By Grant Shepherd

SYDNEY: Sony Australia has just announced a new collection of Alpha DSLR cameras that will be hitting stores very soon. The range includes the flagship a850, as well as the a550 and a500.

The a850 is aimed at serious photo enthusiasts and offers a step up to the possibilities of full-frame imaging. The new model is built for pro-style handling and performance, and is 24.6 megapixels.

According to Sony, the a850 is compatible with the entire Alpha family of lenses including Carl Zeiss, plus five high performance G Lens models.

“Providing a follow-up to our flagship model released last year, the new a850 brings the benefits of a full-frame digital SLR camera to a broader group of consumer,” said Maurice Satya, product manager for Alpha DSLR at Sony Australia.

“Feature packed with 24.6 megapixels, Exmor CMOS sensor and dual BIONZ processors, the a850 delivers true-to-life reproduction with breathtaking resolution.”

The a850 also features a 9-point AF system supplemented by 10 focus assist points, F2.8 sensor, 3.0-inch Fine LCD for high resolution, Intelligent Preview function, Quick Navi mode and a SteadyShot INSIDE system.

The a850 will be available by the end of September and will have a RRP of $3,499.

The other two models in the new range are the a550 and a500. Both models are aimed at the consumer who wants to take their skills to the next level.

“The new a550 and a500 Digital SLR cameras are designed to encourage consumers to take their photography skills to the next level,” said Satya.

“With brilliant high resolution detail, enhanced Live View features, high speed continuous shooting and a new Auto HDR function, the new Alpha range makes beautiful photos effortless to capture.”

The a550 (14.2 megapixels) and the a500 (12.3 megapixels) both feature an Exmor CMOS sensor that ensures low-noise images, packed with fine detail and vibrant colours.

According to Sony, both models share powerful on-chip noise reduction techniques with the full-frame a900 model, this sensor, combined with the high-speed BIONZ engine, delivers premium images and fast response times.

In addition to this, the D-Range Optimiser featured in previous DSLR models has been enhanced for even better results when shooting backlit portraits, or other tricky high-contrast scenes.

Both models feature a 3-inch LCD screen, where the a500 model offers a 180 degree tilt, making it easier to review shots.

In a first for its DSLR models, Quick AF Live View now features Face Detection technology, and Smile Shutter features will also be supported.

Both models are yet to be priced and will be available in October.

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