Sony SLT A35 - Digital Camera Review

Sony SLT-A35

Sony has been avoiding the entry level DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) camera category long enough and with Sony SLT Alpha A35 it is entering the arena. Right from the start, we have to be aware that the model itself is not DSLR at all, but SLT (Single Lens Translucent) as Sony likes to call it. There is no flipping mirror, instead there’s a semi-reflective mirror transmitting 66.66% of light to the CMOS sensor and the rest to a compact electronic display located on cam’s roof. Without digging too deep in technical specs, let’s just say that by this feature you will be able to see how the photo would really look like and not what you see in reality.
Whether this is better or worse, fact is that with this camera you will have a little advantage over the rest of DSLR competition since some features included come from more advanced cameras. It might not be for real pros, but if you are something more than a starter and less than a professional, then this camera just might be the perfect choice for you.

Some of the novelties include continuous fast autofocus and one of the best burst rates compared to other cameras of the same class. Smaller dimensions make the camera compact and are definitely a plus in many situations where bulkier cam bodies can pose a problem. Although the sensor doesn’t receive all of the light received by the lens, the picture quality is not jeopardized.

Some characteristics include:
• Dimensions: 124 x 92 x 85 mm
• 16.2 megapixel
• Sensor: Exmor APS HD (23.5 x 15.6 mm) CMOS
• Anti Dust mechanism
• Lens Mount: Sony A-mount
• ISO sensitivity: Auto, 100 – 25600
• Picture stabilization
• Flash range: 12 m
• 3” (7.5 cm) display, Live View with phase autofocus detection
• Flash compensation +/-2EV in 1/3EV steps
• Video recording – 1920 x 1080 @ 60 & 29.97 fps
1440 x 1080 @ 30 fps
640 x 424 @ 29.97 fps
• Memory card: SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Pro

Duo/Pro-HG Duo

• Connectivity: USB 2.0 HDMI
• Viewfinder: electronic, 1.44 million pixels
• Battery: lithium-io
NP-FW50

Sony SLT-A35 has numerous advantages for what it’s worth purchasing. Image quality is amongst first of those, especially with higher ISO sensitivities. Fast autofocus mode works perfectly in all conditions. Despite its relatively small size, Sony SLT-A35 is ergonomically well designed – holding it will feel natural and you won’t need to worry how to hold it properly. The burst recording speed rate is one of the fastest amongst its class (5.5 fps).
However, Sony Alpha SLT-A35 is not perfect. Depending on the way you would use it, in some cases there’s a problematic flash delay. Most users who buy into these types of cameras won’t notice much, but a finer eye might. Electronic viewfinder is excellent in low light conditions (concerts, parties, theatre) but in conditions with ample light, electronic viewfinder lacks image clarity. And, of course, compared to competition, this model is a bit expensive, but since it’s not real DSLR after all, the price is fine.

All in all, you really get what you pay for – a finer camera than most in its class, but with certain drawbacks and limitations. However, it is definitely recommended if you have a bit more funds to spend, but are not searching for professional camera.