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Sony a390 Instruction Manual

Digital single lens reflex camera
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Printed using VOC (Volatile Organic
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Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera
Instruction Manual
DSLR-A390
Preparing the camera
Before your operation
Shooting images
Using the shooting
function
Using the viewing
function
Changing your setup
Viewing images on a
computer
Printing images
A-mount
®

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Summary of Contents for Sony a390

  • Page 1 Printing images Additional information on this product and Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera answers to frequently asked questions can be A-mount Instruction Manual found at our Customer Support Website. DSLR-A390 Printed using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. ®...
  • Page 2 • Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire. • Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. • Be sure to charge the battery pack using a genuine Sony battery charger or a device that can charge the battery pack.
  • Page 3 • Keep the battery pack dry. UL is an internationally recognized safety • Replace only with the same or equivalent organization. type recommended by Sony. The UL Mark on the product means it has • Dispose of used battery pack promptly been UL Listed.
  • Page 4 Notice for the customers in the digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the countries applying EU Directives FCC Rules. The manufacturer of this product is Sony These limits are designed to provide Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku reasonable protection against harmful Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan.
  • Page 5 Disposal of Old Electrical & Disposal of waste batteries Electronic Equipment (Applicable in (applicable in the European Union the European Union and other and other European countries with European countries with separate separate collection systems) collection systems) This symbol on the battery or on the packaging indicates that the battery provided with this product shall not be treated as household waste.
  • Page 6 If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.

  • Page 7: Notes On Using Your Camera

    Notes on using your camera Shooting procedure effect by using the “Pixel mapping” function (page 156). • This camera has two modes for shooting: the Live View mode using the LCD monitor, and the viewfinder mode using the viewfinder (OVF). •...
  • Page 8 On the data specifications described in this Instruction Manual The data on performance and specifications is defined under the following conditions, except as described in this Instruction Manual: at an ordinary ambient temperature of 25ºC (77°F), and using a fully charged battery pack.

  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Notes on using your camera ..........7 Preparing the Checking the accessories supplied ........13 camera Preparing the battery pack ..........14 Attaching a lens ............... 20 Inserting a memory card ..........22 Preparing the camera ............25 Using the accessories supplied ........
  • Page 10 Shooting an image the way you want it (Exposure mode) ..................56 Shooting with program auto ........58 Shooting by controlling the blur of the background (Aperture priority) ..........59 Shooting a moving subject with various expressions (Shutter speed priority) ........61 Shooting with the exposure adjusted manually (Manual exposure) ..........
  • Page 11 Setting ISO ..............90 Adjusting the color tones (White balance) ...... 91 Adjusting the white balance to suit a specific light source (Auto/Preset white balance) ......91 Registering the color tones (Custom white balance) .. 92 Image processing ............. 94 Correcting the brightness of the image (D-Range Optimizer) ............
  • Page 12 Others Specifications ..............148 Troubleshooting ............. 152 Warning messages ............162 Precautions ..............165 Index ................167...

  • Page 13: Preparing The Checking The Accessories Supplied

    Preparing the camera Checking the accessories supplied The number in parentheses indicates the number of pieces. • BC-VH1 Battery charger (1) • Body cap (1) (Attached on the camera) • Power cord (mains lead) (1) (not • Eyecup (1) (Attached on the supplied in the U.S.A.

  • Page 14: Camera Preparing The Battery Pack

    Preparing the battery pack When using the camera for the first time, be sure to charge the NP-FH50 “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 Connect the battery charger to the For customers in the U.S.A. and Canada wall outlet (wall socket). Plug Light on: Charging Light off: Normal charge completed One hour after the lamp is turned off: Full To the wall outlet (wall charge completed socket) CHARGE lamp...
  • Page 16 • When the CHARGE lamp flashes fast, remove the battery pack being charged, and then insert the same battery pack into the battery charger securely again. When the CHARGE lamp flashes fast again, this may indicate a battery error or that a battery pack other than the specified type has been inserted.
  • Page 17 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. Lock lever 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 18 To check the remaining battery level Set the power switch to ON and check the level on the LCD monitor. “Battery exhausted” Battery level You cannot shoot High any more pictures. What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions for exchanging information related to operating conditions with your camera.
  • Page 19 • The battery life varies according to how it is stored and the operating conditions and environment in which each battery pack is used. How to store the battery pack If the battery pack is not to be used for a long time, fully charge it and then fully use it up once a year on your camera before storing the battery pack in a dry, cool place to prolong the battery life.

  • Page 20: Attaching A Lens

    Attaching a lens Remove the body cap from the camera and the packaging lid from the rear of the lens. • When changing the lens, quickly Body cap change the lens away from dusty locations so as to keep dust or debris Packaging lid from getting inside the camera.
  • Page 21 To remove the lens Press the lens release button all the way in and turn the lens counterclockwise until it stops. Lens release button Replace the packaging lid on the lens and attach the body cap to the camera. • Before you attach them, remove dust from them.

  • Page 22: Inserting A Memory Card

    Inserting a memory card Only “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media, SD memory cards and SDHC memory cards can be used with this camera. A MultiMediaCard cannot be used with this camera. The “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media and “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media are referred to as the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”...
  • Page 23 Close the memory card cover. To remove the memory card Check that the access lamp is not lit, then open the memory card cover, and push the memory card once. Access lamp Notes on using memory cards • Do not strike, bend or drop the memory card. •...
  • Page 24 • The “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media with a capacity up to 32 GB or the SD memory cards with a capacity up to 32 GB have been confirmed to operate properly with this camera. • The memory cards formatted with a computer are not guaranteed to operate with this camera.

  • Page 25: 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 control button.
  • Page 26 Verify that [OK] is selected, then press the center of the control button. To cancel the date/time setting operation Press the MENU button. To set up the date/time again MENU button t 2 t [Date/Time setup]...

  • Page 27: Using The Accessories Supplied

    Using the accessories supplied This section describes how to use the shoulder strap, the eyepiece cover, and eyecup. The other accessories are described in the following pages. • Rechargeable battery pack (page 14) • Battery charger (page 14) • Power cord (mains lead) (not supplied in the U.S.A. and Canada) (page 14) •...
  • Page 28 Using the eyepiece cover and eyecup You can prevent light from entering through the viewfinder and affecting the exposure. When the shutter is released without the use of the viewfinder in viewfinder mode, as in shooting with the self-timer, attach the eyepiece cover.

  • Page 29: Checking The Number Of Recordable Images

    The table shows the approximate number of images that can be recorded on a memory card formatted with this camera. The values are defined using Sony standard memory cards for testing. The values may vary depending on the shooting conditions.
  • Page 30 SD memory card (Units: Images) Capacity 16GB 32GB Size Standard 1081 2177 4421 8889 Fine 1564 3176 6386 RAW & JPEG 1191 1465 * When [Aspect ratio] is set to [16:9], you can record more images than the numbers shown in the table above. However, if it is set to [RAW], the number is the same as that of the [3:2] aspect ratio.

  • Page 31: Cleaning

    Cleaning Cleaning the LCD monitor Wipe the screen surface with a commercially available LCD cleaning kit to remove fingerprints, dust, etc. Cleaning the lens • When cleaning the lens surface, remove dust using a commercially available 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 32 Cleaning the image sensor If dust or debris enters the camera and lands on the image sensor (the part that acts as the film), 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 33 Detach the lens (page 21). 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 34: Before Your Identifying Parts And Screen Indicators

    Before your operation Identifying parts and screen indicators See the pages in parentheses for details of operation. Front side Shutter button (47) Focus mode switch (75, 80) * Do not directly touch these Power switch (25) parts. Control dial (60, 121) Self-timer lamp (98) Lens contacts* Remote sensor...

  • Page 35: Rear Side

    Rear side Auto-lock Accessory Shoe (85) Control button When the menu is turned on: v/ Viewfinder* (67) V/b/B (39) MENU button (41) When the menu is turned off: DISP (38, 69, 102)/ (97)/ Eyepiece sensors (67, 125) ISO (90)/ (82) LCD monitor (37, 43, 102, 106) (Delete) button (110) Light sensor (124)

  • Page 36: Sides/Bottom

    Sides/Bottom HDMI terminal (112) Tripod receptacle Memory card switch • Use a tripod with a screw length of less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch). Memory card cover You will be unable to firmly secure the camera to tripods “Memory Stick PRO Duo” having screws longer than 5.5 media insertion slot (22) mm (7/32 inch), and may...

  • Page 37: Lcd Monitor

    LCD monitor The indicators on the monitor are displayed as follows in Live View mode. For the indicators in viewfinder mode, see page 70. Display Indication Display Indication Remaining battery (18) Drive mode (97) ×1.4 Smart teleconverter (81) Image quality (117) Histogram (87) Focus mode (78) Image size (116)/Aspect...
  • Page 38 Display Indication Focus (76) 1/125 Shutter speed (61) F3.5 Aperture (59) EV scale (64, 100) Camera shake warning (45) SteadyShot scale (45) To switch the recording information display Each time you press DISP on the control button, the screen changes as follows. Indicators on Histogram on Indicators off...

  • Page 39: Selecting A Function/Setting

    Selecting a function/setting You can select a function for shooting or playback from the menu list. To display the menu list, press the control button, Fn (Function) button, or MENU button. Example: When the Fn button is pressed. From the menu list, use the control button to move the cursor to the setting of your choice and execute the selection.

  • Page 40: The Functions Selected By The Control Button

    Select [White balance] with v/V/ b/B on the control button, then press the center z to execute. Following the operation guide, select and execute the desired function. For example, to change , select with v/V, adjust the value to +/– with b/B, then press the center z to execute.

  • Page 41: The Functions Selected By The Fn (Function) Button

    • Continuous adv. (page 97) • Self-timer (page 98) • Self-timer(Cont.) (page 98) • Bracket: Cont. (page 99) • Remote Commander (page 101) The functions selected by the Fn (Function) button This button calls up the screens that are used for setting up or executing functions used frequently in shooting or viewing.
  • Page 42 Playback menu Delete (110) Format (119) Slide show (105) Protect (109) Specify Printing (143) PlaybackDisplay (102) Setup menu LCD brightness (124) Date/Time setup (123) Power Save (LV) (122) Language (123) Power Save (OVF) (122) File number (118) CTRL FOR HDMI (114) Folder name (118) Display Color (122) Select folder (119)

  • Page 43: Shooting Images Adjusting The Angle Of The Lcd Monitor

    Shooting images Adjusting the angle of the LCD monitor You can adjust the angle of the LCD monitor to meet various shooting situations. You can shoot from various shooting positions. Low position High position Adjust the LCD monitor to an easily viewable angle.

  • Page 44: Shooting An Image Without Camera Shake

    Shooting an image without camera shake “Camera shake” refers to unwanted movement of the camera that occurs after the shutter button has been pressed, resulting in a blurred image. To reduce camera shake, follow the instructions below. Correct posture Stabilize your upper body and take a position that keeps the camera from moving.

  • Page 45: Using The Steadyshot Function

    Point Lightly tuck your elbows against your body. When shooting in a kneeling position, steady your upper body by placing your elbow on your knee. Camera shake warning indicator Due to potential camera shake, the (Camera shake warning) indicator flashes. In this case, use a tripod or the flash.

  • Page 46: Using A Tripod

    Note • The SteadyShot function may not work optimally when the power has just been turned on or when the shutter button has been pressed all the way down without stopping halfway. Wait for the (SteadyShot scale) indicator scale to go down, and then press the shutter button down slowly.

  • Page 47: Shooting With The Automatic Setting

    Shooting with the automatic setting The “AUTO” mode allows you to easily shoot any subject under any conditions because the camera makes appropriate judgments on the situation to adjust the settings. Select when shooting in a location where the use of a flash is restricted. When you turn the mode dial, the explanation of the selected mode and methods of shooting are displayed on the screen (Help Guide disp.).
  • Page 48 Press the shutter button halfway down to focus. When the focus is confirmed, z or (Focus indicator) lights up (page 76). Focus indicator Press the shutter button fully down to shoot. • Pressing the shutter button after the (SteadyShot scale) indicator becomes low makes the SteadyShot function more effective.

  • Page 49: Shooting With A Suitable Setting For The Subject (Scene Selection)

    Shooting with a suitable setting for the subject (Scene Selection) Selecting an appropriate mode for the subject or the shooting conditions allows you to shoot the image with a suitable setting for the subject. When you turn the mode dial, the explanation of the selected mode and methods of shooting are displayed on the screen (Help Guide disp.).

  • Page 50: Taking Portrait Photos

    Taking portrait photos This mode is suitable for Blurring away backgrounds and sharpening the subject. Expressing skin tones softly. Set the mode dial to (Portrait). Shooting techniques • To blur the background more, set the lens to the telephoto position. •...

  • Page 51: Taking Landscape Photos

    Taking landscape photos This mode is suitable for Shooting the entire range of scenery in sharp focus with vivid colors. Set the mode dial to (Landscape). Shooting techniques • To accentuate the openness of the scenery, set the lens to wide angle. •...

  • Page 52: Taking Small-Subject Photos

    Taking small-subject photos This mode is suitable for Shooting close subjects such as flowers, insects, dishes, or small goods. Set the mode dial to (Macro). Shooting techniques • Get close to the subject and shoot at the minimum distance of the lens. •...

  • Page 53: Taking Moving-Subject Photos

    Taking moving-subject photos This mode is suitable for Shooting moving subjects outdoors or in bright places. Set the mode dial to (Sports Action). Shooting techniques • The camera shoots images continuously while the shutter button is pressed. • Press and hold the shutter button halfway down until the right moment. •...

  • Page 54: Taking Sunset Photos

    Taking sunset photos This mode is suitable for Shooting the red of the sunset beautifully. Set the mode dial to (Sunset). Shooting techniques • Used to shoot an image accentuating the red color compared with other modes. This is also suitable for shooting the beautiful red of the sunrise. •...

  • Page 55: Taking Night View Photos

    Taking night view photos This mode is suitable for Shooting night scenes at a distance without losing the dark atmosphere of the surroundings. Set the mode dial to (Night Port./View). Set the flash mode to (Flash Off) when you shoot a night view without persons (page 82).

  • Page 56: Shooting An Image The Way You Want It (Exposure Mode)

    Shooting an image the way you want it (Exposure mode) With a single lens reflex camera, you can adjust the shutter speed (how long the shutter is open) and aperture (the range that is in focus: depth of field) to enjoy a variety of photographic expressions. For example, you can use a fast shutter speed to shoot the ephemeral shape of a wave, or you can accentuate a flower by opening the aperture to put everything in front of and beyond the flower out of focus.
  • Page 57 When you turn the mode dial, the explanation of the selected mode and methods of shooting are displayed on the screen (Help Guide disp.). You can clear the Help Guide (page 122).

  • Page 58: Shooting With Program Auto

    Shooting with program auto This mode is suitable for Using the automatic exposure, while keeping the custom settings for ISO sensitivity, Creative Style, D-Range optimizer, etc. Set the mode dial to P. Set the shooting functions to your desired settings (pages 75 to 101).

  • Page 59: Shooting By Controlling The Blur Of The Background (Aperture Priority)

    Shooting by controlling the blur of the background (Aperture priority) This mode is suitable for Putting the subject in sharp focus and blur everything in front of and beyond the subject. Opening the aperture narrows the range that is in focus.
  • Page 60 Select the aperture value (F- number) with the control dial. • Smaller F-number: The foreground and background of the subject are blurred. Larger F-number: The subject and its foreground and background are all in focus. • You cannot check the blurring of an image on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder.

  • Page 61: Shooting A Moving Subject With Various Expressions (Shutter Speed Priority)

    Shooting a moving subject with various expressions (Shutter speed priority) This mode is suitable for Shooting a moving subject at a moment in time. Use a faster shutter speed to crisply shoot an instant of the movement. Tracing the movement to express the dynamism and flow.
  • Page 62 Select the shutter speed with the control dial. Shutter speed Adjust the focus and shoot the subject. The aperture is automatically adjusted to obtain correct exposure. • When the camera judges that the proper exposure is not obtained with the Aperture (F-number) selected shutter speed, the aperture value flashes.

  • Page 63: Shooting With The Exposure Adjusted Manually (Manual Exposure)

    Shooting with the exposure adjusted manually (Manual exposure) This mode is suitable for Shooting with the desired exposure setting by adjusting both the shutter speed and aperture. Set the mode dial to M. Rotate the control dial to adjust the shutter speed, and while pressing the button, rotate the control dial to adjust the aperture.
  • Page 64 Shoot the image after the exposure is set. • Check the exposure value on the EV scale. Toward +: Images become brighter. Toward –: Images become darker. Standard value The b B arrow appears if the set exposure is beyond the range of the EV scale.

  • Page 65: Shooting Trails With Long Exposure (Bulb)

    Shooting trails with long exposure (BULB) This mode is suitable for Shooting trails of light, such as fireworks. Shooting trails of stars. Set the mode dial to M. Rotate the control dial to the left until [BULB] is indicated. BULB While pressing the button, rotate the control dial to adjust...
  • Page 66 Press the shutter button halfway down to adjust the focus. Press and hold the shutter button for the duration of the shooting. As long as the shutter button is pressed, the shutter remains open. Shooting techniques • Use a tripod. •...

  • Page 67: Shooting With The Viewfinder (Ovf)

    Shooting with the viewfinder (OVF) You can select either the LCD monitor (Live View) or the viewfinder (OVF) to shoot images. Switching to the viewfinder Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to “OVF.” The screen status changes as follows: Viewfinder display LCD monitor display When you look into the viewfinder, the subject inside the focus area comes into focus automatically (Eye-Start AF).

  • Page 68: Adjusting The Focus Of The Finder (Diopter Adjustment)

    Adjusting the focus of the finder (diopter adjustment) Adjust the diopter-adjustment dial to your eyesight until the indicators appear clearly in the viewfinder. • Turn the dial toward + when you are far- sighted, toward – when you are near-sighted. •...

  • Page 69: Switching The Recording Information Display (Disp)

    Switching the recording information display (DISP) Press DISP on the control button to switch between the Graphic Display and the Standard Display. When you rotate the camera to a vertical position, the display automatically rotates to adjust to the camera position. Graphic Display Standard Display (Default setting)

  • Page 70: Lcd Monitor (Graphic Display)

    LCD monitor (Graphic Display) The Graphic Display graphically shows the shutter speed and aperture value and clearly illustrates how the exposure works. In AUTO or Scene Selection mode, only the items that can be set are displayed. See the pages in parentheses for details of operation.
  • Page 71 Display Indication Remaining battery (18) Image quality (117) Image size (116)/Aspect ratio (116) Memory card (22) Remaining number of recordable images (29)

  • Page 72: Lcd Monitor (Standard Display)

    LCD monitor (Standard Display) See pages in parentheses for details of operation. In AUTO or Scene Selection mode In P/A/S/M mode Display Indication Display Indication Focus mode (78) P A S M Mode dial (47 – 66) AF area (79) Metering mode (89) 1/125 Shutter speed (61)
  • Page 73 Display Indication Remaining battery (18) Image quality (117) Image size (116)/Aspect ratio (116) Memory card (22) Remaining number of recordable images (29)

  • Page 74: Viewfinder

    Viewfinder * When using the HVL-F58AM/HVL- F42AM Flash (sold separately), you Display Indication can shoot with the High-speed sync AF area (79) feature at any shutter speed. For details, refer to the operating Shooting area for aspect ratio 16:9 (116) instructions supplied with the flash.

  • Page 75: Using The

    Using the shooting function Selecting the focus method There are two methods for adjusting the focus: autofocus and manual focus. Depending on the lens, the method for switching between the auto focus and manual focus is different. The switch to be To switch to auto To switch to manual The type of lens...
  • Page 76 Press the shutter button halfway Focus area sensor down to check the focus and shoot the image. • When the focus is confirmed, the focus indicator changes to z or (below). • The green frames are indicated at an Focus area area where the focus has been confirmed.

  • Page 77: Shooting With Your Desired Composition (Focus-Lock)

    To measure the exact distance to the subject mark located on the top of the camera shows the location of the image sensor*. When you measure the exact distance between the camera and the subject, refer to the position of the horizontal line.

  • Page 78: Selecting The Focus Method To Suit The Movement Of The Subject (Autofocus Mode)

    Selecting the focus method to suit the movement of the subject (Autofocus mode) Fn button t [Autofocus mode] t Select the desired setting (Single-shot The camera focuses and the focus is locked when you press the shutter button halfway down. (Automatic AF) The [Autofocus mode] is switched between Single-shot AF and Continuous AF according to the movement of the subject.

  • Page 79: Selecting The Focus Area (Af Area)

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

  • Page 80: Adjusting The Focus Manually (Manual Focus)

    Adjusting the focus manually (Manual focus) When it is difficult to get the proper focus in autofocus mode, you can adjust the focus manually. Set the focus mode switch on the lens to MF. When the lens is not equipped with the focus mode switch, set the focus mode switch on the camera to MF.

  • Page 81: Zooming In In One Step

    Zooming in in one step You can zoom in to the center of an image using the smart teleconverter (Digital zoom) and record the image. Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to “LIVE VIEW.” Press the button. button • Each time you press the button, the zoom scaling changes as follows: Approx.

  • Page 82: Using The Flash

    Using the flash In a dark location, using the flash allows you to shoot the subject brightly, and it also helps to prevent camera shake. When shooting into the sun, you can use the flash to shoot a bright image of the backlit subject. When the mode dial is set to AUTO, the flash pops up automatically if it is dark or you are shooting into the light.
  • Page 83 (Flash Off) Does not fire even if it is dark. (Autoflash) Fires if it is dark or against light. (Fill-flash) Fires every time you trigger the shutter. (Slow sync.) Fires every time you trigger the shutter. Slow sync shooting allows you to shoot a clear image of both the subject and the background by slowing the shutter speed.
  • Page 84 The flash range The range of the built-in flash depends on the ISO sensitivity and aperture value. Refer to the following table. Aperture F2.8 F4.0 F5.6 AUTO 1.4 – 7.1 m (4.6 – 23 1 – 5 m (3.3 – 16 1 –...

  • Page 85: Performing Wireless Flash Shooting

    Performing wireless flash shooting With an external wireless flash (sold separately), you can shoot with the flash without a cord when the external flash is not attached to the camera. By changing the position of the flash, you can shoot an image with a three dimensional feel by highlighting the contrast of light and shadow on the subject.

  • Page 86: Adjusting The Brightness Of The Image (Exposure, Flash Compensation, Metering)

    Adjusting the brightness of the image (Exposure, Flash compensation, Metering) Using brightness compensation for the entire image (Exposure compensation) Except for recording mode M, the exposure is automatically selected (Automatic exposure). Based on the exposure acquired by the automatic exposure, you can perform exposure compensation by shifting the exposure to either the + side or the –...
  • Page 87 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject. Shooting techniques • Adjust the compensation level by checking the recorded image. • Using bracket shooting, you can shoot multiple images with the exposure shifted to the plus or minus sides (page 99). Note •...

  • Page 88: Adjusting The Amount Of Flash Light (Flash Compensation)

    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 89: Selecting The Method For Measuring The Brightness Of A Subject (Metering Mode)

    Notes • This item cannot be set when the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection. • If you have adjusted the flash level, appears on the LCD monitor/in the viewfinder when the built-in flash is pulled up. When you adjust it, be careful not to forget to reset the value.

  • Page 90: 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 ISO on the control button to display the ISO screen. Select the desired value with v/V on the control button. •...

  • Page 91: Adjusting The Color Tones (White Balance)

    Adjusting the color tones (White balance) The color tone of the subject changes depending on the characteristics of the light source. The table below shows how the color tone changes based on various light sources, compared with a subject that appears white under the sunlight.

  • Page 92: Registering The Color Tones (Custom White Balance)

    AWB (Auto WB) The camera automatically detects a light source and adjusts the color tones. (Daylight) If you select an option to suit a specific light source, the color tones are adjusted for the light source (preset white balance). (Shade) (Cloudy) (Tungsten) (Fluorescent)
  • Page 93 Press the center of the control button. The monitor returns to the recording information display with the memorized custom white balance setting retained. • The custom white balance setting registered in this operation is effective until a new setting is registered. Note •...

  • Page 94: Image Processing

    Image processing Correcting the brightness of the image (D-Range Optimizer) Fn button t [D-RangeOptimizer] t Select the desired setting (Off) No optimization. (Standard) When there is a sharp contrast of light and shadow between the subject and the background, which is common when shooting into the sun, the camera attenuates the contrast across the entire image to produce an image with proper brightness and contrast.
  • Page 95 (Standard) For shooting various scenes with rich gradation and beautiful colors. (Vivid) The saturation and contrast are heightened for shooting striking images of colorful scenes and subjects such as flowers, spring greenery, blue sky, or ocean views. (Portrait) For shooting the skin color in a soft tone, ideally suited to shooting portraits.

  • Page 96: Changing The Range Of Color Reproduction (Color Space)

    Changing the range of color reproduction (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. MENU button t 2 t [Color Space] t Select the desired setting sRGB...

  • Page 97: Selecting The Drive Mode

    Selecting the drive mode This camera has five drive modes, such as single-shot advanced, and continuous advanced. Use them to suit your purpose. Shooting single shot This mode is for normal shooting. on the control button t (Single-shot adv.) Note •...

  • Page 98: Using The Self-Timer

    Adjust the focus and shoot the subject. • When you press and hold the shutter button, the recording continues. The maximum number of continuous shots The number of continuous shooting images obtainable has an upper limit. Fine/Standard No limit (Until the memory card is full) RAW &...

  • Page 99: Shooting Images With The Exposure Shifted (Exposure Bracket)

    Adjust the focus and shoot the subject. • 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. To cancel the self-timer Press on the control button.
  • Page 100 * (Bracket: Shoots three images with the exposure shifted by a selected Cont.) step. Press and hold the shutter button until the recording stops. When the flash is fired, press the shutter button shot by shot. * _ EV displayed with is the step currently selected.

  • Page 101: Shooting With The Remote Commander

    • In viewfinder mode, if the shutter button is pressed halfway down and released, “br 1” appears. “Fbr 1” appears for the flash bracket. When flash bracket shooting starts, it indicates what number the next frame is, for instance, “Fbr 2,” “Fbr 3.” Shooting with the Remote Commander You can shoot using the SHUTTER and 2SEC (the shutter is released after 2 seconds) buttons on the RMT-DSLR1 Wireless Remote Commander...

  • Page 102: Using The Viewing Playing Back Images

    Using the viewing function Playing back images The last recorded image is displayed on the LCD monitor. Press the button. button Select an image with b/B on the control button. To return to the shooting mode Press the button again. To switch the recording data display Press DISP on the control button.
  • Page 103 Rotating an image Fn button t [Rotate] Press the center of the control button. The image is rotated counter-clockwise. When you want to do another rotation, repeat step 2. • Once you rotate the image, the image is played back in the rotated position, even if you turn off the power.
  • Page 104 Select the portion you want to enlarge with v/V/b/B on the control button. To cancel the enlarged playback Press the button so that the image returns to the normal size. Scaling range The scaling range is as follows. Image size Scaling range Approx.
  • Page 105 Playing back images automatically (Slide show) The slide show can be operated either using the Fn button or the MENU button. Here operation using the Fn button is described. Fn button t [Slide show]t [OK] Plays back recorded images in order (Slide show). The slide show automatically stops after all the images have been played back.

  • Page 106: Function Checking The Information Of Recorded Images

    Checking the information of recorded images Each time you press DISP on the control button, the information display changes (page 102). Basic information display Display Indication Display Indication NO CARD “No card” warning Memory card (22) 100-0003 Folder - file number (135) Protect (109) DPOF3...
  • Page 107 Histogram display Display Indication –0.3 Display Indication Flash compensation (88) Metering mode (89) Memory card (22) 35mm 100-0003 Focal length (150) Folder - file number (135) Creative Style (94) Protect (109) DPOF3 DPOF set (143) Image quality (117) White balance (Auto, 5500K M1 Preset, Color temperature, Color filter)
  • Page 108 About the flashing segments on the histogram display When the image has a high-key or low- Flashing key portion, that portion is flashed on the R (Red) histogram display (Luminance limit Luminance warning). B (Blue) G (Green)

  • Page 109: Protecting Images (Protect)

    Protecting images (Protect) You can protect images against accidental erasure. The protect function can be operated either using the Fn button or the MENU button. Here operation using the Fn button is described. Protecting selected images/canceling the protection of the selected images Fn button t [Protect] t [Marked images] Select the image you want to...

  • Page 110: Deleting Images (Delete)

    Deleting images (Delete) Once you have deleted an image, you cannot restore it. Check whether to delete the image or not beforehand. The delete function can be operated either from the Fn button or from the MENU button. Here operation using the Fn button is described. Note •...
  • Page 111 Press the Fn button. Select [Delete] with v on the control button, then press the center of the control button. Deleting all the images in the folder Fn button t [Image Index] t Select the desired number of images Select the folder bar with b on the control button.

  • Page 112: Viewing Images On A Tv Screen

    Viewing images on a TV screen To view images recorded on the camera on a TV set, an HDMI cable (sold separately) and an HD TV equipped with an HDMI connector are required. Turn off both your camera and the To the HDMI connector TV, and connect the camera to the...
  • Page 113 • By connecting your camera to Sony’s VIDEO-A compatible TV using an HDMI cable, the TV automatically selects the appropriate image quality for viewing still pictures. Please refer to the operating instructions of Sony’s VIDEO-A compatible TV for more details.
  • Page 114 PAL-N system Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay SECAM system Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine, etc. Using “BRAVIA” Sync By connecting the camera to a TV that supports “BRAVIA” Sync using an HDMI cable, you can operate the camera with the TV Remote Control. Connect a TV that supports “BRAVIA”...
  • Page 115 • If the camera performs unnecessary operations in response to the TV Remote Control when the camera is connected to another manufacturer’s TV using an HDMI connection, set [CTRL FOR HDMI] in the Setup menu to [Off].

  • Page 116: Changing Your Setting Image Size And Image Quality

    Changing your setup Setting image size and image quality Image size MENU button t 1 t [Image size] t Select the desired size [Aspect ratio]: [3:2] L:14M 4592 × 3056 pixels M:7.7M 3408 × 2272 pixels S:3.5M 2288 × 1520 pixels [Aspect ratio]: [16:9] L:12M 4592 ×...
  • Page 117 Quality MENU button t 1 t [Quality] t Select the desired setting (RAW) File format: RAW (raw data) This format does not perform any digital processing on the images. Select this format to process images on a computer for professional purposes. •...

  • Page 118: Setup Setting The Method For Recording On A Memory Card

    Setting the method for recording on a memory card Selecting the method for assigning file numbers to images MENU button t 2 t [File number] t Select the desired setting Series The camera does not reset numbers and assigns numbers to files in sequence until the number reaches “9999.”...
  • Page 119 Creating a new folder You can create a folder in a memory card for recording images. A new folder is created with a number incremented one higher than the largest number currently used, and the folder becomes the current recording folder.

  • Page 120: Changing The Noise Reduction Setting

    Changing the noise reduction setting Disabling the noise reduction during long exposure shootings 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.

  • Page 121: Changing The Functions Of The Control Dial

    Changing the functions of the control dial Changing the function of the control dial When the recording mode is M (Manual exposure), you can set the camera so that the adjustable item (the shutter speed or the aperture value) can be selected using only the control dial.

  • Page 122: Changing Other Settings

    Changing other settings Setting the sound on/off Selects the sound produced when the shutter is locked, during self-timer countdown, etc. MENU button t 3 t [Audio signals] t Select the desired setting Selecting the background color of the screen display You can select the background color of the LCD monitor from [Black], [White], [Brown], or [Pink].
  • Page 123 Note • Regardless of the setting here, the camera turns to power save mode after 30 minutes when the camera is connected to a TV or the drive mode is set to (Remote Commander). Setting the date Resets the date. See page 25 for details. MENU button t 2 t [Date/Time setup] t Set up the date and time...

  • Page 124: Setting The Lcd Monitor

    Setting the LCD monitor Setting the brightness of the LCD monitor manually The brightness of the LCD monitor is automatically adjusted to the surrounding lighting conditions using the light sensor (page 35). You can set the brightness of the LCD monitor manually. MENU button t 1 t [LCD brightness] t [Manual] t Select the desired setting...
  • Page 125 Keeping the LCD monitor tuned on while looking into the viewfinder When the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch is set to “OVF,” looking into the viewfinder turns off the LCD monitor. In the default setting, while looking into the viewfinder, the LCD monitor is turned off to prevent the battery pack from wearing down.

  • Page 126: Confirming The Version Of The Camera

    Confirming the version of the camera Displaying the version Displays the version of your camera. Confirm the version when a firmware update is released. MENU button t 3 t [Version] Note • An update can be performed only when the battery level is (three remaining battery icons) or more.

  • Page 127: Resetting To The Default

    Resetting to the default You can reset the main functions of the camera. MENU button t 3 t [Reset default] t [OK] The items to be reset are as follows. Items Reset to Exposure compensation (86) ±0.0 Recording information display (69) Graphic Display Playback display (102) Single-image screen (with recording...
  • Page 128 Custom menu Items Reset to Eye-Start AF (67) Ctrl dial setup (121) Shutter speed Red eye reduc. (84) Auto review (124) 2 sec Auto off w/ VF (125) Playback menu Items Reset to Specify Printing – Date imprint (147) Slide show – Interval (105) 3 sec Slide show –...

  • Page 129: Viewing Images Copying Images To Your Computer

    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 130 Stage 1: Connecting the camera and your computer Insert a memory card with recorded images into the camera. Select the type of memory card you want to copy images from using the memory card switch. Insert the sufficiently charged battery pack in the camera, or connect the camera to a wall outlet (wall socket) with the AC Adaptor (sold separately).
  • Page 131 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. When you use the supplied “PMB” software, you can copy images easily (page 137). Click [Open folder to view files] (For Windows XP: [Open folder to view files] t [OK]) as the wizard...
  • Page 132 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 133: On A Computer 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. To view RAW images, the supplied “Image Data Converter SR” software is required (page 140). Click [Start] t [Documents].
  • Page 134 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 135 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 in date form (page 118).
  • Page 136 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.

  • Page 137: 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” • “PMB” (Picture Motion Browser) Note • “PMB” is not compatible with Macintosh computers.
  • Page 138 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 “PMB” are checked and follow the instructions on the screen.
  • Page 139 Remove the CD-ROM after the installation is complete. The following software is installed and shortcut icons appear on the desktop. “Image Data Converter SR” “Image Data Lightbox SR” “PMB” “PMB Launcher” “PMB Help” x Macintosh • Log on as Administrator. Turn on your Macintosh computer, and insert the CD-ROM (supplied) into the CD-ROM drive.
  • Page 140 RAW format or save it in the general file format. • For details on “Image Data Converter SR,” refer to Help. To start Help, click [Start] t [All Programs] t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Help] t [Image Data Converter SR Ver.3].
  • Page 141 • For details on “Image Data Lightbox SR,” refer to Help. To start 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”...
  • Page 142 (PMB) icon on the desktop. Or, from the Start menu: Click [Start] t [All Programs] t [PMB] t [PMB]. To exit the “PMB,” click button on the upper-right corner of the screen. The support information for the “PMB” (English only): http://www.sony.co.jp/pmb-se/...

  • Page 143: Printing Images Specifying Dpof

    Printing images Specifying DPOF Using the camera, you can specify the images and the number of images to print before you print images at a shop or with your printer. Follow the procedure below. DPOF specifications are left with images after printing. It is recommended that you unspecify them after printing.
  • Page 144 • You can select a value for the number of images to be printed after you have selected [All images]. The same value will be used for all images. Dating images You can date images when printing them. The position of the date (inside or outside the image, character size, etc.) depends on your printer.

  • Page 145: Printing Images By Connecting The Camera To A Pictbridge Compliant Printer

    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 146 Stage 2: Connecting the camera to the printer Connect the camera to the printer. To the USB terminal USB cable To the USB terminal 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 control button, then press the center of the control button.
  • Page 147 To cancel the print During printing, pressing the center of the control button 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 Print Prints the selected images.

  • Page 148: Others Specifications

    Others Specifications Sensitivity Range 0 to 18 EV (at ISO 100 equivalent) AF illuminator Camera Approx. 1 to 5 m (3.3 to 16.4 feet) [System] [Live View] Camera Type Digital Single Lens Reflex Type Pentamirror tilt mechanism Camera with built-in flash Image format and interchangeable lenses Exclusive image sensor for...
  • Page 149 [Recording media] Metering method 40-segment honeycomb- “Memory Stick PRO Duo” pattern, the exclusive media, SD memory card, image sensor for Live SDHC memory card View in Live View mode [LCD monitor] Metering Range 2 to 20 EV (4 to 20 EV LCD panel 6.7 cm (2.7 type) TFT with Spot metering), (at drive...
  • Page 150 USB communication Capacity Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 Typical 6.1 Wh (900 mAh) compliant) Minimum 5.9 Wh (870 mAh) BC-VH1 Battery charger Maximum dimensions Approx. 31.8 × 18.5 × 45.0 Input rating 100 V – 240 V AC, 50/60 mm (1 5/16 × 3/4 × 1 13/16 Hz, 4 W inches) (W/H/D) Output rating...
  • Page 151 Trademarks • Adobe is a registered trademark or a trademark of Adobe Systems • is a trademark of Sony Incorporated in the United States Corporation. and/or other countries. • “Memory Stick,” , “Memory • D-Range Optimizer Advanced uses Stick PRO,”...

  • Page 152: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If you experience trouble with your camera, try the following solutions. Check the items on pages 152 to 161. 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 153 The power turns off suddenly. • If you do not operate the camera for given period of time, the camera turns to power saving mode and nearly shuts down. To cancel the power save, operate the camera, such as pressing the shutter button halfway down (page 122).
  • Page 154 • You cannot record images while charging the built-in flash (page 82). • The shutter cannot be released when the subject is out of focus. • The lens is not attached properly. Attach the lens properly (page 20). • When an astronomical telescope, etc., is attached to the camera, set the recording mode to M and do your shooting.
  • Page 155 A picture 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 84).
  • Page 156 Dots appear and remain on the LCD monitor. • This is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded (page 7). • You may reduce the effect of these issues using the “Pixel mapping” function. Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to “LIVE VIEW.” Attach the lens cap.
  • Page 157 You have deleted an image 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 109). You cannot mark a DPOF mark. • You cannot mark DPOF marks on RAW images. Computers You do not know if the OS of your computer is compatible with the camera.
  • Page 158 After making a USB connection, “PMB” does not start automatically. • Make the USB connection after the computer is turned on (page 130). You do not know how to operate the software (supplied). • See help or the guide of each software. Memory card Cannot insert a memory card.
  • Page 159 Images are printed with both edges cut off. • Depending on your printer, the left, right, top, and bottom edges of the image may be cut off. Especially when you print an image shot with the aspect ratio set to [16:9], the lateral end of the image may be cut off. •...
  • Page 160 Charge the battery pack and set the date again (pages 25, 165). If the date setting is lost every time the battery pack is charged, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. The number of recordable images does not decrease or decreases two at a time.
  • Page 161 Adaptor (sold separately) is used, disconnect the power cord. If the camera is hot, allow it to cool down before trying this corrective procedure. If the camera does not work after doing these solutions, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.

  • Page 162: Warning Messages

    Warning messages If the message still appears, change the memory card. Card error If the following messages appear, • An incompatible memory card is follow the instructions below. inserted or the format has failed. Incompatible battery. Use correct Reinsert “Memory Stick.” model.
  • Page 163 • Turn the power off, remove the battery pack, then re-insert it. If No images the message appears frequently, • There is no image in the memory consult your Sony dealer or local card. authorized Sony service facility. Image protected Unable to magnify.
  • Page 164 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 165: Precautions

    Precautions On operating temperatures Your camera is designed for use under the temperatures between 0 and Do not use/store the camera in 40°C (32 and 104°F). Shooting in the following places extremely cold or hot places that exceed this range is not •...
  • Page 166 Consult your damage or loss. Sony dealer or local authorized Sony • Clean the flash surface before use. service facility. The heat of flash emission may cause dirt on the flash surface to...

  • Page 167: Index

    Index Index Numerics Color Space ........ 96 Compression ratio ....117 40-segment honeycomb pattern metering ....... 149 Continuous AF ......78 Continuous bracket ....99 Continuous shooting ....97 Adobe RGB........ 96 Contrast ........94 AF area........79 Control button ...... 39, 40 AF illuminator......
  • Page 168 Eyecup ........28 ISO sensitivity ......90 Eyepiece cover......28 Eyepiece sensors....67, 125 JPEG ........117 Eye-Start AF .......67 Landscape ........51 File number.......118 Language........123 Fill-flash ........82 LCD brightness......124 Flash bracket.......99 LCD monitor....37, 69, 106 Flash compensation ....88 Lens..........20 Flash mode........82 Live View ......
  • Page 169 Self-timer ........98 Set the clock ....... 25, 123 OVF ........... 67 Sharpness ........94 Shooting ........47 Shoulder strap ......27 PictBridge ........ 145 Shutter speed ......56, 61 Pixel mapping ......156 Shutter speed priority ....61 PlaybackDisplay ...... 102 Single-shot AF ......

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