Sony Alpha DSLR-A850 Instruction Manual
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Sony Alpha DSLR-A850 Instruction Manual

Α850 series digital single lens reflex camera
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Additional information on this product and
answers to frequently asked questions can be
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Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using
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vegetable oil based ink.
Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera
Instruction Manual
DSLR-A850
Preparing the camera
Before your operation
Shooting images
Using the shooting
function
Using the viewing
function
Using the menu
Viewing images on a
computer
Printing images

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Summary of Contents for Sony Alpha DSLR-A850

  • Page 1 Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website. Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera Instruction Manual DSLR-A850 Preparing the camera...
  • Page 2 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-A850 Serial No. __________________________ WARNING...

  • Page 3: 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. Power Sources This set should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the...

  • Page 4: Electric Shock

    – Never block the slots and openings by placing the set on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. – Never place the set in a confined space, such as a bookcase, or built-in cabinet, unless proper ventilation is provided. –...

  • Page 5: Read This First

    • Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire. • Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. • Be sure to charge the battery with Sony battery charger or the device that can charge the battery. • Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small children.
  • Page 6 Regulatory Information Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DSLR-A850 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...

  • Page 7: For Customers In Europe

    For Customers in Europe 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.
  • Page 8 Sony service station. 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.

  • Page 9: Notes On Using Your Camera

    Notes on using your camera 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...

  • Page 10: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS... 3 Read this first ... 5 Notes on using your camera ... 9 Preparing the Checking the accessories supplied ... 13 camera Preparing the battery pack ... 14 Attaching a lens ... 21 Inserting a memory card ... 23 Preparing the camera ...
  • Page 11 Using a flash (sold separately) ... 63 Adjusting the brightness of the image (Metering, Exposure, Setting ISO ... 72 Adjusting the color tones (White balance) ... 73 Image processing ... 77 Selecting the drive mode ... 81 Using the preview function ... 87 Registering your own settings ...
  • Page 12 Using the menu Menu function list ... 102 Viewing images Copying images to your computer ... 135 on a computer Viewing images on your computer ... 139 Using the software ... 143 Printing images Printing images by connecting the camera to a PictBridge Others Specifications ...

  • Page 13: Preparing The Camera

    Preparing the camera Checking the accessories supplied The number in parentheses indicates the number of pieces. • BC-VM10 Battery charger (1)/ Power cord (mains lead) (1) • Rechargeable battery pack NP- FM500H (1) • Remote Commander clip (1) • USB cable (1) •...

  • Page 14: Preparing The Battery Pack

    Preparing the battery pack When using the camera for the first time, be sure to charge the NP- FM500H “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (supplied). Charging the battery pack The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack can be charged even when it has not been fully depleted. It can also be used when it has not been fully charged.
  • Page 15 • We recommend charging the battery pack in an ambient temperature of between 10 to 30°C (50 to 86°F). You may not be able to efficiently charge the battery pack outside of this temperature range. Notes • Connect the battery charger to an easily accessible wall outlet (wall socket) close by. •...
  • Page 16 Representative plug of power supply cord of countries/regions around the world. A Type B Type (American (British Type) Type) The representative supply voltage and plug type are described in this chart. Depend on an area, Different type of plug and supply voltage are used. Attention: Power cord meeting demands from each country shall be used.
  • Page 17 Singapore Taiwan Thailand Vietnam Oceania Countries/regions Voltage Australia New Zealand North America Countries/regions Voltage Canada Central America Countries/regions Voltage Bahamas Costa Rica Cuba Dominican (rep) El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Jamaica Mexico Nicaragua Panama South America Countries/regions Voltage Argentina Brazil Chile Colombia Peru Venezuela...

  • Page 18: Inserting The Charged Battery Pack

    Inserting the charged battery pack While sliding the battery cover open lever, open the battery cover. Firmly insert the battery pack all the way while pressing the lock lever with the tip of the battery. Close the battery cover. To remove the battery pack Turn off the camera and slide the lock lever in the direction of the arrow.
  • Page 19 To check the remaining battery level Set the power switch to ON and check the level on the LCD monitor. The level is indicated with the percent figures, in addition to the following indicators. Battery level High What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? An “InfoLITHIUM”...
  • Page 20 • The measurement method is based on the CIPA standard. (CIPA: Camera & Imaging Products Association) • The battery capacity decreases as the number of uses increases and also over time. • The number of images that can be recorded is decreased under the following conditions: –...

  • Page 21: Attaching A Lens

    Attaching a lens Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear cap from the lens. Mount the lens by aligning the orange index marks on the lens and camera. Turn the lens clockwise until it clicks into the locked position. •...
  • Page 22 Replace the cap on the lens and attach the body cap to the camera. • Before you attach the cap, remove dust from the cap. Note on changing the lens The camera is equipped with an anti-dust function to prevent dust from landing on the image sensor.

  • Page 23: Inserting A Memory Card

    Inserting a memory card You can use a CompactFlash card (CF card), Microdrive, or “Memory Stick Duo” media as a memory card. Open the memory card cover. Insert a memory card (sold separately) from the terminal part (the terminal side has a number of small holes).
  • Page 24 To remove the memory card Check that the access lamp is not lit, then open the memory card cover. CompactFlash/Microdrive: Push down the CF card eject lever. After the card is ejected a little, pull out the memory card. “Memory Stick Duo” media: Push the “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 25: Notes On Using Memory Cards

    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.
  • Page 26 • “Memory Stick Duo” media 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” media and the equipment used. Notes on using “Memory Stick Duo” media •...

  • Page 27: Preparing The Camera

    Preparing the camera Setting up the date When you turn the camera on for the first time, the date/time setup screen appears. Set the power switch to ON to turn the camera on. • To turn the camera off, set it to OFF. Verify that [OK] is selected on the LCD monitor, then press the center of the multi-selector.

  • Page 28: Adjusting The Diopter

    Verify that [OK] is selected, then press the center of the multi- selector. To cancel the date/time setting operation Press the MENU button. Adjusting the diopter Adjust the diopter-adjustment dial to your eyesight until the indicators appear clearly in the viewfinder. •...

  • Page 29: Using The Accessories Supplied

    Using the accessories supplied This section describes how to use the shoulder strap and Remote Commander clip. The other accessories are described in the following pages. • Rechargeable battery pack (page 14) • Battery charger, Power cord (mains lead) (page 14) •...
  • Page 30 Using the Remote Commander clip You can catch the cord of the RM-S1AM Remote Commander (sold separately) on the shoulder strap to secure it. Open the Remote Commander clip. Clip the strap and the cord of the Remote Commander to the Remote Commander clip.

  • Page 31: Checking The Number Of Recordable Images

    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.
  • Page 32 “Memory Stick Duo” media Capacity Quality Standard Fine Extra fine cRAW & JPEG RAW & JPEG cRAW * When [Aspect ratio] is set to [16:9], you can record more images than the numbers shown in the tables above. However, if you record an image as a RAW image, the number is the same as that of the [3:2] aspect ratio.

  • Page 33: Cleaning

    Cleaning Cleaning the LCD monitor Wipe the screen surface with an LCD cleaning kit (sold separately) to remove fingerprints, dust, etc. Cleaning the lens • When cleaning the lens surface, remove dust using a blower. In case of dust that sticks to the surface, wipe it off with a soft cloth or tissue paper slightly moistened with lens cleaning solution.

  • Page 34: Cleaning The Image Sensor

    Cleaning the image sensor If dust or debris enters the camera and lands on the image sensor, 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.
  • Page 35 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 camera’s face downward to prevent the dust from resettling in the camera.

  • Page 36: Before Your Operation

    Identifying parts and screen indicators See the pages in parentheses for details of operation. Front side ISO button (72) (Exposure) button (68) DRIVE button (81) Shutter button (47) Front control dial (46, 115) AF illuminator (60)/Self-timer lamp (83) Remote sensor (86) Lens contacts* Mirror* Preview button (87)

  • Page 37: Rear Side

    Rear side Viewfinder (28) Eyepiece sensors (124) Power switch (27) MENU button (102) DISP (Display) button/LCD brightness button (40, 90) (Delete) button (97) (Playback) button (90) LCD monitor (39) For shooting: C (Custom) button (106) For viewing: (Histogram) button (91) For shooting: Fn (Function) button (46) For viewing:...

  • Page 38: Sides/Bottom

    Sides/Bottom “Memory Stick Duo” media insertion slot (23) Memory card cover (23) CF card insertion slot (23) CF card eject lever (24) Hooks for shoulder strap (29) REMOTE terminal DC IN terminal • When connecting the AC- VQ900AM AC Adaptor/ Charger (sold separately) to the camera, turn the camera off, then plug the connector of the...

  • Page 39: Lcd Monitor (Recording Information Display)

    LCD monitor (Recording information display) • The illustration above is an example of the detailed display in the horizontal position. Display Indication P A S M Mode dial (47, 49) 1/125 Shutter speed (52) F5.6 Aperture (51) +2.0 Exposure (68) AE lock (69) Display Indication...
  • Page 40 Display Indication White balance (Auto, Preset, Color 5500K temperature, Color filter, Custom) (73) Switching the recording information display Press the DISP button to switch between the enlarged display and the detailed display. When you rotate the camera to a vertical position, the display automatically rotates to adjust to the camera position.
  • Page 41 Note • You can display the screen used for adjusting the brightness of the LCD monitor by pressing the DISP button a little longer (page 124).

  • Page 42: Display Panel

    Display panel You can adjust white balance, ISO sensitivity, drive mode, and exposure compensation by checking the display panel on the top of the camera. Shutter speed Exposure (68) (52)/Aperture (51) Display Indication Battery remaining (19) [100] Remaining number of recordable images (31)* * Even when the remaining number of recordable images is more than 999, “999”...

  • Page 43: Viewfinder

    Viewfinder Display Indication AF area (58) Spot AF area (58) Spot metering area (67) Shooting area for aspect ratio 16:9 (104) APS-C size area (132) Display Indication Flash compensation (71) Flash charging (63) Wireless flash (64) High-speed sync (65) Manual focus (60) Focus (57) Shutter speed (52) Aperture (51)
  • Page 44 Camera shake warning indicator Due to potential camera shake, the flashes in the viewfinder. Note • The (Camera shake warning) indicator is displayed only in the exposure modes that the shutter speed is automatically set. This indicator is not displayed in M/S/P modes.

  • Page 45: Selecting A Function/Setting

    Selecting a function/setting You can select a function for shooting or playback on the recording information display that is displayed by pressing the Fn (Function) button, or from the screens that are displayed by pressing the DRIVE or MENU button, etc. When you start an operation, an operation guide that indicates a function of the multi-selector is displayed at the bottom...

  • Page 46: Selecting The Functions On The Quick Navi Screen

    Selecting the functions on the Quick Navi screen Using the Quick Navi screen, you can change settings directly on the recording information display. Press the Fn button so that the Quick Navi screen appears. Following the operation guide, select the desired item with v/V/ b/B on the multi-selector.

  • Page 47: Shooting Images

    Shooting images Shooting with the automatic setting The “AUTO” mode allows you to easily shoot any subject under any conditions. Set the mode dial to Hold the camera and look into the viewfinder. Press the shutter button halfway down to focus and press the shutter button fully down to shoot.
  • Page 48 • The actual setting may not correspond to the positions of the focus mode lever and metering mode lever on the camera. Refer to the information displayed on the LCD monitor when you take pictures.

  • Page 49: Exposure Mode

    Exposure mode If you adjust the shutter speed or aperture, the effect on the picture is changed, even if it is the same subject. This camera has the following four modes. The number positions (1/2/3) are used to recall the saved settings. See page 89. P: Program auto mode (below) Allows you to shoot with the exposure adjusted automatically (both the shutter speed and the aperture value).
  • Page 50 Program Shift You can temporarily change the shutter speed and aperture value combination with the correct exposure determined by the camera maintained. Press the shutter button halfway down to adjust the focus. The shutter speed and aperture value are indicated. Rotate the front or rear control dial to select your desired combination while the focus is...

  • Page 51: Shooting With Aperture Priority

    Shooting with Aperture priority If you set the aperture (a smaller F- number) wider, the in-focus range becomes narrower. Only the main subject is then in focus. When the aperture is smaller (a larger F-number), the in-focus range becomes wider. The whole image is sharpened.

  • Page 52: Shooting With Shutter Speed Priority

    Shooting with Shutter speed priority If you shoot a moving subject at a higher shutter speed, it appears as if frozen on the image. At a lower shutter speed, the subject appears as if it flowing. Aperture value is automatically adjusted. Set the mode dial to S.

  • Page 53: Shooting With Manual Exposure

    Shooting with Manual exposure You can manually adjust the shutter speed and aperture values. This mode is useful when you maintain the setting of the shutter speed and the aperture value or when you use an exposure meter. Set the mode dial to M. Rotate the front control dial to adjust the shutter speed, and rotate the rear control dial to...

  • Page 54: Shooting With Bulb

    Manual shift You can change the shutter speed and aperture value combination without changing the exposure you set. Rotate the front control dial while pressing the AEL button to select the shutter speed and aperture value combination. Shooting with BULB You can shoot trails of light, such as fireworks, with a long exposure.
  • Page 55 Press and hold the shutter button for the duration of the shooting. As long as the shutter button is pressed, the shutter remains open. • Using a Remote Commander (sold separately) reduces the camera shake and continues the exposure without pressing and holding the shutter button.

  • Page 56: Using The Shooting Function

    Selecting the focus method Selecting the focus mode (Auto focus) Set the focus mode lever to the desired position. 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 57).
  • Page 57 • You can set the function of the “A” position of the focus mode lever to DMF (Direct Manual Focus) with [AF-A setup] in the menu (page 61). Focus indicator Focus indicator Status z lit Focus locked. Ready to shoot. Focus is confirmed.

  • Page 58: Selecting The Focus Area

    Selecting the focus area Select the desired AF area to suit the shooting conditions or your preference. The area used for focusing is illuminated briefly. Press the Fn button to display the Quick Navi screen (page 46). Select the AF area item with v/V/ b/B on the multi-selector.

  • Page 59: Shooting With Focus-Lock

    (Local) Choose the area for which you want to activate the focus from among nine areas with the multi-selector during the shooting. To select the spot AF area, press the center of the multi-selector. Notes • The supplementary ranging points are activated only when They are not displayed in the viewfinder.

  • Page 60: Af Illuminator

    AF illuminator Press the shutter button halfway down, a red illuminator is automatically emitted until the focus is locked, according to the situation. When you shoot a subject under dark conditions, or when you shoot a low contrast subject, the AF illuminator allows the camera to focus more easily on the subject.

  • Page 61: Shooting With Direct Manual Focus

    Rotate the focusing ring of the lens to achieve a sharp focus. Notes • In the case of a subject that can be focused in auto focus mode, the z indicator lights up in the viewfinder when the focus is confirmed. When the Wide AF area is selected, the center area is used, and when the Local AF area is selected, the area that is selected with the multi-selector is used.

  • Page 62: Switching The Af/Mf Easily

    Switching the AF/MF easily You can switch between auto focus and manual focus without relaxing your position (AF/MF control). Press the AF/MF button. AF/MF button In auto focus mode: The focus mode is switched temporarily to the manual focus. Press and hold the AF/MF button and adjust the focus by rotating the Focusing ring focusing ring.

  • Page 63: Using A Flash (Sold Separately)

    Using a flash (sold separately) 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. For details on how to use the flash, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the flash.

  • Page 64: Selecting The Flash Mode

    Selecting the flash mode Press the Fn button to display the Quick Navi screen (page 46). • When the enlarged display screen is used, set up from the menu (page 102). Select the flash item with v/V/b/ B on the multi-selector. Select the desired mode with the front or rear control dial.

  • Page 65: Shooting With Slow Sync

    Shoot the image. The flash of the HVL-F58AM and another flash are fired. Notes • Change the channel of the external flash when another photographer is using a wireless flash nearby and his/her flash light triggers firing of your flash. To change the channel of the external flash, refer to the operating instructions supplied with it.

  • Page 66: Using A Flash Equipped With A Flash Sync Terminal Cord

    • For details on High Speed Sync, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the flash. Using a flash equipped with a flash sync terminal cord Open the cover of the terminal and plug the cord in. • You can use a flash equipped with a flash sync terminal of the opposite polarity.

  • Page 67: Adjusting The Brightness Of The Image (Metering, Exposure, Flash Compensation)

    Adjusting the brightness of the image (Metering, Exposure, Flash compensation) Selecting the Metering mode You can select the method for measuring the brightness of a subject. Select the desired mode with the metering mode lever. (Multi segment) This divides the whole screen into 40 segments to measure light (40-segment honeycomb pattern metering).

  • Page 68: Compensating The Exposure

    Multi segment metering The screen of this camera is equipped with 39 honeycomb sharped metering elements and one metering element that covers the surrounding area. These elements work in sync with auto focus, allowing the camera to accurately measure the position and brightness of the subject in order to determine the exposure.

  • Page 69: Shooting With Fixed Brightness (Ae Lock)

    Adjust the exposure with b/B on the multi-selector. • You can use the front or rear control dial instead. • The exposure is compensated by 1/3 of a step between ±3.0 EV. You can set this exposure step to 1/2 EV increments with [Exposure step] in the Recording menu (page 108).
  • Page 70 Press the AEL button to lock the exposure. (AE lock mark) appears in the viewfinder and on the LCD monitor. While pressing the AEL button, recompose the image, if necessary, and shoot the image. • If you continue to shoot with the same exposure value, press and hold the AEL button after the shooting.

  • Page 71: Adjusting The Amount Of Flash Light (Flash Compensation)

    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. Adjusting it toward + makes the flash level higher and adjusting it toward –...

  • Page 72: Setting Iso

    Setting ISO Sensitivity to light is expressed by the ISO number (recommended exposure index). The larger the number, the higher the sensitivity. Press the ISO button to display the ISO screen. Select the desired value with v/V on the multi-selector. •...

  • Page 73: Adjusting The Color Tones (White Balance)

    Adjusting the color tones (White balance) White balance is a feature that adjusts the color tone to approximate what you see. When [AWB] (Auto WB) is selected, the white balance is automatically adjusted. However, you can 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...

  • Page 74: Setting The Color Temperature And A Filter Effect

    Select a preset white balance, then finely adjust the color tone with b/B on the multi-selector, if necessary. Adjusting it toward + turns the image reddish and adjusting it toward – turns the image bluish. (The increment is equivalent to about 10 Mired*.) •...

  • Page 75: Custom White Balance

    Select [5500K] (ColorTemperature) or [0] (Color filter) with v/ V on the multi-selector. • To set the color temperature, select the value with b/B. • To set the color filter, select the compensation direction with b/B. 5500K* Sets the white balance by the color temperature. The higher (ColorTemperature) the number, the more reddish the image and the lower the number, the more bluish the image.
  • Page 76 Select [ SET] with b/B on the multi-selector, then press the center of the multi-selector. Hold the camera so that the white area fully covers the spot- metering circle and press the shutter button down. The shutter clicks and the calibrated values (ColorTemperature and Color filter) are displayed.

  • Page 77: Image Processing

    Image processing Using the D-Range Optimizer The camera analyzes the subject almost instantly and automatically compensates to improve the image quality with the optimal brightness and gradation. You can shoot images with the natural color that you intend to reproduce. Press the Fn button to display the Quick Navi screen (page 46).

  • Page 78: Using The Creative Style

    • For enlarged RAW images, the effects of the D-Range optimizer other than (Standard) cannot be checked on the camera. • When shooting with the D-Range optimizer, the image may be noisy. Especially when you enhance the effect with checking the recorded image. Using the Creative Style This Creative Style is pre-programmed with image styles optimal for various scenes and purposes.
  • Page 79 To use image styles other than the default ones Select the style box for which you want to change the setting. Move the cursor to the right with B on the multi-selector, and select the desired image style with v/V on the multi-selector.
  • Page 80 Parameters (Contrast) The higher the value selected, the more the difference of light and shadow is accentuated, thus making an impact on an image. (Saturation) The higher the value selected, the vivider the color. When a lower value selected, the color of the image is restrained and quiet.

  • Page 81: Selecting The Drive Mode

    Selecting the drive mode This camera has nine drive modes, such as single-shot advanced, continuous advanced. Use them for your purpose. Press the DRIVE button to display the setup screen. Select the desired mode with v/V on the multi-selector, then select the desired setting with b/B on the multi-selector.

  • Page 82: Shooting Continuously

    (Advanced: Level), or [High ISO NR] is set to [High]. The maximum number of continuous shots (Media used for the measurement: Sony CompactFlash Card NCFD2G (300× 4GB)) The number of continuous shooting images obtainable has an upper limit. 16 images...

  • Page 83: Using The Self-Timer

    Using the self-timer After you press the shutter button, the shutter will be released about ten seconds. 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.
  • Page 84 * (Bracket: Shoots three or five images with the exposure shifted by a Cont.) selected step. Press and hold the shutter button until the recording stops. * (Bracket: Shoots three or five images with the exposure shifted by a Single) selected step.

  • Page 85: Shooting With The White Balance Bracket

    • When Single bracket is selected, if the shutter button is pressed halfway down and released, “br 1” appears for the ambient light bracket and “Fbr 1” appears for the flash bracket in the viewfinder. When bracket shooting starts, it indicates what number the next frame is, for instance, “br 2,” “br 3.”...

  • Page 86: Shooting With The Wireless Remote Commander

    Press the shutter button. The focus and exposure are locked and the mirror moves upward. Press the shutter button again to shoot. • If you use the Remote Commander (sold separately), you can reduce the camera shake furthermore. Notes • The mirror automatically moves downward after 30 seconds from the time the mirror is moved upward.

  • Page 87: Using The Preview Function

    Using the preview function You can check the approximate sharpness of the subject in the viewfinder before the actual shooting (Optical preview). Then, you can check the condition of the image on the LCD monitor on the rear of the camera beforehand, and on the same screen, you can check and adjust the effect of the exposure, white balance, D-Range Optimizer, and so on (Intelligent preview).
  • Page 88 When you want to activate only the Optical preview function Set [Preview Function] to [Optical Preview] in the (page 114). Notes • The image in the viewfinder will be darker during the Optical preview. • The auto focus does not function during an Optical preview. Focus on the subject beforehand.

  • Page 89: Registering Your Own Settings

    Registering your own settings You can register three combinations of frequently used modes and settings in the memory. You can recall the registered settings with the mode dial. Put the camera on the setting you want to register. Press the MENU button, and select [Memory] in the Recording menu 4 with v/V/b/B on the multi-selector.

  • Page 90: Using The Viewing Function

    Playing back images The last recorded image is displayed on the LCD monitor. Press the button. Select an image with b/B on the multi-selector. To return to the shooting mode Press the button again. To switch the recording data display Press the DISP button.

  • Page 91: Displaying The Histogram

    Displaying the histogram A histogram is the luminance distribution that shows how many pixels of a particular brightness exist in the picture. Press the button. The histogram and recording data of the displayed image are displayed. button To return to the normal playback screen Press the button again.

  • Page 92: Rotating An Image

    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.

  • Page 93: Enlarging Images

    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.

  • Page 94: Switching To The Display Of The Image List

    Note • For enlarged RAW images, the effect of the D-Range optimizer other than (Standard) cannot be checked on the camera. Scaling range Image size Scaling range Approx. ×1.2 – ×19 Approx. ×1.2 – ×14 Approx. ×1.2 – ×9.4 Switching to the display of the image list Press the button.

  • Page 95: Checking The Information Of Recorded Images

    Checking the information of recorded images Basic information display Display Indication Memory card (23) 100-0003 Folder - file number (141) Protect (121) DPOF3 DPOF set (121) Image quality (105) Image size (104)/APS-C size (132)/Aspect ratio (104) Battery remaining warning (19) 1/125 Shutter speed (52) F3.5...

  • Page 96: Histogram Display

    Histogram display Display Indication Memory card (23) 100-0003 Folder - file number (141) Protect (121) DPOF3 DPOF set (121) Image quality (105) Image size (104)/APS-C size (132)/Aspect ratio (104) Battery remaining warning (19) Display Indication Histogram (91) P A S M Exposure mode (47, 49) 1/125 Shutter speed (52) F3.5...

  • Page 97: Deleting Images (Delete)

    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 Display the image you want to delete and press the Select [Delete] with v on the multi-selector, then press the center of the multi-selector.
  • Page 98 Select [Delete] with v on the multi-selector, then press the center of the multi-selector.

  • Page 99: Viewing Images On A Tv Screen

    Viewing images on a TV screen Turn off both your camera and the TV, and connect the camera to the Turn on the TV and switch the input. • See also the operating instructions supplied with the TV. Turn on the camera, and press the button.
  • Page 100 To use your camera abroad It may be necessary to switch the video signal output to match that of your TV system (page 125). To view images using the Wireless Remote Commander Connecting the camera to a TV and turning to the playback mode allows you to play back images using the RMT-DSLR1 Wireless Remote Commander (sold separately).
  • Page 101 • Use an HDMI mini connector on one end (for the camera), and a connector suitable for connection to your TV on the other end. • By connecting your camera to Sony’s VIDEO-A compatible TV using an HDMI cable, TV sets suitable image quality for viewing still picture automatically. Please refer to the operating instructions of Sony’s VIDEO-A compatible TV for more...

  • Page 102: Using The Menu

    Menu function list This section describes how to set up the function using the MENU button. After pressing the MENU button, operate the multi-selector, following the instructions in the operation guide (page 45). Recording menu (pages 104 to 112) Image size Aspect ratio Quality D-RangeOptimizer...
  • Page 103 Playback menu (pages 120 to 123) Delete Format Protect DPOF setup • Date imprint • Index print PlaybackDisplay Setup menu (pages 124 to 134) LCD brightness Info.disp.time Power save Video output HDMI output Language Date/Time setup Menu start Delete confirm. Audio signals Cleaning mode AF Micro Adj.

  • Page 104: Recording Menu 1

    Recording menu 1 Image size [Aspect ratio]: [3:2] L:24M 6048 × 4032 pixels M:13M 4400 × 2936 pixels S:6.1M 3024 × 2016 pixels [Aspect ratio]: [16:9] L:21M 6048 × 3408 pixels M:11M 4400 × 2472 pixels S:5.2M 3024 × 1704 pixels [APS-C size capt.]: [On] L:11M 3984 ×...
  • Page 105 Quality RAW ( File format: RAW (raw data) This format is not achieved by digital processing. Select this format to process images on a computer for professional purposes. cRAW* ( • The image size is fixed to the maximum size. The image size is not displayed on the LCD monitor.

  • Page 106: Custom Button

    Custom button You can assign a function of your choosing to the C button. In the default setting, [Creative Style] is assigned to the C button. The functions you can register AF lock/AF/MF control/Optical Preview/IntelligentPrev./ISO/White balance/Exposure comp./Flash compens./Drive mode/AF area/Image size/ Quality/Creative Style/D-RangeOptimizer/Flash mode/Memory Creative Style For details, see page 78.

  • Page 107: Recording Menu 2

    Recording menu 2 Flash mode For details, see page 64. Flash control You can select the flash control mode to set the amount of flash light. ADI flash This method controls the lighting of the flash, factoring in the focus distance information and light metering data from the pre-flash.

  • Page 108: Flash Compens

    Flash compens. For details, see page 71. Exposure step You can select a compensation increment for shutter speed, aperture, and exposure. 0.5 EV Changes in 1/2 EV steps. 0.3 EV Changes in 1/3 EV steps. ISO Auto Range 400 – 1600 Sets the range to 400 –...

  • Page 109: Recording Menu 3

    Recording menu 3 AF-A setup For details, see page 61. AF area For details, see page 58. Priority setup Select a setting for shutter release. The shutter cannot be released when the focus is not confirmed. Release The shutter can be released even when the focus is not confirmed.

  • Page 110: High Iso Nr

    AF w/ shutter In the default setting, adjusting the focus is carried out by pressing the shutter button halfway down. You can deactivate this action. Adjusts the focus by pressing the shutter button halfway down. Does not adjust the focus by pressing the shutter button halfway down.

  • Page 111: Recording Menu 4

    Recording menu 4 Memory For details, see page 89. Rec mode reset You can reset the main functions of the recording mode when the mode dial is set to P, A, S, or M. The items to be reset are as follows. Items Exposure comp.
  • Page 112 Items AF w/ shutter (110) Long exp.NR (110) High ISO NR (110) Reset to (default setting) Normal...

  • Page 113: Custom Menu 1

    Custom menu Custom menu 1 AF/MF button AF/MF control AF lock AF/MF control When [AF/MF button] is set to [AF/MF control], you can change how you operate the AF/MF button. Hold Toggle AF drive speed You can select the speed of focusing when the auto focus is activated. Fast Slow AF area disp.

  • Page 114: Auto Review

    FocusHoldButton If you use a lens equipped with a focus hold button, you can change the function of the button to preview a shot. Focus hold Uses the button as the focus hold button. Optical Preview Uses the button as the optical preview button. IntelligentPrev.

  • Page 115: Custom Menu 2

    Custom menu 2 AEL button The function and the mode of operation of the AEL button can be changed. AEL hold The camera locks the measured exposure value. Select from the following two options: Holding the value while the AEL button is pressed ([AEL hold]) or holding the value until the AEL toggle AEL button is pressed again ([AEL toggle]).

  • Page 116: Dial Exp.comp

    Dial exp.comp You can compensate the exposure with the front control dial ( control dial ( Does not compensate the exposure with the dials. Front dial Compensates the exposure with the front control dial. Rear dial Compensates the exposure with the rear control dial. For example, when [Ctrl dial setup] is set to [ functions of the front and rear control dials are as follows: Exposure Mode...

  • Page 117: Button Ops

    Button ops. In the default setting, pressing the ISO button, WB button, DRIVE button, button, or C button will put the exclusive screen on the display. You can choose to have the Quick Navi screen (page 46) displayed instead. Exclusive disp Displays an exclusive screen for each mode.

  • Page 118: Custom Menu 3

    Custom menu 3 Exp.comp.set You can select a method for exposure compensation when a flash is used. Ambient&flash Exposure compensation is performed on both the ambient light range (the background that the flash light does not reach) and the flash light range. •...

  • Page 119: Custom Reset

    Custom reset You can reset the items of the Custom menu. The items to be reset are as follows. Items AF/MF button (113) AF/MF control (113) AF drive speed (113) AF area disp. (113) FocusHoldButton (114) Auto review (114) Preview Function (87) AEL button (115) Ctrl dial setup (115) Dial exp.comp (116)

  • Page 120: Playback Menu 1

    Playback menu 1 Delete You can delete multiple images. Once you have deleted an image, you cannot restore it. Check whether you delete the image or not beforehand. Marked images Deletes the selected images. All images Deletes all the images in the memory card. After a message appears, select [Delete] with v on the multi-selector, then press the center of the multi-selector.

  • Page 121: Dpof Setup

    Protect You can protect images against accidental erasure. Marked images Protects selected images or cancels the protection of the selected images. Select the image you want to protect with b/B on the multi-selector, then press the center of the multi-selector. (To cancel a selection, press the center again.) To protect other images or cancel the protection of other images, repeat this step.

  • Page 122: Date Imprint

    Date imprint You can date images when printing them. The position of the date (inside or outside the image, character size, etc.) depends on your printer. Imposes the date. Does not impose the date. Note • This function may not provided, depending on the printer. Index print You can create an index print of all the images in the memory card.

  • Page 123: Playback Menu 2

    Playback menu 2 Slide show Repeatedly plays back the recorded images in the memory card. You can view the previous/next image with b/B on the multi-selector. To pause the slide show Press the center of the multi-selector. Pressing again starts the slide show again.

  • Page 124: Setup Menu 1

    Setup menu 1 LCD brightness You can adjust the brightness of the LCD monitor. Adjust the brightness with b/B on the multi-selector, then press the center of the multi-selector. • On the recording information or playback screen, you can adjust the brightness by pressing the DISP button a little longer.

  • Page 125: Video Output

    Video output Sets the video signal output according to the TV color system of the connected video equipment. Different countries and regions use different TV color systems. If you want to view images on a TV screen, check page 100 for the TV color system of the country or region where the camera is used.

  • Page 126: Setup Menu 2

    Setup menu 2 Memory card You can select the types of memory cards that you use for recording or playback. Memory Stick Uses the “Memory Stick Duo” media for recording or playback. CompactFlash Uses the CF card/Microdrive for recording or playback. File number Selects the method used to assign file numbers to images.

  • Page 127: Select Folder

    Select folder When a standard form folder is selected and there are two or more folders, you can select the recording folder to be used to record images. Select the desired folder with v/V on the multi-selector, then press the center of the multi-selector. Note •...
  • Page 128 MassStrg.card When “Memory Stick Duo” media and a CF card are both inserted in the camera during mass storage connections, you can select the displayed method on a PC. Both cards Displays both the “Memory Stick Duo” media and CF card/ Microdrive.

  • Page 129: Setup Menu 3

    Setup menu 3 Menu start You can select the default screen when you press the MENU button. Displays the Previous Displays the previously selected menu screen first. Delete confirm. You can select the default item of a confirmation screen when deleting the images or the folders.

  • Page 130: Af Micro Adj

    “±0,” or reset the values of all the lenses with [Clear]. • If you perform AF fine adjustment with a lens of other manufacturers, the adjustment values of Sony, Minolta, and Konica Minolta lenses may be affected. Do not use this function with any lens of other manufacturers.

  • Page 131: Focusing Screen

    Focusing Screen You can change the focusing screen to Type L (sold separately) or Type M (sold separately) according to your purpose. Select the appropriate setting for the type of screen after changing the screen itself. Type G Standard focusing screens (the default one). Type M Focusing screens that make it easier to check the peak of the focus and approximate sharpness.

  • Page 132: Setup Menu 4

    Setup menu 4 APS-C size capt. Captures an image in the area equivalent to the APS-C size. Decide on composition using guide. [Aspect ratio] is set to [3:2]. Shoots an image in the APS-C size area. Shoots an image in the normal size area. Reset default You can reset the main functions of the camera.
  • Page 133 Items Flash control (107) Flash compens. (71) Exposure step (108) ISO Auto Range (108) AF-A setup (109) AF area (58) Priority setup (109) AF illuminator (60) AF w/ shutter (110) Long exp.NR (110) High ISO NR (110) Custom menu Items AF/MF button (113) AF/MF control (113) AF drive speed (113)
  • Page 134 Playback menu Items DPOF setup – Date imprint (121) PlaybackDisplay (122) Slide show – Interval (123) Setup menu Items LCD brightness (124) Info.disp.time (124) Power save (124) HDMI output (125) File number (126) Folder name (126) USB connection (127) MassStrg.card (128) Menu start (129) Delete confirm.

  • Page 135: Viewing Images

    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.
  • Page 136 Stage 1: Connecting the camera and your computer Insert a memory card with recorded images into the camera. Insert the sufficiently charged battery pack in the camera, or connect the camera to a wall outlet (wall socket) with the AC Adaptor/charger (sold separately).
  • Page 137 Stage 2: Copying images to a computer For Windows This section describes an example of copying images to a “Documents” (For Windows XP: “My Documents”) folder. Click [Open folder to view files] (For Windows XP: [Open folder to view files] t [OK]) as the wizard screen appears automatically on the desktop.
  • Page 138 Double-click the [Documents] folder. Then, right-click on the “Documents” window to display the menu and click [Paste]. The image files are copied to the “Documents” folder. • When an image with the same file name exists in the copy destination folder, the overwrite confirmation message appears.

  • Page 139: Viewing Images On Your Computer

    Viewing images on your computer For Windows This section describes the procedure for viewing copied images in the “Documents” (For Windows XP: “My Documents”) folder. Click [Start] t [Documents]. • If you are using Windows 2000, double-click [My Documents] on the desktop.
  • Page 140 x For Windows Double-click on the tasktray, then click (USB Mass Storage Device) t [Stop]. Confirm the device on the confirmation window, then click [OK]. The device is disconnected. x For Macintosh Drag and drop the drive icon or the icon of the memory card to the “Trash”...

  • Page 141: Image File Storage Destinations And File Names

    Image file storage destinations and file names The image files recorded with your camera are grouped as folders on the memory card. Example: viewing folders on Windows Vista AFolders containing image data recorded using this camera. (The first three digits show the folder number.) BYou can create a folder by date form (page 126).
  • Page 142 Right-click the image file, then click [Rename]. Change the file name to “DSC0ssss.” Enter a number from 0001 to 9999 for ssss. • If the overwrite confirmation message appears, enter a different number. • An extension may be displayed depending on the computer settings. The extension for images is JPG.

  • Page 143: Using The Software

    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” “Remote Camera Control” • Sony Picture Utility “PMB” (Picture Motion Browser) Note •...

  • Page 144: Installing The Software

    Select “Run Install.exe” and follow the instructions that appear on the screen to proceed with the installation. Click [Install]. Verify that both “Sony Image Data Suite” and “Sony Picture Utility” are checked and follow the instructions on the screen. (SONYPICTUTIL)
  • Page 145 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”...
  • Page 146 RAW format or save it in the general file format. • For details on “Image Data Converter SR,” refer to the Help. To start the Help, click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Help] t [Image Data Converter SR Ver.3].
  • Page 147 To start the 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.
  • Page 148 [Priority setup] in the To start up/exit “Remote Camera Control” x Windows Click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Remote Camera Control]. To exit, click the button on the upper-right corner of the screen.
  • Page 149 Programs] t [Sony Picture Utility] t [Help] t [PMB Guide]. To start up/exit “PMB” Double-click the (PMB) icon on the desktop. Or, from the Start menu: Click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Picture Utility] t [PMB]. To exit the “PMB,” click Note •...

  • Page 150: Printing Images

    Printing images by connecting the camera to a PictBridge compliant printer Even if you do not have a computer, you can print images shot using your camera by connecting the camera directly to a PictBridge compliant printer. “PictBridge” is based on the CIPA standard.
  • Page 151 Stage 2: Connecting the camera to the printer Connect the camera to the printer. Turn on your camera and the printer. The screen used for selecting images you want to print appears. Stage 3: Printing Select the image to print with b/B on the multi-selector, then press the center of the multi-selector.
  • Page 152 To cancel the print During printing, pressing the center of the multi-selector cancels the print. Remove the USB cable or turn off the camera. When you want to print again, follow the procedure (Stages 1 to 3) above. PictBridge menu Page 1 Print Prints the selected images.
  • Page 153 Layout Auto 1-up/Borderless 1-up 2-up 3-up 4-up 8-up Index Date imprint Day and time Date Page 2 Unmark all After the message appears, select [OK], then press the center of the multi-selector. The mark on each image is cleared. When you cancel your specification without printing images, select this item.

  • Page 154: Others

    Specifications Camera [System] Camera Type Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera and interchangeable lenses Lens All of Lens (except for DT lens*) * Using a DT lens is not guaranteed because the corners of the field are darkened and the camera does not meet the primary AE performance standard.

  • Page 155: Rechargeable Battery Pack

    [Shutter] Type Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal- plane type Speed range 1/8000 second to 30 seconds, bulb Flash sync speed 1/250 second (SteadyShot deactivated), 1/200 second (SteadyShot activated) [Recording media] CompactFlash card (TypeI,II), Microdrive, “Memory Stick Duo” media [LCD monitor] LCD panel 7.5 cm (3.0 type) TFT drive Total number of dots 921 600 (640 ×...
  • Page 156 Trademarks • is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • “Memory Stick,” Stick PRO,” “Memory Stick Duo,” , “Memory Stick PRO Duo,”...

  • Page 157: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If you experience trouble with your camera, try the following solutions. Check the items on pages 157 to 163. Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Check the following items. Remove the battery pack, and insert the battery pack again after about one minute, and turn on the power.
  • Page 158 Shooting images 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 five seconds to minimize the battery consumption. You can change the time that the LCD monitor is turned off (page 124).
  • Page 159 The image is whitish (Flare). Blurring of light appears on the image (Ghosting). • The picture was taken under a strong light source, and excessive light has entered the lens. Attach a lens hood. The corners of the picture are too dark. •...

  • Page 160: Memory Card

    Computers Your computer does not recognize your camera. • Use the USB cable (supplied) (page 136). • Disconnect the USB cable, and connect it again firmly. • Set [USB connection] to [Mass Storage] (page 136). • Disconnect all equipment other than the camera, the keyboard and the mouse from the USB jacks of your computer.
  • Page 161 Printing Also see “PictBridge compliant printer” (as follows) in conjunction with the following items. The color of the image is strange. • When you print the images recorded in Adobe RGB mode using sRGB printers that are not compatible with Adobe RGB (DCF2.0/Exif2.21), the images are printed at a lower intensity level (page 106).
  • Page 162 • 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 (page 27). If the date setting is lost every time the battery pack is charged, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.
  • Page 163 • The SteadyShot function does not work. You can continue to shoot but the SteadyShot function will not work. Turn the camera off and on. If the SteadyShot scale continues to flash, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.

  • Page 164: Warning Messages

    Warning messages If the following messages appear, follow the instructions. For “InfoLITHIUM” battery only • An incompatible battery pack is being used. Set date and time? • Set the date and time. If you have not used the camera for a long time, charge the internal rechargeable battery (pages 27, 167).
  • Page 165 System error • Turn the power off, remove the battery pack, then re-insert it. If the message appears frequently, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Cover open • Close the memory card cover to start shooting.
  • Page 166 Cannot create more folders. • The folder with a name beginning with “999” exists on the memory card. You cannot create any folders if this is the case. Printing canceled • The print job was canceled. Disconnect the USB cable or turn the camera off.

  • Page 167: Precautions

    Precautions Do not use/store the camera in the following places • In an extremely hot, dry or humid place In places such as in a car parked in the sun, the camera body may become deformed and this may cause a malfunction. •...
  • Page 168 Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Charging method of the internal rechargeable battery Insert a charged battery pack in the...

  • Page 169: Index

    Index Index Numerics 40-segment honeycomb pattern metering ... 67 Adobe RGB... 106 AE lock ... 69 AEL button ... 115 AF area... 58 AF illuminator... 60 AF Micro Adj... 130 AF/MF control ... 62 Ambient light ... 69 Anti-dust function ... 34 Aperture ...
  • Page 170 Enlarged screen ...93 EV scale...53, 70, 84 Exposure compensation...68 Exposure lock ...69 Exposure mode ...49 Eyecup ...28 File number...126 Flash ...63 Flash compensation ...71 Flash control ...107 Flash mode...64 Fn button...46 Focus...56 Focus indicator ...57 Focusing Screen...131 Focus-lock ...59 Folder name ...126 Format...120 HDMI output ...101 High ISO NR ...110...
  • Page 171 New folder ... 127 Noise reduction ... 110 Number of recordable images ... 19, 31 PictBridge ... 150 PlaybackDisplay ... 122 PMB ... 149 Power save ... 124 Preset white balance... 73 Pressing halfway down ... 47, 110 Preview ... 87 Print...

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