 and the Cannon 2Ti, which I consider its closest competitors (though there are newer Nikon models with this same sensor). I would pick the Sony for its build quality, thoughtful control layout, and built-in image stabilization. The sensor can't be beat at this price range, and the LCD is just beautiful.I like the easy switch from optical viewfinder to live view; there are situations better suited to either one.On the downside, I wish Sony would implement the full 180-degree swiveling of the LCD on this camera, where you can rotate the LCD towards the inside of the camera for safe storage; but I realize most DSLR shooters will simply get a protective cover for the LCD anyway so not a big deal.I bought the camera with the kit lens because I couldn't find it in stock body-only through December and January; but it is available body only now it seems. I am using a Tamron 18-200mm and a Tamron 70-300mm lens in addition to the kit Sony lens (18-55).
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Large Clear LCD
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
I had been using the a100 for years and had been very happy with it. After watching the new Sony models that followed, I felt the a580 was very similar to it, and offered new features that I wanted for product photography. What I love--the grid display option during live view, the x7 and x14 focusing magnification, and the 2 second mirror lockup. Everything performs as you would hope, fast focus, great live view, and tons of extra features. I shoot mostly in manual, so haven't used many of those. I don't feel there is much negative about the camera besides the messing with buttons that occasionally accompanies using a digital camera. I love this camera and recommend it highly for both the casual photographer and those looking for a bit more manual use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
Upgraded from my Sony Alpha 350, and this was a great improvement. Up to 7 shots pr second as well as video. Sharp pictures.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 Digital SLR W/18-55mm Lens:
Wow - it does so much, but buy extra memory cards they go quickly in video mode....
Great camera - upgradde from my old one, now I need the dual battery setup. The LCD does eat the battery, but the preview mode rocks - and tilts any which way - the picture quality is impressive - once I get the details of the million and one shooting options down, I won't even need photshoop...
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- User Manual (PDF 10.9mb)
Memory Cards
Required item: Memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $13.95
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $47.94
-
- Original: $24.95
- Save: $2.49
- Price: $22.46
Lenses
Get a wide-angle, zoom, or other effect for various photography applications.
- Price: $168.00
Not compatible with 35mm or "full-frame" digital SLR cameras
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.
- Price: $7.24
- Price: $18.95
Lens Hoods
Shade your lens from unwanted stray light.
- Price: $12.95
Flash & Accessories
Get a flash to add light to your picture.
- Price: $348.00
-
- Original: $16.95
- Save: $1.69
- Price: $15.26
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $27.99
Slings & Straps
Carry or wear your camera in comfort & style.
- Price: $17.95
Tripod & Support
Produce higher quality photos with the support and stability you need.
- Price: $176.95
- Instant Savings: -$30.00 Offer ends JUN 30 '12
- You Pay: $146.95
Color Balancing
Balance the colors in your image with a color balancing lens or filter.
- Price: $89.95
What's in the Box
- SAL-1855 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Zoom Lens for Alpha & Minolta Digital SLRs
- Rechargable Battery (NP-FM500H)
- Battery Charger (BC-VM10)
- Body Cap
- Shoulder Strap
- USB Cable
- CD-ROM
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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