Sony DSLR

 

Sony DSLR review: how does Sony compare to Nikon and Canon?

Today's article is a review of Sony DSLR cameras. Every time I mention the differences between Canon and Nikon DSLRs, I get (often angry) emails from readers (almost certainly Sony photographers) who want an explanation as to why I don't write more about Sony DSLRs. So naturally, I don't want to start an interstellar war over petty differences between camera manufacturers. Still, we photographers should know about the differences between camera systems so we can make informed decisions about which brand is worth our hard-earned money.

I want to mention that I'd love to see Sony succeed in the DSLR market if only to put some fire under Nikon and Canon. In my opinion, competition is always a good thing. So I'm rooting for Sony, but as you'll see below, there are some severe drawbacks to buying the Sony system.

Advantages of Sony DSLR cameras (Pro)

Pro #1: Autofocus for video

Many Sony DSLR cameras use a "pellicle mirror" to display the image in the viewfinder. Unlike a conventional DSLR mirror, which is opaque, the pellicle mirror allows most of the light to pass through to the sensor, while some light is used to create the electronic viewfinder image. This technology is new to current DSLRs but has been used in cameras for years.

Using this technology in Sony's DSLR cameras has many advantages, including full-time autofocus for video. This also means that the viewfinder doesn't go dark when a picture is taken. Unfortunately, it also means that some of the light that might get to the sensor gets soaked up in the mirror. You know what that means: poorer performance in low-light conditions. Sony claims to overcome this limitation with advanced noise reduction, but I can't help but think how good the camera could be if it used all the light. Low light performance is the most important feature I look for in a DSLR.

Pro#2: Adjustable ISO Auto

This is a feature I've wanted for years, and I'm happy Sony included it in the Sony a77 DSLR. I love shooting in aperture priority mode whenever I can, but I've to constantly watch my shutter speed, so it doesn't get too low when I'm shooting in the evening when the light is fading fast. So imagine if I could set my aperture and shutter speed and then know that the ISO would automatically increase to allow proper exposure up to a certain level where I know the camera won't produce too much noise. Very useful for wildlife and sports photographers.

Pro #3: High frame rates

If you look at the specs of Sony's DSLRs, you won't be more impressed with anything than the frame rates. They're truly remarkable. For example, the Sony a77 can shoot 12 frames per second at 24 megapixels. I'd certainly want to use that every day, but it would be INCREDIBLE for sports, wildlife or children's shots. I better stop writing about 12 frames per second before I can't stop myself from Amazon.com. It begs me to buy one just for the speed I need.