Sony Alpha 500
| Brand | Sony 2009 |
| Model | DSLR-A500 |
| Released Year | 2009 |
| Type | DSLR Cameras |
| Series | Alpha |
| Autofocus | 9-point AF system |
| Status | Discontinued |
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Overview
The Sony Alpha 500 is a mid-range DSLR camera featuring a 12.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which delivers high-quality images with low noise at various ISO settings. It is equipped with a 2.7-inch LCD screen that supports clear image preview and menu navigation. The camera utilizes Sony's proprietary BIONZ image processor for fast processing and reduced image noise. Autofocus is handled by a 9-point AF system that aids in capturing sharp images quickly. It offers continuous shooting at up to 5 frames per second, suitable for capturing action shots. The camera supports various interchangeable lenses from the Sony Alpha lineup with the A-mount system.
Specifications
| MPN | DSLR-A500, A500 |
| UPC | 0027242748590 |
| Model | DSLR-A500 |
| Digital Zoom | 2x |
| Type | Digital Single-Lens Reflex Camera |
| Features | Highlight Point Display, Face Detection, Smile Captûre, Automatic Brightness Adjustment, Histogram Display, Exif Print Support, Digital Noise Reduction, Orientation Detection, LCD Live View Mode, Digital Image Rotation, Automatic Face Tracking, Auto Hdr Mode, Sharpness Control, Date/Time Stamp, Saturation Control, Image Stabilization, Dynamic Range Optimizer, Interchangeable Lenses, Direct Print, With Tripod Mount, AE/FE Lock, AF Lock, Smile Detection, DPOF Support, Contrast Control, Eye-Start Af System, PictBridge Support, Print Image Matching, USB 2.0 Compatibility, Shadow Point Display, Built-in Help Guide, Digital Tele-Converter, Quick Af Live View, Brightness Control, Rgb Primary Color Filter, Hdr (High Dynamic Range) Function |
| Series | Sony Alpha |
| Depth | 3.31in |
| Width | 5.39in |
| Item Weight | 20.8 Oz. |
| Height | 4.09in |
| Screen Details | LCD Display-Tft Active Matrix-3"-Color |
| Exposure Compensation | ±2 Ev Range, in 1/3 Ev Steps |
| Tripod Mountable | Yes |
| Light Sensitivity | Iso Auto (200-1600), Iso 200-12800 |
| Sensor Type | Exmor Cmos |
| Exposure Range | Ev 2-20 (Iso 100) |
| Face Detection | Yes |
| Special Effects | Sunset, Neutral, Landscape, Black & White, Portrait, Vivid Audio, Rgb |
| Camera Flash Features | Flash OFF!, Af Illuminator, Fill-In Flash, Wireless OFF!-Camera Control, Slow Sync, Flash +/- Compensation, Flash Exposure Bracketing, Red-Eye Reduction Flash, Auto Flash |
| White Balance | Auto, Incandescent (Preset), Flash (Preset), Cloudy (Preset), Manual, Shade (Preset), Fluorescent (Preset), Daylight / Sunny (Preset) |
| Battery Form Factor | Manufacturer Specific |
| Expansion Slot | 1X SD Memory Card, 1X Memory Stick PRO/Duo |
| Operating System Supported | Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional, Mississippi Windows 2000 Professional, Mississippi Windows Vista, Apple Mac Os X 10.1.3 or Later, Microsoft Windows Vista, Mississippi Windows XP Sp2 |
| Sensor Size | 15.6x23.5mm |
| MAX Shutter SPEED | 1/4000 Sec |
| Display Size | 3in |
| Exposure Modes | Program, Aperture-Priority, Bulb, Shutter-Priority, Manual, Automatic |
| Still Image Format | Raw Image, Dpof 1.1, Raw + JPEG, Raw, JPEG, Exif 2.21, Dcf 2.0 |
| Display Rotation | Folding |
| Screen Size | 3.0"in |
| Light Sensitivity MAX | 12800 |
| Maximum Resolution | 12.3MP |
| Optical Viewfinder Type | Eye-Level Penta-Dach Mirror |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Sensor Resolution | 12.3MP |
| Exposure Metering | Multi-Segment, SPOT, Center-Weighted |
| Min Shutter SPEED | 30 Sec |
| Additional Features | Highlight Point Display, Face Detection, Smile Captûre, Automatic Brightness Adjustment, Histogram Display, Exif Print Support, Digital Noise Reduction, LCD Live View Mode, Orientation Detection, Digital Image Rotation, Ae/Fe Lock, Sharpness Control, Auto Hdr Mode, Automatic Face Tracking, Date/Time Stamp, Saturation Control, Dynamic Range Optimizer, Image Stabilization, Interchangeable Lenses, Direct Print, With Tripod Mount, Smile Detection, Contrast Control, PictBridge Support, Af Lock, Eye-Start Af System, Print Image Matching, USB 2.0 Compatibility, Shadow Point Display, Digital Tele-Converter, Built-In Help Guide, Quick Af Live View, Brightness Control, Dpof Support, Rgb Primary Color Filter, Hdr (High Dynamic Range) Function |
| Flash Type | Pop-Up Flash |
| Min Operating Temperature | 0°C |
| Continuous Shooting SPEED | 5fps |
| Viewfinder-Field Coverage | 95% |
| Exterior Color | Black |
| MAX Operating Temperature | 40°C |
| Connector Types | 1X Hdmi Output, 1X USB |
| Shooting Programs | Sunset, Portrait Mode, Landscape, Sports Mode, Macro, Night Portrait |
| Flash Modes | Red-Eye Reduction, Slow Synchro, Fill-In Mode, Auto Mode, OFF! Mode, Rear Curtain Sync |
| Dioptric Correction Range | -2.5 to +1 |
| Red-Eye Reduction | Yes |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.8X |
| Camera Type | Digital SLR |
| Auto Focus Type | TTL Phase Detection |
| Viewfinder Type | Optical |
| Lens for Sd | Body only |
| Supported Flash Memory | SDHC Memory Card, Memory Stick PRO/Duo, SD Memory Card, Memory Stick Duo Pro, SDHC Card, SD Card, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo |
| Sensor | 12.3 MP APS-C CMOS |
| Processor | BIONZ image processor |
| LCD Screen | 2.7 inches TFT LCD |
| Autofocus | 9-point AF system |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 5 fps |
| Lens Mount | Sony A-mount |
| ISO Range | 100-3200 |
| Video Recording | MPEG-4, no HD |
| Battery | NP-FM500H rechargeable battery |
Images
Key Advantages
The Sony Alpha 500 offers excellent image quality with its 12.3 MP APS-C sensor. Its 9-point autofocus system provides good coverage and quick focusing. The 2.7-inch LCD screen is bright and clear for composing and reviewing shots. Continuous shooting at 5 fps is beneficial for sports and wildlife photography. The camera’s compatibility with a wide range of A-mount lenses allows for versatile shooting options. The BIONZ processor enhances image processing speed and noise reduction efficiently.
Limitations
The Sony Alpha 500's 12.3 MP resolution is modest compared to newer models with higher megapixels. Its ISO range, though decent, may struggle in very low-light conditions. The rear LCD does not have touch functionality, limiting ease of use. The camera's autofocus system, while reliable, lacks advanced tracking features found in higher-end models. Video recording capabilities are limited to basic MPEG-4 without HD video. Battery life is average, requiring spare batteries for extended shoots.
FAQ
What sensor does the Sony Alpha 500 have?
The Sony Alpha 500 features a 12.3 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.
Is the Sony Alpha 500 suitable for beginners?
Yes, it offers user-friendly controls and a helpful LCD screen for beginners.
What lens mount does the Alpha 500 use?
It uses the Sony A-mount system, compatible with many Sony Alpha lenses.
Can the Alpha 500 shoot video?
Yes, it supports basic video recording in MPEG-4 format but does not offer HD video.
Does the camera have image stabilization?
No, the Alpha 500 relies on optical stabilization in compatible lenses rather than in-body stabilization.
What is the continuous shooting speed of the Alpha 500?
It can shoot continuously at up to 5 frames per second.
Is the Sony Alpha 500 still available new?
No, it has been discontinued and is available mainly through used or refurbished sellers.
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