The Sony Alpha NEX-5N Digital Camera 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.