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-A300/A350

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

2008 Sony Corporation

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-A300/A350 Serial No. __________________________

WARNING

To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
For Customers in the U.S.A.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons. This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

For your protection, please read these safety instructions completely before operating the appliance, and keep this manual for future reference. Carefully observe all warnings, precautions and instructions on the appliance, or the one described in the operating instructions and adhere to them.

Attachments

Do not use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer, as they may cause hazards.

Cleaning

Unplug the set from the wall outlet before cleaning or polishing it. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a cloth lightly dampened with water for cleaning the exterior of the set.

Power Sources

This set should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of electrical power supplied to your home, consult your dealer or local power company. For those sets designed to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.

Installation

Water and Moisture
Do not use power-line operated sets near water for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.

Polarization

This set may be equipped with a polarized ac power cord plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to have a suitable outlet installed. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug by forcing it in.

Power-Cord Protection

Route the power cord so that it is not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to the plugs, receptacles, and the point where the cord exits from the appliance.

Accessories

Do not place the set on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The set may fall, causing serious injury to a child or an adult, and serious damage to the set. Use only a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer.

Overloading

Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords or convenience receptacles beyond their capacity, since this can result in fire or electric shock.

Ventilation

The slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for necessary ventilation. To ensure reliable operation of the set, and to protect it from overheating, these slots and openings must never be blocked or covered. Never cover the slots and openings with a cloth or other materials.

Object and Liquid Entry

Never push objects of any kind into the set through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the set.

Face side with a label

3 Close the memory card cover.
To remove the memory card Check that the access lamp is not lit, then open the memory card cover, push down the memory card eject lever. After the card is ejected a little, pull out the memory card.

Access lamp

Memory card eject lever
Notes on using memory cards
The memory card may be hot just after it has been used for a long time. Be careful when you handle it. When the access lamp is lit, do not remove the memory card or the battery pack, or turn off the power. The data may be corrupted. Data may be damaged if you place the memory card near stronglymagnetized material or use the memory card in a static-prone or electrically noisy environment. We recommend backing up important data, such as to a hard disk of a computer. When you carry or store the memory card, put it in the case supplied with it. Do not expose the memory card to water. Do not touch the terminal section of the memory card with your hand or a metal object. On the CF card/Microdrive Be sure to format the CF card/Microdrive using this camera when you use it for the first time. Do not remove the label of a CF card/Microdrive or attach a new label over the label. Do not press on the label strongly.
Notes on use of the Microdrive A Microdrive is a compact and lightweight hard disk drive that complies with CompactFlash Type II.
The Microdrive is a compact hard disk drive. Since the Microdrive is a rotating disk, the Microdrive is not strong enough to resist vibration and shock compared to a memory card. Be sure not to transmit vibration or shock to the Microdrive during playback or shooting. Note that the use of the Microdrive under 5C (41F) may bring performance degradation. Operating temperature range when using the Microdrive: 5 to 40C (41 to 104F) Note that the Microdrive cannot be used under low atmospheric pressure (above meters above sea-level). Do not write on the label.
On the Memory Stick Memory Stick: You cannot use the Memory Stick with your camera.
Memory Stick Duo: You can use the Memory Stick Duo with your camera by inserting it in a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor for CompactFlash slot (not supplied). Memory Stick PRO Duo or Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo with a capacity up to 8 GB have been confirmed to operate properly with this camera. A Memory Stick Duo formatted with a computer is not guaranteed to operate with this camera. Data read/write speeds differ depending on the combination of the Memory Stick Duo and the equipment used.
Notes on using a Memory Stick Duo Do not press down hard when you write down on the memo area. Do not attach a label on the Memory Stick Duo itself. Do not strike, bend or drop the Memory Stick Duo. Do not disassemble or modify the Memory Stick Duo. Do not leave the Memory Stick Duo within the reach of small children. They might accidentally swallow it.

Do not use or store the Memory Stick Duo under the following conditions: High temperature locations such as the hot interior of a car parked in direct sunlight. Locations exposed to direct sunlight. Humid locations or locations with corrosive substances present.

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 controller.
3 Select each item with b/B and
set the numeric value with v/V.
4 Repeat step 3 to set other items, then press the center of the

controller.

When changing the sequence of [YYYY/MM/DD], first select [YYYY/ MM/DD] with b/B, then change it with v/V.
5 Verify that [OK] is selected, then press the center of the
To cancel the date/time setting operation Press the MENU button.
Using the accessories supplied
This section describes how to use the shoulder strap and the eyepiece cover. The other accessories are described in the following pages. Rechargeable battery pack (page 14) Battery charger, Power cord (mains lead) (page 14) Eyecup (page 68) USB cable (pages 128, 144) Video cable (page 112) CD-ROM (page 136)
Attaching the shoulder strap
Attach the both ends of the strap on the camera.
You can also attach the eyepiece cover (below) on the strap. Eyepiece cover

Using the eyepiece cover

You can prevent light from entering through the viewfinder and affecting the exposure. When the shutter is released without the use of the viewfinder, 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.
Insert your fingers under the eyecup, and slide it upward.
3 Slide the eyepiece cover over the

Shooting with program auto
This mode is suitable to z Use the automatic exposure, while keeping the custom settings for ISO sensitivity, Creative Style, D-Range optimizer, etc.
z Keep the exposure compensation
measured by the camera, but change the combination of shutter speed and aperture depending on the subject (Program shift).
1 Set the mode dial to P. 2 Set the shooting functions to your desired settings (pages 72 to
The settings will be stored until you reset the settings. To fire the flash, press the button.
3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.

To use Program shift

1 Press the shutter button halfway
down to adjust the focus.
The correct exposure (shutter speed and aperture value) determined by the camera is indicated.
Aperture value Shutter speed
2 Rotate the control dial to select
your desired combination while the focus is achieved.
The recording mode indicator is switched to PS (Shutter speed priority program shift), and the shutter speed and aperture value are changed. Switch to PA (Aperture priority program shift) when you want to select a combination by reference to the aperture value (page 120).
Aperture value Shutter speed PS

3 Shoot the subject.

Notes If you turn the camera off and on or a certain period of time is passed, Program shift PS or PA is canceled and returned to P. When Program Shift PS is selected, the (Camera shake warning) indicator is not displayed.
Shooting by controlling the blur of the background (Aperture priority)
This mode is suitable to z Put 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 Shoot 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 also focused on. You cannot check the blurring of an image in the viewfinder. Check the recorded image and adjust the aperture.

Aperture (F-number)

3 Adjust the focus and shoot the

subject.

The shutter speed is automatically adjusted to obtain correct exposure. When the camera judges that the proper exposure is not obtained with the selected aperture value, the shutter speed flashes. In such cases, adjust the aperture again.

Shutter speed

Using the shooting function
Selecting the focus method
There are two methods for adjusting the focus: autofocus and manual focus.

Using autofocus

1 Set the focus mode switch to AF.
2 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 (page 72). The green frames are indicated at an area where the focus has been confirmed.

Focus area sensor

Focus area Focus indicator
To select the area used for focusing, set up [AF area] (page 75). 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 73) or manual focus (page 75). 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. To measure the exact distance to the subject The mark located on the top of the camera shows the location of the image sensor*. When you measure the exact distance between the camera and the subject, refer to the position of the horizontal line. * The image sensor is the part of the camera that acts as the film.
Note If the subject is closer than the minimum shooting distance of the attached lens, the focus cannot be confirmed. Make sure you put enough distance between the subject and the camera.
Shooting with your desired composition (Focus-lock)
1 Place the subject within the AF
area and press the shutter button halfway down.
2 Keep the shutter button halfway
down, and put the subject back in the original position to recompose the shot.
3 Press the shutter button fully down to take the picture.
Selecting the focus method to suit the movement of the subject (Autofocus mode)
Fn button t [Autofocus mode] t Select the desired setting
(Single-shot AF) The camera focuses on and the focus is locked when you press the shutter button halfway down.

(Automatic AF) When you press and hold the shutter button, if the subject is motionless, the focus is locked and if the subject is in motion, the camera continues to focus. (Continuous AF) The camera continues to focus while the shutter button is pressed and held halfway down. The audio signals will not sound when the subject is in focus.

Use Use

(Single-shot AF) when the subject is motionless. (Continuous AF) when the subject is in motion.
Selecting the focus area (AF area)
Select the desired AF are to suit the shooting conditions or your preference. The green frames are indicated at an area where the focus has been confirmed. The area used for focusing is illuminated briefly in viewfinder mode.

AF area

Fn button t [AF area] t Select the desired setting
(Wide) The camera determines which of the nine AF areas is used in focusing within the AF area. If you press and hold the center of the controller, you can adjust the focus using the spot AF area. The camera uses the spot AF area exclusively. Choose the area for which you want to activate the focus from among nine areas with the controller during the shooting. To select the spot AF area, press the center of the controller.

(Spot) (Local)

Notes The AF area may not be illuminated during continuous shooting or when the shutter button is pressed all the way down without pause. The green frames that are displayed when the focus has been confirmed indicate the area used for focusing. They do not indicate the size of the area. The AF area and the frames may not be located on the same position. This is not a malfunction.
Adjusting the focus manually (Manual focus)
When it is difficult to get the proper focus in autofocus mode, you can adjust the focus manually.
1 Set the focus mode switch to MF.
2 Rotate the focusing ring of the
lens to achieve a sharp focus.

Focusing ring

Notes In the case of a subject that can be focused in autofocus mode, the z indicator lights up when the focus is confirmed. When the Wide AF area is used, the center area is used, and when the Local AF area is used, the area that is selected with the controller is used. The camera resets the focal length to (infinity) when the POWER switch is set to ON. When using a tele converter, etc., rotation of the focusing ring may not be smooth. The correct focus is not achieved if the diopter is not adjusted properly in viewfinder mode (page 68). When you turn the camera off and then on again, or change the recording mode with the mode dial set to AUTO or Scene Selection, AF (Autofocus) is automatically selected regardless of the position of the focus mode switch.

Zooming in in one step

You can zoom in to the center of an image using the smart teleconverter (Digital zoom) and record the image.

1 Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to

LIVE VIEW.

2 Press the

button.

Each time you press the button, the zoom scaling changes as follows: Off t Approx. 1.4 t Approx. 2.
The image size is automatically set to the following:
Zoom scaling Approx. 1.4 Approx. 2 Image size M* S*
* The number of pixels in the image size selected here is different from that of the image size selected in normal mode. M: pixels (DSLR-A350)/ pixels (DSLR-A300) S: pixels (DSLR-A350)/ pixels (DSLR-A300)
Notes When the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch is set to OVF, the smart teleconverter is unavailable. When the smart teleconverter is available (When in AF mode), [AF area] is set to (Spot). When the smart teleconverter is available, [Metering mode] is set to (Multi segment).
When [Quality] is set to teleconverter is unavailable.

(RAW) or

(RAW & JPEG), the smart

Using the flash

In a dark location, using the flash allows you to shoot the subject brightly, and it also helps to prevent camera shake. When shooting into the sun, you can use the flash to shoot a bright image of the backlit subject.

1 Press the

The flash pops up. In AUTO or Scene Selection mode, the flash automatically pops up if the amount of light is insufficient or the subject is backlit. The built-in flash does not pop up even if you press the button.
2 After the flash charging is
completed, shoot the subject.
Flashing: The flash is being charged. When the indicator flashes, you cannot release the shutter. Lit: The flash has been charged and is ready to fire. When you press the shutter button halfway down under dark lighting in autofocus mode, the flash may be fired to help easily focus a subject (AF illuminator).
(Flash charging) indicator
The lens or lens hood may block the light of the flash and a shadow may appear on the image. Remove the lens hood. Shoot the subject at a distance of 1 m (3.3 feet) or greater.
Notes Do not hold the camera by grabbing the flash emitter. Do not use the camera while the flash is not fully pulled up.
Shooting conditions required to prevent shade from appearing on an image vary, depending on the lens.
The flash range The built-in flash range depends on the ISO sensitivity and aperture value. Refer to the following table.
Aperture F2.8 F4.0 F5.4.3 m (3.feet) 1 2.1 m (3.3 6.9 feet) m (3.3 9.8 feet) 1 4.3 m (3.feet) ISO AUTO 1.4 8.6 m (4.m (3.setting feet) feet) 1 4.3 m (3.feet) m (3.feet) m (3.3 9.8 feet) 1 4.3 m (3.feet)
1.4 8.6 m (4.m (3.feet) feet) m (6.feet)
1.4 8.6 m (4.m (3.feet) feet) 1.4 8.6 m (4.feet)
2.m (9.m (6.feet) feet) m (feet)

2.m (9.m (6.feet) feet)

The AF illuminator AF illuminator does not operate when [Autofocus mode] is set to (Continuous AF) or the subject is moving in (Automatic AF). (The or indicator lights.) The AF illuminator may not operate with focal lengths of 300 mm or longer. When an external flash is attached, the AF illuminator of the external flash is used. To deactivate the AF illuminator

Adjust in the direction Base exposure Adjust in the + direction
The exposure compensation screen is displayed in the viewfinder mode.
2 Adjust the exposure with the
Toward + (over): Brightens an image. Toward (under): Darkens an image.

Standard exposure

Adjust the compensation level by checking the recorded image. Using bracket shooting, you can shoot multiple images with the exposure shifted to the plus or minus sides (page 98).
To shoot while checking the screen using the histogram A histogram is the luminance distribution that shows how many pixels of a particular brightness exist in the picture.
Number of pixels Dark Light
The exposure compensation will change the histogram accordingly. The right illustration is an example. Shooting with the exposure compensation on the positive side brightens the whole picture, making the entire histogram shift to the bright side (right side). If the exposure compensation is applied on the negative side, the histogram will shift to the other side. Both ends of the histogram show a highkey or low-key portion. It is impossible to restore these area with a computer later. Adjust the exposure if necessary and shoot again.
Notes The histogram displayed in Live view mode does not indicate the final recorded image. It indicates the condition of the image just monitored. The histogram will differ based on aperture setting, etc. The histogram differs between shooting and playback in the following situations: When firing the flash. When the subject has low intensity, such as night scenery.
Adjusting the amount of flash light (Flash compensation)
When shooting with the flash, you can adjust the amount of flash light alone, without changing the exposure compensation. You can only change the exposure of a main subject which is within the flash range.
MENU button t desired setting
1 t [Flash compens.] t Select the
Toward +: Makes the flash level higher. Toward : Makes the flash level lower.
Notes If you have adjusted the flash level, appears on the LCD monitor/in the viewfinder when the built-in flash is pulled up. When you adjust it, be careful not to forget to reset the value. The positive effect may not be visible due to the limited amount of flash light, if the subject is at or around the maximum range for the flash. If the subject is very close, the negative effect may not be visible. Exposure compensation and flash compensation Exposure compensation changes the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO sensitivity (when [AUTO] is selected) to perform the compensation. If the flash is used, the amount of flash light is also changed. However, flash compensation only changes the amount of flash light.

Setting ISO

Sensitivity to light is expressed by the ISO number (recommended exposure index). The larger the number, the higher the sensitivity.
1 Press the ISO button to display

the ISO screen.

ISO button
2 Select the desired value with v/V on the controller.
The larger the number, the higher the noise level.
Notes When ISO is set to [AUTO], ISO is automatically set as follows.
Recording mode AUTO, Scene Selection P, A, S ISO The range differs depending on the mode 100 400
The [AUTO] setting is not provided in recording mode M. If you change the recording mode to M with the [AUTO] setting, it is switched to [100]. Set the ISO according to your shooting conditions.
Adjusting the color tones (White balance)
The color tone of the subject changes depending on the characteristics of the light source. The table below shows how the color tone changes based on various light sources, compared with a subject that appears white under the sunlight.
Daylight Weather/ lighting Characteristics of light White Bluish Green-tinged Reddish Cloudy Fluorescent Incandescent
White balance is a feature that adjusts the color tone to approximate what you see. Use this feature when the color tone of the image did not come out as you expected, or when you want to change the color tone on purpose for photographic expression.
Note If the only light source available is a mercury lamp or a sodium lamp, the camera will not be able to acquire the accurate white balance because of the characteristics of the light source. Use the flash in such cases.
Adjusting the white balance to suit a specific light source (Auto/Preset white balance)
Fn button t [White balance] t Select the desired setting
When [AWB] is not selected, you can finely adjust 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) (Tungsten) (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 100). When you select [5500K] (ColorTemperature) or [00] (Color filter), you can adjust the value to the desired value (below). When you select (Custom), you can register your setting (page 93).

the controller.

Protecting all the images/canceling the protection of all the images
MENU button t all] t [OK] 1 t [Protect] t [All images] or [Cancel

Deleting images (Delete)

Once you have deleted an image, you cannot restore it. Check whether you delete the image or not beforehand.
Note Protected images cannot be deleted.
Deleting the image that is currently displayed
delete and press the button.
2 Select [Delete] with v, then press the center of the controller.
Deleting the selected images
1 t [Delete] t [Marked images]
2 Select the images you want to
delete with the controller, then press the center of the controller.
A mark appears on the selected image.

Total number

3 To delete other images, repeat step 2. 4 Press the MENU button.
5 Select [Delete] with v on the controller, then press the center

of the controller.

Deleting all the images in the folder
2 Select the folder bar with b on
3 Press the center of the controller, then select the folder you

want to delete with v/V.

4 Press the
5 Select [Delete] with v, then press the center of the controller.
Deleting all the images all at once
MENU button t 1 t [Delete] t [All images] t [Delete]
Note It may take a long time to delete a lot of images by selecting [All images]. It is recommended that you delete images on a computer or format the memory card using the camera.
Viewing images on a TV screen
1 Turn off both your camera and the
TV, and connect the camera to the TV.

1 To video input jack

Video cable

2 To the

VIDEO OUT terminal
2 Turn on the TV and switch the input.
See also the operating instructions supplied with the TV.
3 Turn on the camera, and press the
Images shot with the camera appear on the TV screen. Select the desired image with b/B on the controller. The LCD monitor on the rear of the camera does not turned on.
Controller button If you connect the camera to a Sony TV that is compatible with the PhotoTV HD feature using the supplied USB cable, you can enjoy higher quality images on the TV.
To use your camera abroad It may be necessary to switch the video signal output to match that of your TV system.

NTSC PAL

1 t [Video output] t Select the desired
Sets the video output signal to NTSC mode (e.g., for the USA, Japan). Sets the video output signal to PAL mode (e.g., for Europe).
On TV color systems If you want to view images on a TV screen, you need a TV with a video input jack and the video cable. The color system of the TV must match that of your digital still camera. Check the following lists for the TV color system of the country or region where the camera is used.
NTSC system Bahama Islands, Bolivia, Canada, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Jamaica, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Peru, Surinam, Taiwan, the Philippines, the U.S.A., Venezuela, etc. PAL system Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom, etc. PAL-M system Brazil PAL-N system Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay SECAM system Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine, etc.

[Anti-Dust]

System Charge protection coating on Low-Pass Filter and image sensor-Shift mechanism

[Image sensor]

Total pixel number of camera DSLR-A350 Approx. 000 pixels DSLR-A300 Approx. 000 pixels Effective pixel number of camera DSLR-A350 Approx. 000 pixels DSLR-A300 Approx. 000 pixels Image format DSLR-A350 23.515.7 mm (APS-C format) Interlace scan Primary Color DSLR-A300 23.615.8 mm (APS-C format) Interlace scan Primary Color ISO sensitivity (Recommended exposure index) AUTO, 100 to 3200

[Auto Focus System]

System TTL phase-detection system, CCD line sensors (9 points, 8 lines with center cross-hair sensor)
Sensitivity Range 0 to 18 EV (at ISO 100 equivalent) AF illuminator Approx. 1 to 5 m (3.3 to 16 feet)

[Live view]

Type Pentamirror tilt mechanism Image format Exclusive image sensor for Live view Metering method 1200-zone evaluative metering Metering range 2 to 17 EV (Multi segment, Center weighted, Spot) (at ISO 100 with F1.4 lens) Field of View 0.90

[Viewfinder]

Type Fixed eye-level pentaDach-mirror

[Built-In-Flash]

Flash G.No. GN 12 (in meters at ISO 100) 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)
Field of View 0.95 Magnification 0.74 with 50 mm lens at infinity, 1 m1 Eye Relief Approximately 20.8 mm from the eyepiece, 16.7 mm from the eyepiece frame at 1 diopter (1 m1)
Dioptor Adjustment 3.0 to +1.0 m1

[Recording media]

CompactFlash card (TypeI,II), Microdrive, Memory Stick Duo (With a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor for CompactFlash slot)
[Exposure] (in the viewfinder mode)
Metering Cell SPC Metering method 40-segment honeycombpattern Metering Range 2 to 20 EV (4 to 20 EV with Spot metering), (at ISO 100 with F1.4 lens) Exposure compensation 2.0 EV (1/3 EV step)

[LCD monitor]

LCD panel 6.7 cm (2.7 type) TFT drive Total number of dots (960 240) dots

[Power, general]

Used battery pack Rechargeable battery pack NP-FM500H

[Shutter]

Type Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focalplane type

[Others]

PictBridge Exif Print Compatible Compatible
Speed range 1/4000 second to 30 seconds, bulb, (1/3 EV step) Flash sync speed 1/160 second

Images are printed with both edges cut off.
Depending on your printer, the left, right, top, and bottom edges of the image may be cut off. Especially when you print an image shot with the aspect ratio set to [16:9], the lateral end of the image may be cut off. When printing images using your own printer, cancel the trimming or borderless settings. Consult the printer manufacturer as to whether the printer provides these functions or not. When having images printed at a digital print shop, ask the shop whether they can print the images without cutting off both edges.
Cannot print images with the date.
Using Picture Motion Browser, you can print images with date (page 138). This camera does not have a feature for superimposing dates on images. However, because the images shot with the camera include information on the recording date, you can print images with the date superimposed if the printer or the software can recognize Exif information. For compatibility with Exif information, consult the manufacturer of the printer or the software. When you print images at a shop, images can be printed with the date if you ask them to do so.
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 143). 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 data files 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 cannot be printed with the date inserted. Set [Date imprint] to [Off] and print the image again (page 146).
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 144) or the printer.
Cannot operate the camera after canceling printing.

Using the camera in sandy or dusty locations may cause malfunctions. If moisture condensation occurs, remove it before using the camera (page 163). Do not shake or strike the camera. In addition to malfunctions and an inability to record images, this may render the memory card unusable, or cause image data breakdown, damage or loss. Clean the flash surface before use. The heat of flash emission may cause dirt on the flash surface to become discolored or to stick to the flash surface, resulting in insufficient light emission. Keep the camera, supplied accessories, etc., out of the reach of children. The battery pack, the accessory shoe cap, etc., may be swallowed. If such a problem occurs, consult a doctor immediately.

Numerics

40-segment honeycomb pattern metering. 148 CF card.. 21 Charging battery pack. 14 Cleaning mode.. 32 Color filter.. 92 Color temperature.. 92 Compression ratio.. 115 Continuous AF.. 74 Continuous bracket.. 98 Continuous shooting. 97 Contrast.. 95 Correct exposure. 60, 62 Creative Style.. 95 Ctrl dial setup. 58, 120 Custom white balance. 93
Adobe RGB.. 95 AE lock.. 83 AEL button.. 120 AF area.. 75 AF illuminator.. 80 Ambient bracket.. 100 Amount of exposure. 56 Anti-dust function.. 32 Aperture. 56, 59 Aperture priority. 59 Aspect ratio.. 115 Audio signals.. 121 Auto off w/ VF.. 123 Auto review.. 122 Autoflash.. 79, 81 Autofocus.. 72 Autofocus mode.. 74
Date imprint.. 142 Date/Time setup.. 25, 121 Delete.. 110 Depth of field.. 56 Diopter-adjustment. 68 DPOF setup.. 141 D-Range Optimizer.. 95 Drive button. 40 Drive mode.. 97 Index
Battery pack. 16 Bracket.. 98 BULB shooting. 65
Enlarged screen. 102 EV scale. 84, 99 Exposure.. 56

Center weighted.. 89

Exposure compensation.85 Exposure lock..83 Exposure mode..56 Eyecup..27 Eyepiece cover..27 Eyepiece sensors..28 Eye-Start AF.67
Image size.. 114 Index print.. 142 Index screen.. 104 Info.disp.time.. 122 ISO sensitivity.. 90

JPEG.. 115

File number.116 Flash compensation..88 Flash control.88 Flash mode..79, 81 Flash Off.48, 81 Fn button..40 Focal length..149 Focus..72 Focus indicator..72 Focus mode..74 Focus-lock..73 Folder name..116 Format..117

DSLR-A300K

PRELIM

Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera (18-70mm kit)
For first-time DSLR users, Sonys (alpha) DSLR-A300 combines superb 10.2 MP quality with Live Preview mode that links you and your subject in a large 2.71 LCD screen for point-and-shoot simplicity. Super-quick AF response helps capture the perfect moment -- and low-light shooting benefits from high sensitivity (ISO 3200), low noise and incamera Super SteadyShot image stabilization that reduces blur with every Sony, Carl Zeiss and legacy Minolta amount lens.
10.2 MP Super HAD CCD Superb image quality gives you great DSLR shots right from the start, with a large APS-size CCD imager developed by Sony to expand dynamic range, and minimize noise more effectively for clear, sharp photos even at high sensitivity setting (up to ISO 3200). Live Preview of Your Subject The DSLR-A300s Live Preview mode links you and your subject on a large 2.LCD screen, for a familiar point-andshoot style -- with super-quick AF response and accurate exposure control to help you catch the perfect moment. In Live Preview mode, the camera bypasses the optical pentaprism mirror to create a live eye-to-eye view of loved ones, children, pets and fastchanging scenes. Tiltable 2.71 Clear Photo LCD Plus Screen A large built-in screen with 2-way angle tilt provides a sharp, clear view of your subject and tilts up or down for lowangle or high-angle monitoring in situations where you want a child-level or overhead shot. Continuous Shooting While Viewing The DSLR-A300 lets you shoot continuously at up to 3 frames per second while you see your subject in the viewfinder2 , so you never lose track of the action. In JPEG mode, you can shoot up to the limit of your flash memory card; in RAW Burst Mode you can capture up to 6 shots, with intelligent buffer management to allow more shots to be captured without waiting for the buffer to clear. Smart Teleconverter 2X Zoom At the touch of a button you can zoom in electronically on your subject, reproducing pixels on a 1:1 basis with no degradation in picture quality. One touch zooms in at 1.4X, the second touch advances to 2X zoom -- creating the 35mm equivalent of a 200mm telephoto effect with the DSLR-A300s standard 18-70mm zoom lens. Expanded ISO Sensitivity A broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables the DSLR-A300 to capture beautiful color images even in very dim light -- with High ISO Noise Reduction technology that reduces picture noise artifacts at high-sensitivity ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 settings by eliminating noise from RAW data after analog-to-digital conversion. Super SteadyShot In-Camera Image Stabilization Because image stabilization is built into the DSLR-A300, every lens benefits by an advantage of from 2.5 to 3.5 exposure steps. This allows you to shoot effectively with minimum blur even in low light without flash -- or adjust exposure control for smaller lens aperture, to increase depth of field and bring both foreground and background into sharp focus. Bionz Image Processor The brain of the (alpha) DSLR-A300 is the advanced Sony Bionz Image Processor, using hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry to enhance images with rich tonal reproduction, improved white balance and exposure control, and expanded DRange Optimizer capabilities. With 2channel data transfer from CCD to processor, your camera can also respond faster. 1200-zone Evaluative Metering5 Exposure information from the image sensor dedicated to Live View is divided into 1200 zones of luminance and RGB color information. In addition D-Range Optimizer technology contributes to judge the scene and then determine the optimum exposure to reproduce images with a more natural look. Dynamic Range Optimizer To improve results with backlit subjects and recover details hidden in shadows or lost in glare, the DSLR-A300 provides Dynamic Range Optimizer at two levels: Normal DRO, to improve detail using standard gamma curves for fast shot-to-shot response time, or Advanced DRO, to adjust dynamic range area-by-area for the greatest precision. Anti-Dust Technology Changing lenses in a DSLR can allow dust to enter the camera -- so to keep the CCD imager cleaner for better pictures, the DSLR-A300 utilizes both static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter and anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the CCD to dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off. Auto Pop-Up Flash The camera flash automatically pops up and fires when needed, to help firsttime DSLR photographers shoot more effectively. Auto Pop-up works in Auto mode and some scene selection modes; Flash is cancelled in Landscape, Sport or Sunset modes and in Flash Off position on the Exposure Mode dial. Eye-Start Autofocus System It begins precision autofocus adjustments the moment you raise the camera to your eye -- so unlike some DSLR cameras that dont start focusing until the shutter button is half-pressed, the Sony DSLR-A300 never slows down your ability to catch fast action. 9-Point Center Cross AF Sensor A fast focus motor and improved focus control help bring images into sharp definition more quickly, with predictive focus control that automatically calculates the position of a fast-moving subject. ADDITIONAL FEATURES Scene Selection Modes Creative Style Settings Index and Slide Show Display High-Resolution Thumbnails for PhotoTV HD Viewing4 Function Guide Display Stamina Battery Power High-Capacity Media Options Advanced Lenses and System Accessories

Specifications

General
Megapixel: 10.2MP Imaging Device: 10.2 (effective) APS CCD Sensor; 23.6 x 15.8 mm; RGB primary color filter

Optics/Lens

Focus: Visual Focus Confirm: Direct via Spherical Acute Matte Screen Shutter Speed: 30 1/4000 sec 52 step, Bulb Exposure Compensation: 2.0 EV, 1/3 EV Steps ISO: Auto/100/200/400/800/1600/3200 Exposure: Program Shift: Yes, Command Dial Lens Type: Interchangeable A mount

Convenience

White Balance: Auto plus 8 Modes (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Flash, Color Tempature/Color filter, Custom), each with +/-3 adjustable step. Self Timer: Yes (10 seconds, 2 seconds, Off) Red-Eye Reduction: Yes: On/ Off Burst Mode: Shooting Capacity: JPEG (L size, Fine): Until memory card is full. RAW: 6 frames. RAW + JPEG: 3 frames. Up to 3FPS; Unlimited to capacity of media (JPEG L/M/S); Maximum 3 frames (RAW + JPEG); Maximum 6 frames (RAW) Color Mode(s): Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night view, Sunset, Black & White, Adobe RGB (Except for Adobe RGB, all other color modes use the sRGB color space)
Battery Type: NP-FM500H Lithium-ion rechargeable battery Battery Capacity: 7.2V, 1600 mAh; CIPA standard: approx. 740 pictures3
Service and Warranty Information
Limited Warranty: 1 Year Parts & Labor

Processor

Bionz Engine: Yes (LSI with Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO/DRO+))

Dimensions

Weight: 1 lb., 4.5 oz (582 g) body, not including battery, lens and media Measurements: (WHD) 5 1/4" x 4" x 3" (130.8 x 98.5 x 74.7 mm)

Convenience Features

Histogram Display: Yes - RGB, playback only AF Illuminator Light: Yes, On/Off Select Multi-Pattern Measuring: 40 Segment, Center Weighted, Spot Clear RAW NR: N/A Movie Mode(s): N/A

Supplied Accessories

DT 18-70mm f3.5 Zoom lens (27 - 105 35mm eq) NP-FM500H rechargeable battery BC-VM10 battery charger Video and USB cables Shoulder strap with eyepiece cap and Remote Commander clip Body cap Software/USB Driver CD-ROM NOTE: No Memory Stick media nor adaptors are included.

Inputs and Outputs

USB Port(s): Yes, Supports USB 2.0 Hispeed Output(s): Video: Yes, NTSC/PAL Selectable

Hardware

LCD: Tiltable 2.7"1 TFT (230k pixels) LCD with Clear Photo design Viewfinder: Optical: TTL, 0.74x magification with 50mm lens at infinity; 95% coverage Microphone: No/ No

Optional Accessories

Compact Flash Card (NCFB1G) External Flash (HVL-F56AM) External Flash Unit (HVL-F42AM) M Series Lithium Battery (NP-FM500H) Vertical Grip (VG-B30AM) AC Adaptor/Charger (AC-VQ900AM)

Operating Conditions

Flash Effective Range: GN12 at ISO 100 (39 feet/ 12 meters) Flash Mode(s): Built-in Auto Pop-up: Auto, Fill-flash, Rear flash sync, Slow Sync, High Speed Sync, Wireless off camera flash (with Flash HVL-F56AM, F36AM) Color: Black
1: Viewable area, measured diagonally. 2: Continuous shooting while viewing is only available in optical viewfinder mode. 3: When using Optical Viewfinder. Actual results may vary based on product settings, usage patterns, battery and environmental conditions. 4: PhotoTVHD feature requires output via optional HDMS-S1D Digital Photo Album with select Sony BRAVIA HDTV; each sold separately. 5: Live view mode only 2008 Sony Electronics, Inc. All rights reserved. All rights reserved. Sony, the Sony logo, the logo, Bionz, BRAVIA, Clear Photo LCD Plus, Cyber-shot, Exmor, InfoLITHIUM, Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Stamina, Super HAD, and Super SteadyShot are trademarks of Sony. HDMI is a trademark of HDMI Licensing, Inc. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.
Please visit the Dealer Network for more information at www.sony.com/dn Sony Electronics Inc. 16530 Via Esprillo San Diego, CA 92127 1.800.222.7669 www.sony.com Last Updated: 01/19/2008