Sony Alpha NEX-C3 Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Silver)
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Discontinued
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The Sony Alpha NEX-C3 Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens gives you the versatility of a larger SLR digital camera but in a compact, light weight form-factor. Perfect for traveling, parties, or any time you don't want to carry a bulky camera around your neck, the NEX-C3 is a styling piece with enticing lines and an understated, yet modern design. But it's not just appealing in the looks department, the NEX-C3 backs up that enticing style with an 16.2Mp sensor and a BIONZ image processor that enable RAW image capture and a 3.0" LCD screen with TruBlack technology.
Perhaps most notable though, is the NEX-C3's ability to interchange lenses. The camera comes with a 18-55mm zoom lens included to get you started shooting from day one with a lens that's ready for just about anything. The 18-55 is a versatile lens that can shoot in wide-angle to your standard 55mm, making it a great all purpose lens. However, any of the Sony E-mount or A-mount lenses will work with the NEX-C3, allowing you to stock up your lens arsenal for whatever the shoot calls for, knowing you'll able to able to capture it all without being weighed down by a heavy camera body.
Among the plethora of features and functions, Sony gave the NEX-C3 a 25-point auto focus to ensure that your images will be accurate and precise no matter what the situation. Other features designed to keep your images looking sharp include face detection, smile shutter, and image stabilization. While the camera provides manual options for shooting it also makes things super-simple for those times when you just want to snap away. The numerous auto scene modes can take all the guesswork out of shooting, turning the NEX-C3 into a point-and-shoot when that's what you want.
- One of the Smallest in Class
- This is the one of the world's smallest interchangeable lens digital still camera using an APS-C size sensor (as of June 2011). Sony removed the conventional mirror box, AF sensor and viewfinder, reducing the "flange back" distance from 44.5mm to 18mm. The result has all the quality of an Alpha DSLR, in about half the size and weight
- Interchangeable Lenses
- Compatible with Sony's E-mount series of smaller, lighter lenses designed specifically for Alpha compact interchangeable lens cameras. Opens up a world of creative options
- APS-C Size HD Image Sensor
- The same sensor format that Sony builds into the full-sized α DSLRs. With 13 times the area of the typical image sensor, APS-C makes the difference between "snapshots" and "photographs," delivering an exceptional combination of high resolution, high sensitivity and gorgeous, blurred backgrounds
- HD Movie Recording
- Capture vivid, lifelike HD movies in the PC-friendly MP4 format. Shoot 720/30p high definition or standard definition 480/30p
- 16.2Mp Resolution
- You get incredible detail and gorgeous enlargements. Thanks to the APS-C sensor size and Sony Exmor APS HD CMOS technology, the camera achieves high resolution with no penalty in low-light sensitivity or sensor noise
- Up to 5.5 Frames Per Second
- Capture the decisive moment in sports and get the ideal baby photo. Up to 5.5 fps continuous shooting at full 16.2Mp resolution with exposure and focus fixed at the first frame. Standard continuous shooting at up to 2.5 fps
- ISO 12800 Sensitivity
- Incredibly clear low-light pictures without sacrificing detail. This remarkable performance, is made possible by low-noise Exmor APS HD CMOS image sensor and refined BIONZ image processor
- 3D Sweep Panorama View
- 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 television. Records both JPEG and MPO file formats
- Sweep Panorama
- Capture expansive landscapes automatically. Press the shutter, sweep vertically or horizontally. The camera does the rest, continuously shooting images and stitching them together. Up to 23Mp image size. Up to 202 degrees maximum sweep angle (16mm focal length)
- Anti Motion Blur Mode
- Corrects for subject movement to capture amazingly clean and sharp images in low light. The camera leverages the large, APS-C image sensor and captures six images in a fraction of a second. Combining the data from all six creates a single image that minimizes subject blur
- Hand-Held Twilight Mode
- Get cleaner and sharper nighttime pictures-beyond the capability of traditional cameras-without using flash or a tripod. The camera leverages the large, APS-C image sensor and captures six images in a fraction of a second. Combining the data from all six creates a single image of extraordinary detail and low noise
- Auto HDR Built Into Camera
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography captures more scene contrast than a single exposure can handle by combining the best highlight detail from one shot and the best shadow detail from another for one incredible shot. Until recently, you needed a computer and editing software. Sony builds HDR in. Handles severe backlighting and other high-contrast scenes. Captures in a split second. (Recommended for still subjects)
- Live View LCD
- The LCD monitor is active full-time for composing shots. Provides 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
- Tiltable 3" LCD Screen
- Empowers your photography with a different point or view. Tilts down 45° and up 80° to frame high and low-angle shots that would otherwise be hit-or-miss
- Fast Auto Focus
- Some cameras in this class are slow to focus. That can make you miss the shot on fast-moving subjects like sports and unpredictable subjects like pets and babies. Sony's fast Contrast Auto Focus system typically takes just 0.3 seconds. Also offers continuous Auto Focus when shooting movies
- Intelligent Auto Focus
- Pre-focuses as you compose teh shot, further reducing focusing time to a bare minimum
- 921K Pixel TruBlack LCD Screen
- The TruBlack screen includes a special resin layer to suppress internal reflections, increase contrast compared to conventional LCDs. Sunny Weather mode boosts visibility even further in bright sunlight
- On-Screen Shooting Tips
- Offers advice so you can shoot like a pro
- iAuto (Intelligent Auto) Mode
- Unifies and simplifies Sony intelligent technologies. Takes advantage of Intelligent Scene Recognition, Face Detection technology, and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization without leaving auto mode so you always get the best shot
- On-Screen Help Guide
- Provides ready reference, explains the camera's modes and settings. Walks you through camera operation so you get the best shot. Helps you advance from basic operation to greater sophistication
- BIONZ Image Processor
- The brain 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 fast processing for up to 5.5 fps continuous shooting of data-intensive 16.2Mp images, 2D/3D Sweep Panorama and 6 image layering
- Control Wheel + Customizable Soft Keys
- Unlike cameras that bristle with knobs, buttons and dials, the NEX-C3 features a simple turn-and-click Control Wheel and context-sensitive Soft Keys. It's elegant, uncluttered and intuitive
- Sony Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor
- Conventional image sensors use only a handful of analog-to-digital (A/D) converters, which can slow you down. The NEX-C3 Exmor sensor provides 4,912 column-parallel A/D converters. You get fast response, superb image clarity
- 25-Point Auto Focus
- 25 sensors cover a very wide area of the scene, for accurate focusing even when the subject is far from the center of the frame
- Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO)
- 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
- Accepts Alpha DSLR A-mount Lenses
- Using the LA-EA1 adaptor (sold separately), you can attach the full selection of Alpha A-mount system lenses, which includes 34 current models and an installed base of millions of lenses worldwide (operational restrictions apply)
- Peaking for Precise Focus
- The Peaking function makes precise manual focusing much easier by highlighting the edges that are in focus in your choice of three colors ( white, red, or yellow). This is especially helpful during macro or portrait photography where your focal plane can make or break your shot
- Multi-Segment Metering
- Optimizes exposure based on 49 segments. Choice of Multi, Center, and Spot metering accommodates a full range of shooting situations
- Manual Focus Assist
- Greatly magnifies the viewfinder image when you touch the focus ring, making it easy to get razor-sharp images. Works with E-mount lenses only
- Accepts Image Stabilized Lenses
- Selected E-mount lenses incorporate Optical SteadyShot image stabilization to combat the effects of camera shake. Building stabilization into the lenses enables the camera body to be remarkably thin and light
- RAW Image Capture
- The NEX-C3 saves your pictures as compact JPEG files or ultra-high quality RAW files. 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
- "Background Defocus" Control
- Cameras with APS-C sensors take beautiful pictures because they can blur the background. That helps make your subject stand out as the center of attention in portrait photography. But you've had to know about aperture f-stops and shutter speeds. Now Sony makes it easy. Simply turn the Control Wheel one way for backgrounds in focus, the other for background defocus
- 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
- Powerful Supplied Software
- To help you refine and manage your images, the camera is equipped with computer software including Image Data Converter SR, Image Data Lightbox SR and Picture Motion Browser (PMB)
- 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, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset and B/W. You can even fine-tune contrast, saturation, and sharpness to your personal taste
- 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 remote
- Eight Scene Selection Modes
- These help you get the shot by optimizing the camera for specific shooting situations. Select from Portrait, Sports, Macro, Landscape, Sunset, Night View, Night Portrait and Hand-held Night Shot modes
- P/A/S/M Operating Modes
- The NEX-C3 offers a full range of controls from the beginner's iAUTO 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
- Photo Creativity Interface
- The Photo Creativity interface enables you to easily enjoy the creative expression of SLR-quality digital imaging. Changes can be combined / removed and viewed in real time on the LCD making it a breeze to make adjustments. Choose from seven different Photo Creativity functions using the convenient control wheel and center button: Picture Effect, Background Defocus Control, Soft Skin Effect, Color, Brightness, Vividness, and Self-timer / Continuous Advance
- Picture Effect Mode
- There are 7 types (11 variations) of picture effects to choose from: Posterization (Color), Posterization (B/W), Pop Color, Retro Photo, Partial Color(R), Partial Color(G), Partial Color(B), Partial Color(Y), High-key, High Contrast Monochrome, Toy Camera. Each is unique and each give you a new and exciting way to make your images and videos pop
- Supplied Detachable Flash
- to help you shoot more effectively in formal portraits, the supplied flash has a Guide Number of 7
- 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
- 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
- Up to 400 Shots of Battery Life
- Take up to 400 shots on a single charge with Sony lithium ion Stamina battery power. Sony's InfoLITHIUM battery system enables you to see the percent of power remaining, so you can keep shooting in confidence
- PhotoTV HD Compatibility
- Optimizes compatible BRAVIA televisions for gorgeous display of digital pictures
- Dual Format Media Card Slot
- 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 media (Class 4 or higher recommended. Memory card is required. All are sold separately)
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Sony E Mount |
| Camera Format | APS-C (1.5x Crop Factor) |
| Resolution |
Effective Pixels: 16.2 Megapixels Max Resolution: 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 HG-Duo Memory Stick Pro Duo SD SDHC SDXC |
| AV Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC |
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3, 16:9 |
| Audio Recording | With Video, Stereo |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Auto & Manual |
| Focus Mode | Single-servo AF (S), Continuous-servo AF (C), Manual Focus (M) |
| Autofocus Points | 25 |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Screen | 3" Rear Screen Tilting LCD (921600) |
| Screen Coverage | 100% |
| Live View | Yes |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | 200-12800 |
| Shutter |
Type: Electronic Speed: 30 - 1/4000 sec |
| Metering Method | Spot metering, Center-weighted average metering, Multi-zone metering |
| Exposure Modes |
Modes: Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Shutter Priority Compensation: -2 EV to +2 EV (in 0.33 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Incandescent, Kelvin, Shade, Preset Manual |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Max Sync Speed | 1 / 160 sec |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 10 fps |
| External Flash Connection | Proprietary |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Self Timer | 2 sec, 10 sec |
| Connectivity | AV Output, HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 |
| Software Requirements |
Windows: XP (SP3), Vista (SP2), 7 Mac: OS X 10.3 or later |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | 1x NP-FW50 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.31 x 2.36 x 1.30" / 10.96 x 6.0 x 3.30 cm |
| Weight | 7.9 oz / 224 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 - 32 |
| Angle of View | 76° - 29° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 9.84" (24.99 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.3x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:3.3 |
| Groups/Elements | 9/11 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Filter Thread | Front: 49 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.44 x 2.36" (6.20 x 5.99 cm) |
| Weight | 6.84 oz (194 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 5 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (5)
- Large clear LCD (5)
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (4)
- Good image quality (4)
- Image stabilization (3)
Cons
- No viewfinder (3)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (4)
- Travel (4)
- Family photos (3)
- Wildlife (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (5)
Reviewed by 5 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-5
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha NEX-C3 Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Silver):
I have a Nikon D300 and wanted something lighter weight and after much research I went with this camera. I love it now can carry it in my purse so whenever I see a photo I can take it immediately.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Sony Alpha NEX-C3 Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Silver):
I Have Not Used This Camera Very Much Yet, What Photos I Have Taken Are Very Good, Sharp, Accurate Colors, Well Made Body,I Wish Sony Would Include A Better Made Strap And A Viewfinder, But For That Sony Has The nex7.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
- Noisy At High ISO
- No Viewfinder
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony Alpha NEX-C3 Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Silver):
I use the Sony NEX-C3 as a 'second camera' to my high-end Canon DSLR equipment. I use the 18-55mm lens but I ordered the Sony 18-200mm lens and should get it soon.
The image quality is excellent. I have yet to get the kind of high ISO performance I read about in reviews but that could be partly operator error... but I do think this could be somewhat exaggerated. I've been producing good quality, reasonably low noise images at 1600 ISO. 3200 IS and 6400 ISO were unacceptable to me.
The panoramaic fucntion is fantastic and the in-camera stitching software is outstanding. I love this feature!
It's nice to have external, physical buttons to adjust a camera but I've found the menuing system is just fine. It's intuitive and easy to learn and then it gets very easy to use in practice. Some reviews have critisized this design feature and I do not find it a problem in reality.
The 'fit and finish' is excellent and I'm used to expensive, high-quality equipment. The Sony fits in just fine and I do not get the feeling that it's somehow all plastic and cheap. It's not. Great feeling of quality to the body and the one lens I have today.
In terms of negative aspects of the camera, I was disappointed in the high ISO performance... I've gotten use to no view-finder through a series of compact cameras I've owned and I can deal with it. Still an view-finder would be great but unrealistic with the size and design of the Sony.
Like any compact camera in this price range, I wish it had a higher fps rate. It's shots slowly compared to high-end DSLR's. Obviously, for around $550.00, this camera performs extremely well. Wonderful image quality, great fit and finish, easy to operate, and a size that allows you to carry it concealed or in a small bag hung over your shoulder.
Personally, I think this mirror-less design used by Sony in the NEX-C3 is a ground breaking camera, kinda like the Canon 5D Mark 2. My guess is that Sony is gonna sell millions of these cameras!
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- 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
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Sony Alpha NEX-C3 Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Silver):
We are using the camera to video our horses we have offered for sale and then post the video on our website. We also will be using it to video our cowboy church services each week to post that on the website. Really like the 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
- 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 NEX-C3 Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Silver):
I purchased this camera as a reeplacement to my point and shoot, and as a supplement to my traditional film SLR, and really, I don't even use my SLR now. This camera's quality is much better than expected. My girlfriend, with no photography experience at all, loves all of the creative photo options in the intelligent auto mode ( showing only certain colors, retro looks, background defocus, etc etc etc). I did buy an adapter to use a few of my old school nikon lenses with it and the pictures come out amazing.
Hands down my favorite camera ever. It's portable when I want to to be, and powerful when I need it to be.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-5
Memory Cards
Required item: Memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $13.95
Lenses
Get a wide-angle, zoom, or other effect for various photography applications.
- Price: $278.00
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $57.00
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.
- Price: $7.09
- Price: $27.95
Flash & Accessories
Get a flash to add light to your picture.
- Price: $148.00
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $17.95
Slings & Straps
Carry or wear your camera in comfort & style.
- Price: $19.95
What's in the Box
- E-Mount SEL 1855 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens for Alpha NEX Cameras (Silver)
- NP-FW50 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery (1080mAh)
- Alpha AC Charger for W Series Battery
- HVL-F7S Flash
- Mini B USB Cable
- Power Cord
- Lens Cap
- Shoulder Strap
- Software CD
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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