The Sony Alpha 57 D/SLR, A Whole Lot Of Camera...

Sony’s entry in the mid range D/SLR competition has recently been updated, the Sony Alpha 57 is that new model. Representing incredible value the a57 is also the latest member of Sony’s translucent mirror D/SLR family.

The a57 is Sony’s replacement for the mid-range a55 D/SLR, using the larger body styling of its higher end brother, the a65, along with updated sensor, chipset and software the a57 is a whole lot of camera at the bargain price of $699 USD.

The technology behind the A-Mount lens includes the 16Mpix Exmor APS HD CMOS, translucent mirror and Sony’s latest Bionz image processor. Sony’s magic mirror gives the a57 the ability to shoot film or pictures with the auto focus and live view both permanently engaged.

The translucent mirror is able to shine light on both the CCD and the AF sensor simultaneously, allowing the action to never waver.

highpants-Sony-A57-Side-Body-side — Sony alpha 57 DSLR

The translucent mirror technology also allows a57 to include a fully digital eye-peice or Tru-Finder. The Tru-Finder includes 100% image coverage, real-time uninterrupted display as well as a digit spirit level to line everything up square and a dual axis white balance control.

The GPS geotaging present in previous models has been removed, while in general the camera’s software functions have improved. Auto Portrait Framing ensures portrait photos are framed correctly, other highlights include multi-shot modes such as Sweep Panorama, Handheld Twilight or Auto HDR There are in total 11 effect types and 15 variations at your disposal for on the go effects.

A stunning 12fps burst shooting mode is available, although Sony uses some clever software tricks to achieve the 12fps number. Full frame, full ISO burst mode is limited to 8fps. Still a very impressive speed.

HD Movie recording formats include 1080/60p 60i, 24p and 25p resolutions. The a57 excels at video, with real-time auto-focus and enhanced object tracking fast action is handled with aplomb. Playback and reviewing is handled by the a57’s hires rear LCD – 921k –, with enough joints to keep an octopus happy allowing it to twist and move to face any angle.

From Sony’s press release: Limitless creative options are made even more accessible with a brand-new addition to the range of cameras by Sony employing Translucent Mirror Technology. This innovative design directs incoming light to the CMOS image sensor and the AF sensor at the same time, allowing full-time continuous AF during both still and video shooting. Framing, focusing and real-time preview can be achieved on the high-resolution Tru-Finder™ that offers a wide viewing angle and 100% field of view. This allows photographers to capture exactly what they see on the screen.

Only pricing for North America has been made available so far, $699 USD – body only – or at $799 USD with a 18-55mm

An amazingly capable camera that is the perfect entry into the D/SLR world. With enough technology to keep everyone from entry level to semi-pro snapping away , the a57 is possibly the bargain of the year in a crowded camera market.

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