The Sony Alpha NEX-5N Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens is not a
point-and-shoot and not a DSLR, but it holds its place in the market,
intriguing those who want the flexibility that interchangeable lenses
and numerous manual and creative features can give them, without having
to lug around a huge DSLR body. The body is packaged along with an
18-55mm Sony lens, allowing you to start shooting right from day one.
Size
aside, the Alpha NEX-5N embodies a number of features that make it a
worthy option for any connoisseur of digital cameras. First and foremost
would be the 16.1Mp APS-C CMOS sensor. With 16.1Mp your images will
have lush color and impressive detail. Your options for making enlarged
prints are boundless as well. Sony's Exmor APS HD CMOS technology works
together with the BIONZ image processor for excellent low light
sensitivity and a distinct lack of sensor noise. On the back of the body
is a 3.0" Xtra Fine LCD that boasts Sony's TruBlack screen which
suppresses internal reflections. This LCD also tilts down 45° and up 80°
for framing hard-to-get shots.
In addition to capturing still
images, every Sony NEX junkie longs to let their filmmaker persona out.
Sony's NEX-5N does not disappoint this class of aspiring Spielbergs. The
long standing camera company knows that in addition to versatility in
lens options, along with a small form-factor, the HD video capture is
right up there in importance. Video can be recorded at 1920 x 1080 in a
number of frame rates, including 60p and 24p. The camera also uses the
AVCHD codec for high-quality capture, and the MP4 codec for easy upload
to the Internet. The camera also sports an HDMI output for one-cable
sharing of your favorite videos on the big screen (AKA: your HDTV).
When
it comes to what lenses the NEX-5N takes, Sony made it compatible with
their E-Mount series of smaller, lighter lenses designed specifically
for Alpha compact interchangeable lens cameras. Using optional LA-EA1
and EA2 adapters you can also attach A-Mount lenses to the camera as
well. The LA-EA2 also provides Phase Detection AF as well. The mirror
built-in between the two mounts directs a small portion of light to the
phase detection AF sensor in the bottom of the unit, making this feature
available to you when the adapter is connected.
As for shooting
options and modes, the NEX-5N has a number of them. First up is 10
frames per second shooting, at the camera's full 16.1Mp resolution. This
mode enables great sports and kids photos. Another notable feature is
Photo Creativity Touch. This mode allows you to be creative with your
photos in-camera, right on the LCD screen, in real time. Sweep Panorama
and 3D Sweep Panorama modes allow for capture of scenic vistas and 16:9
(wide angle) shots as panoramas and in wondrous 3D, respectively. Among
the other features you'll find Object Tracking AF, Auto HDR, Intelligent
Auto Focus, iAUTO mode, and many others.
