Sony's World's Highest Resolution Full Frame DSLR!

Food bloggers are often asked which camera they use. We also often know what fellow bloggers use for their drool-inducing photos. Whenever we gather to eat, some discussion regarding cameras is bound to pop up. Photography, as much as food, is critical to our blogs. In fact, photography probably reigns supreme, as appetite often has to take a backseat at mealtimes. We even risk food getting cold, while we do our little photoshoot!

So yes, we love cameras. And I count myself lucky to have gotten a sneak preview of the Sony Alpha 900 today. This is one of the most anticipated cameras in recent years. It's a 35mm full-frame DSLR offering a mind-boggling 24.6 megapixels - the highest resolution in the world! That's more megapixels than I know what to do with!

Megapixels alone, of course, aren't everything. Fortunately, there's lots more going in Sony's flagship DSLR camera. Dual BIONZ image processors improve photo quality and speed. They've also enabled in-body image stabilisation (SteadyShot INSIDE), a first for a full-frame camera despite the heavier sensor. This users to enjoy sharp images with wide angle and large aperture lenses, for which in-lens stabilisation is traditionally a challenge. Check out more details in DPreview and a full user review in Imaging Resource.



I only tested the camera for a few precious seconds, so I don't have a full review, nor sample photos to show. But initial impressions - I like the solid build, the powerful 5fps burst, clarity of the 3" LCD, and most of all, the roomy 100% optical viewfinder. It is amazingly clear, and I could see vivid changes in depth of view as I bounced the autofocus around different subjects. Makes my entry-level Canon 400D seem like a toy!

We heard professionals giving their testimonials too. Fashion and celebrities' photographer Mark Law endorsed the quality of photos, ease of use and portability. He said it was a very good package, in all. Only thing he would like to see improved is the speed of the interface, but he says it's not that slow that general users would notice.

Julian W, a nature and wildlife photographer, loves the ultra high resolution (nifty for stockphotos). He also praised the Intelligence Preview function which allows you to set and fine tune image settings (white balance, exposure, etc) in advance, using a preview image.

For all the features, I was expecting a pretty hefty price tag, aimed more at professionals. So I was surprised to hear that it would be below S$4,500! Looks like this camera is targeted at enthusiasts as well. And you won't have to wait long. Sony estimates the Alpha 900 will be available in early October in Singapore.