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Sony a500 User Manual

Sony a500
178 pages
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DSLR-A500/A550 4-159-236-11 (1)
Printed using VOC (Volatile Organic
Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.
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-A500/A550
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

Table of Contents

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Sony a500 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Megapixels12.3 MP
Continuous Shooting Speed5 fps
Video RecordingNo
Camera TypeDSLR
Lens MountSony A-mount
Image StabilizationSensor-shift
Maximum Shutter Speed1/4000 sec
Minimum Shutter Speed30 sec
Built-in FlashYes
BatteryNP-FM500H
Autofocus Points9 points
Screen Size3.0 inches
ViewfinderOptical
Viewfinder TypePentamirror

Summary

Preparing the Camera

Checking Supplied Accessories

Lists all items included in the camera package, specifying quantities.

Preparing the Battery Pack

Instructions for charging, handling, and effective use of the camera's battery pack.

Attaching a Lens

Step-by-step guide on how to securely mount a lens onto the camera body.

Inserting a Memory Card

Guide on how to correctly insert memory cards for image storage.

Setting Up the Date and Time

Initial configuration for setting the camera's date and time for accurate recording.

Using the Eyepiece Cover and Eyecup

Instructions for attaching and using the eyepiece cover and eyecup for viewfinder use.

Checking Recordable Images

How to determine the number of photos that can be stored on a memory card based on size and quality.

Cleaning

Cleaning the Camera Body and Lens

Procedures for cleaning the camera exterior and lens surfaces using appropriate methods.

Cleaning the Image Sensor

Detailed steps for safely cleaning the camera's image sensor to ensure image quality.

Before your Operation

Identifying Camera Components

Overview of parts and controls on the front, rear, top, and sides of the camera.

Understanding Screen Indicators

Explains the various displays and icons shown on the camera's LCD monitor.

Selecting Functions and Settings

Guide to using buttons like Fn and MENU to change camera settings and functions.

Shooting Images

Shooting Without Camera Shake

Techniques for maintaining stability and posture for sharper images.

Using the SteadyShot Function

Guide to activating and using the image stabilization feature to reduce blur.

Using a Tripod

Recommendations and guidelines for shooting with a tripod for enhanced stability.

Shooting in AUTO Mode

How to use the camera's automatic shooting mode for ease of use in various conditions.

Using Face Detection

How the camera automatically detects and focuses on faces for optimal portraits.

Scene Selection Modes

Explains different scene modes for optimized shooting conditions like portraits, landscapes, etc.

Using the Shooting Function

Selecting the Focus Method

Explains autofocus and manual focus options based on lens type and shooting needs.

Adjusting Focus Manually

Steps for manually adjusting focus when autofocus is difficult or precise control is needed.

Checking Focus via Image Enlargement

How to zoom in on images to verify focus accuracy before shooting.

Using the Flash

Guide to operating the built-in flash for various shooting scenarios and lighting.

Adjusting Image Brightness

Explains exposure compensation, flash compensation, and metering for optimal exposure.

Selecting Image Processing (Creative Style)

Options for adjusting contrast, saturation, and sharpness for desired image aesthetics.

Setting ISO Sensitivity

How to adjust the camera's sensitivity to light for different shooting conditions.

Adjusting Color Tones (White Balance)

Methods for correcting color casts under different lighting conditions for accurate colors.

Using the Viewing Function

Playing Back Images

Instructions on how to view recorded photos on the camera's LCD screen.

Rotating Images

How to rotate photos for proper orientation during playback on the camera or computer.

Enlarging Images

Method for zooming into images for closer examination and focus verification.

Checking Information of Recorded Images

Displaying metadata and settings associated with captured photos, including histogram.

Protecting Images

How to prevent accidental deletion of selected photos by marking them.

Deleting Images

Procedures for removing unwanted photos from the memory card.

Viewing Images on a TV Screen

Guide to connecting the camera to a TV for displaying images on a larger screen.

Changing Your Setup

Setting Image Size and Quality

Options for selecting image resolution and compression levels for storage and quality.

Setting Memory Card Recording Method

Configuring file numbering and folder naming conventions for organizing images.

Changing Noise Reduction Settings

Adjusting settings to reduce noise in long exposures or high ISO shots for cleaner images.

Changing the Function of the AEL Button

Customizing the operation of the Auto Exposure Lock button for preferred control.

Changing Other Settings

Adjusting sound, help guide display, power save mode, and language settings.

Setting the LCD Monitor

Adjusting brightness and auto review display time for optimal viewing experience.

Resetting to the Default

Restoring camera settings to their factory defaults to resolve issues or start fresh.

Viewing Images on a Computer

Recommended Computer Environment

System requirements for connecting the camera to a computer for image transfer.

Connecting the Camera to a Computer

Step-by-step guide for establishing a USB connection between camera and computer.

Copying Images to a Computer

Procedures for transferring photos from the camera's memory card to PC storage.

Using the Software Suite

Information on provided software for image management, editing, and transfer.

Printing Images

Specifying DPOF

Setting print order and quantity for images before printing at a shop or with a printer.

Printing via PictBridge

Direct printing instructions using a PictBridge compatible printer without a computer.

Others

Specifications

Technical details and features of the camera, sensor, and lenses.

Troubleshooting Camera Issues

Solutions for common problems and error messages encountered with the camera.

Warning Messages and Handling

Explains system messages and necessary actions to resolve them for safe operation.

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