Sony Alpha a99 DSLT camera, a lot of “firsts” for Sony

Last week, we get to play with the latest top-of-the-line professional-grade DSLT (single-lens translucent) camera from Sony. The Sony Alpha a99 is a full-frame camera that showcases a lot of technological imaging innovations from the Japanese company. A lot of “first” is packed into this camera making it a versatile option for pro photographers or videographers.

The Sony Alpha a99 is the first DSLT that features a full-frame 35mm image sensor. This new Exmor CMOS sensor boasts of 24.3 effective megapixels and a highly advanced BIONZ image processing engine with a new front-end SLI to process massive amounts of image signal data ced BIONZ image processing engine at very high speeds d BIONZ image processing engine. You’ll get 14-bit RAW output with low noise and rich color gradation.

The new image sensor is capable of expanded sensitivity mode to boost the maximum sensitivity range to 50 – 25600, a range of 9 stops. The BIONZ engine allows the a99 to shoot a burst of full-resolution images at up to 6 frames per second or 10 fps in Tele-zoom high speed shooting mode.

The Alpha a99 is also the first full-frame camera with a Dual AF system. You’ll have the typical 19-point AF system but with the multi-point focal plane phase-detection AF sensor, these points is complemented with a set of 102 AF points. This Dual AF systems permits ultra-fast, accurate autofocusing that maintains tracking focus even if the subject leaves the 19-point AF frame.

The XGA OLED Tru-Finder (electronic viewfinder) gives a detail-packed view of your subject, offering 100% frame coverage with exceptional brightness, contrast, clarity and resolution. You can see what your shot will look like as you make your adjustments before you take the shot. This includes the brightness, depth of field, and exposure in real time.

Complementing the Tru-Finder, there’s also a three-way tiltable 921k-dot (VGA equivalent) XtraFine LCD with WhiteMagic technology to boost screen brightness in outdoor conditions.

For the avid videographers out there, the Sony Alpha a99 is equipped with Sony’s high-end Handycam “cinematic DNA”. The resolving power and sensitivity of the full-frame sensor is complemented by advanced features optimised for professional video production. This camera is capable of full-frame Full HD 60p/50p/25p/24p progressive video recording to meet AVCHD Version 2.0 specifications.

A control knob at the front of the body allows for silent adjustment of exposure compensation, ISO sensitivity and metering method, shutter speed, aperture and audio record levels during Full HD video capture.

If you want stamina on your camera, the Sony a99 accepts the new VG-C99AM Vertical Grip that houses up to three batteries in total. This grip also makes it possible to exchange batteries ‘on the fly’ without interrupting movie recording.

At just 733g (for the body), the Sony Alpha a99 is the lightest professional camera around. This is made possible by Translucent Mirror Technology, while high-rigidity magnesium alloy panels contribute to an extremely tough yet light design.

The new a99 full-frame Translucent Mirror camera from Sony will be available early next month for Php139,999 (body-only).

Source: