Sony Alpha A900 24.6MP Digital SLR Camera

   α900 Features

Introducing the α900. A camera whose stellar image quality eclipses everything you have known before.
At its heart is a 35mm full-frame Exmor™ CMOS sensor that represents the culmination of a dream. With 24.6-megapixel* resolution that captures details so fine, and color so rich and natural, you will never be satisfied with anything less again.
The α900 digital SLR from Sony. In truth, it is a camera like no other.

Images of singular beauty, from a sensor like no other

Only a company with Sony's long experience in semiconductor and microprocessor manufacturing could have developed the α900's remarkable new 24.6-megapixel* 35mm full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor. Designed specifically to take advantage of the superb resolving power of high-precision αseries lenses, its high pixel count and large size assure enhanced image detail and a wider dynamic range that enables colors and subtle tonal gradations to be captured just as the human eye perceives them. * Effective megapixels (approx.)

24.6-megapixel Exmor™ CMOS 35mm full-frame imaging

The α900's image sensor is designed from the ground up for 35mm full-frame imaging, and is produced using proprietary Sony planarization technologies to ensure an ultra-flat surface across the entire imaging area. Instead of a single analog/digital converter, the sensor uses over 6000 on-chip column-parallel analog/digital converters to convert analog signals to noise-resistant digital signals at the earliest possible stage. In addition, noise reduction is applied both before and after analog/digital conversion to ensure cleaner signal output. The result is not only higher image quality, but also blazingly fast sensor response.

Dual BIONZ™ image processing for truly lifelike and natural color

Image processing gets a big boost in speed and power from new dual BIONZ image processing engines on the α900. As a result, even the massive amount of image data captured by the 24.6-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor can be processed instantly, assuring you of quick shooting response and truly natural, what-you-see-is-what-you-get color and tonal gradation. In addition, the dual BIONZ engines apply advanced noise reduction algorithms twice — once prior to RAW data conversion and again during image processing — to ensure an absolute minimum of noise in final image data.   α900 Noise reduction Analog signal  Digital signal  Noise  (1) Lens  (2) Exmor™ CMOS Sensor  (3) Captured Image  (4) Receptor  (5) Charge/Voltage Conversion  (6) On-chip Column A/D Conversion + Dual Noise Reduction  (7) A/D Conversion  (8) Analog Signal Noise Reduction  (9) Digital Noise Reduction  (10) Dual Noise Reduction  (11) Digital Signal  (12) Image Processor  (13) Raw Data NR  (14) NR with image Processing  (15) Data Compression  (16) Recording to Memory Stick Duo / CF Card  (17) Output

Faster, more powerful SteadyShot® INSIDE

To match the larger size and higher image quality specifications of the new 35mm full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor, the α900 features a SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization system that is 1.5x more powerful, and 1.3x faster, than previous systems. Enabling you to enjoy handheld shooting at shutter speeds up to 4 steps slower than would otherwise be possible,* the body-mounted SteadyShot INSIDE system works with all compatible α system lenses — including macro and wide-angle lenses — and doesn't cause the image degradation that can occur with lens-based optical stabilization systems. * Stabilization effect varies according to lens and shooting conditions. SteadyShot INSIDE unit for 35mm full-frame format sensor SteadyShot INSIDE unit for APS-C format sensor

Unparalleled viewfinder brightness and a 100% field of view (approx.)

The α900's viewfinder is a masterpiece of optical precision in its own right. Featuring a high-quality optical glass pentaprism and a new high-power condenser lens, it offers truly exceptional brightness, 0.74x magnification (approx.) and a field of view that covers virtually 100% of the 35mm full-frame sensor's large imaging area. A high refractive index glass eyepiece and condenser lenses virtually eliminate distortion, while multi-layer anti-reflective coatings help prevent ghosting. A spherical acute matte focusing screen aids manual focusing by making it easy to identify correct focus, and a high eyepoint improves visibility when wearing eyeglasses. Viewfinder schematic (1) Glass pentaprism (2) Eyepiece lens (3) High-power condenser lens

Optional focusing screens to suit your shooting style

According to your preference or shooting needs, the standard Type G spherical acute matte focusing screen that comes with the α900 can be replaced with an optional Type L spherical acute matte screen or Type M super spherical acute matte screen. The L type features grid lines to enable easier framing, while the M type is particularly well-suited to bright lenses with an aperture of F2.8 or greater, and features a high-dispersion screen that makes it easier to fine-tune the focus manually. Super spherical acute matte Type M focusing screen FDA-FM1AM Spherical acute matte Type L focusing screen FDA-FL1AM

9-point autofocus system with additional wide-area 10-point assist

A versatile new center dual-cross 9-point AF sensor system provides fast, accurate autofocusing to ensure fewer missed shots. Featuring 10 additional sensors to assist in subject detection when Wide AF is selected, it also offers improved out-of-focus detection to reduce focus hunting, and has a dedicated sensor in the center of the frame to enhance accuracy when shooting at apertures of F2.8 or larger. AF sensor layout  AF sensors    AF assist sensors

24.6-megapixel full-resolution continuous shooting at 5 fps

Full-resolution 24.6-megapixel imaging at speeds of up to about 5 fps is made possible by powerful dual BIONZ image processing engines and a high-power coreless motor. In addition, a new high-speed moving-magnet actuator and parallel-link mechanism are used to drive the camera's large swing mirror, enabling you to enjoy virtually 100% viewfinder coverage without sacrificing continuous shooting speed. So you can capture the perfect moment even when you're shooting sports or other active subjects, and still enjoy the rich color and exquisitely fine detail that are a hallmark of the α900's 24.6-megapixel 35mm full-frame imaging.           5 frames / sec

Rugged, magnesium-alloy body for reliability and durability

The body of the α900 reflects the same high quality and attention to detail as the images it delivers. Ruggedly constructed for years of dependable service, it features a front, back, and top made of strong, durable magnesium alloy, an interior chassis made of high-tensile aluminum, and a mirror box made of high-rigidity polycarbonate resin reinforced with carbon fibers. Balance and handling are superb, and the design and finish of the exceptionally easy-to-hold grip reflect Sony's long experience in developing broadcast-use video cameras and camcorders.

High-endurance shutter unit for trouble-free shooting

Long-term reliability is also assured by a high-precision shutter unit that offers outstanding durability under heavy use. With a standalone unit service life of 100,000 shutter release cycles (approx.), it's built to withstand the performance demands of 1/8000 sec. shutter speeds and 5 fps continuous shooting with a 35mm full-frame sensor.

Dust and moisture protection for worry-free outdoor shooting

To allow worry-free shooting in adverse environmental conditions,* the α900's controls, terminals, viewfinder, and other sensitive components are protected from dust and moisture by rubber seals. * Not waterproof or splashproof.

Anti-dust sensor protection for cleaner images

To protect the camera's sensor from dust contamination that can occur when changing lenses, an anti-dust mechanism vibrates the sensor at high speed every time the camera is switched off. In addition, the low-pass filter in front of the sensor is protected by a special anti-static coating to help prevent dust adherence. Anti-dust sensor protection (1) Low-pass filter   (2) Image sensor Dust particles dislodged by sensor vibration

D-Range Optimizer for rich tone gradations in high-contrast light

When photographing scenes that contain extremes of light and shadow, it can be difficult to capture the full range of tonal gradations that the human eye can see. But with the α900's D-Range Optimizer function, the camera analyzes the scene for you, and automatically adjusts gradation reproduction parameters to assure optimum exposure balance, with richer highlight and shadow detail. In Standard mode, the D-Range Optimizer analyzes the overall image before performing the optimization, and in Advanced mode,* it analyzes each area of the composition separately. On the α900, improved algorithms assure even better performance, with a choice of Advanced Auto and Advanced Level settings you can use to help you capture the level of highlight and shadow detail you want. In addition, there's a D-Range Optimizer bracketing function that records images at three different optimization levels to allow best-shot selection. * D-Range Optimizer Advanced uses technology provided by Apical Limited. Advanced Level mode (Lv2) 35mm F1.4G (SAL35F14G), M mode, 1/250 sec., F5.6, ISO200, White balance: Daylight

3 high-precision metering modes for greater shooting versatility

The α900 is equipped with a 40-segment honeycomb-pattern metering sensor that uses advanced algorithms to ensure balanced exposures under a wide range of lighting conditions. A convenient 3-way switch on the back of the camera allows you to choose between 40-segment honeycomb-pattern metering, center-weighted metering, or spot metering according to your shooting needs. 40-segment honeycomb-pattern metering Center-weighted metering Spot metering

Exposure bracketing up to +/-2EV for secure 'best-shot' capture

Exposure bracketing can be set via the Drive mode button to enable best-shot selection from a series of images. In keeping with the α900's high performance standards, the range of selectable options includes 3-frame or 5-frame bracketing in 0.3EV, 0.5EV, or 0.7EV increments, as well as new 3-frame +/-2EV bracketing that makes it easy to create stunningly realistic high dynamic range composite images. -1.0EV -0.5EV +/-0 +0.5EV +1.0EV

Intelligent Preview function for exposure effect simulation

Another advanced function introduced for the first time on the α900 is Intelligent Preview. Using this function, you can simulate the effect of various D-Range Optimizer, exposure compensation, and white balance settings, and display the result on the LCD monitor without actually taking a picture. It's a great way to fine-tune image adjustments in advance when working with a tripod and complex shooting setup. Simulation of Auto and Tungsten white balance mode effects.

Creative Style Image Matrix

In addition to the parameters shown in this diagram, each Creative Style setting also has a different effect on color reproduction, white balance, sharpness, and tone curve, providing exceptionally fine control over the final image. (Selecting a different Creative Style setting will not produce the same results even if the basic brightness, contrast, and saturation settings are the same.) A. Brightness (Higher)  B. Brightness (Lower)  C. Contrast (Higher)  D. Contrast (Lower)  E. Saturation (Higher)  F. Saturation (Lower) (1) Standard  (2) Vivid  (3) Neutral  (4) Clear  (5) Deep  (6) Light  (7) Portrait  (8) Landscape  (9) Sunset  (10) Night view  (11) Autumn leaves

Quick Navi information display for one-handed settings selection

A quick press of the Function (Fn) button on the rear of the α900 switches the LCD monitor from standard information display to Quick Navi information display. From there, you can quickly adjust essential shooting parameters by operating the multi-selector with your thumb, or by rotating the front or rear control dial, enabling you to change settings on the fly without interrupting your creative flow. (1) Press  (2) Adjust

3 user-programmable memory modes for instant access to your favorites settings

Up to 3 combinations of frequently used modes and settings can be stored in memory and accessed via the mode dial on the top of the camera. When you want to apply the settings again, simply select the corresponding number on the mode dial and you're ready to shoot.

3-inch* Xtra Fine LCD monitor for sharp, clear image review in any light

On-the-spot image review is easy thanks to a 3.0" Xtra Fine LCD monitor with a screen resolution of 270 ppi (approx.), which is even higher than the 220 ppi resolution generally considered to be the upper limit of what the human eye can perceive. Hybrid construction and an anti-reflective coating improve monitor visibility when shooting outdoors, and there are a wide choice of index view options to facilitate best-shot selection, as well as a full-featured RGB histogram and shooting information display. * Viewable area, measured diagonally With AR coating (low reflectivity, high visibility) (1) AR coating Without AR coating (high reflectivity, low visibility) 3" conventional LCD (approx. 230,000 dots) 3" Xtra Fine LCD (approx. 920,000 dots)

AF Micro Adjustment for lens-specific focus tuning

With AF Micro Adjustment switched on, you can fine-tune the AF focus point for up to 30 different lenses in +/-20-step increments. Adjustments can then be stored in the camera's memory and will be automatically applied when the same lens is mounted again.

Mirror Lockup mode

A Mirror Lockup mode enables you to prevent mirror movement when taking vibration-sensitive macro or high-power telephoto shots.

Built-in eyepiece shutter

Used when taking long-exposure shots of fireworks or the sky at night, the built-in eyepiece shutter prevents extraneous light from entering the eyepiece and skewing exposure values.

Adobe RGB color space support

In addition to the sRGB color space supported by virtually all computer monitors and modern inkjet printers, the α900 supports the wider color gamut of the Adobe RGB color space that is used by many professional printers.

Dual memory card slots

Support for both CompactFlash™ and Memory Stick Duo™ recording media* enables you to load both types of media and switch between them via the Quick Navi information display. * Accepts high-speed CompactFlash UDMA, MemoryStick Pro-HG Duo, MemoryStick Pro Duo, and MemoryStick Duo media.

Turn your Sony BRAVIA™ HDTV into a personal digital art gallery

For the ultimate experience in home viewing pleasure, simply connect the α900 directly to a Sony BRAVIA HDTV ? the TV will automatically switch to PhotoTV HD mode, enabling you to enjoy and share your photos in a dramatic new way. It's a totally new viewing experience, one that combines the transparent clarity, color fidelity, and rich contrast of positive film with the big-screen impact of a slide projector. From breathtaking scenic photos and landscapes to photos of your family and friends, BRAVIA PhotoTV HD brings out radiant beauty in every detail, filling the room with luminous, high-resolution images that launch photography into a new dimension. It's like having a digital art gallery right in your own living room. * Compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTV and HDMI cable (sold separately) required for PhotoTV HD viewing.   Specifications of the BRAVIA HDTV shown above vary according to market region.