Sony Digital Camera 4 149 235 11 1 User Manual

Display

Indication

Focus (80)

Memory card (22)

1/125

F3.5

Shutter speed (65)

Aperture (63)

EV scale (68, 11 1)

100

Remaining number of

recordable images (29)

100% Remaining battery (18)

Camera shake warning

(48)

SteadyShot scale (48)

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Display

Indication

Drive mode (108)

•

is only for the

DSLR-A550.

Flash mode (88)/Red-eye

reduction (90)

Focus mode (82)

AF area (83)

Face Detection (52)

Smile Shutter (113)

Smile Detection

Sensitivity indicator

(113)

Display

Indication

ISO sensitivity (103)

Metering (97)

+2.0

AWB

Flash compensation (95)

White balance (Auto,

Preset, Custom, Color

temperature, Color filter)

7500K G9 (104)

D-Range Optimizer (98)/

Auto HDR (99)

Creative Style (101)

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Selecting a function/setting

You can select a function for shooting or playback with the one of buttons,

such as the Fn (Function) button, or the MENU button.

When you start an operation, an operation

guide of controller functions will be

displayed at the bottom of the screen.

: Press v/V/b/B on the controller to

move the cursor.

z: Press the center button to execute the

selection.

In this Instruction Manual, the process of selecting a function with the

controller from the list displayed on the screen is described as follows (we

explain the process with the default icons.):

Example: Fn button t AWB (White balance) t Select the

desired setting

The operation guide list

The operation guide also indicates operations other than the controller

operation. The indications of icons are as follows.

MENU button

Returns with MENU button

Fn button

(Delete) button

(Zoom in) button

(Zoom out) button

(Playback) button

Control dial

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Selecting a function with the Fn (Function) button

This button is used for setting up or executing functions used frequently in

shooting.

1 Press the Fn button.

2 Select the desired item with v/V/

b/B on the controller, then press

the center z to execute.

The setup screen appears.

3 Following the operation guide,

select and execute the desired

function.

• For details on how to set up each item,

see the corresponding page.

Operation guide

To set up the camera directly from the recording information screen

Turn the control dial without pressing the

center z in step 2. You can set up the

camera directly from the recording

information screen.

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The functions selected by the Fn (Function) button

Drive mode (108)

Flash mode (88)

Autofocus mode (82)

AF area (83)

Face Detection (52)

Smile Shutter (113)

ISO sensitivity (103)

Metering mode (97)

Flash compens. (95)

White balance (104)

DRO/Auto HDR (98)

Creative Style (101)

The functions selected by the MENU button

You can set up the basic settings for the camera as a whole or execute

functions such as shooting, playback, or other operations.

Recording menu

Image size (128)

Aspect ratio (128)

Quality (129)

Long exp.NR (132)

High ISO NR (132)

Flash control (96)

AF illuminator (90)

SteadyShot (48)

Color Space (102)

Custom menu

Eye-Start AF (71)

AEL button (92)

Red eye reduc. (90)

Auto review (135)

Auto off w/ VF (136)

Grid Line (136)

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Playback menu

Delete (123)

Format (131)

Slide show (118)

Protect (122)

Specify Printing (152)

PlaybackDisplay (115)

Setup menu

LCD brightness (135)

Date/Time setup (25)

Power Save (LV) (134)

Power Save (OVF) (134)

CTRL FOR HDMI (127)

Language (134)

File number (130)

Folder name (130)

Select folder (131)

New folder (131)

USB connection (141, 15 4)

Audio signals (134)

Help Guide disp. (134)

Cleaning mode (33)

Pixel mapping (163)

Version (137)

Reset default (138)

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Shooting images

Shooting an image without camera shake

“Camera shake” refers to unwanted movement of the camera that occurs

after the shutter button has been pressed, resulting in a blurred image.

To reduce camera shake, follow the instructions below.

Correct posture

Stabilize your upper body and take a position that keeps the

camera from moving.

In Live View mode

In viewfinder mode

Point 1

One hand holds the grip of the camera, and the other hand supports the lens.

Point ²

Take a secure stance with your feet shoulder-width apart.

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Point 3

Lightly tuck your elbows against your body.

When shooting in a kneeling position, steady your upper body by placing

your elbow on your knee.

Camera shake warning indicator

Due to potential camera shake, the

(Camera shake warning) indicator

flashes. In this case, use a tripod or the

flash.

(Camera shake warning) indicator

Note

• The

(Camera shake warning) indicator is displayed only in the modes that

automatically set the shutter speed. This indicator is not displayed in M/S modes.

Using the SteadyShot function

The SteadyShot function is set to [On] in the default setting.

The SteadyShot scale indicator

The

(SteadyShot scale) indicator

shows the camera shake status. Wait until

the scale becomes low, then start

shooting.

(SteadyShot scale) indicator

To deactivate the SteadyShot function

MENU button t

1 t [SteadyShot] t [Off]

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Note

• The SteadyShot function may not work optimally when the power has just been

turned on or when the shutter button has been pressed all the way down without

stopping halfway.

Using a tripod

In the following cases, we recommend that you mount the camera on a

tripod.

• Shooting without a flash under dark conditions.

• Shooting with slow shutter speeds, which are typically used in night-time

shooting.

• Shooting a close subject, such as in macro shooting.

• Shooting with a telescopic lens.

Note

• When using a tripod, deactivate the SteadyShot function because there is a potential

for malfunction of the SteadyShot function.

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/ Shooting with the automatic

setting

The “AUTO” mode allows you to easily shoot any subject under any

conditions because the camera makes appropriate judgments on the

situation to adjust the settings.

Select

when shooting in a location where the use of a flash is restricted.

When you turn the mode dial, the explanation of the selected mode and

methods of shooting are displayed on the screen (Help Guide disp.). You

can clear the Help Guide (page 134).

1 Set the mode dial to

(Flash Off).

2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an easily viewable angle and hold

the camera.

3 Overlay the AF area on the

desired subject.

• If the

(Camera shake warning)

indicator flashes, carefully shoot the

subject, holding the camera steady, or

by using a tripod.

(Camera shake

warning) indicator

AF area

4 When using a zoom lens, turn the

zoom ring, then decide on your

shot.

Zoom ring

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5 Press the shutter button halfway

down to focus.

When the focus is confirmed, z or

(Focus indicator) lights up (page 80).

• Waiting until the

(SteadyShot scale)

indicator is low makes the SteadyShot

function more effective.

Focus indicator

(SteadyShot scale) indicator

6 Press the shutter button fully

down to shoot.

Note

• Since the camera turns on the automatic setting function, many features will be

unavailable, such as exposure compensation, ISO setting. If you want to adjust

various settings, set the mode dial to P, then shoot your subject.

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Using the Face Detection function

The camera detects faces, adjusts the focus, exposure, performs image

processing, and adjusts flash settings. The Face Detection function is set to

[On] in the default setting.

The Face Detection frame

When the camera detects faces, white

Face Detection frames appear. When the

camera judges that autofocus is possible,

the Face Detection frames turn orange.

When you press the shutter halfway

down, the Face Detection frames turn

green.

Face Detection frames (white)

Face Detection frames (orange)

• If a face is not positioned inside the AF

area available when you press the

shutter button halfway down, the AF

area that is used for focusing turns

green.

• When the camera detects multiple

faces, the camera automatically selects

a priority face and the single Face

Detection frame turns orange.

To deactivate the Face Detection function

Fn button t

(Face Detection) t [Off]

Shooting technique

• Compose to overlay the Face Detection frame and the AF area.

Notes

• The Face Detection function cannot be used in viewfinder mode or with the manual

focus check function.

• Up to eight faces can be detected.

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• The camera may not detect any faces, or may detect some other object, depending on

the shooting conditions.

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Shooting with a suitable setting for the

subject (Scene Selection)

Selecting an appropriate mode for the subject or the shooting conditions

allows you to shoot the image with a suitable setting for the subject.

When you turn the mode dial, the explanation of the selected mode and

methods of shooting are displayed on the screen (Help Guide disp.).

Notes

• Since the camera judges the settings automatically, many features will be

unavailable, such as exposure compensation, ISO setting.

• The flash is set to

(Autoflash) or

(Flash Off) for each Scene Selection mode.

You can change these settings (page 88).

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Taking portrait photos

This mode is suitable for

zBlurring away backgrounds and

sharpening the subject.

zExpressing skin tones softly.

Set the mode dial to

(Portrait).

Shooting techniques

• To blur the background more, set the lens to the telephoto position.

• You can shoot a vivid image by focusing on the eye that is closer to the

lens.

• Use the lens hood (sold separately) to shoot backlit subjects.

• Use the red-eye reduction function if the eyes of your subject turn red

from the flash (page 90).

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Taking landscape photos

This mode is suitable for

zShooting the entire range of scenery

in sharp focus with vivid colors.

Set the mode dial to

(Landscape).

Shooting technique

• To accentuate the openness of the scenery, set the lens to wide angle.

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Taking small-subject photos

This mode is suitable for

zShooting close subjects such as

flowers, insects, dishes, or small

goods.

Set the mode dial to

(Macro).

Shooting techniques

• Get close to the subject and shoot at the minimum distance of the lens.

• You can shoot a closer subject using a macro lens (sold separately).

• Set the flash mode to (Flash Off) when you shoot a subject within 1 m

(3.3 feet).

• When shooting in macro mode, the SteadyShot function will not be fully

effective. Use a tripod to achieve better results.

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Taking moving-subject photos

This mode is suitable for

zShooting moving subjects outdoors

or in bright places.

Set the mode dial to

(Sports Action).

Shooting techniques

• The camera shoots images continuously while the shutter button is

pressed.

• Press and hold the shutter button halfway down until the right moment.

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Taking sunset photos

This mode is suitable for

zShooting the red of the sunset

beautifully.

Set the mode dial to

(Sunset).

Shooting technique

• Used to shoot an image accentuating the red color compared with other

modes. This is also suitable for shooting the beautiful red of the sunrise.

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Taking night view photos

This mode is suitable for

zShooting portraits in night scenes.

zShooting night scenes at a distance

without losing the dark atmosphere

of the surroundings.

Set the mode dial to

(Night Port./View).

Set the flash mode to (Flash Off) when you shoot a night view without

persons (page 88).

Shooting techniques

• Take care that the subject does not move to prevent the image from

blurring.

• The shutter speed is slower, so using a tripod is recommended.

Note

• The picture may not be taken properly when shooting a wholly dark night scene.

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Shooting an image the way you want it

(Exposure mode)

With a single lens reflex camera, you can adjust the shutter speed (how

long the shutter is open) and aperture (the range that is in focus: depth of

field) to enjoy a variety of photographic expressions.

Adjusting the shutter speed and aperture not only creates the photographic

effects of movement and focus, but also determines the brightness of the

image by controlling the amount of exposure (the amount of light the

camera takes in), which is the most important factor in photo shooting.

Changing the brightness of the picture by the amount of exposure

Amount of

exposure

low

high

When using a faster shutter speed, the camera opens the shutter for a

shorter time. This means less time for the camera to take in light, resulting

in a darker picture. To take a brighter picture, you can open the aperture

(the hole through which the light passes) to some extent in order to adjust

the amount of light the camera takes in at one time.

The brightness of the picture adjusted by the shutter speed and aperture is

called “exposure.”

This section will show you how to adjust the exposure and enjoy various

photo expressions by the use of movement, focus, and light.

When you turn the mode dial, the explanation of the selected mode and

methods of shooting are displayed on the screen (Help Guide disp.). You

can clear the Help Guide (page 134).

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Shooting with program auto

This mode is suitable for

zUsing the automatic exposure, while

keeping the custom settings for ISO

sensitivity, Creative Style, D-Range

optimizer, etc.

1 Set the mode dial to P.

2 Set the shooting functions to your desired settings (pages 79 to

112).

• To fire the flash, press the button.

3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.

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Shooting by controlling the blur of the background

(Aperture priority)

This mode is suitable for

zPutting the subject in sharp focus

and blur everything in front of and

beyond the subject. Opening the

aperture narrows the range that is in

focus. (Depth of field becomes

shallower.)

zShooting the depth of the scenery.

Narrowing down the aperture widens

the range that is in focus. (Depth of

field becomes deeper.)

1 Set the mode dial to A.

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2 Select the aperture value (F-

number) with the control dial.

• Smaller F-number: The foreground and

background of the subject are blurred.

Larger F-number: The subject and its

foreground and background are all in

focus.

• You cannot check the blurring of an

image on the LCD monitor or in the

viewfinder. Check the recorded image

and adjust the aperture.

Aperture (F-number)

3 Adjust the focus and shoot the

subject.

The shutter speed is automatically

adjusted to obtain correct exposure.

• When the camera judges that the proper

exposure is not obtained with the

selected aperture value, the shutter

speed flashes. In such cases, adjust the

aperture again.

Shutter speed

Shooting techniques

• The shutter speed may become slower depending on the aperture value.

When the shutter speed is slower, use a tripod.

• To blur the background more, use a telephoto lens or a lens that is

equipped with a smaller aperture value (bright lens).

Note

• Press the button when you shoot with the flash. However, the flash range differs

according to the aperture value. When you shoot with the flash, check the flash range

(page 90).

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Shooting a moving subject with various expressions

(Shutter speed priority)

This mode is suitable for

zShooting a moving subject at a

moment in time. Use a faster shutter

speed to crisply shoot an instant of

the movement.

zTracing the movement to express the

dynamism and flow. Use a slower

shutter speed to shoot a trailing

image of the moving subject.

1 Set the mode dial to S.

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2 Select the shutter speed with the

control dial.

Shutter speed

3 Adjust the focus and shoot the

subject.

The aperture is automatically adjusted to

obtain correct exposure.

• When the camera judges that the proper

exposure is not obtained with the

selected shutter speed, the aperture

value flashes. In such cases, adjust the

shutter speed again.

Aperture (F-number)

Shooting techniques

• When the shutter speed is slower, use a tripod.

• When shooting an indoor sport, select a higher ISO sensitivity.

Notes

• The

(Camera shake warning) indicator is not indicated in shutter speed priority

mode.

• The higher the ISO sensitivity, the more conspicuous the noise.

• When the shutter speed is one second or more, noise reduction (Long exp.NR) will

be done after shooting. You cannot do any further shooting during the reduction.

• Press the button when you shoot with the flash. However, when using the flash, if

you close the aperture (a larger F-number) by making the shutter speed slower, the

light of the flash will not reach distant subjects.

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Shooting with the exposure adjusted manually (Manual

exposure)

This mode is suitable for

zShooting with the desired exposure

setting by adjusting both the shutter

speed and aperture.

1 Set the mode dial to M.

2 Rotate the control dial to adjust

the shutter speed, and while

pressing the

button, rotate the

control dial to adjust the aperture.

button

Aperture (F-number)

Shutter speed

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3 Shoot the image after the

exposure is set.

• Check the exposure value on the EV

scale.

Toward +: Images become brighter.

Toward –: Images become darker.

The b B arrow appears if the set

exposure is beyond the range of the EV

scale. The arrow starts flashing if the

difference becomes greater.

Standard value

Notes

• The

(Camera shake warning) indicator is not indicated in manual exposure

mode.

• When the mode dial is set to M, the ISO setting [AUTO] is set to [200]. In M mode,

the ISO setting [AUTO] is not available. Set the ISO sensitivity as necessary

(page 103).

• Press the button when you shoot with the flash. However, the flash range differs

according to the aperture value. When you shoot with the flash, check the flash range

(page 90).

Manual shift

You can change the shutter speed and aperture value combination without

changing the exposure you set.

Rotate the control dial while pressing the

AEL button to select the shutter speed

and aperture value combination.

AEL button

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Shooting trails with long exposure (BULB)

This mode is suitable for

zShooting trails of light, such as

fireworks.

zShooting trails of stars.

1 Set the mode dial to M.

2 Rotate the control dial to the left

until [BULB] is indicated.

BULB

3 While pressing the

button,

rotate the control dial to adjust

the aperture (F-number).

button

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4 Press the shutter button halfway down to adjust the focus.

5 Press and hold the shutter button for the duration of the

shooting.

As long as the shutter button is pressed, the shutter remains open.

Shooting techniques

• Use a tripod.

• Set the focus to infinity in manual focus mode when shooting fireworks,

etc.

• Use the Wireless Remote Commander (sold separately) (page 112).

Pressing the SHUTTER button on the Wireless Remote Commander

triggers BULB shooting and pressing it again stops BULB shooting. You

do not need to press and hold the SHUTTER button on the Wireless

Remote Commander.

• If you use a Remote Commander that is equipped with a shutter button

lock function (sold separately), you can leave the shutter open using the

Remote Commander.

Notes

• When using a tripod, turn off the SteadyShot function (page 48).

• The longer the exposure time, the more conspicuous the noise on the image.

• After shooting, noise reduction (Long exp.NR) will be done for the same amount of

time that the shutter was open. You cannot do any further shooting during the

reduction.

• When the Smile Shutter or Auto HDR function is activated, you cannot set the

shutter speed to [BULB].

• If the Smile Shutter or Auto HDR function is used with the shutter speed set to

[BULB], the shutter speed is temporarily set to 30 seconds.

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Shooting with the viewfinder (OVF)

You can select either the LCD monitor (Live View) or the viewfinder

(OVF) to shoot images.

Switching to the viewfinder

Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to

“OVF.”

The screen status changes as follows:

Viewfinder display

LCD monitor display

When you look into the viewfinder, the subject located in the AF area

comes into focus automatically (Eye-Start AF).

To deactivate the Eye-Start AF function

MENU button t

1 t [Eye-Start AF] t [Off]

• When attaching the FDA-M1AM Magnifier (sold separately), the FDA-

A1AM Angle Finder (sold separately), or the FDA-ME1AM Magnifying

Eyepiece (sold separately) to the camera, setting [Eye-Start AF] to [Off]

is recommended because the eyepiece sensors located below the

viewfinder may be activated.

Note

• A thin line may extend outward from the focus area in the viewfinder. This is not a

malfunction.

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Adjusting the focus of the finder (diopter adjustment)

Adjust the diopter-adjustment dial

to your eyesight until the display

appears clearly in the viewfinder.

• Training the camera on a light allows you to

adjust the diopter easily.

• When the indicators do not appear clearly,

even if you adjust the diopter, it is

recommended that you use a dioptic

adjustment attachment (sold separately).

When it is hard to rotate the diopter-adjustment dial

Put your fingers under the eyecup, and

slide it upward to remove the eyecup,

then adjust the diopter.

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Switching the recording information display (DISP)

Press the DISP button to switch between

the Graphic Display and the Standard

Display.

When you rotate the camera to a vertical

position, the display automatically rotates

to adjust to the camera position.

DISP button

Graphic Display

(Default setting)

Standard Display

No display

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LCD monitor (Graphic Display)

The Graphic Display graphically shows the shutter speed and aperture

value and clearly illustrates how the exposure works. In AUTO or Scene

Selection mode, only the items that can be set are displayed. See the pages

in parentheses for details of operation.

Display

Indication

Exposure compensation

indicator (93)

Display

Indication

P A S M Mode dial (50 – 70)

Display

Indication

Image quality (129)

Flash mode (88)/Red-eye

reduction (90)

Image size (128)/Aspect

Drive mode (108)

Memory card (22)

•

is only for the

DSLR-A550.

100

Remaining number of

recordable images (29)

Focus mode (82)

100% Remaining battery (18)

ISO sensitivity (103)

D-Range Optimizer (98)/

Auto HDR (99)

Display

Indication

Shutter speed indicator

(65)

Aperture indicator (63)

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Display

1/250

Indication

Aperture (63)

+1.0

Exposure compensation

(93)

SteadyShot (48)

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LCD monitor (Standard Display)

See pages in parentheses for details of operation.

In AUTO or Scene Selection mode

In P/A/S/M mode

Display

Indication

Drive mode (108)

Display

Indication

•

is only for the

DSLR-A550.

P A S M Mode dial (50 – 70)

Focus mode (82)

Image quality (129)

AF area (83)

AWB

White balance (Auto,

Preset, Custom, Color

temperature, Color filter)

Image size (128)/Aspect

7500K G9 (104)

Memory card (22)

D-Range Optimizer (98)/

Auto HDR (99)

100

Remaining number of

recordable images (29)

Creative Style (101)

100% Remaining battery (18)

Metering mode (97)

Display

Indication

Exposure compensation

(93)

Flash mode (88)/Red-eye

reduction (90)

Flash compensation (95)

EV scale (68, 11 1)

ISO sensitivity (103)

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Display

1/125

F2.8

Indication

Aperture (63)

Exposure (93)

SteadyShot (48)

+1.0

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Viewfinder

* When using the HVL-F58AM/HVL-

F42AM Flash (sold separately), you

can shoot with the High-speed sync

feature at any shutter speed. For

details, refer to the operating

Display

Indication

AF area (83)

Spot metering area (97)

instructions supplied with the flash.

Shooting area for aspect

ratio 16:9 (128)

Display

Indication

Flash compensation (95)

Flash charging (88)

Wireless flash (91)

High-speed sync*

Manual focus (84)

Focus

125

5.6

Aperture (63)

EV scale (68, 11 1)

“Shooting unavailable”

warning (108)

Camera shake warning

(48)

SteadyShot scale (48)

Aspect ratio 16:9 (128)

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Using the shooting function

Selecting the focus method

There are two methods for adjusting the focus: autofocus and manual focus.

Depending on the lens, the method for switching between the auto focus

and manual focus is different.

The switch to be To switch to auto

used focus

To switch to manual

focus

The type of lens

The lens is

equipped with a

focus mode switch switch on the

camera to AF.)

Lens (Always set Set the focus mode Set the focus mode

the focus mode switch on the lens to switch on the lens to

AF. MF.

The lens is not

equipped with a

focus mode switch

Camera

Set the focus mode Set the focus mode

switch on the camera switch on the camera

to AF.

to MF.

Using autofocus

1 Set the focus mode switch on the

camera to AF.

2 When the lens is equipped with

the focus mode switch, set it to

AF.

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3 Press the shutter button halfway

down to check the focus and shoot

the image.

• When the focus is confirmed, the focus

indicator changes to z or

(below).

• The AF area where the focus has been

confirmed turns green.

AF area

Focus indicator

Shooting technique

• To select the AF area used for focusing, set up [AF area] (page 83).

Focus indicator

Status

z lit

Focus locked. Ready to shoot.

lit

Focus is confirmed. Focal point moves following a moving

subject. Ready to shoot.

lit

Still focusing. You cannot release the shutter.

Cannot focus. The shutter is locked.

z flashing

Subjects that may require special focusing

Using the autofocus, it is hard to focus on the following subjects. In such

cases, use the focus lock shooting feature (page 81) or manual focus

(page 84).

• A subject that is low in contrast, such as blue sky or a white wall.

• Two subjects at different distances overlapping in the AF area.

• A subject that is composed of repeating patterns, such as the facade of a

building.

• A subject that is very bright or glittering, such as the sun, the body of an

automobile, or the surface of water.

• Ambient light is not sufficient.

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To measure the exact distance to the subject

The mark located on the top of the

camera shows the location of the image

sensor*. When you measure the exact

distance between the camera and the

subject, refer to the position of the

horizontal line.

* The image sensor is the part of the

camera that acts as the film.

Note

• If the subject is closer than the minimum shooting distance of the attached lens, the

focus cannot be confirmed. Make sure you put enough distance between the subject

and the camera.

Shooting with your desired composition (Focus-lock)

1 Place the subject within the AF

area and press the shutter button

halfway down.

The focus and exposure are fixed.

2 Keep the shutter button halfway

down, and put the subject back in

the original position to re-

compose the shot.

3 Press the shutter button fully down to take the picture.

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Selecting the focus method to suit the movement of the

subject (Autofocus mode)

Fn button t

(Autofocus mode) t Select the desired setting

(Single-shot

AF)

The camera focuses and the focus is locked when you press

the shutter button halfway down.

(Automatic AF) The [Autofocus mode] is switched between Single-shot AF

and Continuous AF according to the movement of the

subject.

When you press and hold the shutter button halfway down, if

the subject is motionless, the focus is locked and if the

subject is in motion, the camera continues to focus.

(Continuous

The camera continues to focus while the shutter button is

pressed and held halfway down.

AF)

• The audio signals will not sound when the subject is in

focus.

• Focus-lock cannot be used.

Shooting techniques

• Use

(Single-shot AF) when the subject is motionless.

(Continuous AF) when the subject is in motion.

Notes

•

(Automatic AF) is selected when the exposure mode is set to AUTO or one of

the following Scene Selection modes:

(Night Port./View).

(Single-shot AF) is selected when the exposure mode is set to

Scene Selection.

(Continuous AF) is selected when the exposure mode is set to

Action) in Scene Selection.

(Portrait),

(Landscape),

(Sunset), or

(Macro) in

(Sports

•

(Continuous AF) is selected when the Smile Shutter function is used.

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Selecting the focus area (AF area)

Select the desired AF area to suit the

shooting conditions or your preference.

The AF area where the focus has been

confirmed turns green and the other AF

areas disappear.

• The AF area used for focusing is

illuminated briefly in viewfinder mode.

AF area

Fn button t

(Wide)

(AF area) t Select the desired setting

The camera determines which of the nine AF areas is used in

focusing.

(Spot)

The camera uses the AF area located in the center area

exclusively.

(Local)

Choose the area for which you want to activate the focus

from among nine AF areas with the controller. To select the

AF areas located in the center area, press the AF button.

Notes

• When the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection, or the Smile Shutter is

activated, [AF area] is fixed to

(Wide) and you cannot select the other settings.

• The AF area may not be illuminated during continuous shooting or when the shutter

button is pressed all the way down without pause.

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Adjusting the focus manually (Manual focus)

When it is difficult to get the proper focus in autofocus mode, you can

adjust the focus manually.

1 Set the focus mode switch on the

lens to MF.

2 When the lens is not equipped

with the focus mode switch, set

the focus mode switch on the

camera to MF.

3 Rotate the focusing ring of the

lens to achieve a sharp focus.

Focusing

ring

Notes

• In the case of a subject that can be focused in autofocus mode, the z indicator lights

up when the focus is confirmed. When the Wide AF area is used, the center area is

used, and when the Local AF area is used, the area that is selected with the controller

is used.

• When using a tele converter (sold separately), etc., rotation of the focusing ring may

not be smooth.

• The correct focus in the viewfinder is not achieved if the diopter is not adjusted

properly in viewfinder mode (page 72).

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Checking the focus by enlarging the image (Manual focus

check)

You can check the focus by enlarging the image before shooting using the

image sensor used for recording.

MF CHECK LV button

1 Press the MF CHECK LV button.

The mirror slides up and the image is

displayed on the LCD monitor in the 100-

percent field of view.

• The indication of the shutter speed and

exposure are fixed when the manual

focus check starts. The camera meters

the light again right before shooting

and the exposure is set.

• The image is displayed with the proper

brightness regardless of the determined

exposure. The exposure compensation

is not reflected in the displayed image,

however, it is reflected in the recorded

image.

button

2 Press the button to enlarge the

image and select the portion you

want to enlarge with v/V/b/B on

the controller.

• Each time you press the

button, the

zoom scaling changes as follows: Full

display t Approx. ×7 t Approx. ×14

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3 Confirm and adjust the focus.

• You can adjust the focus manually in manual focus check mode.

• If you press the AF button in autofocus mode, the autofocus is activated.

The mirror slides down in autofocus mode and the display is interrupted.

• When [AF area] is set to

using the controller.

(Local), the autofocus can also be activated

4 Press the shutter button fully down to shoot the image.

• You can record images when the zoom scaling is set to approx. ×7 or ×14,

however the recorded image is for full display.

• The manual focus check function will be released after shooting.

Shooting techniques

• If you press the MF CHECK LV button when the camera is in AE lock

mode, you can check a version of the image that reflects the compensated

exposure. When you start shooting from this point, the camera starts

exposure at the AE lock state.

• You can remove a grid line (page 136).

Notes

• The camera does not focus on a subject when you press the shutter button halfway

down.

• You cannot use the Face Detection and Smile Shutter functions.

• The image in the viewfinder is not visible in manual focus check mode.

• When

is indicated, the temperature of the camera is increasing. If you intend to

continue to perform the manual focus check, you cannot use the camera until the

temperature decreases (page 170).

• When using the manual focus check function in viewfinder mode, it is recommend

that you attach the eyepiece cover (page 28).

• When you perform continuous or exposure bracket shooting in manual focus check

mode, the autofocus is set at the first shot.

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Zooming in in one step

You can zoom in to the center of an image using the smart teleconverter

(Digital zoom) and record the image.

1 Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to

“LIVE VIEW.”

button

2 Press the

button.

• Each time you press the

button, the

zoom scaling changes as follows:

Approx. ×1.4 t Approx. ×2 t Off

The image size is automatically set to the following regardless of the

selected image size.

Zoom scaling

Approx. ×1.4

Approx. ×2

Image size

Notes

• The smart teleconverter is unavailable when the manual focus check function is

available, the Smile Shutter function is set to [On], or [Quality] is set to

(RAW) or

• When the smart teleconverter is available (when in autofocus mode), [AF area] is set

to (Spot).

(RAW & JPEG).

• When the smart teleconverter is available, [Metering mode] is set to

segment).

(Multi

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Using the flash

In a dark location, using the flash allows you to shoot the subject brightly,

and it also helps to prevent camera shake. When shooting into the sun, you

can use the flash to shoot a bright image of the backlit subject.

1 Fn button t (Flash mode) t Select the desired setting

button

2 Press the button.

The flash pops up.

• In AUTO or Scene Selection mode, the

flash automatically pops up if the

amount of light is insufficient or the

subject is backlit. The built-in flash

does not pop up even if you press the

button.

3 After the flash has finished

charging, shoot the subject.

z Flashing: The flash is being charged.

When the indicator flashes, you cannot

release the shutter.

z Lit: The flash has been charged and is

ready to fire.

z (Flash charging) indicator

• When you press the shutter button

halfway down under dark lighting in

autofocus mode, the flash may be fired

to help focus on a subject (AF

illuminator).

• z is not indicated in Graphic Display

mode.

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(Flash Off)

(Autoflash)

(Fill-flash)

(Slow sync.)

Does not fire even the built-in flash pops up.

Fires if it is dark or against light.

Fires every time you trigger the shutter.

Fires every time you trigger the shutter. Slow sync shooting

allows you to shoot a clear image of both the subject and the

background by slowing the shutter speed.

(Rear sync.)

(Wireless)

Fires right before the exposure is completed everytime you

trigger the shutter.

Fires an external flash (sold separately) that is off the camera

and away from it (Wireless flash shooting).

Shooting techniques

• The lens hood (sold separately) may block the light of the flash. Remove

the lens hood when using the flash.

• When using the flash, shoot the subject at a distance of 1 m (3.3 feet) or

greater.

• When shooting indoors or shooting nightscapes, you can use slow sync to

shoot a brighter image of people and backgrounds.

• You can use rear sync to shoot a natural image of the trail of a moving

subject such as a moving bicycle or a walking person.

Notes

• Do not hold the camera by grabbing the flash emitter.

• Shooting conditions required to prevent shadows from appearing on an image vary,

depending on the lens.

• When the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection, the

(Rear sync.), and (Wireless) items cannot be selected.

(Slow sync.),

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The flash range

The range of the built-in flash depends on the ISO sensitivity and aperture

value. Refer to the following table.

Aperture

F2.8

F4.0

F5.6

ISO

setting

200

400

800

1 – 6 m (3.3 – 20

feet)

1 – 4.3 m (3.3 – 14 1 – 3 m (3.3 – 9.8

feet)

1.4 – 8.6 m (4.6 – 28 1 – 6 m (3.3 – 20

feet)

1 – 4.3 m (3.3 – 14

feet)

2 – 12 m (6.6 – 39

feet)

1.4 – 8.6 m (4.6 – 28 1 – 6 m (3.3 – 20

feet) feet)

The AF illuminator

• AF illuminator does not operate when [Autofocus mode] is set to

(Continuous AF) or the subject is moving in (Automatic AF). (The

or indicator lights.)

• The AF illuminator may not operate with focal lengths of 300 mm or longer.

• When an external flash (sold separately) is attached, the AF illuminator of

the external flash is used.

• AF illuminator does not operate when [Smile Shutter] is set to [On].

To deactivate the AF illuminator

MENU button t

1 t [AF illuminator] t [Off]

To use the red-eye reduction

The red-eye reduction reduces the red-eye phenomenon by providing pre-

flash (low-flash light) a few times before shooting when using the flash.

MENU button t

1 t [Red eye reduc.] t [On]

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Performing wireless flash shooting

With a flash that has a wireless shooting function (sold separately), you can

shoot with the flash without a cord, even when the flash is not attached to

the camera. By changing the position of the flash, you can shoot an image

with a three dimensional feel by highlighting the contrast of light and

shadow on the subject.

For the actual steps of shooting, refer to the operating instructions of the

flash.

1 Attach the wireless flash to the accessory shoe and turn both

the camera and the flash on.

2 Fn button t (Flash mode) t (Wireless)

3 Remove the wireless flash from the accessory shoe and pop up

the built-in flash.

• If you perform a test fire of the flash, press the AEL button.

Notes

• The camera cannot carry out the wireless lighting ratio control.

• Turn off the wireless flash mode after wireless flash shooting. If the built-in flash is

used while the wireless flash mode is still active, inaccurate flash exposures will

result.

• Change the channel of the external flash when another photographer is using a

wireless flash nearby and his/her built-in flash light causes your external flash to fire.

To change the channel of the external flash, refer to the operating instructions

supplied with it.

Setup of the AEL button

When using a wireless flash, it is recommended that you set [AEL button]

to [AEL hold] in the

Custom menu (page 133).

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Adjusting the brightness of the image

(Exposure, Flash compensation,

Metering)

Shooting with fixed brightness (AE Lock)

When shooting into the sun or by a window, the exposure may not be

appropriate for the subject because of the big difference in lighting between

the subject and the background. In such cases, use the light meter where the

subject is bright enough and lock the exposure before shooting. To reduce

the brightness of the subject, point the camera forwards a spot that is

brighter than the subject and use the light meter to lock the exposure of the

entire image. To make the subject brighter, point the camera forwards a

spot that is darker than the subject and use the light meter to lock the

exposure of the entire image.

This section describes how to shoot a brighter image of the subject using

the (Spot).

The spot where you

lock the exposure.

1 Fn button t (Metering mode) t (Spot)

2 Adjust the focus on the portion you want to lock the exposure.

The exposure is set when the focus is achieved.

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3 Press the AEL button to lock the

exposure.

(AE lock mark) appears.

AEL button

4 While pressing the AEL button, focus on the subject, and shoot

the subject.

• If you continue to shoot with the same exposure value, press and hold the

AEL button after the shooting. The setting is canceled when the button is

released.

Using brightness compensation for the entire image

(Exposure compensation)

Except for exposure mode M, the exposure is automatically selected

(Automatic exposure).

Based on the exposure acquired by the automatic exposure, you can

perform exposure compensation by shifting the exposure to either the +

side or the – side, depending on your preference. You can make the entire

image brighter by shifting to the + side. The entire image becomes darker

when you shift it to the – side.

Adjust in the –

direction

Base exposure

Adjust in the +

direction

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button

1 Press the

button.

• The exposure compensation screen is

displayed in the viewfinder mode.

2 Adjust the exposure with the

control dial.

Toward + (over): Brightens an image.

Toward – (under): Darkens an image.

Standard exposure

3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.

Shooting techniques

• Adjust the compensation level by checking the recorded image.

• Using bracket shooting, you can shoot multiple images with the exposure

shifted to the plus or minus sides (page 110).

Note

• This item cannot be set when the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection.

To shoot while checking the screen using the histogram

The histogram displays the luminance

distribution that shows how many pixels

of a particular brightness exist in the

picture. To display the histogram, press

the DISP button (pages 40 and 115).

Dark

Light

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The exposure compensation will change

the histogram accordingly. The right

illustration is an example.

Shooting with the exposure

compensation on the positive side

brightens the whole picture, making the

entire histogram shift to the bright side

(right side). If the exposure compensation

is applied on the negative side, the

histogram will shift to the other side.

Both ends of the histogram show a high-

key or low-key portion. It is impossible to

restore these area with a computer later.

Adjust the exposure if necessary and

shoot again.

Notes

• The histogram displayed in Live View mode does not indicate the final recorded

image. It indicates the condition of the image just monitored on the LCD monitor.

The histogram will differ based on aperture setting, etc.

• The histogram differs between shooting and playback in the following situations:

– When firing the flash.

– When the subject has low intensity, such as night scenery.

Adjusting the amount of flash light (Flash compensation)

When shooting with the flash, you can adjust the amount of flash light

alone, without changing the exposure compensation. You can only change

the exposure of a main subject which is within the flash range.

Fn button t (Flash compens.) t Select the desired setting

Toward +: Makes the flash level higher.

Toward –: Makes the flash level lower.

Notes

• This item cannot be set when the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection.

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• If you have adjusted the flash level,

appears in the viewfinder when the built-in

flash is pulled up. When you adjust it, be careful not to forget to reset the value.

• The higher flash effect may not be visible due to the limited amount of flash light, if

the subject is outside the maximum range of the flash. If the subject is very close, the

lower flash effect may not be visible.

Exposure compensation and flash compensation

Exposure compensation changes the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO sensitivity (when

[AUTO] is selected) to perform the compensation. If the flash is used, the amount of

flash light is also changed.

However, flash compensation only changes the amount of flash light.

Selecting the flash control mode to set the amount of flash

light (Flash control)

MENU button t

1 t [Flash control] t Select the desired

setting

ADI flash

This method controls the lighting of the flash, factoring in the

focus distance information and light metering data from the

pre-flash. This method enables an accurate flash

compensation with virtually no effect from the reflection off

the subject.

Pre-flash TTL

This method controls the amount of flash light depending on

the data only from pre-flash light metering. This method is

susceptible to the reflection off the subject.

ADI: Advanced Distance Integration

TTL: Through the lens

• When [ADI flash] is selected, using a lens that is provided with a distance

encoder feature can perform more accurate flash compensation by using

more accurate distance information.

Notes

• When the distance between the subject and the external flash (sold separately)

cannot be determined (wireless flash shooting using an external flash (sold

separately), shooting with an off-camera flash using a cable, shooting with a macro

twin flash, etc.), the camera automatically selects Pre-flash TTL mode.

• Select [Pre-flash TTL] in the following cases, as the camera cannot perform flash

compensations with ADI flash.

– A wide panel is attached to the HVL-F36AM flash.

– A diffuser is used for flash shooting.

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– A filter with an exposure factor, such as an ND filter, is used.

– A close-up lens is used.

• ADI flash is only available in combination with a lens that is provided with a

distance encoder. To determine if the lens is equipped with a distance encoder, refer

to the operating instructions supplied with the lens.

Selecting the method for measuring the brightness of a

subject (Metering mode)

Fn button t (Metering mode) t Select the desired mode

(Multi segment) This mode measures light on each area after dividing the total

area into multiple areas and determines the proper exposure

of the entire screen.

(Center weighted) While emphasizing the central area of the screen, this mode

measures the average brightness of the entire screen.

(Spot)

This mode measures light only in the spot metering circle

located in the center area.

Shooting techniques

• Use (Multi segment) metering for general shooting.

• When there is a high contrast subject in the AF area, measure the light of

the subject you want to shoot with the optimal exposure using the spot

metering function and take advantage of an AE lock shooting (page 92).

Note

• When the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection, [Metering mode] is

fixed to

(Multi segment) and you cannot select other modes.

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Compensating for the brightness and

contrast automatically (D-Range)

D-RANGE button

D-RANGE button t Select the

desired setting

(Off)

(DRO)

Does not use the DRO/Auto HDR functions.

By dividing the image into small areas, the camera analyses

the contrast of light and shadow between the subject and the

background, producing the image with the optimal brightness

and gradation.

(Auto HDR)

Shoots two images with different exposures, and then

overlays the bright area of the under exposed image and the

dark area of the over exposed image to create an image with

rich gradation.

Correcting the brightness of the image (D-Range

Optimizer)

1 D-RANGE button t

(DRO)

2 Select an optimal level with b/B on the controller.

(Auto)

(Level)*

Corrects the brightness automatically.

Optimizes the gradations of a recorded image in each area of

the image. Select the optimal level between Lv1 (weak) and

Lv5 (strong).

* Lv_ displayed with

is the step currently selected.

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Notes

• The setting is fixed to

(Off) when

(Sunset) or

(Night Port./View) is

selected in Scene Selection. The setting is fixed to

selected in Scene Selection.

(Auto) when other modes are

• When shooting with the D-Range optimizer, the image may be noisy. Select the

proper level by checking the recorded image, especially when you enhance the

effect.

Compensating automatically with rich gradation (Auto High

Dynamic Range)

1 D-RANGE button t

(Auto HDR)

2 Select an optimal level with b/B on the controller.

(Auto Exposure

Diff.)

Corrects the exposure difference automatically.

(Exposure

Difference Level)*

Sets the exposure difference, based on the contrast of the

subject. Select the optimal level between 1.0Ev (weak) and

3.0Ev (strong).

* _Ev displayed with

is the step currently selected.

Shooting technique

• Since the shutter is released twice for one shot, be careful about the

following:

– Use this function when the subject is motionless or does not blink.

– Do not recompose.

– When you photograph people, we recommend that you use the Live

View mode.

Notes

• When the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection, you cannot select

[Auto HDR].

• You cannot start the next shoot until the capture process is completed after you

shoot.

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• You cannot select [Auto HDR] during Smile Shutter. If you turn on the Smile

Shutter function with [Auto HDR] selected, the camera will temporarily use with the

DRO setting.

• You may not obtain a desired effect depending on the luminance difference of a

subject and the shooting conditions.

• When the flash is used, this function has little effect.

• An image recorded with this function is limited to one overlaid image.

• You cannot use this function on RAW images.

• When the contrast of the scene is low or when camera shake or subject blur is

occurred, you may not obtain good HDR images. In such cases,

is indicated

on the recorded image to inform you of this situation. Shoot again, as necessary,

paying attention to the contrast or blur.

100

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Image processing

Selecting your desired image processing (Creative Style)

1 Fn button t

(Creative Style) t Select the desired

setting

2 When you want to adjust (Contrast), (Saturation), or

(Sharpness), select the desired item with b/B, then adjust the

value with v/V.

(Standard)

(Vivid)

For shooting various scenes with rich gradation and beautiful

colors.

The saturation and contrast are heightened for shooting

striking images of colorful scenes and subjects such as

flowers, spring greenery, blue sky, or ocean views.

(Portrait)

For shooting the skin color in a soft tone, ideally suited to

shooting portraits.

(Landscape) The saturation, contrast, and sharpness are heightened for

shooting vivid and crisp scenery. Distant landscapes also

stand out more.

(Sunset)

(B/W)

For shooting the beautiful red of the setting sun.

For shooting images in black and white monotone.

(Contrast), (Saturation), and

Creative Style item.

(Sharpness) can be adjusted for each

(Contrast)

The higher the value selected, the more the difference of light

and shadow is accentuated, thus making an impact on an

image.

(Saturation)

(Sharpness)

The higher the value selected, the more vivid the color. When

a lower value is selected, the color of the image is restrained

and subdued.

Adjusts the sharpness. The higher the value selected, the

more the contours are accentuated, and the lower the value

selected, the more the contours are softened.

101

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Notes

• When the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection, [Creative Style] is

fixed to

• When

(Standard) and you cannot select other settings.

(B/W) is selected, you cannot adjust the saturation.

Changing the range of color reproduction (Color Space)

The way colors are represented with combinations of numbers or the range

of color reproduction is called “color space.” You can change the color

space, depending on your purpose.

MENU button t

1 t [Color Space] t Select the desired

setting

sRGB

This is the standard color space of the digital camera. Use

sRGB in normal shooting, such as when you intend to print

out the images without any modification.

AdobeRGB

This has a wide range of color reproduction. When a large

part of the subject is vivid green or red, Adobe RGB is

effective.

• The file name of the image starts with “_DSC.”

Notes

• Adobe RGB is for applications or printers that support color management and

DCF2.0 option color space. Using some applications or printers that do not support

them may result in or print images that do not faithfully reproduce the color.

• When displaying images that were recorded with Adobe RGB on the camera or non-

Adobe RGB-compliant devices, the images are displayed with low saturation.

102

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Setting ISO

Sensitivity to light is expressed by the ISO number (recommended

exposure index). The larger the number, the higher the sensitivity.

ISO button

1 Press the ISO button to display

the ISO screen.

2 Select the desired value with v/V on the controller.

• The larger the number, the higher the noise level.

Notes

• When the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection, ISO is fixed to AUTO

and you cannot select other ISO numbers.

• When the exposure mode is set to P/A/S and ISO is set to [AUTO], ISO is

automatically set between ISO 200 and ISO 1600.

• The [AUTO] setting is not provided in exposure mode M. If you change the

exposure mode to M with the [AUTO] setting, it is switched to [200]. Set the ISO

according to your shooting conditions.

103

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Adjusting the color tones (White balance)

The color tone of the subject changes depending on the characteristics of

the light source. The table below shows how the color tone changes based

on various light sources, compared with a subject that appears white under

the sunlight.

Daylight

Cloudy

Fluorescent

Incandescent

Weather/

lighting

Characteristics

of light

White

Bluish

Green-tinged

Reddish

White balance is a feature that adjusts the color tone to approximate what

you see. Use this feature when the color tone of the image did not come out

as you expected, or when you want to change the color tone on purpose for

photographic expression.

Notes

• When the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene Selection, [White balance] is

fixed to AWB (Auto WB) and you cannot select other modes.

• If the only light source available is a mercury lamp or a sodium lamp, the camera

will not be able to acquire the accurate white balance because of the characteristics

of the light source. Use the flash in such cases.

Adjusting the white balance to suit a specific light source

(Auto/Preset white balance)

Fn button t AWB (White balance) t Select the desired setting

• When [AWB] is not selected, you can fine tune the color tone with b/B

on the controller. Adjusting it toward + turns the image reddish and

adjusting it toward – turns the image bluish.

104

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AWB (Auto WB)

The camera automatically detects a light source and adjusts

the color tones.

(Daylight)

(Shade)

If you select an option to suit a specific light source, the color

tones are adjusted for the light source (preset white balance).

(Cloudy)

(Incandescent)

(Fluorescent)

(Flash)

Shooting techniques

• Use the white balance bracket function if you cannot get the desired color

in the selected option (page 111).

• When you select [5500K] (ColorTemperature) or [0] (Color filter), you

can adjust the value to the desired value (below).

• When you select

(Custom), you can register your setting (page 106).

Setting the color temperature and a filter effect (Color

Temperature/Color filter)

Fn button t AWB (White balance) t [5500K]

(ColorTemperature) or [0] (Color filter)

• To set the color temperature, select the value with b/B.

• To set the color filter, select the compensation direction with b/B.

Note

• Since color meters are designed for film cameras, the values differ under fluorescent/

sodium lamp/mercury lamps. We recommend that you use the custom white balance

or do a test shooting.

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5500K*¹

Sets the white balance by the color temperature. The higher

(ColorTemperature) the number, the more reddish the image and the lower the

number, the more bluish the image.

0*²(Color filter)

Achieves the effect of CC (Color Compensation) filters for

photography.

Based on using the set color temperature as the standard, the

color can be compensated to G (Green) or M (Magenta).

*1 The value is the color temperature value currently selected.

*2 The value is the color filter value currently selected.

Registering the color tones (Custom white balance)

In a scene where the ambient light consists of multiple types of light source,

use of custom white balance is recommended in order to accurately

reproduce the whiteness.

1 Fn button t AWB (White balance) t

(Custom)

2 Select [

SET] with b/B on the controller, then press the

center of the controller.

3 Hold the camera so that the white area fully covers the AF area

located in the center, and then press the shutter button down.

The shutter clicks and the calibrated values (ColorTemperature and Color

filter) are displayed.

4 Press the center of the controller.

The monitor returns to the recording information display with the memorized

custom white balance setting retained.

• The custom white balance setting registered in this operation is effective

until a new setting is registered.

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Note

• The message “Custom WB error” indicates that the value is beyond the expected

range. (When the flash is used on a subject in close proximity or a subject with a

bright color is in the frame.) If you register this value, the

indicator turns yellow

on the recording information display on the LCD monitor. You can shoot at this

point, but it is recommended that you set the white balance again to get a more

correct white balance value.

To call the custom white balance setting

Fn button t AWB (White balance) t

(Custom)

Note

• If the flash is used when the shutter button is pressed, a custom white balance is

registered with the flash light taken into account. Take pictures with the flash in later

shootings.

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Selecting the drive mode

This camera has seven drive modes, such as single-shot advanced, and

continuous advanced. Use them to suit your purpose.

Shooting single shot

This mode is for normal shooting.

button t

(Single-shot adv.)

Note

• When the exposure mode is set to

shoot single shot.

(Sports Action) in Scene Selection, you cannot

Shooting continuously

The camera records the images continuously at the following speeds*.

Maximum 4 images per

second

Maximum 3 images per

second

Live View mode

Viewfinder mode

Maximum 5 images per

second

Maximum 3 images per

second

* Our measurement conditions. The speed of continuous shooting is slower,

depending on shooting conditions.

button t

(Continuous adv.) t Select the desired

speed

2 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.

• When you press and hold the shutter button, the recording continues.

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The maximum number of continuous shots

The number of continuous shooting images obtainable has an upper limit.

DSLR-A550

32 images

116 images

7 images

DSLR-A500

12 images

58 images

3 images

Fine

Standard

RAW & JPEG

RAW

14 images

6 images

To shoot continuously at higher speeds (DSLR-A550 only)

The camera shoots continuously at a maximum of seven images per second.

The exposure and focus are set at the first shot.

button t

(Spd.Prty.Cont.Adv.)

Notes

• You cannot shoot images continuously when “0” flashes in the viewfinder. Wait

until the indicator disappears.

• You cannot shoot continuously when using Scene Selection modes other than

(Sports Action).

• When [Face Detection] is set to [On], the speed of continuous shooting may be

slower.

Using the self-timer

The 10-second self-timer is convenient when the photographer appears in a

photo and the 2-second self-timer is convenient to reduce the camera shake.

button t

• The number after

(Self-timer) t Select the desired setting

is the number of seconds that is currently selected.

2 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.

• When the self-timer is activated, audio signals and the self-timer lamp

indicate the condition. The self-timer lamp flashes quickly and the audio

signal sounds quickly right before the shooting.

To cancel the self-timer

Press the

button.

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Note

• When you shoot images using the viewfinder, use the eyepiece cover (page 28).

Shooting images with the exposure shifted (Exposure

bracket)

– direction

+ direction

Base exposure

Bracket shooting allows you to shoot several images, each with different

degrees of exposure. Specify the value of deviation (steps) from the base

exposure, and the camera shoots three images while automatically shifting

the exposure. Press and hold the shutter button until the shooting stops.

When the flash is fired, flash bracket shooting is used to shift the amount of

flash light. To shoot, press the shutter button shot by shot.

button t

bracket step

(Bracket: Cont.) t Select the desired

2 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.

The base exposure is set at the first shot in the bracket.

Notes

• When the mode dial is set to M, the exposure is shifted by adjusting the shutter

speed.

• When you adjust the exposure, the exposure is shifted based on the compensated

value.

• The bracket cannot be used when the exposure mode is set to AUTO or Scene

Selection.

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The EV scale in bracket shooting

Ambient light* bracket

Flash bracket

0.3 steps, three shots

Exposure compensation 0

0.7 steps, three shots

Flash compensation –1.0

LCD monitor (Live View

mode)

LCD monitor

(Viewfinder mode/

Standard Display)

Shown in the top row.

Shown in the bottom row.

Viewfinder

* Ambient light: Any light other than the flash light that shines on the scene

for an extended period of time, such as natural light, a light bulb, or a

fluorescent light.

• In bracket shooting, the same number of indices as the number of

recordable images is displayed on the EV scale. However, in flash bracket

shooting, the indices are not displayed in the viewfinder.

• When the bracket shooting starts, the indices that indicate already

recorded images start to disappear one by one.

Shooting with white balance shifted (WB bracket)

Based on the selected white balance, and the color temperature/color filter,

three images are recorded with the white balance shifted.

button t

(WB bracket) t Select the desired

setting

• When Lo is selected, it is shifted by 10 mired*, and when Hi is selected, it is

shifted by 20 mired.

2 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.

* Mired: a unit to indicate the color conversion quality in color temperature filters.

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Shooting with the Wireless Remote Commander

You can shoot using the SHUTTER and 2SEC (the shutter is released after

2 seconds) buttons on the RMT-DSLR1 Wireless Remote Commander

(sold separately). Also, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the

Wireless Remote Commander.

button t (Remote Commander)

2 Focus on the subject, point the transmitter of the Wireless

Remote Commander to the remote sensor, and shoot the

image.

Note

• When you shoot images using the viewfinder, use the eyepiece cover (page 28).

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Capturing smiling faces (Smile Shutter)

When the camera detects a smile, the shutter is released automatically.

1 Fn button t

(Smile Shutter) t [On] t Select the

desired Smile Detection Sensitivity mode

• When the Smile Shutter is activated, the Smile Detection Sensitivity

indicator appears on the LCD monitor.

2 Wait detecting a smile.

The camera detects a smile and the focus

is confirmed. When the smile level

exceeds the b point on the indicator, the

camera records images automatically.

• When the camera detects faces, orange

Face Detection frames appear around

the faces. The Face Detection frames

turn green when these subjects come

into focus.

Face Detection frame

Smile Detection Sensitivity indicator

• The smile level of the face surrounded

by the double Face Detection frame is

indicated on the Smile Detection

Sensitivity indicator.

3 To stop shooting, Fn button t

(Smile Shutter) t [Off]

Smile Detection Sensitivity

You can set the sensitivity of the Smile Shutter function for detecting

smiles to one of the following three options: (Slight Smile),

(Normal Smile), and

(Big Smile).

Shooting techniques

• To focus on the smile, overlay the Face Detection frame and AF area.

• Do not cover the eyes with bangs, etc. Keep the eyes narrowed.

• Do not obscure the face with a hat, a mask, sunglasses, etc.

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• Try to orient the face in front of the camera and keep it as level as

possible.

• Hold a clear smile with an open mouth. The smile is easier to detect when

the teeth are showing.

• If you press the shutter button while the Smile Shutter function is

activated, the camera shoots the image, and then returns to Smile Shutter.

Notes

• The Smile Shutter function works only when the camera is set to the autofocus in

Live View mode. It does not work in the following cases: if the camera is in

viewfinder mode, when using the manual focus, manual focus check, or smart

teleconverter functions.

• The drive mode is automatically set to

(Single-shot adv.).

• The AF illuminator does not work with the Smile Shutter function.

• If the camera does not detect a smile, change the settings for Smile Detection

Sensitivity.

• Smiles may not be detected correctly, depending on the shooting conditions.

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Using the viewing function

Playing back images

The last recorded image is displayed on the LCD monitor.

1 Press the

button.

button

2 Select an image with b/B on the controller.

To return to the shooting mode

Press the

button again.

To switch the recording data display

Press the DISP button.

Each time you press the DISP button, the screen changes as follows.

Without recording

data

With recording

data

Histogram display

To select the orientation when playing back an image recorded in the

portrait position

MENU button t

1 t [PlaybackDisplay] t Select the

desired setting

Note

• When you play back the image on a TV or a computer, the image will be displayed

in the portrait position even if [Manual rotate] is selected.

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Rotating an image

1 Display the image you want to

rotate, then press the

button.

button

2 Press the center of the controller.

The image is rotated counter-clockwise. When you want to do another

rotation, repeat step 2.

• Once you rotate the image, the image is played back in the rotated position,

even if you turn off the power.

To return to the normal playback screen

Press the

button.

Note

• When you copy rotated images to a computer, “PMB” contained on the CD-ROM

(supplied) can display the rotated images correctly. However, the images may not be

rotated depending on the software.

Enlarging images

An image can be enlarged for closer examination. This is convenient to

check the focus condition of a recorded image.

1 Display the image you want to

enlarge, then press the button.

button

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2 Zoom the image in or out with the

button or button.

• Rotating the control dial switches the

image at the same display

magnification. When you shoot

multiple images with the same

composition, you can compare their

focus conditions.

button

3 Select the portion you want to enlarge with v/V/b/B on the

controller.

To cancel the enlarged playback

Press the

button so that the image returns to the normal size.

Scaling range

The scaling range is as follows.

Scaling range

Image size

DSLR-A550

DSLR-A500

Approx. ×1.1 – ×14

Approx. ×1.1 – ×13.4

Approx. ×1.1 – ×10.1

Approx. ×1.1 – ×6.7

Approx. ×1.1 – ×11

Approx. ×1.1 – ×7.2

Switching to the display of the image list

button.

button

1 Press the

The screen changes to the image index

screen.

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2 Press the DISP button repeatedly

to select the desired screen

format.

• The screen changes in the following

order: 9 images t 4 images

DISP button

To return to the single-image screen

Press the

button or the center of the controller when you select the

desired image.

To select a folder

1Select the folder bar with b/B on the

controller, then press the center.

2Select the desired folder with v/V,

then press the center.

Folder bar

Playing back images automatically (Slide show)

MENU button t 1 t [Slide show]t [OK]

Plays back recorded images in order (Slide show). The slide show

automatically stops after all the images have been played back.

• You can view the previous/next image with b/B on the controller.

To pause the slide show

Press the center of the controller. Pressing again starts the slide show again.

To end in the middle of the slide show

Press the MENU button.

To choose the interval between the images in slide show

MENU button t

1 t [Slide show] t [Interval] t Select

the desired number of seconds

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To play back repeatedly

MENU button t

1 t [Slide show] t [Repeat] t [On]

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Checking the information of recorded

images

Each time you press the DISP button, the information display changes

(page 115).

Basic information display

Display

Indication

Display

Indication

Auto HDR image

warning (99)

Memory card (22)

100-0003 Folder - file number

(145)

Protect (122)

DPOF3

DPOF set (152)

Image quality (129)

Image size (128)/Aspect

Remaining battery

warning (18)

1/125

F3.5

Aperture (63)

ISO200

ISO sensitivity (103)

2009 1 1 Date of recording

10:37AM

3/7

File number/total number

of images

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Histogram display

Display

–0.3

Indication

Flash compensation (95)

Metering mode (97)

Focal length (158)

Creative Style (101)

Display

Indication

Memory card (22)

35mm

100-0003 Folder - file number

(145)

Protect (122)

DPOF3

DPOF set (152)

Image quality (129)

AWB +1 White balance (Auto,

5500K M1 Preset, Color

temperature, Color filter,

Custom) (104)

D-Range Optimizer (98)/

Auto HDR/Auto HDR

image warning (99)

Image size (128)/Aspect

Remaining battery

warning (18)

2009 1 1 Date of recording

10:37AM

3/7

File number/total number

of images

Display

Indication

* When the image has a high-key or

low-key portion, that portion is flashed

on the histogram display (Luminance

limit warning).

Histogram* (94)

P A S M Mode dial (50 – 70)

1/125