tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165363365077636462012-08-12T19:39:08.763+10:00SONY ALPHA and NEXsharing my experience shooting with Sony cameras and lensesCris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-89301857649501409252012-08-12T19:39:00.001+10:002012-08-12T19:39:08.782+10:002012-08-12T19:39:08.782+10:00NEX-7 Precision Digital Zoom Test<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Playing aroung with the NEX-7 Precision Digital Image Zoom. This is not the same as on the newer Cybershots / SLT / NEX's cameras which Sony called Clear Image Zoom.</div>
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Here are some sample shots and I must say that it will do especially if you don't have a lens >100mm focal length.</div>
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Lens used is the Minolta AF 100/2 attached to the LA-EA2 adapter. Camera was set to AutoWB, Neutral and STD-JPG, f/8.0 and 1/125 shutter speed.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xNhf55dlMR0/UCd3xzgB-YI/AAAAAAAAAU8/t6VLJDaN76g/s1600/_DSC1979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xNhf55dlMR0/UCd3xzgB-YI/AAAAAAAAAU8/t6VLJDaN76g/s320/_DSC1979.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No Precision Digital Image Zoom</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WF-BgQSlydw/UCd33_WSDNI/AAAAAAAAAVE/CFjTZyU1Z4k/s1600/_DSC1980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WF-BgQSlydw/UCd33_WSDNI/AAAAAAAAAVE/CFjTZyU1Z4k/s320/_DSC1980.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoom set to 5x</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oA3XPngt2EM/UCd3-cZho8I/AAAAAAAAAVM/rTBJN_BWrWg/s1600/_DSC1981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oA3XPngt2EM/UCd3-cZho8I/AAAAAAAAAVM/rTBJN_BWrWg/s320/_DSC1981.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoom set to 10x</td></tr>
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<br />With a bit of sharpening in Photoshop (or editing software of your choice), you can definitely sharpen the images and bring out more details.<div>
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Personally, I won't hesitate using the Precision Digital Zoom if needed.</div>
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<br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-8930185764950140925?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-42227535330000038842012-08-10T21:58:00.000+10:002012-08-10T21:58:40.795+10:002012-08-10T21:58:40.795+10:00TV, Reborn!Hi,<br />
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I know this is not camera related but just wanted to share the good news to everyone in Australia.</div>
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Sony's Google TV has arrived!</div>
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Powered by Google Chrome browser, you can access optimised Android app for Google TV, Play Store and Sony's Entertainment Network (Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited).</div>
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Here's a video of some lucky Sony X'ers trying out the Google TV.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/wSKSPjXywXk" width="560"></iframe><br />
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Let me know what you think.<br />
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-4222753533000003884?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-48399189806773937802012-07-20T18:54:00.001+10:002012-07-20T18:54:15.308+10:002012-07-20T18:54:15.308+10:00Sony RX100 - More Sample Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here are more photos taken with the Sony RX100. So far I am very impressed with this tiny camera. All the photos are straight out of camera JPG.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xe0OnROhdEI/UAKsyl_LexI/AAAAAAAAASQ/sA_A0ak0vqA/s1600/DSC00059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xe0OnROhdEI/UAKsyl_LexI/AAAAAAAAASQ/sA_A0ak0vqA/s400/DSC00059.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice Colours</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OaBAh_V_9JM/UAKs70oafEI/AAAAAAAAATI/kv3eZvDfpJ0/s1600/DSC00099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OaBAh_V_9JM/UAKs70oafEI/AAAAAAAAATI/kv3eZvDfpJ0/s400/DSC00099.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flare Control is great!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aMS29G_emTU/UAKs-YhMnjI/AAAAAAAAATg/dUHbwwVyBN4/s1600/DSC00106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aMS29G_emTU/UAKs-YhMnjI/AAAAAAAAATg/dUHbwwVyBN4/s400/DSC00106.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FLBaAUJ5yV8/UAKs87TttsI/AAAAAAAAATQ/3WRKorWmyIA/s1600/DSC00101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FLBaAUJ5yV8/UAKs87TttsI/AAAAAAAAATQ/3WRKorWmyIA/s400/DSC00101.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken using the Clear Image Zoom and Digital Zoom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gf3dRWsgdwE/UAKs4q4mSVI/AAAAAAAAASw/jgLLsv4wSXI/s1600/DSC00074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gf3dRWsgdwE/UAKs4q4mSVI/AAAAAAAAASw/jgLLsv4wSXI/s400/DSC00074.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ISO2000 shot, very clean. I have the High ISO NR set to LOW</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Vx96zYlPWk/UAKs5abooJI/AAAAAAAAAS4/_5i818XVYsE/s1600/DSC00085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Vx96zYlPWk/UAKs5abooJI/AAAAAAAAAS4/_5i818XVYsE/s200/DSC00085.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Scene</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SNhOyd4xo4c/UAKs6q-gP9I/AAAAAAAAATA/-WNHEmWowek/s1600/DSC00086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SNhOyd4xo4c/UAKs6q-gP9I/AAAAAAAAATA/-WNHEmWowek/s200/DSC00086.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Using HDR with 6.0EV brings out the details in the shadow</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mglb8KTLB1c/UAKs9uYtHGI/AAAAAAAAATU/RXQ3BXelmkg/s1600/DSC00102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="90" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mglb8KTLB1c/UAKs9uYtHGI/AAAAAAAAATU/RXQ3BXelmkg/s400/DSC00102.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RX100 Sweep Panorama</td></tr>
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<br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-4839918980677393780?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-20566795838714225802012-07-15T11:56:00.001+10:002012-07-15T11:56:55.173+10:002012-07-15T11:56:55.173+10:00Sony RX100 - Part 3 (Sample Photos - Portrait)<div style="text-align: justify;">
Photos are taken using JPG as Lightroom 4.1 still cannot read the RX100 RAW files. Creative Style set to "Standard" and Aperture Priority-Mode.<br />
No enhancement done except cropping and watermarked.<br />
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The RX100's shallow DOF allows you to take great portrait pictures and apply effects on it. Most cameras would only allow you to do this with Mirrorless Interchangeable Lenses or a DSLR.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3Lk4Teu1QE/UAIbp3DySdI/AAAAAAAAARY/cV8WSMv35Dw/s1600/DSC00021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3Lk4Teu1QE/UAIbp3DySdI/AAAAAAAAARY/cV8WSMv35Dw/s400/DSC00021.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1/30 @ f/1.8, ISO800</td></tr>
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The RX100 allows you to edit your photos in-camera. At the moment there are only two options available, Watercolor and Illustration (Low,Mid,High). I wish future firmware updates would add a B&W option.</div>
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The Watercolor Effect, the RX100 does a superb job on applying this effect especially that there is a face involved. I can't wait to try this on a Landscape photo with plenty of colours.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-brVPjBtfh4Y/UAIbrwxACGI/AAAAAAAAARk/Eii9MmA3h1I/s1600/DSC00051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-brVPjBtfh4Y/UAIbrwxACGI/AAAAAAAAARk/Eii9MmA3h1I/s320/DSC00051.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watercolor Effect</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fTd7Md12kSg/UAIgQD2B8hI/AAAAAAAAASA/ww3h8hT2FaM/s1600/watercolor_100.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fTd7Md12kSg/UAIgQD2B8hI/AAAAAAAAASA/ww3h8hT2FaM/s200/watercolor_100.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% crop</td></tr>
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The Illustration Effect, you actually have 3 options when applying this effect. The highest option shows good constraint on the RX100 side as it didn't turn the whole photo into a comic-like drawing.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSMM7bljDFU/UAIbqxW7K_I/AAAAAAAAARc/neKLa8fZLjs/s1600/DSC00022-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSMM7bljDFU/UAIbqxW7K_I/AAAAAAAAARc/neKLa8fZLjs/s320/DSC00022-2.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1/30 @ f/1.8, ISO640</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eic2PLU3Ac4/UAIbtFK3j9I/AAAAAAAAARs/bzAidbdSpf4/s1600/DSC00052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eic2PLU3Ac4/UAIbtFK3j9I/AAAAAAAAARs/bzAidbdSpf4/s320/DSC00052.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Illustration Effect : High</td></tr>
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</tbody></table><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-2056679583871422580?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-35979856737581390392012-07-13T15:22:00.000+10:002012-07-13T15:22:44.427+10:002012-07-13T15:22:44.427+10:00Minolta 58 vs Voigtlander 58I recently got a Voigtlander SLII 58/1.4 Nikon mount but converted to A-Mount using Leitax adapters. The Voigtlander lens retails around $499.00 USD (Nikon Mount) and instead of modifying the mount, you can just buy a direct Nikon-to-NEX adapter. The only reason I went with a chipped mount was so that the aperture value will be recorded on the EXIF but it doesn't on the LA-EA2 adapter.<br />
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Here's what it looks like on the NEX-7 with the LA-EA2 adapter<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nLyn6Ts8skg/T_-wYm_A70I/AAAAAAAAARE/wHlUADpq_Eg/s1600/WP_000019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nLyn6Ts8skg/T_-wYm_A70I/AAAAAAAAARE/wHlUADpq_Eg/s320/WP_000019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Both are manual focus lenses and require an adapter. The MD-NEX adapter were used on the Minolta MD 58/1.4 and the LA-EA2 adapter on the Voigtlander 58/1.4. Photos were lighted using 2 x 125W on both sides. No post processing was done except cropping. <br />
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And since I already have a Minolta 58/1.4, might as well see how this two lens compare.<br />
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Camera settings used were JPG - Standard, Neutral Picture Style, ISO100.</div><br />
DISCLAIMER:<br />
<ol><li><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is not a scientific test and is purely based on what I personally look for in a lens. The other reason I am doing this test is to see which one has to go.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">And since its been cold and wet the past few weeks, the shots were taken indoors. Will be doing an outside shoot for comparison</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">The reason for different field of view is because both lenses are focus using their MFD (Minimum Focusing Distance)</span></li>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mhnk2aMS2YI/T9Y6Nvm_kKI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/wDJkO8FJcbA/s1600/f14_md.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="138" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mhnk2aMS2YI/T9Y6Nvm_kKI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/wDJkO8FJcbA/s200/f14_md.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minolta MD 58 @ f1.4</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wp_B0voxUtM/T9Y6O-Q0nBI/AAAAAAAAAPU/17cR4CqotNM/s1600/f14_voit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wp_B0voxUtM/T9Y6O-Q0nBI/AAAAAAAAAPU/17cR4CqotNM/s200/f14_voit.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Voigtlander 58 @ f1.4</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sNX9aWIueV8/T_OJ2JECOtI/AAAAAAAAAPs/LyH0fnp-P70/s1600/f28_md.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sNX9aWIueV8/T_OJ2JECOtI/AAAAAAAAAPs/LyH0fnp-P70/s200/f28_md.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minolta MD 58 @ f2.8</td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DSFtaChFRqw/T_OJ3ZAeGMI/AAAAAAAAAPw/OuxH-sGamMI/s1600/f28_voit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DSFtaChFRqw/T_OJ3ZAeGMI/AAAAAAAAAPw/OuxH-sGamMI/s200/f28_voit.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Voigtlander 58 @ f2.8</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">The bokeh is clearly 'creamier' on the Voigtlander. The Minolta MD 58/1.4 can still hold its own despite the fact that its a 20+ year old lens with no special coating that are used on newer lenses.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Overall I am happy with the Voigtlander output but I will soon change it back to it's native mount and use a Nikon-to-NEX adapter instead as the LA-EA2 adapter makes it a bulky combination. How I wish I didn't sell my LA-EA1 adapter.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Using the NEX-7 with either lens really shows the resolving power of the 24mp CMOS sensor that Sony incorporated on the camera.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you are looking for a f/1.4 lens, I would recommend the Voigtlander if you are after the creamier bokeh, the price is a bit on the high-end. If you already own a Minolta 50/1.4 AF or the Sony 50/1.4 then these two lenses would be more useful with the LA-EA2 as they both auto-focuses and render almost similar bokeh.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-3597985673758139039?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-91039136506757760922012-07-12T00:05:00.002+10:002012-07-12T00:05:50.137+10:002012-07-12T00:05:50.137+10:00Sony Cybershot RX100 - Part 2 (Initial Impression)<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've only had the camera for about 10-hours and shot with it about 2-hours today. I will be using the camera extensively this weekend and will post the pics taken afterwards.</div>
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Handling</span></b></u></div>
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Being used to holding the NEX-7 with its grip has me fumbling around on how to steadily hold the RX100. Basically you support the camera around the lens (where you have the function ring). That's the way I do it as I find it hard to shoot using one hand only.</div>
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If you place your left index finger on the left side of the camera you end up holding down the flash. This is the same 'issue' as with the HX20 and other high-end Cybershot cameras.<br />
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Pressing the 'Playback' button on the camera (while it is off), turns on the camera but not for shooting but only for viewing photos / videos recorded. But the only way to turn the camera off is to press the On/Off switch twice!</div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Menu System</span></u></b></div>
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The menu is very similar to any Alpha SLT/SLR or NEX cameras, user-friendly and intuitive. Although there are some settings that I wish are also on the NEX-7. I will only list the setting that I think should be on the NEX as well. The rest are pretty standard settings.</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Aspect Ratio. The RX100 allows you to choose up to 4 aspect ratio. They are 3:2, 4:3, 16:9 and 1:1. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Auto ISO, you can set the lower limit to ISO125 and the upper limit to ISO6400</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">ISO AUTO uses the Multi Frame Noise Reduction algorithm of the camera where it takes multiple shots (around 4-shots) and then gives you a 'cleaner image'. ONLY WORKS IN JPEG.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Memory Recall. This allows you to save up to 3 user defined settings that you can easily access without having to go through the menu system and setup each setting. The newer Cybershots have this functionality and yet even the high-end NEX camera doesn't have it. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Steadyshot. These setting can be found on both the Still section and the Movie Setting section of the menu. On the Movie section, you have 3 options; Active, Standard or Off. On the Still section, you only have On and Off.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Drop Sensor. This function has been carried over from the Handycam where the camera detects if it is falling to protect the internal harddrive, maybe it also locks the OSS / lens retract to its housing as well.</li>
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the annoying stuff...</div>
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<ol>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The Audio Signals setting, well what it does is it turns AF confirmation sound</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Picture Effect. Found on two sections of the Menu, one on the Still Shooting Menu and the other on the Playback Menu. The difference between the two is that on the Still Shooting Menu, it gives you the normal Toy, Rich B&W, Miniature, etc setting while the one on the Playback Menu allows you to apply either ILLUSTRATION or WATERCOLOR Effect on any photos taken (JPG ONLY).</li>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-9103913650675776092?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-46796789235614216832012-07-12T00:05:00.001+10:002012-07-12T00:05:30.213+10:002012-07-12T00:05:30.213+10:00Sony Cybershot RX100 - Part 1<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being a long time NEX-7 user, one of its (personally) disadvantage is that it is not pocket-able, I've decided that I need a P&S camera that I can bring with me any-time and anywhere. After much debate on whether to get the new <a href="https://www.sony.com.au/product/dsc-hx20v"><span style="color: orange;">Sony Cybershot HX20</span></a>, I've opted to go with the recently announced <a href="https://www.sony.com.au/product/dsc-rx100" style="color: orange;">Sony RX100</a>.<span style="color: orange;"> </span>The 1-inch sensor and the shallow DOF are the main reason why I chose the RX100.<br />
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The RX100 is a whole new line of Cybershot cameras and it fills the gap between the Cybershot and the NEX cameras.<span style="color: orange;"> </span></div>
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Here is the NEX-7 and the RX100 camera side-by-side for comparison.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iygI2xn2eH8/T_1mCedWEyI/AAAAAAAAAQU/iVWu2ydNETs/s1600/IMG-20120711-00241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iygI2xn2eH8/T_1mCedWEyI/AAAAAAAAAQU/iVWu2ydNETs/s400/IMG-20120711-00241.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7BJb2hn5FMc/T_1mn8X8MFI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/z2Iv-dOkjdo/s1600/IMG-20120711-00240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7BJb2hn5FMc/T_1mn8X8MFI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/z2Iv-dOkjdo/s320/IMG-20120711-00240.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
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What's IN THE BOX: The box does not include any CD, PlayMemories Home is on the camera (which installs on your PC once you plug it in). PlayMemories Home is not compatible with MAC. I hope Sony will address this issue. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ictG5bhIGhQ/T_1mDfIkgFI/AAAAAAAAAQY/GrZSuIPSSqI/s1600/_DSC1767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ictG5bhIGhQ/T_1mDfIkgFI/AAAAAAAAAQY/GrZSuIPSSqI/s320/_DSC1767.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iOwynSk_RtA/T_1mERwZ8fI/AAAAAAAAAQg/-mpCp_c1bT8/s1600/_DSC1769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iOwynSk_RtA/T_1mERwZ8fI/AAAAAAAAAQg/-mpCp_c1bT8/s320/_DSC1769.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Contents: 1 x Power Adapter, 1 x Cord plug (depending on your country), 2 x small lanyard (to connect it to a neck strap (not included)), 1 x wrist strap, 1 x USB cable (to be used for charging either direct on PC or using the Power Adapter).<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-edWS7nijMMM/T_1mFntIgaI/AAAAAAAAAQs/rOS-EWYn-Fo/s1600/_DSC1770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-edWS7nijMMM/T_1mFntIgaI/AAAAAAAAAQs/rOS-EWYn-Fo/s320/_DSC1770.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-4679678923561421683?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-56187400580573702752012-05-15T13:54:00.003+10:002012-05-15T13:54:51.542+10:002012-05-15T13:54:51.542+10:00A Bad Case of CA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've read some reviews about the Zeiss 24/1.8 having some CA (Chromatic Aberration) issues at wide open but mostly on the corners and not smack in the middle. I've had some time to finally use the lens after having it since January and I am a bit disappointed specially for the price I paid for it.<br />
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Before writing this blog, I sent a copy of the photos to Sony AU for their technical support team to have a look at. In fairness, they did say that until they can test it themselves. Anyway the lens has been sent to their Service Centre for testing. <span style="color: orange; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><u>UPDATE: I was informed that they will just replace the lens. I don't know why but it is another 2 week wait.</u></b></span><br />
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I must admit that the lighting conditions are tricky and I probably should not be shooting at wide open but I never expected this from a $1200 USD lens!<br />
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Here are the photos I am talking about and you be the judge.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xad37xlFPz4/T6ZK1l-KJMI/AAAAAAAAAOk/ui37hETYZlE/s1600/CA_3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xad37xlFPz4/T6ZK1l-KJMI/AAAAAAAAAOk/ui37hETYZlE/s400/CA_3.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% crop on top right corner of image below</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eCMmoqUtSc0/T6ZK3OKt0lI/AAAAAAAAAOs/uf3P2KaKAs0/s1600/CA_3_scene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eCMmoqUtSc0/T6ZK3OKt0lI/AAAAAAAAAOs/uf3P2KaKAs0/s640/CA_3_scene.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hi1hY9AnUzI/T6ZK7kVxPtI/AAAAAAAAAO0/wGZJw7r1tSs/s1600/CA_4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hi1hY9AnUzI/T6ZK7kVxPtI/AAAAAAAAAO0/wGZJw7r1tSs/s400/CA_4.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% crop centre of image below</td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FmJ_DNRH0hk/T6ZK8-7EuDI/AAAAAAAAAO8/1yx0Rr02ad8/s1600/CA_4_scene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FmJ_DNRH0hk/T6ZK8-7EuDI/AAAAAAAAAO8/1yx0Rr02ad8/s640/CA_4_scene.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-5618740058057370275?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-8763656655499354432012-04-14T08:17:00.001+10:002012-04-14T08:17:05.269+10:002012-04-14T08:17:05.269+10:00SLRMagic Bokehmorphic Lens for NEX<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>First, let me just say a BIG THANK YOU to <a href="http://www.slrmagic.com/" target="_blank">SLR Magic</a> for the very professional customer service experience. I did not receive the first delivery of my lens and upon informing them, they called me up (overseas call) and told me that they will be shipping a new one (express) to my hotel as I was in a work conference. This kind of service are rare these days so keep it up guys!</i><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I've always been fascinated by those beautiful bokeh shapes that you see in photos. Most of them are achieved by simple DIY projects but since I really don't have the time to do those kind of projects (i'm just lazy!) because of family and work commitments. I pre-ordered once I've heard that SLR Magic is releasing this lens. Price is affordable and the build quality is excellent. </span><span style="text-align: justify;">I own the SLR Magic 35/1.7 lens and comparing the two, the 28mm Bokehmorphic lens is a better built compared to their 35/1.7. It is thicker compared to the Sony SEL 16/2.8 lens. </span><br />
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What's in the box?</h4>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jtvIgRBUtv4/T4iZ5idu3CI/AAAAAAAAAOI/e7um8ta2Bv0/s1600/_DSC7958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jtvIgRBUtv4/T4iZ5idu3CI/AAAAAAAAAOI/e7um8ta2Bv0/s200/_DSC7958.jpg" width="171" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iU5dx4MOhyc/T3EPyz0khxI/AAAAAAAAAM4/-4zwbbRUKOA/s1600/IMG-20120326-00150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iU5dx4MOhyc/T3EPyz0khxI/AAAAAAAAAM4/-4zwbbRUKOA/s200/IMG-20120326-00150.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<u style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">NOTE: Missing rubber colour bands. My copy didn't contain one but SLR Magic has sent one already so I should be receiving it soon.</span></u></div>
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<h4>
Sample Photos using the Shapes Bokeh</h4>
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It lacks a bit of contrast for my taste. I had to boost the contrast +15 on these pics on Lightroom 4.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tUM-_4dEGiw/T4iL2b_SCtI/AAAAAAAAANo/fv5z_8ZPhtU/s1600/_DSC0485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tUM-_4dEGiw/T4iL2b_SCtI/AAAAAAAAANo/fv5z_8ZPhtU/s400/_DSC0485.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heart-shape Bokeh</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7D2ypyb7hdI/T4iL6UP6BJI/AAAAAAAAANw/aEsIvkFFU-4/s1600/_DSC0486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7D2ypyb7hdI/T4iL6UP6BJI/AAAAAAAAANw/aEsIvkFFU-4/s400/_DSC0486.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun-shape Bokeh</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--DEA9DFb0Ss/T4iL-dGGntI/AAAAAAAAAN4/lypYc77tRrE/s1600/_DSC0487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--DEA9DFb0Ss/T4iL-dGGntI/AAAAAAAAAN4/lypYc77tRrE/s400/_DSC0487.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Star-shape Bokeh</td></tr>
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<h4>
As a Normal Lens</h4>
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One of the choices you have is a 'circle-shape' which should mimic the bokeh shapes of normal lenses. Here's a couple of shots taken with it. I must admit that centre portion of the image, sharpness is acceptable. I actually like the 'character' that this lens produce especially when using it with the NEX-7 Rich B&W Picture style. These two pics are unedited!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JGMWjgEL7kw/T4iLzMtUZtI/AAAAAAAAANg/VZUlH6anH9Y/s1600/_DSC0341.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JGMWjgEL7kw/T4iLzMtUZtI/AAAAAAAAANg/VZUlH6anH9Y/s400/_DSC0341.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bh-3zES8QZw/T4iLwN-hCgI/AAAAAAAAANY/6SHC8GfqMSY/s1600/_DSC0340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bh-3zES8QZw/T4iLwN-hCgI/AAAAAAAAANY/6SHC8GfqMSY/s400/_DSC0340.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rich B&W of the NEX-7</td></tr>
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<h4>
CONCLUSION</h4>
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I enjoy using this lens. Price-wise it is affordable. Like previously mentioned, it can be used as a normal lens and with Sony NEX's Focus Peaking, it is easy to nail the focus. Trying to get the bokeh to appear will teach you where to place the subject against the background.</div>
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This lens might even come in handy if you are shooting weddings, birthdays or any family event. Would you use it for paid professional work, why not? I'm sure couples would love to see a background of 'heart-shape' lights during the reception or church shots.</div>
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If you are looking for a 28mm FL lens and at the same time you have an option to change the bokehshape (without adding anything in front of the lens) then this is for you.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-876365665549935443?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-63504144493788098182012-03-15T12:42:00.002+11:002012-03-15T12:42:26.840+11:002012-03-15T12:42:26.840+11:00Sony's By Pixel Super Resolution<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of the features that I like about the newly announced Sony A57 is the Clear Image Zoom. Sony mentioned that they are using a new technology the called By Pixel Super Resolution being used on their Cybershot lines.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">"By analyzing images pixel-by-pixel (and the correlation between adjacent pixels), patterns are categorised via a Sony-developed database, with image processing optimised accordingly"</span> - Sony</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmBJ6dzjd5o/T2FH76wKQQI/AAAAAAAAAMU/FcG13rewvrU/s1600/by_pixel_super.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmBJ6dzjd5o/T2FH76wKQQI/AAAAAAAAAMU/FcG13rewvrU/s400/by_pixel_super.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here is a sample video showing how it works :</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://0.gvt0.com/vi/TkSoV_kjSKg/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TkSoV_kjSKg&fs=1&source=uds" />
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<embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TkSoV_kjSKg&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-6350414449378809818?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-20016500124345285322012-03-13T15:45:00.001+11:002012-03-13T15:45:12.197+11:002012-03-13T15:45:12.197+11:00Sony announces A57<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sony just announced the upgrade to its Sony A55, the Sony A57. This model uses the same sensor as the A65/A77 in a 16-megapixel size. Looks very similar to the A65. Differences are the EVF is better on the A55 but lesser pixel compared to the A65/A77. LCD is standard-tilt unlike the 3-way tilt LCD seen on the A77. No GPS and Top LCD display. All in all this will be a better option if you cannot afford the A65/A77.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Main Features:</span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">l<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">12
fps continuous shooting* with Full-time Continuous AF<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-outline-level: 1; mso-para-margin-left: 0gd; text-align: left; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">l<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">15-point
AF system with 3 cross sensors <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-outline-level: 1; mso-para-margin-left: 0gd; text-align: left; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">l<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">AVCHD
Ver. 2.0 (Progressive) Full HD Movie at 60p (50p)**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-outline-level: 1; mso-para-margin-left: 0gd; text-align: left; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">l<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">World’s
first*** Auto Portrait Framing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-outline-level: 1; mso-para-margin-left: 0gd; text-align: left; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">l<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Clear
Image Zoom<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-outline-level: 1; mso-para-margin-left: 0gd; text-align: left; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">l<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">ISO
100-16000 sensitivity<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-outline-level: 1; mso-para-margin-left: 0gd; text-align: left; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">l<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">New
Tru-Finder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-outline-level: 1; text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8.0pt;">* In
Tele-zoom Continuous Advance Priority AE mode<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8.0pt;">** NTSC
(PAL)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8.0pt;">*** As of
December 2011. Among interchangeable-lens digital cameras.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Video Presentation of the Sony A57</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://2.gvt0.com/vi/Xj7zeanvDNo/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Xj7zeanvDNo&fs=1&source=uds" />
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<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-outline-level: 1; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-2001650012434528532?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-85814577499448634022012-03-05T11:28:00.001+11:002012-03-05T11:28:51.603+11:002012-03-05T11:28:51.603+11:00NEX-5N FW 1.01 AF Speed<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here is a video by (mirrorlessreviews) showing the AF speed improvement of the recently released firmware for the NEX-5N. I think it has the same AF speed now as the NEX-7. Kudos to Sony for continuing to improve on the NEX cameras. I just hope they will also release some firmware for the NEX-C3, NEX-3, NEX-5 cameras.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://2.gvt0.com/vi/s9On0P0Gn_I/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/s9On0P0Gn_I&fs=1&source=uds" />
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<br />
Hoping that a firmware is also in the works for the NEX-7.<br /><br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-8581457749944863402?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-27342537997529015132012-03-05T00:47:00.001+11:002012-03-10T08:30:13.718+11:002012-03-10T08:30:13.718+11:00More Zeiss 24/1.8 sample images<div style="text-align: justify;">
More pics taken with the Zeiss 24/1.8 on NEX-5. I am working on the review of the NEX-7 and this lens. My next post will be mostly on the NEX-7 and the Zeiss 24/1.8</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nOm9Rtuht0/T1NxQfyO1vI/AAAAAAAAALU/MLsWG3aHUcw/s1600/DSC01757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nOm9Rtuht0/T1NxQfyO1vI/AAAAAAAAALU/MLsWG3aHUcw/s320/DSC01757.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ISO 200 @ f/1.8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ad5YECxGrU/T1NxRUkR0HI/AAAAAAAAALc/9owYI-ttQYo/s1600/DSC01821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ad5YECxGrU/T1NxRUkR0HI/AAAAAAAAALc/9owYI-ttQYo/s320/DSC01821.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ISO 200 @ f/5.6</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HlE7QF40pq8/T1NxSft8zVI/AAAAAAAAALk/gKzXpm_PrtA/s1600/DSC01827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HlE7QF40pq8/T1NxSft8zVI/AAAAAAAAALk/gKzXpm_PrtA/s320/DSC01827.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ISO 200 @ f/1.8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XF3OmDmCYq8/T1NxTf5SlfI/AAAAAAAAALs/MP3fCnG4qPI/s1600/DSC01832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XF3OmDmCYq8/T1NxTf5SlfI/AAAAAAAAALs/MP3fCnG4qPI/s320/DSC01832.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ISO 200 @ f/2.8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tHi0_Kd0ZE/T1NxUVnccDI/AAAAAAAAAL0/0kSmRV6y0TA/s1600/DSC01844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tHi0_Kd0ZE/T1NxUVnccDI/AAAAAAAAAL0/0kSmRV6y0TA/s320/DSC01844.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ISO 200 @ f/5.6</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T-q9mb5W8Es/T1p2Nhvd2lI/AAAAAAAAAL8/mWYaBLlXquM/s1600/DSC01752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T-q9mb5W8Es/T1p2Nhvd2lI/AAAAAAAAAL8/mWYaBLlXquM/s320/DSC01752.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ISO 100 @ f/1.8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JIvWk5WqESk/T1p2OryyAvI/AAAAAAAAAMA/Mocc6onCOTo/s1600/_DSC0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JIvWk5WqESk/T1p2OryyAvI/AAAAAAAAAMA/Mocc6onCOTo/s320/_DSC0056.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SILVER NEX-5 + Zeiss 24</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-2734253799752901513?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-31261817816156675472012-02-29T17:12:00.001+11:002012-02-29T17:15:18.065+11:002012-02-29T17:15:18.065+11:00NEX 24/1.8 Zeiss on NEX-5 Review<div style="text-align: justify;">
Got my new NEX lens, the NEX Zeiss 24/1.8. Technical specifications of the lens can be found <a href="http://www.sony.com.au/product/sel24f18z">here</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The thing that surprised me the most was the filter size was only 49mm. That's good news for me, I can use my existing filters that I used on my NEX 16mm lens and NEX 18-55 kit lens. This lens is not cheap because of the word 'Zeiss' but initial impression is that it's worth every penny. At f/1.8, it is sharp and the bokeh is creamy much like the Sony 135/1.8 (A-Mount). </div>
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Here are some sample shots of the NEX 24/1.8 on the NEX-5<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8LKd8DAuSko/T0IptrnCdCI/AAAAAAAAAKw/i3pwI37b7J8/s1600/DSC01712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8LKd8DAuSko/T0IptrnCdCI/AAAAAAAAAKw/i3pwI37b7J8/s320/DSC01712.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">@ f/1.8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oR_buV59nQ/T0Ipu_IOq0I/AAAAAAAAAK4/0zrMEN2p4fQ/s1600/DSC01713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oR_buV59nQ/T0Ipu_IOq0I/AAAAAAAAAK4/0zrMEN2p4fQ/s320/DSC01713.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">@ f/5.6</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
UPDATE : I got hold of my NEX-7 which I will do a full review with this lens. I will also be posting more sample shots of the Zeiss 24/1.8.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-3126181781615667547?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-85122675460495083832011-12-25T01:09:00.001+11:002011-12-25T01:09:58.735+11:002011-12-25T01:09:58.735+11:00<div style="text-align: justify;">
Just want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It's been a really busy December for me and now I'm on holiday and the internet is very unreliable where I am. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next year will be a very busy year for Sony's NEX camera's with lens releases left-and-right if the rumoured 6-lens releases for 2012 is true. All I know is that there will be a G-lens.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have also gotten my delivery of NEX-7 so when I come back from holiday, it will be put through it's phases.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Again, wishing you all the best this coming 2012 and keep shooting! Here's hoping to another Camera of the Year from Sony. Let's make it a hat-trick Sony!</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-8512267546049508383?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-62180783095139184482011-11-07T09:01:00.002+11:002011-11-07T09:01:00.106+11:002011-11-07T09:01:00.106+11:00Sony's 'Tough Year'<div style="text-align: justify;">
2011 is supposed to be the Year of the Alpha! Sony is the only camera manufacturer that launched more cameras than their competitors.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The A65/A77, NEX5N/NEX-7. These cameras are a class on their own. I am guessing that these aggressive approach of Sony is paying off. I have never heard so much buzz (good and bad) on the internet forums that I follow. Finally, Sony can take another chunk at the market share of Canon and Nikon and maybe even Pentax.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yQuyiULFHNQ/TrZ9NWP_aGI/AAAAAAAAAIY/9f00f0gX_Ac/s1600/322073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="129" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yQuyiULFHNQ/TrZ9NWP_aGI/AAAAAAAAAIY/9f00f0gX_Ac/s200/322073.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo taken from Bangkok Post</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
BUT nature doesn't want to cooperate with Sony. First there was the Tsunami disaster. I don't know if this has delayed the release of these cameras but I am certain it has an effect one way or another. Then the final blow, typhoons and monsoon rain. Sony manufactures their NEX cameras from Thailand and the flooding crisis have basically wiped-out the whole Sony Factory. We are not just talking about finished cameras, ready to be shipped out. Even the machineries that makes them are basically gone. Just look at the picture below; I bet underneath all that water are billions of dollars worth of electronic equipment. Especially when the holiday season is just a month away, imagine all the sales / promotions that Sony will miss because there are no confirmed delivery dates yet for the NEX-7. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sony's competitors on the other hand have now got time on their hand to manufacture/launch a rival product. Competition is good for consumers and I for one would want fierce competition to drive prices below, but just this once, I was really hoping that Sony will be very close to Canon and Nikon when it comes to market share.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The most important thing for now is that we get those people back to work and hope that Thailand can recover from this disaster in the earliest time. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2012 is just around the corner and hopefully this will be a good year for Sony and all of us.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-6218078309513918448?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-356189486581617642011-11-06T22:50:00.000+11:002011-11-06T22:50:40.673+11:002011-11-06T22:50:40.673+11:00Video 'Cropping' on NEX-5N<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been doing a lot of googling to find out if someone has posted an approximate value on how much the video gets cropped on the NEX / SLT cameras. Even emailed Sony Australia but because of the current situation (Thailand flooding) and an all-out marketing campaign on the current SLT/NEX cameras, no one has gotten back to me. So I tried doing my own test using my NEX-5. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I just saw this on the manual of the NEX-5N. It is true then that what you see isn't what you get when you shoot videos using the NEX-5N. Is this a bad feature? No, it is not. I think one of the reason this is happening is to keep the aspect ration to 16:9. In fact, NEX users has the advantage of actually seeing the grid where the video would fit compared to the SLT cameras. I have friends who have tested it on their A55 and it does happen but it doesn't have any of the 'corner' markings compared to the NEX-5N.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-swXsC0pHSTc/TrZzbpsi28I/AAAAAAAAAIQ/nJn6Adf-XdQ/s1600/nex-5n+grid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="99" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-swXsC0pHSTc/TrZzbpsi28I/AAAAAAAAAIQ/nJn6Adf-XdQ/s320/nex-5n+grid.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NEX-5N User Manual</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, next time you are shooting videos with your NEX, be sure to check the grid first so you know that the scene you want to capture is all in the frame.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-35618948658161764?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-78220333737506362082011-10-17T21:14:00.001+11:002011-10-19T12:30:13.499+11:002011-10-19T12:30:13.499+11:00A77 Video Crop?<div style="text-align: justify;">
It has been reported that the video of the A77 is actually crop because of the Steady Shot System (Sony's In-Body Stablization System). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There have been varying percentage of crop factor being reported ranging from 15% to 30%. I have emailed Sony Australia asking what is the exact crop factor on the video and I should get an answer within the week.</div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lesnumeriques.com%2Fsony-alpha-77-p309_11585_16.html">LesNumerique</a> (a French website) has reported almost 30% crop factor<br />
<blockquote>
<blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The video capture uses only 10,9x19,4 mm of a sensor measuring 15,7x23,7 mm : with the kit lens 16-50 mm, set at 24 mm we get 31 mm in video.</div>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
How would this affect your video; since the FOV (field of view) does not get refreshed until you hit the 'Movie Record' button then what your seeing on your EVF is not exactly the scene being captured.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The A77 is still the best APS-C DSLR on the market for doing video because of its AF Speed and Sony's Peaking Level. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
NOTE: Apparently, the A33 does the same thing as stated on the Manual (page 81)</div>
<blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The angle of view of movies is narrower than that of still images. After you press the MOVIE button, the camera shows the actual range to be recorded (SLT-A33 only).</div>
</blockquote>
Looks like the Sony A55 is the only DSLT camera not doing any video crop...<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-7822033373750636208?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-48743058654613502722011-10-05T08:17:00.000+11:002011-10-05T08:17:46.397+11:002011-10-05T08:17:46.397+11:00NEX-5N Impressions - Part 2 (Sample Photos)<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sorry for the very late follow up on the NEX-5N impression. I really need to find a way to manage my time properly. Also, it was good timing since Adobe has updated Lightroom to be able to read the NEX-5N RAW file.</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K8lAzmRS604/TotxN476m3I/AAAAAAAAAHc/JUOUzlDT2RI/s1600/DSC00151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K8lAzmRS604/TotxN476m3I/AAAAAAAAAHc/JUOUzlDT2RI/s200/DSC00151.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow the leader!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The week that I had the NEX-5N, we had a very cloudy/windy weather here in Melbourne. My plan was to go on a photo walk with one of my friends but didn't manage to do so because of the '4 seasons in 1 day' weather. Good thing we were invited to a party so I took the camera with me and started shooting. I can't post all the pictures here as much as I want to because I didn't tell them that I will be posting the photos on my blog. Oh well, good thing the ducks were there :)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table><tbody>
<tr>
<td><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Auz_E97pz68/TotxGqrwFqI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/SzLuVwQxlxs/s1600/DSC00139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="116" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Auz_E97pz68/TotxGqrwFqI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/SzLuVwQxlxs/s200/DSC00139.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture Effect - HDR Painting (Heavy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td>
<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bfRpoHcFqbg/TotxI9-C3iI/AAAAAAAAAHU/4IvVOtpsANg/s1600/DSC00140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bfRpoHcFqbg/TotxI9-C3iI/AAAAAAAAAHU/4IvVOtpsANg/s200/DSC00140.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture Effect - HDR Painting (Light)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<a name='more'></a><br />
Taken with the SEL 18-200 lens. These are straight out of camera JPG unless specified.<br />
<br />
<table><tbody>
<tr> <td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aLdDRD6ohIU/ToZHUbZE9NI/AAAAAAAAAG4/cOe-b0IBQVU/s1600/DSC00062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aLdDRD6ohIU/ToZHUbZE9NI/AAAAAAAAAG4/cOe-b0IBQVU/s200/DSC00062.jpg" width="200" /></a></td> <td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PRs_rdcaHqU/ToZHY89P1uI/AAAAAAAAAG8/AoO_x36_iaU/s1600/DSC00064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PRs_rdcaHqU/ToZHY89P1uI/AAAAAAAAAG8/AoO_x36_iaU/s200/DSC00064.jpg" width="200" /></a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VamwJmOR3iA/Totw_MrWEDI/AAAAAAAAAHE/BycCFg_-K7U/s1600/DSC00080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VamwJmOR3iA/Totw_MrWEDI/AAAAAAAAAHE/BycCFg_-K7U/s200/DSC00080.jpg" width="200" /></a></td>
<td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yv2pqRo2I14/TotxMLB8HmI/AAAAAAAAAHY/xdEMB1zdhx4/s1600/DSC00142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yv2pqRo2I14/TotxMLB8HmI/AAAAAAAAAHY/xdEMB1zdhx4/s200/DSC00142.jpg" width="200" /></a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Taken with the Minolta 50/1.4 and LA-EA1 Adapter
<br />
<br />
<table><tbody>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EOstB4FTAvY/TotxA0_hDJI/AAAAAAAAAHI/c0MFp_8GO9U/s1600/DSC00105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EOstB4FTAvY/TotxA0_hDJI/AAAAAAAAAHI/c0MFp_8GO9U/s200/DSC00105.jpg" width="200" /></a></td>
<td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mH8SenDOQxc/TotxCT9-kVI/AAAAAAAAAHM/iNo7pyS5ySk/s1600/DSC00108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mH8SenDOQxc/TotxCT9-kVI/AAAAAAAAAHM/iNo7pyS5ySk/s200/DSC00108.jpg" width="200" /></a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
Here is a sample showing how much detail the NEX-5N sensor has on its RAW File. I want to see how much details are in the shadow. I made the following modification in LR3.5 (exposure +1, Fill Light set to 31). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qEd7wWrViis/Tot21OD9qSI/AAAAAAAAAHk/1tp9wT3oi6M/s1600/DSC00161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qEd7wWrViis/Tot21OD9qSI/AAAAAAAAAHk/1tp9wT3oi6M/s200/DSC00161.jpg" width="200" /></a></td>
<td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZ-FT1nSuMw/Tot24rUnypI/AAAAAAAAAHo/uidogieaNf8/s1600/mod_DSC00161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZ-FT1nSuMw/Tot24rUnypI/AAAAAAAAAHo/uidogieaNf8/s200/mod_DSC00161.jpg" width="200" /></a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div>
Thank you for reading!</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-4874305865461350272?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-16351439443877149122011-09-24T12:51:00.000+10:002011-09-24T12:51:40.121+10:002011-09-24T12:51:40.121+10:00Quick Update: SONY NEX-5N clicking issue<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QOfks9moL4/Tlx2k9HstLI/AAAAAAAAAFI/iRUTJ8aUds4/s1600/NEX5N_wSEL16F28_wSEL1855_BK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QOfks9moL4/Tlx2k9HstLI/AAAAAAAAAFI/iRUTJ8aUds4/s1600/NEX5N_wSEL16F28_wSEL1855_BK.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Just want to share that Sony will provide adjustment to the Sony NEX-5N to reduce the clicking sound when you quickly pan the camera left-to-right or up-and-down while shooting video.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Personally, if you didn't know about this issue, you wouldn't 'complain' about it.
Here is the link to the <a href="http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?news_id=439&mdl=NEX5N"><span style="color: orange;">US Support Site</span></a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Since the NEX-5N hasn't been officially released yet here in Australia maybe the next batch of NEX-5N can have this adjustment done beforehand.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Sony for providing this free adjustment. Too bad that you can only do it while it is still under warranty. I was hoping that since this was a 'defect' of a brand new release they should just cover it irregardless.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-1635143944387714912?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-71145878830440290332011-09-22T23:29:00.002+10:002011-10-02T23:15:01.994+11:002011-10-02T23:15:01.994+11:00Is the Nikon J1/V1 a threat to the NEX?<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sorry I haven't posted the pics and videos of the NEX-5N as scheduled. Work has been taking a lot of my time.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway, I just want to share what I think of the new NIKON mirrorless cameras. Kudos to Nikon for entering the mirrorless market. Hopefully the more manufacturers get into this market segment the better the products will get. I initially jumped to a conclusion that this camera is a 'joke' the minute after the announcement came out. Why only 10MP? and a smaller sensor than micro 4/3rds? and a 2.7x crop factor? Sony has a 24MP APS-C sized sensor (NEX-7). Maybe Nikon doesn't believe that 'bigger is better'.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0rGinr8VYoM/Tns2RcXmLXI/AAAAAAAAAGw/s3dAB7--Eec/s1600/Nikon_V1_BK-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0rGinr8VYoM/Tns2RcXmLXI/AAAAAAAAAGw/s3dAB7--Eec/s1600/Nikon_V1_BK-001.jpg" width="200" /></a></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Q4y66GXDUw/Tns2S-zf_aI/AAAAAAAAAG0/EF3mX9-aT3o/s1600/Nikon_J1_30_110-001.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon V1</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nikon J1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After all the emotions/excitements died down, I re-read <a href="http://www.dpreview.com/news/1109/11092125nikon1handson.asp"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange;">dpreview's initial impression</span></a> initial impression of these cameras that maybe Nikon really is protecting their DSLR line-up. I wonder if Sony is doing the same, the NEX has been outselling the ALPHA line since its introduction and if this trent continues, Sony's flagship interchangeable system will be the NEX!<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sony at the moment is setting the bar when it comes to the mirrorless-interchangeable lens market. Will these new mirrorless cameras eat on the NEX-market or the micro 4/3rds market share? I don't think so. Like the NEX, the native lens lineup is not mature yet. Yes, you can use your VR lenses but same with the NEX, you need an adapter. The controls of the new cameras are so simple that this could be the ultimate 'soccer mom' cameras.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The cameras have some features that I hope will be introduced in the NEX system.<br />
<br /></div>
<ol><ol>
<li>ability to record video and take full-resolution still images without having to stop the video recording</li>
<li>contrast and phase-detect autofocus without having to use the new LA-EA2 adapter.</li>
</ol>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
I will trade the Picture Effect mode / downsize the file to 18Mp / MP4 recording format for these two feature. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For now, I will wait and see what these cameras can really do. It probably will get better (this is their first release). Should Sony be worried? I don't think they should be for the time being. But it should keep them on their toes if they want to retain their market share in the mirrorless segment. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I really hope that Sony will introduce a Full-Frame NEX (with the two feature I listed above). The biggest advantage of Sony with other manufacturers is .. INNOVATION. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now, we wait for Canon!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Please comment below and tell me what you think the NEX should have to stay ahead of the competition.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-7114587883044029033?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-59982149311363157142011-09-15T22:31:00.002+10:002011-10-02T23:13:51.279+11:002011-10-02T23:13:51.279+11:00NEX-5N Impressions - Part 1<div align="justify">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QOfks9moL4/Tlx2k9HstLI/AAAAAAAAAFI/iRUTJ8aUds4/s1600/NEX5N_wSEL16F28_wSEL1855_BK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QOfks9moL4/Tlx2k9HstLI/AAAAAAAAAFI/iRUTJ8aUds4/s200/NEX5N_wSEL16F28_wSEL1855_BK.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I finally got the Sony NEX-5N Test Unit from Sony Australia.
Too bad it came with the kit lens and not with the new Zeiss 24/1.8, SEL 30 Macro or SEL
55–210. I was really hoping that at least the LA-EA2 adapter came with it so I can test the SONY SAL2470CZ lens. Anyway, the camera comes with
Firmware v1.0.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div align="justify">
To give you a bit of a background, I have been using the NEX
since it came out. I have the 3 E-mount lenses that Sony has in the market at
the moment and some old Minolta manual focus lenses, a Carl Zeiss 24–70 A-Mount
lens that I use with the LA-EA1 adapter. I like the NEX because of it's Image
Quality. I am not bothered that it is not pocketable. Personally, the NEX system is portable and suits my shooting style.</div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<div align="justify">
The NEX-5N is the logical upgrade to the NEX-5, I know
there is the NEX-7 but it will be like comparing apples and oranges between the
NEX-5 and NEX-7. I won't be able to cover everything as
Sony requires the camera back ASAP as there are huge requests for testing/review
of the new cameras. I also would not tell you all the technical aspect of the camera, I am more interested in testing/reviewing how each works and what it actually does. Here is a preview of the Sony NEX-5N from <a href="http://www.dpreview.com/previews/sonynex5n/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange;">DPReview</span></a> as they outline the technical specifications of the camera.<br />
<br /></div>
<h4>
LOOKS</h4>
<div align="justify">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-trbWOflLcyc/TnDD1q8GHoI/AAAAAAAAAGo/NYAyL6gXzig/s1600/DSC00138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-trbWOflLcyc/TnDD1q8GHoI/AAAAAAAAAGo/NYAyL6gXzig/s200/DSC00138.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The two cameras look identical side-by-side. The NEX-5N has a
better rubber grip compared to the NEX-5. Only one button has moved, the
'review/play' button. On the NEX-5, this is sitting directly on top but now it
is closer to the 'movie record' button and a bit at the backside. </div>
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It features what Sony calls 'Photo Creativity Touch Interface'.
You can turn them On/Off on the menu if you don't like to use the LCD touch
screen. I am not a big fan of touch screens on cameras as you can 'accidentally'
change a setting without you knowing what it is. Another thing to consider is
how much battery does the Touch Screen uses? I would rather have buttons/dials
if I can shoot more pictures. Besides, how do you protect your LCD screen now?
If you are used to taking pictures with your iPhone, Samsung, HTC touch
smartphones then this should suit you. It is actually fun to use as you can use
your finger to touch the area you want to focus and it even tracks it if the
subject moves.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ibebR_UvZaw/TnDD5-BWn0I/AAAAAAAAAGs/RQs5qUzYaJo/s1600/DSC00139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ibebR_UvZaw/TnDD5-BWn0I/AAAAAAAAAGs/RQs5qUzYaJo/s200/DSC00139.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black NEX-5N and Silver NEX-5</td></tr>
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The other major difference I see is when you lift the LCD
screen. As you can see on the picture, the NEX-5 (near the dial) has a bit of an 'exhaust'
which I think should help with the 'overheating issue' plaguing the NEX system
when shooting video. On the NEX-5N, it is very flat. I will test this
overheating issue with the NEX-5N and see which will overheat first. There is a youtube video out showing that the NEX-5N overheats after about 22+ minutes of shooting video. I<br />
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The NEX-5N also uses the new Smart Accessory Terminal 2. What this means is that you cannot use the FDA-EVS1 (Sony's External Electronic Viewfinder) on the old NEX cameras. But you can use the HVL-F20S (a more powerful flash than the one that comes with the NEX) and the external MIC on the NEW ones. I don't see any physical difference between the old and the new flash, even the contact points seems the same. So it has to be some sort of re-designed circuitry inside that has changed. One of my theory is that it uses a higher voltage than the old NEX cameras and thereby reducing the battery life of the NEX-5N. I will ask Sony why they redesigned the Smart Accessory Terminal and post whatever their answer will be.</div>
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MENU</h4>
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<strong>Picture Effect</strong> – On the NEX-5, this is part of the Shoot
Mode, on the NEX-5N, this has been embedded into the Brightness/Color section of
the Menu. You can easily access this though as you can set it as one of your
'Custom Button'. Personally, I don't like this. Sony could have left it where
it is and then you can assign a more used functionality on one of the 'Custom
Buttons'. The NEX-5N boasts of 11 new Picture Effects (HDR Painting, Soft Focus, Miniature, Rich-Tone Monochrome and Soft High Key). I will post a separate blog entry showing all the Picture Effects of the Sony NEX-5N. I just hope that Sony will also provide a firmware update on the NEX-3, NEX-3C, NEX-5 that includes the new Picture Effects.</div>
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<strong>Custom Settings</strong> – It took a bit of playing around before I
found this. It must be me as I was actually in a bit of a panic trying so hard
to find the one biggest fault the first series NEX cameras have. The NEX-5
allows you to set up 4 quick access functions while the NEX-5N allows up to 6.
This is a huge improvement and the most important thing that you can add on your
Custom Button on the NEX-5N is the AEL (Auto-Exposure Lock) function.</div>
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<strong>Front Curtain Shutter</strong> – This basically reduces the shutter
lag by removing the time to close and then open the shutter to expose the image.
There is one disadvantage though which was stated on the NEX-5N manual.
<u><em>If you shoot at night at high shutter speeds with a large diameter lens
attached, ghosting of blurred area may occur, depending on the subject and
shooting conditions. In such cases, set this item to [Off].</em></u></div>
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<strong>AF Micro Adjust</strong> – This is only available when you have the
LA-EA2 adapter attached to the camera. So I cannot say how accurate it is
because I don't have the adapter yet.</div>
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<strong>Lens Compensation: Shading / Chromatic Aberration /
Distortion</strong> – This should cut-down on the post-processing of
photos. The only options you have are 'Auto' and 'Off'. I wish Sony allowed the saving of lens profile in the NEX-5N and NEX-7 (ala Lightroom Lens Profile). I am not sure but I have to verify this, this seems to only work with Sony's own E-Mount lenses. Does that mean then that everytime there's a new lens, the NEX-5N and NEX-7 will get a firmware update??</div>
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<strong>Face Registration</strong> – This is very useful when you have a
guest of honor / VIP. If you are taking group shots, their face will always be
in focus. I tried shooting my keyboard and it won't register. I will test this
thoroughly as this is a useful function for events. You can store up to 8 faces
and also re-arrange them by priority as you see fit.</div>
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<strong>Object Tracking</strong> – the name says it all! Even if you set
this on the Menu to 'Off'. Touching the screen will automatically enable it and
you will see this 'double-square' on your screen moving around. You can actually
help the tracking by pointing to where the object/subject is if it loses focus. <insert object="" tracking="" video=""></insert></div>
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<strong>Eye-Fi Setup</strong> – Yes the NEX-5N supports Eye-Fi SD Cards. You
will need to insert an Eye-Fi SD Card for the menu to show this option. I don't
have one at the moment so I can't give you much except that it is supported. </div>
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Don't discount the Sony NEX-5N, this is one serious piece of equipment from Sony. And with the NEX-5N being sold almost $400 - $500 less, I would just use that extra money to get the best lens for the NEX system, the SEL24F18CZ. I bet that the NEX-5N and NEX-7 sales will surpass the Sony A65/77 sales. I was actually surprised on what Sony has added / improved in this little camera. Personally, I would buy the NEX-7 as I want a viewfinder and the hot-shoe.</div>
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I will post the sample photos and videos next week after I used the NEX-5N extensively this weekend.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-5998214931136315714?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-70794408755503739572011-09-09T17:05:00.001+10:002011-09-09T17:07:12.843+10:002011-09-09T17:07:12.843+10:00A77 - need for speed!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GmPuI5aaKAY/Tmm6UFMaN9I/AAAAAAAAAGk/GqG1ELRIyiA/s1600/DSC00137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GmPuI5aaKAY/Tmm6UFMaN9I/AAAAAAAAAGk/GqG1ELRIyiA/s1600/DSC00137.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Here is a sample of the A77 in 12fps mode. I didn't bother playing with the other settings as I just picked up the camera and basically just press the shutter because the excitement got the better of me that day.</div>
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I managed to get 18-20 shots in less than half-a-second. I did intentionally stop shooting after that as I was just checking the EVF lag and to me it is just like a 'blink of an eye'. The shutter sound is very muted as there are no slapping mirrors to add the extra noise. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/crisgruba/sets/72157627628777454/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A77 12fps Mode - Flick Gallery</span></b></a><br />
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The 12fps mode in the A77 is a dial setting meaning you don't have to go the menu system. I really need to test it again properly as I want to see what it does on the ISO, aperture and the AF-points it activates. I am assuming it is on Wide but I would definitely prefer if I can select the focus point during the 12fps mode.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-7079440875550373957?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-59040682808690762792011-09-09T07:54:00.002+10:002011-09-09T11:05:18.409+10:002011-09-09T11:05:18.409+10:00NEX-5N Review Soon!<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Hi everyone. Today I got an email confirming that Sony Australia will be sending me the NEX-5N with kit lens to use and write my own review about the NEX-5N. I know that there's has been a lot of reviews already out but what I am planning to do is to actually use the NEX-5N in the real world. I won't test it against test charts or on a controlled environment for this test.</div>
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Hopefully, the shipment arrives tomorrow (Sept. 9) as I have a weekend of parties / calisthenic competitions to test it on.</div>
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I am a bit disappointed though as they will only be sending the kit lens with it. At least I got some good glass (lens) to go with the it. I am planning to use these other lenses SEL 18-200, 50/1.4, 100/2 and the CZ 24-70/2.8 on it. Will be posting pictures / photos, both RAW and JPG files will be available (unedited of course) for you to make your own decision on the IQ / sharpness of the new SONY Sensor.</div>
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Here is the list of lens I will try on the SONY NEX-5N and also on the NEX-5 (firmware v4) to do a side-by-side comparison. I will try and highlight what I think is good about the NEX-5N and what's not. If you are looking to use the SONY NEX-5N on a studio setup, then I can't test that as I only have limited time with the camera and I am more of a natural lighting kind of guy. </div>
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Looking forward to the 5N but more excited on the NEX-7 which should be in my hands a few weeks after that.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-5904068280869076279?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16536336507763646.post-30744664277982833582011-09-04T21:02:00.001+10:002011-10-02T23:28:05.163+11:002011-10-02T23:28:05.163+11:00Snow Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The whole family went up for a day-trip to the snow yesterday. It's a gruelling 3-4 hour bus ride all the way up. But my daughter loves the snow so we made the trip anyway.</div>
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One thing that you need to consider when going up to the snow / ski fields is the kind of gloves you are going to wear. Especially with the NEX where everything is so small. I had to remove my gloves everytime I wanted to take a photo. I was planning to travel light as I know we will be riding chair-lifts and it is a bit hard trying to walk up in the snow. Anyway I ended up with 2 NEX-5 bodies, my old Minolta 12mm Spiratone Fisheye lens, Sony SEL18-55, Sony SEL 18-200, A700, Tamron 17-50. I should really look at the definition of traveling light :) <br />
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Well, I didn't get any 'overheat' issue with the NEX! I guess a wind-chill of almost 2-degrees and temperature of 4-5 degrees works. It works flawlessly even in cold condition and I did get most of my cameras /lenses wet. Did have a hiccup with the A700+Tamron 17-50. The aperture was not responding to any changes and the shutter won't fire. I probably got the contact point a bit wet, so after drying it with a cloth, everythings good again with the A700.</div>
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I will post a thorough review of the Sony SEL18-200 on my next post as it was on my NEX 80% of the time, my other NEX was used by my sister.</div>
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Here are some of the photos taken during the trip. All taken with the NEX-5 and 18-200 lens.</div>
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/16536336507763646-3074466427798283358?l=sonyalphaandnex.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Cris Grubahttps://plus.google.com/114053186956086140937noreply@blogger.com