Sony A200: Entry DSLR Roundup

Sony A200 Features

The Sony press materials do a good job of describing the A200 features if you can wade through the superlatives that are typical of any manufacturers' marketing speak. The features list highlights the same features we would emphasize in our description. The Field Notes on page 6 provide the assessment of how useful the features actually proved to be in real world shooting.

The Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A200 camera is perfectly positioned to carry a new generation of family photographers into the creative world of DSLR performance - including superb 10.2MP imaging, high-sensitivity shooting, and Super SteadyShot in-camera IS that reduces blur with a brilliant array of Sony, Carl Zeiss and Minolta a-mount lenses. It's also fast, lightweight and incredibly easy to operate, with a large 2.7" LCD screen, simple Function Guide menu display and Creative Style settings to fine-tune camera performance - plus a powerful Bionz processing engine that speeds camera response.

10.2MP 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, minimize noise more effectively and provide greater detail for making big prints or cropping in tight on your subject.

Expanded ISO Sensitivity

Broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables the α (alpha) DSLRA200 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

A high-performance sensor detects vibrations and the IS system automatically compensates. Because IS is built into the α (alpha) DSLR-A200, every lens benefits - and with an advantage of from 2.5 to 3.5 stops, you can shoot effectively at higher shutter speeds even in very low light with minimum blur from shaky hands or fast-moving subjects.

Bionz Image Processor

The "brain" of the α (alpha) DSLR-A200 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 2-channel data transfer from CCD to processor, your camera can also respond faster.

Dynamic Range Optimizer

To improve results with backlit subjects and recover details hidden in shadows or lost in glare, the α (alpha) DSLR-A200 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 α (alpha) DSLR-A200 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

In Auto or some scene selection modes, the camera flash automatically pops up and fires when needed to help you shoot more effectively. 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 don't start focusing until the shutter button is half-pressed, the Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A200 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.

Flexible, Accurate Exposure Control

A 40-segment honeycomb sensing system provides multi-pattern measuring for superior exposure control accuracy - and you can also select center-weighted or spot metering modes. You'll also have six preset White Balance control settings and RGB Histogram display to check color balance.

Scene Selection Modes

Along with auto exposure, the α (alpha) DSLR-A200 gives you scene selection modes to optimize camera performance for Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset and Night Portrait/Night View situations.

Creative Style Settings

To express your creativity and personal taste, you can adjust contrast, saturation and sharpness settings for any of eight finishing styles - including Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, B&W and Adobe RGB modes.

2.7" Clear Photo LCD Screen

A large built-in screen with anti-reflective coating makes it easy to read camera setup menus even in bright sunlight and improves image quality when you check your shots.

Additional Features

Index and Slide Show Display
Function Guide Display
Continuous Burst Mode at 3 Frames Per Second
Stamina Battery Power
High-Capacity Media Options
Advanced Lenses and Accessories