Combining outstanding image quality with easy-to-understand functions and navigation. Sony Australia presents its new line-up of digital single-lens reflex (D-SLR) cameras with the launch of three   (Alpha) models. Sony’s new  230,  330 and  380 DSLR cameras are elegantly designed, lightweight and more compact, delivering greater usability for first time DSLR users to capture the perfect photograph.

“Sony’s latest range of   DSLR cameras have been designed with the first-time DLSR user in mind, ensuring ease of use without compromising on renowned high quality   features,” said Maurice Satya, Product Manager for Digital SLR at Sony Australia. “Sony has challenged consumer perceptions that DSLR cameras are too difficult, bulky and heavy. By introducing a new intuitive user interface with simplified layouts and a stylish, compact and lightweight body design, Sony has now significantly lowered major consumer barriers to upgrading to a DSLR. More photography enthusiasts can benefit from full DSLR functionality and easily achieve outstanding image results to enjoy with their families, friends and colleagues.”

Weighing a mere 450g, the  230 is the world’s lightest DSLR camera with a built-in image stabilisation system in its body . The  330 and  380 models also incorporate Sony’s unique Quick AF Live View technology for quick and easy live view operation.

The 380 is equipped with a 14.2-megapixel CCD image sensor, while the  330 and  230 sport a 10.2-megapixel CCD image sensor. These large, APS-C type CCD sensors support the effective capturing of light and enable users to record superb images that are high in resolution and rich in tonal gradation. Alongside the high-speed BIONZ™ image processing engine, you can be assured of true-to-life images.

Simple, intuitive user interface for the entry-level consumer 

All of the new models feature a menu system with built-in colourful intuitive Graphic Display option and Help Guide, enabling users to effortlessly navigate through the cameras’ menus, functions and settings.

The new default ‘Graphic’ setting allows entry-level users to intuitively grasp the relationship between aperture and shutter speed, and understand the effect that each has on photographic results through simple icons and graduated scales.

The on-screen Help Guide provides explanations with shooting tips and sample photos to help new DSLR users understand and make full use of their camera. For hassle-free scene selection, the mode dial on the top of the camera also offers instant access to six Scene Selection modes.



Finally, ensuring the new  range is easier than ever to use, Sony has reduced the number of buttons exposed and consolidated the most frequently used controls on the right side of the camera to enable a quicker and easier operation with just one hand. This also allows for users of Sony’s Cyber-shot digital still cameras to easily transition to the latest   DSLR camera.

Feature packed new range ensures blur-free images
All three of the new entry-level models incorporate SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilisation, automatically countering unwanted camera shakes so users can enjoy blur-free pictures with any   lens. Additionally, the  380 and  330 are equipped with Quick AF Live View, a Sony-exclusive feature that enables users to benefit from the speed and accuracy of phase-detection autofocus, even when using the LCD screen to frame their subjects. This feature also allows for first time users to quickly capture and learn the effects of various settings on a DSLR camera to achieve that perfect photograph.

Featured on all three models is an improved D-Range Optimiser and auto white balance adjustment. Derived from technologies developed from the top-of-line  900 DSLR camera, these features, powered by the BIONZ image processor, enable photographers of all levels to capture the full range of contrast and colour in a scene with confidence.

The variable-angle 2.7 inch Clear Photo LCD on the  330 and  380 enables wider range of monitor movement, so it can now be tilted downwards by 55 degrees and upwards by 135 degrees, giving more freedom when shooting from tricky angles. A new Auto Brightness Control function improves visibility of pictures over previous models, by monitoring surround light levels and automatically boosting LCD monitor brightness. Furthermore, all three cameras also feature an exclusive Eye-Start AF function that automatically activates the autofocus when the user is looking through the viewfinder.

HDMI output and BRAVIA Sync technology
Sharing stunning DSLR photos with friends and family is easier than ever, as the new   models are the first entry-level cameras to be equipped with HDMI output, for high-quality Full HD photo display on HDTVs. All three models support PhotoTV HD, which allows playback of optimised Full HD images when connected to a compatible BRAVIA LCD TV from Sony in photo mode.

BRAVIA Sync compatibility also increases convenience for users, allowing them to use one BRAVIA LCD TV remote to control a variety of HDMI-linked Sony devices, including the new cameras.

For further ease, the new models incorporate dual memory card slots. The Memory Stick Duo slot supports high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo™ and Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™ media, including the latest Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX cards. The additional SD (Secure Digital) slot is also SDHC-compliant.

New lenses and accessories
Sony is also introducing new lenses and system accessories, including four new lenses designed for APS-C size DSLR cameras: the compact size DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM standard zoom lens; the DT 55-200mm F4-5.6 SAM telephoto zoom lens; the big aperture DT 50mm F1.8 SAM fixed focal length lens, which is well suited for portrait use; and the life size macro-capable DT 30mm F2.8 Macro SAM.

All four lenses are fitted with the new Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) for faster and quieter autofocus operation. Additionally, the new HVL-F20AM external flash unit is an easy-to-use flash that is slim enough to be connected to the camera permanently, if preferred.