Sony a850 DSLR Camera Body

Model number:

DSLR-A850

Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars

Model Features: 24.6MP, 35mm full frame Exmor™ CMOS image sensor, SteadyShot INSIDE™ image stabilization, Dual BIONZ™ processors, ultra bright glass pentaprism viewfinder, 3.0" display, 9-point AF system

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$1999.99

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Position 1
Overview
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Features
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Specifications
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Gallery
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Reviews
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Accessories
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Compatability

Expanded Creativity

Enjoy unlimited creativity and image control thanks to Intelligent Preview which allows you to adjust exposure and white balance. You can also fine-tune contrast, saturation, sharpness and brightness to achieve the precise tonalities and artistic effects your creativity requires.
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System Flexibility

Brilliantly capture your subject and expand your creativity with an unlimited range of accessories. From lenses and flashes to filters and grips, the A850 offers solutions to satisfy even the most demanding photographer.
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Zeiss and G Badges
Extraordinary Durability

The finest build quality to match the finest in imaging. The α A850 is constructed of a rugged and lightweight magnesium-alloy body for durability, while the moisture and dust-resistant design make this DSLR camera safe to use in a variety of environments.
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Packed with innovative features to get the best shot, the rugged Sony α850 DSLR camera features a 35mm full frame 24.6 megapixel Exmor™ CMOS image sensor that provides a larger capture area, improved wide angle performance, and tighter depth of field control. The α850 also incorporates SteadyShot INSIDE™ in-camera image stabilizer which actually shifts the image sensor to compensate for camera shake without sacrificing image quality. Additional features include Dual BIONZ™ imaging processors for continuous shooting at up to 3 fps, an ultra-bright glass pentaprism viewfinder, 3.0" Xtra Fine LCD™ display and HDMI™ output.

35mm full frame 24.6MP Exmor™ CMOS image sensor

The A850 features a 35mm full frame Exmor™ CMOS image sensor that is approximately 2.35x larger than the APS-C sized sensors found in many DSLR cameras. The result is a larger capture area, improved wide angle performance, and tighter depth of field control. In addition, its 24.6MP resolution maximizes the resolving power of your existing lenses and delivers sharper, higher contrast photos.

Ultra bright, 98% coverage glass pentaprism viewfinder

A large, ultra bright glass pentaprism viewfinder provides you with amazing clarity and high optical performance for tighter focus control. In addition, it offers viewfinder magnification of 0.74x, allowing you to see an image nearer to its actual size, as well as 98% field coverage for detailed framing work.

PhotoTV HD viewing w/ HDMI™ output

The α850 provides direct HDMI™ output to your BRAVIA® HDTV and other compatible HDTV screens, so you can view and share photos in breathtaking clarity and detail Additionally, PhotoTV HD capable BRAVIA^® HDTVs will automatically optimize display settings, such as sharpness, gradation, and color to display your images in a way that more closely matches the natural look of printed photographs

Moisture/dust-resistant design

Sealed viewfinder optics and rubber gasket surrounds on all buttons, dials, and switches help resist the entry of dust and moisture into the camera, and allow for safe use in a wide range of environments.

Durable Shutter Design

The shutter mechanism in the A900 is designed to achieve shutter speeds up to 1/8000 seconds and proven for 100,000 cycle operation.

Dynamic Range Optimizer

To recover details in dark or bright areas of the image, the A900 provides multiple levels of Dynamic Range Optimization: Standard mode, to improve shadow detail using standard gamma curves; Advanced Auto mode, allowing you to select any of 5 DRO correction levels, or DRO Advanced Bracketing, which automatically takes three shots at different DRO levels with a single shutter press.

F2.8 Sensor

The autofocus system in the α850 features a highly accurate F2.8 sensor for improved focus precision when using lenses faster than F2.8.

Viewfinder magnification of 0.74x

Viewfinder magnification of 0.74x lets you see your subjects nearer to actual size.

Optional Focusing Screens (sold separately)

User-replaceable focusing screens for shooting specific subject types can be purchased as optional accessories.

Rubberized Grip

Sony drew upon its extensive experience designing and building heavy professional broadcasting camcorders to develop a rubberized grip that allows you to hold the α850 with comfort and confidence.

Picture Motion Browser (PMB) Software

Sony^® Picture Motion Browser (PMB) software provides a simple and intuitive way to sort and archive your image collection, as well as perform common editing operations and output to data disc or the Web.

Dual BIONZ™ processors for up to fast 3fps performance:

The α harnesses the power of Dual BIONZ™ image processing engines to deliver true-to-life images with ultra-low noise and continuous shooting at up to 3 fps.

3.0” Xtra Fine™ LCD⁴ (921K pixels)

Review your images in stunning detail on the 3.0” Xtra Fine™ LCD⁴ display (921k pixels). With photo-quality resolution of 270ppi (pixels per inch), you can identify any necessary focus or exposure corrections at the time of capture, rather than discovering them when you transfer your images to your PC.

Rugged magnesium alloy shell

The body of the A900 is entirely covered in a die-cast magnesium alloy shell, providing a rugged feel and surprisingly lightweight.

Battery Performance

A supplied InfoLITHIUM® lithium-ion battery provides long-lasting performance, allowing you to capture approximately 880 images on a single charge⁷.

40-Segment Multi-Pattern Metering

A 40-segment multi-pattern metering system provides superior exposure control accuracy in a wide range of lighting conditions.

Dual Noise Reduction Processing

In addition to digitizing analog signals, the full frame Exmor™ CMOS image sensor also performs both analog and digital noise reduction. This on-chip dual noise reduction process aids in the high speed transfer of noiseless digital signals.

APS-C Size Capturing

In addition to full frame image capture, the α850 can also crop images to the APS-C size format, allowing the use of lenses designed specifically for APS-C sized image sensors.

AF Micro Adjustment

AF Micro Adjustment allows you to fine tune focus for various lenses. The α850 can store adjusted focus values for up to thirty lenses.

2EV Exposure Bracketing (3 exposures)

The α850 allows you to bracket up to three exposures in 2.0EV-step increments.

Remote Camera Control

Remote Camera Control allows you to control your α850 from your PC.

SteadyShot INSIDE™ in-camera image stabilization:

Building on years of expertise, Sony has developed the world’s first body-integrated image stabilization solution for a full frame DSLR¹. The SteadyShot INSIDE™ in-camera image stabilizer actually shifts the image sensor to compensate for camera shake without sacrificing image quality. The compensation effect is equal to as many as four shutter speed steps, giving you more creative freedom when shooting in low light. And, because it is integrated into the camera body, SteadyShot INSIDE technology works with all compatible α system lenses.

Intelligent Preview Function

The Intelligent Preview function allows you to see the effects of manual adjustments to exposure value, shutter speed, aperture, Dynamic Range Optimizer and White Balance before you take the shot, so you can determine the optimum settings before you take the shot, instead of losing time to trial-and-error.

Precise and fast 9-point AF system w/ 10 point assist

A high-performance autofocus system uses 9 focus points (center dual-cross type) and 10 assist points to deliver fast and precise focusing.

Anti-Dust Technology

Changing lenses in a DSLR can allow dust to enter the camera -- so to help keep the CMOS imager cleaner for better pictures, the Sony® α; (alpha) DSLR-A900 utilizes both static-free anti-dust coating on the imager's filter and anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the sensor to dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.

Dual Card Slots

The A900 features a dual card slots and accepts both CompactFlash® and Memory Stick Duo™ Media (sold separately).

On-Chip Column A/D Conversion

Analog-to-digital signal conversion is performed by the full frame Exmor™ CMOS image sensor.

Updated Image Data Converter SR3

Updated Image Data Converter SR3 software improves your workflow with faster RAW file processing and improved image correction.

Eyepiece Shutter

The α850 includes a built-in eyepiece shutter which can be shut to help shield against entering light and prevent exposure errors.

Mirror Lockup Mode

Mirror Lockup Mode raises the main mirror before exposure to reduce vibration at shutter release, resulting in better performance during long exposure shots of fireworks, stars, etc.

Image Data Lightbox software

The Image Data Lightbox software included with your Sony^®α DSLR helps you browse, rate, and compare your images, making it easier to select your favorites for further processing.

Convenient Button Placement

Concentrate on your shooting and make adjustments on the fly thanks to convenient button placement. The ISO and White Balance adjustment buttons are located on the top of the camera body near the shutter button for easy thumb operation.

Product Specifications

Recording

Media Type : Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media / Compact Flash Type I, Type II (Microdrive),UDMA(Mode5) compliant
Color Space : sRGB, AdobeRGB
Still Image Mode : cRAW+JPEG(Fine), RAW+JPEG(Fine), cRAW(compressed), RAW, JPEG Extra fine, JPEG Fine, JPEG Standard
Still Image Max Effective Resolution : Approx. 24.6 megapixels
Still Image Size 16:9 : L size: 6048 x 3408 (21M) M size: 4400 x 2472 (11M) S size: 3024 x 1704 (5.2M)
Still Image Size 3:2 : L size:6048 x 4032 (24.6M) M size: 4400 x 2936 (13M) S size: 3024 x 2016 (6.1M)

LCD Display

LCD Type : 3.0" TFT Xtra Fine™ LCD (921,600 pixels)
Brightness Control : �5 steps manual
Coverage : 100% (Playback)

Drive System

Continuous Shooting Speed : 3 fps max
Drive Mode : Single-shot, Cont., Self-timer, Bracket; single/cont./WB/DRO adv., Mirror Lock-up, Remote Commander
Self-timer : Yes (10 seconds, 2 seconds with mirror-up function)
Shutter Speeds : 1/8000 to 30 seconds, bulb

Interface

BRAVIA® Sync™ : Yes, via HDMI with compatible BRAVIA HDTV
HD Output : HDMI (TypeC mini)
Memory Card Slot : Dual memory card slot: Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media Compact Flash memory card
Tripod Mount : Yes, 1/4"-20
USB Port(s) : Yes, Supports USB 2.0 Hi-speed

Software

Supplied Software : Image Data Converter SR3.1 (Windows & Macintosh) Image Data Lightbox SR2.1 (Windows & Macintosh) Remote Camera Control 2.0 (Windows & Macintosh) PMB -P icture Motion Browser 4.2.13 (Windows only)
Operating System Compatibility : Windows 2000 Professional SP4 Windows XP* SP3 Windows Vista** SP1 Mac OS X(v10.1.3-v10.5)

Camera

Lens Compatibility : Sony A-mount lens
Lens Mount : Sony A-mount
Camera Type : Sony A-mount interchangeable lens digital camera

Optics/Lens

Lens Mount Type : Sony A-mount

Focus Control

Focus System : TTL phase detection system
Focus Points : 9 points (center dual cross type) with 10 assist focus points
AF Modes : Single-shot AF, Automatic AF, Continuous AF, (AF/MF selectable)
Focus Area : Wide (Auto, up to 9 areas), Spot, Local (9 local areas selectable)
Focus Sensitivity : 0 EV to +18 EV(at ISO100 equivalent)
AF Illuminator : Yes (Built-in LED)

Flash

Flash Compensation : �3 EV (0.3EV, 0.5EV steps selectable)
Flash Bracketing : 3 frames, 0.3/0.5/0.7/2.0 EV steps selectable
Flash Metering System : ADI flash (automatic change for Pre-flash TTL)
Flash Modes : Auto, Fill-flash, Rear sync, Wireless (with Flash HVL-F58AM, HVL-F42AM, HVL-F56AM, F36AM)

Weights and Measurements

Dimensions (Approx.) : (WHD) 6-1/8” x 4-5/8” x 3-1/4” (156.3 x 116.9 x 81.9mm) (excl. protrusions)
Weight (Approx.) : Approx. 1lb-14oz (850g) without battery, memory card, accessories

Service and Warranty Information

Limited Warranty Term : 1 Year Parts & Labor

Imaging Sensor

Imaging Sensor : 35mm Full-frame Exmor™ CMOS sensor
Processor : Dual BIONZ™ processors
Anti Dust : Charge protection coating on Low-Pass Filter and Image Sensor-Shift mechanism
Pixel Gross : Approx. 25.7 megapixels
Effective Picture Resolution : Approx. 24.6 megapixels
Color Filter System : RGB primary color filters

Viewfinder

Type : Fixed eye-level system with optical glass pentaprism
Diopter Adjustment : -3.0 to +1.0m-1
Field of View : 98%
Focusing Screen : Spherical Acute Matte Screen
Magnification : 0.74x (with 50mm lens at infinity)

Exposure System

Metering : TTL metering w/ 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC
Metering Modes : Multi-segment, Center-weighted, Spot, Auto Exposure Lock (AEL button)
Metering Sensitivity : 0 EV to 20 EV (+2 EV to +20EV with Spot metering), (at ISO 100 equivalent with F1.4 lens)
Exposure Compensation : �3.0 EV (in 0.3EV, 0.5EV steps)
Exposure Settings : Auto, Program Auto (P, with Program Shift), Shutter Priority (S), Aperture Priority (A), Manual (M)
Scene Mode(s) : Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, Night, Autumn, B/W, Sepia
D-Range Optimizer : Yes: (Auto, Level 1-5, off)
Color Temperature : 2500 - 9900 k with 19-step Magenta / Green compensation
Creative Style : Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Clear, Deep, Light, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, Night, Autumn, B/W, Sepia
ISO : Auto, selectable 100 to 6400 (in 1/3 EV steps)
White Balance Mode : Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Flash, Custom

Advanced Features

Advanced User Interface : Easy-to-understand Graphic Display and on-screen Help Guide User-friendly function menu
Image Stabilization : SteadyShot INSIDE� in-body image stabilization

Power

Battery Type : InfoLITHIUM® NP-FM500H (7.2V)
Battery Capacity : 7.2V, CIPA standard: approx. 880 pictures³
Number of Still Images : Approx. 880 shots (CIPA standard)

Convenience

Removable Flash Media Compatibility :

In the Box

Video Cable
Body cap
NOTE: No Memory media is included.

M-series Lithium-Ion Battery (NP-FM500H)
USB Cable
Accessory shoe cap
NOTE: No lens included

Battery Charger w/cord (BC-VM10)
Shoulder strap with eyepiece cap and Remote Commander clip
Software/USB Driver CD-ROM

Product Profile

Support

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DSLR-A850 4.3 5 18 18

Great but not fantastic I had a chance to use the a850 and took photos of my kids at a baseball game. The quality was fantastic but when the sky was a slight overcast the image was quite darker than it should be. Even in bright but cloudy weather I had to use the flash (not supplied) Overall a great camera, a bit heavy. But with as many features packed into it, it should be. May 20, 2011

Basically great images great price Had camera less than two weeks, still experimenting with use. Test images look fantastic. Yes noisy in lower light but can be corrected easily. Supplied software is good but not pro quality, pros need photoshop/lightroom. Used to shoot Konicas so wanted to stay with Konica/minolta line, No regrets. Can't wait to shoot some more. Sample attached (large file) April 6, 2011

Sony A850 I purchased a SonyA850 as I wanted a full frame camera. After much research I picked the Sony. I have had no problems with it. It takes beautiful pictures. I do like to take photos in almost no light conditions, and unfortunately the camera does not perform well in low low light. But, at least the Sony tries which is more than I can say for my Nikon D80. I believe many people are equating SONY with their walkman and gaming devices, and are really not giving them credit for developing a full frame quality camera in the price range a consumer can actually afford. There is no such thing as a perfect camera as each has its ups and downs, but Sony did a darn good job with the A850 and A900 and I am happy with mine. January 12, 2011

Alpha 850 A great camera at a relatively decent price. This camera delivers and even more! i am very happy with this purchase. Now i am on a quest to find good lenses at good prices for the alpha 850. December 21, 2010

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VIEW FOOTNOTES

1. World’s highest as of September 2008

2. Viewable area, measured diagonally.

3. HD viewing requires HDMI™ cable and HDMI™ compatible HDTV (both sold separately). PhotoTV HD viewing requires PhotoTV HD capable Sony® BRAVIA® HDTV (sold separately).

4. Requires Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Professional SP4, Windows XP SP2, or Windows Vista®. Not supported by Mac OS.

5. When a DT lens is mounted, images are automatically cropped to the APS-C size, regardless of the APS-C size capture setting. Using a DT lens is not guaranteed because the corners of the field are darkened and the camera does not meet the primary AE performance standard.

6. Performance not guaranteed with lenses produced by other manufacturers.

7. Under average conditions; when fully charged, actual results may vary based on camera settings and conditions of use.

© 2009 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Sony, α, BIONZ, BRAVIA, Sync, Xtra Fine LCD Plus, SteadyShot INSIDE™, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo, InfoLITHIUM, HDNA, and Stamina, are trademarks of Sony. HDMI is a trademark of HDMI Licencing LLC. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Non-metric weights and measurements are approximate and may vary.