DSC-WX1

KUALA LUMPUR: SONY has launched its latest Cyber-shot compact cameras, the DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1.

Both the 10.2-megapixel cameras use the Exmor E back-illuminated CMOS sensor to improve shooting in low-light environments and enhance image clarity.

Measuring just 14.1mm thick, the TX1 has a 4x optical zoom lens and a large 3in touchscreen display which now has an improved user interface with better touch navigation. The WX1, which is 19.8mm thick, has a 5x optical zoom with an f2.5 aperture.

Both cameras feature two advance image modes called Handheld Twilight and Sweep Panorama.

Handheld Twilight is handy for capturing images in low-light areas because it automatically shoots six consecutive pictures and combines them to form a clearer, low-noise image.

Sweep Panorama is an easy-to-use mode for taking panoramic shots by simply moving the camera from left to right. The mode also works when the user moves the camera vertically.

DSC-TX1

Another improvement is a 10fps (frames per second) burst shot mode that allows users to capture fast action shots.

Also, both cameras can record 720p HD videos at 30fps. The videos will be stored in MPEG4 format.

The DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1 retail for RM1,499 and RM1,299 respecitvely.

IPT-DS1 Party-shot dock

Sony also unveiled the IPT-DS1 Party-shot dock for the two new cameras.

IPT-DS1 Party-shot

Sold separately, the Party-shot is a small dock that revolves and scans for people and takes shots of them.

It is smart enough to scan for faces and smiles, making it easy to capture more natural expressions and candid moments without requiring a photographer.

Running on a pair of AA batteries, the Party-shot can last up to 11 hours on a single charge.

The IPT-DS1 Party-shot is priced at RM499.

Alpha 550

Meanwhile, Sony has unveiled its newest addition to the Alpha range of DSLR camera’s — the Alpha 550.

Targeted at both beginners and enthusiasts alike, the Alpha 550 enhances existing functions and ­introduces new ones.

The DSLR features a new 14.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor and coupled with a new Bionz processor, it can capture ISO images of up to 12800.

The camera also has a 3in LCD ­monitor that can be swivelled out to allow users to take difficult overhead or low angle shots with ease.

For capturing fast moving subjects, the camera has a nifty speed priority mode that allows it to capture at7fps, with the focus and exposure locked at the first frame.

Unique to the Alpha 550 is the Auto HDR (high dynamic range) mode that combines multiple exposed shots to create an optimised image that shows both highlights and shadows brilliantly.

Other improvements include an improved Quick Auto Focus Live View that incorporates both face detection and smile shutter capabilities.

The new face detection feature allows the camera to detect up to eight faces in a frame and the camera will optimise settings for exposure, white balance and dynamic range.

And the smile shutter feature automatically releases the shutter once the camera detects a subject that’s smiling.

Users who are into macro ­photography will appreciate the Manual Focus Check Live View ­function that magnifies an image by 7x or 14x to check if an object is in focus.

The Alpha supports Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD memory cards.

Sony claims the camera, which has a bigger battery, can take up to 1,000 shots using the optical viewfinder or 520 while using Live View mode, on a single charge.

The Sony Alpha 550 costs RM2,999 for the camera body alone.

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www.sony.com.my