Preparing the camera Before your operation Shooting images Using the shooting function Using the viewing function Changing your setup Viewing images on a computer Printing images
Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website.
Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera Instruction Manual

DSLR-A500/A550

Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.

Owners Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. DSLR-A500/A550 Serial No. __________________________

WARNING

To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. DANGER - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, CAREFULLY FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
If the shape of the plug does not fit the power outlet, use an attachment plug adaptor of the proper configuration for the power outlet.

Caution

Battery pack
If the battery pack is mishandled, the battery pack can burst, cause a fire or even chemical burns. Observe the following cautions. Do not disassemble. Do not crush and do not expose the battery pack to any shock or force such as hammering, dropping or stepping on it. Do not short circuit and do not allow metal objects to come into contact with the battery terminals. Do not expose to high temperature above 60C (140F) such as in direct sunlight or in a car parked in the sun. Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire. Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Be sure to charge the battery pack using a genuine Sony battery charger or a device that can charge the battery pack.
Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small children. Keep the battery pack dry. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by Sony. Dispose of used battery pack promptly described the instructions.
For Customers in the U.S.A.
UL is an internationally recognized safety organization. The UL Mark on the product means it has been UL Listed. If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Services Center 1-800-222-SONY (7669) The number below is for the FCC related matters only.

Battery charger

Even if the CHARGE lamp is not lit, the battery charger is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet (wall socket). If some trouble occurs while using the battery charger, immediately shut off the power by disconnecting the plug from the wall outlet (wall socket).
For Customers in the U.S.A. and Canada
RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable. You can help preserve our environment by returning your used rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location nearest you. For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1-800-822-8837, or visit http:// www.rbrc.org/ Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion batteries.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules, Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DSLR-A500 Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address:16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. The supplied interface cable must be used with the equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

Black, white, red, blue and green points Do not hold the camera by taking hold of the LCD monitor. Do not expose the camera to direct sunlight. If sunlight is focused on a nearby object, it may cause a fire. When you must place the camera under direct sunlight, attach the lens cap. Images may trail across on the LCD monitor in a cold location. This is not a malfunction. When turning on the camera in a cold location, the LCD monitor may become temporarily dark. When the camera warms up, the monitor will function normally. Do not press against the LCD monitor. The monitor may be discolored and that may cause a malfunction.
No compensation for contents of the recording
The contents of the recording cannot be compensated for if recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction of your camera or a memory card, etc.

Back up recommendation

To avoid the potential risk of data loss, always copy (back up) data to other medium.

Warning on copyright

Television programs, films, videotapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provisions of the copyright laws.
Notes on the LCD monitor and lens
The LCD monitor is manufactured using extremely high-precision technology so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue or green in color) that constantly appear on the LCD monitor. These points are normal in the manufacturing process and do not affect the images in any way. To deal with such issues that may appear in Live View mode, you may reduce the effect by using the Pixel mapping function (page 163).
The pictures used in this manual
The photographs used as examples of pictures in this manual are reproduced images, and are not actual images shot using this camera.
On the data specifications described in this Instruction Manual
The data on performance and specifications is defined under the following conditions, except as described in this Instruction Manual: at an ordinary ambient temperature of 25C (77F), and using a fully charged battery pack.

Table of Contents

Notes on using your camera... 7

Preparing the camera

Checking the accessories supplied.. 12 Preparing the battery pack.. 13 Attaching a lens... 20 Inserting a memory card.. 22 Preparing the camera.. 25 Using the accessories supplied.. 27 Checking the number of recordable images.. 29 Cleaning... 32 Identifying parts and screen indicators.. 35 Front side... 35 Rear side... 36 Top.... 38 Sides/Bottom.. 39 Switching the recording information display (DISP)... 40 LCD monitor.. 41 Selecting a function/setting.. 43 Selecting a function with the Fn (Function) button. 44 The functions selected by the Fn (Function) button. 45 The functions selected by the MENU button. 45 Correct posture... 47 Using the SteadyShot function.. 48 Using a tripod... 49 / Shooting with the automatic setting.. 50 Using the Face Detection function.. 52 Shooting with a suitable setting for the subject (Scene Selection)... 54 Taking portrait photos.. 55 Taking landscape photos.. 56 Taking small-subject photos.. 57 Taking moving-subject photos.. 58 Taking sunset photos.. 59 Taking night view photos. 60

Before your operation

Shooting images Shooting an image without camera shake.. 47
Shooting an image the way you want it (Exposure mode)... 61 Shooting with program auto.. 62 Shooting by controlling the blur of the background (Aperture priority).. 63 Shooting a moving subject with various expressions (Shutter speed priority).. 65 Shooting with the exposure adjusted manually (Manual exposure).. 67 Shooting trails with long exposure (BULB).. 69 Shooting with the viewfinder (OVF). 71 Switching to the viewfinder.. 71 Adjusting the focus of the finder (diopter adjustment)... 72 Switching the recording information display (DISP)... 73 LCD monitor (Graphic Display).. 74 LCD monitor (Standard Display). 76 Viewfinder... 78 Selecting the focus method... 79 Using the Using autofocus... 79 shooting function Shooting with your desired composition (Focus-lock)... 81 Selecting the focus method to suit the movement of the subject (Autofocus mode).. 82 Selecting the focus area (AF area).. 83 Adjusting the focus manually (Manual focus). 84 Checking the focus by enlarging the image (Manual focus check).. 85 Zooming in in one step.. 87 Using the flash... 88 Performing wireless flash shooting.. 91 Adjusting the brightness of the image (Exposure, Flash compensation, Metering).. 92 Shooting with fixed brightness (AE Lock). 92 Using brightness compensation for the entire image (Exposure compensation).. 93

MENU button t

1 t [Date/Time setup]
Using the accessories supplied
This section describes how to use the shoulder strap, the eyepiece cover, and eyecup. The other accessories are described in the following pages. Rechargeable battery pack (page 13) Battery charger, Power cord (mains lead) (page 13) USB cable (pages 141, 154) CD-ROM (page 148)
Attaching the shoulder strap
Attach both ends of the strap onto the camera.
You can also attach the eyepiece cover (page 28) on the strap.

Eyepiece cover

Using the eyepiece cover and eyecup
You can prevent light from entering through the viewfinder and affecting the exposure. When the shutter is released without the use of the viewfinder in viewfinder mode, as in shooting with the self-timer, attach the eyepiece cover.
1 Tilt the LCD monitor downward.
2 Carefully slide the eyecup off by
pushing on each side of the eyecup.
Put your fingers under the eyecup, and slide it upward. When attaching the FDA-M1AM Magnifier (sold separately), the FDAA1AM Angle Finder (sold separately), or the FDA-ME1AM Magnifying Eyepiece (sold separately) to the camera, remove the eyecup as illustrated and attach them.
3 Slide the eyepiece cover over the

viewfinder.

Note The eyepiece sensors located below the viewfinder may be activated depending on the situation, and the focus may be adjusted or the LCD monitor may continue to flash. In such cases, turn off both [Eye-Start AF] (page 71) and [Auto off w/ VF] (page 136).
Checking the number of recordable images
Once you insert a memory card into the camera and set the power switch to ON, the number of images that can be recorded (should you continue to shoot using the current settings) is displayed on the LCD monitor.
Notes When 0 (the number of recordable images) flashes in yellow, the memory card is full. Replace the memory card with another one, or delete images in the current memory card (page 123). When NO CARD (the number of recordable images) flashes in yellow, it means no memory card has been inserted. Insert a memory card.

DISP button

Graphic Display

Recording information on

Histogram on
Recording information off

Histogram (page 94)

LCD monitor
The Graphic Display graphically shows the shutter speed and aperture value and clearly illustrates how the exposure works. Graphic Display Recording information display

A Display Indication

B Display Indication Spot metering area (97) AF area (83) Image quality (129) Shutter speed indicator (65) Aperture indicator (63)

MF CHECK LV

P A S M Mode dial (50 70)

Manual focus check (85)

Overheating warning (170) Image size (128)/Aspect ratio (128) Memory card (22) 100 Remaining number of recordable images (29) 100% Remaining battery (18)
C Display z 1/125 F3.5 Indication Focus (80) Shutter speed (65) Aperture (63) EV scale (68, 111) AE lock (92) Camera shake warning (48) SteadyShot scale (48)
D Display Indication Drive mode (108) is only for the DSLR-A550. Flash mode (88)/Red-eye reduction (90) Focus mode (82) AF area (83) Face Detection (52) Smile Shutter (113) Smile Detection Sensitivity indicator (113)
E Display Indication ISO sensitivity (103) Metering (97) +2.0 AWB Flash compensation (95) White balance (Auto, Preset, Custom, Color temperature, Color filter) (104) D-Range Optimizer (98)/ Auto HDR (99) Creative Style (101)

7500K G9

Selecting a function/setting
You can select a function for shooting or playback with the one of buttons, such as the Fn (Function) button, or the MENU button. When you start an operation, an operation guide of controller functions will be displayed at the bottom of the screen. : Press v/V/b/B on the controller to move the cursor. z: Press the center button to execute the selection. In this Instruction Manual, the process of selecting a function with the controller from the list displayed on the screen is described as follows (we explain the process with the default icons.):
Example: Fn button t AWB (White balance) t Select the desired setting
The operation guide list The operation guide also indicates operations other than the controller operation. The indications of icons are as follows.
MENU button Returns with MENU button Fn button (Delete) button (Zoom in) button (Zoom out) button (Playback) button Control dial
Selecting a function with the Fn (Function) button

This button is used for setting up or executing functions used frequently in shooting.

1 Press the Fn button.

2 Select the desired item with v/V/
b/B on the controller, then press the center z to execute.
The setup screen appears.
3 Following the operation guide,
select and execute the desired function.
For details on how to set up each item, see the corresponding page.

Operation guide

To set up the camera directly from the recording information screen Turn the control dial without pressing the center z in step 2. You can set up the camera directly from the recording information screen.
The functions selected by the Fn (Function) button
Drive mode (108) Flash mode (88) Autofocus mode (82) AF area (83) Face Detection (52) Smile Shutter (113) ISO sensitivity (103) Metering mode (97) Flash compens. (95) White balance (104) DRO/Auto HDR (98) Creative Style (101) Before your operation
The functions selected by the MENU button
You can set up the basic settings for the camera as a whole or execute functions such as shooting, playback, or other operations. Recording menu
Image size (128) Aspect ratio (128) Quality (129) 1 Flash control (96) AF illuminator (90) SteadyShot (48) Color Space (102) Long exp.NR (132) High ISO NR (132) 2

Custom menu

Eye-Start AF (71) AEL button (92) Red eye reduc. (90) 1 Auto review (135) Auto off w/ VF (136) Grid Line (136)

Playback menu

Delete (123) Format (131) Slide show (118) 1 Protect (122) Specify Printing (152) PlaybackDisplay (115)
LCD brightness (135) Date/Time setup (25) Power Save (LV) (134) 1 Power Save (OVF) (134) CTRL FOR HDMI (127) Language (134) Help Guide disp. (134) Cleaning mode (33) Pixel mapping (163) Version (137) Reset default (138) File number (130) Folder name (130) Select folder (131) 2 New folder (131) USB connection (141, 154) Audio signals (134)

Shooting images

Shooting an image without camera shake
Camera shake refers to unwanted movement of the camera that occurs after the shutter button has been pressed, resulting in a blurred image. To reduce camera shake, follow the instructions below.

Correct posture

Stabilize your upper body and take a position that keeps the camera from moving.

In Live View mode

In viewfinder mode
Point 1 One hand holds the grip of the camera, and the other hand supports the lens. Point 2 Take a secure stance with your feet shoulder-width apart.

This mode is suitable for z Shooting portraits in night scenes. z Shooting night scenes at a distance without losing the dark atmosphere of the surroundings.
Set the flash mode to persons (page 88).

(Night Port./View).

(Flash Off) when you shoot a night view without
Take care that the subject does not move to prevent the image from blurring. The shutter speed is slower, so using a tripod is recommended.
Note The picture may not be taken properly when shooting a wholly dark night scene.
Shooting an image the way you want it (Exposure mode)
With a single lens reflex camera, you can adjust the shutter speed (how long the shutter is open) and aperture (the range that is in focus: depth of field) to enjoy a variety of photographic expressions. Adjusting the shutter speed and aperture not only creates the photographic effects of movement and focus, but also determines the brightness of the image by controlling the amount of exposure (the amount of light the camera takes in), which is the most important factor in photo shooting. Shooting images Changing the brightness of the picture by the amount of exposure

Amount of exposure

When using a faster shutter speed, the camera opens the shutter for a shorter time. This means less time for the camera to take in light, resulting in a darker picture. To take a brighter picture, you can open the aperture (the hole through which the light passes) to some extent in order to adjust the amount of light the camera takes in at one time. The brightness of the picture adjusted by the shutter speed and aperture is called exposure. This section will show you how to adjust the exposure and enjoy various photo expressions by the use of movement, focus, and light. When you turn the mode dial, the explanation of the selected mode and methods of shooting are displayed on the screen (Help Guide disp.). You can clear the Help Guide (page 134).
Shooting with program auto
This mode is suitable for z Using the automatic exposure, while keeping the custom settings for ISO sensitivity, Creative Style, D-Range optimizer, etc.
1 Set the mode dial to P. 2 Set the shooting functions to your desired settings (pages 79 to
To fire the flash, press the button.
3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.
Shooting by controlling the blur of the background (Aperture priority)
This mode is suitable for z Putting the subject in sharp focus and blur everything in front of and beyond the subject. Opening the aperture narrows the range that is in focus. (Depth of field becomes shallower.) Shooting images
z Shooting the depth of the scenery.
Narrowing down the aperture widens the range that is in focus. (Depth of field becomes deeper.)
1 Set the mode dial to A.
2 Select the aperture value (Fnumber) with the control dial.
Smaller F-number: The foreground and background of the subject are blurred. Larger F-number: The subject and its foreground and background are all in focus. You cannot check the blurring of an image on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. Check the recorded image and adjust the aperture.

Checking the focus by enlarging the image (Manual focus check)
You can check the focus by enlarging the image before shooting using the image sensor used for recording.
1 Press the MF CHECK LV button.
The mirror slides up and the image is displayed on the LCD monitor in the 100percent field of view. The indication of the shutter speed and exposure are fixed when the manual focus check starts. The camera meters the light again right before shooting and the exposure is set. The image is displayed with the proper brightness regardless of the determined exposure. The exposure compensation is not reflected in the displayed image, however, it is reflected in the recorded image.

MF CHECK LV button

2 Press the
button to enlarge the image and select the portion you want to enlarge with v/V/b/B on the controller.
Each time you press the button, the zoom scaling changes as follows: Full display t Approx. 7 t Approx. 14
3 Confirm and adjust the focus.
You can adjust the focus manually in manual focus check mode. If you press the AF button in autofocus mode, the autofocus is activated. The mirror slides down in autofocus mode and the display is interrupted. When [AF area] is set to (Local), the autofocus can also be activated using the controller.
4 Press the shutter button fully down to shoot the image.
You can record images when the zoom scaling is set to approx. 7 or 14, however the recorded image is for full display. The manual focus check function will be released after shooting.
If you press the MF CHECK LV button when the camera is in AE lock mode, you can check a version of the image that reflects the compensated exposure. When you start shooting from this point, the camera starts exposure at the AE lock state. You can remove a grid line (page 136).
Notes The camera does not focus on a subject when you press the shutter button halfway down. You cannot use the Face Detection and Smile Shutter functions. The image in the viewfinder is not visible in manual focus check mode. When is indicated, the temperature of the camera is increasing. If you intend to continue to perform the manual focus check, you cannot use the camera until the temperature decreases (page 170). When using the manual focus check function in viewfinder mode, it is recommend that you attach the eyepiece cover (page 28). When you perform continuous or exposure bracket shooting in manual focus check mode, the autofocus is set at the first shot.

1 Attach the wireless flash to the accessory shoe and turn both
the camera and the flash on.

2 Fn button t

(Flash mode) t

(Wireless)

3 Remove the wireless flash from the accessory shoe and pop up

the built-in flash.

If you perform a test fire of the flash, press the AEL button.
Notes The camera cannot carry out the wireless lighting ratio control. Turn off the wireless flash mode after wireless flash shooting. If the built-in flash is used while the wireless flash mode is still active, inaccurate flash exposures will result. Change the channel of the external flash when another photographer is using a wireless flash nearby and his/her built-in flash light causes your external flash to fire. To change the channel of the external flash, refer to the operating instructions supplied with it.
Setup of the AEL button When using a wireless flash, it is recommended that you set [AEL button] to [AEL hold] in the Custom menu (page 133).
Adjusting the brightness of the image (Exposure, Flash compensation, Metering)
Shooting with fixed brightness (AE Lock)
When shooting into the sun or by a window, the exposure may not be appropriate for the subject because of the big difference in lighting between the subject and the background. In such cases, use the light meter where the subject is bright enough and lock the exposure before shooting. To reduce the brightness of the subject, point the camera forwards a spot that is brighter than the subject and use the light meter to lock the exposure of the entire image. To make the subject brighter, point the camera forwards a spot that is darker than the subject and use the light meter to lock the exposure of the entire image. This section describes how to shoot a brighter image of the subject using the (Spot).
The spot where you lock the exposure.

1 Fn button t

(Metering mode) t

(Spot)

2 Adjust the focus on the portion you want to lock the exposure.
The exposure is set when the focus is achieved.
3 Press the AEL button to lock the

exposure.

(AE lock mark) appears.
4 While pressing the AEL button, focus on the subject, and shoot

the subject.

If you continue to shoot with the same exposure value, press and hold the AEL button after the shooting. The setting is canceled when the button is released.
Using brightness compensation for the entire image (Exposure compensation)
Except for exposure mode M, the exposure is automatically selected (Automatic exposure). Based on the exposure acquired by the automatic exposure, you can perform exposure compensation by shifting the exposure to either the + side or the side, depending on your preference. You can make the entire image brighter by shifting to the + side. The entire image becomes darker when you shift it to the side.

Image processing

Selecting your desired image processing (Creative Style)

setting

(Creative Style) t Select the desired
2 When you want to adjust
(Contrast), (Saturation), or (Sharpness), select the desired item with b/B, then adjust the value with v/V.
(Standard) (Vivid) For shooting various scenes with rich gradation and beautiful colors. The saturation and contrast are heightened for shooting striking images of colorful scenes and subjects such as flowers, spring greenery, blue sky, or ocean views. For shooting the skin color in a soft tone, ideally suited to shooting portraits. The saturation, contrast, and sharpness are heightened for shooting vivid and crisp scenery. Distant landscapes also stand out more. For shooting the beautiful red of the setting sun. For shooting images in black and white monotone.

(Portrait) (Landscape)

(Sunset) (B/W)
(Contrast), (Saturation), and Creative Style item.

(Contrast)

(Sharpness) can be adjusted for each
The higher the value selected, the more the difference of light and shadow is accentuated, thus making an impact on an image. The higher the value selected, the more vivid the color. When a lower value is selected, the color of the image is restrained and subdued. Adjusts the sharpness. The higher the value selected, the more the contours are accentuated, and the lower the value selected, the more the contours are softened.

(Saturation)

(Sharpness)
Notes When the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection, [Creative Style] is fixed to (Standard) and you cannot select other settings. When (B/W) is selected, you cannot adjust the saturation.
Changing the range of color reproduction (Color Space)
The way colors are represented with combinations of numbers or the range of color reproduction is called color space. You can change the color space, depending on your purpose.
1 t [Color Space] t Select the desired
This is the standard color space of the digital camera. Use sRGB in normal shooting, such as when you intend to print out the images without any modification. This has a wide range of color reproduction. When a large part of the subject is vivid green or red, Adobe RGB is effective. The file name of the image starts with _DSC.

Adjusting the white balance to suit a specific light source (Auto/Preset white balance)
Fn button t AWB (White balance) t Select the desired setting
When [AWB] is not selected, you can fine tune the color tone with b/B on the controller. Adjusting it toward + turns the image reddish and adjusting it toward turns the image bluish.
AWB (Auto WB) (Daylight) (Shade) (Cloudy) (Incandescent) (Fluorescent) (Flash)
The camera automatically detects a light source and adjusts the color tones. If you select an option to suit a specific light source, the color tones are adjusted for the light source (preset white balance).
Use the white balance bracket function if you cannot get the desired color in the selected option (page 111). When you select [5500K] (ColorTemperature) or [0] (Color filter), you can adjust the value to the desired value (below). When you select (Custom), you can register your setting (page 106).
Setting the color temperature and a filter effect (Color Temperature/Color filter)
Fn button t AWB (White balance) t [5500K] (ColorTemperature) or [0] (Color filter)
To set the color temperature, select the value with b/B. To set the color filter, select the compensation direction with b/B.
Note Since color meters are designed for film cameras, the values differ under fluorescent/ sodium lamp/mercury lamps. We recommend that you use the custom white balance or do a test shooting.
5500K*1 (ColorTemperature) 0*2 (Color filter)
Sets the white balance by the color temperature. The higher the number, the more reddish the image and the lower the number, the more bluish the image. Achieves the effect of CC (Color Compensation) filters for photography. Based on using the set color temperature as the standard, the color can be compensated to G (Green) or M (Magenta).
*1 The value is the color temperature value currently selected. *2 The value is the color filter value currently selected.
Registering the color tones (Custom white balance)
In a scene where the ambient light consists of multiple types of light source, use of custom white balance is recommended in order to accurately reproduce the whiteness.
1 Fn button t AWB (White balance) t 2 Select [

(Custom)

SET] with b/B on the controller, then press the center of the controller.
3 Hold the camera so that the white area fully covers the AF area
located in the center, and then press the shutter button down.
The shutter clicks and the calibrated values (ColorTemperature and Color filter) are displayed.

To shoot continuously at higher speeds (DSLR-A550 only) The camera shoots continuously at a maximum of seven images per second. The exposure and focus are set at the first shot.

(Spd.Prty.Cont.Adv.)

Notes You cannot shoot images continuously when 0 flashes in the viewfinder. Wait until the indicator disappears. You cannot shoot continuously when using Scene Selection modes other than (Sports Action). When [Face Detection] is set to [On], the speed of continuous shooting may be slower.

Using the self-timer

The 10-second self-timer is convenient when the photographer appears in a photo and the 2-second self-timer is convenient to reduce the camera shake.

The number after

(Self-timer) t Select the desired setting
is the number of seconds that is currently selected.
When the self-timer is activated, audio signals and the self-timer lamp indicate the condition. The self-timer lamp flashes quickly and the audio signal sounds quickly right before the shooting.
To cancel the self-timer Press the button.
Note When you shoot images using the viewfinder, use the eyepiece cover (page 28).
Shooting images with the exposure shifted (Exposure bracket)

Base exposure

direction

+ direction

Bracket shooting allows you to shoot several images, each with different degrees of exposure. Specify the value of deviation (steps) from the base exposure, and the camera shoots three images while automatically shifting the exposure. Press and hold the shutter button until the shooting stops. When the flash is fired, flash bracket shooting is used to shift the amount of flash light. To shoot, press the shutter button shot by shot.

button t bracket step

(Bracket: Cont.) t Select the desired
The base exposure is set at the first shot in the bracket.
Notes When the mode dial is set to M, the exposure is shifted by adjusting the shutter speed. When you adjust the exposure, the exposure is shifted based on the compensated value. The bracket cannot be used when the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection.

[Manual focus check]

Image format Image sensor for shooting Field of View 100%

[Live View]

Type Pentamirror tilt mechanism Image format Exclusive image sensor for Live View Metering method 1200-zone evaluative metering Metering range 1 to 17 EV (Multi segment, Center weighted, Spot) (at ISO 100 conversion with F1.4 lens) Field of View 90%

[SteadyShot]

System Image sensor-shift mechanism

[Viewfinder]

Type Fixed eye-level pentaDach-mirror

[Anti-Dust]

System Charge protection coating on Low-Pass Filter and image sensor-shift mechanism
Field of View 95% Magnification 0.80 with 50 mm lens at infinity, 1 m1 (diopter)

Eye Relief

Approximately 19 mm from the eyepiece, 15 mm from the eyepiece frame at 1 m1
Recycling time Approx. 4 seconds Flash coverage Covering 18 mm lens (focal length that the lens indicates) Flash compensation 2.0 EV (1/3 EV step)
Dioptor Adjustment 2.5 to +1.0 m1

[Exposure control]

Metering Cell SPC Metering method 40-segment honeycombpattern, the exclusive image sensor for Live View in Live View mode Metering Range 2 to 20 EV (4 to 20 EV with Spot metering), (at ISO 100 conversion with F1.4 lens) 1 to 17 EV in Live View mode (on all metering modes, at ISO 100 conversion with F1.4 lens) ISO sensitivity (Recommended exposure index) AUTO, ISO 200 to 12800 Exposure compensation 2.0 EV (1/3 EV step)

[Recording media]

Memory Stick PRO Duo media, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media, SD memory card, SDHC memory card

[LCD monitor]

LCD panel 7.5 cm (3.0 type) TFT drive Total number of dots DSLR-A600 ((RGB) 480) dots DSLR-A400 (960 240) dots

[Input/output terminals]

USB HDMI miniB HDMI type C minijack

[Shutter]

Type Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focalplane type

[Power, general]

Used battery pack Rechargeable battery pack NP-FM500H
Speed range 1/4000 second to 30 seconds, bulb, (1/3 EV step) Flash sync speed 1/160 second

[Others]

PictBridge Exif Print Compatible Compatible

[Built-In-Flash]

Flash G.No. GN 12 (in meters at ISO 100)
PRINT Image Matching III Compatible
Dimensions Approx. 84 mm (5 1/1/3/8 inches) (W/H/D, excluding protrusions) Mass DSLR-A550 Approx. 599 g (1 lb 5.1 oz) (without batteries, memory card and body accessories) DSLR-A500 Approx. 597 g (1 lb 5.1 oz) (without batteries, memory card and body accessories)
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FM500H
Used battery Lithium-ion battery Maximum voltage DC 8.4 V Nominal voltage DC 7.2 V Maximum charge current 2.0 A Maximum charge voltage DC 8.4 V Capacity Typical 11.8 Wh (mAh) Minimum 11.5 Wh (mAh) Maximum dimensions Approx. 38.2 20.5 55.6 mm (1 9/16 13/1/4 inches) (W/H/D) Mass Approx. 78 g (2.8 oz)

For Customers in Europe

Notice for the customers in the countries applying EU Directives
The manufacturer of this product is Sony Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan. The Authorized Representative for EMC and product safety is Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany. For any service or guarantee matters please refer to the addresses given in separate service or guarantee documents. This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).

Attention

The electromagnetic fields at the specific frequencies may influence the picture and sound of this unit.

Notice

If static electricity or electromagnetism causes data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart the application or disconnect and connect the communication cable (USB, etc.) again.
Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)
Disposal of waste batteries (applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)
This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.
This symbol on the battery or on the packaging indicates that the battery provided with this product shall not be treated as household waste. By ensuring these batteries are disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potentially negative consequences for the environment and human health which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of the battery. The recycling of the materials will help to conserve natural resources. In case of products that for safety, performance or data integrity reasons require a permanent connection with an incorporated battery, this battery should be replaced by qualified service staff only. To ensure that the battery will be treated properly, hand over the product at end-oflife to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. For all other batteries, please view the section on how to remove the battery from the product safely. Hand the battery over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of waste batteries. For more detailed information about recycling of this product or battery, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

The Memory Stick PRO Duo media with a capacity up to 16 GB or the SD memory cards with a capacity up to 32 GB have been confirmed to operate properly with this camera. The memory cards formatted with a computer are not guaranteed to operate with this camera. Data read/write speeds differ depending on the combination of the memory cards and the equipment used. Do not press down hard when you write down on the memo area. Do not attach a label on the memory cards themselves. Do not disassemble or modify the memory cards. Do not leave the memory cards within the reach of small children. They might accidentally swallow it. Notes on the Memory Stick media used with the camera The types of Memory Stick media that can be used with this camera are listed in the table below. However, proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all Memory Stick PRO Duo media functions.
Memory Stick PRO Duo media* Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media* Memory Stick Duo media
Available with your camera
Unavailable with your camera
Memory Stick media and Memory Stick PRO media
* This is equipped with MagicGate function. MagicGate is copyright protection technology that uses encryption technology. Data recording/playback that requires MagicGate functions cannot be performed with this camera. * Supports high-speed data transfer using a parallel interface.

Setting up the date

When you turn the camera on for the first time, the date/time setup screen appears. Preparing the camera
1 Set the power switch to ON to turn

the camera on.

To turn the camera off, set it to OFF.
2 Verify that [OK] is selected on the
LCD monitor, then press the center of the control button.
3 Select each item with b/B and
set the numeric value with v/V.
When changing the sequence of [YYYY/MM/DD], first select [YYYY/ MM/DD] with b/B, then change it with v/V.
4 Repeat step 3 to set other items, then press the center of the

control button.

5 Verify that [OK] is selected, then press the center of the control

button.

To cancel the date/time setting operation Press the MENU button. To set up the date/time again

MENU button t

2 t [Date/Time setup]
Adjusting the focus of the finder (diopter adjustment)

Cleaning the image sensor
If dust or debris enters the camera and lands on the image sensor (the part that acts as the film), it may appear on the photo image, depending on the shooting environment. If there is dust on the image sensor, use a commercially available blower and clean the image sensor following the steps below. You can easily clean the image sensor using only the blower and the anti-dust function.
Notes Cleaning can be performed only when the battery level is (three remaining battery icons) or more. Low battery power during cleaning can cause damage to the shutter. The cleaning should be completed quickly. The use of an AC-PW10AM AC Adaptor (sold separately) is recommended. Do not use a spray blower because it may scatter water droplets inside the camera body.
1 Confirm that the battery is fully charged (page 16). 2 Press the MENU button, then
select 3 with b/B on the control button.

MENU button

3 Select [Cleaning mode] with v/V,
then press the center of the control button.
The message After cleaning, turn camera off. Continue? appears.
4 Select [OK] with v on the control button, and press the center

of the control button.

After the image sensor vibrates for a short time, the mirror in front is lifted.
5 Detach the lens (page 19). 6 Use the blower to clean the image
sensor surface and the surrounding area.
Do not touch the image sensor with the tip of the blower. Complete the cleaning quickly. Hold the cameras face downward to prevent the dust from resettling in the camera. When cleaning the image sensor, do not put the tip of a blower into the cavity beyond the mount.
7 Attach the lens and turn the camera off.
Note The camera starts beeping if the battery pack becomes low during cleaning. Stop cleaning immediately and turn the camera off.
Identifying parts and screen indicators
See the pages in parentheses for details of operation.

Front side

A Shutter button (48) B Power switch (23) C Control dial (62, 113) D Self-timer lamp (90) E Lens contacts* F Remote sensor G Mirror* H Mount I Built-in flash* (75) J

D Display Indication Remaining battery (16) Image quality (109)
Image size (108)/Aspect ratio (108) Memory card (20) 100 Remaining number of recordable images (27)
LCD monitor (Standard Display)
See pages in parentheses for details of operation. In AUTO or Scene Selection mode In P/A/S/M mode
Display P A S M Mode dial (48 68)
Indication Focus mode (72) AF area (73)

1/125 F5.6 +2.0

Metering mode (81) Shutter speed (63) Aperture (61) Exposure (79) SteadyShot (46) AWB White balance (Auto, Preset, Custom, Color temperature, Color filter) (83) D-Range Optimizer (86) Creative Style (86)
B Display Indication Flash mode (75)/Red-eye reduction (77) Exposure compensation (79) Flash compensation (80) EV scale (66, 92) ISO AUTO ISO sensitivity (82) Drive mode (89) 7500K G9
C Display Indication Remaining battery (16) Image quality (109)

Viewfinder

A Display Indication AF area (73) Shooting area for aspect ratio 16:9 (108) B Display Indication Flash compensation (80) Flash charging (75) WL Wireless flash (78) High-speed sync* Manual focus (74) z 125 5.Focus Shutter speed (63) Aperture (61) EV scale (66, 92) Shooting unavailable warning (89) Camera shake warning (46) SteadyShot scale (46) Aspect ratio 16:9 (108)
* When using the HVL-F58AM/HVLF42AM Flash (sold separately), you can shoot with the High-speed sync feature at any shutter speed. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the flash.
Selecting a function/setting
You can select a function for shooting or playback from the menu list. To display the menu list, press the control button, Fn (Function) button, or MENU button. Example: When the Fn button is pressed.
From the menu list, use the control button to move the cursor to the setting of your choice and execute the selection. : Press v/V/b/B on the control button to move the cursor. z: Press the center button to execute the selection. In this Instruction Manual, the process of selecting a function with the control button from the menu list is described as follows:

the shutter speed, and while pressing the button, rotate the control dial to adjust the aperture.
You can select the item the control dial adjusts (shutter speed or aperture) with [Ctrl dial setup] (page 113).

button Shutter speed

3 Shoot the image after the

exposure is set.

Toward +: Images become brighter. Toward : Images become darker. : Metered Manual

Exposure value

Notes The (Camera shake warning) indicator is not indicated in manual exposure mode. When the mode dial is set to M, the ISO setting [AUTO] is set to [100]. In M mode, the ISO setting [AUTO] is not available. Set the ISO sensitivity as necessary (page 82). Set the flash mode to (Fill-flash) when you shoot with the flash (page 75). However, the flash range differs according to the aperture value. When you shoot with the flash, check the flash range (page 77).
The EV scale in M mode You can confirm the exposure value on the EV scale on the Standard Display or on the screen of the viewfinder.
The b B arrow appears if the set exposure is beyond the range of the EV scale. The arrow starts flashing if the difference becomes greater.
Standard value Viewfinder

Standard value

Shooting trails with long exposure (BULB)
This mode is suitable for z Shooting trails of light, such as fireworks. z Shooting trails of stars.
1 Set the mode dial to M. 2 Rotate the control dial to the left
until [BULB] is indicated.

3 While pressing the

button, rotate the control dial to adjust the aperture (F-number).

button

4 Press the shutter button halfway down to adjust the focus. 5 Press and hold the shutter button for the duration of the

shooting.

As long as the shutter button is pressed, the shutter remains open.
Use a tripod. Set the focus to infinity in manual focus mode when shooting fireworks, etc. Use the wireless Remote Commander (sold separately) (page 93). Pressing the SHUTTER button on the Remote Commander triggers BULB shooting and pressing it again stops BULB shooting. You do not need to press and hold the SHUTTER button on the Remote Commander.
Notes When using a tripod, turn off the SteadyShot function (page 46). The longer the exposure time, the more conspicuous the noise on the image. After shooting, noise reduction (Long exp.NR) will be done for the same amount of time that the shutter was open. You cannot do any further shooting during the reduction.

Using the shooting function
Selecting the focus method
There are two methods for adjusting the focus: autofocus and manual focus. Depending on the lens, the method for switching between the auto focus and manual focus is different.
The type of lens The switch to be used The lens is Lens (Always set equipped with a the focus mode focus mode switch switch on the camera to AF.) The lens is not Camera equipped with a focus mode switch To switch to auto focus Set the focus mode switch on the lens to AF. To switch to manual focus Set the focus mode switch on the lens to MF.
Set the focus mode Set the focus mode switch on the camera switch on the camera to AF. to MF.

Using autofocus

1 Set the focus mode switch on the

camera to AF.

2 When the lens is equipped with
the focus mode switch, set it to AF.
3 Look into the viewfinder.
The subject inside the focus area comes into focus automatically (Eye-Start AF).
4 Press the shutter button halfway
down to check the focus and shoot the image.
When the focus is confirmed, the focus indicator changes to z or (below). The sensor used for focusing in the AF area illuminated in red (page 73).

Focus area sensor

Focus area Focus indicator

Shooting technique

To select the area used for focusing, set up [AF area] (page 73). Focus indicator
Focus indicator z lit lit lit z flashing Status Focus locked. Ready to shoot. Focus is confirmed. Focal point moves following a moving subject. Ready to shoot. Still focusing. You cannot release the shutter. Cannot focus. The shutter is locked.
Subjects that may require special focusing Using the autofocus, it is hard to focus on the following subjects. In such cases, use the focus lock shooting feature (page 71) or manual focus (page 74). A subject that is low in contrast, such as blue sky or a white wall. Two subjects at different distances overlapping in the AF area. A subject that is composed of repeating patterns, such as the facade of a building. A subject that is very bright or glittering, such as the sun, the body of an automobile, or the surface of water. Ambient light is not sufficient.

on the control button t (Self-timer) t Select the desired setting
The number after is the number of seconds that is currently selected. Select to use the continuous selftimer.
When the self-timer is activated, audio signals and the self-timer lamp indicate the condition. The self-timer lamp flashes quickly and the audio signal sounds quickly right before the shooting.
To cancel the self-timer Press on the control button.
Note When you press the shutter button without looking into the viewfinder, use the eyepiece cover (page 26).
Shooting images with the exposure shifted (Exposure bracket)

Base exposure

direction

+ direction

Bracket shooting allows you to shoot several images, each with different degrees of exposure. This camera is equipped with an auto bracket function. Specify the value of deviation (steps) from the base exposure, and the camera shoots while automatically shifting the exposure. You can choose an image that has the brightness you like after shooting is finished. When the flash is fired, flash bracket shooting is used to shift the amount of flash light. To shoot, press the shutter button shot by shot.
on the control button t (Bracket: Cont.) t Select the desired bracket step
The base exposure is set at the first shot in the bracket.
* (Bracket: Cont.) Shoots three images with the exposure shifted by a selected step. Press and hold the shutter button until the recording stops. When the flash is fired, press the shutter button shot by shot. is the step currently selected.

* _ EV displayed with

Notes When the mode dial is set to M, the exposure is shifted by adjusting the shutter speed. When you adjust the exposure, the exposure is shifted based on the compensated value. The bracket cannot be used when the recording mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection.
The EV scale in bracket shooting
Ambient light* bracket 0.3 steps, three shots Exposure compensation 0 LCD monitor (Standard Display) Shown in the top row. Viewfinder Shown in the bottom row. Flash bracket 0.7 steps, three shots Flash compensation 1.0
* Ambient light: Any light other than the flash light that shines on the scene for an extended period of time, such as natural light, a light bulb, or a fluorescent light. In bracket shooting, the same number of indices as the number of recordable images is displayed on the EV scale. However, in flash bracket shooting, the indices are not displayed in the viewfinder. When the bracket shooting starts, the indices that indicate already recorded images start to disappear one by one. If the shutter button is pressed halfway down and released, br 1 appears. Fbr 1 appears for the flash bracket. When flash bracket shooting starts, it indicates what number the next frame is, for instance, Fbr 2, Fbr 3.

Shooting with the Remote Commander
You can shoot using the SHUTTER and 2SEC (the shutter is released after 2 seconds) buttons on the RMT-DSLR1 Wireless Remote Commander (sold separately). Also, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the Wireless Remote Commander.
on the control button t (Remote Commander)
2 Focus on the subject, point the transmitter of the Remote
Commander to the remote sensor, and shoot the image.
Note Use the eyepiece cover (page 26).
Using the viewing function

Playing back images

The last recorded image is displayed on the LCD monitor.
2 Select an image with b/B on the control button.
To return to the shooting mode Press the button again. To switch the recording data display Press DISP on the control button. Each time you press DISP on the control button, the screen changes as follows.

With recording data

Histogram display

Without recording data

To select the orientation when playing back an image recorded in the portrait position
1 t [PlaybackDisplay] t Select the
Note When you play back the image on a TV or a computer, the image will be displayed in the portrait position even if [Manual rotate] is selected.

Rotating an image

1 Fn button t [Rotate] 2 Press the center of the control button.
The image is rotated counter-clockwise. When you want to do another rotation, repeat step 2. Once you rotate the image, the image is played back in the rotated position, even if you turn off the power.
To return to the normal playback screen Press the button.
Note When you copy rotated images to a computer, PMB contained on the CD-ROM (supplied) can display the rotated images correctly. However, the images may not be rotated depending on the software.

Enlarging images

An image can be enlarged for closer examination. This is convenient to check the focus condition of a recorded image.
1 Display the image you want to
enlarge, then press the button.
2 Zoom the image in or out with the
3 Select the portion you want to enlarge with v/V/b/B on the
To cancel the enlarged playback Press the button so that the image returns to the normal size. Scaling range The scaling range is as follows.
Image size L M S Scaling range Approx. 1.Approx. 1.1 9.1 Approx. 1.1 6.1
Switching to the display of the image list
Fn button t [Image Index] t Select the desired number of images to be displayed
The screen changes to the image index screen. To return to the single-image screen Press the center of the control button when you select the desired image. To select a folder 1 Select the folder bar with b/B on the control button, then press the center. 2 Select the desired folder with v/V, then press the center.

Items Eye-Start AF (71) Ctrl dial setup (113) Red eye reduc. (77) Auto review (116) Auto off w/ VF (117) Reset to On Shutter speed Off 2 sec On
Items Specify Printing Date imprint (139) Slide show Interval (97) Slide show Repeat (97) PlaybackDisplay (94) Reset to Off 3 sec Off Auto rotate
Items LCD brightness (116) Power save (114) CTRL FOR HDMI (106) Display Color (114) Help Guide disp. (114) File number (110) Folder name (110) USB connection (122, 138) Audio signals (114) Reset to sec On White On Series Standard form Mass Storage On
Viewing images on a computer
Copying images to your computer
This section describes how to copy images in a memory card to a computer connected using a USB cable.
Recommended computer environment
The following environment is recommended for a computer connected to the camera to import images. x Windows OS (pre-installed): Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional SP4/ Windows XP*1 SP3/Windows Vista*2 SP1 Operation is not assured in an environment based on an upgrade of the operating systems described above or in a multi-boot environment. *1 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported. *2 Starter (Edition) is not supported. USB jack: Provided as standard x Macintosh OS (pre-installed): Mac OS X (v10.1.3 v10.5) USB jack: Provided as standard
Notes on connecting your camera to a computer Operations are not guaranteed for all the recommended computer environments mentioned above. If you connect two or more USB devices to a single computer at the same time, some devices, including your camera, may not operate, depending on the types of USB devices you are using. Operations are not guaranteed when using a USB hub or an extension cable. Connecting your camera using a USB interface that is compatible with Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 compliant) allows advanced transfer (high speed transfer) as this camera is compatible with Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 compliant). When your computer resumes from a suspend or sleep mode, communication between your camera and your computer may not recover at the same time.
Stage 1: Connecting the camera and your computer
1 Insert a memory card with recorded images into the camera. 2 Select the type of memory card you want to copy images from
using the memory card switch.
3 Insert the sufficiently charged battery pack in the camera, or
connect the camera to a wall outlet (wall socket) with the AC Adaptor (sold separately).

Notes You may be unable to play back some images depending on the image size. When an image file has been processed by a computer or when the image file was recorded using a model other than that of your camera, playback on your camera is not guaranteed. When there is no folder, first create a folder with your camera (page 111) and then copy the image file.

Using the software

To utilize images recorded with the camera, the following software is provided: Sony Image Data Suite Image Data Converter SR Image Data Lightbox SR Sony Picture Utility PMB (Picture Motion Browser)
Note PMB is not compatible with Macintosh computers.
Recommended computer environment x Windows Recommended environment for using Image Data Converter SR Ver.3/ Image Data Lightbox SR OS (pre-installed): Microsoft Windows XP*1 SP3/Windows Vista*2 SP1 *1 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported. *2 Starter (Edition) is not supported. CPU/Memory: Pentium 4 or faster is recommended, RAM 1 GB or more is recommended. Display: dots or more Viewing images on a computer Recommended environment for using PMB OS (pre-installed): Microsoft Windows XP*1 SP3/Windows Vista*2 SP1 *1 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported. *2 Starter (Edition) is not supported. CPU/Memory: Pentium III 500 MHz or faster, 256 MB of RAM or more (Recommended: Pentium III 800 MHz or faster and 512 MB of RAM or more) Hard Disk: Disk space required for installation500 MB or more Display: dots or more
x Macintosh Recommended environment for using Image Data Converter SR Ver.3/ Image Data Lightbox SR OS (pre-installed): Mac OS X (v10.4/v10.5) CPU: Power PC G4/G5 series (1.0 GHz or faster is recommended)/Intel Core Solo/Core Duo/Core 2 Duo or faster Memory: 1 GB or more is recommended. Display: dots or more

Installing the software

x Windows Log on as Administrator.
1 Turn on your computer, and insert
the CD-ROM (supplied) into the CD-ROM drive.
The installation menu screen appears. If it does not appear, double-click [Computer] (For Windows XP: [My Computer]) t (SONYPICTUTIL) t [Install.exe]. Under Windows Vista, the AutoPlay screen may appear. Select Run Install.exe and follow the instructions that appear on the screen to proceed with the installation.

2 Click [Install].

Verify that both Sony Image Data Suite and Sony Picture Utility are checked and follow the instructions on the screen.
3 Remove the CD-ROM after the installation is complete.
The following software is installed and shortcut icons appear on the desktop. Sony Image Data Suite Image Data Converter SR Image Data Lightbox SR Sony Picture Utility PMB PMB Guide
x Macintosh Log on as Administrator.
1 Turn on your Macintosh computer, and insert the CD-ROM
(supplied) into the CD-ROM drive.

2 Double-click the CD-ROM icon. 3 Copy the [IDS_INST.pkg] file in the [MAC] folder to the hard

disk icon.

4 Double-click the [IDS_INST.pkg] file in the copy-to folder.
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
Note When the restart confirmation message appears, restart the computer following the instructions on the screen.
Using Image Data Converter SR
Note If you save an image as RAW data, the image is saved in the ARW2.1 format.
With Image Data Converter SR you can: Edit images recorded in RAW format with various corrections, such as tone curve, and sharpness. Adjust images with white balance, exposure, and creative style, etc. Save the images displayed and edited on a computer. You can either save the image as RAW format or save it in the general file format. For details on Image Data Converter SR, refer to Help. To start Help, click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Help] t [Image Data Converter SR Ver.3]. To start up/exit Image Data Converter SR x Windows Double-click the shortcut of Image Data Converter SR Ver.3 on the desktop. When starting up from the Start menu, click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Image Data Converter SR Ver.3]. To exit, click the button on the upper-right corner of the screen. x Macintosh Double-click [Image Data Converter SR Ver.3] in the [Sony Image Data Suite] folder from the [Applications] folder. To exit, click a quit item from the [IDC SR] menu.
Using Image Data Lightbox SR
With Image Data Lightbox SR you can: Display and compare RAW/JPEG images recorded with this camera. Rate the images on a scale of five. Set color labels and so on. Display an image with Image Data Converter SR and make adjustments to it. For details on Image Data Lightbox SR, refer to Help.
To start Help from the Start menu, click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Help] t [Image Data Lightbox SR]. To start up/exit Image Data Lightbox SR x Windows Double-click [Image Data Lightbox SR] on the desktop. When starting up from the Start menu, click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Image Data Lightbox SR]. To exit, click the button on the upper-right corner of the screen. The dialogue used for saving a collection appears. x Macintosh Double-click [Image Data Lightbox SR] in the [Sony Image Data Suite] folder from the [Applications] folder. To exit, click a quit item from the [Image Data Lightbox SR] menu.

Using PMB

With PMB you can: Import images shot with the camera and display them on the computer. Organize images on the computer on a calendar by shooting date to view them. Retouch (Red Eye Correction, etc.), print, and send still images as e-mail attachments, change the shooting date and more. Print or save still images with the date. Create a data disc using a CD burner drive or DVD burner drive. For details on PMB, refer to PMB Guide. To start PMB Guide, double-click the shortcut of (PMB Guide) on the desktop. When starting up from the start menu, click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Picture Utility] t [Help] t [PMB Guide].

Cannot turn on the camera.
Install the battery pack correctly (page 15). The battery pack is discharged. Install a charged battery pack (page 12). The battery pack is dead (page 16). Replace it with a new one.
The power turns off suddenly.
If you do not operate the camera for given period of time, the camera turns to power saving mode and nearly shuts down. To cancel the power save, operate the camera, such as pressing the shutter button halfway down (page 114).
The CHARGE lamp flashes when charging the battery pack.
Remove and re-insert the battery pack correctly. Charge the battery pack under the suitable temperatures between 10 and 30C (50 and 86F).
Nothing is displayed on the LCD monitor when the power is turned on.
In the default setting, the LCD monitor will turn off if no operation is registered for more than 10 seconds to minimize the battery consumption.
The image is not clear in the viewfinder.
Adjust the diopter scale properly using the diopter-adjustment dial (page 24).
The image has not been recorded.
A memory card is not inserted.
The shutter does not release.
You are using a memory card with a write-protect switch, and the switch is set to the LOCK position. Set the switch to the recording position. The position of the memory card switch is wrong. Set it to the correct position (page 20). Check the free capacity of the memory card (page 27). If it is full, do one of the following: Delete unnecessary images (page 102). Change the memory card. You cannot record images while charging the built-in flash (page 75). The shutter cannot be released when the subject is out of focus. The lens is not attached properly. Attach the lens properly (page 18). When an astronomical telescope, etc., is attached to the camera, set the recording mode to M and do your shooting.
The subject may require special focusing (page 70). Use the focus-lock or manual focus function (pages 71, 74).
Recording takes a long time.
The noise reduction function is turned on (page 112). This is not a malfunction. You are shooting in RAW mode (page 109). Since the RAW data file is large, the RAW mode shooting may take time.
The image is out of focus.
The subject is too close. Check the minimum focal distance of the lens. You are shooting in manual focus mode, set the focus mode lever to AF (autofocus) (page 69). When the focus mode switch is equipped with the lens, set it to AF. Ambient light is insufficient.
Eye-Start AF does not work.
Set [Eye-Start AF] to [On] (page 71). Press the shutter button halfway down.

The flash does not work.

The flash mode is set to [Autoflash]. If you want to make sure the flash fires without fail, set the flash mode to [Fill-flash] (page 75).

PictBridge compliant printer
For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the printer or consult with the manufacturer of the printer. A connection cannot be established.
The camera cannot be connected directly to a printer that is not compliant with the PictBridge standard. Consult the printer manufacturer as to whether the printer is compliant with PictBridge or not. Set [USB connection] to [PTP] (page 137). Disconnect and connect the USB cable again. If an error message is indicated on the printer, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the printer.

Cannot print images.

Check that the camera and the printer are properly connected using the USB cable. RAW images cannot be printed. Images shot using cameras other than this camera or images modified with a computer may not be printed.
---- -- -- is printed on the date-inserted part of the image.
Images that do not have the recording data/time information cannot be printed with the date inserted. Set [Date imprint] to [Off] and print the image again (page 139).
Cannot print the image at the size selected.
Disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it whenever you change the paper size after the printer has been connected to the camera. The print setting of the camera differs from that of the printer. Change the setting of either the camera (page 139) or the printer.
Cannot operate the camera after canceling printing.
Wait for a while as the printer is carrying out the cancellation. It may take some time depending on the printer.

The lens gets fogged.

Moisture condensation has occurred. Turn off the camera and leave it for about an hour before using it (page 156).
The message Set date and time? appears when you turn on the camera.
The camera has been left unused for sometime with a low battery or no battery pack. Charge the battery pack and set the date again (pages 23, 156). If the date setting is lost every time the battery pack is charged, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.
The number of recordable images does not decrease or decreases two at a time.