Sony simplifies DSLR snapping

Sony has launched three “easy-to-use” Alpha digital SLRs, including what it claimed is the world’s lightest DSLR with an integrated Advanced Photo System Type C image sensor and image stabilisation.

Sony's a380: the trio's 14.2Mp flagship model

Leading the threesome is the a380, which sports a 14.2Mp sensor and a 2.7in tilting LCD. Sony’s next model down, the a330, has the same size tilting LCD, but a lesser, 10.2Mp sensor.

Both models weigh in at roughly 490g, but the 450g a230’s the lightest of the trio. However, you’ll have to settle for a 2.7in screen that doesn’t tilt and a 10.2Mp image sensor.

Despite featuring said APS-C image sensor – a format equivalent to APS size negatives – the a230’s still considerably heavier than, say, the 380g 10Mp Olympus E-420 DSLR. Light in their class, the Sony cameras may be, but their still not the lightest DLSRs out there.

The a330 and a380 (pictured) have tilting screens

In an attempt to simplify DSLR use for newcomers, Sony’s revised the control layout on all three models so they feature fewer buttons than existing Alpha snappers.

Sony’s also added a supposedly “friendly new interface” and equipped the trio with on-screen help guides that’ll steer you through the image settings and show you what your final picture will look like before you take it.

A graphical guide has also been added to help you more easily understand the relationship between shutter speed and aperture.

The a230's the lightest of the Alpha trio

All three models support a maximum ISO sensitivity of 3200 and have nine focus points. However, the a230’s the only model which doesn’t enable Quick Auto Focus Live View mode. You’ll even get six scene selection modes and five exposure settings on all three cameras.

Both SD and Sony’s own Memory Stick Pro Duo memory cards can be slotted in – although none of the trio come with one. An HDMI port features on each model.

Launch dates and prices have yet to be announced. ®