Key Features
Dec 12 2012
Announced
24 megapixels
Resolution
Brand | Sony |
Sensor Type | Full frame |
Sensor | CMOS |
Weight | 812g |
MSRP | $2800USD |
Other similar cameras
Overview of the SLT-A99
The Sony SLT-A99 is the ultimate tool for serious photographers. Equipped with a full-frame sensor, this camera delivers stunning and high-quality images that capture every detail with utmost clarity and natural colors. Its cutting-edge technology, such as phase detection autofocus, enables the camera to capture images and videos quickly and accurately. Additionally, the camera's CMOS sensor and advanced image processing ensure the captured images are free from noise and unwanted distortions, even when shooting in low light environments. But that's not all! The Sony SLT-A99 is designed with a robust and durable exterior, making it the perfect companion for outdoor photography. Overall, the Sony SLT-A99 is a must-have for anyone seeking camera excellence.
Sony SLT-A99 Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Sony SLT-A99 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Sony SLT-A99
Weather sealed | |
Dimensions | 147 x 111 x 78mm |
Weight | 812g |
Thickness | 78mm |
Weather Sealing
The Sony SLT-A99 camera is equipped with environmental seals that make it resistant to weather, preventing water and dust from entering the camera. If you enjoy outdoor photography and need a camera that can handle extreme conditions, the SLT-A99 is an excellent choice.
Design and Handling
Main design features
View Finder | Electronic |
Screen Type | Fully Articulated |
Screen Resolution | 1,229k dots |
Body type | Mid-size SLR |
Suitable for:
Photography | Above Avg. |
Videography | Above Avg. |
Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a fully articulated 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 1,229k dots. This makes the Sony SLT-A99 very suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you can view yourself while shooting selfies. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.
Viewfinder
SLT-A99 includes a electronic viewfinder with 2,359k dots of resolution with a coverage of 100% and a magnification of 0.71x. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Sony SLT-A99 has a 24MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 24 pixels. Sony SLT-A99 has a native ISO range of 100 - 25600 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.
Key Features
Dec 12 2012
Announced
100 - 25600
ISO Range
Sensor | Full frame |
Extended ISO | null - null |
Max resolution | 6000 x 4000 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
89 / 102
Color Depth
25 / 26.5
Dynamic Range
14 / 14.8
Low Light ISO
1555 / 4505
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Sony SLT-A99 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain low amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is poor, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the SLT-A99 is above average
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: Full frame
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
Storage | Memory Stick PRO Duo/Pro-HG Duo; SD, SDHC and SDXC |
Battery Life | 500 shots |
Battery Model | NP-FM500H |
HDMI | |
USD | |
Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Sony SLT-A99 supports Memory Stick PRO Duo/Pro-HG Duo; SD, SDHC and SDXC with 2 slots for storage. Having dual SD card slots on the Sony SLT-A99 is highly advantageous as it mitigates the risk of losing footage due to memory card malfunctions. This feature is particularly beneficial for wedding photography and other professional settings.
Battery
The Sony SLT-A99 uses the NP-FM500H model of battery pack. This is rated for 500 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Sony SLT-A99 does not have a built-in flash, but it does offer a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.
Shutter
The Sony SLT-A99 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/8000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Sony SLT-A99 includes phase detection autofocus (AF), with 19 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Sony SLT-A99 features a CMOS sensor
Yes the SLT-A99 does have weather sealing.
The Sony SLT-A99 was announced on Dec 12 2012
Yes the SLT-A99 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The SLT-A99 has a native ISO range of 100-25600, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.