Sony Digital Camera 4 133 499 11 1 User Manual

Preparing the camera  
Before your operation  
Shooting images  
Using the shooting  
function  
Using the viewing  
function  
Changing your setup  
Viewing images on a  
computer  
Printing images  
Additional information on this product and  
answers to frequently asked questions can be  
found at our Customer Support Website.  
Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera  
Instruction Manual  
DSLR-A300/A350  
Printed using VOC (Volatile Organic  
Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.  
© 2008 Sony Corporation  
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Owner’s Record  
The model and serial numbers are located  
on the bottom.  
Record the serial number in the space  
provided below.  
Refer to these numbers whenever you call  
upon your Sony  
dealer regarding this product.  
Model No. DSLR-A300/A350  
Serial No. __________________________  
WARNING  
To reduce fire or shock hazard, do  
not expose the unit to rain or  
moisture.  
For Customers in the U.S.A.  
This symbol is intended to alert  
the user to the presence of  
uninsulated “dangerous voltage”  
within the product's enclosure  
that may be of sufficient  
magnitude to constitute a risk of  
electric shock to persons.  
This symbol is intended to alert  
the user to the presence of  
important operating and  
maintenance (servicing)  
instructions in the literature  
accompanying the appliance.  
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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS  
For your protection, please read these  
Attachments  
Do not use attachments not recommended  
by the manufacturer, as they may cause  
hazards.  
safety instructions completely before  
operating the appliance, and keep this  
manual for future reference.  
Carefully observe all warnings, precautions  
and instructions on the appliance, or the  
one described in the operating instructions  
and adhere to them.  
Cleaning  
Unplug the set from the wall outlet before  
cleaning or polishing it. Do not use liquid  
cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a cloth  
lightly dampened with water for cleaning  
the exterior of the set.  
Use  
Power Sources  
Installation  
This set should be operated only from the  
type of power source indicated on the  
marking label. If you are not sure of the  
type of electrical power supplied to your  
home, consult your dealer or local power  
company. For those sets designed to  
operate from battery power, or other  
sources, refer to the operating instructions.  
Water and Moisture  
Do not use power-line operated sets near  
water – for example, near a bathtub,  
washbowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a  
wet basement, or near a swimming pool,  
etc.  
Power-Cord Protection  
Polarization  
Route the power cord so that it is not likely  
to be walked on or pinched by items placed  
upon or against them, paying particular  
attention to the plugs, receptacles, and the  
point where the cord exits from the  
appliance.  
This set may be equipped with a polarized  
ac power cord plug (a plug having one  
blade wider than the other).  
This plug will fit into the power outlet only  
one way. This is a safety feature. If you are  
unable to insert the plug fully into the  
outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug  
should still fail to fit, contact your  
electrician to have a suitable outlet  
installed. Do not defeat the safety purpose  
of the polarized plug by forcing it in.  
Accessories  
Do not place the set on an unstable cart,  
stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The set may  
fall, causing serious injury to a child or an  
adult, and serious damage to the set. Use  
only a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table  
recommended by the manufacturer.  
Overloading  
Do not overload wall outlets, extension  
cords or convenience receptacles beyond  
their capacity, since this can result in fire or  
electric shock.  
Ventilation  
The slots and openings in the cabinet are  
provided for necessary ventilation. To  
ensure reliable operation of the set, and to  
protect it from overheating, these slots and  
openings must never be blocked or  
covered.  
Object and Liquid Entry  
Never push objects of any kind into the set  
through openings as they may touch  
dangerous voltage points or short out parts  
that could result in a fire or electric shock.  
Never spill liquid of any kind on the set.  
– Never cover the slots and openings with a  
cloth or other materials.  
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– Never block the slots and openings by  
placing the set on a bed, sofa, rug, or  
other similar surface.  
– Never place the set in a confined space,  
such as a bookcase, or built-in cabinet,  
unless proper ventilation is provided.  
– Do not place the set near or over a  
radiator or heat register, or where it is  
exposed to direct sunlight.  
Refer all servicing to qualified service  
personnel.  
Replacement parts  
When replacement parts are required, be  
sure the service technician has used  
replacement parts specified by the  
manufacturer that have the same  
characteristics as the original parts.  
Unauthorized substitutions may result in  
fire, electric shock, or other hazards.  
Lightning  
For added protection for this set during a  
lightning storm, or when it is left  
unattended and unused for long periods of  
time, unplug it from the wall outlet and  
disconnect the antenna or cable system.  
This will prevent damage to the set due to  
lightning and power-line surges.  
Safety Check  
Upon completion of any service or repairs  
to the set, ask the service technician to  
perform routine safety checks (as specified  
by the manufacturer) to determine that the  
set is in safe operating condition.  
Service  
Damage Requiring Service  
Unplug the set from the wall outlet and  
refer servicing to qualified service  
personnel under the following conditions:  
– When the power cord or plug is damaged  
or frayed.  
– If liquid has been spilled or objects have  
fallen into the set.  
– If the set has been exposed to rain or  
water.  
– If the set has been subject to excessive  
shock by being dropped, or the cabinet  
has been damaged.  
– If the set does not operate normally when  
following the operating instructions.  
Adjust only those controls that are  
specified in the operating instructions.  
Improper adjustment of other controls  
may result in damage and will often  
require extensive work by a qualified  
technician to restore the set to normal  
operation.  
– When the set exhibits a distinct change in  
performance – this indicates a need for  
service.  
Servicing  
Do not attempt to service the set yourself as  
opening or removing covers may expose  
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards.  
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Read this first  
CAUTION  
For Customers in the U.S.A.  
Replace the battery with the specified type  
only. Otherwise, fire or injury may result.  
Do not expose the batteries to excessive  
heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.  
If you have any questions about this  
product, you may call:  
Sony Customer Information Services  
Center  
1-800-222-SONY (7669)  
The number below is for the FCC related  
matters only.  
For Customers in the U.S.A.  
and Canada  
Regulatory Information  
RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION  
Declaration of Conformity  
Trade Name: SONY  
Model No.: DSLR-A300  
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics  
Inc.  
Address:16530 Via Esprillo,  
San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A.  
Telephone No.: 858-942-2230  
BATTERIES  
Lithium-Ion batteries are  
recyclable.  
You can help preserve  
our environment by  
returning your used  
rechargeable batteries to  
the collection and  
recycling location nearest you.  
This device complies with Part 15 of the  
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions: (1) This  
device may not cause harmful  
interference, and (2) this device must  
accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause  
undesired operation.  
For more information regarding recycling  
of rechargeable batteries, call toll free  
1-800-822-8837, or visit http://  
www.rbrc.org/  
Caution: Do not handle damaged or  
leaking Lithium-Ion batteries.  
Battery pack  
Declaration of Conformity  
Trade Name: SONY  
Model No.: DSLR-A350  
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics  
Inc.  
Address:16530 Via Esprillo,  
San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A.  
Telephone No.: 858-942-2230  
This device complies with Part 15 of the  
FCC Rules, Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions:  
(1) This device may not cause harmful  
interference, and (2) this device must  
accept any interference received, including  
interference that may cause undesired  
operation.  
This Class B digital apparatus complies  
with Canadian ICES-003.  
This device complies with Part 15 of the  
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions: (1) This  
device may not cause harmful  
interference, and (2) this device must  
accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause  
undesired operation.  
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CAUTION  
For Customers in Europe  
You are cautioned that any changes or  
modifications not expressly approved in  
this manual could void your authority to  
operate this equipment.  
This product has been tested and found  
compliant with the limits set out in the  
EMC Directive for using connection cables  
shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).  
Note:  
This equipment has been tested and found  
to comply with the limits for a Class B  
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the  
FCC Rules.  
Attention  
The electromagnetic fields at the specific  
frequencies may influence the picture and  
sound of this unit.  
These limits are designed to provide  
reasonable protection against harmful  
interference in a residential installation.  
This equipment generates, uses, and can  
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not  
installed and used in accordance with the  
instructions, may cause harmful  
interference to radio communications.  
However, there is no guarantee that  
interference will not occur in a particular  
installation. If this equipment does cause  
harmful interference to radio or television  
reception, which can be determined by  
turning the equipment off and on, the user  
is encouraged to try to correct the  
interference by one or more of the  
following measures:  
Notice  
If static electricity or electromagnetism  
causes data transfer to discontinue midway  
(fail), restart the application or disconnect  
and connect the communication cable  
(USB, etc.) again.  
Disposal of Old Electrical &  
Electronic Equipment (Applicable in  
the European Union and other  
European countries with separate  
collection systems)  
– Reorient or relocate the receiving  
antenna.  
– Increase the separation between the  
equipment and receiver.  
– Connect the equipment into an outlet  
on a circuit different from that to which  
the receiver is connected.  
– Consult the dealer or an experienced  
radio/TV technician for help.  
This symbol on the product or on its  
packaging indicates that this product shall  
not be treated as household waste. Instead it  
shall be handed over to the applicable  
collection point for the recycling of  
electrical and electronic equipment. By  
ensuring this product is disposed of  
correctly, you will help prevent potential  
negative consequences for the environment  
and human health, which could otherwise  
be caused by inappropriate waste handling  
of this product. The recycling of materials  
will help to conserve natural resources. For  
more detailed information about recycling  
of this product, please contact your local  
Civic Office, your household waste  
The supplied interface cable must be used  
with the equipment in order to comply with  
the limits for a digital device pursuant to  
Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.  
For the State of California,  
USA only  
Perchlorate Material - special handling may  
apply, See  
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/  
perchlorate  
Perchlorate Material: Lithium battery  
contains perchlorate.  
disposal service or the shop where you  
purchased the product.  
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Disposal of waste batteries  
Notice for customers in the  
United Kingdom  
(applicable in the European Union  
and other European countries with  
separate collection systems)  
A moulded plug complying with BS 1363  
is fitted to this equipment for your safety  
and convenience.  
Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to  
be replaced, a fuse of the same rating as the  
supplied one and approved by ASTA or  
BSI to BS 1362, (i.e., marked with an  
mark) must be used.  
or  
This symbol on the battery or on the  
packaging indicates that the battery  
provided with this product shall not be  
treated as household waste.  
By ensuring these batteries are disposed of  
correctly, you will help prevent potentially  
negative consequences for the environment  
and human health which could otherwise be  
caused by inappropriate waste handling of  
the battery. The recycling of the materials  
will help to conserve natural resources.  
In case of products that for safety,  
performance or data integrity reasons  
require a permanent connection with an  
incorporated battery, this battery should be  
replaced by qualified service staff only.  
To ensure that the battery will be treated  
properly, hand over the product at end-of-  
life to the applicable collection point for the  
recycling of electrical and electronic  
equipment.  
For all other batteries, please view the  
section on how to remove the battery from  
the product safely. Hand the battery over to  
the applicable collection point for the  
recycling of waste batteries.  
If the plug supplied with this equipment has  
a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach  
the fuse cover after you change the fuse.  
Never use the plug without the fuse cover.  
If you should lose the fuse cover, please  
contact your nearest Sony service station.  
Notice for the customers in  
the countries applying EU  
Directives  
The manufacturer of this product is Sony  
Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku  
Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan. The Authorized  
Representative for EMC and product safety  
is Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger  
Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany. For  
any service or guarantee matters please  
refer to the addresses given in separate  
service or guarantee documents.  
For more detailed information about  
recycling of this product or battery, please  
contact your local Civic Office, your  
household waste disposal service or the  
shop where you purchased the product.  
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Notes on using your camera  
effect by using the “Pixel mapping”  
Shooting procedure  
• This camera has two modes for shooting:  
the Live view mode using the LCD  
monitor, and the viewfinder mode using  
the viewfinder (OVF).  
• There may be differences between an  
image recorded in Live view mode and  
an image recorded in viewfinder mode,  
such as exposure, white balance, or D-  
range optimizer, depending on the  
method used of metering or the exposure  
mode.  
Black, white, red,  
blue and green  
points  
• In Live view mode, the recorded image  
may be different from the image you  
monitored with the LCD monitor. The  
difference becomes larger in the  
following or other cases:  
– When firing the flash.  
– When shooting a low-intensity subject,  
such as night scenery.  
• Do not hold the camera by taking hold of  
the LCD monitor.  
• Do not expose the camera to direct  
sunlight. If sunlight is focused on a  
nearby object, it may cause a fire. When  
you must place the camera under direct  
sunlight, attach the lens cap.  
– When the difference of the intensity of  
a subject is too large.  
– When attaching a Circular PL Filter.  
• Images may trail across on the LCD  
monitor in a cold location. This is not a  
malfunction. When turning on the camera  
in a cold location, the LCD monitor may  
become temporarily dark. When the  
camera warms up, the monitor will  
function normally.  
• Do not press against the LCD monitor.  
The monitor may be discolored and that  
may cause a malfunction.  
No compensation for contents of the  
recording  
The contents of the recording cannot be  
compensated for if recording or playback is  
not possible due to a malfunction of your  
camera or a memory card, etc.  
Warning on copyright  
Back up recommendation  
To avoid the potential risk of data loss,  
always copy (back up) data to other  
medium.  
Television programs, films, videotapes, and  
other materials may be copyrighted.  
Unauthorized recording of such materials  
may be contrary to the provisions of the  
copyright laws.  
Notes on the LCD monitor and lens  
• The LCD monitor is manufactured using  
extremely high-precision technology so  
over 99.99% of the pixels are operational  
for effective use. However, there may be  
some tiny black points and/or bright  
points (white, red, blue or green in color)  
that constantly appear on the LCD  
The pictures used in this manual  
The photographs used as examples of  
pictures in this manual are reproduced  
images, and are not actual images shot  
using this camera.  
monitor. These points are normal in the  
manufacturing process and do not affect  
the images in any way.  
To deal with such issues that may appear  
in Live view mode, you may reduce the  
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Table of Contents  
............................................................................ 42  
Shooting with a suitable setting for the subject (Scene  
Selection) .................................................................... 50  
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..................................................................................... 56  
............................................................................ 68  
............................................................................ 73  
Adjusting the brightness of the image (Exposure, Flash  
compensation, Metering) ............................................ 83  
............................................................................ 88  
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............................................................................ 95  
.......................................................................... 100  
released...................................................................... 119  
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Preparing the camera  
Checking the accessories supplied  
The number in parentheses indicates the number of pieces.  
• BC-VM10 Battery charger (1)/  
Power cord (mains lead) (1)  
• Eyecup (1) (Attached on the  
camera)  
• CD-ROM (Application Software  
for α camera) (1)  
• Quick Start Guide (1)  
• Instruction Manual (This manual)  
(1)  
• Rechargeable battery pack NP-  
FM500H (1)  
• USB cable (1)  
• Video cable (1)  
• Shoulder strap (1)  
• Eyepiece cover (1)  
• Body cap (1) (Attached on the  
camera)  
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Preparing the battery pack  
When using the camera for the first time, be sure to charge the NP-  
FM500H “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (supplied).  
Charging the battery pack  
The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack can be charged even when it has not  
been fully depleted.  
It can also be used when it has not been fully charged.  
1 Insert the battery pack on the  
battery charger.  
Push the battery pack until it clicks.  
2 Connect the power cord (mains  
lead).  
Light on: Charging  
Light off: Normal charge completed  
One hour after the lamp is turned off: Full  
charge completed  
CHARGE lamp  
To a wall outlet  
(wall socket)  
About charging time  
• Time required to charge a fully depleted battery pack (supplied) at a  
temperature of 25°C (77°F) is as follows.  
Full charge  
Normal charge  
Approx. 235 min.  
Approx. 175 min.  
• The charging time differs depending on the remaining capacity of the  
battery back or charging conditions.  
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• We recommend charging the battery pack in an ambient temperature of  
between 10 to 30°C (50 to 86°F). You may not be able to efficiently  
charge the battery pack outside of this temperature range.  
Notes  
• Connect the battery charger to an easily accessible wall outlet (wall socket) close by.  
• Even if the CHARGE lamp is not lit, the battery charger is not disconnected from the  
AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet (wall socket). If  
some trouble occurs while using the battery charger, immediately shut off the power  
by disconnecting the plug from the wall outlet (wall socket).  
• When charging is finished, disconnect the power cord (mains lead) from the wall  
outlet (wall socket), and remove the battery pack from the battery charger. If you  
leave the charged battery pack on the charger, battery life may be decreased.  
• Do not charge any battery pack other than the “InfoLITHIUM” M series battery  
pack in the battery charger (supplied) with your camera. Batteries other than the  
specified kind may leak, overheat, or explode if you attempt to charge them, posing a  
risk of injury from electrocution and burns.  
• When the CHARGE lamp flashes, this may indicate a battery error or that a battery  
pack other than the specified type have been installed. Check that the battery pack is  
the specified type. If the battery pack is the specified type, remove the battery pack,  
replace it with new one or another one and check if the battery charger operates  
correctly. If the battery charger operates correctly, a battery error may have  
occurred.  
• If the battery charger is dirty, charging may not be performed successfully. Clean the  
battery charger with dry cloth, etc.  
To use your camera abroad — Power sources  
You can use your camera and the battery charger and the AC-VQ900AM  
AC Adaptor/charger (not supplied) in any country or region where the  
power supply is within 100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Use a commercially  
available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the  
wall outlet (wall socket) [b].  
Note  
• Do not use an electronic transformer (travel converter), as this may cause a  
malfunction.  
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Inserting the charged battery pack  
1 While sliding the battery cover  
open lever, open the battery  
cover.  
2 Firmly insert the battery pack all  
the way while pressing the lock  
lever with the tip of the battery.  
Lock lever  
3 Close the battery cover.  
To remove the battery pack  
Turn off the camera and slide the lock  
lever in the direction of the arrow. Be  
careful not to drop the battery pack.  
Lock lever  
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To remove the battery cover  
The battery cover can be removed to  
attach a vertical grip (not supplied).  
To remove the cover, push the lever in  
the direction of the arrow and slide it out.  
To attach the cover, put the knob in the  
hole, pull down the lever, and slide it in.  
To check the remaining battery level  
Set the POWER switch to ON and check the level on the LCD monitor. The  
level is indicated with the percent figures, in addition to the following  
indicators.  
“Battery  
exhausted”  
Battery level  
You cannot shoot  
any more pictures.  
High  
Low  
What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack?  
An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has  
functions for exchanging information related to operating conditions with  
your camera. Using the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack, the remaining  
battery time in percent figures is displayed according to the operating  
conditions of your camera.  
Notes  
• The displayed level may not be correct under certain circumstances.  
• Do not expose the battery pack to water. The battery pack is not water-resistant.  
• Do not leave the battery pack in extremely hot places, such as in a car or under direct  
sunlight.  
Available battery packs  
Use only an NP-FM500H battery pack. Note that the NP-FM55H, NP-  
FM50 and NP-FM30 cannot be used.  
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Effective use of the battery pack  
• Battery performance decreases in low temperature surroundings. So, the  
time that the battery pack can be used is shorter in cold places. We  
recommend the following to ensure longer battery pack use: put the  
battery pack in a pocket close to your body to warm it up, and insert it in  
your camera immediately before you start shooting.  
• The battery pack will run out quickly if you use the flash frequently.  
Battery life  
• The battery life is limited. Battery capacity decreases little by little as you  
use it more and more, and as time passes. If the battery operating time  
seems shortened considerably, a probable cause is that the battery pack  
has reached the end of its life. Buy a new battery pack.  
• The battery life varies according to how it is stored and the operating  
conditions and environment in which each battery pack is used.  
How to store the battery pack  
If the battery pack is not to be used for a long time, fully charge it and then  
fully use it up once a year on your camera before storing the battery pack in  
a dry, cool place to prolong the battery life.  
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Attaching a lens  
1 Remove the body cap from the  
camera and the rear cap from the  
lens.  
Body cap  
Rear cap  
2 Mount the lens by aligning the  
orange index marks on the lens  
and camera.  
Orange index marks  
3 Turn the lens clockwise until it  
clicks into the locked position.  
Notes  
• When attaching a lens, do not press the lens release button.  
• Do not use force when attaching a lens.  
Lens hood  
Using a lens hood is recommended to prevent unnecessary light from  
affecting your images. For attaching, refer to the operating instructions  
supplied with the lens.  
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To remove the lens  
1 Press the lens release button all  
the way in and turn the lens  
counterclockwise until it stops.  
• When changing the lens, quickly  
change the lens away from dusty  
locations so as to keep dust from  
getting inside the camera.  
Lens release button  
2 Replace the cap on the lens and  
attach the body cap to the  
camera.  
• Before you attach the cap, remove dust  
from the cap.  
Note on changing the lens  
When changing the lens, if dust or debris gets inside the camera and lands  
on the surface of the image sensor (the part that acts as the film), it may  
appear on the image, depending on the shooting environment.  
The camera is equipped with an anti-dust function to prevent dust from  
landing on the image sensor. However, quickly change the lens away from  
dusty locations when attaching/removing a lens.  
If dust or debris lands on the image sensor  
Clean the image sensor using [Cleaning mode] in the Setup menu  
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Inserting a memory card  
You can use a CompactFlash card (CF card), Microdrive, or “Memory  
Stick Duo” as a memory card.  
1 Open the memory card cover.  
2 Insert a memory card (not  
supplied) from the terminal side  
(the terminal side has a number  
of small holes) with its label side  
facing toward the LCD monitor.  
Face side with a label  
• For a “Memory Stick Duo” (not  
supplied), insert it in a Memory Stick  
Duo Adaptor for CompactFlash slot  
(not supplied), then insert the adaptor in  
the camera.  
Face side with a label  
3 Close the memory card cover.  
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To remove the memory card  
Check that the access lamp is not lit, then  
open the memory card cover, push down  
the memory card eject lever. After the  
card is ejected a little, pull out the  
memory card.  
Memory card eject  
lever  
Access lamp  
Notes on using memory cards  
• The memory card may be hot just after it has been used for a long time.  
Be careful when you handle it.  
• When the access lamp is lit, do not remove the memory card or the  
battery pack, or turn off the power. The data may be corrupted.  
• Data may be damaged if you place the memory card near strongly-  
magnetized material or use the memory card in a static-prone or  
electrically noisy environment.  
• We recommend backing up important data, such as to a hard disk of a  
computer.  
• When you carry or store the memory card, put it in the case supplied with  
it.  
• Do not expose the memory card to water.  
• Do not touch the terminal section of the memory card with your hand or a  
metal object.  
On the CF card/Microdrive  
• Be sure to format the CF card/Microdrive using this camera when you use  
it for the first time.  
• Do not remove the label of a CF card/Microdrive or attach a new label  
over the label.  
• Do not press on the label strongly.  
Notes on use of the Microdrive  
A Microdrive is a compact and lightweight hard disk drive that complies with  
CompactFlash Type II.  
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• The Microdrive is a compact hard disk drive. Since the Microdrive is a rotating disk,  
the Microdrive is not strong enough to resist vibration and shock compared to a  
memory card.  
Be sure not to transmit vibration or shock to the Microdrive during playback or  
shooting.  
• Note that the use of the Microdrive under 5°C (41°F) may bring performance  
degradation.  
Operating temperature range when using the Microdrive: 5 to 40°C (41 to 104°F)  
• Note that the Microdrive cannot be used under low atmospheric pressure (above  
3 000 meters above sea-level).  
• Do not write on the label.  
On the “Memory Stick”  
• “Memory Stick”: You cannot use the  
“Memory Stick” with your camera.  
• “Memory Stick Duo”: You can use the  
“Memory Stick Duo” with your camera  
by inserting it in a Memory Stick Duo  
Adaptor for CompactFlash slot (not  
supplied).  
• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” or “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” with a  
capacity up to 8 GB have been confirmed to operate properly with this  
camera.  
• A “Memory Stick Duo” formatted with a computer is not guaranteed to  
operate with this camera.  
• Data read/write speeds differ depending on the combination of the  
“Memory Stick Duo” and the equipment used.  
Notes on using a “Memory Stick Duo”  
• Do not press down hard when you write down on the memo area.  
• Do not attach a label on the “Memory Stick Duo” itself.  
• Do not strike, bend or drop the “Memory Stick Duo.”  
• Do not disassemble or modify the “Memory Stick Duo.”  
• Do not leave the “Memory Stick Duo” within the reach of small children. They  
might accidentally swallow it.  
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• Do not use or store the “Memory Stick Duo” under the following conditions:  
– High temperature locations such as the hot interior of a car parked in direct  
sunlight.  
– Locations exposed to direct sunlight.  
– Humid locations or locations with corrosive substances present.  
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Preparing the camera  
Setting up the date  
When you turn the camera on for the first time, the date/time setup screen  
appears.  
1 Set the POWER switch to ON to  
turn the camera on.  
• To turn the camera off, set it to OFF.  
2 Verify that [OK] is selected on the  
LCD monitor, then press the  
center of the controller.  
3 Select each item with b/B and  
set the numeric value with v/V.  
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4 Repeat step 3 to set other items, then press the center of the  
controller.  
• When changing the sequence of [YYYY/MM/DD], first select [YYYY/  
MM/DD] with b/B, then change it with v/V.  
5 Verify that [OK] is selected, then press the center of the  
controller.  
To cancel the date/time setting operation  
Press the MENU button.  
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Using the accessories supplied  
This section describes how to use the shoulder strap and the eyepiece cover.  
The other accessories are described in the following pages.  
• Rechargeable battery pack (page 14)  
• Battery charger, Power cord (mains lead) (page 14)  
• USB cable (pages 128, 144)  
• Video cable (page 112)  
• CD-ROM (page 136)  
Attaching the shoulder strap  
Eyepiece cover  
Attach the both ends of the strap on  
the camera.  
• You can also attach the eyepiece cover  
(below) on the strap.  
Using the eyepiece cover  
You can prevent light from entering through the viewfinder and affecting  
the exposure. When the shutter is released without the use of the  
viewfinder, as in shooting with the self-timer, attach the eyepiece cover.  
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1 Tilt the LCD monitor downward.  
2 Carefully slide the eyecup off by  
pushing on each side of the  
eyecup.  
• Insert your fingers under the eyecup,  
and slide it upward.  
3 Slide the eyepiece cover over the  
viewfinder.  
Note  
• The eyepiece sensors located below the viewfinder may be activated depending on  
the situation, and the focus may be adjusted or the LCD monitor may continue to  
flash. In such cases, set [Eye-Start AF] (page 67) and [Auto off w/ VF] (page 123) to  
[Off].  
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Checking the number of recordable  
images  
Once you insert a memory card into the  
camera and set the POWER switch to  
ON, the number of images that can be  
recorded (should you continue to shoot  
using the current settings) is displayed on  
the LCD monitor.  
Notes  
• If “0” is flashing in yellow, the memory card is full. Replace the memory card with  
another one, or delete images in the current memory card (pages 21, 110).  
• When “----” (the number of recordable images) flashes in yellow, it means no  
memory card is inserted. Insert a memory card.  
The number of images that can be recorded on a memory  
card  
The table shows the approximate number of images that can be recorded on  
a memory card formatted with this camera. The values may vary depending  
on the shooting conditions.  
The number of recordable images (Units: Images)  
Image size: L 14M (DSLR-A350)/L 10M (DSLR-A300)  
Aspect ratio: 3:2*  
DSLR-A350  
Capacity  
1GB  
2GB  
4GB  
8GB  
Size  
Standard  
275  
197  
36  
552  
396  
73  
1106  
795  
147  
181  
2206  
1585  
295  
Fine  
RAW & JPEG  
RAW  
44  
90  
363  
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DSLR-A300  
Capacity  
1GB  
2GB  
4GB  
8GB  
Size  
Standard  
325  
241  
48  
653  
484  
98  
1307  
969  
198  
250  
2606  
1933  
397  
Fine  
RAW & JPEG  
RAW  
61  
124  
500  
* When [Aspect ratio] is set to [16:9], you can record more images than the numbers  
shown in the table above. However, if it is set to [RAW], the number is the same as  
that of the [3:2] aspect ratio.  
The number of images that can be recorded using a battery  
pack  
The approximate number of images that can be recorded is as follows when  
you use the camera with the battery pack (supplied) at full capacity.  
Note that the actual numbers may be less than those indicated depending on  
the conditions of use.  
DSLR-A350  
DSLR-A300  
Live view mode  
Viewfinder mode  
Approx. 410 images  
Approx. 730 images  
Approx. 410 images  
Approx. 730 images  
• The number is calculated with a battery pack at full capacity and in the  
following situation:  
– At an ambient temperature of 25°C (77°F).  
– [Quality] is set to [Fine].  
– Focus mode is set to  
(Automatic AF).  
– Shooting once every 30 seconds.  
– The flash strobes once every two times.  
– The power turns on and off once every ten times.  
• The measurement method is based on the CIPA standard.  
(CIPA: Camera & Imaging Products Association)  
• When using a Microdrive, the number of images recordable may differ.  
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Cleaning  
Cleaning the LCD monitor  
Wipe the screen surface with an LCD cleaning kit (not supplied) to remove  
fingerprints, dust, etc.  
Cleaning the lens  
• When cleaning the lens surface, remove dust using a blower. In case of  
dust that sticks to the surface, wipe it off with a soft cloth or tissue paper  
slightly moistened with lens cleaning solution. Wipe in a spiral pattern  
from the center to the outside. Do not spray lens cleaning solution directly  
onto the lens surface.  
• Do not touch the inside of the camera, such as lens contacts, or the mirror.  
Since dust on the mirror or around the mirror may affect the autofocus  
system, blow away dust using a commercially available blower. If dust  
lands on the image sensor, it may appear on the photo image. Turn the  
camera to the cleaning mode, then clean it using a blower (page 32). Do  
not use a spray blower to clean the inside of the camera. Using this may  
cause a malfunction.  
• Do not use a cleaning solution containing organic solvents, such as  
thinner, or benzine.  
Cleaning the camera surface  
Clean the camera surface with a soft cloth slightly moistened with water,  
then wipe the surface with a dry cloth. Do not use the following as they  
may damage the finish or the casing.  
• Chemical products such as thinner, benzine, alcohol, disposable cloths,  
insect repellent, sunscreen or insecticide, etc.  
• Do not touch the camera with the above on your hand.  
• Do not leave the camera in contact with rubber or vinyl for a long time.  
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Cleaning the image sensor  
If dust or debris enters the camera and lands on the image sensor (the part  
that acts as the film), it may appear on the photo image, depending on the  
shooting environment. If there is dust on the image sensor, use a  
commercially available blower and clean the image sensor following the  
steps below. You can easily clean the image sensor using only the blower  
and the anti-dust function.  
Notes  
• Cleaning can be performed only when the battery level is  
(three remaining  
battery icons) or more. Low battery power during cleaning can cause damage to the  
shutter. The cleaning should be completed quickly. The use of an AC Adaptor/  
Charger (not supplied) is recommended.  
• Do not use a spray blower because it may scatter vapor inside the camera body.  
1 Confirm that the battery is fully charged (page 17).  
2 Press the MENU button, then  
select  
3 with b/B on the  
controller.  
MENU button  
3 Select [Cleaning mode] with v/V  
on the controller, then press the  
center of the controller.  
The message “After cleaning, turn  
camera off. Continue?” appears.  
4 Select [OK] with v on the controller, and press the center of the  
controller.  
After the image sensor vibrates for a short time, the mirror in front is lifted.  
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5 Detach the lens (page 20).  
6 Use the blower to clean the image  
sensor surface and the  
surrounding area.  
• Do not touch the image sensor with the  
tip of the blower. Complete the  
cleaning quickly.  
• Hold the camera’s face downward to  
prevent the dust from resettling in the  
camera.  
• When cleaning the image sensor, do not  
put the tip of a blower into the cavity  
beyond the lens mount.  
7 Attach the lens and set the POWER switch to OFF.  
Note  
• The camera starts beeping if the battery pack becomes low during cleaning. Stop the  
cleaning immediately and set the POWER switch to OFF.  
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Before your operation  
Identifying parts and screen indicators  
See the pages in parentheses for details of operation.  
Front side  
A Shutter button (48)  
C Self-timer lamp (98)  
D Lens contacts*  
E Mirror*  
F Lens mount  
I
(Flash pop-up) button (79)  
J Lens release button (20)  
K Focus mode switch (72, 75)  
* Do not directly touch these parts.  
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Rear side  
• You can adjust the angle of the  
LCD monitor to meet various  
shooting situations.  
A Accessory shoe (71)  
B Viewfinder (67)  
D POWER switch (25)  
E MENU button (40)  
J Diopter-adjustment dial (68)  
K For shooting:  
For viewing:  
button (102)/  
(Exposure)  
(Zoom out)  
(Index) button  
F DISP (Display) button/LCD  
brightness button (39, 101)  
G
H
L
(Drive) button (97)  
(Playback) button (101)  
M LIVE VIEW/OVF switch (67,  
I LCD monitor (38, 39, 69, 71)  
77)  
N ISO button (90)  
O
Image sensor position  
mark (73)  
P For shooting: AEL (AE lock)  
button (64, 83)  
For viewing:  
(Zoom in)  
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Q
(Smart teleconverter)  
R For shooting: Fn (Function)  
For viewing:  
(Image  
rotation) button (102)  
S Access lamp (22)  
T Controller (Enter)/Spot AF  
U Controller (v/V/b/B)  
V
(Super SteadyShot) switch  
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Sides/Bottom  
A VIDEO OUT/USB terminal  
H Battery cover (17)  
I Tripod receptacle  
B Memory card cover  
• Use a tripod with a screw length  
of less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch).  
You will be unable to firmly  
secure the camera to tripods  
having screws longer than 5.5  
mm (7/32 inch), and may  
C Memory card insertion slot (21)  
D Memory card eject lever (22)  
E Hooks for shoulder strap (27)  
F REMOTE terminal  
damage the camera.  
• When connecting the RM-  
S1AM/RM-L1AM Remote  
Commander (not supplied) to  
the camera, insert the plug of  
the Remote Commander in the  
REMOTE terminal, aligning  
the guide of the plug on the  
guide of the REMOTE  
terminal.  
G DC IN terminal  
• When connecting the AC-  
VQ900AM AC Adaptor/  
Charger (not supplied) to the  
camera, turn the camera off,  
then plug the connector of the  
AC Adaptor/Charger to the DC  
IN terminal on the camera.  
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LCD monitor  
The indicators on the monitor are displayed as follows in Live view mode.  
For the indicators in viewfinder mode, see page 71.  
A
B
Display  
Indication  
Display  
Indication  
90% Battery remaining (17)  
Image quality (115)  
Drive mode (97)  
Histogram  
P A S M  
Mode dial (48)  
Image size (114)/Aspect  
100  
G9  
Remaining number of  
recordable images (29)  
Flash mode (81)  
White balance (Auto,  
Preset, Color  
Red-eye reduction (80)  
Flash compensation (88)  
7500K temperature, Color filter,  
Custom) (91)  
C
D-Range Optimizer (95)  
Creative Style (95)  
Display  
z
Indication  
Focus  
1/125  
F3.5  
Shutter speed (61)  
Aperture (59)  
EV scale (63, 99)  
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D
Display  
Indication  
Camera shake warning  
Display  
Indication  
Focus mode (74)  
Super SteadyShot scale  
AF area (75)  
ISO  
ISO sensitivity (90)  
To switch the recording information display  
Each time you press the DISP button, the  
screen changes as follows.  
DISP button  
Indicators off  
Indicators on  
Histogram on  
Histogram (page 107)  
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Selecting a function/setting  
You can select a function for shooting or playback from the menu list. To  
display the menu list, press the Fn (Function) button,  
button, or MENU button.  
(Drive)  
Example: When the Fn button is pressed.  
From the menu list, use the controller to  
move the cursor to the setting of your  
choice and execute the selection.  
: Press v/V/b/B on the controller to  
move the cursor.  
z: Press the center button to execute the  
selection.  
In this instruction manual, the process of selecting a function with the  
controller from the menu list is described as follows:  
Example: Fn button t [White balance] t Select the desired  
setting  
When you start the operation, an operation guide of controller functions  
will be displayed at the bottom of the screen. Please refer to the guide when  
operating the camera. The step-by-step description of the above example is  
as follows:  
1 Press the Fn button.  
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2 Following the operation guide,  
select [White balance] with v/V/  
b/B on the controller, then press  
the center z to execute.  
Operation guide  
3 Following the operation guide,  
select and execute the desired  
function.  
For example, to change [5500K] (the  
current setting), select [5500K] with v/  
V, adjust the value of  
[ColorTemperature] with b/B, then press  
the center z to execute.  
The operation guide list  
The operation guide also indicates operations other than the controller  
operation. The indications of icons are as follows.  
MENU button  
Returns with MENU button  
(Delete) button  
(Zoom in) button  
(Zoom out) button  
(Playback) button  
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The functions selected by the Fn (Function) button  
Autofocus mode (page 74)  
White balance (page 91)  
Metering mode (page 89)  
AF area (page 75)  
D-RangeOptimizer (page 95)  
The functions selected by the  
(Drive) button  
Single-shot adv. (page 97)  
Continuous adv. (page 97)  
Self-timer (page 98)  
Bracket: Cont. (page 98)  
WB bracket (page 100)  
Functions selected by the MENU button  
Recording menu  
Image size (114)  
Aspect ratio (115)  
Creative Style (95)  
Flash control (88)  
Flash compens. (88)  
Priority setup (119)  
AF illuminator (80)  
Long exp.NR (118)  
High ISO NR (118)  
Rec mode reset (124)  
1
2
Custom menu  
Eye-Start AF (67)  
AEL button (120)  
Ctrl dial setup (120)  
Auto review (122)  
1
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Playback menu  
Format (117)  
Protect (109)  
PlaybackDisplay (101)  
Slide show (105)  
1
2
• Date imprint (142)  
• Index print (142)  
Setup menu  
LCD brightness (122)  
Info.disp.time (122)  
Power save (121)  
Video output (113)  
Language (121)  
File number (116)  
• New folder (117)  
USB connection (128, 143)  
Audio signals (121)  
1
2
Date/Time setup (121)  
Pixel mapping (154)  
Cleaning mode (32)  
Reset default (125)  
3
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Shooting images  
Shooting an image without camera shake  
“Camera shake” refers to an unwanted movement of the camera that occurs  
after the shutter button has been pressed, resulting in a blurred image.  
To reduce camera shake, follow the instructions below.  
Correct posture  
When using the LCD monitor  
Low position  
High position  
When using the viewfinder  
Stabilize your upper body and take a position that keeps the  
camera from moving.  
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Point 1  
One hand holds the grip of the camera, and the other hand supports the lens.  
Point 2  
Take a secure stance with your feet shoulder-width apart.  
Point 3  
Lightly tuck your elbows against your body.  
When shooting in a kneeling position, steady your upper body by placing  
your elbow on your knee.  
Point 4  
When shooting with the LCD monitor, adjust the angle of the LCD monitor  
to suit your shooting situation.  
Camera shake warning indicator  
Due to potential camera shake, the  
(Camera shake warning) indicator  
flashes. In this case, use the Super  
SteadyShot function, a tripod, or the  
flash.  
(Camera shake warning) indicator  
Note  
• The  
(Camera shake warning) indicator is displayed only in the modes that the  
shutter speed is automatically set. This indicator is not displayed in M/S/P modes.  
S
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Using the Super SteadyShot function  
This Super SteadyShot function can reduce the effect of camera shake by  
the equivalent of approximately 2.5 to 3.5 increments of shutter speed.  
Set the  
switch to “ON.”  
• The  
(Super SteadyShot scale) indicator  
appears. Wait until the scale becomes low,  
then start shooting.  
switch  
(Super SteadyShot scale) indicator  
Note  
• The Super SteadyShot function may not work optimally when the power has just  
been turned on or when the shutter button has been pressed all the way down without  
stopping halfway. Wait for the  
(Super SteadyShot scale) indicator scale to go  
down, and then press the shutter button down slowly.  
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Using a tripod  
In the following cases, we recommend that you mount the camera on a  
tripod.  
• Shooting without a flash under dark conditions.  
• Shooting with slow shutter speeds, which are typically used in night-time  
shooting.  
• Shooting a close subject, such as in macro shooting.  
• Shooting with a telescopic lens.  
• Shooting a moving subject.  
Note  
• When using a tripod, deactivate the Super SteadyShot function.  
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/ Shooting with the automatic  
setting  
The “AUTO” mode allows you to easily shoot any subject under any  
conditions.  
Select  
when shooting in a location where the use of a flash is restricted.  
1 Set the mode dial to  
(Flash Off).  
or  
or  
2 Hold the camera and look into the  
viewfinder.  
Focus area  
3 Place the desired subject within  
the focus area.  
• If the  
(Camera shake warning)  
indicator flashes, set the  
switch to  
ON to activate the Super SteadyShot  
function, or use a tripod.  
(Camera shake warning) indicator  
4 When using a zoom lens, turn the  
zoom ring, then decide on your  
shot.  
Zoom ring  
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5 Press the shutter button halfway  
down to focus.  
When the focus is confirmed, the focus  
indicator z or  
(Focus indicator)  
lights up (page 72).  
Focus indicator  
6 Press the shutter button fully  
down to shoot.  
• When the  
switch is set to ON, wait  
until the scale of the  
(Super  
SteadyShot scale) indicator becomes  
low, then start shooting.  
(Super SteadyShot scale) indicator  
Note  
• If you turn the camera off or change the recording mode in AUTO or Scene  
Selection mode, the settings you set up with the Fn button,  
button, or MENU button are reset to the default settings. The manual focus feature is  
also released.  
button, ISO  
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Shooting with a suitable setting for the  
subject (Scene Selection)  
Selecting an appropriate mode for the subject or the shooting conditions  
allows you to shoot the image with a more suitable setting for the subject  
than in “AUTO” mode.  
Taking portrait photos  
This mode is suitable to  
zBlur away backgrounds and sharpen  
the subject.  
zReproduce skin tones softly.  
Set the mode dial to  
(Portrait).  
Shooting techniques  
• To blur the background more, set the lens to the telephoto position.  
• You can shoot a vivid image by focusing on the eye that is closer to the  
lens.  
• Use the lens hood to shoot backlit subjects.  
• Use the red-eye reduction function if the eyes of your subject turn red  
from the flash (page 80).  
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Taking landscape photos  
This mode is suitable to  
zShoot the entire range of scenery in  
sharp focus with vivid colors.  
Set the mode dial to  
(Landscape).  
Shooting technique  
• To accentuate the openness of the scenery, set the lens to wide angle.  
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Taking small-subject photos  
This mode is suitable to  
zShoot close subjects such as  
flowers, insects, dishes, or small  
goods. You can achieve clear and  
sharp focus.  
Set the mode dial to  
(Macro).  
Shooting techniques  
• Get close to the subject and shoot at the minimum distance of the lens.  
• You can shoot a closer subject using a macro lens.  
• Set the built-in flash to (Flash Off) when you shoot a subject within  
1 m (3.3 feet).  
• In macro mode shooting, the Super SteadyShot function will not be fully  
effective. Use a tripod to achieve better results (page 47).  
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Taking moving-subject photos  
This mode is suitable to  
zShoot moving subjects outdoors or  
in bright places.  
Set the mode dial to  
(Sports action).  
Shooting techniques  
• The camera shoots images continuously while the shutter button is  
pressed.  
• Press and hold the shutter button halfway down until the right moment.  
• Set the ISO sensitivity higher when shooting in poor light (page 90).  
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Taking sunset photos  
This mode is suitable to  
zShoot the red of the sunset  
beautifully.  
Set the mode dial to  
(Sunset).  
Shooting techniques  
• Used to shoot an image accentuating the red color compared with other  
modes. This is also suitable for shooting the beautiful red of the sunrise.  
• You can adjust the depth of the color by exposure compensation. Shifting  
to the under side (–) deepens the colors, while shifting to the over side (+)  
attenuates the colors.  
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Taking night view photos  
This mode is suitable to  
zShoot portraits in night scenes.  
zShoot night scenes at a distance  
without losing the dark atmosphere  
of the surroundings.  
Set the mode dial to  
(Night portrait/Night view).  
Set [Flash mode] to (Flash Off) when you shoot a night view without  
persons (page 81).  
Shooting techniques  
• Take care that the subject does not move to prevent the image from  
blurring.  
• The shutter speed is slower, so using a tripod is recommended.  
Note  
• The picture may not be taken properly when shooting a wholly dark night scene.  
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Shooting an image the way you want it  
(Exposure mode)  
With a single lens reflex camera, you can adjust the shutter speed (how  
long the shutter is open) and aperture (the range that is in focus: depth of  
field) to enjoy a variety of photographic expressions.  
For example, you can use a fast shutter speed to shoot the ephemeral shape  
of a wave, or you can accentuate a flower by opening the aperture to put  
everything in front of and beyond the flower out of focus. These are a few  
of the effects you can enjoy with your camera (pages 59, 61).  
Adjusting the shutter speed and aperture not only creates the photographic  
effects of movement and focus, but also determines the brightness of the  
image by controlling the amount of exposure (the amount of light the  
camera takes in), which is the most important factor in photo shooting.  
Changing of picture brightness by the amount of exposure  
Amount of  
exposure  
low  
high  
When using a faster shutter speed, the camera opens the shutter for a  
shorter time. This means less time for the camera to take in light, resulting  
in a darker picture. To take a brighter picture, you can open the aperture  
(the hole through which the light passes) to some extent in order to adjust  
the amount of light the camera takes in at one time.  
The brightness of the picture adjusted by the shutter speed and aperture is  
called “exposure.”  
This section will show you how to adjust the exposure and enjoy various  
photo expressions by the use of movement, focus, and light. You can find  
out the right way to shoot the image and the subject you like.  
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Shooting with program auto  
This mode is suitable to  
zUse the automatic exposure, while  
keeping the custom settings for ISO  
sensitivity, Creative Style, D-Range  
optimizer, etc.  
zKeep the exposure compensation  
measured by the camera, but change  
the combination of shutter speed and  
aperture depending on the subject  
(Program shift).  
1 Set the mode dial to P.  
2 Set the shooting functions to your desired settings (pages 72 to  
The settings will be stored until you reset the settings.  
• To fire the flash, press the button.  
3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.  
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To use Program shift  
1 Press the shutter button halfway  
down to adjust the focus.  
The correct exposure (shutter speed and  
aperture value) determined by the camera  
is indicated.  
Aperture value  
Shutter speed  
2 Rotate the control dial to select  
your desired combination while  
the focus is achieved.  
The recording mode indicator is switched  
to “P ” (Shutter speed priority program  
S
Aperture value  
Shutter speed  
shift), and the shutter speed and aperture  
value are changed.  
• Switch to “P ” (Aperture priority  
A
P
S
program shift) when you want to select  
a combination by reference to the  
aperture value (page 120).  
3 Shoot the subject.  
Notes  
• If you turn the camera off and on or a certain period of time is passed, Program shift  
“P ” or “P ” is canceled and returned to “P.”  
S
A
• When Program Shift “P ” is selected, the  
S
(Camera shake warning) indicator is  
not displayed.  
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Shooting by controlling the blur of the background  
(Aperture priority)  
This mode is suitable to  
zPut the subject in sharp focus and  
blur everything in front of and  
beyond the subject. Opening the  
aperture narrows the range that is in  
focus. (Depth of field becomes  
shallower.)  
zShoot the depth of the scenery.  
Narrowing down the aperture widens  
the range that is in focus. (Depth of  
field becomes deeper.)  
1 Set the mode dial to A.  
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2 Select the aperture value (F-  
number) with the control dial.  
• Smaller F-number: The foreground and  
background of the subject are blurred.  
Larger F-number: The subject and its  
foreground and background are also  
focused on.  
• You cannot check the blurring of an  
image in the viewfinder. Check the  
recorded image and adjust the aperture.  
Aperture (F-number)  
3 Adjust the focus and shoot the  
subject.  
The shutter speed is automatically  
adjusted to obtain correct exposure.  
• When the camera judges that the proper  
exposure is not obtained with the  
selected aperture value, the shutter  
speed flashes. In such cases, adjust the  
aperture again.  
Shutter speed  
Shooting techniques  
• The shutter speed may become slower depending on the aperture value.  
When the shutter speed is slower, use a tripod.  
• The flash range differs according to the aperture value. When you shoot  
with the flash, check the flash range (page 80).  
• To blur the background more, use a telephoto lens or a lens that is  
equipped with a smaller diaphragm (bright lens).  
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Shooting a moving subject with various expressions  
(Shutter speed priority)  
This mode is suitable to  
zShoot a moving subject at a moment  
in time. Use a faster shutter speed to  
crisply shoot an instant of the  
movement.  
zTrace the movement to express the  
dynamism and flow. Use a slower  
shutter speed to shoot a trailing  
image of the moving subject.  
1 Set the mode dial to S.  
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2 Select the shutter speed with the  
control dial.  
Shutter speed  
3 Adjust the focus and shoot the  
subject.  
The aperture is automatically adjusted to  
obtain correct exposure.  
• When the camera judges that the proper  
exposure is not obtained with the  
selected shutter speed, the aperture  
value flashes. In such cases, adjust the  
shutter speed again.  
Aperture (F-number)  
Shooting techniques  
• When the shutter speed is slower, use a tripod.  
• When shooting an indoor sport, select a higher ISO sensitivity.  
Notes  
• The  
(Camera shake warning) indicator is not indicated in shutter speed priority  
mode.  
• When using the flash, if you close the aperture (a larger F-number) by making the  
shutter speed slower, the light of the flash does not reach a distant subject.  
• The higher the ISO sensitivity, the more outstanding the noise.  
• When the shutter speed is one second or more, noise reduction (Long exp.NR) will  
be done after shooting (page 118). You cannot do any further shooting during the  
reduction.  
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Shooting with the exposure adjusted manually (Manual  
exposure)  
This mode is suitable to  
zShoot with the desired exposure  
setting by adjusting both the shutter  
speed and aperture.  
zUse an exposure meter.  
1 Set the mode dial to M.  
2 Rotate the control dial to adjust  
the shutter speed, and while  
pressing the  
button, rotate the  
control dial to adjust the aperture.  
• You can assign a function to the control  
dial with [Ctrl dial setup] (page 120).  
button  
Aperture (F-number)  
Shutter speed  
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3 Shoot the image after the  
exposure is set.  
• Check the exposure value on the EV  
scale.  
Toward +: Images become brighter.  
Toward –: Images become darker.  
The b B arrow appears if the set  
exposure is beyond the range of the EV  
scale. The arrow starts flashing if the  
difference becomes greater.  
Standard value  
Notes  
• The  
(Camera shake warning) indicator is not indicated in manual exposure  
mode.  
• When the mode dial is set to M, the ISO setting [AUTO] is set to [100]. In M mode,  
the ISO setting [AUTO] is not available. Set the ISO sensitivity as necessary.  
Manual shift  
You can change the shutter speed and aperture value combination without  
changing the exposure you set.  
Rotate the control dial while pressing the  
AEL button to select the shutter speed  
and aperture value combination.  
AEL button  
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Shooting trails with long exposure (BULB)  
This mode is suitable to  
zShoot trails of light, such as  
fireworks.  
zShoot trails of stars.  
1 Set the mode dial to M.  
2 Rotate the control dial to the left  
until [BULB] is indicated.  
BULB  
3 While pressing the  
button,  
rotate the control dial to adjust  
the aperture (F-number).  
button  
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4 Press the shutter button halfway down to adjust the focus.  
5 Press and hold the shutter button for the duration of the  
shooting.  
As long as the shutter button is pressed, the shutter remains open.  
Shooting techniques  
• Use a tripod.  
• Set the focus to infinity in manual focus mode when shooting fireworks,  
etc.  
• If you use a Remote Commander that is equipped with a shutter button  
lock function (not supplied), you can leave the shutter open using the  
Remote Commander.  
Notes  
• When using a tripod, turn off the Super SteadyShot function.  
• The longer the exposure time, the more outstanding the noise on the image.  
• After shooting, noise reduction (Long exp.NR) will be done for the same amount of  
time that the shutter was open. You cannot do any further shooting during the  
reduction.  
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Shooting with the viewfinder (OVF)  
You can select either the LCD monitor (Live view) or the viewfinder  
(OVF) to shoot images.  
Switching to the viewfinder  
Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to  
“OVF.”  
The screen status changes as follows:  
Viewfinder display  
LCD monitor display  
When you look into the viewfinder, the subject inside the focus area comes  
into focus automatically (Eye-Start AF).  
To deactivate the Eye-Start AF function  
MENU button t  
1 t [Eye-Start AF] t [Off]  
• When attaching the FDA-M1AM Magnifier (not supplied) or the FDA-  
A1AM Angle Finder (not supplied) to the camera, setting [Eye-Start AF]  
to [Off] is recommended because the eyepiece sensors located below the  
viewfinder may be activated.  
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Adjusting the focus of the finder (diopter adjustment)  
Adjust the diopter-adjustment dial  
to your eyesight until the indicators  
appear clearly in the viewfinder.  
• Turn the dial toward + when you are far-  
sighted, toward – when you are near-sighted.  
• Training the camera on the light allows you to  
adjust the diopter easily.  
When it is hard to rotate the diopter-adjustment dial  
Insert your fingers under the eyecup, and  
slide it upward.  
• When attaching the FDA-M1AM Magnifier  
(not supplied) or the FDA-A1AM Angle  
Finder (not supplied) to the camera, remove  
the eyecup as illustrated and attach them.  
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LCD monitor (Recording information display)  
• The illustration above is for the detailed display. The enlarged display is displayed as  
the default setting.  
A
C
Display  
Indication  
Display  
Indication  
P A S M Mode dial (48)  
Drive mode (97)  
1/125  
Aperture (59)  
Exposure (63)  
Focus mode (74)  
F5.6  
+2.0  
AF area (75)  
Creative Style (95)  
B
Display  
Indication  
Flash mode (81)/Red-eye  
reduction (80)  
AWB  
White balance (Auto,  
Preset, Color  
Exposure-compensation  
temperature, Color filter,  
7500K G9 Custom) (91)  
Flash compensation (88)  
EV scale (63, 99)  
D-Range Optimizer (95)  
ISO AUTO ISO sensitivity (90)  
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D
Display  
100  
Indication  
Image size (114)/Aspect  
Display  
Indication  
90% Battery remaining (17)  
Remaining number of  
recordable images (29)  
Image quality (115)  
Switching the recording information display  
Press the DISP button to switch between  
the enlarged display and the detailed  
display.  
When you rotate the camera to a vertical  
position, the display automatically rotates  
to adjust to the camera position.  
DISP button  
Detailed display  
Enlarged display  
No display  
Note  
• You can display the screen used for adjusting the brightness of the LCD monitor by  
pressing the DISP button a little longer (page 122).  
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Viewfinder  
A
Display  
Indication  
Super SteadyShot scale  
Display  
Indication  
AF area (75)  
Aspect ratio 16:9 (115)  
Spot AF area (75)  
Spot metering area (89)  
* When using the HVL-F56AM/HVL-  
F36AM Flash (not supplied), you can  
shoot with a High-speed sync feature  
at any shutter speed. For details, refer  
to the operating instructions supplied  
with the flash.  
Shooting area for aspect  
ratio 16:9 (115)  
B
Display  
Indication  
Flash compensation (88)  
Flash charging (81)  
Wireless flash (81)  
High-speed sync*  
Manual focus (75)  
Focus  
WL  
z
125  
5.6  
Aperture (59)  
EV scale (63, 99)  
2
Shots-remaining counter  
(97)  
Camera shake warning  
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Using the shooting function  
Selecting the focus method  
There are two methods for adjusting the focus: autofocus and manual focus.  
Using autofocus  
1 Set the focus mode switch to AF.  
Focus area sensor  
2 Press the shutter button halfway  
down to check the focus and shoot  
the image.  
• When the focus is confirmed, the focus  
indicator changes to z or  
• The green frames are indicated at an  
area where the focus has been  
confirmed.  
Focus area  
Focus indicator  
Shooting technique  
• To select the area used for focusing, set up [AF area] (page 75).  
Focus indicator  
Focus indicator  
Status  
z lit  
Focus locked. Ready to shoot.  
lit  
Focus is confirmed. Focal point moves following a moving  
subject. Ready to shoot.  
lit  
Still focusing. You cannot release the shutter.  
Cannot focus. The shutter is locked.  
z flashing  
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Subjects that may require special focusing:  
Using the autofocus, it is hard to focus on the following subjects. In such  
cases, use the focus lock shooting feature (page 73) or manual focus  
• A subject that is low in contrast, such as blue sky or a white wall.  
• Two subjects at different distances overlapping in the AF area.  
• A subject that is composed of repeating patterns, such as the facade of a  
building.  
• A subject that is very bright or glittering, such as the sun, the body of an  
automobile, or the surface of water.  
To measure the exact distance to the subject  
The  
mark located on the top of the  
camera shows the location of the image  
sensor*. When you measure the exact  
distance between the camera and the  
subject, refer to the position of the  
horizontal line.  
* The image sensor is the part of the  
camera that acts as the film.  
Note  
• If the subject is closer than the minimum shooting distance of the attached lens, the  
focus cannot be confirmed. Make sure you put enough distance between the subject  
and the camera.  
Shooting with your desired composition (Focus-lock)  
1 Place the subject within the AF  
area and press the shutter button  
halfway down.  
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2 Keep the shutter button halfway  
down, and put the subject back in  
the original position to re-  
compose the shot.  
3 Press the shutter button fully down to take the picture.  
Selecting the focus method to suit the movement of the  
subject (Autofocus mode)  
Fn button t [Autofocus mode] t Select the desired setting  
(Single-shot  
The camera focuses on and the focus is locked when you  
press the shutter button halfway down.  
AF)  
AF)  
(Automatic AF) When you press and hold the shutter button, if the subject is  
motionless, the focus is locked and if the subject is in motion,  
the camera continues to focus.  
(Continuous  
The camera continues to focus while the shutter button is  
pressed and held halfway down.  
• The audio signals will not sound when the subject is in  
focus.  
Shooting techniques  
• Use  
• Use  
(Single-shot AF) when the subject is motionless.  
(Continuous AF) when the subject is in motion.  
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Selecting the focus area (AF area)  
Select the desired AF are to suit the  
shooting conditions or your preference.  
The green frames are indicated at an area  
where the focus has been confirmed.  
• The area used for focusing is  
illuminated briefly in viewfinder mode.  
AF area  
Area  
Fn button t [AF area] t Select the desired setting  
(Wide)  
The camera determines which of the nine AF areas is used in  
focusing within the AF area. If you press and hold the center  
of the controller, you can adjust the focus using the spot AF  
area.  
(Spot)  
(Local)  
The camera uses the spot AF area exclusively.  
Choose the area for which you want to activate the focus  
from among nine areas with the controller during the  
shooting. To select the spot AF area, press the center of the  
controller.  
Notes  
• The AF area may not be illuminated during continuous shooting or when the shutter  
button is pressed all the way down without pause.  
• The green frames that are displayed when the focus has been confirmed indicate the  
area used for focusing. They do not indicate the size of the area. The AF area and the  
frames may not be located on the same position. This is not a malfunction.  
Adjusting the focus manually (Manual focus)  
When it is difficult to get the proper focus in autofocus mode, you can  
adjust the focus manually.  
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1 Set the focus mode switch to MF.  
2 Rotate the focusing ring of the  
lens to achieve a sharp focus.  
Focusing  
ring  
Notes  
• In the case of a subject that can be focused in autofocus mode, the z indicator lights  
up when the focus is confirmed. When the Wide AF area is used, the center area is  
used, and when the Local AF area is used, the area that is selected with the controller  
is used.  
• The camera resets the focal length to  
ON.  
(infinity) when the POWER switch is set to  
• When using a tele converter, etc., rotation of the focusing ring may not be smooth.  
• The correct focus is not achieved if the diopter is not adjusted properly in viewfinder  
• When you turn the camera off and then on again, or change the recording mode with  
the mode dial set to “AUTO” or Scene Selection, AF (Autofocus) is automatically  
selected regardless of the position of the focus mode switch.  
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Zooming in in one step  
You can zoom in to the center of an image using the smart teleconverter  
(Digital zoom) and record the image.  
1 Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to  
“LIVE VIEW.”  
button  
2 Press the  
button.  
• Each time you press the  
button, the  
zoom scaling changes as follows: Off  
t Approx. ×1.4 t Approx. ×2.  
The image size is automatically set to the following:  
Zoom scaling  
Approx. ×1.4  
Approx. ×2  
Image size  
M*  
S*  
* The number of pixels in the image size selected here is different from that  
of the image size selected in normal mode.  
M: 3264 × 2176 pixels (DSLR-A350)/  
2768 × 1840 pixels (DSLR-A300)  
S: 2416 × 1600 pixels (DSLR-A350)/  
2032 × 1360 pixels (DSLR-A300)  
Notes  
• When the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch is set to “OVF,” the smart teleconverter is  
unavailable.  
• When the smart teleconverter is available (When in AF mode), [AF area] is set to  
(Spot).  
• When the smart teleconverter is available, [Metering mode] is set to  
segment).  
(Multi  
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• When [Quality] is set to  
teleconverter is unavailable.  
(RAW) or  
(RAW & JPEG), the smart  
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Using the flash  
In a dark location, using the flash allows you to shoot the subject brightly,  
and it also helps to prevent camera shake. When shooting into the sun, you  
can use the flash to shoot a bright image of the backlit subject.  
button  
1 Press the button.  
The flash pops up.  
• In AUTO or Scene Selection mode, the  
flash automatically pops up if the  
amount of light is insufficient or the  
subject is backlit. The built-in flash  
does not pop up even if you press the  
button.  
2 After the flash charging is  
completed, shoot the subject.  
Flashing: The flash is being charged.  
When the indicator flashes, you cannot  
release the shutter.  
Lit: The flash has been charged and is  
ready to fire.  
(Flash charging)  
indicator  
• When you press the shutter button  
halfway down under dark lighting in  
autofocus mode, the flash may be fired  
to help easily focus a subject (AF  
illuminator).  
Shooting techniques  
• The lens or lens hood may block the light of the flash and a shadow may  
appear on the image. Remove the lens hood.  
• Shoot the subject at a distance of 1 m (3.3 feet) or greater.  
Notes  
• Do not hold the camera by grabbing the flash emitter.  
• Do not use the camera while the flash is not fully pulled up.  
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• Shooting conditions required to prevent shade from appearing on an image vary,  
depending on the lens.  
The flash range  
The built-in flash range depends on the ISO sensitivity and aperture value.  
Refer to the following table.  
Aperture  
F2.8  
AUTO 1.4 – 8.6 m (4.6 – 28 1 – 6 m (3.3 – 20  
feet) feet)  
1 – 4.3 m (3.3 – 14 1 – 3 m (3.3 – 9.8  
F4.0  
F5.6  
ISO  
setting  
1 – 4.3 m (3.3 – 14  
feet)  
100  
1 – 2.1 m (3.3 – 6.9  
feet)  
feet)  
feet)  
200  
1 – 6 m (3.3 – 20  
feet)  
1 – 4.3 m (3.3 – 14 1 – 3 m (3.3 – 9.8  
feet)  
feet)  
400  
1.4 – 8.6 m (4.6 – 28 1 – 6 m (3.3 – 20  
1 – 4.3 m (3.3 – 14  
feet)  
feet)  
feet)  
800  
2 – 12 m (6.6 – 39  
feet)  
1.4 – 8.6 m (4.6 – 28 1 – 6 m (3.3 – 20  
feet)  
feet)  
1600  
3200  
2.8 – 17 m (9.2 – 56 2 – 12 m (6.6 – 39  
1.4 – 8.6 m (4.6 – 28  
feet)  
feet)  
feet)  
4 – 24 m (13 – 79  
feet)  
2.8 – 17 m (9.2 – 56 2 – 12 m (6.6 – 39  
feet) feet)  
The AF illuminator  
• AF illuminator does not operate when [Autofocus mode] is set to  
(Continuous AF) or the subject is moving in (Automatic AF). (The  
or indicator lights.)  
• The AF illuminator may not operate with focal lengths of 300 mm or longer.  
• When an external flash is attached, the AF illuminator of the external  
flash is used.  
To deactivate the AF illuminator  
MENU button t  
2 t [AF illuminator] t [Off]  
To use the red-eye reduction  
The red-eye reduction reduces the red-eye phenomenon by providing pre-  
flash (low-flash light) a few times before shooting when using the flash.  
MENU button t  
1 t [Red eye reduc.] t [On]  
Note  
• The red-eye reduction is available only when the built-in flash is used.  
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Selecting the flash mode  
Fn button t [Flash mode] t Select the desired setting  
(Flash Off)  
(Autoflash)  
Does not fire even if the built-in flash pops up. This is not  
selectable when the mode dial is set to P, A, S, or M.  
Fires if it is dark or against light. This is not selectable when  
the mode dial is set to P, A, S, or M.  
(Fill-flash)  
Fires whenever the built-in flash pops up.  
(Slow sync.)  
Fires whenever the built-in flash pops up. Slow sync shooting  
allows you to shoot a clear image of both the subject and the  
background by slowing the shutter speed.  
(Rear sync.)  
(Wireless)  
Fires right before the exposure is completed whenever the  
built-in flash pops up.  
Fires an external flash (not supplied) that is off the camera  
and away from it (Wireless flash shooting).  
Shooting techniques  
• When shooting indoors or using nightscape, you can use slow sync to  
shoot a bright image of people and the background.  
• You can use rear sync to shoot a natural image of the trailing of a moving  
subject such as a moving bicycle or a walking person.  
Performing wireless flash shooting  
With an external wireless flash (not supplied), you can shoot with the flash  
without a cord when the external flash is not attached to the camera. By  
changing the position of the flash, you can shoot an image with a three  
dimensional feel by highlighting the contrast of light and shadow on the  
subject.  
For the actual steps of shooting, refer to the operating instructions of the  
flash.  
Fn button t [Flash mode] t (Wireless)  
• To do a pre-flash test, pull up the flash and press the AEL button on the  
camera.  
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Notes  
• Turn off the wireless flash mode after wireless flash shooting. If the built-in flash is  
used while the wireless flash mode is still active, inaccurate flash exposures will  
result.  
• Change the channel of the external flash when another photographer is using a  
wireless flash nearby and his/her built-in flash light triggers firing of your flash. To  
change the channel of the external flash, refer to the operating instructions supplied  
with it.  
The AEL button setting  
When using the wireless flash, it is recommended that you set [AEL button]  
(page 120) to [AEL hold] in the  
Custom menu.  
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Adjusting the brightness of the image  
(Exposure, Flash compensation,  
Metering)  
Shooting with fixed brightness (AE Lock)  
When shooting into the sun or by a window, the exposure may not be  
appropriate for the subject because of the big difference in lighting between  
the subject and the background. In such cases, use the light meter where the  
subject is bright enough and lock the exposure before shooting. To reduce  
the brightness of the subject, point the camera forwards a spot that is  
brighter than the subject and use the light meter to lock the exposure of the  
entire image. To make the subject brighter, point the camera forwards a  
spot that is darker than the subject and use the light meter to lock the  
exposure of the entire image.  
This section describes how to shoot a brighter image of the subject using  
the (Spot).  
The spot where you  
lock the exposure.  
1 Fn button t [Metering mode] t  
(Spot)  
2 Adjust the focus on the portion you want to lock the exposure.  
The exposure is set when the focus is achieved.  
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3 Press the AEL button to lock the  
exposure.  
(AE lock mark) appears.  
AEL button  
4 While pressing the AEL button, focus on the subject, and shoot  
the subject.  
• If you continue to shoot with the same exposure value, press and hold the  
AEL button after the shooting. The setting is canceled when the button is  
released.  
To check the exposure of the image  
Spot metering circle  
Hold down the AEL button and place the  
spot metering circle on the spot where the  
lighting is contrasted from the subject.  
The metering indicator displays the  
degree of exposure difference, zero being  
the locked exposure.  
Shifting to the + side makes the image  
brighter, and shifting to the – side makes  
the image darker.  
When the image is too bright or too dark  
to get the proper exposure, b or B  
appears or flashes at the end of the  
indicator.  
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Using brightness compensation for the entire image  
(Exposure compensation)  
Except for recording mode M, the exposure is automatically acquired.  
(Automatic exposure)  
Based on the exposure acquired by the automatic exposure, you can  
perform exposure compensation by shifting the exposure to either the +  
side or the – side, depending on your preference. You can make the entire  
image brighter by shifting to the + side. The entire image becomes darker  
when you shift it to the – side.  
Adjust in the –  
direction  
Base exposure  
Adjust in the +  
direction  
button  
1 Press the  
button.  
• The exposure compensation screen is  
displayed in the viewfinder mode.  
2 Adjust the exposure with the  
control dial.  
Toward + (over): Brightens an image.  
Toward – (under): Darkens an image.  
Standard exposure  
3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.  
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Shooting techniques  
• Adjust the compensation level by checking the recorded image.  
• Using bracket shooting, you can shoot multiple images with the exposure  
shifted to the plus or minus sides (page 98).  
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To shoot while checking the screen using the histogram  
A histogram is the luminance distribution  
that shows how many pixels of a  
particular brightness exist in the picture.  
Dark  
Light  
The exposure compensation will change  
the histogram accordingly. The right  
illustration is an example.  
Shooting with the exposure  
compensation on the positive side  
brightens the whole picture, making the  
entire histogram shift to the bright side  
(right side). If the exposure compensation  
is applied on the negative side, the  
histogram will shift to the other side.  
Both ends of the histogram show a high-  
key or low-key portion. It is impossible to  
restore these area with a computer later.  
Adjust the exposure if necessary and  
shoot again.  
Notes  
• The histogram displayed in Live view mode does not indicate the final recorded  
image. It indicates the condition of the image just monitored. The histogram will  
differ based on aperture setting, etc.  
• The histogram differs between shooting and playback in the following situations:  
– When firing the flash.  
– When the subject has low intensity, such as night scenery.  
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Adjusting the amount of flash light (Flash compensation)  
When shooting with the flash, you can adjust the amount of flash light  
alone, without changing the exposure compensation. You can only change  
the exposure of a main subject which is within the flash range.  
MENU button t  
1 t [Flash compens.] t Select the  
desired setting  
• Toward +: Makes the flash level higher.  
Toward –: Makes the flash level lower.  
Notes  
• If you have adjusted the flash level,  
appears on the LCD monitor/in the  
viewfinder when the built-in flash is pulled up. When you adjust it, be careful not to  
forget to reset the value.  
• The positive effect may not be visible due to the limited amount of flash light, if the  
subject is at or around the maximum range for the flash. If the subject is very close,  
the negative effect may not be visible.  
Exposure compensation and flash compensation  
Exposure compensation changes the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO sensitivity (when  
[AUTO] is selected) to perform the compensation. If the flash is used, the amount of  
flash light is also changed.  
However, flash compensation only changes the amount of flash light.  
Selecting the flash control mode to set the amount of flash  
light (Flash control)  
MENU button t  
1 t [Flash control] t Select the desired  
setting  
ADI flash  
This method controls the lighting of the flash, factoring in the  
focus distance information and light metering data from the  
pre-flash. This method enables an accurate flash  
compensation with virtually no effect from the reflection off  
the subject.  
Pre-flash TTL  
This method controls the amount of flash light depending on  
the data only from pre-flash light metering. This method is  
susceptible to the reflection off the subject.  
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ADI: Advanced Distance Integration  
TTL: Through the lens  
• When [ADI flash] is selected, using a lens that is provided with a distance  
encoder feature can perform more accurate flash compensation by using  
more accurate distance information.  
Notes  
• When the distance between the subject and the external flash (not supplied) cannot  
be determined (wireless flash shooting using an external flash (not supplied),  
shooting with an off-camera flash using a cable, shooting with a macro twin flash,  
etc.), the camera automatically selects Pre-flash TTL mode.  
• Select [Pre-flash TTL] in the following cases, as the camera cannot perform flash  
compensations with ADI flash.  
– A wide panel is attached to the HVL-F36AM flash.  
– A diffuser is used for flash shooting.  
– A filter with an exposure factor, such as an ND filter, is used.  
– A close-up lens is used.  
• ADI flash is only available in combination with a lens that is provided with a  
distance encoder. To determine if the lens is equipped with a distance encoder, refer  
to the operating instructions supplied with the lens.  
Selecting the method for measuring the brightness of a  
subject (Metering mode)  
Fn button t [Metering mode] t Select the desired mode  
(Multi segment) This mode measures light on each area after dividing the total  
area into multiple areas and determines the proper exposure  
of the entire screen.  
(Center weighted) While emphasizing the central area of the screen, this mode  
measures the average brightness of the entire screen.  
(Spot)  
This mode measures light only in the spot metering circle in  
the center of the frame.  
Shooting techniques  
• Use (Multi segment) metering for general shooting.  
• When shooting a subject with strong contrast in the focus area, measure  
the light of the subject you want to shoot with the proper exposure using  
Spot metering, then perform AE lock shooting (page 83).  
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Setting ISO  
Sensitivity to light is expressed by the ISO number (recommended  
exposure index). The larger the number, the higher the sensitivity.  
ISO button  
1 Press the ISO button to display  
the ISO screen.  
2 Select the desired value with v/V on the controller.  
• The larger the number, the higher the noise level.  
Notes  
• When ISO is set to [AUTO], ISO is automatically set as follows.  
Recording mode  
AUTO, Scene Selection  
P, A, S  
ISO  
The range differs depending on the mode  
100 – 400  
• The [AUTO] setting is not provided in recording mode M. If you change the  
recording mode to M with the [AUTO] setting, it is switched to [100]. Set the ISO  
according to your shooting conditions.  
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Adjusting the color tones (White balance)  
The color tone of the subject changes depending on the characteristics of  
the light source. The table below shows how the color tone changes based  
on various light sources, compared with a subject that appears white under  
the sunlight.  
Daylight  
Cloudy  
Fluorescent  
Incandescent  
Weather/  
lighting  
Characteristics  
of light  
White  
Bluish  
Green-tinged  
Reddish  
White balance is a feature that adjusts the color tone to approximate what  
you see. Use this feature when the color tone of the image did not come out  
as you expected, or when you want to change the color tone on purpose for  
photographic expression.  
Note  
• If the only light source available is a mercury lamp or a sodium lamp, the camera  
will not be able to acquire the accurate white balance because of the characteristics  
of the light source. Use the flash in such cases.  
Adjusting the white balance to suit a specific light source  
(Auto/Preset white balance)  
Fn button t [White balance] t Select the desired setting  
• When [AWB] is not selected, you can finely adjust the color tone with b/  
B on the controller. Adjusting it toward + turns the image reddish and  
adjusting it toward – turns the image bluish.  
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AWB (Auto WB)  
The camera automatically detects a light source and adjusts  
the color tones.  
(Daylight)  
(Shade)  
If you select an option to suit a specific light source, the color  
tones are adjusted for the light source (preset white balance).  
(Cloudy)  
(Tungsten)  
(Fluorescent)  
(Flash)  
Shooting techniques  
• Use the white balance bracket function if you cannot get the desired color  
• When you select [5500K] (ColorTemperature) or [00] (Color filter), you  
can adjust the value to the desired value (below).  
• When you select  
(Custom), you can register your setting (page 93).  
Setting the color temperature and a filter effect (Color  
Temperature/Color filter)  
Fn button t [White balance] t [5500K] (ColorTemperature) or  
[00] (Color filter)  
• To set the color temperature, select the value with b/B.  
• To set the color filter, select the compensation direction with b/B.  
Note  
• Since color meters are designed for film cameras, the values differ under fluorescent/  
sodium lamp/mercury lamps. We recommend that you use the custom white balance  
or do a test shooting.  
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5500K*1  
Sets the white balance by the color temperature. The higher  
(ColorTemperature) the number, the more reddish the image and the lower the  
number, the more bluish the image.  
00*2 (Color filter)  
Achieves the effect of CC (Color Compensation) filters for  
photography.  
Based on using the set color temperature as the standard, the  
color can be compensated to G (Green) or M (Magenta).  
*1  
The value is the color temperature value currently selected.  
The value is the Color filter value currently selected.  
*2  
Registering the color tones (Custom white balance)  
In a scene where the ambient light consists of multiple types of light source,  
use of custom white balance is recommended in order to accurately  
reproduce the whiteness.  
1 Fn button t [White balance] t  
2 Select [  
SET] with b/B on the controller.  
3 Hold the camera so that the white area fully covers the spot-  
metering circle and press the shutter button down.  
The shutter clicks and the calibrated values (ColorTemperature and Color  
filter) are displayed.  
4 Press the center of the controller.  
The monitor returns to the recording information display with the memorized  
custom white balance setting retained.  
• The custom white balance setting is registered in this operation is effective  
until a new setting is registered.  
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Note  
• The message “Custom WB error” indicates that the value is beyond the expected  
range. (When the flash is used on a subject in close proximity or a subject with a  
bright color is in the frame.) If you register this value, the  
indicator turns yellow  
on the recording information display on the LCD monitor. You can shoot at this  
point, but it is recommended that you set the white balance again to get a more  
correct white balance value.  
To call the custom white balance setting  
Fn button t [White balance] t  
(Custom)  
Note  
• If the flash is used when the shutter button is pressed, a custom white balance is  
registered with the flash light taken into account. Take pictures with the flash in later  
shootings.  
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Image processing  
Correcting the brightness of the image (D-Range  
Optimizer)  
Fn button t [D-RangeOptimizer] t Select the desired setting  
(Off)  
No optimization.  
(Standard)  
When there is a sharp contrast of light and shadow between  
the subject and the background, which is common when  
shooting into the sun, the camera attenuates the contrast  
across the entire image to produce an image with proper  
brightness and contrast.  
(Advanced)  
By dividing the image into small areas, the camera analyses  
the contrast of light and shadow between the subject and the  
background, producing the image with the optimal brightness  
and gradation.  
(Advanced) of D-Range Optimizer has no effect on RAW files.  
Correct images using the D-Range Optimizer function of “Image Data  
Converter SR.”  
Selecting your desired image processing (Creative Style)  
MENU button t  
1 t [Creative Style] t Select the desired  
setting  
• When you want to adjust (Contrast), (Saturation), or  
(Sharpness), select the desired item with b/B, then adjust the value with  
v/V.  
(Standard)  
For shooting various scenes with rich gradation and beautiful  
colors.  
(Vivid)  
The saturation and contrast are heightened for shooting  
striking images of colorful scenes and subjects such as  
flowers, spring greenery, blue sky, or ocean views.  
(Portrait)  
For shooting the skin color in a soft tone, ideally suited to  
shooting portraits.  
(Landscape) The saturation, contrast, and sharpness are heightened for  
shooting vivid and crisp scenery. Distant landscapes also  
stand out more.  
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(Night view) The contrast is attenuated for shooting a nightscape that is  
more faithful to the real view.  
(Sunset)  
(B/W)  
For shooting the beautiful red of the setting sun.  
For shooting images in black and white monotone.  
(Adobe RGB) For shooting images in Adobe RGB color space.  
(Contrast), (Saturation), and  
Creative Style item.  
(Sharpness) can be adjusted for each  
(Contrast)  
The difference of light and shadow in an image (gradation).  
Increase the value to get an image with strong contrast.  
Decrease the value for a softer finish.  
(Saturation)  
(Sharpness)  
The vividness of the colors. Increase the value for an image  
with deep and vivid colors. Decrease the value for a quiet  
finish.  
The degree of highlighting of the contours. Increase the value  
for a more crisp finish. Decrease the value for a softer finish.  
About Adobe RGB color space  
Adobe RGB color space has a wide range of color reproduction, compared  
to sRGB that is the standard color space of the digital camera. If the main  
purpose is to print out the image, especially when a large part of the subject  
is vivid green or red, Adobe RGB is more effective than other sRGB color  
modes.  
• The file name of the image starts with “_DSC.”  
Notes  
• If the Scene Selection is used, you cannot change the settings for the Creative Style.  
• When  
(B/W) is selected, you cannot adjust the saturation.  
(Adobe RGB) is for applications or printers that support color management and  
DCF2.0 option color space. Using some applications or printers that do not support  
them may result in or print images that do not reproduce faithful color.  
• When displaying images that were recorded with  
(Adobe RGB) on the camera  
or non-Adobe RGB-compliant devices, the images are displayed with low  
saturation.  
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Selecting the drive mode  
This camera has five drive modes, such as single-shot advanced,  
continuous advanced. Use them for your purpose.  
Shooting single shot  
This mode is for normal shooting.  
button t  
(Single-shot adv.)  
Shooting continuously  
The camera records the images continuously at a following speed*.  
DSLR-A350  
Maximum 2 images per Maximum 2 images per  
second second  
Maximum 2.5 images per Maximum 3 images per  
second second  
DSLR-A300  
Live view mode  
Viewfinder mode  
* Our measurement conditions. The speed of continuous shooting is slower,  
depending on shooting conditions.  
1
button t  
(Continuous adv.)  
2 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.  
• When you press and hold the shutter button, the recording continues.  
• The number of images that can be shot continuously is indicated.  
The maximum number of continuous shots  
The number of continuous shooting images obtainable has an upper limit.  
Fine/Standard*  
RAW & JPEG  
RAW  
No limit (Until the memory card is full)  
3 images  
4 images (DSLR-A350)/6 images (DSLR-A300)  
* The shooting speed becomes a little slower for fourth image or later.  
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Using the self-timer  
The 10-second self-timer is convenient when the photographer appears in a  
photo and the 2-second self-timer is convenient to reduce the camera shake.  
1
button t  
• The number after  
(Self-timer) t Select the desired seconds  
is the number of seconds that is currently selected.  
2 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.  
• When the self-timer is activated, audio signals and the self-timer lamp  
indicate the condition. The self-timer lamp flashes quickly and the audio  
signal sounds quickly right before the shooting.  
To cancel the self-timer  
To cancel the activated self-timer, press the  
button.  
Note  
• When you shoot images using the viewfinder, use the eyepiece cover (page 27).  
Shooting images with the exposure shifted (Exposure  
bracket)  
+ direction  
Base exposure  
– direction  
Bracket shooting allows you to shoot several images, each with different  
degrees of exposure. This camera is equipped with an auto bracket  
function. Specify the value of deviation (steps) from the base exposure, and  
the camera shoots while automatically shifting the exposure. You can  
choose an image that has the brightness you like after shooting is finished.  
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1
button t Desired bracket t Desired bracket step  
2 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.  
The base exposure is set at the first shot in the bracket.  
* (Bracket:  
Shoots three images with the exposure shifted by a selected  
step.  
Press and hold the shutter button until the recording stops.  
Cont.)  
* (Bracket:  
Single)  
Shoots three images with the exposure shifted by a selected  
step.  
Press the shutter button shot by shot.  
* _ ._ EV displayed with  
/
is the step currently selected.  
Notes  
• When the mode dial is set to M, the exposure is shifted by adjusting the shutter  
speed. If you shift the exposure by adjusting the aperture value, press and hold the  
AEL button.  
• When you adjust the exposure, the exposure is shifted based on the compensated  
value.  
• The bracket cannot be used when the recording mode is set to AUTO or Scene  
Selection.  
The EV scale in bracket shooting  
Ambient bracket  
Flash bracket  
0.3 steps, three shots  
Exposure compensation 0  
0.7 steps, three shots  
Flash compensation –1.0  
LCD monitor (Live view  
mode)  
LCD monitor  
(Viewfinder mode)  
Shown in the top row.  
Shown in the bottom row.  
Viewfinder  
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• In ambient* bracket shooting, the EV scale appears on the LCD monitor/  
in the viewfinder, too, but it does not appear in flash bracket shooting.  
• When the bracket shooting starts, the indexes that indicate already  
recorded images start to disappear one by one.  
• When Single bracket is selected in viewfinder mode, if the shutter button  
is pressed halfway down and released, “br 1” appears for the ambient  
light bracket and “Fbr 1” appears for the flash bracket. When bracket  
shooting starts, it indicates what number the next frame is, for instance,  
“br 2,” “br 3.”  
* Ambient light: Any light other than the flash light that shines on the scene  
for an extended period of time, such as natural light, a light bulb, or a  
fluorescent light.  
Shooting with white balance shifted (WB bracket)  
Based on the selected white balance, and color temperature/color filter,  
three images are taken.  
1
button t  
(WB bracket) t Select the desired  
setting  
2 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.  
*1 (WB  
Shoots three images with the white balance shifted. When Lo  
bracket)  
is selected, it is shifted by 10 mired*2, and when Hi is  
selected, it is shifted by 20 mired. One shot records three  
images.  
*1  
*2  
The value displayed with  
Mired: a unit to indicate the color conversion quality in color temperature filters.  
is the value currently selected.  
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Using the viewing function  
Playing back images  
The last recorded image is displayed on the LCD monitor.  
1 Press the  
button.  
button  
2 Select an image with b/B on the controller.  
To return to the shooting mode  
Press the  
button again.  
To switch the recording data display  
Press the DISP button.  
Each time you press the DISP button, the screen changes as follows.  
Displays previous or  
next images, up to five  
images.  
Without recording  
data  
Histogram display  
With recording  
data  
With recording  
data  
Note  
• The DISP button switches the recording data display on and off in other playback  
modes, such as on an enlarged screen.  
To select the orientation when playing back an image recorded in the  
portrait position  
MENU button t  
2 t [PlaybackDisplay] t Select the  
desired setting  
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Note  
• When you play back the image on a TV or a computer, the image will be displayed  
in the portrait position even if [Manual rotate] is selected.  
Rotating an image  
1 Display the image you want to  
rotate, then press the  
button.  
button  
2 Press the center of the controller.  
The image is rotated counter-clockwise. When you want to do another  
rotation, repeat step 2.  
• Once you rotate the image, the image is played back in the rotated position,  
even if you turn off the power.  
To return to the normal playback screen  
Press the  
button.  
Note  
• When you copy rotated images to a computer, “Picture Motion Browser” contained  
on the CD-ROM (supplied) can display the rotated images correctly. However, the  
images may not be rotated depending on the software.  
Enlarging images  
An image can be enlarged for closer examination. This is convenient to  
check the focus condition of a recorded image.  
1 Display the image you want to  
enlarge, then press the button.  
button  
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2 Zoom the image in or out with the  
or button.  
• You can select the portion you want to  
enlarge with v/V/b/B on the  
controller.  
• Rotating the control dial switches the  
image at the same display  
button  
magnification. When you shoot  
multiple images with the same  
composition, you can compare their  
focus conditions.  
• Each time you press the center of the  
controller, the screen changes between  
the zoomed screen and the full-screen  
mode.  
To cancel the enlarged playback  
Press the  
button so that the image returns to the normal size.  
To enlarge the image centering around the previously selected point  
You can select a portion of an image first, then enlarge the portion.  
1 Display the image you want to  
enlarge, then press the  
button.  
button  
2 Press the center of the controller.  
The red frame appears.  
3 Move the red frame to the center point you want to enlarge with  
v/V/b/B on the controller.  
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4 Scale up or down the red frame to specify the portion you want  
to enlarge with the or button.  
5 Press the center of the controller.  
The portion inside the red frame is enlarged.  
• Press the center of the controller to return to the previous screen.  
• To cancel the enlarged playback, press the  
button.  
Scaling range  
The scaling range is as follows.  
Scaling range  
Image size  
DSLR-A350  
DSLR-A300  
L
Approx. ×1.1 – ×14  
Approx. ×1.1 – ×11  
Approx. ×1.1 – ×7.2  
Approx. ×1.1 – ×12  
Approx. ×1.1 – ×9.1  
Approx. ×1.1 – ×6.1  
M
S
Switching to the display of the image list  
button.  
button  
1 Press the  
The screen changes to the index screen.  
2 Press the DISP button repeatedly  
to select the desired screen  
format.  
• The screen changes in the following  
order: 9 images t 25 images t 4  
images  
DISP button  
To return to the single-image screen  
Press the  
button or the center of the controller when you select the  
desired image.  
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To select a folder  
1 Select the folder bar with b/B on  
the controller, then press the  
center.  
Folder bar  
2 Select the desired folder with v/V, then press the center.  
Playing back images automatically (Slide show)  
MENU button t  
2 t [Slide show]  
Plays back recorded images in order (Slide show). The slide show  
automatically stops after all the images have been played back.  
• You can view the previous/next image with b/B on the controller.  
To pause the slide show  
Press the center of the controller. Pressing again starts the slide show again.  
To end in the middle of the slide show  
Press the MENU button.  
To choose the interval between the images in slide show  
MENU button t  
2 t [Interval] t Select the desired  
number of seconds  
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Checking the information of recorded  
images  
Each time you press the DISP button, the information display changes  
Basic information display  
Display  
Indication  
100-0003 Folder - file number  
-
Protect (109)  
DPOF3  
Image quality (115)  
Image size (114)/Aspect  
Battery remaining  
warning (17)  
1/125  
F3.5  
Aperture (59)  
ISO100  
ISO sensitivity (90)  
2008 1 1 Date of recording  
10:37AM  
3/7  
File number/total number  
of images  
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Histogram display  
A
Display  
35mm  
Indication  
Focal length (149)  
Creative Style (95)  
Display  
Indication  
100-0003 Folder - file number  
-
Protect (109)  
DPOF3  
DPOF set (141)  
Image quality (115)  
AWB +1 White balance (Auto,  
5500K M1 Preset, Color  
temperature, Color filter,  
Custom) (91)  
D-Range Optimizer (95)  
Image size (114)/Aspect  
2008 1 1 Date of recording  
10:37AM  
Battery remaining  
warning (17)  
3/7  
File number/total number  
of images  
B
Display  
Indication  
Histogram (108)  
P A S M Mode dial (48)  
1/125  
F3.5  
Aperture (59)  
ISO100  
ISO sensitivity (90)  
EV scale (63, 99)  
Flash compensation (88)  
Metering mode (89)  
–0.3  
–0.3  
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How to check the histogram  
When the image has a high-key or low-  
key portion, that portion is flashed on the  
histogram display (Luminance limit  
warning).  
Flashing  
R (Red)  
Luminance  
G (Green)  
B (Blue)  
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Protecting images (Protect)  
You can protect images against accidental erasure.  
Protecting selected images/canceling the protection of the  
selected images  
1 MENU button t  
1 t [Protect] t [Marked images]  
-
2 Select the image you want to  
protect with b/B on the  
controller, then press the center  
of the controller.  
A - mark appears on the selected  
image.  
• To cancel a selection, press the center  
again.  
3 To protect other images, repeat step 2.  
4 Press the MENU button.  
5 Select [OK] with v on the controller, then press the center of  
the controller.  
Protecting all the images/canceling the protection of all the  
images  
MENU button t  
1 t [Protect] t [All images] or [Cancel  
all] t [OK]  
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Deleting images (Delete)  
Once you have deleted an image, you cannot restore it. Check whether you  
delete the image or not beforehand.  
Note  
• Protected images cannot be deleted.  
Deleting the image that is currently displayed  
1 Display the image you want to  
delete and press the  
button.  
button  
2 Select [Delete] with v, then press the center of the controller.  
Deleting the selected images  
1 MENU button t  
1 t [Delete] t [Marked images]  
2 Select the images you want to  
delete with the controller, then  
press the center of the controller.  
A
mark appears on the selected  
image.  
Total number  
3 To delete other images, repeat step 2.  
4 Press the MENU button.  
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5 Select [Delete] with v on the controller, then press the center  
of the controller.  
Deleting all the images in the folder  
1 Press the  
button.  
2 Select the folder bar with b on  
the controller.  
Folder bar  
3 Press the center of the controller, then select the folder you  
want to delete with v/V.  
4 Press the button.  
5 Select [Delete] with v, then press the center of the controller.  
Deleting all the images all at once  
MENU button t  
1 t [Delete] t [All images] t [Delete]  
Note  
• It may take a long time to delete a lot of images by selecting [All images]. It is  
recommended that you delete images on a computer or format the memory card  
using the camera.  
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Viewing images on a TV screen  
1 Turn off both your camera and the  
1 To video input jack  
TV, and connect the camera to the  
TV.  
Video cable  
2 To the  
VIDEO OUT  
terminal  
2 Turn on the TV and switch the input.  
• See also the operating instructions supplied with the TV.  
3 Turn on the camera, and press the  
button.  
Images shot with the camera appear on  
the TV screen.  
Select the desired image with b/B on the  
controller.  
• The LCD monitor on the rear of the  
camera does not turned on.  
Controller  
button  
• If you connect the camera to a Sony TV that is compatible with the “PhotoTV HD”  
feature using the supplied USB cable, you can enjoy higher quality images on the  
TV.  
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To use your camera abroad  
It may be necessary to switch the video signal output to match that of your  
TV system.  
MENU button t  
1 t [Video output] t Select the desired  
setting  
NTSC  
Sets the video output signal to NTSC mode (e.g., for the  
USA, Japan).  
PAL  
Sets the video output signal to PAL mode (e.g., for Europe).  
On TV color systems  
If you want to view images on a TV screen, you need a TV with a video  
input jack and the video cable. The color system of the TV must match that  
of your digital still camera. Check the following lists for the TV color  
system of the country or region where the camera is used.  
NTSC system  
Bahama Islands, Bolivia, Canada, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador,  
Jamaica, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Peru, Surinam, Taiwan, the Philippines, the U.S.A.,  
Venezuela, etc.  
PAL system  
Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany,  
Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway,  
Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand,  
United Kingdom, etc.  
PAL-M system  
Brazil  
PAL-N system  
Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay  
SECAM system  
Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine, etc.  
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Changing your setup  
Setting image size and image quality  
Image size  
MENU button t  
1 t [Image size] t Select the desired size  
[Aspect ratio]: [3:2]  
DSLR-A350  
L:14M  
4592 × 3056 pixels  
3408 × 2272 pixels  
2288 × 1520 pixels  
M:7.7M  
S:3.5M  
DSLR-A300  
L:10M  
3872 × 2592 pixels  
2896 × 1936 pixels  
1920 × 1280 pixels  
M:5.6M  
S:2.5M  
[Aspect ratio]: [16:9]  
DSLR-A350  
L:12M  
4592 × 2576 pixels  
3408 × 1920 pixels  
2288 × 1280 pixels  
M:6.5M  
S:2.9M  
DSLR-A300  
L:8.4M  
M:4.7M  
S:2.1M  
3872 × 2176 pixels  
2896 × 1632 pixels  
1920 × 1088 pixels  
Note  
• When you select a RAW file with [Quality], the image size of the RAW file  
corresponds to L. This size is not displayed on the LCD monitor.  
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Aspect ratio  
MENU button t  
1 t [Aspect ratio] t Select the desired  
ratio  
3:2  
A normal ratio.  
An HDTV ratio.  
16:9  
Quality  
MENU button t  
(RAW)  
1 t [Quality] t Select the desired setting  
File format: RAW (raw data)  
This format does not perform any digital processing on the  
images. Select this format to process images on a computer  
for professional purposes.  
• The image size is fixed to the maximum size. The image  
size is not displayed on the LCD monitor.  
(RAW &  
JPEG)  
File format: RAW (raw data) + JPEG  
A RAW image and a JPEG image are created at the same  
time. This is suitable when you need two image files, a JPEG  
for viewing, and a RAW for editing. The image quality is  
fixed to [Fine] and the image size is fixed to [L].  
(Fine)  
File format: JPEG  
The image is compressed in the JPEG format when recorded.  
The higher the compression rate, the smaller the file size.  
This will allow more files to be recorded in one memory card,  
but the image quality will be lower.  
(Standard)  
Note  
• For details on the number of images that can be taken when the image quality is  
changed, see page 29.  
About RAW files  
You need the “Image Data Converter SR” software included on the CD-ROM  
(supplied) in order to open a RAW file recorded on this camera. With this software, a  
RAW file can be opened and converted to a common format, such as JPEG or TIFF,  
and its white balance, color saturation, contrast, etc., can be readjusted.  
• Recording a RAW format image entails the following limitation.  
– The RAW file cannot be printed using a DPOF (print) designated printer or a  
PictBridge compliant printer.  
• You cannot verify the effects of D-Range Optimizer other than those of  
(Standard) if you play back and enlarge an image recorded in RAW format.  
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Setting the method for recording on a  
memory card  
Selecting the method for assigning file numbers to images  
MENU button t  
2 t [File number] t Select the desired  
setting  
Series  
The camera does not reset numbers and assigns numbers to  
files in sequence until the number reaches “9999.”  
Reset  
The camera resets numbers in the following cases and assigns  
numbers to files from “0001.”  
– When the folder format is changed.  
– When all the images in the folder are deleted.  
– When the memory card is replaced.  
– When the memory card is formatted.  
Selecting the folder name format  
The recorded images are stored in the automatically-created folder in the  
DCIM folder on the memory card.  
MENU button t  
2 t [Folder name] t Select the desired  
setting  
Standard form  
The folder name format is as follows: folder number +  
MSDCF.  
Example: 100MSDCF  
Date form  
The folder name format is as follows: folder number + Y (the  
last digit)/MM/DD.  
Example: 10080405  
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Creating a new folder  
You can create a folder in a memory card for recording images.  
A new folder is created with a number incremented one higher than the  
largest number currently used, and the folder becomes the current recording  
folder.  
MENU button t  
2 t [New folder]  
Selecting the recording folder  
When a standard form folder is selected and there are two or more folders,  
you can select the recording folder to be used to record images.  
MENU button t  
2 t [Select folder]t Select the desired  
folder  
Note  
• You cannot select the folder when you are setting [Date form].  
Formatting the memory card  
Note that formatting irrevocably erases all data on a memory card,  
including protected images.  
MENU button t  
1 t [Format]t [OK]  
• During the format, the access lamp lights up. Do not eject the memory  
card while the lamp is lit.  
Notes  
• Format the memory card using the camera. If you format it on a computer, the  
memory card may not be usable with the camera, depending on the format type used.  
• Formatting may take several minutes depending on the memory card.  
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Changing the noise reduction setting  
Disabling the noise reduction at a long exposure shooting  
When you set the shutter speed to a second or longer (Long exposure  
shooting), the noise reduction is turned on for the same duration as the  
shutter was open.  
This is to reduce the grainy noise typical in a long exposure. When noise  
reduction is in progress, a message appears and you cannot take another  
picture. Select [On] to prioritize the image quality. Select [Off] to prioritize  
the timing of shooting.  
MENU button t  
2 t [Long exp.NR] t [Off]  
Note  
• Noise reduction is not performed on continuous shooting or continuous bracketing  
even when it is set to [On].  
Disabling the noise reduction at a high ISO sensitivity  
When shooting with the ISO set at 1600 or above, the camera reduces the  
noise that becomes more noticeable when the camera sensitivity is high.  
Select [On] to prioritize the image quality. Select [Off] to prioritize the  
timing of shooting.  
MENU button t  
2 t [High ISO NR] t [Off]  
Note  
• Noise reduction is not performed on continuous shooting or continuous bracketing  
even when it is set to [On].  
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Changing the conditions under which the  
shutter can be released  
Prioritizing the shutter opportunity  
To prioritize the shutter opportunity, select [Release] so you can shoot  
without acquiring a sharp focus.  
To shoot with a sharp focus, select [AF].  
MENU button t  
2 t [Priority setup] t [Release]  
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Changing the functions of the button and  
dial  
Changing the function of the AEL button  
The function of the AEL button can be selected from the following two  
functions:  
– Holding the locked exposure value by pressing the AEL button while  
the button is held down ([AEL hold]).  
– Holding the locked exposure value by pressing the AEL button until the  
button is pressed again ([AEL toggle]).  
MENU button t  
1 t [AEL button] t Select the desired  
setting  
Notes  
• While the exposure value is locked,  
appears on the LCD monitor and in the  
viewfinder. Be careful not to reset the setting.  
• The “Hold” and “Toggle” settings affect the manual shift (page 64) in the manual  
mode.  
Changing the function of the control dial  
When the recording mode is M (Manual exposure) or P (Program shift),  
you can set the camera to that the adjustable item (the shutter speed or the  
aperture value) can be selected using only the control dial.  
It is convenient that you select commonly-used one when adjusting the  
exposure.  
MENU button t  
1 t [Ctrl dial setup] t Select the desired  
setting  
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Changing other settings  
Setting the sound on/off  
Selects the sound produced when the shutter is locked, during self-timer  
countdown, etc.  
MENU button t  
2 t [Audio signals] t Select the desired  
setting  
Setting the time to turn the camera to the power save mode  
You can set the time to turn the camera to the power saving mode (Power  
save). Pressing the shutter button halfway down returns the camera to the  
shooting mode.  
MENU button t  
1 t [Power save] t Select the desired  
time  
Note  
• Regardless of the setting here, the camera turns to power save mode after 30 minutes  
when the camera is connected to a TV.  
Setting the date  
MENU button t  
1 t [Date/Time setup] t Set up the date  
and time  
Selecting the language  
MENU button t  
1 t [ Language] t Select the language  
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Setting the LCD monitor  
Setting the brightness of the LCD monitor  
MENU button t  
1 t [LCD brightness] t Select the desired  
setting  
• On the recording information or playback screen, you can adjust the  
brightness by pressing the DISP button a little longer.  
Setting the displayed time of the image right after shooting  
(Auto review)  
You can check the recorded image on the LCD monitor right after the  
shooting. You can change the displayed time.  
MENU button t  
1 t [Auto review] t Select the desired  
setting  
Note  
• In auto review, the image will not be displayed in the vertical position even if you  
shot the image in a vertical position (page 101).  
Setting the displayed time of the LCD monitor during  
shooting  
During shooting, the recording information display appears on the LCD  
monitor. You can change the displayed time of the display.  
MENU button t  
1 t [Info.disp.time] t Select the desired  
setting  
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Keeping on the LCD monitor while looking into the  
viewfinder  
When the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch is set to “OVF,” looking into the  
viewfinder turns off the LCD monitor.  
In the default setting, while looking into the viewfinder, the LCD monitor  
is turned off to prevent the battery pack wearing down.  
If you want to turn on the LCD monitor while looking into the viewfinder,  
select [Off].  
MENU button t  
1 t [Auto off w/ VF] t [Off]  
Note  
• Regardless of the setting in this menu, the recording information display  
automatically turns off after a set duration (five seconds in the default setting)  
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Resetting to the default  
Resetting the functions used for shooting to the default  
setting  
You can reset the main functions of the recording mode when the mode dial  
is set to P, A, S, or M.  
MENU button t  
2 t [Rec mode reset] t [OK]  
The items to be reset are as follows.  
Items  
Reset to  
Exposure compensation (85)  
Metering mode (89)  
Autofocus mode (74)  
0.0  
Multi segment  
AF-A  
Single-shot adv.  
AWB (Auto white balance)  
5500K, Color filter 0  
5500K  
ColorTemperature/Color filter (92)  
Custom white balance (93)  
AUTO  
Image size (114)  
L:14M (DSLR-A350)/  
L:10M (DSLR-A300)  
Aspect ratio (115)  
3:2  
Fine  
D-RangeOptimizer (95)  
Creative Style (95)  
Flash mode (81)  
Standard  
Standard  
Fill-flash (differs based on whether the  
built-in flash is open or not)  
Flash control (88)  
Flash compens. (88)  
Priority setup (119)  
AF illuminator (80)  
Long exp.NR (118)  
High ISO NR (118)  
ADI flash  
0.0  
AF  
Auto  
On  
On  
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Resetting the main functions of the camera to the default  
setting  
You can reset the main functions of the camera.  
MENU button t  
3 t [Reset default] t [OK]  
The items to be reset are as follows.  
Items  
Reset to  
Exposure compensation (85)  
Metering mode (89)  
Autofocus mode (74)  
Recording information display (69)  
0.0  
Multi segment  
AF-A  
Enlarged display  
Single-shot adv.  
AWB (Auto white balance)  
5500K, Color filter 0  
5500K  
ColorTemperature/Color filter (92)  
Custom white balance (93)  
AUTO  
Playback display (101)  
Single-image screen (with recording  
data)  
Image size (114)  
L:14M (DSLR-A350)/  
L:10M (DSLR-A300)  
Aspect ratio (115)  
3:2  
Fine  
D-RangeOptimizer (95)  
Creative Style (95)  
Flash mode (81)  
Standard  
Standard  
Fill-flash (differs based on whether the  
built-in flash is open or not)  
Flash control (88)  
Flash compens. (88)  
Priority setup (119)  
AF illuminator (80)  
Long exp.NR (118)  
High ISO NR (118)  
ADI flash  
0.0  
AF  
Auto  
On  
On  
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Custom menu  
Items  
Reset to  
On  
Eye-Start AF (67)  
AEL button (120)  
Ctrl dial setup (120)  
Red eye reduc. (80)  
AEL hold  
Shutter speed  
Off  
2 sec  
On  
Playback menu  
Items  
Reset to  
Off  
Date imprint (142)  
PlaybackDisplay (101)  
Slide show (105)  
Auto rotate  
3 sec  
Setup menu  
Items  
Reset to  
0
LCD brightness (122)  
Info.disp.time (122)  
File number (116)  
Folder name (116)  
USB connection (128, 143)  
Audio signals (121)  
5 sec  
1 min  
Series  
Standard form  
Mass Storage  
On  
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Viewing images on a computer  
Copying images to your computer  
This section describes how to copy images in a memory card to a computer  
connected using a USB cable.  
Recommended computer environment  
The following environment is recommended for a computer connected to  
the camera to import images.  
x Windows  
OS (pre-installed): Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional SP4/ Windows  
XP* SP2/Windows Vista*  
• Operation is not assured in an environment based on an upgrade of the  
operating systems described above or in a multi-boot environment.  
* 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported.  
USB jack: Provided as standard  
x Macintosh  
OS (pre-installed): Mac OS X (v10.1.3 or later)  
USB jack: Provided as standard  
Notes on connecting your camera to a computer  
• Operations are not guaranteed for all the recommended computer environments  
mentioned above.  
• If you connect two or more USB devices to a single computer at the same time, some  
devices, including your camera, may not operate, depending on the types of USB  
devices you are using.  
• Operations are not guaranteed when using a USB hub or an extension cable.  
• Connecting your camera using a USB interface that is compatible with Hi-Speed  
USB (USB 2.0 compliant) allows advanced transfer (high speed transfer) as this  
camera is compatible with Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 compliant).  
• When your computer resumes from a suspend or sleep mode, communication  
between your camera and your computer may not recover at the same time.  
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Stage 1: Connecting the camera and your computer  
1 Insert a memory card with recorded images into the camera.  
2 Insert the sufficiently charged battery pack in the camera, or  
connect the camera to a wall outlet (wall socket) with the AC  
Adaptor/charger (not supplied).  
• When you copy images to your computer using insufficient battery pack,  
copying may fail or image data may become corrupted if the battery pack  
shuts down too soon.  
3 Turn on the camera and the computer.  
4 Check that [USB connection] in  
2 is set to [Mass Storage].  
5 Connect the camera and your  
computer.  
1 To the USB  
terminal  
• The AutoPlay wizard appears on the  
desktop.  
USB cable  
2 To the  
USB terminal  
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Stage 2: Copying images to a computer  
For Windows  
This section describes an example of copying images to a “My Documents”  
(For Windows Vista: “Documents”) folder.  
1 Click [Copy pictures to a folder on  
my computer using Microsoft  
Scanner and Camera Wizard] t  
[OK] as the wizard screen appears  
automatically on the desktop.  
• When the wizard screen does not  
appear, click [My Computer] t  
[Removable Disk].  
2 Double-click [DCIM].  
• In that case, you can also import images using “Picture Motion Browser.”  
3 Double-click the folder where the  
image files you want to copy are  
stored.  
Then, right-click an image file to  
display the menu and click  
[Copy].  
• On the storage destination of the image  
files, see page 132.  
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4 Double-click the [My Documents]  
(For Windows Vista:  
[Documents]) folder. Then, right-  
click on the “My Documents”  
window to display the menu and  
click [Paste].  
The image files are copied to the “My  
Documents” (For Windows Vista:  
“Documents”) folder.  
• When an image with the same file  
name exists in the copy destination  
folder, the overwrite confirmation  
message appears. When you overwrite  
an existing image with a new one, the  
original file data is deleted. To copy an  
image file to the computer without  
overwriting, change the file name to a  
different name and then copy the image  
file. However, note that if you change  
the file name, you may not be able to  
play back that image with your camera  
For Macintosh  
1 Double-click the newly recognized icon t [DCIM] t the  
folder where the images you want to copy are stored.  
2 Drag and drop the image files to the hard disk icon.  
The image files are copied to the hard disk.  
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Viewing images on your computer  
For Windows  
This section describes the procedure for viewing copied images in the “My  
Documents” (For Windows Vista: “Documents”) folder.  
1 Click [Start] t [My Documents]  
(For Windows Vista:  
[Documents]).  
• If you are using Windows 2000,  
double-click [My Documents] on the  
desktop.  
2 Double-click the desired image  
file.  
The image is displayed.  
For Macintosh  
Double-click the hard disk icon t the desired image file to open  
the image file.  
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Deleting the USB connection  
Perform the procedures listed below beforehand when:  
• Disconnecting the USB cable.  
• Removing the memory card.  
• Turning off the camera.  
x For Windows  
Double-click  
on the tasktray, then click  
(USB Mass Storage Device)  
t [Stop]. Confirm the device on the confirmation window, then click  
[OK] t [OK] (unnecessary for Windows XP/Vista).  
The device is disconnected.  
x For Macintosh  
Drag and drop the drive icon or the icon of the memory card to the  
“Trash” icon.  
The camera is disconnected from the computer.  
Image file storage destinations and file names  
The image files recorded with your camera are grouped as folders on the  
memory card.  
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Example: viewing folders on Windows XP  
AFolders containing image data recorded  
using this camera. (The first three digits  
show the folder number.)  
BYou can create a folder by date form  
• You cannot record/play back any images in  
the “MISC” folder.  
• Image files are named as follows. ssss  
(file number) stands for any number within  
the range from 0001 to 9999. The numerical  
portions of the name of a RAW data file and  
its corresponding JPEG image file are the  
same.  
– JPEG files: DSC0ssss.JPG  
– JPEG files (Adobe RGB):  
_DSCssss.JPG  
– RAW data file (other than Adobe RGB):  
DSC0ssss.ARW  
– RAW data file (Adobe RGB):  
_DSCssss.ARW  
• The extension may not be displayed  
depending on the computer.  
• For more information about folders, see page  
116.  
Copying images stored on a computer to a memory card  
and viewing the images  
This section describes the process using a Windows computer as an  
example.  
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1 Right-click the image file, then  
click [Rename]. Change the file  
name to “DSC0ssss.”  
Enter a number from 0001 to 9999 for  
ssss.  
• If the overwrite confirmation message  
appears, enter a different number.  
• An extension may be displayed  
depending on the computer settings.  
The extension for images is JPG. Do  
not change the extension.  
• Step 1 is not necessary if the file name  
set with your camera has not been  
changed.  
2 Copy the image file to the  
memory card folder in the  
following order.  
1 Right-click the image file, then click  
[Copy].  
2 Double-click [Removable Disk] or  
[Sony MemoryStick] in [My  
Computer].  
3 Right-click the [sssMSDCF]  
folder in the [DCIM] folder, then click  
[Paste].  
sss stands for any number within  
the range from 100 to 999.  
Notes  
• You may be unable to play back some images depending on the image size.  
• When an image file has been processed by a computer or when the image file was  
recorded using a model other than that of your camera, playback on your camera is  
not guaranteed.  
• When there is no folder, first create a folder with your camera (page 117) and then  
copy the image file.  
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Using the software  
To utilize images recorded with the camera, the following software is  
provided: “Picture Motion Browser,” “Image Data Converter SR,” “Image  
Data Lightbox SR” etc.  
Note  
• “Picture Motion Browser” is not compatible with Macintosh computers.  
Recommended computer environment  
x Windows  
Recommended environment for using “Picture Motion Browser”  
OS (pre-installed): Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional SP4/Windows  
XP* SP2/Windows Vista*  
* 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported.  
CPU/Memory: Pentium III 500 MHz or faster, 256 MB of RAM or more  
(Recommended: Pentium III 800 MHz or faster and 512 MB of RAM or  
more)  
Hard Disk: Disk space required for installation—200 MB or more  
Display: 1024 × 768 dots or more, High Color (16-bit color) or more  
Recommended environment for using “Image Data Converter SR Ver.2”/  
“Image Data Lightbox SR”  
OS (pre-installed): Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional SP4/Windows  
XP* SP2/Windows Vista*  
* 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported.  
CPU/Memory: MMX Pentium III 1 GHz or faster is recommended, RAM  
512 MB or more (RAM 1 GB or more is recommended.)  
Virtual memory: 700 MB or more  
Display: 1024 × 768 dots or more, High Color (16-bit color) or more  
x Macintosh  
Recommended environment for using “Image Data Converter SR Ver.2”/  
“Image Data Lightbox SR”  
OS (pre-installed): Mac OS X (v10.4)  
CPU: Power Mac G4/G5 series (1.0 GHz or faster is recommended)/Intel  
Core Solo/Core Duo/Core 2 Duo or faster  
Memory: 512 MB or more (1 GB or more is recommended.)  
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Display: 1024 × 768 dots or more, 32,000 colors or more  
Installing the software  
You can install the software (supplied) using the following procedure.  
x Windows  
• Log on as Administrator.  
1 Turn on your computer, and insert  
the CD-ROM (supplied) into the  
CD-ROM drive.  
The installation menu screen appears.  
• If it does not appear, double-click  
(My Computer) t  
(SONYPICTUTIL) t [Install.exe].  
• Under Windows Vista, the AutoPlay  
screen may appear. Select “Run  
Install.exe” and follow the instructions  
that appear on the screen to proceed  
with the installation.  
2 Click [Install].  
Follow the instructions on the screen.  
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3 Remove the CD-ROM after the installation is complete.  
The following software is installed and shortcut icons appear on the desktop.  
• Sony Picture Utility  
“Picture Motion Browser”  
• Sony Image Data Suite  
“Image Data Converter SR”  
“Image Data Lightbox SR”  
After you install the software, a shortcut icon for the customers registration  
website is created on the desktop.  
Once you register on the website, you can get secure and useful customer  
support.  
http://www.sony.net/registration/di/  
x Macintosh  
• Log on as Administrator for installation.  
1 Turn on your Macintosh computer, and insert the CD-ROM  
(supplied) into the CD-ROM drive.  
2 Double-click the CD-ROM icon.  
3 Copy the [SIDS_INST.pkg] file in the [MAC] folder to the hard  
disk icon.  
4 Double-click the [SIDS_INST.pkg] file in the copy-to folder.  
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.  
Note  
• When the restarting confirmation message appears, restart the computer following  
the instructions on the screen.  
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Using “Picture Motion Browser”  
Note  
• “Picture Motion Browser” is not compatible with Macintosh computers.  
With “Picture Motion Browser” you can:  
• Import images shot with the camera and  
display them on the computer.  
• Organize images on the computer on a  
calendar by shooting date to view them.  
• Retouch (Red Eye Correction, etc.),  
print, and send still images as e-mail  
attachments, change the shooting date  
and more.  
• Print or save still images with the date.  
• Create a data disc using a CD burner drive or DVD burner drive.  
For details on “Picture Motion Browser,” refer to “Picture Motion Browser  
Guide.”  
To start “Picture Motion Browser Guide,” click [Start] t [All Programs]  
(in Windows 2000, [Programs]) t [Sony Picture Utility] t [Help] t  
[Picture Motion Browser Guide].  
To start “Picture Motion Browser”  
Double-click the  
(Picture Motion Browser) icon on the desktop.  
Or, from the Start menu: Click [Start] t [All Programs] (in Windows  
2000, [Programs]) t [Sony Picture Utility] t [Picture Motion Browser].  
To exit the “Picture Motion Browser,” click  
button on the upper-right  
corner of the screen.  
Note  
• The confirmation message of the Information tool appears on the screen when  
starting “Picture Motion Browser” for the first time. Select [Start]. This function  
informs you of news, such as software updates. You can change the setting later.  
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Using “Image Data Converter SR”  
Note  
• If you save an image as RAW data, the image is saved in the ARW2.0 format.  
With “Image Data Converter SR Ver.2.0” you can:  
• Edit images recorded in RAW mode with various corrections, such as  
tone curve, and sharpness.  
• Adjust images with the white balance, exposure, and creative style, etc.  
• Save the images displayed and edited on a computer. You can either save  
the image as RAW data or save it in the general file format.  
• For details on “Image Data Converter SR,” refer to the Guide.  
To start the Guide, click [Start] t [All Programs] (in Windows 2000,  
[Programs]) t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Help] t [Image Data  
Converter SR Ver.2].  
To start up “Image Data Converter SR Ver.2.0”  
x Windows  
Double-click the shortcut of “Image Data Converter SR Ver.2.0” on the  
desktop.  
When starting up from the Start menu, click [Start] t [All Programs] (For  
Windows 2000: [Programs]) t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Image Data  
Converter SR Ver.2.0].  
To exit, click the  
button on the upper-right corner of the screen.  
x Macintosh  
Double-click [Image Data Converter SR Ver.2] in the [Sony Image Data  
Suite] folder from the [Application] folder.  
To exit, click [Quit Image Data Converter SR] from the [IDC SR] menu.  
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Using “Image Data Lightbox SR”  
With “Image Data Lightbox SR” you can:  
• Display and compare RAW/JPEG images recorded with this camera.  
• Rate the images on a scale of five.  
• Display an image in “Image Data Converter SR” and make adjustments to  
it.  
• For details on “Image Data Lightbox SR,” refer to the Guide.  
To start the Guide from the Start menu, click [Start] t [All Programs] (in  
Windows 2000, [Programs]) t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Help] t  
[Image Data Lightbox SR].  
To start up “Image Data Lightbox SR”  
x Windows  
Double-click [Image Data Lightbox SR] on the desktop.  
When starting up from the Start menu, click [Start] t [All Programs] (For  
Windows 2000: [Programs]) t [Sony Image Data Suite] t [Image Data  
Lightbox SR].  
To exit, click the  
button on the upper-right corner of the screen.  
The dialogue used for saving a collection appears.  
x Macintosh  
Double-click [Image Data Lightbox SR] in the [Sony Image Data Suite]  
folder from the [Application] folder.  
To exit, click [Quit Image Data Lightbox SR] from the [Image Data  
Lightbox SR] menu.  
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Printing images  
Specifying DPOF  
Using the camera, you can specify the images and the number of images to  
print before you print images at a shop or with your printer. Follow the  
procedure below.  
DPOF specifications are left with images after printing. It is recommended  
that you unspecify them after printing.  
Specifying /unspecifying DPOF on selected images  
1 MENU button t  
1 t [DPOF setup] t [Marked images]  
An image is displayed on the single screen.  
2 Select the image with b/B on the controller.  
3 Select the number of sheets with the  
/
buttons.  
• To unspecify DPOF, set the number to “0.”  
4 Press the MENU button.  
5 Select [OK] with v on the controller, then press the center of  
the controller.  
Notes  
• You cannot specify DPOF on RAW data files.  
• You can specify any number up to 9.  
• If you unspecify DPOF, the index print is also canceled.  
Specifying/unspecifying DPOF on all the images  
MENU button t  
1 t [DPOF setup] t [All images] or  
[Cancel all] t [OK]  
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Dating images  
You can date images when printing them. The position of the date (inside  
or outside the image, character size, etc.) depends on your printer.  
MENU button t  
1 t [DPOF setup] t [Date imprint] t  
[On]  
Note  
• This function may not provided, depending on the printer.  
Creating an index print  
You can create an index print of all the images in the memory card.  
MENU button t  
1 t [DPOF setup] t [Index print] t  
[Create index]  
Notes  
• The number of images that can be printed on one sheet and the format depend on the  
printer. RAW images do not print in index print.  
• The images you shoot after setting the index print are not included in the index print.  
It is recommended that you create the index print just before printing it.  
• If you unspecify DPOF, the index print is also canceled.  
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Printing images by connecting the  
camera to a PictBridge compliant printer  
Even if you do not have a computer, you  
can print images shot using your camera  
by connecting the camera directly to a  
PictBridge compliant printer.  
“PictBridge” is based on the CIPA  
standard. (CIPA: Camera & Imaging  
Products Association)  
Note  
• You cannot print RAW data files.  
Stage 1: Setting the camera  
Note  
• It is recommended to use the AC Adaptor/charger (not supplied) to prevent the  
power from turning off partway through printing.  
1 MENU button t  
2 t [USB connection] t [PTP]  
2 Turn the camera off and insert the memory card that the images  
have been recorded on.  
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Stage 2: Connecting the camera to the printer  
1 Connect the camera to the printer.  
1 To the  
USB terminal  
USB cable  
2 To the  
USB terminal  
2 Turn on your camera and the printer.  
The screen used for selecting images you want to print appears.  
Stage 3: Printing  
1 Select the image to print with b/B on the controller, then press  
the center of the controller.  
• To cancel, press the center again.  
2 Repeat step 1 if you want to print other images.  
3 Press the MENU button and set up each item.  
• For details on setting items, see “PictBridge menu.”  
4 Select [Print] t [OK] in the menu, then press the center of the  
controller.  
The image is printed.  
• After the screen indicating that the print is completed appears, press the  
center of the controller.  
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To cancel the print  
During printing, pressing the center of the controller cancels the print.  
Remove the USB cable or turn off the camera. When you want to print  
again, follow the procedure (Stages 1 to 3) above.  
PictBridge menu  
Page 1  
Print  
Prints the selected images. For details, see “Stage 3: Printing.”  
Set print q’ty  
You can specify the number of prints, up to 20. The same number of prints is specified  
on all the selected images.  
Paper size  
Auto  
Printer setup  
89×127 mm  
9×13cm/3.5"×5"  
Hagaki  
100×147 mm  
10×15 cm  
10×15cm  
4"×6"  
101.6×152.4 mm  
105×148.5 mm  
127×178 mm  
216×279.4 mm  
210×297 mm  
297×420 mm  
A6/4.1"×5.8"  
13×18cm/5"×7"  
Letter  
A4/8.3"×11.7"  
A3/11.7"×16.5"  
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Layout  
Auto  
Printer setup  
1-up/Borderless  
1-up  
Borderless, 1 image/sheet  
1 image/sheet  
2-up  
2 images/sheet  
3 images/sheet  
4 images/sheet  
8 images/sheet  
3-up  
4-up  
8-up  
Index  
Prints all the selected images as an index  
print. Printing layout follows the printer  
setup.  
Date imprint  
Day and time  
Date  
Attaches the date and time.  
Attaches the date.  
Off  
Does not attach the date.  
Page 2  
Unmark all  
After the message appears, select [OK], then press the center of the controller. The  
DPOF mark on each image is cleared. When you cancel your specification without  
printing images, select this item.  
Print all  
Prints all the images in a memory card. After the message appears, select [OK], then  
press the center of the controller.  
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Others  
[Super SteadyShot]  
System Image sensor-Shift  
mechanism  
Specifications  
Super SteadyShot Compensation  
capability  
Camera  
Approximately 2.5 to 3.5  
EV decrease in shutter  
speed (varies according to  
shooting conditions and  
lens used)  
[System]  
Camera Type  
Digital Single Lens Reflex  
Camera with built-in flash  
and interchangeable lenses  
Lens  
All of α Lens  
[Anti-Dust]  
System  
Charge protection coating  
on Low-Pass Filter and  
image sensor-Shift  
mechanism  
[Image sensor]  
Total pixel number of camera  
DSLR-A350  
Approx. 14 900 000 pixels  
DSLR-A300  
Approx. 10 800 000 pixels  
[Auto Focus System]  
System TTL phase-detection  
Effective pixel number of camera  
DSLR-A350  
system, CCD line sensors  
(9 points, 8 lines with  
center cross-hair sensor)  
Approx. 14 200 000 pixels  
DSLR-A300  
Approx. 10 200 000 pixels  
Sensitivity Range  
0 to 18 EV (at ISO 100  
equivalent)  
Image format  
DSLR-A350  
AF illuminator  
23.5×15.7 mm (APS-C  
format) Interlace scan  
Primary Color  
Approx. 1 to 5 m (3.3 to  
16 feet)  
DSLR-A300  
[Live view]  
Type  
23.6×15.8 mm (APS-C  
format) Interlace scan  
Primary Color  
Pentamirror tilt mechanism  
Image format  
Exclusive image sensor for  
Live view  
ISO sensitivity (Recommended  
exposure index)  
Metering method  
1200-zone evaluative  
metering  
AUTO, 100 to 3200  
Metering range  
2 to 17 EV (Multi segment,  
Center weighted, Spot) (at  
ISO 100 with F1.4 lens)  
Field of View  
0.90  
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[Viewfinder]  
[Built-In-Flash]  
Type  
Fixed eye-level penta-  
Dach-mirror  
Flash G.No.  
GN 12 (in meters at ISO  
100)  
Field of View  
0.95  
Recycling time  
Approx. 4 seconds  
Magnification  
0.74 × with 50 mm lens at  
Flash coverage  
infinity, –1 m–1  
Covering 18 mm lens  
(focal length that the lens  
indicates)  
Eye Relief Approximately 20.8 mm  
from the eyepiece,  
16.7 mm from the eyepiece  
frame at –1 diopter  
Flash compensation  
2.0 EV (1/3 EV step)  
(–1 m–1)  
[Recording media]  
Dioptor Adjustment  
–3.0 to +1.0 m–1  
CompactFlash card  
(TypeI,II), Microdrive,  
“Memory Stick Duo”  
(With a Memory Stick Duo  
Adaptor for CompactFlash  
slot)  
[Exposure] (in the viewfinder mode)  
Metering Cell  
SPC  
Metering method  
40-segment honeycomb-  
pattern  
[LCD monitor]  
LCD panel 6.7 cm (2.7 type) TFT  
drive  
Metering Range  
2 to 20 EV (4 to 20 EV  
with Spot metering), (at  
ISO 100 with F1.4 lens)  
Total number of dots  
230 400 (960 × 240) dots  
[Power, general]  
Exposure compensation  
2.0 EV (1/3 EV step)  
Used battery pack  
Rechargeable battery pack  
NP-FM500H  
[Shutter]  
Type  
Electronically-controlled,  
vertical-traverse, focal-  
plane type  
[Others]  
PictBridge Compatible  
Speed range 1/4000 second to 30  
seconds, bulb, (1/3 EV  
step)  
Exif Print Compatible  
PRINT Image Matching III  
Compatible  
Flash sync speed  
1/160 second  
Dimensions Approx. 130.8 × 98.5 ×  
74.7 mm (5 1/4 × 4 ×  
3 inches) (W/H/D,  
excluding protrusions)  
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Mass  
Approx.582 g (1 lb 4.5 oz)  
(without batteries, memory  
card and body accessories)  
Maximum charge voltage  
DC 8.4 V  
Capacity  
11.8 Wh (1 650 mAh)  
Operating temperature  
0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F)  
Maximum dimensions  
Approx. 38.2 × 20.5 × 55.6  
mm (1 9/16 × 13/16 × 2 1/4  
inches) (W/H/D)  
(When using the  
Microdrive: 5 to 40°C (41  
to 104°F))  
Mass  
Approx. 78 g (2.8 oz)  
Exif  
Exif Ver.2.21  
USB communication  
Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0  
Design and specifications are subject  
to change without notice.  
compliant)  
On focal length  
BC-VM10 Battery charger  
Input rating 100 V – 240 V AC, 50/60  
Hz  
The picture angle of this camera is  
narrower than that of a 35 mm-format  
film camera. You can find the  
approximate equivalent of the focal  
length of a 35 mm-format film  
camera, and shoot with the same  
picture angle, by increasing the focal  
length of your lens by half.  
For example, by using a 50 mm lens,  
you can get the approximate  
equivalent of a 75 mm lens of a 35  
mm-format film camera.  
Output rating  
8.4 V DC, 750 mA  
Operating temperature range  
0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F)  
Storage temperature range  
–20 to +60°C (–4 to  
+140°F)  
Maximum dimensions  
Approx. 70 × 25 × 95 mm  
(2 7/8 × 1× 3 3/4 inches)  
(W/H/D)  
On image data compatibility  
• This camera conforms with DCF  
(Design rule for Camera File  
system) universal standard  
established by JEITA (Japan  
Electronics and Information  
Technology Industries  
Mass  
Approx. 90 g (3.2 oz)  
Rechargeable battery pack  
NP-FM500H  
Used battery  
Association).  
Lithium-ion battery  
• Playback of images recorded with  
your camera on other equipment  
and playback of images recorded or  
edited with other equipment on  
your camera are not guaranteed.  
Maximum voltage  
DC 8.4 V  
Nominal voltage  
DC 7.2 V  
Maximum charge current  
2.0 A  
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Trademarks  
is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
• D-Range Optimizer Advanced uses  
technology provided by Apical  
Limited.  
• In addition, system and product  
names used in this manual are, in  
general, trademarks or registered  
trademarks of their respective  
developers or manufacturers.  
However, the ™ or ® marks are not  
used in all cases in this manual.  
• “Memory Stick,”  
Stick PRO,”  
, “Memory  
,
“Memory Stick Duo,”  
, “Memory Stick  
,
PRO Duo,”  
“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo,”  
, “Memory  
Stick Micro,” “MagicGate,” and  
are trademarks of  
Sony Corporation.  
• “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of  
Sony Corporation.  
• Microsoft, Windows, and Windows  
Vista are either registered  
trademarks or trademarks of  
Microsoft Corporation in the  
United States and/or other  
countries.  
• Macintosh, Mac OS, iMac, iBook,  
PowerBook, Power Mac, and eMac  
are trademarks or registered  
trademarks of Apple Inc.  
• Intel, Intel Core, MMX, and  
Pentium are trademarks or  
registered trademarks of Intel  
Corporation.  
• CompactFlash is a trademark of  
SanDisk Corporation.  
• Microdrive is a registered  
trademark of Hitachi Global  
Storage Technologies in the United  
States and/or other countries.  
• Adobe is a registered trademark or  
a trademark of Adobe Systems  
Incorporated in the United States  
and/or other countries.  
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Troubleshooting  
If you experience trouble with your camera, try the following solutions.  
Check the items on pages 151 to 160. Consult your Sony dealer or local  
authorized Sony service facility.  
1
Check the following items.  
2
Remove the battery pack, and insert the battery pack again after  
about one minute, and turn on the power.  
3
Reset the settings (page 124).  
4
Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.  
Battery pack and power  
The battery pack cannot be installed.  
• As you insert the battery pack, use the tip of the battery pack to push the  
lock lever (page 16).  
• Check the model number of the battery pack (pages 13, 17).  
The battery remaining indicator is incorrect, or sufficient battery  
remaining indicator is displayed but the power runs out too quickly.  
• This phenomenon occurs when you use the camera in an extremely hot or  
cold location (page 163).  
• The displayed battery remaining differs from the current one. Fully  
discharge and then charge the battery pack to correct the display.  
• The battery pack is discharged. Install a charged battery pack (page 16).  
• The battery pack is dead (page 18). Replace it with new one.  
Cannot turn on the camera.  
• Install the battery pack correctly (page 16).  
• The battery pack is discharged. Install a charged battery pack (page 16).  
• The battery pack is dead (page 18). Replace it with new one.  
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The power turns off suddenly.  
• If you do not operate the camera for given period of time, the camera turns  
to power saving mode and nearly shuts down. To cancel the power save,  
operate the camera, such as pressing the shutter button halfway down  
Shooting images  
Nothing is displayed on the LCD monitor in viewfinder mode when the  
power is turned on.  
• In the default setting, the LCD monitor will turn off if no operation is  
registered for more than five seconds to minimize the battery consumption.  
You can change the time that the LCD monitor is turned off (page 121).  
• The LCD monitor is set to off. Press the DISP button to turn the LCD  
monitor on (page 39).  
The image is not clear in the viewfinder.  
• Adjust the diopter scale properly using the diopter-adjustment dial  
No images in the viewfinder.  
• The LIVE VIEW/OVF switch is set to “LIVE VIEW.” Set it to “OVF”  
The image has not been recorded.  
• A memory card is not inserted.  
The shutter does not release.  
• Check the free capacity of the memory card (page 29). If it is full, do one of  
the following:  
– Delete unnecessary images (page 110).  
– Change the memory card.  
• You cannot record images while charging the built-in flash (page 79).  
• The shutter cannot be released when the subject is out of focus (page 72).  
• The lens is not attached properly. Attach the lens properly (page 19).  
• When an astronomical telescope, etc., is attached to the camera, set the  
recording mode to M and do your shooting.  
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• You try to shoot a subject that may require special focusing (page 73). Use  
the focus-lock or manual focus function (pages 73, 75).  
Recording takes a long time.  
• The noise reduction function is turned on (page 118). This is not a  
malfunction.  
• You are shooting in RAW mode (page 115). Since the RAW data file is  
large, the RAW mode shooting may take time.  
The image is out of focus.  
• The subject is too close. Check the minimum focal distance of the lens.  
• You are shooting in manual focus mode, set the focus mode lever to AF  
(autofocus) (page 72).  
Eye-Start AF does not work.  
• Set [Eye-Start AF] to [On] (page 67).  
• Press the shutter button halfway down.  
The flash does not work.  
• The flash mode is set to [Autoflash]. If you want to make sure the flash fires  
without fail, set the flash mode to [Fill-flash] (page 81).  
Fuzzy specks appear in images shot using the flash.  
• Dust in the air reflected the flash light and appeared in the image. This is  
not a malfunction.  
The flash takes too long to recharge.  
• The flash has been fired in succession in a short period. When the flash has  
been fired in succession, the recharging process may take longer than usual  
to avoid overheating of the camera.  
A picture taken with the flash is too dark.  
• If the subject is beyond the flash range (the distance that the flash can  
reach), the pictures will be dark because the flash light does not reach the  
subject. If the ISO is changed, the flash range also changes with it  
The date and time are recorded incorrectly.  
• Set the correct date and time (pages 25, 121).  
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The aperture value and/or shutter speed flash when you press the shutter  
button halfway down.  
• Since the subject is too bright or too dark, it is beyond the available range of  
the camera. Adjust the setting again.  
The image is whitish (Flare).  
Blurring of light appears on the image (Ghosting).  
• The picture was taken under a strong light source, and excessive light has  
entered the lens. Attach a lens hood.  
The corners of the picture are too dark.  
• If any filter or hood is used, take it off and try shooting again. Depending on  
the thickness of the filter and improper attachment of the hood, the filter or  
the hood may partially appear in the image. The optical properties of some  
lenses may cause the periphery of the image to appear too dark (insufficient  
light).  
The eyes of the subject come out red.  
• Activate the red eye reduction function (page 80).  
• Get close to the subject, and shoot the subject within the flash range using  
the flash (page 80).  
Dots appear and remain on the LCD monitor.  
• This is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded (page 8).  
• You may reduce the effect of these issues using the “Pixel mapping”  
function.  
1 Set the LIVE VIEW/OVF switch to “LIVE VIEW.”  
2 Attach the lens cap.  
3 MENU button t  
3 t [Pixel mapping] t [OK]  
The image is blurred.  
• The picture was taken in a dark location without the flash, resulting in  
camera shake. The use of the Super SteadyShot function or a tripod is  
recommended. The flash can be used in this situation (page 46).  
The EV scale b B is flashing on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder.  
• The subject is too bright or too dark for the metering range of the camera.  
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The color of an image recorded in Live view mode is strange.  
• In Live view mode, carefully check the image displayed on the LCD  
monitor before shooting. The camera may not be able to recognize the color  
of the image right after switching to the Live view mode. In such cases, the  
expected result may not be obtained.  
Viewing images  
Your camera cannot play back images.  
• The folder/file name has been changed on your computer (page 133).  
• When an image file has been processed by a computer or when the image  
file was recorded using a model other than that of your camera, playback on  
your camera is not guaranteed.  
• The camera is in USB mode. Delete the USB connection (page 132).  
The image does not appear on the TV screen.  
• Check [Video output] to see if the video output signal of your camera is set  
to the color system of your TV (page 113).  
• Check whether the connection is correct (page 112).  
Deleting/Editing images  
Your camera cannot delete an image.  
• Cancel the protection (page 109).  
You have deleted an image by mistake.  
• Once you have deleted an image, you cannot restore it. We recommend that  
you protect images that you do not want to delete (page 109).  
You cannot mark a DPOF mark.  
• You cannot mark DPOF marks on RAW data files.  
Computers  
You do not know if the OS of your computer is compatible with the  
camera.  
• Check “Recommended computer environment” (pages 127, 135).  
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Your computer does not recognize your camera.  
• Check that the camera is turned on.  
• When the battery level is low, install the charged battery pack (page 16), or  
use the AC Adaptor/charger (not supplied).  
• Use the USB cable (supplied) (page 128).  
• Disconnect the USB cable, and connect it again firmly.  
• Set [USB connection] to [Mass Storage] (page 128).  
• Disconnect all equipment other than the camera, the keyboard and the  
mouse from the USB jacks of your computer.  
• Connect the camera directly to your computer without passing through a  
USB hub or other device (page 127).  
You cannot copy images.  
• Make the USB connection by properly connecting the camera with your  
• Follow the designated copy procedure for your OS (page 129).  
• When you shoot images with a memory card formatted by a computer, you  
may not be able to copy the images to a computer. Shoot using a memory  
card formatted by your camera (page 117).  
The image cannot be played back on a computer.  
• If you are using “Picture Motion Browser,” refer to the “Picture Motion  
Browser Guide.”  
• Consult the computer or software manufacturer.  
After making a USB connection, “Picture Motion Browser” does not start  
automatically.  
• Make the USB connection after the computer is turned on (page 128).  
You do not know how to operate the software (supplied).  
• See the help or the guide of each software.  
Memory card  
Cannot insert a memory card.  
• Insertion direction of the memory card is wrong. Insert it in the correct  
direction (page 21).  
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Cannot record on a memory card.  
• The memory card is full. Delete unnecessary images (page 110).  
• An unusable memory card is inserted (page 21).  
• You are using the memory card with the write-protect switch, and the  
switch is set to the LOCK position. Set the switch to the recording position.  
The Microdrive is heated.  
• You are using the Microdrive for a long time. This is not a malfunction.  
You have formatted a memory card by mistake.  
• All the data on the memory card is deleted by formatting. You cannot  
restore it.  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” is not recognized by a computer with a  
“Memory Stick” slot.  
• If “Memory Stick PRO Duo” is not supported on your computer’s  
“Memory Stick” slot, connect the camera to the computer (page 128). The  
computer recognizes the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.”  
Printing  
Also see “PictBridge compliant printer” (as follows) in conjunction with  
the following items.  
The color of the image is strange.  
• When you print the images recorded in Adobe RGB mode using sRGB  
printers that are not compatible with Adobe RGB (DCF2.0/Exif2.21), the  
images are printed at a lower intensity level (page 96).  
Images are printed with both edges cut off.  
• Depending on your printer, the left, right, top, and bottom edges of the  
image may be cut off. Especially when you print an image shot with the  
aspect ratio set to [16:9], the lateral end of the image may be cut off.  
• When printing images using your own printer, cancel the trimming or  
borderless settings. Consult the printer manufacturer as to whether the  
printer provides these functions or not.  
• When having images printed at a digital print shop, ask the shop whether  
they can print the images without cutting off both edges.  
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Cannot print images with the date.  
• Using “Picture Motion Browser,” you can print images with date  
• This camera does not have a feature for superimposing dates on images.  
However, because the images shot with the camera include information on  
the recording date, you can print images with the date superimposed if the  
printer or the software can recognize Exif information. For compatibility  
with Exif information, consult the manufacturer of the printer or the  
software.  
• When you print images at a shop, images can be printed with the date if you  
ask them to do so.  
PictBridge compliant printer  
For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the printer or  
consult with the manufacturer of the printer.  
A connection cannot be established.  
• The camera cannot be connected directly to a printer that is not compliant  
with the PictBridge standard. Consult the printer manufacturer as to  
whether the printer is compliant with PictBridge or not.  
• Set [USB connection] to [PTP] (page 143).  
• Disconnect and connect the USB cable again. If an error message is  
indicated on the printer, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the  
printer.  
Cannot print images.  
• Check that the camera and the printer are properly connected using the USB  
cable.  
• RAW data files cannot be printed.  
• Images shot using cameras other than this camera or images modified with  
a computer may not be printed.  
“---- -- --” is printed on the date-inserted part of the image.  
• Images that do not have the recording data cannot be printed with the date  
inserted. Set [Date imprint] to [Off] and print the image again (page 146).  
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Cannot print the image at the size selected.  
• Disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it whenever you change the paper  
size after the printer has been connected to the camera.  
• The print setting of the camera differs from that of the printer. Change the  
setting of either the camera (page 144) or the printer.  
Cannot operate the camera after canceling printing.  
• Wait for a while as the printer is carrying out the cancellation. It may take  
some time depending on the printer.  
Others  
The lens gets fogged.  
• Moisture condensation has occurred. Turn off the camera and leave it for  
about an hour before using it (page 163).  
The message “Set date and time?” appears when you turn on the camera.  
• The camera has been left unused for sometime with a low battery or no  
battery pack. Charge the battery pack and set the date again (page 25). If the  
date setting is lost every time the battery pack is charged, consult your Sony  
dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.  
The number of recordable images does not decrease or decreases two at  
a time.  
• This is because the compression rate and the image size after compression  
change depending on the image when you shoot a JPEG image (page 115).  
The setting is reset without the resetting operation.  
• The battery pack was removed when the POWER switch was set to ON.  
When removing the battery pack, make sure the POWER switch is set to  
OFF and the access lamp is not illuminated (page 25).  
The camera does not work properly.  
• Turn off the camera. Remove the battery pack and insert it again. If an AC  
Adaptor/charger (not supplied) is used, disconnect the power cord. If the  
camera is hot, allow it to cool down before trying this corrective procedure.  
If the camera does not work after doing these solutions, consult your Sony  
dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.  
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The five bars of the Super SteadyShot scale flash.  
• The Super SteadyShot function does not work. You can continue to shoot  
but the Super SteadyShot function will not work. Turn the camera off and  
on. If the Super SteadyShot scale continues to flash, consult your Sony  
dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.  
“--E-” is indicated on the screen.  
• Remove the memory card, and insert it again. If this procedure does not turn  
off the indication, format the memory card.  
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If the message still appears,  
change the memory card.  
Warning messages  
Card error  
• An incompatible memory card is  
inserted or the format was failed.  
If the following messages appear,  
follow the instructions.  
For “InfoLITHIUM” battery only  
• An incompatible battery pack is  
being used (page 17).  
Reinsert the card.  
• The inserted memory card  
cannot be used in your camera.  
• The memory card is damaged.  
• The terminal section of the  
memory card is dirty.  
Set date and time?  
• Set the date and time. If you  
have not used the camera for a  
long time, charge the internal  
rechargeable battery (pages 25,  
163).  
Processing...  
• When Long exposure noise  
reduction will be done for the  
same amount of time that the  
shutter was open. You cannot do  
any further shooting during this  
reduction.  
Power insufficient  
• You tried to perform [Cleaning  
mode] when the battery level is  
insufficient. Charge the battery  
pack or use the AC Adaptor/  
charger (not supplied).  
Unable to display.  
• Images recorded with other  
cameras or images modified with  
a computer may not be able to be  
displayed.  
No card  
• Insert a memory card.  
Unable to use card. Format?  
No lens attached. Shutter is  
locked.  
The memory card was formatted  
on a computer and the file format  
was modified, or the memory card  
was formatted on another device.  
Select [OK], then format the  
memory card. You can use the  
memory card again, however, all  
previous data in the memory card  
is erased. It may take a some time  
to complete the format.  
• The lens is not attached properly,  
or the lens is not attached. When  
attaching the camera to an  
astronomical telescope or  
something similar, set the  
recording mode to M.  
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No images  
Unable to magnify.  
Unable to rotate image.  
• Images recorded with other cameras  
may not be enlarged or rotated.  
• There is no image in the memory  
card.  
Image protected  
No images changed  
• You tried to delete protected  
images.  
• You attempted to protect images  
or specified DPOF without  
changing the specification of  
those images.  
Unable to print.  
• You tried to mark RAW images  
with a DPOF mark.  
Cannot create more folders.  
Initializing USB connection...  
• The folder with a name beginning  
with “999” exists on the memory  
card. You cannot create any  
folders if this is the case.  
• A USB connection has been  
established. Do not disconnect  
the USB cable.  
Printing canceled  
Check the connected device.  
• The print job was canceled.  
Disconnect the USB cable or  
turn the camera off.  
• A PictBridge connection cannot  
be established. Disconnect the  
USB cable and connect it again.  
Unable to mark.  
• You attempted to mark RAW  
images on the PictBridge screen.  
Camera overheating. Allow it to  
cool.  
• The camera has become hot  
because you have been shooting  
continuously.  
Printer error  
Turn the power off. Cool the  
camera and wait until the camera  
is ready to shoot again.  
• Check the printer.  
• Check if the image you want to  
print is corrupted.  
Camera error  
System error  
Printer busy  
• Check the printer.  
• Turn the power off, remove the  
battery pack, then re-insert it. If  
the message appears frequently,  
consult your Sony dealer or local  
authorized Sony service facility.  
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or hot places that exceed this range is  
not recommended.  
Precautions  
On moisture condensation  
Do not use/store the camera in  
the following places  
• In an extremely hot, dry or humid  
place  
In places such as in a car parked in  
the sun, the camera body may  
become deformed and this may  
cause a malfunction.  
• Under direct sunlight or near a  
heater  
The camera body may become  
discolored or deformed, and this  
may cause a malfunction.  
• In a location subject to rocking  
vibration  
If the camera is brought directly from  
a cold to a warm location, moisture  
may condense inside or outside the  
camera. This moisture condensation  
may cause a malfunction of the  
camera.  
How to prevent moisture  
condensation  
When bringing the camera from a  
cold place to a warm place, seal the  
camera in a plastic bag and allow it to  
adapt to conditions at the new  
location over about an hour.  
If moisture condensation occurs  
Turn off the camera and wait about an  
hour for the moisture to evaporate.  
Note that if you attempt to shoot with  
moisture remaining inside the lens,  
you will be unable to record clear  
images.  
• Near strong magnetic place  
• In sandy or dusty places  
Be careful not to let sand or dust get  
into the camera. This may cause the  
camera to malfunction, and in some  
cases this malfunction cannot be  
repaired.  
On carrying  
• Be sure to attach the lens cap or  
body cap when not using the  
camera. When attaching the body  
cap, remove all the dust from the  
cap before placing it on the camera.  
On the internal rechargeable  
battery  
This camera has an internal  
rechargeable battery for maintaining  
the date and time and other settings  
regardless of whether the power is on  
or off.  
On operating temperatures  
This rechargeable battery is  
continually charged as long as you  
are using the camera. However, if you  
use the camera for only short periods,  
it discharges gradually, and if you do  
not use the camera at all for about 8  
months it becomes completely  
Your camera is designed for use  
under the temperatures between 0 and  
40°C (32 and 104°F) (When using a  
Microdrive: 5 and 40°C (41 and  
104°F)). Shooting in extremely cold  
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discharged. In this case, be sure to  
charge this rechargeable battery  
before using the camera.  
• Using the camera in sandy or dusty  
locations may cause malfunctions.  
• If moisture condensation occurs,  
remove it before using the camera  
• Do not shake or strike the camera.  
In addition to malfunctions and an  
inability to record images, this may  
render the memory card unusable,  
or cause image data breakdown,  
damage or loss.  
• Clean the flash surface before use.  
The heat of flash emission may  
cause dirt on the flash surface to  
become discolored or to stick to the  
flash surface, resulting in  
However, even if this rechargeable  
battery is not charged, you can still  
use the camera as long as you do not  
record the date and time. If the  
camera resets the settings to the  
defaults each time you charge the  
internal rechargeable battery, the  
battery may be dead. Consult your  
Sony dealer or local authorized Sony  
service facility.  
Charging method of the internal  
rechargeable battery  
Insert a charged battery pack in the  
camera, or connect the camera to a  
wall outlet (wall socket) using the AC  
Adaptor/charger (not supplied), and  
leave the camera for 24 hours or more  
with the power off.  
insufficient light emission.  
• Keep the camera, supplied  
accessories, etc., out of the reach of  
children. The battery pack, the  
accessory shoe cap, etc., may be  
swallowed. If such a problem  
occurs, consult a doctor  
Notes on recording/playback  
immediately.  
• Before you record one-time events,  
make a trial recording to make sure  
that the camera is working  
correctly.  
• This camera is neither dust-proof,  
nor splash-proof, nor water-proof.  
• Do not look at the sun or a strong  
light through a removed lens or the  
viewfinder. This may cause  
irrecoverable damage to your eyes.  
Or it may cause a malfunction of  
your camera.  
• Do not use the camera near a  
location that generates strong radio  
waves or emits radiation. The  
camera may not be able to record or  
play back properly.  
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Index  
Index  
Numerics  
40-segment honeycomb pattern  
A
D
B
E
C
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J
F
L
M
H
I
N
166 Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
P
U
R
V
W
S
Z
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