Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens Features
The Difference is Speed.
The perfect shot comes and goes in the blink of an eye. Equipped with Sony's revolutionary new Translucent Mirror Technology, the a33 DSLR cameras capture the decisive momentwith unrivaled speed and precision. And you can enjoy the accuracy of phase-detection auto focus for both stills and Full HD video recordingall while monitoring your shots through the Live View LCD or 1.44 million-dot electronic viewfinder.
Why a Translucent Mirror?
Put simply, Translucent Mirror Technology lets the camera focus and shoot simultaneously. Unlike other DSLRs, the mirror in these cameras never moves. This is the world's first DSLR to ever pull off such a feat, eliminating the time needed to raise and lower the mirror. The benefit is blindingly-fast continuous shooting at class-leading speeds of up to 10 fps in Continuous Priority AE mode.
Translucent Mirror Technology
Other DSLRs can shoot. Or they can focus with the speed and precision of Phase Detection AF. They cannot do both at once. The SLT-A33 is the worlds first DSLR with Translucent Mirror Technology that directs light to both the image sensor and the Phase Detection AF sensor simultaneously.
7 frames per second continuous
The translucent mirror makes it far easier to capture the decisive soccer kick or your baby at her absolute cutest. The Sony SLT-A33 camera shoots full, 14.2 MP resolution pictures at up to 7 fps while maintaining continuous auto focus and auto exposure.
Quick AF for Full HD Movie1 Capture
When most DSLRs shoot video, their Contrast AF is slow and visibly hunts for focus. The Quick AF Full HD Movie1 retains the same fast, precise Phase Detection you enjoy for still images. Its a decisive advantage for tracking fast-moving subjects and a major benefit of Translucent Mirror Technology.
14.2 megapixel resolution
You get incredible detail and gorgeous enlargements. Thanks to the 14.2 megapixel APS-C sensor size and Sony Exmor APS HD CMOS technology, the camera achieves high resolution with no penalty in low-light sensitivity or sensor noise.
APS-C size HD CMOS image sensor
With 19.5 times the area of the typical camcorder image sensor7, APS-C makes the difference between amateur and professional-looking video, delivering an exceptional combination of high resolution, high sensitivity and gorgeous, blurred backgrounds.
Sony Exmor technology
Conventional image sensors use only a handful of analog-to-digital (A/D) converters, which can slow you down. The Exmor sensor provides more than 4,000 column-parallel A/D converters. This helps enable continuous shooting at up to 7 frames per second.
Full HD 1080/60i movies1
This is one of the very few DSLRs with 1080/60i Full HD, exactly the same resolution and frame rate as most broadcast and cable HDTV channels. Records in 1080/60i AVCHD format, 1080/30p high definition in PC-friendly MP4 format and standard definition 480/30p in MP4 format.1
Multi-frame NR
Experience incredible low-light shooting without a flash. The camera captures six images in a fraction of a second. Combining the data from all six, it creates a single image with a reduction in noise equivalent to two additional steps of ISO sensitivity. Sensitivity selectable up to ISO 25600. (Recommended for still subjects.)
Hand-held Night Shot
Get cleaner and sharper nighttime picturesbeyond the capability of traditional cameraswithout using flash or a tripod. The camera captures six images in a fraction of a second. Combining the data with separate algorithms for still and moving parts of the picture reduces blur, minimizes noise and enables extraordinary detail.
Auto HDR built into camera
Captures more scene dynamic range than a single exposure can handleand more range than photo film. Combines the best highlight detail from one shot, the best mid-tones from a second and the best shadow detail from a third for one incredible shot. Captures in a split second. (Recommended for still subjects.)
3D Sweep Panorama Mode3
Capture vast scenic vistas and 16:9 shots in spectacular 3D. As you sweep across the panorama, the camera records separate right-eye and left-eye images that make landscapes come alive on your 3D television3. Records both JPEG and MPO file formats.
Eye-Level Electronic Viewfinder
The Tru-finder Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) is super bright, easy to see with 1.1x magnification, ultra-sharp with 1.44 million dots (1.15 effective) and provides 100% frame coverage. Exposure preview and informative overlays make operation easy.
Eye-level finder for HD Movie
The eye-level finder is one of the reasons people love DSLRs. But that finder goes dark whenever you shoot HD Movies. Until now. The Sony SLT-A33 enables you to shoot movies with the added stability you get holding the camera up to your face and using the eye-level finder for framing a scene and focus.
15-point Auto Focus
To maximize the value of Translucent Mirror Technology, Sony incorporates Phase Detection AF of great sophistication. Three cross sensors maximize precision.
Tilt/swivel 3in. LCD screen2
Tilt it up or down to frame high- and low-angle shots that would otherwise be hit-or-miss. Tilt and swivel under the camera for self-portraits. Fold it flush to the camera with the LCD exposed for shooting or protected for travel.
921K dot TruBlack LCD screen
Sony's Xtra Fine LCD monitor has 921K dots for superb resolution. The TruBlack screen includes a special resin layer to suppress internal reflections, increasing contrast compared to conventional LCDs. Sunny Weather mode boosts visibility even further in bright sunlight.
Main Sensor Quick AF Live View
This the worlds first DSLR to combine the optimum focus of Phase Detection with high quality Live View images right from the main sensor. This is made possible by Sony Translucent Mirror Technology. You get accurate images and 100% framing on the LCD monitor or eye-level viewfinder.
Live View in LCD or EVF
You can use both the LCD monitor and Electronic Viewfinder for composing shots. Both provide a what-you-see-is-what-you-get preview of white balance, focus, depth of field, exposure and 100% framing accuracy, plus informative on-screen displays.
Phase Detection Auto Focus
While Contrast Detection AF often hunts for correct focus, Phase Detection AF knows exactly where correct focus is, and goes straight for it. The Sony SLT-A33 is the worlds first consumer camera to provide Phase Detection AF when capturing HD movies as well as during still image capture, either using the viewfinder or Live View on the LCD.
ISO 12800 sensitivity
Incredibly clear low-light pictures without sacrificing detail, made possible by the low-noise Exmor APS HD CMOS image sensor and refined BIONZ image processor.
AUTO+ (Advanced Auto) mode
Get cleaner, more dynamic pictures and fewer missed shots. Unifies and simplifies Sony intelligent technologies, the camera automatically recognizes the correct scene mode, then quickly shoots and combines up to six shots to produce images with greater clarity, optimum dynamic range using Auto HDR technology and lower image noise using 6 shots layering technology.
Sweep Panorama Mode
Capture expansive landscapes automatically. Press the shutter and sweep vertically or horizontally. The camera does the rest, continuously shooting images and stitching them together. Up to 23 MP image size.
Powerful creative control over movies
While the camera offers fully automatic movie shooting1, you can also control aperture (A mode w/ MF only), white balance and select Creative Style. During a movie shot, you can change the metering mode and adjust exposure compensation.
Pro-style rack focus movie effect
A hallmark of todays movies is the rack focus effect, when the cinematographer changes focus between background and foreground subjects. This usually involves careful planning, a tape measure and dedicated a crew member for pulling focus. With the SLT-A33, you can perform this pro-style effect simply by changing the selected AF Area within the frame.
Compact, lightweight deign
Eliminating the moving mirror also reduces the cameras size and weight. Its not just remarkably advanced; its notably small and light.
Help Guide
Provides ready reference to advanced camera functions, helping to develop your confidence and skills as a photographer.
Graphic Display
Clarifies the relationship between aperture and shutter speed, as well as the effect each has on photographic results.
BIONZ image processor
The brains of the camera is a refined version of Sony's BIONZ image processor. Its chroma noise reduction delivers high-resolution, low-noise photos even at ISO 12800 sensitivity. Also enables 7 fps continuous shooting at full resolution, Sweep Panorama mode and more.
Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO)
Improves results with backlit subjects and recovers details hidden in shadows. Settings include Auto, Level with a choice of five operating levels and Off.
1200-Zone exposure metering
Reads exposure directly from the main image sensor. Choice of Multi, Center and Spot metering accommodates a full range of shooting situations.
RAW image capture
Saves your pictures as compact JPEG files or ultra-high quality RAW files or both. RAW files save images prior to de-mosaicing, white balance, sharpness and color enhancement. This retains maximum latitude for enhancing the image on your PC.
SteadyShot INSIDE stabilization
Image stabilization reduces blur by compensating for camera shake. Typical DSLR systems build image stabilization into selected lenses only. SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization is built into the camera body itself. You'll reduce blur with every a-mount lens, including macro and wide-aperture standard zoom lenses.
Powerful supplied software
To help you refine and manage your images and video, the camera is equipped with computer software including Image Data Converter SR, Image Data Lightbox SR and Picture Motion Browser (PMB).8
Face Detection technology
The camera can automatically detect up to eight individual faces and adjust focus, exposure, white balance and flash to help deliver crisp, properly lit images of family and friends. Can prioritize children or adults.
Smile Shutter technology
Captures a smile the moment it happens. Simply select the Smile Shutter mode and the camera takes the picture automatically. You can prioritize children or adults and adjust the smile sensitivity.
HDMI output for HD viewing
Enjoy HD movies and stunning still images on a compatible HDTV. The camera includes an HDMI output9. In addition, the BRAVIA Sync system works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs enabling you to control camera playback using the television's remote4.
Eight Scene Selection Modes
These help you get the shot by optimizing the camera for specific shooting situations. Select from Portrait, Sports Action, Macro, Landscape, Sunset, Night View, Night Portrait and Handheld Twilight Shot modes.
Six Creative Style settings
Control how the camera processes your images with six finishing styles: Standard, Vivid, B&W, Sunset, Portrait and Landscape. You can even fine-tune contrast, saturation, and sharpness to your personal taste.
Up to 270 Shots of battery life5
Take up to 270 shots on a single charge with Sony Stamina battery power.5 Sony's InfoLITHIUM battery system enables you to see the percent of power remaining, so you can keep shooting in confidence.
P/A/S/M exposure modes
The camera offers a full range of controls from the beginner's AUTO+ mode to P/A/S/M: Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual. On-screen prompts help you refine your skills, build your confidence and exercise greater creative control.
Anti-Dust Technology
Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the CMOS sensor clean, resulting in consistently clear pictures. First a static-free coating on the sensor's low-pass filter helps repel dust. Then vibration automatically dislodges dust from the sensor.
Built-in Auto Pop-Up Flash
To help you shoot more effectively, the built-in flash automatically pops up and fires as needed when the camera is set to certain scene selection modes. The built-in flash can also trigger a wireless accessory flash (sold separately). The integrated hot shoe enables you to expand your lighting options with a range of accessory flashes (sold separately).
Versatile on-screen displays
Informative displays in the LCD monitor and electronic viewfinder include digital level gauge, graphic display of exposure settings.
Slot for two media types
For cost-effective, convenient storage and sharing of your images, the camera accepts Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC/SDXC media (Class 4 or higher recommended). (Memory card is required. All are sold separately.)
PhotoTV HD compatibility6
Optimizes compatible BRAVIA televisions for gorgeous display of digital pictures.6
Index and Slide Show Display
Quickly review your photos using 6- or 12-frame index views, or as an automatic slide show with fade-in/fade-out effect.
Remote capability
Works with the RMT-DSLR1 Remote Commander wireless remote control, sold separately.
Footnotes
1 Movie recording is limited to segments of 29 minutes, maximum. When using movie mode Memory Stick PRO Duo with MARK2 logo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo, or Class 4 or higher for SD/SDHC media are recommended.
2 Viewable area measured diagonally
3 3D viewing requires 3D HDTV, a high speed HDMI cable (supporting at least 10.2 Gbps) connection and 3D glasses (all sold separately).
4 Works with other BRAVIA Sync or Theatre Sync labeled HDTVs when connected via HDMI interface. Mini-HDMI-to-HDMI cable required, sold separately.
5 When fully charged. Actual results may vary based on product settings, usage patterns and environmental conditions.
6 PhotoTV HD viewing requires compatible BRAVIA HDTV and HDMI or component cable (all sold separately).
7 More than 19.5 times the area of 1/2.88-inch type sensor of the Sony HDR-CX550V.
8 PMB requires Microsoft Windows XP SP3/ Windows Vista SP2/ Windows 7. Mac OS not supported. Movie format is compatible with iMovie 09 or later versions.
9 HD Viewing requires a mini-HDMI-to-HDMI cable and compatible HDTV, both sold separately.
Customers most agreed on the following attributes:
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
I bought this camera for two reasons
1. The translucent mirror technology. When shooting video of objects in motion the object stays in focus.
2. All of the reviews for this camera were very positive.
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
right out of the box it was great to use. just need to get the right cards. since it is different from previous camera cards. All the lenses that I have from the other camera fits, yes...
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
I bought the camera to take action shoots of my son's volleyball games for his high school team. and it is perfect for that
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
awesome camera.
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
Right out of the box this camera was extremely easy to use. Everything is user friendly. Still learning everything there is to learn about it. Can't wait to take it on vacation. Also, an added bonus is that all of my Minolta lens fit it so I don't have to spend a fortune on extra lenses. If you want a quality camera that's easy to use, buy this one. Excellent!!
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
I RESEARCHED SEVERAL CAMERAS AND KITS. THIS WAS THE BEST CAMERA AND EVEN BETTER KIT. I RECEIVED SEVERAL RECOMENDATIONS FOR THIS CAMERA AND VIEWED SEVERAL PICS TAKEN WITH A33, SHOTS WERE GREAT. CAN'T WAIT TO USE THE CAMERA ON AN ONCOMING TRIP.
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
Have used in for past week or so. Extremely easy to learn. Manually setting Aperture, Shutter speed etc is cleverly easy and handy. The lens movement when changing the zoom level could have been smoother. It seem like the lens barrel need lubricant :). However, this does not affect the zoom operation, so this point can be ignored.
Overall, I am very much impressed by this camera.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
This is my first SLT camera and love it. The auto-focus is quick and accurate and adjustable while making videos. Noticed the camera will overheat after about 7 minutes of shooting continuous video but I hear that is not uncommon for SLR cameras. I bought the A33 vs the A55 to save a few bucks and didn't see the need for 10 shot bursts vs. 7 and the GPS.
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
Every thing about this camera is great... It is a very finger friendly device where it only takes seconds to get to the options that you are looking for. It also comes with a decent wide angle lens, but since the camera is so great the lens quality (i.e. the f-stop of the camera) is not so important if you don't have a big budget for f1.4 and f2.8 lens. This camera is ultra fast and makes professional quality photos every time. This camera has the most state of the art technology powering it. The Translucent mirror makes the camera lightning fast...just hold and "let her rip" off a stunting 7 frames per second. The only thing that I would say is if you can afford the SLT-55VL get that one because it is the better of the two in its line.
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
I have an old SLR and have been comparing and studying for almost a year before deciding on the DSLR camera for me. I am so very happy that I decided to purchase this camera. It is really awesome and easy to use and often does not even require a flash to produce beautiful indoor images. The mirror image tehnology is amazing. It was well worth the wait. I have not had an opportunity to view the video images yet as I just started using this camera. I recommend it highly for photographic needs.
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
The Sony a33 is so easy to use. All you have to do is open the the box, charge the battery and start shooting with the auto settings. This is my first DSLR and I am very pleased with my choice. Not to mention that my old 35mm Minolta af lenses work perfectly with this camera.
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
The only downside is dismal battery life. You will need a back-up for active shooting.
[5 of 5 customers found this review helpful]
Comments about Sony Sony SLT-A33L Digital SLR Camera w/DT 18-55mm Zoom Lens:
Pet photos, family shots, landscape.
The camera is everything I'd hope it to be. Easy to use, takes fantsstic pictures. All my old minolta lens work great on the Sony.