Sony Alpha 100 User Manual

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Sony Consumer Products Group, Registered Head Office: Sony United Kingdom Limited, The Heights, Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0XW. Company No. 2422874. Registered in England.
The “ ” symbol is pronounced “Alpha”
‘Sony’, ‘like.no.other’, the logo, Bionz, Super SteadyShot, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick Duo and their logos are trademarks of Sony Corporation, Japan. All other trademarks are acknowledged. Whilst the information is true at the point of production, small production changes in the course of the Company's policy of improvement through research and design might not necessarily be indicated in the specification. Subject to errors, design and technical changes.
Dynamic Range Optimiser Advanced mode uses technology provided by Apical Ltd.
Microsoft®, MS, and Windows®are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and / or other countries. Windows 2000 Professional is an abbreviation for Microsoft®Windows® 2000 Professional operating system. WindowsXP Home Edition / Professional is an abbreviation for Microsoft®Windows®XP Home Edition / Professional.
Apple, the Apple logo, Macintosh, iBook, iMac, eMac, iPod, PowerBook, and MacBook are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. Additional company and product names may be trademarks or registered trademarks and are hereby acknowledged.
Digital SLR Camera
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It’s a brand new name. And it’s a brand new spirit in photography.
is about inspiration. It’s about exploration and discovery. And it’s about the power of imagination.
Whether you’re serious about taking better pictures – or just serious about having fun with photography – takes you to the next level.
Welcome to
100 Features
Super SteadyShot inside camera body reduces camera shake with all lenses.
The 100 features an innovative image stabilisation system that shifts
the CCD sensor to compensate for camera shake to deliver crisp, blur-free images with all compatible
system lenses.
10 Megapixel CCD and BIONZ image processing engine produce superb quality images.
The combination of a newly­developed 10.2 effective Megapixel CCD sensor and BIONZ image processing engine ensures extremely detailed, lifelike high resolution images right up to A3 print size.
2.5" 230K pixel Clear Photo LCD Plus screen displays beautiful, high-resolution pictures.
The large 2.5" (230,000 pixel) Clear Photo LCD Plus screen displays shots with stunning authenticity and detailing. The anti-reflection coating and Clear Processing assure beautiful images that are easy to view… even outdoors or in bright ambient lighting conditions.
Wide line-up of interchangeable lenses.
There’s an extensive choice of high-quality lenses – from ultra wide angle to super telephoto – to get the very best out of the extraordinary imaging capabilities of the 100. The full range includes Carl Zeiss and Sony G lenses that have been designed to deliver the ultimate in imaging performance with outstanding clarity, geometric accuracy and colour reproduction.
High-speed response with built-in Eye-Start AF feature ensure stress-free shooting.
The powerful BIONZ image processing engine allows you to capture high-quality images quickly, allowing high-speed continuous shooting at up to three frames per second in JPEG fine mode – limited only by your memory card’s capacity. In addition, the camera’s innovative Eye-Start AF system brings images into crisp, clear focus the moment you lift the viewfinder to your eye.
CCD sensor coating and anti-dust vibration system for clear, dust-free images.
The 100 represents a significant advance in addressing the challenge of keeping the inside of the camera body dust-free when lenses are interchanged. Combined with an anti-static coating on the CCD sensor, the anti-dust vibration system dislodges dust particles from the sensor when the camera is turned off.
Up to 750 shots from a single battery charge.
The high capacity rechargeable lithium ion battery allows you to focus on shooting without worrying about running low on power. Coupled with the camera’s highly energy-efficient design, a single charge of the battery allows up to 750 shots (CIPA measurement).
Conceived and created by Sony, is a synthesis of the most advanced digital technology, precision optics and innovative design. The result? A new family of Digital SLR cameras, lenses and accessories that’s quite simply like no other.
The way we see it, if you have a camera and you take photographs, you’re already a photographer. With we just want you to be an even better one.
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LCD screen provides shooting information
Easy-to-view navigation display.
Navigation Display shows camera settings. Switch between detailed display and zoom screens by pressing Display button. If the camera is held vertically, the screen will automatically switch to vertical display orientation.
LCD screen
Clear Photo LCD Plus technology for accurate reviewing.
Switch between Single Frame replay and Index screens during playback by pressing the Display button. A histogram can be viewed during single frame replay. Single Frame images can be enlarged or rotated during replay.
Viewfinder information display
Verify shooting information with the camera held to your eye.
The wide Autofocus area covers the scene with nine separate local focus points, allowing you to achieve a wide range of different compositional effects. You can also select a single focus area if preferred.
Controls and main functions
Eye sensor see page 13
Infra-red sensor detects when the camera has been placed to the photographer’s eye to look through the viewfinder. Looking through the viewfinder activates the Eye-Start AF system that instantaneously brings subjects into clear focus.
CCD see page 8
10.2 Megapixel CCD sensor with RGB primary colour filter. Anti-static sensor coating reduces build-up of dust particles in conjunction with CCD vibration feature when camera is switched off.
Super SteadyShot switch see page 6
Activates Super SteadyShot image stabiliser system inside camera body to reduce camera shake during handheld shooting.
CF card cover see page 20
The 100 accepts Compact Flash Type I and II (including MicroDrive) media. With the supplied adaptor it can also be used with Memory Stick Duo / Memory Stick PRO Duo media.
Viewfinder
Power switch
DC power in
Execute button/ Spot AF button
Preview button Lens signal contact Lens mount
Remote release terminal
Auto/Manual focus switch
Function button Function dial Drive button
Shutter button
Control dial
Menu button
Press this button to display the Menu screen on the LCD monitor. From the Menu screen, you can select various menus such as the Shooting or Replay menus.
Display button
Changes display mode
Delete button
To delete an image, press this button and confirm with + key.
Replay button
When you press the Replay button, the photo that you have shot is displayed on the LCD screen. You can select other images by using the + key or the Control dial.
Lens attachment mark
When attaching a lens, align the attachment mark on the lens with this mark and turn the lens clockwise.
Lens release button
Remove the lens by holding down the button and turning the lens anticlockwise.
Exposure Adjustment button/Reduce button
AEL button/Zoom button
Access lamp
+ key
Self-timer lamp
LCD monitor see page 14
Photos and shooting information are displayed in the
2.5-inch (230,000-dot) high-resolution LCD screen featuring Clear Photo LCD Plus technology. Choice of Navigation Display modes makes optimum use of large information screen that flips automatically to vertical orientation when camera is rotated.
Mode dial see page 16
Enables one-touch setting of shooting modes. Turn dial to select desired shooting mode.
Built-in flash
Integrated flash unit (GN 12 @ ISO 100, m) moves up and down manually.
Spot metering circle
Spot focus frame
Focus display
Wireless flash
Flash adjustments
Flash mode
High-speed synchronisation EV scale
Continuous shooting frames remaining counter
Camera shake warning
Super SteadyShot indicator
Aperture value
Shutter speed
Local focus frame
Wide focus frame
AE lock
Exposure Adjustment
Date and time
Protect DPOF printing
Image number/ Total images
Folder number ­file number
Image Quality Mode
Image size
EV scale
Sharpeness adjustment
Colour saturation adjustment
Flash mode
Flash exposure adjustment
Auto exposure lock
Contrast adjustment
Release priority
Aperture value and shutter speed
ISO equiv. setting
Image size
Image quality mode
Drive mode
Frame counter
Focus mode
Focus frame
White balance
Metering mode
Battery capacity
Dynamic range optimiser
Colour mode
Exposure mode
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Beautiful, sharp photos with no blurring
Super SteadyShot inside camera body reduces effects of camera shake
Combats camera shake for sharper handheld shots every time
Camera shake is one of the most common reasons for spoiled pictures – and it’s particularly noticeable with large prints. To reduce the number of unnecessarily spoiled photos, the 100 features Super SteadyShot – a sophisticated image stabilisation system that’s built into the camera body itself. Instead of depending on an anti-shake mechanism within each lens, Super SteadyShot operates by compensating for small movements of the CCD image sensor itself. This means that it works with all compatible Sony system lenses – and without the need for expensive specialist optics that include built-in image stabilisation.
The actual compensation effect depends on the selected lens and shooting conditions, but typically it’s equivalent to between 2 and 3.5 steps in shutter speed. As well as reducing the blur caused by camera shake, Super SteadyShot also permits handheld shooting in situations that would normally require a tripod or flash. An indicator in the bottom right hand corner of the viewfinder also provides real time indication of the amount of camera shake.
Super SteadyShot detects camera shake and shifts the position of the CCD sensor to compensate for movement of the camera body, thus reducing image blur.
Anti-Shake switch on back of camera. Without Anti-Shake the whole screen is
blurred due to
camera shake and
the photo is ruined.
High danger of camera shake
Small camera shake
Photo data / 50mm F1.4 / Handheld at 1/8sec. F2, ISO 100 White balance: Sunlight, Anti-Shake: ON
The seated subject is depicted clearly with no blur. The 1/8 sec. slow shutter speed captures the movement of the waves.
Indicator and warning icon in the viewfinder provides immediate
indication of camera shake status.
Amount of camera shake is measured on a scale of 1 to 5 indicator bars. Warning icon also illuminates whenever the danger of camera shake is high.
Operating Tip
Turn on Super SteadyShot using the switch on the back of the camera body.
Super SteadyShot inside camera body prevents blur by compensating for camera shake
Image stabilisation system operates with all system lenses
Compensation equivalent to 2-3.5 steps in shutter speed
Effective with all system lenses
Anti-dust system for flawless photos
Banish spotting, speckling and imperfections that can ruin even the best shots when dust enters the camera body as you’re changing lenses. The 100 features an advanced anti-dust system to minimise the effects of dust particles entering the camera body when lenses are exchanged. The CCD sensor’s anti­static coating acts as a barrier to dust, while a CCD vibration function briefly shakes the sensor every time the 100 is powered off to dislodge dust particles. There’s also a selectable menu function that vibrates the sensor more strongly.
Since it’s built into the camera body itself, Super SteadyShot compensates for camera shake with all interchangeable system lenses. The result? Shoot with greater confidence using all compatible optics including zooms, telephotos, macros and wide-angles.
Enjoy sharp, blur-free photos… even with a telephoto or zoom lens at high magnification.
The 100 combats the effects of dust entering the camera body when lenses are exchanged.
The dark faint blur is dirt
accumulated on the CCD
image sensor.
75-300mm F4.5-5.6
50mm
F2.8 Macro
Super SteadyShot allows handheld macro shooting with a reduced risk of camera shake.
TECHNICAL POINT
Super SteadyShot allows shutter speeds 2–3.5 steps slower than normal
The fraction ‘one over focal length’ offers a useful calculation of the minimum shutter speed (in seconds) at which sharp images can be obtained by handheld shooting. Unlike 35mm cameras, the actual shooting angle of the 100 is equivalent to the shooting angle of 1.5 times of the focal length indicated on the lens. For example, a lens with a focal length of 50mm would have an equivalent focal length of 75mm, meaning that a minimum shutter speed of approx. 1/80 sec. would be required for sharp images. Since Super SteadyShot provides compensation equivalent to 2 – 3.5 steps in shutter speed, compensation of 2 steps from 1/80 sec. would allow sharp images to be taken at 1/20 sec., while 3 steps would allow a minimum speed of only 1/10 sec.
OFF Anti-Shake ON
1/80 sec.
1/20 sec.
1/10 sec.
1/80 sec.
1/20 sec.
1/10 sec.
Shooting with a 50mm F2.8 macro lens
(35mm equivalent of 75mm)
1/100 1/80 1/60 1/50 1/40 1/30 1/25 1/20 1/15 1/13 1/10
1 2 3
Risk of blurring becomes larger
Compensation can be expected
Rough estimate for lowest speed possible without camera shake at 50mm focal length (75mm equivalent with 100) is around 1/80 sec.
Anti-Shake
ON
OFF
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High resolution image quality
10.2 Megapixel CCD sensor reveals highest levels of detail Four image quality modes
10.2 Megapixel effective resolution for crisp, clear results even at large print sizes
APS-C size sensor offers low noise and wide dynamic range
The perfect match for Sony system lenses and BIONZ image processor
Two commonly used types of JPEG formats (fine and standard)
Two RAW format modes for highest image quality (RAW and RAW+JPEG)
Resolution down to the breadth of a single hair
Discern clearly every strand of hair, even in cases such as all brown hair with no other colours for contrast.
Sharp representation of the eyes
Crisply portrayed eyelashes bring out impact and texture in deep eyes.
Natural, blurred backgrounds
The APS-C size wide area CCD blurs backgrounds to create a melting beauty that brings out the character of the subject.
Smooth skin expression
The softness and freshness of the skin is always captured thanks to resolution that can almost make out individual pores.
10.2 effective Megapixel CCD sensor
Photo data / 70-200mm, F2.8 G / 1/200sec. F5.6 ISO 100, Manual white balance
Sharp eyes, soft skin texture, and resolution down to a single hair are captured with the realism that can only be achieved by a large number of pixels and wide area CCD.
More pixels mean more detail. With an outstanding resolution of 10.2 million effective pixels, the Sony-developed CCD sensor inside the 100 offers high sensitivity and exceptionally low noise performance for stunning prints… even when they’re blown up to A3 size.
The combination of large (APS-C size) CCD sensor, RGB primary colour filter and BIONZ image processor assures breathtakingly crisp, High Definition images with superlative detailing, a wide tonal range and the subtlest colour gradations.
The 100 offers four image quality modes and three image sizes. Choosing the right mode and image size is all about finding the right balance between quality and capacity to suit your needs. For a higher image quality the required storage for each image increases, so the camera’s removable media will store fewer photographs for a specific capacity. Smaller image sizes are generally ideal for the web or e-mailing pictures – and here the JPEG compression format can be perfect to keep file sizes down while maintaining good image quality. When you need to retain the highest possible image quality however, the RAW format records the image signal exactly as it’s been captured by the CCD to create ‘digital negatives’. Since the RAW data is uncompressed, there’s none of the compression artefacts commonly associated with JPEG images. RAW files also provide the opportunity to process the image further with minimum degradation.
Photo data / 50mm F2.8 Macro, F4 Auto (+1 compensation), ISO 100, Manual white balance, RAW+JPEG
RAW
Without image compression (processing using the included software is required)
RAW + JPEG
Records two images simultaneously
Fine
JPEG format (low compression ratio = high image quality)
Standard
JPEG format (high compression ratio = standard image quality)
The number of possible photographs remaining is the standard calculated value when using a 512Mb CF card. The number of photographs that can be stored depends on the camera settings and subject.
Displays the image size that has been chosen.
Displays the number of possible photographs remaining.
Displays the image quality mode that has been chosen.
TECHNICAL POINT Verify shooting information with the camera held to your eye.
Relationship between number of images that can be stored, dependent on quality mode/compression ratio/image size
Large image sensor provides greater control over image blur for greater creative expression
A major creative advantage offered by digital SLR photography is the ability to control the ‘blurring’ of out-of-focus areas in an image – such as the foreground or background. Blurring of other parts of the image can make the subject stand out even more, providing a more three-dimensional feel. The large image sensor inside the
100 makes it possible to exercise greater control over blurring
using wide aperture settings for a wide range of creative effects.
Comparison of the CCD image sensor size (approximately full size)
A 100 APS-C size = 15.8mm x 23.6mm (approx.)
Typical compact digital cameras (1/2.5 inch) = 4.3 x 5.7mm (approx.)
Operating tips
Call up ‘Shooting Menu 1’ using the menu button on the rear of the camera and set using the + key.
Image quality Compression
Number of possible photographs remaining
mode ratio approx. 10.2 approx. 5.6 approx. 2.5
megapixels megapixels megapixels
RAW No compression CF Approx. 32 –– ––
RAW+JPEG –– CF Approx. 25 –– ––
Fine Standard compression CF Approx. 120 Approx. 208 Approx. 433
(JPEG format) (High image quality)
Standard High compression CF Approx. 188 Approx. 319 Approx. 630
(JPEG format) (Standard image quality)
L M S
100
The blurring of out-of-focus areas is the greatest when aperture is open (small ‘f’ value). These photographs were taken using the 100 and a compact digital camera with an open aperture. Because the background of the 100 image is blurred very gently, the in-focus section stands out more effectively.
Compact camera
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Naturally beautiful
BIONZ image processing engine ensures vivid, beautifully reproduced colours
The complete Sony 100 system represents a harmonious, perfectly balanced blend of lens,
10.2 Megapixel CCD sensor and BIONZ image processing engine.
It’s the job of any digital camera to retain every nuance of detail entering the lens that’s captured by the sensor... and translate it faithfully into stunning pictures. The BIONZ image processing engine inside the 100 ensures that what’s falling on the camera’s 10 Megapixel CCD sensor accurately represents the full beauty of every moment without compromise.
You can think of the newly-developed BIONZ processor as the camera’s brain that uses a powerful image processing algorithm to reduce sensor noise without lowering resolution. Tones are reproduced accurately with vivid colouration and excellent sharpness, creating images with astonishing natural beauty and depth.
Photo data/ DT 18~70mm, F3.5-5.6, F11 auto, ISO 100, White balance: Daylight, Vivid image finishing
Raw data from the 10.2 Megapixel CCD sensor is processed by the BIONZ engine to create the highest quality image
Clearer images with reduced noise
Accurate reproduction of rich tones
Realistic textures and vivid colours
Beautifully exposed, natural results even in difficult, high-contrast lighting conditions
The Dynamic Range Optimiser inside the 100 ensures evenly-balanced reproduction of the brightest highlights and the deepest shadows... even when you’re shooting high-contrast scenes or against the sun. High-contrast or strongly backlit scenes can lead to loss of highlight and shadow detail. While normal exposure compensation retrieves low-light detail at the expense of burnt out highlights, Dynamic Range Optimiser assures perfectly exposed pictures by automatically adjusting gamma curve and colour balance settings. In Standard Mode brightness and contrast levels for the whole image are automatically corrected in real time. Advanced Mode offers a higher degree of compensation by analysing and adjusting tone and colour reproduction for each area of the image separately – a process that only takes around 0.5 seconds to achieve.
Fine-tune your image or create powerful, dramatic effects with eight image finishing modes that select optimum white balance, contrast, colour saturation and sharpness to suit any scene. Whether you’re looking for an ultra-sharp look or highly saturated colours, it’s easy to choose the right image finishing mode to match the vision that’s inside your head. You can also adjust individual parameters to suit your personal preference.
1) Standard
2) Vivid
3) Portrait
4) Landscape
5) Evening Scene
6) Night Scene
7) Monochrome
8) Adobe RGB
TECHNICAL POINT
Show your true colours with choice of white balance settings.
A choice of white balance setting modes ensures natural-looking results under virtually any lighting conditions… or use it as a creative tool to enhance or suggest a mood. Get the balance right with a choice of six preset white balance modes – sunlight, shadow, cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent and flash. There’s an auto (AWB) mode approximating the human eye that ensures dependable, fuss-free results with any scene under a wide range of lighting conditions. You can also customise your own white balance settings – and if you’re not sure which WB setting is going to achieve the best results, white balance bracketing captures the same scene with three different WB settings, allowing you to select the best-looking result. Fine tuning an image’s colour balance can turn a great picture into something really special. Manual colour temperature adjustment features 19-step magenta/green compensation to emulate the effect of professional colour correction filters.
Auto (AWB)
Shadow
Flash
Sunlight
FluorescentTungsten
Cloudy
From retina to brain:
Light entering the lens of the 100 falls on the CCD sensor the instant the shutter opens, where it’s transformed into an analogue electrical signal. This signal is converted with high precision into 12-bit digital data through the A/D converter before being sent to the BIONZ image processing engine. The newly-developed BIONZ image engine is a dedicated processor using a specially developed algorithm that performs noise reduction, sharpness processing, dynamic range optimisation, colour matrixing and white balance adjustment before digital data is compressed, encoded and stored to memory. The result? Faithful reproduction of vivid, natural colours with rich tonal graduations and the sharpest detail.
BIONZ image engine processes signals from the camera’s CCD ‘eye’
Great-looking against-the-sun shots with Dynamic Range Optimiser
Eight image finishing options allow image settings to be adjusted according to your personal preference.
Image finishing feature
Automatic analysis and optimisation of ‘difficult’ scenes shot against the sun or with strong contrast
Balanced reproduction of areas of sky and shade in same image
Exposure and tone control prevents shadow and highlight detail loss
Dynamic Range Optimiser
Standard
With the default Standard setting, the contrast and exposure of the complete image are automatically adjusted and the subject’s expression is easier to see compared to the OFF setting.
Dynamic Range Optimiser
Advance
If set to Advance, a higher degree of compensation occurs. The photograph balances with high precision the strength of the colour of the background sky, the brightness of the subject’s face and the green of vegetation.
Dynamic Range Optimiser OFF
If the Dynamic Range Optimiser is switched off, the face of the subject will appear dark in photographs taken directly against the sun. Switching it off is appropriate if the intention is to take a photograph with a silhouette.
Exposure
(CCD image sensor)
A/D conversion
Electronic
developing process
Data compression
Temporary memory
(Buffer memory)
Data recording (Memory card)
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Quick response
Responsive autofocus and high speed Eye-Start system
The 100 features a high speed autofocus (AF) with all compatible system lenses. Continuous advance shooting allows you to shoot without interruption at up to three frames per second until the memory card is full* – even in full-resolution JPEG fine mode – so you can keep on shooting to your heart's content.
In ‘Wide focus area’ mode, the 100 automatically selects optimum sections from the nine individual focus points displayed in
the viewfinder, making it easier to capture moving subjects.
Predictive focus control dynamically predicts precise focus for moving subjects at the moment the shutter is released. This makes the 100 the perfect choice for sports and action photography. You can also focus on the centre of the frame only or select manually from one of nine focus points.
*Dependent on removable media capacity and performance. Unlimited continuous advance shooting can only be achieved in JPEG Fine or Standard quality mode and is not possible with Memory Stick Duo and Memory Stick PRO Duo media.
Wide focus area mode
Automatically selects the optimum from the nine focus frames.
Focus frame ‘Fixed to centre’
Autofocusing is always performed using only the centre of the focus frame.
Focus frame ‘Local’
Easily selected with the + key and Spot AF button.
Infra-red sensor positioned below the eyepiece detects when the photographer looks through the viewfinder. The LCD screen is switched off, and autofocus is activated automatically.
Eye-Start AF can also be deactivated via the navigation menu. Whether you opt to use it is up to your own personal preferences and the demands of each photographic assignment.
Focusing is completed when the camera’s lens is aimed at the subject – assuring the fastest possible response.
High speed continuous advance shooting at up to three frames per second
Capture fast-moving subjects with wide focus frame AF system
This mode is ideal for taking photographs of scenery or still-life where the subject is stationary. After focusing with AF, focus stays fixed at that position. To focus again, press the shutter button halfway down once more.
As with AF-S, AF operation stops when focusing is complete. In this mode sharpness can be 'retouched' by manually rotating the focus ring. Convenient if you want to make final delicate focusing adjustments – for example in macro photography.
Is the subject still or moving? This mode automatically analyses the scene and selects either AF-C or AF-S. This gives the convenience of not having to worry about switching AF modes when taking pictures of children, pets or general snapshots.
Fast, positive focusing is easy with four modes to suit any scene and your creative preferences. AF-S (Single AF) mode keeps focus fixed at the point where it’s been brought into focus. AF-C (Continuous AF) mode is ideal for keeping a moving subject in continuous
focus. AF-A mode selects automatically between two modes by assessing the scene. A DMF (Direct Manual Focus) mode can also be selected, allowing you to focus manually after AF is complete for fine­tuning any scene to perfection.
This mode is suitable for sports photography and other moving subjects. By pressing the shutter button halfway down, the subject can be continuously followed and kept in focus. Dynamic prediction control is also active in this mode.
AF-S
Single-shot AF
DMF
Direct Manual Focus adjustment after AF
AF-A
Automatic selection of AF-C or AF-S
AF-C
Continuous Autofocus
TECHNICAL POINT
Lock on to accurate focusing with those hard-to-capture subjects.
1) First, focus lock on the ship.
AF cannot focus easily on subjects with no contrast, like a blue sky. First, position the ship in the centre of the viewfinder and lock focus in AF-S mode by pressing the shutter button halfway down.
2) Modify the composition and press
shutter button fully.
By keeping the button pressed halfway down, the focus will not change even if you move the camera to re-frame the composition. Press the shutter button fully to take the picture when the composition is just as you want.
White walls and bright blue, cloudless skies can be tricky subjects for any SLR camera autofocus system. Alternatively, the subject you’re focusing might be off at one extremity of the scene and not covered by the focus frame. These are times when Focus Lock can be useful, allowing you to ‘freeze’ focus on a particular point before composing your picture.
Grab the moment with quick-response Eye-Start system
Four focus modes for complete control
Responding quickly to great picture opportunities depends on more than autofocus speed and continuous shooting performance alone. The 100 is also equipped with the unique Eye-Start system that ensures focusing is complete by the time the shutter button has been released. The camera’s infra-red sensor detects when you look through the viewfinder, automatically activating autofocus. Coupled with a super-fast response time of 0.9 seconds from power-on, the 100 is always ready for action.
Operating Tip
Halfway and fully pressing the shutter button
‘Halfway’ means lightly touching the shutter button to activate the camera. ‘Fully’ means pressing the button all the way in one movement to operate the shutter.
Operating Tips
Set the function dial on the top of the camera to ‘FOCUS’, call up using the centre Fn button, and set with the + key.
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Large, easy-to-use screen Navigation Display
Large 2.5-inch (230,000 pixels) Clear Photo LCD Plus screen
1. One-touch zoom into centre of focus area.
If a picture is taken with a selected local focus frame, pressing the Zoom button during instantaneous replay magnifies the image with the focus area which was used at the centre, allowing you to check focus accurately.
2. Search for the image you need with 16-frame Index Display.
Useful when you want to find an image quickly, Index Display shows multiple images when the Change View button is pressed during replay. You can also select between 4, 9, or 16 thumbnail images displayed simultaneously on screen.
Tab Browse allows you to review the contents of individual storage folders. For example, if you’ve taken a large number of pictures while on holiday, it’s easy to track down pictures taken on a certain date if they’ve been classified into folders according to the date they were taken.
3. Explore folder contents quickly with Tab Browse
TECHNICAL POINT
Information at a glance
2.5-inch 230,000 pixel Clear Photo LCD Plus Screen
Size, image resolution and comfortable viewing are prerequisites for the screen of any digital SLR camera, allowing you to critically assess the composition, quality and focus of every shot. Here the large, easy­to-view 2.5-inch screen of the 100 helps you see the big picture in even more detail. A high 230,000 pixel resolution is teamed with Clear Photo LCD Plus technology to reproduce subtle tones accurately. The screen’s Anti­Reflective Coating is a glare-reducing layer that assures a wide viewing angle, even in daylight. It’s teamed with Clear Processing technology that reproduces colours more vividly. The screen’s superb resolution also makes it easy to zoom in, judge picture sharpness and review the finest image details with greater clarity.
A glance at the Navigation Display screen is all that’s needed to confirm camera settings and shooting information in large, easy-to-read text. Concentrate on important information in zoom display mode; the display also automatically flips into vertical orientation if the camera is turned on
its side to take a portrait picture. When the Eye-Start Sensor detects that you’re looking through the viewfinder, the LCD screen automatically switches off to prevent light from the screen distracting you whilst framing a picture, also saving battery power.
Large 2.5-inch 230,000 pixel LCD screen
Crisp, clear image display even in bright outdoor conditions thanks to AR coating and Clear Processing
One-touch zoom into centre of focus area
Multi-function display
Histogram, Highlights and Shadow Alert
The histogram shows the distribution of brightness in a graph on the camera’s display screen. The horizontal axis shows the brightness reproducible with the digital camera (tone), and the vertical axis shows the amount of brightness. The far left side of the horizontal axis shows the darkest part (shadow) that can be reproduced, while the far right side shows the brightest part (highlight). A histogram that’s shifted to the right side is an indication of many light areas in the image. If it’s shifted to the left, the histogram indicates more dark areas in the scene.
An over-exposed picture will be represented by large areas of blank space displayed on the left side of the histogram. Conversely, with an under-exposed image there will be blank space at the right side of the histogram.
In addition, areas of the image that are outside dynamic range – either under or over exposed – will blink to provide a warning in the main image display.
Operating Tip
When a single frame is being replayed, simply press the up side of the +key to display the histogram, and the up side again to return to the single frame replay.
If the subject is generally white and bright, the histogram shifts to the right side, and the graph is far larger on the right edge.
Both the image and data are displayed simultaneously. But because there is no data text over the image, it is possible to view the histogram and entire image at the same time, which is a very effective way to decide the exposure.
Highlights and Shadow Alert
Highlighting is occurring on the bright parts of the shirt, and shadowing in the dark part at the upper right side of the screen. Out of range sections are displayed flashing on the screen to warn of highlighting and shadowing.
Histogram
The areas to take notice of are the edges. If either side is blank, the exposure may not be correct due to over or under exposure.
How to read the histogram
With a standard subject as in this photograph, the centre of the histogram is higher than the edges, and the left and right sides are about equal.
If the image is captured at night, or if a large amount of the subject is dark, the histogram shifts to the left side, and the graph is far larger on the left edge.
Image Zoom Range
size
L: 10M Approx. 1.1 to 12x
M: 5.6M Approx. 1.1 to 9x
S: 2.5M Approx. 1.1 to 9x
Zoom Screen
Text is large and easy to read.
Vertical format detailed display screen
The screen switches to vertical display automatically.
Horizontal format detailed display screen
(Standard display).
Zoom range for replay
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Fuss-free, fully automatic photography by selecting AUTO mode
Six Scene modes to suit your chosen subject
Optimised AF, exposure, and image finishing settings to suit any scene
Easy to use
Capture exactly the scene you want with a choice of exposure modes and bright, clear optical viewfinder
The 100: it’s automatically the best choice, whether you’re an experienced photographer or just having fun. Twist the mode dial to select the Shooting Mode that suits you best. Six Scene modes automatically select focus and exposure values plus image finishing settings – like colour saturation and contrast – providing the perfect match for any subject.
Accurate framing and focusing depends directly on the quality of the optical viewfinder. The viewfinder of the 100 features Spherical Acute Matte screen technology that enhances image brightness for sure, accurate focusing. The viewfinder provides a 95% field of view with 0.83x magnification.
Four shooting modes make it easier to select exactly the right combination of shutter speed and aperture for perfectly-exposed results with any scene without compromising your creativity.
There’s a choice of three metering modes to help you pinpoint the perfect exposure settings with any subject and under all lighting conditions. Ideal for general shooting, multi­segment metering mimics the behaviour of the human eye, assessing light levels from each of
40 individual exposure areas. Centre-weighted metering accurately measures light values at the centre of the frame plus surrounding areas, while spot mode only measures light right in the central of the frame.
AUTO Mode
Completely automatic – leaves everything up to the camera.
Portrait Mode
Capture images with the person clearly standing out in front of the blurred background.
Telephoto zoom or telephoto lenses are highly effective for this type of photography.
Landscape Mode
A great choice for wide-open landscapes that emphasises the sky’s blue colouration and the freshness of green grass.
Macro Mode
Ideal for capturing small subjects like flowers and insects when using a macro lens. Focus and aperture are controlled for beautiful background blurring that emphasises the close-up subject.
Night Portrait Night Mode
With the flash on, foreground subjects and the night background are both captured clearly. The use of a tripod is recommended for night photography.
40-segment honeycomb pattern metering
Photometric data obtained from all 40 areas is analysed to obtain the optimum exposure value. This achieves high accuracy with a fast response in low and high brightness scenes alike. This also makes it possible to differentiate the subject from background, with precise exposure for the subject that takes into account background exposure.
Centre-weighted metering
Measures light values at the centre of the screen and adjacent areas.
Spot metering
Light is only measured in the central ‘spot’ area for accurate exposure calculation, even in difficult lighting conditions.
Evening Mode
Similar to Scenery Mode, but emphasises the red of a dusky sky.
Sports mode
Freeze the action: Continuous AF follows the movement of the subject and drive mode switches to Continuous shooting.
Aperture Priority mode:
Select preferred aperture to create exactly the required depth of field effect: the 100 adjusts shutter speed automatically.
Shutter Priority mode:
Want to freeze fast moving action or blur moving water to create an abstract effect? Select shutter speed to suit your subject and aperture is adjusted automatically.
Manual mode:
Select shutter speed and aperture for absolute control over manual exposure.
The viewfinder’s bright spherical acute matte screen aids perfect focusing.
Programme mode:
Shutter speed and aperture are both determined automatically, leaving you to concentrate on capturing the perfect image without worrying about exposure settings. Perfect for snapshots and general day-to-day shooting. PAand P
S
shift modes are also available.
It’s a hassle remembering to pack a spare battery when you’re heading off on a long trip or planning to take lots of pictures. The 100 keeps going for longer thanks to its ultra-low energy consumption design and high performance Lithium ion battery pack. Enjoy up to 750 shots from a single battery charge (CIPA measurement, 50% usage of built-in flash) without worrying about running out of power. Battery level is displayed as five indicator bars on the LCD screen.
Lithium ion battery enables up to 750 shots from a single charge
TECHNICAL POINT
Use Exposure Adjustment to fine-tune image brightness
It’s easy to adjust exposure settings that have been assessed automatically by the 100.
Press the Exposure Adjustment button and then turn the control dial to adjust exposure if you want the image to be brighter or darker.
Positive adjustment
Use positive exposure adjustment for lighter images – ideal when you want to make white subjects look really white.
Negative adjustment
Use negative adjustment when you want a darker image.
Newly developed 40-segment honeycomb pattern metering sensor and three metering modes for surer, more accurate auto exposure
Four creative Exposure Modes.
Perfectly-focused results with spherical acute matte screen
Operating tips
Set by turning the control dial after pushing the Exposure Adjustment button once.
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Super wide-angle/wide-angle zone Wide-angle zone Standard zone Medium telephoto zone
Interchangeable lens system
Vario-Sonnar T* DT16-80mm F3.5-4.5ZA
Planar T* 85mm F1.4ZA
70-200mm F2.8G35mm F1.4G
24-105mm F3.5-4.5
16mm F2.8 Fisheye 50mm F1.4 75-300mm
F4.5-5.6
20mm F2.8
28mm F2.8 50mm F2.8 Macro
DT11-18mm F4.5-5.6
11mm 28mm 50mm 85mm
11mm (16mm) 28mm (42mm) 50mm (75mm) 85mm (128mm)
DT18-70mm F3.5-5.6
DT18-200mm F3.5-6.3
Medium telephoto zone Telephoto zone Telephoto zone Super telephoto zone
Sonnar T* 135mm F1.8ZA
* The value in parentheses represents the shooting angle image when the lens is attached to 100. That is approx. 1.5 times that of 35mm.
300mm F2.8G
500mm F8 Reflex
SONY Carl Zeiss Lens
SONY G Lens
SONY Lens
SONY DT Lens
100mm F2.8 Macro
100mm 200mm 300mm 500mm
100mm (150mm) 200mm (300mm) 300mm (450mm) 500mm (750mm)
P
Teleconverter
When attached to the 70-200mm F2.8G or 300mm F2.8G etc, the 1.4x teleconverter and 2x teleconverter can increase the focal length by 1.4 times and 2 times respectively.
2x Teleconverter 1.4x Teleconverter
135mm F2.8 [T4.5] STF
From wide-angles, macros and telephotos to zooms and teleconverters
A wide range of interchangeable lenses to expand your creative possibilities
Explore the full range of Sony 100 system lenses
One of the most useful features of a D-SLR camera is the choice of interchangeable lenses. This means you can choose exactly the right lens to achieve superb results with any scene – from portraits and close-up macro photography to expansive landscapes.
There’s a full range of system lenses to help you get even more out of the 100, spanning ultra wide-angle, macro, fixed focal length, zoom, telephoto and reflex models plus two teleconverters. And remember: since Super SteadyShot is incorporated inside the camera body, you can benefit from superb anti-shake performance, whichever compatible lens you’re using with the 100.
All Sony lenses offer superb imaging quality and geometric accuracy, with specially coated optical surfaces to reduce flare and ghosting, even with tricky into-the-sun shots. If you’re looking for wide apertures and extra-high contrast imaging with reduced chromatic aberration and distortion, Sony G lenses offer premium optics and advanced design features to meet the needs of discerning photographers.
Whichever system lens you choose, you can be assured of the highest quality optical performance and reliability… for exquisite results that perfectly realise your creative vision.
Lenses by Carl Zeiss
There’s only one choice when there can be absolutely no compromise on performance or reliability. Drawing on 150 years of experience in producing optical instruments of the highest precision and quality, Carl Zeiss Planar, Sonnar and Vario-Sonnar lenses are designed and constructed to the most rigorous optical and mechanical standards. The result? Beautifully engineered lenses that capture the emotion and atmosphere of any moment with unparalleled quality and fidelity.
ADI metering for precise flash measurement
Many Sony 100 system lenses support ADI (Advanced Distance Integration), incorporating a distance encoder that allows extremely precise through-the-lens calculation of subject distance. Combined with pre-flash metering and a sophisticated comparison algorithm, the 100 can ensure correct settings even with high, or low-reflectivity subjects. This means perfectly-exposed results, even with ‘problem’ subjects like night scenes, dark clothes, distant backgrounds or white walls that make conventional flash measurement tricky.
Carl Zeiss lenses
From left: DT16-80mm F3.5-4.5ZA, 135mm F1.8ZA, 85mm F1.4ZA.
Flash Pre-exposure flash
Information from camera body
AF sensor
Subject position
information
Metering Reflected light Normal light
sensor Subject Subject
information
reflectance brightness
Background Background
reflectance brightness
Information from lens
Distance encoder
Subject distance
information
Calculation
Determines flash level guide Number
Flash Actual flash
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Flash accessories
There’s a full range of flash accessories giving you total control over creating exactly the lighting effects you want. Connecting cables allow you to trigger up to three external flash units simultaneously – and remember with wireless flash there’s no limit on the number of external flashes you can add. You can also reduce recharging time between flashes using an external power source (only for HVL-F56AM).
Viewfinder accessories
Low-angle and other awkward shooting positions become more comfortable with the handy angle finder. It’s easier to scrutinise close­up, macro or telephoto shots with the powerful eyepiece magnifier that enlarges the centre section of the frame by 2.3x.
Memory Stick media
You’ll appreciate the choice of removable media options to store your pictures. Images can be recorded on Memory Stick PRO Duo or Memory Stick PRO Duo High Speed using the supplied Memory Stick CF adaptor. In addition, the CF slot accepts Type I or Type II (MicroDrive) removable media directly.
Accessories that take your creativity to the next level
Extend the possibilities of artistic expression Simple image editing using supplied software applications
There’s a range of compatible system flashes and lighting systems that’s designed for perfect results every time – whether you’re a novice or an experienced photographer. Two external flashes can be used on-body or sited off-camera for even more natural, professional-looking results. High-accuracy ADI metering technology* adjusts flash output power based on subject distance and reflectivity as well as aperture and ISO settings for perfect exposure every time. Wireless TTL flash mode makes
it simpler than ever to remove unwanted shadows or create natural­looking fill-in lighting effects. Just add one or more off-camera flash guns for accurate, perfectly balanced results – with no cables or fiddly settings. If you are into macro photography there is also a choice of specialist lighting systems that has been created for the most demanding still life, nature or scientific close-ups.
* With ADI compatible lenses
Easy wireless flash photography
External flash opens up a new world of creative lighting possibilities, allowing you to bounce light into places that your camera’s built-in flash can’t reach. Wireless TTL flash makes it even simpler to remove
unwanted shadows or create natural-looking fill-in lighting effects with no cables and no fiddly settings. The 100 works it all out for you to assure beautifully-exposed results every time.
The HVL-F56AM flash can be rotated up 90˚, down 10˚, left 180˚ and right 90˚, allowing you to bounce light in any direction.
External flash units for general use are the high power HVL-F56AM (Guide No. 56, ISO 100) and HVL-F36AM (Guide No. 36, ISO 100). There’s also a choice of ring light and twin macro flash systems for photographing close-up subjects.
Shooting with external flash attached to camera
An external flash unit attached to the camera’s hot shoe provides greater illumination than the camera’s built-in flash.
Shooting with off-camera flash
Light from an external flash sited off-camera can remove unwanted shadows on the subject or create a feeling of additional depth.
Image Data Converter
Easy RAW data processing
Images captured in RAW mode using the 100 can be refined even further on your PC with a wide range of functions including tone curve and sharpness. Easy to use – even for beginners.
Picture Motion Browser
1. Simple storage and management of captured images. 2. Simple image printing and adjustment.
Download images from the 100 to your computer to display, zoom, sort and manage them on-screen.
Recommended system requirements
Computer Windows Macintosh
OS Microsoft Windows 2000 / XP Home / XP Pro Mac OS X v10.3-10.4
CPU Pentium III 1 GHz or faster iMac , eMac, iBook, PowerBook,
Power Mac G4/G5 series
Memory 256MB or more (512MB or more recommended) 256MB or more (512MB or more recommended)
Virtual memory 700MB or more
Display 1024x768 dots or more, High Colour (16 bit colour) or higher 1024x768 dot or more, 32,000 colours or more
Recommended system requirements
Computer Windows
OS Microsoft Windows 2000 / ME / XP Home / XP Pro
CPU/Memory Pentium III 500MHz or faster / 128MB or more RAM (Pentium III 800MHz or faster / 256MB or more RAM preferred)
Required software Direct 9.0c or later
Hard disk space Disk space required for installation: Approx. 200MB
Display 800x600 resolution minimum, High colour (16 bit) or better
(Picture Motion Browser is not compatible with Macintosh.)
Macro Flash and Light
Flash
HVL-MT24AM
Macro Twin Flash Kit
HVL-RLAM
Ring Light
HVL-F56AM
Flash
HVL-F36AM
Flash
HVL-F56AM HVL-F36AM
FA-CS1AM
Off-camera Shoe
for Flash
FA-EC1AM
Extension Cable
for Flash
Angle Finder
FDA-A1AM
Magnifier
FDA-M1AM
MSX-M1GN MSX-M2GN
MSX-M2GS MSX-M4GS
FA-MC1AM
Multi Flash Cable
FA-CC1AM
Off-camera Cable
for Flash
FA-TC1AM
Triple Connector
for Flash
FA-EB1AM
External Battery Adaptor for Flash
*HVL-F56AM only
Accessories
Remote Commander Case & Strap
Battery and Charger
Finder
Removable Memory and Storage Devices
RM-S1AM
Remote Commander
RM-L1AM
Remote Commander
LCS-AMA
Soft Carrying Case
LCS-AMSC30
Soft Carrying Case
NP-FM55H
Rechargeable
Battery Pack
AC-VQ900AM
AC Adaptor/Charger
DPP-FP55
Digital Photo Printer
HDPS-M10
Hard Disk Photo
Storage Unit
FDA-A1AM
Angle Finder
FDA-M1AM
Magnifier
Eyepiece
Correctors
LCL-60AM
Lens Case
LCL-90AM
Lens Case
LCL-140AM
Lens Case
STP-SH1AM / STP-SS1AM
Shoulder Strap
MSXM2GNX MSXM1GNX MSXM4GSX
MSXM2GSX MSXM1GSX MSXM512SX
MSXM256SX
Memory Stick PRO Duo
Memory Stick PRO Duo (high speed)
Memory Stick PRO Duo
Digital Photo Printer
Accessories
Multi flash cable FA-MC1AM
100+HVL-F56AM 100
HVL-F56AM
MSX-M2GN
MSX-M4GS
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Specifications
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