Sony Alpha DSLR-A850
The α850 model shares the same 24.6 megapixel sensor and most features of the flagship α900 camera, introduced last year, but will be available for just under $2000 (body only). The α850 camera is designed to deliver ultra-fine picture quality with a high resolution, 24.6-megapixel, 35-mm full-frame Exmor™ CMOS sensor and fast image processing with dual BIONZ™ processing engines. It also offers high-speed continuous shooting of 24.6 megapixel images at up to three frames per second.
The rugged Sony a850 DSLR features a 35mm full-frame, 24.6-megapixel Exmor CMOS image sensor and SteadyShot INSIDE body-integrated image stabilization for a full-frame DSLR. In addition, Dual BIONZ imaging processors allow continuous shooting up to 3fps with superb image quality and ultra-low noise.
Alpha a850 Highlights
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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.
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 DSLR. 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 a (alpha) system lenses.
Dual BIONZ processors for up to fast 5fps performance
The A850 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.
Ultra bright, 98-percent 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 percent field coverage for detailed framing work.
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.
3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD (921K pixels)
Review your images in stunning detail on the 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD 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.
PhotoTV HD viewing w/ HDMI output
The A850 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.
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.
Rugged magnesium alloy shell
The body of the A850 is entirely covered in a die-cast magnesium-alloy shell, providing a rugged feel and surprisingly lightweight.
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.
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Battery Performance
A supplied InfoLITHIUM lithium-ion battery provides long-lasting performance, allowing you to capture approximately 880 images on a single charge.
Durable Shutter Design
The shutter mechanism in the A850 is designed to achieve shutter speeds up to 1/8000 seconds and proven for 98,000 cycle operation.
Dual Card Slots
The A850 features a dual card slots and accepts both CompactFlash and Memory Stick Duo Media (sold separately).
40-Segment Multi-Pattern Metering
A 40-segment multi-pattern metering system provides superior exposure control accuracy in a wide range of lighting conditions.
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To recover details in dark or bright areas of the image, the A850 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.
On-Chip Column A/D Conversion
Analog-to-digital signal conversion is performed by the full frame Exmor CMOS image sensor.
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.
F2.8 Sensor
The autofocus system in the A850 features a highly accurate F2.8 sensor for improved focus precision when using lenses faster than F2.8.
Updated Image Data Converter SR3
Updated Image Data Converter SR3 software improves your workflow with faster RAW file processing and improved image correction.
APS-C Size Capturing
In addition to full frame image capture, the A850 can also crop images to the APS-C size format, allowing the use of lenses designed specifically for APS-C sized image sensors.
Viewfinder magnification of 0.74x
Viewfinder magnification of 0.74x lets you see your subjects nearer to actual size.
Eyepiece Shutter
The A850 includes a built-in eyepiece shutter which can be shut to help shield against entering light and prevent exposure errors.
AF Micro Adjustment
AF Micro Adjustment allows you to fine tune focus for various lenses. The A850 can store adjusted focus values for up to thirty lenses.
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.
2EV Exposure Bracketing (3 exposures)
The A850 allows you to bracket up to three exposures in 2.0EV-step increments.
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 A850 with comfort and confidence.
Image Data Lightbox software
The Image Data Lightbox software included with your Sony a; (alpha) DSLR helps you browse, rate, and compare your images, making it easier to select your favorites for further processing.
Remote Camera Control
Remote Camera Control allows you to control your A850 from your PC.
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.
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.
Optional Focusing Screens (sold separately)
User-replaceable focusing screens for shooting specific subject types can be purchased as optional accessories.
Ultra-Fine Images
The camera’s Exmor CMOS sensor delivers the photographic expressive power of wide angles and perspective that only a 35 mm full-frame sensor can offer, and is designed to take advantage of the resolving power of high-precision alpha lenses. Its high pixel count and large size provide enhanced image detail and a wider dynamic range for natural color reproduction and subtle tonal gradations.
Image processing gets a boost in speed and power from two BIONZ processing engines. Large amounts of data captured by the 24.6-megapixel sensor can be quickly processed to achieve a fast shooting response. Additionally, this dual BIONZ system applies advanced noise reduction algorithms producing images of exceptional quality and detail, especially at high ISO sensitivities.
Capture the Right Shot the First Time
The camera’s innovative intelligent preview function takes the guesswork out of setting up a shot and the hassle of taking multiple shots to achieve a desired effect.
After pressing the depth of field preview button, the camera “grabs” a RAW preview image which is processed and displayed on the LCD screen. You can then fine tune white balance, determine the best level and effect of dynamic range optimization, adjust exposure compensation and check histogram data, all before you actually take the picture. Preview images are not recorded on the camera’s memory card, thus saving capacity.
The camera’s autofocus system features nine sensors with 10 assist points for improved tracking of moving subjects. A center dual cross sensor comprised of two horizontal and two vertical line sensors as well as a dedicated f/2.8 sensor are included to achieve greater precision, especially when using fast-aperture lenses.
Ultra-Bright Viewfinder with 98 Percent Coverage
The ultra-bright viewfinder with 98 percent field of view coverage and 0.74x magnification enables accurate framing and preview. It features a high-power condenser lens, an eyepiece with high reflective-index glass, and a multi-layer, anti-reflective coating on optical surfaces to deliver its extraordinarily bright view.
A mirror box features a parallel-link mirror mechanism that moves on two horizontal axes to accommodate both the large full frame mirror and the body-integrated image stabilization system without increasing the camera’s size.
Anti-Shake System for a Full-Frame Sensor
With its body-integrated SteadyShot INSIDE™ image stabilization, the camera achieves an anti-shake effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4 stops. The anti-shake system stabilizes all Sony, Minolta and Konica-Minolta compatible lenses even wide angle or large aperture lenses.
Versatility to Unleash Creative Possibilities
Other key features aimed to expand creative options include the Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) with five levels of user-selectable correction as well as DRO bracketing for enhanced scene analysis and graduation optimization. EV bracketing with ±2EV range makes it easy to create high dynamic range composite images.
With the camera’s HDMI™ output and Photo TV HD mode, your creative output can be enjoyed on a compatible HD television. This mode brings the look of actual printed photography to the television, by fine-tuning such image parameters as sharpness, gradation, and color reproduction.
The A850 model features a 3-inch (diagonally), Xtra Fine LCD™ screen (921K) making it possible to check focus and image quality with accuracy. It incorporates an easy-to-see display with a quick navigation menu to easily access common functions without interrupting your creative flow. A backlit LCD panel sits on top of the camera and displays key settings.
The camera includes dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo™, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™, HX series and CompactFlash® media.
Bright Lens
The choice of full-frame lenses to complement the α850 model is enhanced with the new SAL2875 28-75mm F2.8 SAM lens. This compact, easy-to-carry lens is ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to add a bright, general purpose zoom to their collection of full-frame optics.
Delivering excellent imaging quality at an accessible price, it offers a wide F2.8 aperture over its entire zoom range. Ideal for day-to-day shooting tasks, its bright constant aperture makes the 28-75mm F2.8 SAM particularly valuable for depth-of-field control and available-light portraits.
| Body material | Magnesium Body |
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| Sensor | • 35.9 x 24.0 mm CMOS sensor 'Exmor' • RGB Color Filter Array • Built-in fixed low-pass filter • 25.7 million total pixels • 24.6 million effective pixels • On-chip Column A/D Conversion & NR |
| Image sizes [Still] | • 6048 x 4032 (24M 3:2) |
| File qualities / formats | • RAW (.ARW 2.0) • Compressed or uncompressed RAW option • RAW + JPEG Fine • JPEG Extra Fine • JPEG Fine • JPEG Standard |
| Dust reduction | • Charge protection coating on low-pass filter • CCD-shift dust reduction mechanism |
| Lenses | • Sony Alpha lenses (also compatible with Minolta A-type bayonet mount lenses) • Can be used with DT (1.5x crop) lenses in APS-C mode |
| FOV crop | 1.0 x |
| Image Stabilization | • CCD-Shift ' SteadyShot INSIDE' system • Five level LED shake indicator in viewfinder • Claimed equivalent to 2.5 EV- 4 EV steps in shutter speed |
| Auto Focus | • TTL CCD line sensors (9-points, center dual cross types + 10 assist sensors) • EV 0 to 18 (ISO 100) detection range • Predictive focus control for moving subjects |
| AF area selection | • Wide AF area |
| Focus modes | • Single-shot AF • Direct Manual Focus • Continuous AF • Automatic AF • Manual focus • AF micro adjustment (+/- 20 steps for up to 30 lenses) |
| AF assist illuminator |
• Yes (built-in LED lamp) • Range approx 1m - 7m |
| Eye-start AF | No |
| Shooting modes | • Auto |
| Sensitivity | • Auto (200 - 1600) - upper/lower limit selectable * |
| Metering modes | • Multi-segment (40 segment Honeycomb pattern) • Center-weighted • Spot |
| Metering range | • TTL metering • 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC • EV 0 to 20 (Multi-segment / Center-weighted) • EV 2 to 20 (Spot metering) (at ISO 100 with F1.4 lens) |
| AE Lock | • AEL button (customizable) • Half-press shutter release |
| AE Bracketing | • Single or continuous bracketing • 3 or 5 frames • 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 or 2.0 EV steps* *2.0 EV steps for 3 frames only |
| Exposure compen. | • -3.0 to +3.0 EV • 0.3 or 0.5 EV steps |
| Shutter | Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane Shutter |
| Shutter Speed | • 30 to 1/8000 sec • Bulb |
| Flash X-sync | • 1/250 sec • 1/200 sec (with SteadyShot INSIDE on) |
| Aperture values | Depends on lens, 0.3 EV steps |
| DOF preview | Yes, dedicated button |
| White balance | • Auto |
| White balance fine tuning | • Auto (none) • Preset WB: -3 to +3 • Fluorescent WB: -2 to +4 • Color temperature WB: G9 to M9 (19 step Magenta / Green compensation) |
| White balance bracketing | • 3 frames • Hi or Lo steps |
| Dynamic range optimizer | • Off |
| Color space | • sRGB • Adobe RGB |
| Color modes | • Standard • Vivid • Neutral • Clear • Deep • Light • Portrait • Landscape • Sunset • Night view • Autumn Leaves • B&W • Sepia |
| Image parameters | • Contrast (-3 to +3) • Saturation (-3 to +3) • Sharpness (-3 to +3) • Zone Matching (-1 to +2 steps) • Brightness (-3 to +3 steps) (Available in all color modes) |
| Noise reduction | • Long exposure for exposures longer than 1 second (User controllable: On / Off) • High ISO NR High/Normal/Low/Off at ISO 1600 or higher |
| Viewfinder | • Eye-level fixed optical glass pentaprism |
| LCD monitor | • 3.0" 'Xtra Fine' TFT LCD |
| Flash compensation | -3.0 to +3.0 EV in 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 2.0 EV steps |
| Flash Mode | Auto, Fill-Flash, Rear sync , High Speed Sync |
| External flash (optional) | • Sony HVL-F58M • Sony HVL-F56M • Sony HVL-F42M • Sony HVL-F36M • Macro Twin Flash Kit HVL-MT24AM • Ring Light HVL-RLAM • Off camera flash shoe FA-CS1 AM |
| Drive modes | • Single-frame • Continuous (H/L selectable) • Self-timer (10 or 2 sec) • Mirror-Up • Continuous bracket • Single-frame bracket • White balance bracket • DRO bracket • Mirror Lock-Up • Remote Commander |
| Continuous shooting * |
Approx 3 fps max • RAW: Up to 16 frames • cRAW (compressed): Up to 18 frames • RAW+JPEG: Up to12 frames • cRAW+JPEG : Up to 12 frames • JPEG (XFINE): Up to 34 frames • JPEG (STD/FINE): 593/384 |
| Self-timer | • 10 sec |
| Orientation sensor | Yes, for shooting, playback and control panel display |
| Connectivity | • USB 2.0 Hi-Speed (mass storage, Multi-LUN or PTP) • Video out (NTSC or PAL) • HDMI type C mini jack • DC-IN • Remote terminal • PC control (with supplied software) |
| Remote control * | • Wired: with optional RM-S1AM or RM-L1AM • Wireless: with optional RM-DSLR1) |
| Video out | • AV (Selectable NTSC or PAL) • HDMI (1920 x 1080i, 1280 x 720p, 720 x 580p, 720 x 576p) • 'PhotoTV' HD settings applied with BRAVIA. |
| Storage | • Compact Flash Type I/II, UDMA Mode 5 compliant • Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo, PRO-HG Duo • Supports FAT12 / FAT16 / FAT32 |
| Power | • NP-FM500H Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery (1650 mAh) • CR2025 Wireless remote • Battery charger included • Optional AC adapter • Battery life Approx 880 shots (CIPA standard) |
| Vertical grip | • Vertical Grip VG-C90AM • One or Two NP-FM500H batteries with auto switchover for power (additional battery is optional). |
| Dimensions | 156 x 117 x 82 mm |
| Weight (body) | 850 g |