Page 1 Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera Handbook NEX-3/NEX-5/NEX-5C 4-183-855-14(1) Table of contents Sample photo search Menu search Index © 2010 Sony Corporation...
Page 2: How To Use This Handbook
Notes on using the camera How to use this handbook Click on a button at upper right on the cover and each page to jump to the corresponding page. This is convenient when searching for a function you want to use. You can jump to the pages by clicking on the page numbers mentioned in the book.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Table of contents Notes on using the camera How to use this handbook ·····································2 Sample photo search ············································5 Identifying parts ···················································11 List of icons on the screen···································15 Basic operations Using the control wheel and soft keys·················17 Menu search························································19 Shooting images··················································23 Playing back images ···········································26 Deleting images···················································28 Using functions with the control wheel...
Page 4 Connecting with other equipment Viewing images on a TV····································123 Using with your computer··································125 Using the software·············································127 Connecting the camera to the computer ···········130 Creating a movie disc (NEX-5/5C) ····················132 Printing still images ···········································136 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting·················································137 Warning messages············································143 Others Using the camera abroad ··································146 Memory card ·····················································147 “InfoLITHIUM”...
Page 5: Sample Photo Search
Sample photo search “This is the scene I want to capture in a photo, but how can I do?” You may find the answer by going through the sample photos listed here. Click the desired sample photo. Shooting people (page 6) Shooting macro photos (page 7) Shooting landscapes (page 8) Shooting sunset/night views (page 9)
Page 6 Shooting people Only the main subject is in focus by defocusing the background (24) A happy smile (59) A person in front of night view (72) A group photo (36, 37) The same scene with different brightness (38) In candle light (45) A moving person (68) A person lit from behind (31) Continued r...
Page 7 Shooting macro photos Defocusing the background (24) Flowers (43) Focusing manually (53) Preventing camera shake for indoor shots (68) Adjusting the color to indoor light (69) Lowering the amount of flash light (72) In better brightness (32) Making food look appealing (32) Continued r...
Page 8: Shooting Landscapes
Shooting landscapes The sky in vivid colors (32) Vivid green colors (75) Scenery with a wide range of brightness (73) Defocusing the background (24) Running water (50) Colored leaves (75) Panoramic photos (46) Light outdoors shot from a dark interior (73) Keeping your shot level (90) Continued r...
Page 9 Shooting sunset/night views Holding the camera by hand (43) Fireworks (49) The same scene in different brightness (38) Shooting the red of the sunset beautifully (43) Trail of light (31) Defocusing the background (24) Preventing camera shake (36) Continued r...
Page 10 Shooting fast moving subjects Following a moving subject (56) With the subject approaching the camera (53) Expressing vigorous action (50) Capturing the best moment (35)
Page 11: Identifying Parts
Identifying parts NEX-5/5C NEX-3 When the lens is removed (NEX-5/5C/3) See the pages in parentheses for details of operation. (Playback) button (26) B ON/OFF (Power) switch C Shutter button (23) D Remote sensor (39) E AF illuminator/Self-timer lamp/Smile Shutter lamp F Speaker G Microphone* H Smart Accessory Terminal...
Page 12 NEX-5/5C NEX-3 (USB) terminal (130) B Hook for shoulder strap C HDMI terminal (123) D Light sensor E LCD monitor F MOVIE button (23) G Control wheel (17) H Soft keys (18) Image sensor position mark (53) Continued r...
Page 13 NEX-5/5C NEX-3 Flash A Battery/memory card cover B Tripod receptacle • Use a tripod with a screw length of less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch). You will be unable to firmly secure the camera to tripods having screws longer than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch), and may damage the camera.
Page 14 Lens On the E18 – 200 mm lens, refer to the instruction manual of the E18 – 200 mm lens (supplied). E18 – 55 mm F3.5-5.6 OSS (supplied with NEX-5D/5CD/5K/5CK/3D/ E16 mm F2.8 (supplied with NEX-5A/5CA/3A) A Hood index B Focusing ring C Zoom ring D Focal-length scale E Focal-length index...
Page 15: List Of Icons On The Screen
List of icons on the screen Icons are displayed on the screen to indicate the camera status. You can change the screen display using DISP (Display Contents) on the control wheel (page 29). Shooting standby Graphic display Movie recording Playback Display Indication Shoot Mode...
Page 16 Display Indication Overheating warning Database file full/ Database file error Histogram 101-0012 Playback folder – File number Protect Print order and number of copies Display Indication Menu z Soft keys Shoot Mode Shoot. Tips z Display Indication Focus status 1/125 Shutter speed F3.5 Aperture value...
Page 17: Using The Control Wheel And Soft Keys
Basic operations Using the control wheel and soft keys The control wheel and soft keys allow you to use various functions of the camera. Control wheel When shooting, DISP (Display Contents), (Drive Mode) functions are assigned to the control wheel. When playing back, DISP (Display Contents) and wheel.
Page 18: Soft Keys
Soft keys The soft keys have different roles, depending on the context. The assigned role (function) of each soft key is shown on the screen. To use the function shown at the upper right corner of the screen, press soft key A. To use the function shown at the lower right corner of the screen, press soft key B.
Page 19: Menu Search
Menu search You can set up the basic settings for the camera as a whole, or execute functions such as shooting, playback, or other operations. 1 Press [Menu]. 2 Select the desired item by pressing the top/bottom/left/right parts of the control wheel, and then press the center.
Page 20: Camera
Camera Allows you to set shooting functions, such as continuous shooting, self-timer, and flash. Drive Mode Flash Mode AF/MF Select Autofocus Area Autofocus Mode Precision Dig. Zoom Face Detection Smile Shutter Smile Detection Panorama Direction Shooting Tip List DISP (Display Contents) Display Contents Image Size Allows you to set the image size and aspect ratio.
Page 21: Playback
White Balance Metering Mode Flash Compensation DRO/Auto HDR Creative Style Playback Allows you to set playback functions. Delete Slide Show Still/Movie Select Image Index Select Folder Select Date Rotate Protect Enlarge Image Volume Settings Specify Printing Display Contents During playback Setup Allows you to make more detailed shooting settings, or change the camera settings.
Page 22 Long Exposure NR High ISO NR Movie Audio Rec Main Settings Beep Language Date/Time Setup Area Setting Help Guide Display Power Save LCD Brightness Display Color Wide Image Playback Display CTRL FOR HDMI USB Connection Cleaning Mode Version Demo Mode Reset Default Memory Card Tool Format...
Page 23: Shooting Images
Shooting images Shooting images with the settings in effect when you bought the camera is explained here. The camera makes decisions appropriate to the situation, and adjusts the settings. 1 Adjust the LCD monitor angle, and hold the camera. The Scene Recognition function begins to work. 2 To take still images, press the shutter button.
Page 24 If you shoot a still image of a subject that is difficult to focus on When the camera cannot focus on the subject automaticaly, the focus indicator blinks. Either recompose the shot or change the focus setting. Focus indicator Focus indicator Status z lit Focus locked.
Page 25 Notes • When the Scene Recognition function is enabled, the camera analyzes the scene when you press the center of the control wheel, and uses it as the Recognized Scene. • The defocusing range available depends on the lens used. •...
Page 26: Playing Back Images
Playing back images Plays back the recorded images. Still images and movies are displayed on separate screens. You cannot display still images and movies on the same screen. 1 Press the (Playback) button. 2 Select the image with the control wheel. 3 To play back panoramic images or movies, press the center of the control wheel.
Page 27 Notes • You cannot use the enlarged playback function with movies. • To enlarge panoramic images, pause the playback first, and then press [Enlarge]. Scaling range The scaling range is as follows. Image size Scaling range Approx. ×1.1 – ×13 Approx.
Page 28: Deleting Images
Deleting images You can delete the image displayed. 1 Display the image you want to delete, and press [Delete]. 2 Press the center of the control wheel to confirm [OK]. Press [Cancel] to quit the operation. Note • You cannot delete protected images. To delete several images Select [Menu] t [Playback] t [Delete] to select and delete specific images at the same time.
Page 29: Disp (Display Contents)
Using functions with the control wheel DISP (Display Contents) Using the control wheel: 1 Press DISP (Display Contents) on the control wheel repeatedly to select the desired mode. Using the Menu: 1 During shooting, [Menu] t [Camera] t [Display Contents]. During playback, [Menu] t [Playback] t [Display Contents].
Page 30 During playback Display Info. Shows recording information. Histogram Displays the luminance distribution graphically, in addition to recording information. No Disp. Info. Does not show recording information. Note • Histogram is not displayed during following playback modes. – Movie – Panorama –...
Page 31: Flash Mode
Flash Mode 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 Attach the flash.
Page 32: Exposure Comp
Exposure Comp. You can adjust the exposure in 1/3 EV steps in a range of –2.0 EV to +2.0 EV. (Exposure Comp.) on the control wheel t desired value. Or, [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [Exposure Comp.] t desired value. Notes •...
Page 33: Drive Mode
Drive Mode You can set the drive mode, such as continuous, self-timer, or bracket shooting. (Drive Mode) on the control wheel t desired mode. Or, [Menu] t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t desired mode. (Single-shot Shoots one still image. Normal shooting mode. Adv.) (Continuous Shoots images continuously while you press and hold down the...
Page 34: Continuous Adv
Using functions in the menu Continuous Adv. Shoots images continuously while you press and hold down the shutter button. (Drive Mode) on the control wheel t [Continuous Adv.]. Or, [Menu] t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t [Continuous Adv.]. Note • You cannot use [Continuous Adv.] with the following functions: –...
Page 35: Speed Priority Cont
Speed Priority Cont. Shoots images continuously while you press and hold down the shutter button, at a higher speed than that of [Continuous Adv.]. (Drive Mode) on the control wheel t [Speed Priority Cont.]. Or, [Menu] t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t [Speed Priority Cont.]. Notes •...
Page 36 Self-timer (Drive Mode) on the control wheel t [Self-timer]. Or, [Menu] t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t [Self-timer]. 2 [Option] t desired mode. (Self-timer: Sets the 10-second delay self-timer. 10 Sec) When you press the shutter button, the self-timer lamp flashes and the audio signal sounds until the shutter operates.
Page 37 Self-timer(Cont.) Continuously shoots the number of images you have set after ten seconds. You can choose the best shot from several shots taken. (Drive Mode) on the control wheel t [Self-timer(Cont.)]. Or, [Menu] t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t [Self-timer(Cont.)]. 2 [Option] t desired mode.
Page 38: Bracket: Cont
Bracket: Cont. Shoots three images while automatically shifting the exposure from base, to darker, then to lighter. Press and hold down the shutter button until the bracket recording is completed. You can select an image that suits your intention, after recording. (Drive Mode) on the control wheel t [Bracket: Cont.].
Page 39 Remote Cdr. (NEX-5/5C) You can shoot using the SHUTTER and 2SEC (the shutter is released after two seconds) buttons on the RMT-DSLR1 Wireless Remote Commander (sold separately). Also, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the Wireless Remote Commander. (Drive Mode) on the control wheel t [Remote Cdr.]. Or, [Menu] t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t [Remote Cdr.].
Page 40: Image Index
Image Index Displays multiple images at the same time. 1 Press the (Playback) button to switch to the playback mode. 2 Press (Image Index) of the control wheel. Six-image index appears. You can switch to 12-image index; [Menu] t [Playback] t [Image Index]. 3 To return to the single-image playback, select the desired image and press the center of the control wheel.
Page 41: Intelligent Auto
Intelligent Auto The camera analyzes the subject, and allows you to shoot with appropriate settings. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Intelligent Auto]. 2 Point the camera to the subject. When the camera recognizes the scene, the Scene Recognition icon and guide appear on the screen. The camera recognizes (Night View), Night View),...
Page 42 If you shoot a still image of a subject that is difficult to focus on When the camera cannot focus on the subject automaticaly, the focus indicator blinks. Either recompose the shot or change the focus setting. Focus indicator Focus indicator Status z lit Focus locked.
Page 43: Scene Selection
Scene Selection Allows you to shoot with preset settings according to the scene. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Scene Selection] t desired mode. (Portrait) Blurs away backgrounds and sharpens the subject. Expresses skin tones softly. (Landscape) Shoots the entire range of scenery in sharp focus with vivid colors.
Page 44 (Hand-held Shoots night scenes with less noise and blur Twilight) without using a tripod. A burst of shots are taken, and image processing is applied to reduce subject blur, camera shake, and noise. Notes • In the [Night View] and [Night Portrait] modes, the shutter speed is slower, so using a tripod is recommended to prevent the image from blurring.
Page 45: Anti Motion Blur
Anti Motion Blur This is suitable for indoor shots without using the flash, to reduce the subject blur. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Anti Motion Blur]. 2 Shoot with the shutter button. The camera combines six shots at high sensitivity into one still image, so camera shake is reduced while preventing noise.
Page 46: Sweep Panorama
Sweep Panorama Allows you to create a panoramic image from composed images. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Sweep Panorama]. 2 Point the camera at the edge of the subject, then press the shutter button fully down. 3 Pan the camera to the end, following the guidance on the LCD monitor.
Page 47 Tips for shooting a panoramic image Pan the camera in an arc with a constant velocity and in the same direction as the indication on the LCD monitor. [Sweep Panorama] is better suited for still subjects, rather than moving ones. Vertical direction •...
Page 48: Manual Exposure
Manual Exposure You can shoot with the desired exposure setting by adjusting both the shutter speed and aperture. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Manual Exposure]. 2 Press the bottom of the control wheel repeatedly to select shutter speed or aperture.
Page 49 BULB You can shoot trails with long exposure. BULB is suitable for shooting trails of light, such as fireworks. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Manual Exposure]. 2 Press the bottom of the control wheel to select shutter speed. 3 Turn the control wheel to the left until [BULB] is indicated.
Page 50: Shutter Priority
Shutter Priority You can express the movement of a moving subject in various way by adjusting the shutter speed, for example, at the instant of the movement with high speed shutter, or as a trailing image with low speed shutter. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Shutter Priority] t desired value.
Page 51: Aperture Priority
Aperture Priority Blurs or sharpens things in front of and beyond the subject. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Aperture Priority] t desired value. • Smaller F-value: The subject is in focus, but things in front of and beyond the subject is blurred. •...
Page 52: Program Auto
Program Auto While exposure is adjusted by the camera automatically, you can set shooting functions such as ISO sensitivity, Creative Style, D-Range optimizer. 1 [Menu] t [Shoot Mode] t [Program Auto]. 2 Set the shooting functions to your desired settings. 3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.
Page 53: Af/Mf Select
AF/MF Select Selects auto focusing or manual focusing. 1 [Menu] t [Camera] t [AF/MF Select] t desired mode. (Autofocus) Focuses automatically. (DMF) After focusing automatically, make fine focus adjustment manually (Direct Manual Focus). Adjusts the focus manually. Turn the focusing ring right or left (Manualfocus) to make the subject look clearer.
Page 54 DMF (Direct Manual Focus) 1 [Menu] t [Camera] t [AF/MF Select] t [DMF]. 2 Press the shutter button halfway down to focus automatically. 3 Keep the shutter button halfway down, rotate the focusing ring of the lens to achieve a sharp focus. Note •...
Page 55: Autofocus Area
Autofocus Area Selects the focusing area. Use this function when it is difficult to get the proper focus in auto focus mode. 1 [Menu] t [Camera] t [Autofocus Area] t desired mode. (Multi) The camera determines which of the 25 AF areas is used for focusing.
Page 56: Autofocus Mode
Autofocus Mode Selects the focus method to suit the movement of the subject. 1 [Menu] t [Camera] t [Autofocus Mode] t desired mode. (Single-shot The camera focuses and the focus is locked when you press the shutter button halfway down. Use this when the subject is motionless.
Page 57: Precision Dig. Zoom
Precision Dig. Zoom When a single focus lens is attached, you can shoot still images while zooming in on the center portion. 1 Attach a single focus lens. 2 [Menu] t [Camera] t [Precision Dig. Zoom]. 3 Turn the control wheel and decide the zoom rate. You can zoom in up to ten times.
Page 58: Face Detection
Face Detection Detects the faces of your subjects and adjusts the focus, flash, exposure, and white balance settings automatically. You can select the priority face to be focused on. Face Detection frame (Orange) When the camera detects more than one subject, the camera will judge which is the main subject and set focus by priority.
Page 59: Smile Shutter
Smile Shutter When the camera detects a smile, the shutter is released automatically. 1 [Menu] t [Camera] t [Smile Shutter] t [On]. 2 Wait for a smile to be detected. When the smile level exceeds the b point on the indicator, the camera records images automatically.
Page 60: Smile Detection
Smile Detection Sets the sensitivity of the Smile Shutter function for detecting smiles. 1 [Menu] t [Camera] t [Smile Detection] t desired mode. (Big Smile) Detects a big smile. (Normal Smile) Detects a normal smile. (Slight Smile) Detects even a slight smile. Notes •...
Page 61: Panorama Direction
Panorama Direction Sets the direction to pan the camera when you shoot Sweep Panorama images. 1 [Menu] t [Camera] t [Panorama Direction] t desired mode. (Right) Pan the camera in the direction you set. (Left) (Up) (Down)
Page 62: Shooting Tip List
Shooting Tip List Allows you to search through all shooting tips in the camera. Use this item when you want to look at shooting tips you have seen before. 1 [Menu] t [Camera] t [Shooting Tip List]. 2 Press the left or right of the control wheel and search for the desired shooting tip.
Page 63 Image Size The image size determines the size of the image file that is recorded when you record an image. The larger the image size, the more detail will be reproduced when the image is printed on large-format paper. The smaller the image size, the more images can be recorded. 1 [Menu] t [Image Size] t [Image Size] t desired mode.
Page 64 Movie The larger the image size, the higher the image quality. NEX-5/5C Image size in [AVCHD] mode (1920 × 1080) Image size in [MP4] mode Average bit-rate (1440 × 1080) (VGA) (640 × 480) NEX-3 Image size 1280 × 720 (Fine) 1280 ×...
Page 65: Aspect Ratio
Aspect Ratio Sets the aspect ratio of still images. 1 [Menu] t [Image Size] t [Aspect Ratio] t desired mode. Standard aspect ratio. Suitable for prints. 16:9 For viewing on a high-definition TV. Note • You cannot select [Aspect Ratio] when using [Sweep Panorama].
Page 66: Raw Images
Quality Selects the compression format of still images. 1 [Menu] t [Image Size] t [Quality] t desired mode. RAW (RAW) File format: RAW (Records using the RAW compression format.) This format does not allow you to perform any digital processing on the images.
Page 67 File Format (NEX-5/5C) Selects the movie file format. 1 [Menu] t [Image Size] t [File Format] t desired mode. AVCHD This file format is suitable for viewing smooth video images on a high-definition TV. Movies shot with this camera are recorded in AVCHD format, approximately 60 fields/sec (1080 60i-compatible devices) or 50 fields/sec (1080 50i-compatible devices), in interlace mode, with Dolby Digital audio, AVCHD format.
Page 68 Sets the luminous sensitivity. 1 [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [ISO] t desired setting. (ISO AUTO) Sets the ISO sensitivity automatically. 200/400/800/1600/ You can set a faster shutter speed, and reduce image blur in dark 3200/6400/12800 locations or of moving subjects by increasing ISO sensitivity (select a larger number).
Page 69: White Balance
White Balance Adjusts the color tones according to the ambient light conditions. 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. 1 [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [White Balance] t desired mode.
Page 70: Preset White Balance
Preset white balance ( 1 [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [White Balance] t desired mode. 2 As necessary, [Option] t adjust the color tone. Adjusting it toward + turns the image reddish and adjusting it toward – turns the image bluish. C.Temp./Filter 1 [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [White Balance] t [C.Temp./Filter].
Page 71: Metering Mode
Metering Mode Selects the metering mode that sets which part of the subject to measure to determine the exposure. 1 [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [Metering Mode] t desired mode. (Multi) Measures light on each area after dividing the total area into multiple areas and determines the proper exposure of the entire screen (Multi-pattern metering).
Page 72: Flash Compensation
Flash Compensation Adjusts the amount of flash light in 1/3 EV steps in a range of –2.0 EV to +2.0 EV. Flash compensation changes the amount of flash light only. Exposure compensation changes the amount of flash light along with the change of the shutter speed and aperture.
Page 73: Dro/Auto Hdr
DRO/Auto HDR Corrects the brightness or contrast. 1 [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [DRO/Auto HDR] t desired mode. (Off) Does not use [DRO/Auto HDR]. (D-Range By dividing the image into small areas, the camera analyzes the Opt.) contrast of light and shadow between the subject and the background, producing the image with the optimal brightness and gradation.
Page 74: Auto Hdr
Auto HDR Widens the range (gradations) so that you can record from bright parts to dark parts in correct brightness (Auto High Dynamic Range). One image with proper exposure and one overlaid image are recorded. 1 [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [DRO/Auto HDR] t [Auto HDR]. 2 [Option] t desired value.
Page 75: Creative Style
Creative Style Allows you to select the desired image processing. You can adjust exposure (shutter speed and aperture) as you like with [Creative Style], unlike with [Scene Selection] where the camera adjusts the exposure. 1 [Menu] t [Brightness/Color] t [Creative Style] t desired mode. 2 When you want to adjust contrast, saturation, or sharpness, [Option] t desired setting.
Page 76: To Delete An Image
Delete Allows you to select unwanted images for deletion. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Delete] t desired mode. Multiple Img. Deletes the selected images. Press the center to confirm [Select] and [OK]. All in Folder Deletes all still images in the folder. This appears during still image playback only.
Page 77: Slide Show
Slide Show Plays back images automatically. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Slide Show] t desired mode t [OK]. Interval 1 Sec Sets the display interval of images. Appears only when playing back still images. 3 Sec 5 Sec 10 Sec 30 Sec Movie Type Selects the movie type to play back.
Page 78: Still/Movie Select
Still/Movie Select Selects still images or movies to play back. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Still/Movie Select] t desired mode. Still Displays the still image. Movie Displays the movie. Note • You cannot display still images and movies on the same index screen. Switching between the still image and the movie You can switch the image type on the image index easily.
Page 79 Image Index Selects the number of images to be displayed on the index. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Image Index] t desired mode. 6 Images Displays six images. 12 Images Displays 12 images. Switching between the still image and the movie You can switch the image type on the image index easily.
Page 80: Select Folder
Select Folder When multiple folders are created in a memory card, this selects the folder containing the still image you want to play back. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Still/Movie Select] t [Still]. 2 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Select Folder] t desired folder.
Page 81: Select Date
Select Date Movies are stored by date. You can select the date of movies to be played back. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Still/Movie Select] t [Movie]. 2 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Select Date] t desired date. Note • You cannot select this item during still image playback.
Page 82 Rotate Rotates a still image counter-clockwise. Use this to display a horizontal orientation image in vertical orientation. Once you rotate the image, the image is played back in the rotated position, even if you turn off the power. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Rotate] t press the center. The image rotates counter-clockwise.
Page 83 Protect Protects recorded images against accidental erasure. mark is displayed for registered images. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Protect] t desired mode. Multiple Img. Applies or cancels the protection of the selected images. Press the center to confirm [Select] and [OK]. Cancel All Images Cancels the protection of all still images.
Page 84: Enlarge Image
Enlarge Image You can check the focus by enlarging a portion of the playback image. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [ 2 Adjust the scaling by turning the control wheel. 3 Select the portion you want to enlarge by pressing the top/bottom/right/ left of the control wheel.
Page 85: Volume Settings
Volume Settings Adjusts the sound volume of movies in eight steps. This item appears during movie playback only. 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Volume Settings] t desired value. Adjusting the volume during playback The [Volume Settings] screen appears when you press the bottom of the control wheel while playing back movies.
Page 86: Specify Printing
Specify Printing You can specify which and how many copies of still images you shot on the memory card that you want to print out later. (Print order) mark is displayed for registered images (DPOF: Digital Print Order Format). 1 [Menu] t [Playback] t [Specify Printing] t desired setting. DPOF Setup Multiple Img.
Page 87: Af Illuminator
AF Illuminator The AF illuminator supplies fill light to focus more easily on a subject in dark surroundings. The red AF illuminator allows the camera to focus easily when the shutter button is pressed halfway, until the focus is locked. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [AF Illuminator] t desired setting.
Page 88: Red Eye Reduction
Red Eye Reduction The flash strobes two or more times before shooting to reduce the red-eye phenomenon when using the flash. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Red Eye Reduction] t desired setting. The flash always strobes to reduce the red-eye phenomenon. Does not use Red Eye Reduction.
Page 89: Auto Review
Auto Review You can check the recorded image on the LCD monitor right after the shooting. You can change the displayed time. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Auto Review] t desired setting. 10 Sec Displays for the set time. 5 Sec 2 Sec Does not display.
Page 90: Grid Line
Grid Line Sets whether the grid line is displayed or not. The grid line will help you to adjust the composition of images. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Grid Line] t desired setting. Displays the grid line. Does not display the grid line. Checking the frame for movie recording Frame for movie The frame that appears when [Grid Line] is set to [On]...
Page 91 Histogram Sets whether the histogram is displayed or not. The histogram displays the luminance distribution that shows how many pixels of a particular brightness exist in the image. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Histogram] t desired setting. Displays the histogram. Does not display the histogram.
Page 92: Mf Assist
MF Assist Enlarges the image on the screen automatically to make manual-focusing easier. This works in the [Manualfocus] or [DMF] modes. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [MF Assist] t [On]. 2 Turn the focusing ring to adjust the focus. The image is enlarged by seven times. You can enlarge the image also by 14 times. Enlarges the image.
Page 93: Color Space
Color Space The way colors are represented with combinations of numbers or the range of color reproduction is called “color space.” You can change the color space, depending on your purpose. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Color Space] t desired setting. sRGB This is the standard color space of the digital camera.
Page 94 SteadyShot Sets whether or not you use the SteadyShot function of the lens. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [SteadyShot] t desired setting. Uses SteadyShot. Does not use SteadyShot. This setting is recommended when you use a tripod. Notes • [On] is selected when using the following functions: –...
Page 95: Release W/Olens
Release w/oLens Sets whether or not the shutter can be released when no lens is attached. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Release w/oLens] t desired setting. Enable Releases the shutter when no lens is attached. Select this when you attach the camera on an astronomical telescope, etc. Disable Releases the shutter only when a lens is attached.
Page 96: Long Exposure Nr
Long Exposure NR When you set the shutter speed to a second or longer (Long exposure shooting), noise reduction is turned on for the same duration that the shutter is open. This is to reduce the grainy noise typical in a long exposure. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Long Exposure NR] t desired setting.
Page 97: High Iso Nr
High ISO NR When shooting with the high ISO, the camera reduces the noise that becomes more noticeable when the camera sensitivity is high. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [High ISO NR] t desired setting. Auto Activates high ISO noise reduction automatically. Weak Activates high ISO noise reduction moderately.
Page 98: Movie Audio Rec
Movie Audio Rec Sets whether or not you record the sound during movie recording. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Movie Audio Rec] t desired setting. Records sound (stereo). Does not record sound. Note • The sound of the lens and the camera in operation will also be recorded, when [On] is selected.
Page 99 Beep Selects the sound produced when you operate the camera. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Beep] t desired setting. AF Sound The audio signals will sound only when the subject is in focus, and during self-timer countdown. High Turns on audio signals when you press the control wheel, or soft keys.
Page 100 Language Selects the language to be used in the menu items, warnings and messages. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [ Language] t desired language.
Page 101: Date/Time Setup
Date/Time Setup Sets the date and time again. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Date/Time Setup]. 2 Set the date, time, etc. Daylight Svg. Selects [ON] or [OFF]. Date Format Selects the date and time display format. Note • The camera does not have a feature for superimposing dates on images. By using “PMB” in the CD-ROM (supplied), you can print or save images with the date.
Page 102: Area Setting
Area Setting Sets the area where you are using the camera. This allows you to set the local area when you use the camera abroad. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Area Setting] t desired setting. 2 Press the right or left of the control wheel to select an area.
Page 103: Help Guide Display
Help Guide Display You can select whether or not the help guide is displayed when you operate the camera. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Help Guide Display] t desired setting. Displays the help guide. Does not display the help guide. This is convenient when you want to perform the next operation quickly.
Page 104: Power Save
Power Save You can set time intervals for the camera to switch to power save mode. Pressing the shutter button halfway down returns the camera to the shooting mode. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Power Save] t desired setting. 1 Min Switches to power save mode after the set time.
Page 105: Lcd Brightness
LCD Brightness The brightness of the LCD monitor is automatically adjusted to the ambient lighting conditions using the light sensor (page 12). You can set the brightness of the LCD monitor manually. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [LCD Brightness] t desired setting. Auto Adjust the brightness automatically.
Page 106: Display Color
Display Color Selects the color of the LCD monitor. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Display Color] t desired setting. Black Turns to the selected color. White Blue Pink...
Page 107: Wide Image
Wide Image Selects the method used for displaying the wide images. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Wide Image] t desired setting. Full Screen Displays the wide images on the entire screen. Normal Displays the wide images and the operation information on the screen.
Page 108: Playback Display
Playback Display Selects the orientation when playing back still images recorded in the portrait position. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Playback Display] t desired setting. Auto Rotate Displays in the portrait position. Manual Rotate Displays in the landscape position. Note •...
Page 109: Ctrl For Hdmi
CTRL FOR HDMI When connecting the camera to a “BRAVIA” Sync compatible TV with an HDMI cable (sold separately), you can play back images on your camera by the TV’s remote control aiming at the TV. See page 124 on “BRAVIA” Sync. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [CTRL FOR HDMI] t desired setting.
Page 110: Usb Connection
USB Connection Selects the method used for a USB connection. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [USB Connection] t desired setting. Mass Storage Establishes a Mass Storage connection between the camera, a computer, and other USB devices. Standard mode. When you connect the camera to a computer, the AutoPlay Wizard appears, and the still images in the recording folder on the camera are imported to the computer (with Windows 7/Vista/ XP, Mac OS X).
Page 111: Cleaning Mode
Cleaning Mode Allows you to clean the image sensor. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Cleaning Mode] t [OK]. The message “After cleaning, turn camera off. Continue?” appears. 2 Confirm [OK]. The anti-dust is activated automatically. 3 Turn the camera off. 4 Detach the lens.
Page 112 Version Displays the version of your camera and lens. Confirm the version when a firmware update is released. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Version]. Note • An update can be performed only when the battery level is (three remaining battery icons) or more. We recommend that you use a sufficient battery or the AC-PW20 AC Adaptor (sold separately).
Page 113: Demo Mode
Demo Mode The [Demo Mode] function displays the movies recorded on the memory card automatically (demonstration), when the camera has not been operated for a certain time. Normally select [Off]. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Demo Mode] t desired setting. The demonstration begins automatically when the camera is not operated for about one minute.
Page 114: Reset Default
Reset Default Initializes the setting to the default setting. Even if you activate [Reset Default], the images are retained. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Reset Default] t [OK]. Notes • Be sure not to turn off the camera while resetting. •...
Page 115 Format Formats the memory card. When you use a memory card with this camera for the first time, it is recommended to format the card using the camera for stable performance of the memory card before shooting. Note that formatting permanently erases all data on the memory card, and is unrecoverable.
Page 116: File Number
File Number Selects the method for assigning file numbers to images. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [File Number] t desired setting. Series The camera does not reset numbers, and assigns numbers to files in sequence until the number reaches “9999.” Reset The camera resets numbers in the following cases and assigns numbers to files from “0001.”...
Page 117: Folder Name
Folder Name Still images you shoot are recorded in a folder that is automatically created under the DCIM folder on the memory card. You can change the folder name form. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Folder Name] t desired setting. Standard Form The folder name form is as follows: folder number + MSDCF.
Page 118: Select Shoot. Folder
Select Shoot. 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 still images. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Select Shoot. Folder] t desired folder. Notes •...
Page 119: New Folder
New Folder Creates a folder in the memory card for recording images. Images are recorded in the newly created folder until you create another folder or select another recording folder. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [New Folder] t [OK]. A new folder is created with a number incremented one higher than the largest number currently used.
Page 120: Recover Image Db
Recover Image DB When inconsistencies are found in the image database file of movies, caused by processing movies on computers, etc., movies on the memory card will not be played back in this form. If this happens, the camera repairs the file. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Recover Image DB] t [OK].
Page 121: Display Card Space
Display Card Space Displays the remaining recording time of movies on the memory card. Number of recordable still images is also displayed. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Display Card Space] t [OK].
Page 122: Upload Settings
Upload Settings Sets whether or not you use the upload function when using an Eye-Fi card (commercially available). This item appears when an Eye-Fi card is inserted in the camera. NEX-5C does not have this function. 1 [Menu] t [Setup] t [Upload Settings] t desired setting. Enables the upload function.
Page 123: Viewing Images On A
On “PhotoTV HD” This camera is compatible with the “PhotoTV HD” standard. By connecting Sony’s PhotoTV HD-compatible devices using an HDMI cable (sold separately), a whole new world of photos can be enjoyed in breathtaking Full HD quality. “PhotoTV HD” allows for a highly-detailed, photo-like expression of subtle textures and colors.
Page 124 Using “BRAVIA” Sync By connecting the camera to a TV that supports “BRAVIA” Sync using an HDMI cable (sold separately), you can operate the camera with the TV Remote Control. 1 Connect a TV that supports “BRAVIA” Sync to the camera. The input is automatically switched and the image shot with the camera appears on the TV screen.
Page 125: Using With Your Computer
Using with your computer Following applications are contained on the CD-ROM (supplied) to allow more versatile use of images shot with your camera. • Sony Image Data Suite “Image Data Converter SR” “Image Data Lightbox SR” • “PMB” (Picture Motion Browser) Note •...
Page 126 Recommended computer environment (Macintosh) The following computer environment is recommended when using the supplied software and importing images via a USB connection. OS (pre-installed) USB Connection: Mac OS X (v10.3 to v10.6) “Image Data Converter SR Ver.3”/“Image Data Lightbox SR”: Mac OS X v10.4/Mac OS X v10.5/ Mac OS X v10.6 (Snow Leopard) “Image Data CPU: Power PC G4/G5 series (1.0 GHz or faster is...
Page 127: Using The Software
2 Click [Install]. Make sure that both “Sony Image Data Suite” and “PMB” are checked and follow the instructions on the screen. • Connect the camera to the computer during the procedure following the instructions on the screen (page 130).
Page 128 You can either save the image as RAW format or save it in the general file format. To use “Image Data Converter SR” Refer to Help. Click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Help] t [Image Data Converter SR Ver.3]. “Image Data Converter SR” support page (English only) http://www.sony.co.jp/ids-se/...
Page 129 • To display an image with “Image Data Converter SR” and make adjustments to it. To use “Image Data Lightbox SR” Refer to Help. Click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Help] t [Image Data Lightbox SR]. “Image Data Lightbox SR” support page (English only) http://www.sony.co.jp/ids-se/...
Page 130: Connecting The Camera To The Computer
Do not delete or copy AVCHD format movies on the memory card from the computer. Sony is not held liable for consequences resulting from such operations via the computer (NEX-5/5C only).
Page 131: Deleting The Usb Connection
Deleting the USB connection Perform the procedures from step 1 to 3 below before: • Disconnecting the USB cable. • Removing the memory card. • Turning off the camera. 1 Double-click the disconnect icon on the tasktray. 2 Click (USB Mass Storage Device) t [Stop].
Page 132: Creating A Movie Disc (Nex-5/5C)
Notes • If you use a Sony DVDirect (DVD Writer), you can transfer data by inserting a memory card into the memory card slot of the DVD writer, or connecting your camera to the DVD writer with a USB cable.
Page 133 • You can play a high definition image quality ( playback devices, such as a Sony Blu-ray disc player and a PlayStation®3. You cannot play the disc on ordinary DVD players. Standard definition image quality (STD) movie converted from high definition image quality (HD) movie can be recorded on DVD media, such as DVD-R discs, and a standard image quality (STD) disc is created.
Page 134: Creating An Avchd Format Disc
Creating an AVCHD format disc You can create a high definition image quality (HD) AVCHD format disc from AVCHD format movies imported to a computer using the supplied software “PMB.” 1 Turn on your computer and place an empty disc on the DVD drive. 2 Start “PMB.”...
Page 135 Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc You can create a standard definition image quality (STD) disc from AVCHD format movies imported to a computer using supplied software “PMB.” 1 Turn on your computer and place an empty disc on the DVD drive. •...
Page 136: Printing Still Images
Printing still images You can print still images using the following methods. • Printing directly using a printer which supports your memory card type For details, see the operating instructions supplied with the printer. • Printing using a computer You can import images to a computer using the supplied “PMB” software and print the images.
Page 137: Troubleshooting
2 Remove the battery pack, wait for about one minute, re-insert the battery pack, then turn on the power. 3 Reset the settings (page 114). 4 Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Battery pack and power The battery pack cannot be installed.
Page 138 battery pack. Slow flashing indicates that charging is suspended because the ambient temperature is outside the suitable range for charging the battery pack. Charging will resume and the CHARGE lamp will be lit when the ambient temperature returns to within the suitable temperature. •...
Page 139: Viewing Images
The image taken with the flash is too dark. • If the subject is beyond the flash range (the distance that the flash can reach), the pictures will be dark because the flash light does not reach the subject. If the ISO is changed, the flash range also changes with it.
Page 140: Deleting/Editing Images
Deleting/Editing images The image cannot be deleted. • Cancel the protection (page 83). The image was deleted by mistake. • Once you have deleted an image, you cannot restore it. We recommend that you protect images that you do not want to delete (page 83). A DPOF mark cannot be put.
Page 141: Memory Card
Memory card Cannot insert a memory card. • Insertion direction of the memory card is wrong. Insert it in the correct direction. Cannot record on a memory card. • The memory card is full. Delete unnecessary images (pages 28, 76). •...
Page 142 • If an AC Adaptor (sold separately) is used, disconnect the power cord. Connect the power cord and turn on the camera again. If the camera does not work after doing these solutions, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.
Page 143: Warning Messages
Warning messages If the following messages appear, follow the instructions below. Incompatible battery. Use correct model. • An incompatible battery pack is being used. Set Area/Date/Time. • Set the date and time. If you have not used the camera for a long time, charge the internal rechargeable battery.
Page 144 • 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 this icon does not disappear, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.
Page 145 Unable to magnify. Unable to rotate image. • Images recorded with other cameras may not be enlarged or rotated. No images selected. • You attempted to print without specifying images. No images changed. • You attempted to execute DPOF without specifying images. Cannot create more folders.
Page 146: Using The Camera Abroad
Others Using the camera abroad You can use the battery charger (supplied), and the AC-PW20 AC Adaptor (sold separately) in any country or region where the power supply is within 100 V to 240 V AC, 50 Hz/60 Hz. Note •...
Page 147: Memory Card
Memory card You can use following memory cards with this camera: “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media, SD memory card, SDHC memory card, and SDXC memory card. You cannot use a MultiMedia Card. Notes • Memory card formatted with a computer are not guaranteed to operate with the camera. •...
Page 148 Supports high-speed data transfer using a parallel interface. When using “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media to record movies, only those marked with Mark2 can be used. Notes on using “Memory Stick Micro” media (sold separately) • This product is compatible with “Memory Stick Micro” media (“M2”). “M2” is an abbreviation for “Memory Stick Micro”...
Page 149: Infolithium" Battery Pack
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack Your camera operates only with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack NP-FW50. You cannot use any other battery packs. “InfoLITHIUM” W series battery packs have the mark. An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions for communicating information related to operating conditions with the camera.
Page 150 On battery life • The battery life is limited. Battery capacity decreases over time and through repeated use. If decreased usage time between charges becomes significant, it is probably time to replace it with a new one. • The battery life varies according to how it is stored and the operating conditions and environment in which each battery pack is used.
Page 151: Battery Charger
Battery charger • Only NP-FW type battery packs (and no others) can be charged in the battery charger (supplied). Batteries other than the specified kind may leak, overheat, or explode if you attempt to charge them, posing a risk of injury from electrocution and burns. •...
Page 152: Mount Adaptor
Adaptor. Notes • You may not be able to use the Mount Adaptor with certain lenses. Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility on compatible lenses. • The continuous shooting speed of still images will be slower.
Page 153: Avchd Format (Nex-5/5C)
AVCHD format (NEX-5/5C) The AVCHD format is a high definition digital video camera format used to record a high definition (HD) signal of either the 1080i specification using efficient data compression coding technology. The MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format is adopted to compress video data, and the Dolby Digital or Linear PCM system is used to compress audio data.
Page 154: Cleaning
Cleaning Cleaning the camera • Do not touch the inside of the camera, such as lens contacts. Blow away dust from inside the mount using a commercially available blower*. For details on cleaning the image sensor, see page 111. * Do not use a spray blower. Using one may cause a malfunction. •...
Page 155: Index
Index Index AdobeRGB ... 93 AF Illuminator ... 87 AF/MF Select ... 53 Anti Motion Blur ... 45 Aperture ... 51 Aperture Priority ... 51 Area Setting ... 102 Aspect Ratio ... 65 Auto HDR ... 74 Auto Review ... 89 Autoflash ...
Page 156 Icons ... 15 Identifying parts ... 11 Image Data Converter SR ... 128 Image Data Lightbox SR ... 129 Image Index ... 40, 79 Image Size ... 63 “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ... 149 Install ... 127 Intelligent Auto ... 24, 41 ISO ...
Page 157 Shutter Priority ... 50 Shutter speed ... 50 Single-shot AF ... 56 Slide Show ... 77 Slow Sync..31 Smile Detection ... 60 Smile Shutter ... 59 Soft keys ... 18 Specify Printing ... 86 Speed Priority Cont..35 Sports Action ...
Page 158 Notes on the License “C Library”, “Expat”, “zlib”, “dtoa”, “pcre”, and “libjpeg” software are provided in the camera. We provide this software based on license agreements with their owners of copyright. Based on requests by the owners of copyright of these software applications, we have an obligation to inform you of the following.
Page 159 GPL/LGPL. Source code is provided on the web. Use the following URL to download it. http://www.sony.net/Products/Linux/ We would prefer you do not contact us about the contents of source code.

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