Digital imaging giant, Sony, announced the availability of two of its newest cameras in the local market. Worthy successors of Sony’s top-grade cameras, the RX100 III and Alpha 77 II make a mark in the world of photography with its advanced and competent features.
Pocket-Sized Efficiency: Cyber-shot RX100 III
Made for people who prefer traveling light and has an eye for photography, the new Cyber-shot RX100 III is built with tough aluminum that’s solid yet light in the hand. Boasting an upgraded lens and speedy image processor, this new iteration is nothing but stylish and clear-cut.
It sports a retractable OLED Tru-Finder that captures what the eye sees in exceptional clarity with its optical surface with Zeiss Vario Sonnar T coating. This 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 lens comes with a F2.8 maximum aperture at its telephoto end, which makes subjects stand out crisply against the background. A built-in 3-stop (1/8) Neutral Density filter gives the camera flexibility as it can smoothly capture sun-drenched exteriors or intentionally-blurred shots of moving water. Also, it has a handy eye sensor that automatically switches between viewfinder and monitor display.
The camera features a 20.1MP, 1.0-type back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor that is complemented with Sony’s latest-generation BIONZ X processing engine. Apart from powering most of the camera features, the speedy BIONZ X processor also runs its video features. The RX100 III now supports the XAVC S format for recording Full HD videos. It produces clean HDMI output and dual video recording can simultaneously store small MP4 format files alongside AVCHD /XAVC S files.
For steady shots, the camera combines Frame analysis technology and 5-axis stabilization in the Intelligent Active Mode to pleasantly minimize camera shake and create steady outputs. A newly-added 4K still image output, HDMI or Wi-Fi, with support for Triluminos Color, and NFC connectivity are also present in this iteration. What’s more, it comes with a 3.0-type Xtra Fine LCD that can flip up to 180 degrees for easy arms-length portraits and shooting in various positions.
The Razor-Sharp 77 II (Alpha 77 II)
For photography junkies and pros, Sony has unveiled the Alpha 77 II that boasts of enhancements such as its tough, weather-resistant body. Aside from a body that can withstand rough use, the new Alpha 77 II features an improved image quality thanks to its 79 autofocus detection points (including 15 cross points). A dedicated F2.8 AF point supports apertures up to F2.8, making it perform well even in low light and accurately lock onto subjects.
New AF functions let users make the most of the new 79-point system. This includes Expanded Flexible Spot mode, AF-C AF mode, and Lock-on AF mode (Wide, Zone, Flexible Spot or Expanded Flexible Spot).
Apart from the aforementioned features, the Alpha 77 II also comes with an Eye AF function, AF Range Control, and Balanced Emphasis mode. Also offered is a non-stop burst feature of up to 60 full-resolution JPEG images at a shooting speed of 12 frames per second (in Continuous Advance Priority AE mode), and a 24.3MP Exmor CMOS image sensor. The latter features a gapless on-chip lens structure that offers 20% greater sensitivity.
Its high-resolution sensor is paired with a BIONZ X image processor that is three times faster than Sony’s previous BIONZ engine. XGA OLED Tru-Finder with 2,356K dot resolution makes for wide viewing angle and high eye-point.
Also integrated in the Alpha 77 II is a 3.0-type (7.5 cm) Xtra Fine LCD that can be adjusted in three ways. This makes it easy to shoot in either high or low angles, in portrait or landscape orientation, handheld or with a tripod.
The optional VG-C77AM vertical grip enhances camera operability by offering remarkable holding and operational ease. It can also record Full HD 60p and 24p movies using the AVCHD 2.0 format. With and on-board Wi-Fi and NFC-compatibility, Smart Remote Control can be easily activated. This feature links the camera to your mobile phone, enabling you to shoot images from a distance.
The Cyber-shot RX100 bundle comes with a 16GB memory card, while the Alpha 77 II A-mount interchangeable lens digital camera bundle comes with a 16-50mm kit lens and 16GB memory card and Vertical Grip. The cameras are priced at PHP 44,999 and PHP 86,999, respectively.
For more details on all Sony products, visit the nearest Sony Centre or authorized dealer and log on to http://www.sony.com.ph/