Sony’s New Digital SLR Cameras Promise Less Lag

Sony has taken the wraps off its latest clutch of digital SLR (DSLR) cameras which promise to take the lag out of composing shots on the LCD display.

The new Alpha A300 (pictured) and A350 cameras are 10.2MP and 14.2 MP models, respectively, and both feature Sony’s new Quick AF Live View technology that lets users frame photos on the LCD without sacrificing the auto focus speed. According to Sony, this is typical of many rival cameras and, to be fair, earlier Sony DSLRs too.

Quick AF Live View uses two sensors and can continuously focus-track the subject and provide live view during burst shooting. Sony says Live View, coupled with the adjustable 2.7in LCD display, means users can maintain eye contact with their subjects – often over-excited children – without sacrificing the quality of the shot.

“Mainstream users stepping up to DSLRs are looking for a similar experience to their point and shoot cameras, but without compromise in speed or performance” said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. “Quick AF Live View gives these new models a familiar shooting style without compromising speed – ideal for the growing market of first-time SLR users.”

The DSLR-A300 and 350 can shoot about 3 and 2.5 continuous frames per second, respectively, when using the optical viewfinder. The Lithium-ion battery is good for up to 730 shots per full charge when using the optical viewfinder and around 410 shots when using the LCD view finder. There’s also an anti-dust system to keep the CCD image sensor clean.

The DSLR-A300 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens will ship in April for £400 (US pricing). The DSLR-A350 camera body is due next month for around £400 while the A350 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 3.9x zoom lens will cost around £450.

Again US pricing here so add what you like for trans-Atlantic travel, tax, and the general gadget price gouging of UK consumers.-Martin Lynch