NEX-5R and NEX-6 Camera Review - Advanced Mirrorless Cameras

Let's look at two more mirrorless cameras that have become a favorite of many. We are talking about compact cameras NEX-5R and NEX-6.

The NEX-5R and NEX-6 cameras have the same hardware. Both cameras have CMOS matrices measuring 23.5×15.6 mm (APS-C) and a resolution of 16.1 MP. Light sensitivity operates in the range ISO 100 – 25600. The minimum shutter speed is /4000 seconds, and the maximum is 30 seconds. The screen diagonal is 3 inches and the resolution is 921,600 pixels. The displays of both cameras have rotating mechanisms. The image size at maximum resolution is 4912 X 3264. One battery charge of the NEX-5R is enough for 330 shots, and the NEX-6 - 360 shots. The younger model has less weight compared to the older one. The NEX-5R carcass weighs 218 grams, and the NEX-6 weighs 287 grams.

An innovation in cameras is hybrid phase and contrast autofocus. The phase system performs fast analysis of the distance to the object, and the contrast system performs ultra-precise guidance. However, in speed-priority focusing mode, the camera does not use the contrast focusing system. Only five lenses support the new autofocus system: E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 OSS; EE 18–55 mm F3.5–5.6 OSS; 18–200 mm F3.5–6.3 OSS; E PZ 16–50 mm F3.5–5.6 OSS; E 24 mm F1.8 ZA Sonnar T*.

It is also worth noting the integration of a Wi-Fi module into both cameras. The main point of adding Internet connectivity is to access PlayMemories, which is the application base. Sony's vision is to give users the ability to personalize and customize their camera. Paid and free applications will be available that will allow you to control the shutter release from your smartphone or upload pictures to Facebook directly from the camera. Numerous applications will add additional graphic elements and many other effects to the camera's capabilities. Wi-Fi can also be used to transfer data to smartphones running iOS or Android OS.

The screens of both cameras have a rotating mechanism, but the difference is that the NEX-5R's screen is touch-sensitive, while the NEX-6's is a regular one. Some may consider the touch screen on the camera unnecessary, but selecting applications in PlayMemories and using some functions will be more convenient on the touch screen.

There are only four differences between the cameras:

The NEX-6 camera has a Tru-Finder electronic viewfinder with an XGA OLED matrix with a resolution of 2359 thousand dots with 100% frame coverage.
NEX-6 has a dial mode switch, which makes working with modes much easier.
The NEX-6 also has a hot shoe connector.
The NEX-5R lacks the built-in flash found in the NEX-6.

The viewfinder in the NEX-6 causes criticism, as it slightly spoils the appearance. The camera looks boxy and unfinished compared to the NEX-5R. However, the viewfinder is very convenient to use, so once you get used to this feature, the appearance of the camera fades into the background.

Both cameras have a high shooting speed of 10 frames per second. If you shoot with both cameras in identical conditions with the same settings, you can note that the NEX-6 images have more realistic colors and shades, while the NEX-5 produces cooler images. The matrices of the cameras are identical, so it can be assumed that the photographs are of different quality due to firmware features or differences in the calibration of pre-sale samples. A final judgment on the quality of photographs can only be made after the cameras are released for sale. The NEX-5R will be available for purchase in October 2012. Its starting price will be $650 for the carcass alone. The NEX-6 will be available for purchase in November. The price of the device will be about $850. This is the price for the camera without lens.

Sony NEX-5R and NEX-6 camera review

The features of Sony NEX family cameras can be described in a few phrases. First of all, it is high resolution, versatility, compatibility with a huge fleet of different lenses. All these advantages are combined with the very small size and weight of the cameras themselves and are complemented by high photo speeds and extensive video capabilities. It’s not for nothing that I call many models of the family “professional in my pocket” and actively use them in my work. Most recently, the new Sony NEX-5R and NEX-6 appeared with a resolution of 16.1 megapixels on an APS-C sensor. The first camera is a further development of the miniature camera series 5 (5N), the other seems to be an intermediate solution between the 5 series and the flagship station wagon NEX-7. Let's try to find out what's new, what differences, advantages and inconveniences the new models bring to the photographer using several lenses.

Among them will be the already well-known universal zoom Sony E18-55 OSS, a compact electronically controlled zoom Sony E PZ 16-50/F3.5-5.6 OSS and a megazoom Sony E 55-210/F4.5-6.3 OSS. All lenses are E-mount, designed specifically for the NEX system and are optically stabilized. By combining different cameras and different optics, we can get kits that have the same resolution, but provide benefits for different groups of amateur photographers. The new models feature several technological solutions. First of all, this is a new autofocus algorithm. The manufacturer suggested that it was possible to combine the method of precise, but not always instantaneous contrast focusing with the fast, but sometimes inaccurate method of phase detection. To the 25 contrast focusing zones, another 99 points were added in the central part of the frame. A quick search for an object occurs using the phase method, while fine-tuning the focus occurs using contrast. Overall, hybrid autofocus should be faster. We will check later in practice how much this improves accuracy and speed.

The next news was the ability to connect cameras to Wi-Fi networks, control the device using a smartphone, view photos on the screens of modern TVs, computers and smart phones via wireless networks, and download new software.
I’ll say right away: I very quickly connected to the Wi-Fi router, but have not yet been able to use the offered services, since many opportunities, unfortunately, are not yet available to buyers from Russia, unlike residents of America, Japan and other countries. I think that such bonuses at the time of the test are not very relevant for domestic consumers and cannot serve as a plus or minus when choosing a camera. The ergonomics and controls of the cameras are different. Sony NEX-5R today remains the smallest camera with great capabilities among its classmates. The use of many functions in this model has been significantly simplified by the addition of a control wheel, which, in combination with the touch screen and traditional button controls, allows you to quickly change all shooting parameters.
The function button and the video button have moved to more convenient places, and it is no longer possible to turn on the video accidentally (previously this caused a lot of complaints from users).

With the advent of the motorized Sony E PZ 16-50/РЗ.5-5.6 OSS lens, the dimensions of the system have become tiny, significantly smaller than many compacts and point-and-shoot cameras, but with image quality characteristic of a large SLR camera. Sony NEX-6 is slightly larger in size. As in the most advanced Sony NEX-7 model, there is a high-resolution OLED viewfinder on the left side, a built-in small flash in the center, and a new hot shoe that can accept new powerful flashes and other accessories (microphones, transmitters). The manufacturer promises to sell the camera complete with an adapter for the entire huge line of old external devices, or to supply this adapter to stores at a very low price (up to 1000 rubles). There are two control wheels, similar in operation to those of traditional large cameras, making control even more convenient. Basically, the camera retains the ability to connect with all components of the NEX and Alpha systems. The controversial news for me was the lack of a charger included with the camera. The battery is now charged via a USB cable, and the battery must be installed in the camera. Accordingly, it will no longer be possible to walk around the city with the device, knowing that somewhere in the charger the spare battery continues to be saturated with energy. You will have to buy a special charger, because on one charge you can take about 300 pictures.

TEST PHOTOGRAPHY
To check how correctly the automatic sensitivity setting algorithm works, I decided not to shoot with both cameras in advanced PASM modes with full control of the shooting parameters. I set the Auto ISO mode, switched to burst shooting up to 10 frames per second and went indoors to the traditional science festival of Moscow University. Colored spotlights mixed with daylight from windows did not pose a challenge to the white balance system. The color temperature of faces and details of clothing in the foreground were determined correctly, they were in harmony with the color sources of the background. I did not need to use the RAW format in order to later edit the result in a graphics editor. The hybrid focusing system quickly coped with the task; high-speed shooting in short bursts made it possible to highlight the climactic moment in a series of events occurring in the crowd.

The automatic sensitivity setting skillfully balanced between high and very high values (up to 3200 ISO). However, examining the photos on the computer was a bit disappointing. It turned out that with all the other excellent qualities of the image (color, noise, exposure accuracy), the focus point was sometimes more accurate on background objects, especially when using a wide angle on all lenses used. When these photos are published in small sizes (in magazines or on the Internet), the problem may not be noticed, but when viewed on a large monitor or high-definition TV, it will be visible.

To find out who is to blame - the camera or the photographer, I went to a rally of bikers and roller skaters, taking both cameras. It has all the right ingredients to test autofocus systems: speed, unpredictability and daylight. Reporter-grade cameras can do this task, but I wanted to check the information that the new kids can work “like adults.” When shooting at a wide angle, the cameras confidently focused on the background, sometimes ignoring the more important foreground. Therefore, I tried to work with a manual focus point. And the long-focus lens confidently found the important part of the plot in any case and confidently accompanied the moving object, using the additional capabilities of hybrid focusing. This applies to both models, since they have similar focusing algorithms. When composing using the electronic viewfinder, an interesting feature was noted: if there are straight diagonal lines in the frame (for example, paving slabs), in the OLED viewfinder they sometimes take on a sawtooth appearance, which makes it difficult to judge whether the focus is correct. But this, of course, is not visible in the final photograph.

The next experience was shooting the NEX-5R in almost complete darkness. Night, street, lantern, in the background are the ancient buildings of the Ryazan Kremlin. A traditional DSLR camera would not allow me to take a photo: due to the darkness, my eyes cannot distinguish fine details, and autofocus is useless. I mounted the camera on a tripod and focused manually. First, I took pictures in the more familiar aperture priority mode with exposure compensation, and then compared them with what the intelligent automatic “night shooting” mode produced. Interestingly, in the latter case the result was also excellent. Finally, we’ll check how accurately the new ability to focus and take a photo by touching the sensitive screen of the NEX-5R works, but we’ll complicate the task by using the HDR mode in conditions of a contrasting setting sun. The camera focused perfectly on the foreground, with the focus point lying outside the range of the phase detection sensors. But the automatic HDR mode was a little stronger than I personally like.

CONCLUSIONS
Two new cameras combine excellent image quality, low noise level at high sensitivity, and compactness. The high quality of images in JPG format allows you to resort to the RAW format only in exceptional cases. A continuous shooting speed of 10 frames per second will allow you not to miss an interesting moment. I wasn't able to see a clear benefit from the automatic hybrid autofocus, but it should be noted that focusing on both cameras is very fast and accurate. I found the Sony NEX-5R's combination of touchscreen and traditional controls to be more versatile and fun. The 180-degree tilting screen can be used not only when shooting a self-portrait, but also in other situations. Photographers who want compatibility with all their accessories (such as off-camera microphones and flashes) should consider the Sony NEX-6.

Review of Sony Alpha NEX-5 and two lenses

Today on Radozhiva there is a review of a non-DSLR camera. Sony Alpha NEX- 5 is a mirrorless camera of the MILC class (Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera) - a mirrorless digital camera with interchangeable lenses . A very interesting specimen with great potential and good capabilities .

View of Sony Alpha NEX-5 without lens

When you pick up the Sony Alpha NEX-5 camera, you get a very interesting impression, it seems like the lens is large and the zoom needs to be turned by hand, but on the other side there is no mirror viewfinder. After using DSLR cameras, you just want to put the camera to your face and see the image in the viewfinder. Personally, I've been caught by this trick many times. Of course, some will find it easier to view through the screen, but still, viewing through the screen makes the camera very similar to ordinary digital compacts.

Example photo on SEL-1855 and Sony Alpha NEX-5

Positive aspects of the Sony Alpha NEX-5 (as it turned out, quite a lot):

Very large matrix . Attention: this camera uses a matrix from cropped APS-C , so its size is really large and surpasses all digital compacts. Also, the size is larger than in cameras with a 43 matrix. It is thanks to the large matrix that this camera is interesting. With a large sensor you can achieve low noise and good control of depth of field. True, to cover such an area of the matrix you need to use no longer tiny lenses.
As many as 14.2 megapixels based on CMOS. More than enough for amateur use. This is more than in my Nikon D90, and more than in professional Nikon D3(s)
Video Full HD 1920×1080 , 1440×1080, 640×480. For lovers of photography and video, the camera gives the opportunity to shoot with enormous resolution in one small package. True, an important point: 1920x1080 can only be shot in AVCHD format , and 1440x1080, 640x480 in both AVCHD and MP4. The default format was MP4 and I saw available options only in 1440x1080, 640x480, which puzzled me for about 5 minutes while searching for 1920x1080.
Compactness . The camera is very small. Considering the huge sensor, this is a very big plus. True, even with an 18-55 lens it will be quite difficult to fit it into a jacket pocket. But with a 16mm prime lens you can throw it in your pocket or handbag. Personally, such a camera would suit me for a hike – small size and good functionality.
Rotating display . only rotates by almost 90 degrees. It would be better if it had more degrees of freedom when rotating.
Easy controls. Easy does not mean convenient. All control is done through the camera menu.
ISO from 200 to 12800 , and in camera JPEG even at 6400 a more or less normal picture is obtained. An ordinary digital compact cannot even dream of such working ISOs.
The camera can work with any optics that can be attached to it . To do this, you need to make the “allow photo without lens” setting in the menu. For lovers of manual optics, just a fairy tale. The camera supports exposure metering in any manual, semi-automatic PASM or full automatic mode. To put it simply, you can attach some small cheap high-aperture lens like Helios-44m-4 to the camera via an adapter and get simply wonderful photographs.
Monitor with 920,000 dots . Good contrast display.
The camera has a simply unique panoramic shooting mode . A panorama is made from several photographs. This results in a perfectly composed panoramic photograph.
When manually focusing, the 14x magnification mode is automatically activated , which allows you to make fine adjustments. This is also an irreplaceable and automatic thing when working with manual optics.
In the camera you will find all the necessary tips on the type of histogram, modes, parameters, etc. It’s true that sometimes there are no basic, familiar things. Many features turn on automatically, such as hand-shake reduction, macro and landscape modes.
Fast autofocus. Autofocus has a number of settings and generally provides normal operation speed. But always remember that autofocus speed depends not only on the camera, but also on the lens. The speed will be inferior to SLR cameras, since in the Sony Alpha NEX-5 it works on the principle of contrast; in SLR cameras, a whole additional system with phase focusing sensors is responsible for focusing.
Continuous speed of 7 frames per second. True, it works without measuring exposure and changing focus for each individual frame. But still, 7 frames per second in RAW is impressive. In normal high-speed mode, when focusing after each frame, the camera takes 2.3 frames per second.

Example photo on SEL-1855 and Sony Alpha NEX-5

Flaws:

Everything has to be managed through the menu . It takes more time. But that’s why it’s a compact, not a DSLR.
In automatic mode, a number of settings are not available.
No ISO 100 . For example, at the minimum ISO 200 for the Sony Alpha NEX-5 and when using a lens with aperture from 1.4 to 2.8, you may not fit into the shutter speed, which is 14000; I have the same problem on the Nikon D40.
Limited set of “native” lenses . Only special lenses are suitable for the camera. Minolta AF lenses must be used via an adapter.
Price. About 1000 USD The price is comparable to an advanced DSLR camera.
There are not a huge number of useful functions such as converting from RAW to JPEG
In automatic mode, the camera gives a slight overexposure of 13 or even the entire stop.

Example photo on SEL-1855 and Sony Alpha NEX-5

Interesting points:

The camera makes an interesting sound when the shutter is released . At first I thought that the sound was coming from the lens, but then I realized that it was the movement of the curtains that was heard. Yes, the camera does not have a simple electronic shutter, but a curtain-slot shutter with shutter speeds from 30 seconds to 14,000 . Moreover, the shutter fires with a very characteristic double click, which may make it seem like the camera is taking two pictures instead of one. The sound gives some kind of moral satisfaction, which is similar to the sound of the shutter of a SLR camera. And in the camera you can choose the aspect ratio of the image 16 to 9 and standard 3 to 2 . Actually photo 16 to 9 below.

Photo at SEL-16F28 16mm F/2.8 (frame size 16:9)

The camera has a background control mode . Quite an interesting thing for fans. For professionals, I’ll tell you a secret, this function simply closes and opens the aperture, thereby creating this magical background blur effect.

Panorama on Sony Alpha NEX-5 and SEL-16F28 16mm F/2.8

The noise level of the matrix – I was pleasantly surprised, as the camera showed excellent results at high ISOs. True, I can only judge by viewing on-camera JPEG FINE. My Lightroom refused to process Sony Alpha NEX-5 RAW files. Raw files weigh about 14 MB, and JPEG FINE from 2 to 10 MB.

Photo on SEL-16F28 16 mm F/2.8

Conclusion:

The Sony Alpha NEX-5 is a very unusual camera with a curtain shutter but without a mirror viewfinder. The camera has an excellent sensor with high ISO performance. Perfect as an excellent photo and video gadget with good quality. A find for 2010.

Review of SEL-16F28 16mm F/2.8

It's funny that this lens is included in the kit, because it is not much wider than 18mm and only a stop lighter than 18mm at 3.5. Rather, this is a marketing ploy to show people the possibilities of interchangeable optics . This is a wide-angle prime lens that gives an angle of view of 24mm at full frame. The lens does not have a stabilizer. The distortion is quite strong, the distortion is removed by the camera, the contrast is at the level. The sharpness was very disappointing, as for a prime lens, it is quite poor up to F8.0, although it is quite suitable for creating panoramas as the edges of the frame are quite sharp. Autofocus is optionally fast. Nothing special. The only serious advantage is its compactness and a fairly wide angle at 16 mm.

Examples of photos taken on SEL-16F28 16 mm F/2.8 (camera JPEG L, resized + watermark)

NEX-5R and NEX-6 Camera Review - Advanced Mirrorless Cameras

Sony was a little unlucky: the announcement of their new line of cameras came on September 12 - exactly the day when literally the whole world froze in anticipation of the iPhone 5. And, of course, the main attention of the overwhelming number of tech journalists was drawn to the new Apple product. In the meantime, the Sony cameras presented are definitely worthy of more than a superficial and fleeting mention in the news feed. I was lucky enough to be part of a small group of Russian journalists who, at the invitation of Sony, found themselves at the presentation of new products in the “land of ice” Iceland. In addition to the fact that we got the opportunity to see with our own eyes the presented cameras, about which there were many rumors and assumptions, we were able to test them in action. Now that the Apple hysteria has more or less subsided, it’s time to share with you my first impressions of the cameras. We will talk about three new products: the Sony Alpha SLT-A99 full-frame DSLR camera and the NEX-6 and NEX-5R mirrorless cameras. But, unfortunately, it was not possible to test the unique compact full-frame camera Sony RX1: the sample was completely “raw” and unsuitable for testing.

Sony Alpha SLT-A99 Full Frame Camera

When talking about high-price cameras, such as the Sony SLT-A99, you absolutely cannot limit yourself to such abstract concepts about image quality as natural and natural reproduction of colors and shades, sharpness and good contrast. These indicators are initially well balanced, as, in fact, it should be. More is expected from tools aimed at professional users. In this case, what Sony offers is more - a full-frame sensor, high shooting speed while maintaining autofocus separately for each frame, a brand new dual focusing system that has a beneficial effect on the clarity of moving objects, and special capabilities for shooting video in FullHD.

I am inclined to perceive two models at once as the predecessors of Sony’s new full-frame pride. The first of them is, of course, the A900 model. The update to this full frame classic DSLR has been almost 4 years in the making. When it finally happened, it turned out that they bypassed the traditional DSLR system and integrated a full-frame sensor into a camera based on translucent fixed mirror technology, that is, they continued the line of SLT cameras, introducing into the game the top-end and so far the only full-frame model in this category . Thus, the second predecessor of the A99 can rightfully be considered the A77, which is located one step lower in the SLT hierarchy. Instead of a 23.5 x 15.6 mm matrix (APS-C size) in the new A99 we see a full frame 35.8 x 23.9 mm matrix, which automatically positions the camera as a professional one. The resolution remained the same: approximately 24.3 effective megapixels. The light sensitivity range has expanded from ISO 100-16000 to ISO 50-25600. The shutter speed range of A77 and A99 is equivalent: 1/8000 - 30 and long (Bulb). Compared to the A77 screen, the resolution has increased from 921,600 dots to 1,228,800 dots for the A99 model. Interestingly, the diagonal size remained unchanged: 3 inches. In terms of battery life using the viewfinder, the younger A77 model is slightly superior to the older one: while the A77 can take about 470 shots on a single battery charge, the A99 can take only 410. Also, the SLT-A77 body is 50 grams lighter than the full-frame A99: 653 grams against 733.

The closest competitors of the full-frame new Sony SLT-A99 can reasonably be attributed to their DSLR counterparts Canon 6D and Nikon D600. If you compare their performance and capabilities a little, this is the picture that emerges:

With identical matrix sizes, the Canon 6D loses in terms of resolution: 24.3 megapixels for Sony and Nikon models versus 20.2 megapixels for Canon.

Nikon D600 is approximately equal to Sony in terms of maximum image resolution: 6016x4016 versus 6000 x 4000 for Sony. The Canon 6D, in turn, is inferior to both of them: the maximum image resolution is 5472x3648.

In terms of the photosensitivity range, the picture is as follows: maximum sensitivity Nikon – 6,400 ISO (expansion up to 25,600), Canon – 25,600 ISO (expansion right up to 102,400 ISO), Sony – 6,400 ISO (including expansion, 25,600 ISO).

If we look at the focusing system, the Nikon D600 can offer a 39-point autofocus system (9 of which are cross-type) versus the 11-point AF system of the Canon 6D, which has only one cross-type sensor. At the same time, the Sony SLT A99 boasts a brand new dual focusing system, which simultaneously uses 19 points with 11 cross-shaped sensors and 102 additional points in the focal plane.

In terms of frames per second, the Sony A99 is the fastest: 6 fps versus 5.5 for the Nikon D600 and 4.5 for the Canon 6D

The viewfinders of the Sony SLT A99, like those of the Nikon D600, have 100% frame coverage, but the Canon 6D has 97%.

Sony has a higher shutter speed range: 30-1/8000 and long shutter speed versus 30-1/4000 for competitors

In terms of battery life on a single battery charge, the Sony SLT A-99, sadly, lags behind: while the Canon 6D produces about 950 frames when using an optical viewfinder, and the Nikon D800 about 900 frames, the Sony camera shows the result is two times smaller - something like 410 shots. The main culprit for this low performance is the extremely power-hungry electronic viewfinder. So you certainly can’t do without an additional battery pack, or even two, when using the Sony SLT-A99.

The diagonal of the LCD screen of Canon and Nikon is 0.2 inches larger than that of the Sony device (3 inches versus 3.2), but the SLT-A99 has a higher screen resolution: 1,228,800 pixels versus 1,040,000 pixels of the Canon 6D and 921,000 points for Nikon D600.

In addition, the Canon 6D only has one SD card slot, unlike Nikon and Sony (two each).

The set of interface connectors is almost identical, with the exception of the XLR adapter connector available on the Sonу, so you can connect a high-quality professional external microphone. Nikon D600 also has a connector for connecting an external microphone, but not XLR, of course. The Canon 6D is completely devoid of this feature.

All three devices in question are capable of shooting videos in Full HD resolution.

The full-frame Sony SLT-A99 weighs less than its rivals - only 733 grams, while the Canon 6D body weighs 770 grams, and the Nikon D600 760 grams.

Only the Nikon D600 has a built-in flash.

The Canon 6D price for the body alone will be $2100, the Nikon D600 will be $2100, and the Sony SLT A99 will cost more – $2800 without optics.

The advantages that we managed to catch from a superficial acquaintance and short use of the SLT-A99: wide dynamic range, clear and fast focusing, natural color rendition, decent performance at ISO 3200-6400, continuous shooting at 6 fps. As usual, I was pleased with the build quality of Sony. The body is made of magnesium alloy, which makes the camera the lightest of its full-frame DSLR counterparts currently on the market. The need for dust/moisture protection of the camera was also taken into account, however, the protection is not as perfect as, for example, in Nikon D4. There are now 2 slots for memory cards. However, only SD cards or a proprietary Memory Stick are supported, without the possibility of using Compact Flash. The rotating design also seemed convenient, allowing the display to be positioned in a variety of ways.

Another important innovation of the SLT-A99 is the dual autofocus system. It does not use a traditional hybrid sensor to combine phase detection and contrast detection autofocus. Here, a 19-point autofocus system with 11 cross-shaped sensors works in tandem with a new sensor, which has 102 additional autofocus points in the focal plane. This is the first time this combination has been used and is aimed primarily at maintaining focus on moving objects, which will definitely appeal to wildlife lovers and sports photographers. True, not all Sony Alpha lenses are yet fully compatible with this system. Currently there are only six of these: 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA, 70-400mm f/4-5.6 G, 50mm f/1.4, 28-75mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4 and 300mm f/2.8. That is, the existing optics, of course, will work with the SLT-A99, but it will not be possible to fully use the AF-D autofocus mode.

Another interesting feature of the new camera is the AF Range button: it limits the focusing range to user-defined distances between the closest and furthest point. For example, when shooting through glass (from a car or at a hockey tournament), the camera from time to time traditionally tries to focus on the nearest point, which in this case will be the glass, which is completely inappropriate. So, pressing the AF Range button can eliminate this problem. The distance to the object is specified, and anything closer (or further) is ignored. Undoubtedly a very useful feature.

One week with Sony NEX-5R

The first day. Getting to know your camera

Surprisingly, but true: Sony NEX cameras have been around for just over two years. And during this time, the model range has already been updated twice. Progress does not stand still, and every year new technologies and design solutions make it possible to make cameras more convenient, faster, more functional...

Sony NEX-5R and compatible lenses

Today our editors received the Sony NEX-5R camera. But she is prepared for more than just a test in the usual format. I will try to live with her for a little more than a week, shooting every day in different conditions, setting new creative challenges for her and describing my impressions of the camera here in the form of new chapters of the article. And you will be able to follow this unusual testing almost “live” and ask questions, to which I will try to give comprehensive answers. Stay tuned!

I will devote the first day of our unusual testing entirely to getting to know the Sony NEX-5R. This is how it arrived at the editorial office: a small, cute cardboard box. Shall we take a look inside?

On top there is a warranty card, a thick book - the operating instructions - and a disk with software. And here is the camera, neatly wrapped in white non-woven material. The included SEL-1855 lens is already installed: all you have to do is insert the battery, memory card, and... But let's not rush, let's talk about everything in order.

Also in the box you will find: a lens hood, a shoulder strap, a USB cable and a tiny charger. The fact is that now the battery is charged directly in the camera using a USB cable. And the charger is nothing more than a USB power source. You can even successfully use your computer instead. Comfortable!

While the battery is charging, you just can’t wait to twirl the new product in your hands. The first thing that strikes you is the thickness of the case. Compared to massive DSLRs, the NEX-5R looks like a miniature point-and-shoot camera. But that's not true! Behind the deceptive appearance lies serious electronic content.

Sony NEX-5R in hand

The fact is that the Sony NEX-5R uses a large APS-C format matrix. Exactly the same matrices are found in most modern SLR cameras. And this matrix is many times larger than those installed in so-called “soap boxes”. It is the size of the matrix that determines the image quality when shooting in difficult conditions. The second advantage of a large matrix is the ability to greatly blur the background, for example, when shooting portraits.

If you look at the characteristics of the matrix, they accurately repeat the specifications of the previous model - NEX-5N: the same 16.1 megapixels, the same CMOS technology, the same size 23.4x15.6 mm. But it’s not for nothing that I mentioned developing technologies at the very beginning. The Sony NEX-5R sensor is equipped with phase detection autofocus sensors, which allow you to speed up the process of focusing, and when shooting moving objects, keep the subject in focus more stably. We will still have the opportunity to test this technology in practice.

But let's continue to study the corpus. Those familiar with previous models of the fifth series of NEX cameras probably noticed that the NEX-5R now has two additional controls: a programmable Fn button on the top panel and a large control dial next to it. Thus, with a seemingly modest number of buttons, the camera is able to provide high control efficiency. Judge for yourself: not even every DSLR has two control dials (the second is combined with a navigation pad), two programmable buttons (the bottom button on the rear panel can also be reprogrammed), and calling basic functions using the navigation pad in shooting mode.

Control dial and Fn button

Rear control disk

Let's add the possibility of touch control here and get complete efficiency in work! By the way, after inserting a charged battery into the camera, I first checked the function that interested me most: you can select the focus point by simply touching the screen! However, if you don’t like touch control as such, you can disable it altogether: the camera interface allows you to do without it.

Since we're talking about the display, it's time to talk about a new feature in its design. Until recently, in Sony NEX cameras the screen could only be tilted down or raised up by 90 degrees. In the Sony NEX-5R, the display rotates up 180 degrees. For what? It's simple: for taking self-portraits! At the same time, the image on it is automatically flipped so that your loved one can be better seen. However, we will also pay attention to shooting self-portraits in our unusual test.

Have you noticed that the camera does not have a built-in flash? But how to shoot in the dark, you ask? Firstly, very soon I will share with you some secrets of night photography without flash, because I don’t really like its characteristic hard light. And secondly, the NEX-5R still has a flash. It is removable and comes complete with the camera. The flash is quickly attached using a single screw connection on the top panel. If you want, put it, if you want, don’t. In the second case, you can simply put it away for the time being in a compact plastic case, which fits conveniently on the camera strap.

Sony NEX-5R without flash

Sony NEX-5R with flash

The story about the first acquaintance with the Sony NEX-5R would be incomplete without mentioning the main “feature” of 2012 implemented in it - the Wi-Fi function. Why is she in the camera? This question also came to me first. Using Wi-Fi, you can install special applications in the camera. One application - one additional function. And mind you, without changing the firmware, which is so scary for beginners. Well, for example, you can install an application to wirelessly control your camera from your mobile phone or tablet. I will talk about this and more in more detail in one of the next parts of our test. We will devote a whole day of communication with the camera to Wi-Fi functions and working with them. Stay tuned! In the meantime, I take a tripod and go for night photography, which I’ll tell you about tomorrow...

Review: Digital camera Sony Nex-5R - High-quality mirrorless camera with DSLR capabilities

I've been using this camera for ten months. I bought it to replace my Nikon D5100 SLR camera. Before purchasing, I carefully studied reviews on mirrorless cameras. Ideally, I wanted to buy something lighter in weight than a DSLR, but close in quality. In the end, my choice fell on the Sony NEX-5RK camera (with an 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens).

The camera comes with the following accessories:
documentation (instructions, CD, warranty),

external flash (screwed on top)

flash case,

mount cap, Sony 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 E OSS lens (SEL-1855)

protective cover for the lens.

My camera is NEX-5R white. In my opinion, a white case looks better than a black or silver one.

This is what the flash locking mechanism looks like in the housing:

This is what the battery and memory card compartment looks like:

Below, in order, are the advantages of this model:

1. The main advantage of this mirrorless camera is its weight compared to DSLRs. Sony NEX-5R is the best option for a woman's hand. It weighs 218 grams, together with the 18-55 mm kit lens the weight is 412 grams. The same cannot be said about compactness - with the 18-55 mm lens extended, it has approximately the same dimensions as a DSLR. I carry my Sony in my Nikon D5100 bag. If Nikon fit right there, then with Sony there is still room for various little things (napkins, lipstick, comb, etc.).

2. Excellent photo quality. The number of megapixels of the matrix is 16.7 million, effective 16.1 million. But, as you know, the quality of photographs is affected not by the number of megapixels, but by the physical size of the matrix. The Sony NEX-5R has the same matrix size as that of SLR cameras (23.5 x 15.6 mm), which results in high-quality photos with a low noise level. Even at high ISOs (up to 3200), the pictures are decent, and noise becomes noticeable only when you enlarge the image on a computer. If we compare the photo quality of the kit 18-55 mm lenses, then I like the photos from the Sony NEX-5R better than the Nikon D5100. The color rendition and depth of field of Sony's photos with the whale are much better - the photos are clear and saturated, the noise level is quite low. Lately, I’ve been reluctant to manually adjust the settings for M (manual) mode, so I take pictures in “super auto mode,” and I’m quite happy with the quality. On Nikon, I often had to modify photos in the editor: add sharpness and/or make the photo more saturated. With Sony, I forgot what an editor is, except that sometimes a littered horizon has to be corrected :)

3. High speed of Live View mode. The photography process is very comfortable; you don’t need to look through the viewfinder every time, as was the case with Nikon.

4. Speed of work in general. A very fast device in all modes, it quickly turns on and gets ready to shoot. There is a useful 10 frames per second option.

5.3-inch vari-angle display. Rotates 180 degrees.

It is convenient to take self-portraits with its help.

However, there is a small drawback - when the flash is on, the display cannot be raised completely, as it interferes with it:

6. Availability of phase detection autofocus. Autofocus with phase detection (99 points) and contrast (25 points). This is a new option that was not present in the predecessor Sony NEX-5N. Phase detection autofocus follows a moving subject and is much faster than the NEX-5N.

7. Build quality and stylish appearance. All details are carefully adjusted, creating the feeling of a monolithic body. There are no backlashes or squeaks. The camera body is made of metal, magnesium alloy, and the grip is very comfortable. There is a rubber seal on the top right of the case that helps prevent your fingers from slipping.

8. Ease of management. The presence of a second wheel on top (Sony NEX-5N has only one wheel). On one wheel you can adjust the shutter speed, on the other - the aperture, which is very convenient in M mode. You can also program the most common functions to the Fn and B buttons.

9. Ability to transfer pictures to your phone via Wi-Fi. After setting it up, my photos are automatically transferred from my camera to my phone. You can also set up transferring pictures via Wi-Fi to your computer.

10. Ability to focus on a selected point using the touch screen.

11. The included flash is quite good, the light from it does not dazzle. I try to take photos without flash and use it in extreme cases, for example when the light is behind me and my face is in shadow. On a Nikon with a built-in flash, the images turned out flat and the people in them looked like they were painted. The NEX 5R produces more realistic flash images.

12. Many automatic modes (landscape, portrait, macro, sports, handheld twilight, panoramic view, sunset, night scene) and effects (black and white photo, old camera, color highlight, miniature effect, soft skin effect, etc. .).

Let's move on to the disadvantages of the model:

1. The resistive touch screen is not very responsive. The screen responds to touches with a slight delay and does not work as smoothly as, for example, smartphone screens with multi-touch. I rarely use the screen and usually set everything up using buttons, so this is a minor drawback for me.

2. Long battery charging time. A full charge takes 4 hours. This is not the best result; my Nikon was fully charged in 2 hours.

3. No viewfinder. Personally, I don’t need this function, since I shoot video extremely rarely.

4. Distortion in some pictures. I have photographs where distortion is visible at the edges, which immediately spoils the entire frame.

5. The 18-55 kit lens is a little dark, I would like more light in the photo.

6. The menu sometimes slows down and is not the most convenient to use, although it is more thoughtful compared to the Nikon D5100.

7. With an 18-55 kit lens, the compactness of this device is reduced to zero.

8. The absence of a rubber pad on the body protrusion, which can cause your hand to slip.

9. Bokeh with the 18-55 kit lens is pretty mediocre. To get high-quality bokeh you need a different lens.

Despite its shortcomings, I think this mirrorless camera is one of the best in its class.

In the future, I plan to purchase a high-aperture Sony 50mm f/1.8 OSS (SEL-50F18) lens and a pancake lens to add compactness to the kit.

If you buy additional good lenses for the NEX-5R, this will hit your budget hard, since some copies will be more expensive than the camera. For this reason, for advanced amateur photographers who intend to regularly change lenses, I would advise choosing a camera among DSLRs.

In general, this camera is more suitable for amateur photography and is perfectly configured to work in automatic modes. It is suitable for both beginners and lazy photographers who do not want or do not know how to adjust shooting parameters manually, as well as for professionals who like to try different settings and change lenses. In terms of functionality and photo quality, the Sony NEX-5R can be compared with mid-level DSLR cameras (Canon 550-600-650D, Nikon D5000-5100-5200), and it will leave entry-level DSLRs far behind.

And finally, a few photos from my NEX-5R:

ISO 3200, f/5.6, 1/80

I am adding to the review: I removed the comment about the weak battery from the shortcomings. Over time, the battery began to last much longer. My camera gets about 700 shots per charge, about half of which were taken with flash. For such a small camera the result is very good.

Sony NEX-5R - first look

Sony has updated its popular line of system cameras. At the IFA exhibition in Berlin at the end of August, she presented a new “mirrorless” camera with interchangeable lenses - NEX-5R. This is Sony's seventh system camera and it features some interesting innovations. The lightweight and compact Sony NEX-5R camera has a 16.1 megapixel sensor, a tilting touchscreen LCD display, hybrid autofocus and built-in Wi-Fi. This model will be available in Russia in three body colors (black, white and silver) in mid-October. You will learn about the key features and advantages of the new Sony mirrorless camera in this short review.

NEX Mirrorless Cameras

Although not all photographic equipment manufacturers have yet released system camera models, mirrorless cameras have already won their own market segment and, most likely, have a foothold in it for many years. The system camera is close in design to a mirror one, but at the same time does not have a direct mirror unit. Instead of a mirror block, the light immediately hits the sensitive matrix of the camera. The advantage of this solution is that mirrorless cameras have reduced dimensions compared to DSLR cameras, but they can also be attached to a variety of interchangeable optics. At the same time, the matrices that are used in such cameras, as a rule, exceed in their physical dimensions the matrices of compact devices.

The absence of a mirror unit also has a positive effect on shooting speed. In this parameter, mirrorless cameras are also superior to compact cameras. Thus, system devices do not belong to either the class of compact cameras or the class of SLR cameras. They combine the advantages of point-and-shoot cameras and large SLR cameras.

The companies that are most actively involved in the competition in this market segment are Panasonic, Olympus, Samsung and Sony. However, Panasonic and Olympus mirrorless cameras are based on the MicroFourThirds format, which involves the use of a matrix of reduced dimensions compared to DSLR cameras. Sony and Samsung took a completely different path. They equipped their models with APS-C format matrices, which are comparable in physical size to DSLR matrices.

Naturally, a larger sensor provides greater advantages to the user of a system camera. In particular, high image quality and less digital noise. That's why Sony's NEX line of system cameras immediately attracted attention. After all, Sony was able to offer a more compact mirrorless camera with a larger physical sensor size and at the same time a lower price compared to cameras based on the MicroFourThirds system.

The company positions its models from the NEX line of system devices as a convenient replacement for large SLR cameras when traveling. Indeed, thanks to its modest dimensions, the NEX camera can be easily placed in a pocket, and the large matrix provides high image quality, quite comparable to that which can be obtained through some models of SLR cameras.

Features of Sony NEX-5R

A “mirrorless” camera should not be too big - all leading manufacturing companies have long been guided by this rule. The new model in Sony's line of system cameras, the NEX-5R, also boasts very compact body dimensions. With dimensions of 111 x 59 x 39 mm with battery, the camera weighs only 276 g. The top and front panels of the body are made of metal, giving the impression that the camera is entirely metal. But in fact, with the exception of the front and top walls, everything else is made of fairly durable plastic. Taking a look at the characteristics and functionality of the NEX-5R mirrorless camera, we can highlight the following main features:

— Large APS-C matrix

As already noted, all cameras from the NEX line are equipped with a matrix with physical dimensions characteristic of digital SLR cameras (APS-C - 23.4 x 15.6 mm). In this regard, the NEX-5R is no exception. This matrix captures more light and at the same time has less digital noise. The NEX-5R camera sensor has an effective resolution of 16.1 megapixels. The maximum image size is 4912 x 3264 pixels.

Thanks to the combination of a large matrix and the wide range of interchangeable optics, high quality photographs are ensured. The capabilities of the matrix are complemented by a powerful Bionz image processor. Together they guarantee a working sensitivity range of ISO 100 – 25600, which allows the Sony NEX-5R to take bright photos in low-light conditions.

Perhaps the key feature of the NEX-5R is the introduction of hybrid autofocus for optimal and accurate focusing in any conditions. It should be noted that, despite all the advantages of NEX system cameras, the focusing system has always remained their weak point. Due to the design features of mirrorless cameras and technical limitations, Sony used contrast autofocus in them, the operation of which raised questions.

But the NEX-5R camera was the first among all Sony mirrorless cameras to receive a completely new autofocus system, which the manufacturer itself called FastHybrid AF. The point of this system is to combine both types of automatic guidance: phase and autofocus, based on detecting the contrast of the object. The camera first uses phase detection autofocus with 99 focus points located on the sensor to determine the distance to the subject. And then contrast autofocus is used to provide more accurate and accurate autofocus. The hybrid autofocus system implemented in this model is a priority development area for Sony. This means that a similar system will soon appear in other, more expensive cameras of the company.

When high-speed continuous shooting is required, the NEX-5R camera can automatically switch to phase detection autofocus mode, which makes it possible to shoot dynamic scenes and fast-moving objects at speeds of up to 10 fps. Another interesting detail is the ability to use the LCD touch screen to perform focusing. All you have to do is touch the LCD touch screen where you want to focus, and the camera will automatically lock the focus and then take the photo.

By the way, the NEX-5R camera has a convenient, three-inch touchscreen LCD display. Moreover, the LCD screen can be tilted 180 degrees up and 50 degrees down to get the desired shooting angle or take a self-portrait. When shooting landscapes and architecture, you can display a grid on the display, which helps maintain the horizon line.

— Built-in Wi-Fi module

Another significant innovation in the Sony NEX-5R camera is the built-in Wi-Fi module, through which you can transfer photos and videos to a smartphone or tablet running the Sony Play Memories Mobile App. In addition, wireless communication allows you to control the camera remotely using a smartphone. The Play Memories Camera Apps service provides users of interchangeable lens system cameras with a set of applications that allow them to install new functions in the camera depending on their personal requirements. This means you can personalize your NEX-5R with a variety of paid and free apps. Apps already available include Picture Effect+, Bracket Pro, Multi Frame NR, Smart Remote Control and Direct Upload. It is expected that new applications will be released for owners of system cameras with interchangeable lenses in the near future.

In addition, the controls in the Sony NEX-5R model were improved - the camera received an additional quick control in the form of a stylish wheel on the top of the body. With it you can get the fastest access to the main shooting modes or camera settings. Naturally, the camera also supports video shooting. Moreover, thanks to the large matrix, it is possible to shoot videos in Full HD format of professional quality. With the Sony NEX-5R, you can record video in resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 pixels at 60 fps with stereo sound.

I need to say a few words about the interchangeable optics for the Sony NEX-5R. The device is designed for Sony E-mount lenses. Until recently, the disadvantage of the NEX line compared to MicroFourThirds-based system cameras was mainly that Sony did not provide users with a wide choice of optics. However, Sony was still able to expand the line of “native” optics for NEX cameras in a relatively short time, covering the maximum range of focal lengths. But, due to the fact that the NEX-5R camera received hybrid autofocus, not the entire range of interchangeable lenses can be used. In particular, for now only five lenses can be used with the Sony NEX-5R: E 18–55 mm f3.5-5.6 OSS, E 55–210 mm f4-6.3 OSS, E 18–200 mm f3, 5-6.3 OSS, E 24mm f1.8 ZASonnarT and E PZ 16–50mm f3.5-5.6 OSS. It is planned that the range of lenses supporting the fast hybrid autofocus function will gradually expand.

So, the Sony NEX-5R camera can be recommended to those users who have already “grew up” from digital compact cameras, but at the same time do not want to get involved with bulky and inconvenient SLR cameras. The NEX-5R is an everyday camera that's easy to learn, easy to carry, and still delivers high-quality images thanks to its large sensor and hybrid autofocus. The Sony NEX-5R is ideal for beginner photography enthusiasts, but it can also act as a second, additional device for professionals when traveling lightly.

Material provided by the electronics supermarket ELECTROZONE.