New Sony SLRs target point-and-shoot photographers, but there’s no video

Sony alpha DSLR-A230 with kit lens (Click to enlarge.)

Sony's just refreshed its existing line of consumer-level SLRs with three new models: the 10-megapixel Sony alpha DSLR-A230 ($550 with kit lens), 10-megapixel alpha DSLR-A330 ($650 with kit lens) and the 14-megapixel alpha DSLR-A380 ($850 with kit lens). The company says they have simpler graphical interfaces with help guides, more compact, lightweight bodies and HDMI outputs, to hook up to your HDTV. All three have two memory card slots, for Sony's Memory Stick Duo or an SD card. The two more expensive models also have live-view features and tilting LCDs. According to Sony, these SLRs, along with new lenses and a flash, are targeted at consumers who want to use SLRs more or less like point-and-shoots, but with better image quality and more options.

Sony alpha DSLR-A330 with kit lens (Click to enlarge.)

But with Canon and Nikon redefining the SLR market by producing SLRs that can capture video, like the Nikon D5000 and the Canon Rebel T1i, why didn't Sony include video features on these SLRs? I think Sony may have dropped the ball, although maybe they left out the video in order to avoid cannibalizing their camcorder products. No matter; they could have done a better job of appealing to point-and-shoot users by including video capability.

Still, Sony seems to have done a lot right with this announcement: They've also introduced four lenses (two zooms and two primes) and a flash, which in some ways may be more interesting than the SLRs themselves. Why? Sony priced these products to be inexpensive, at least cheaper than some of their past lenses and flashes, so you can afford to buy not just one, but perhaps several lenses and a flash to go with them.

Sony alpha DSLR-A380 with kit lens (Click to enlarge.)

Here's a rundown of the new lenses:

• A standard, 3x, 18-55mm zoom lens, $200
• A telephoto, 3.6x, 55-200mm zoom lens, $230
• A portrait, 50mm prime (or fixed) lens, $150
• A macro (or close-up), 30mm prime (or fixed) lens, $200

Of course, other camera companies have inexpensive kit lenses as well. But I think Sony's smart to introduce several at once, which gives the impression that Sony's looking to offer an inexpensive way for you to build up an SLR system. We'll be looking to see if Sony continues this trend in future product announcements.

My favorite among the new Sony products is the HVL-F20AM, a lightweight, easy-to-carry external flash that you attach to the SLR's hot shoe.

Sony alpha DSLR-A330 with the HVL-F20AM flash unit in the down (left) and up positions. (Click to enlarge.)

Here are two things I like about it: First, the price is only $130. Second, it pops up like the smaller, on-board flashes that most SLRs have. So, when you're not using it, it's compact and close to the SLR body. (Sony's been inventive with other SLR flash designs, such as the pricier HVL-F58AM external flash, $500, which can pivot 90 degrees left or right, as well as being able to tilt up and down, which is great for shooting vertically.)

The takeaway: Sony dropped the ball by not including video capability on these new SLRs, but their introduction of inexpensive lenses and an inventive flash may be Sony's saving grace. It will be interesting to see if Canon and Nikon and other SLRs companies pick up on this and start producing more super-cheap SLR lenses and accessories. —Terry Sullivan

Comments

[Dennis S]

I have been shooting a SLR camera since 1979. I know what a good SLR should do. I own an A330 and use it mostly for sports photography, mainly soccer. It is easy to operate and produces high quality images. Any image problems I experienced is OPERATOR ERROR. I got this camera for $499.00 with a 18-55 mm paper weight. I challenge anyone to show me a DSLR with comparable features for this price. Video mode? What the heck do I want video mode for. I bought a DSLR camera to take still pics not video. If i want video I'll buy a video camera. Besides the more gadgets you pack into one package the more that can and WILL go wrong. I never buy multi purpose electronics. I purchase the equipment for the purpose I use it for. In my opinion, no video function is a smart thing. The live view is great. Very responsive and aids greatly in fast moving photography, such as soccer. Not having my eye buried in the view finder helps to keep an eye on the rest of the action. Now for the really good stuff. This camera and all Sony DSLR cameras can use any lens ever made for the Minolta auto focus cameras!!! I got a high quality 70-300 Sigma zoom lens for $99.00 including shipping. Lenses to fit this camera are every where and dirt cheep. Have you priced a lens for a Cannon or Nikon? The battery life is of no consequence. 230 pics wile using Live View, twice as many when using the view finder. Then just insert a freshly charged battery. I got 2 Sony FH50 batteries for less then $35.00. Once again, batteries for Cannikon? 10.2 mp is high enough quality to produce a fantastic 12x11 print. Only beyond this size do you notice any degradation of the image, compared to 13 mp, if you have a trained eye. The auto focus is very fast! Even with my 70-300 zoom. If you want a DSLR to impress your photo club buddies, purchase a Cannikon Swiss Army knife overpriced special. If your like me and want the best pics for the buck check out Sony DSLRs.

[Mark]

I agree. Sony are right not to bulk up their SLRs with features like those. Those of us who use an SLR feel as though we are in control of the image and as such do not want other things on their, dare I say, to make it easier. I want high quality not gimmicks.

[Larry Harrison]

I am glad that Sony did not place video-mode on these SLRs. I don't think Nikon or Canon should be putting video-mode on any of their SLRs either. As a hobbyist, I buy an SLR so as to have a tool that specializes in taking the best still images, period. Not everything works like an iPhone. For example, if you want the best Mexican or Chinese food, you go to a place that sells that and nothing else. They specialize in one thing and nothing else, and thus do it better than everyone else. That is what SLRs are for. If you want a "Swiss Army Knife" type of product in the camera realm, that's what point & shoots are for. SLRs are not for people wanting to take YouTube clips. No thank you.