TIPA members selected gear, software, and services in forty photographic categories for 2022. The awards for cameras and lenses are likely to be of most interest to Alphatracks readers

Sony captured four of the twenty-three combined camera and lens awards.

BEST FULL FRAME EXPERT CAMERA

The Sony Alpha 7 IV was selected as The BEST FULL FRAME EXPERT CAMERA. The judges praised the A7 IV’s backlit 33MB sensor, the 15 stops of dynamic range, and low light performance. They were equally struck by the camera’s ability to record one hour of continuous video.

BEST VLOGGER CAMERA

The Sony ZV-E10 scored another gold star for Sony, as it was judged the BEST VLOGGER CAMERA. This wasn’t a huge surprise, as there isn’t much competition in the Vlogging space.

The judges were enamored by the 3-inch flip-around touch screen, the directional mic, and the variety of shooting modes. The judges also highlighted the E-10s array of ports and external connections. Additionally, they cited the E-10’s compatibility with the full complement of E-mount lenses as a major benefit.

BEST FULL FRAME STANDARD ZOOM LENS

Speaking of lenses, the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II was judged the BEST FULL FRAME STANDARD ZOOM LENS. The panel highlighted the myriad ways the GM II outperforms the original FE 24-70mm. The judges liked the fact the GMII is smaller and lighter and features quicker focus tracking.

BEST FULL FRAME TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS

Another second-generation lens, the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, received the nod for BEST FULL FRAME TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS. The panel recognized this 70-200mm focal range is most likely the most popular tele zoom across the board.

Choosing the Sony 70-200 as the “Best” is a testament to how this lens stands out in this crowded focal range. Sony has built this lens with 4X quicker AF speeds while at the same time making it almost 30% lighter than the previous model. The jury also lauded the quiet AF and reduced focus breathing.

Third-Party Lenses also scored Awards

Canon and Nikon optics did receive awards for other focal lengths. Of course, Sony E-mount photographers cannot make use of these lenses directly. Of more interest were third-party optics from Tokina, Sigma, Voigtlander, Laowa, and Tamron. Each of these manufacturers scored a Best award for a particular focal length. Tamron and Sigma were ranked Best in multiple focal lengths.

You can see the entire list of 2022 TIPA awards winners on the association’s website.

There was a time Sony wasn’t considered in the same league as Canon and Nikon. Sony’s ability to excel in the TIPA awards proved those days are long past.

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As expected, Sony announced the new Alpha A99 full-frame camera at Photokina in Germany. Unquestionably the best and most full-featured Sony Alpha yet, many have labeled the new machine as a “full-frame version of the Sony Alpha A77.”

While there are many worse things than being compared to great camera like the A77, the new full-frame Sony boasts a number of features beyond the size of the sensor.

Starting with the sensor, the A99 is equipped with a new Sony 24.3mp Exmor CMOS chip. While this is roughly the same pixel count as the A77, the larger sensor makes for larger pixels, which should result in superior noise reduction.

As far as the other features mentioned above, the A99 includes Sony’s all new..eh, old?…hot shoe design. While I think this is somewhat of a step backwards, it does mean the Sony A99 (as well as the brand new NEX 6 ) will be able to utilize more flash and flash accessories. Presumably this the future for all Sony dSLR/SLT cameras, so get used to it.

There is also a brand new, top of the line Flash unit (Sony HVL-F60M Flash) equipped with the proper shoe for the new mount. Don’t worry, if you own older Sony/Minolta flash units, there is a new, inexpensive Multi Interface adapter to mate these flashes with the new camera.

Being a SLT translucent mirror camera, the A99 lacks a traditional optical viewfinder. The electronic view finder (EVF) offers an interesting improvement over optical finders of the past. Like previous full frame Alpha (A900-A850) you can use crop-sensor lenses on the body. You will get a lower resolution image, but it works. With the EVF, however, Sony created a system that automatically detects whether you are shooting with full-frame glass or not. If you attach a crop-sensor lens on the A99, the viewfinder automatically enlarges the image to show you a 100% view of what the lens sees in the viewfinder. Switch to a full-frame A-mount lens and the view will adjust itself again, showing you 100% view of what the full-frame lens sees. Try that with an optical viewfinder.

Since this is a pro-level camera, it needs pro-level auto-focus and it seems the A99 has that in spades. Sony claims the A99 is the first digital camera from any manufacturer to include a dual AF system. The main focus system features a 19-point AF grid with 11 cross sensors.  The Sony engineers have backed this up with an a 102-point phase detection sensor that is overlaid on the image sensor. The result is a system that Sony says uses both phase-detection sensors to create an extremely fast and accurate AF system. Time will tell, but I am pretty excited about the potential of dual AF system.

Another thing the A99 has going for it is weight — or rather the lank of it. Sony is touting the A99 as the lightest 35mm full-frame dSLR on the market. The body of the camera tips the scale at 740 grams (26 ounces). Not bad for an ultra-full-frame camera.

The ISO range is 100-32000. Because this is full-frame camera, which creates much larger files than APS-C frame cameras, the frame rate is limited to 6fps. That is pretty impressive, but pales next to the Alpha A77, which can crank out a full 10fps. If you absolutely have to have faster frame rate, the A99 allows you to shift into an APS-C mode. At this setting, the A99 actually captures APS-C size images instead of the full-frame 35mm size files it would normally gather. While you will end up with lower resolution images, you can shoot at the same 10fps as the A77. It’s a trade-off, full resolution or fast frame rate. I like having options.

The A99 is Sony’s first full-frame camera to offer video recording, as the A900 and A850 lacked video capture. Although the A99 should produce excellent still photos, Sony certainly didn’t overlook the videographer. in addition to he most advanced video AF system in a dSLR, the A99 features a silent dial that allows users to adjust settings such as f/stop and shutter speed without adding noise to the film clip. The A99 makes up for whatever was missing on the previous Sony flagships, offering 60p, 60i and 24p HD video modes.

When you done shooting, you can output uncompressed 60p and 60i HDMI footage.

After Sony killed off the highly regarded A900, some commentators voiced the opinion that Sony was done with the high-end; that the company would be content to play in the advanced amateur level and leave professional level cameras to other manufacturers. The A99 demonstrates why it is dangerous to listen to the pundits. There are a few things that could be improved on the A99 (wireless radio trigger for one), but overall the A99 is full-featured as well as full-frame.

Pre-Order the Sony Alpha A99 at Sony Style

Pre-Order the Sony Alpha A99 on Amazon

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This much is known, or at least thought to be factual based on things Sony has said in various interviews.

• The A700 replacement will be a translucent-mirror camera a la the A33 and A55
• It will have an electronic viewfinder with far higher-performance than the A55
• It will use an APS-C sensor, most likely of a backlit Exmor type
• It will offer HD-Video capability
• Sony has indicated it will ship this year

Beyond that, everything is still rumor and speculation. Various people have started referring to the camera as the A77 or the A800, but AFAIK, Sony has not committed to a model designation as yet.

Sony hasn’t even promised that the clear mockup represents the final body shell for the camera. Obviously, the actual camera will not be transparent, but Sony could still tweak the final configuration of the body shell. The mockup continues the latest Sony fashion of placing the on/off switch in a ring around the shutter release button. There appears to be a PC sync port, although unlike the current A700, the port is nearly at the bottom of the camera. The grip looks promising, and includes the sense-switch functionality. The rear LCD looks large, and it appears it may be hinged to swing like other recent Sony dSLRs..

So when we we see more on this new wonder camera? No guarantees, but the CliQ trade show (formerly known a the PMA show) is scheduled for September 6-11 this year. Since that is probably the latest Sony could introduce a new camera and hope to get on dealer shelves in time for Christmas, my guess is all our questions will be answered at CliQ.

In the meantime, if you want to see photos of the mockup, the following sites have photos from the show:

ePhotoZine: Hands on with the Sony Alpha A700 Replacement

Pocket-Lint: Sony see-through SLT alpha camera concept hands-on

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Probably the most controversial Sony PMA offering is the “mirroless” interchangeable lens camera. Many people are really excited about the mockups, while others are less than enthusiastic about them. Me?  I am squarely in the middle.

I am a huge SLR enthusiast, and I have yet to look through a electronic view finder (EVF) that approached the quality of a typical optical viewfinder. So, right off the bat, I am not a part of the target market for these new cameras, which many people have nick-named EVIL, after the EVF.

On the other hand, I am sure Sony must have done sufficient studies to justify creating this new line. If creating a new line of cameras helps drive bigger and better things from Sony’s photographic division, then I am all for it. There has been an incredible amount of interest in the EVF mock-ups, so if Sony brings them to market at the right price and feature set, they could be a true game changer.

It has been widely reported that the EVF models will have a APS-C size sensor. This is the same size as most of the Alpha dSLRs, and should yield very good image quality.

I am still concerned that the EVF cameras will apparently bear the Alpha brand. If the new cameras accept Alpha lenses, then this is a no brainer. If in fact, the new mini Alphas use a different lens mount, I think that is a problem.

Currently, with a few rare exceptions, all Sony Alphas can use the same lenses and accessories. The DT (APS-C coverage) lenses are not designed to cover the full-frame sensor on the premier A900 and A850. But Sony has made a provision so users can use these lenses on the full-frame models; you won’t get full frame coverage or the entire megapixel count, but the lenses are usable.

If the new cameras use an entirely different mount, then Sony will be developing two separate interchangeable lens lines. Again, if that drives the Alpha brand forward, then well and good. I worry however, that resources needed to expand the Sony dSLR line will be diverted to the new electronic viewfinder models.

In addition, a separate lens line creates a barrier wall between the two camera lines. If the new EVF cameras use the A-mount, then this is a excellent buyer retention strategy. New users may start with the EVF model. When they are ready to move up to a camera with more features, they will look for a dSLR. If the lenses and accessories carry over, this is a great way to encourage users to choose a Sony Alpha.

If the lens mounts differ, however, there is a barrier wall in place. If some one has a large selection of Sony Alpha EVF lenses, moving to the dSLR model is problematic. Do you simply expand your EVF system or dump everything and start from scratch?

If you do start from scratch, then there is no need to stick with the Sony Alpha. Since nothing carries over, you are free to choose any dSLR system you want. There might be some brand loyalty that keeps users in the Alpha camp, but unlike owning a quiver of A-mount lenses, there is no physical reason to remain with Sony.

The barrier wall works both ways. I have no interest in adding another system to my existing A-mount collection. It is difficult enough to stay current on the entire Alpha dSLR system without adding a whole new collection of cameras, lenses and accessories.

If however, I could leverage my current lens line with one of these EVF cams, I might consider it. I could keep one in the glove compartment so I would always have a quality camera handy. I could pack a small bag with some of my existing lenses for nature hikes. This is only mildly attractive for me me, however, if my current lenses work with the new cameras. If the A-Mount lenses don’t fit, there is no compelling reason for me to consider one of these cameras. I could achieve most of the benefits from a smaller point and shoot. No, I wouldn’t have the option of using interchangeable lenses, but if I want lens variety I will just haul out one of my Alpha dSLRs. Case closed.

If you look at the mockup photo, the lens mount doesn’t appear to be an Alpha mount. It is possible, since this is a mockup, that the actual camera might sport a different mount. But I’m not sure there is enough physical room to attach a typical A-mount lens to that mount. In addition, the sensor is probably to close to rear element for an A-mount lens to focus correctly. So I am guessing that the best we can hope for is a lens adapter that will allow A-mount optics to work on the EVF cameras.

Interestingly enough, there are no electrical contacts visible in the photos. To offer the auto focus and auto exposure capabilities that we have come to expect in a digital camera, there has to be a way for the camera to talk to the lens. So either the mount is unfinished on the mockups or Sony has a new way to pass information from camera to lens.

I have some other concerns about the EVF cameras. For one, I don’t see a hot shoe or a PC sync port. Hopefully, because these are just concepts, Sony will rectify this omission before the real things ship.

There is a large rectangular cover on the top of the camera, which I assume houses a popup flash. Without a hot shoe or sync port, however, there is no way to use off camera flash. After preaching about the benefits of off camera flash for years, I’m not ready to buy into a system that forces you to use the popup flash or nothing.

Frankly I am more than a little puzzled by the lack of a hot shoe. I have to believe there is a need for a flash that can be bounced, swiveled or located away from the camera. By including an Alpha style hot shoe, Sony could expand the market for their current flash units and flash accessories. They wouldn’t have to develop a new flash unit, as the current Alpha flash system would work on the EVF models. If and when these buyers move up to a dSLR, these flash components could create buyer retention.

“Hmm. I already have a flash and remote cord that fits the Sony Alpha. If I buy some other brand I will need to buy a new flash unit. Guess I’ll stick with Sony.”

So to me, an Alpha hot shoe is a no brainer. I did notice there are two dimples on either side of the alleged popup flash. I have no clue what purpose they serve. Perhaps Sony intends to develop some sort of clip-on external flash shoe that attaches to these openings?

I am also concerned about the lack of external controls on the mockups. If this is the final design, that will mean all controls are accessed by LCD menus. I could live with that, provided the LCD can be viewed in bright sunlight. Most LCDs are useless in full sun, although some manufacturers claim to have eliminated this problem. If the EVF models need to be controlled almost entirely by menu, then we Sony needs to include a screen that can be read at noon on a hot July day.

I not trying to pan the EVF Alphas or suggest that Sony should abandon the idea of a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. I’m sure they will sell well.

As shown, however, they are not a real replacement for a dSLR. Give us a proper A-mount, an Alpha hot shoe and a LCD menu that can be read in bright sunlight and then we’ll talk. Otherwise, they might just be EVIL at that.

The post The Sony EVF Alphas: a closer look appeared first on Alphatracks.

Sony teased Alpha photographers with several interesting “concepts” at the latest PMA show. As these are concepts, there is no definite word on when or if these cameras will appear. Still, the concepts Sony has shown at previous PMA shows have come to fruition, and Sony has already hinted about the new lenses they showed off at Anaheim.

Sony’s new concepts include:

• Concept model of an ultra-compact interchangeable lens digital camera system that packs the quality of a DSLR camera in an extraordinarily small body, along with interchangeable lenses
• Mid-range concept camera for advanced users (a successor to the α700) as well as concept mainstream models
• Prototype of a Super Telephoto Lens (500mm F4 G) with class-leading optical performance
• Prototype of a Distagon T 24mm F2 ZA SSM, new Carl Zeiss wide angle lens for superior shots of landscapes and sweeping vistas

The new “mirrorless” concept is NOT a 4/3 type camera, but appears to be Sony’s own design. It will offer interchangeable lenses on a tiny body similar to a larger point and shoot. It will carry the Alpha name, but I can’t be sure it uses A-Mount lenses. I hope Sony will not attempt to produce two separate lens lines.

The other two dSLRs are look more conventional. Neither model has a model name engraved on it, and it is difficult to see where Sony could actually add a model name, as there doesn’t appear to be any room between the grip and the prism.

The A700 successor appears smaller and more rounded than the original A700. I don’t see a PC sync port, but there is a top mounted LCD panel. No word if the new model will have video, but it does appear to have a pop-up flash.

The other dSLR is much smaller. Based on the comparison between it and the A700 replacement, it is possibly the smallest dSLR on the market. Sony hasn’t provided an indication of the sensor size or megapixels, but I think it might create a lot of interest for those who want a compact dSLR that still has an optical mirror.

The post New Sony Alpha hardware at the 2010 PMA Show appeared first on Alphatracks.

Okay, here we go again. A site called PhotoRumors says that they have “received information” that Sony is prepping a dSLR model to be called the A800. We’ve heard rumors of an A800 before. In fact, so many sites confidently predicted Sony would announce the A800 at PMA last March, that Sony reps went on record saying there would be no new Sony dSLRs announced until sometime after the show. As months have passed with no announcement, the A800 rumors faded.

Now they are back again — with a vengeance. You can read the short A800 post at PhotoRumors yourself, but the high points are: 16.2MP, full-frame, 100-25400 ISO (!), A900 type optical view system with popup flash and the Sony Quick live-View System (!!), HD Video, 3.5 inch LCD (!), 1/500 flash sync, aluminum-magnesium body with dust and moisture seals, built-in GPS, built-in WiFi and more.

“…and if you order now, they will throw in the Brooklyn Bridge as well…”

Call me skeptical, but this has all the makings of a vaporware pipe-dream.

A good rumor needs to sound plausible. Taken on an individual basis, every one of the rumored features of the phantom A800 is technically possible. All of the elements on the list can be found on various dLSRs from Sony or other camera manufacturers. Finding them all in a single camera is another story. There are some high-end dSLRs that incorporate most of the items on the list, but none I know of that retail for less than $2500.

Therein lies the rub. Many people have suggested that the A800 will be positioned as a replacement for the A700. If the Alpha A800 actually included most of these features, it is unlikely Sony will bring it to market anywhere close to the A700 price range. The specs on this super camera are much closer to the A900 than the A700, which currently sells for $999 in body-only trim.

True, the A900 has that incredible 24mp sensor. I also suspect that if Sony did create a dSLR of this nature, the optical viewfinder wouldn’t be as good as the one in the A900. Fitting the Quick Live View system into the A300 series cameras required Sony to make some compromises with the optical viewfinder. I would assume Sony would need the same sort of compromises in this camera.

Even so, the A800 would steal much of the A900’s thunder, especially if it was priced at the mid-range point.

A $4000 dSLR for less than $1500? I’ll take two!

Actually, the proposed specs on this dSLR are very similar to those of the very highly regarded Nikon D3. Similar, except the D3 lacks video and a flip-out LCD. The D3’s LCD screen “is only” 3 inches, a half inch smaller than the published specs for the phantom A800.

That wouldn’t be a huge deal, but the Nikon D3 sells for way over $4000.00. Does anyone really belive that Sony will bring a D3 caliber camera to market at a A700 price? Let’s not forget that such a camera would do a very good job of cannibalizing sales of the A900.

I don’t doubt that sooner or later Sony will offer an A800 model. But if it has these specs, it won’t sell in the A700’s price range. So, either Sony is prepping a high-priced companion to the A900, or the reports are completely bogus.

Either way, that doesn’t offer us a moderately-priced replacement for the current A700. Unless you believe that Sony intends to release an entire new fleet in 2009: new A230, A330, A380, A500, A550, A800 cameras and upgrade the A700 in their spare time.

Ain’t gonna happen. Not this year. Not in this economy.

I want to be wrong about this. I want be able to snap up that incredible A800 for less than $1500. However, my gut tells me Sony wouldn’t offer a camera of this caliber for under two grand. Quite possibly it would list for much more.

Anyone care to convince me that I am wrong?

The post Another Sony A800 rumor — this dog won’t hunt! appeared first on Alphatracks.

May 9, 2009: The rumors of new dSLR’s from Sony continue to swirl about the internet. Many people expected something at the PMA show in February, but a Sony official was quoted as saying no dSLRs would be released until after PMA — fueling speculation that new models would be coming soon after that.

There are several sources speculating that new models would be known as the A230, A330 and A380. There is yet another rumor of an A800. I have heard talk of other models, but I don’t want encourage rumors of cameras that may not be available for months or even years from now — if at all.

It does appear, however, that new models in the A300 and A200 line may soon be introduced. David Kilpatrick of PhotoClub Alpha (in the UK) has some screen captures from a SonyStyle site that contain photos of some of future Alpha dSLRs. These appear to indeed be the A380, A330 and A230.

You can read David’s musing on the PhotoClub Alpha site.

So what can we expect from these new dSLRs? Until now, all the Sony Alpha dSLRS carried names that fit neatly into an even 100 digits: A100, A200, A300, A700, A900. The only exception is the A350, which is more or less an A300 with a denser, 14mp sensor.

Since the new models carry names like 330 and 380, it appears the new cameras may be variants of the existing A300 and A350. If the photos are accurate, however, the new models appear to have newer, smaller bodies.

So other than the bodies, what will the new dSLR’s offer?

Sony hasn’t yet revealed the specs on the new models, so everything said here is pure conjecture.

Several people have suggested that Sony may remove the AF motor from the new bodies. This is bolstered by the recently announced Sony lenses. The new lenses overlap existing glass in the Sony catalog. There doesn’t seem to be a need for the new lenses, unless they have internal motors. These motors could handle the autofocus duties on cameras that lack their own AF motor.

This could produce lighter, more compact camera bodies. That is all well an good, but it breaks compatibility with older glass. Until now, you could use almost any A-Mount lens on any Sony Alpha. Minolta A-Mount lenses. Aftermarket (Tamron, Sigma, etc.) A-Mount lenses. And of course all the existing Sony A-Mount glass.

If the rumor is true, most of these older lenses will not offer full compatibility with the new bodies. I assume you should be able to attach the lenses and shoot using manual focus. Only the handful of older lenses that include internal focusing motors will actually offer auto focus ability on the new cameras.

Which is more important: lens compatibility or overall weight?

If this is true, I will be a little disappointed with the new models. In the first place, I don’t really like overly-light cameras. Heavy cameras dampen vibration and feel more solid to me. My all time favorite film SLR was the incredible XK-Motor. The camera itself was as heavy as a tank, and that was before you bolted on the battery pack that held ten AA batteries. As heavy as it was, the XK-M was so well balanced that felt and handled beautifully.

I do have a lot of experience in backpacking, and I understand the importance of eliminating extra weight. But if I have the choice between maximum lens compatibility and a smaller, lighter body, I would choose lens compatibility every time.

Kilpatrick also speculates the new bodies may abandon Compact Flash cards. Once again, I hope this isn’t so. Sony has only recently started selling their own line of CF cards. I prefer having a single card type that I can exchange between cameras. If the new digi-SLRs don’t accept CF cards, it will break compatibility with many of the older models. If the new cameras use SD cards, there will be no memory card compatibility with any current Sony Alpha. This might not be a problem if you only shoot with one camera. If you use multiple bodies, however, it will be pain to keep different memory cards for different bodies.

Different strokes for different folks, and Sony may have found that there is a considerable market for smaller, lighter bodies. Considering the limited amount of available lenses, I wouldn’t think the lower weight and smaller size would be worth the trade off. In my opinion, one of the best features of the Alpha is the huge array of Minolta A-mount lenses. Take away the ability to use those lenses and what do you have?

When will Sony offer a dSLR with video capabilities?

The other question is whether any of the new dSLRs will offer video. I’m not all that hungry for video myself, but with both Canon and Nikon offering dSLRs that have video modes, I find it puzzling that Sony isn’t stepping up to compete in the video/dSLR segment.

After all, Sony is a huge player in the camcorder market. The last I heard Sony was a close second to Canon in camcorder sales. So I would expect Sony to enter into the fledgling dSLR with video market with both feet.

Rumors — and remember these are only rumors — say the new Alpha dSLRs will not contain a video mode.

If this is true, I won’t be heart broken, but I want the Alpha to be competitive on all fronts. If the market is moving to onboard video on dSLRs, I want Sony to offer a video dSLR. This has nothing to do with being a Sony “fan.” The stronger the Alpha line becomes, the more aftermarket support we will see. It will also encourage Sony to release new and improved Alpha products.

Then again, it wouldn’t put it past Sony to abruptly release a new model that no one is expecting. After the release of the A700, everyone was expecting the A900 to be the next Sony dSLR. Without warning, Sony suddenly replaced the A100 with the A200. Only about a month later, the A300 and A350 were announced.

So until Sony clarifies the situation, this is all speculation. There is also no indication of when the new cameras will be on the market. The important thing is the Sony Alpha market is continuing to grow. Even if I don’t want to see a video-free dSLR without onboard internal focus motors and no CF slot, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a market for such an animal.

I sure hope folks at Sony has done their homework.

So what is your take on the future the Sony Alpha? Is there room for SD cards and bodies stripped of AF motors? Should Sony add a video mode? What say you?

The post Future Sony Alphas coming: features and ship date still uncertain appeared first on Alphatracks.

This aluminum adapter converts a M42 screw mount lens into a A-mount lens.

May 4, 2009 A few weeks ago, I discussed using an M42 lens with the Sony Alpha. The way you pull this off is with a M42 to A-mount adapter.

The adapter is nothing more than a thin piece of metal with a Sony/Minolta A-mount bayonet fitting and a threaded opening for a M42 lens. The term M42 represents 42mm — the diameter of the threaded lens mount. There are other similar lenses, including M39 and M40 diameter lenses. The M42 mount is the most popular of the”M” mounts, especially when it comes to lenses designed to fit a 35mm SLR.

M42 adapter has an A-mount bayonet on one side and a threaded opening that accepts a 42mm screw in the center.

There is one other screw-mount lens you need to be aware of: the T-Mount. I’m not sure why there was a need for the T-mount, because the screw threads on the T-Mount are also 42mm in diameter. The difference is the thread pitch: the M42 lens uses 1 thread per mm, while the T-Mount uses a slightly coarser 0.75 thread per mm. This is important, because the M42 and T-mount look extremely similar. but they are not interchangeable. You can screw either lens into a M42 adapter, but only the M42 lens will thread fully home. If you try to thread a T-mount lens into an M42 adapter, it will seize up before the lens flange seats properly. The same is true if you try to install a M42 lens on a T-mount adapter.

I’m spending a lot of time on the M42 and T-mount lenses, because most lenses of this type do not have any markings indicating the mount type. You really need to use caution when buying a used screw mount lens. In many cases you will find T-mount lenses advertised as M42, and M42 lens sold as T-mount. There are both M42 and T-mount adapters available for the Sony Alpha, but it is important to know what type of 42mm diameter screw lens you are buying. If your screw mount lens doesn’t thread into the adapter smoothly, do not force it. Mixing lenses and adapters can result in damage to either the lens or the adapter.

Now that we’ve established what an M42 adapter is, lets look at why you would want to use an adapter in the first place.

You can see the 42mm thread on this Vivitar lens. Note the switch next to the red M. Not all M42 lens have this switch. This Vivitar can be switched into a auto mode when used on auto diaphragm cameras like the pre-bayonet Pentax film SLRs. To use the lens on a Sony Alpha adapter, it needs to be switched into the manual (M) mode.

The fact is there are millions of optically excellent M42 lenses available, many at ridiculously low prices. Carl Zeiss actually produced the first M42 lenses in 1938. The mount was used by Practica and became the standard Pentax 35mm lens mount until Pentax switched to a bayonet mount the mid ’70s. Today, Carl Zeiss continues to produce new M42 lenses under the ZS model name. These are manual focus lenses and other than Zeiss quality, have little in common with the AF Zeiss lenses sold by Sony.

The Russian Zenit line produced M42 lenses quite recently. They may or may not be still manufacturing M42 lenses and cameras. In addition, there are countless used M42 mount lens available on ebay, pawn shops, used camera dealers, garage sales and the like.

While M42 lenses are plentiful, there are good reasons you can buy them so inexpensively. As a universal style lens, initially designed over seventy years ago, these lenses are devoid of may of the innovations modern photographers take for granted.

Here is a partial list:

• No Autofocus
• No Automatic diaphragm
• You need to use manual exposure on the A200, A300 and A350
• Image stabilization does not work

M42 lenses don’t offer auto focus

The lack of auto focusing doesn’t bother me very much. After years of shooting action sports with manual focus cameras, I am somewhat uncomfortable turning over the focusing duties to a silicon chip. That doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate auto focus; but its absence isn’t a deal beaker to me.

Adapters cannot provide automatic diaphragm connections

Not having an automatic diaphragm is more troubling. On the other hand, I am using my M42 lens when I want a fast telephoto. This means when I use this lens, I am nearly always shooting wide open. This negates any concern about the auto diaphragm, since the lens is usually open to the maximum aperture.

The result is the M42 lens becomes a special purpose lens to be used only in low light. If conditions are such that I can shoot at f/4 or higher, I switch to one of my A-mount, auto focus telephotos.

Manual exposure is required with M42 adapters on the A200, A300 and A350

The Alpha A200, A300 and A350 cannot use a lens adapter in the automatic mode. The camera will not not recognize that there is a lens attached, and will not fire the shutter in the auto mode. The only way to use an ordinary adapter on these cameras in the manual mode.

Most of the Minolta Maxxums and other models of the Sony Alpha can use adapters in the aperture priority mode. Different cameras use different methods to allow you to use an adapter in the auto mode. Consult the owners manual if you are unsure of the procedure for your camera.

Shooting with manual exposure outdoors can be a pain, especially if the light is shifty. Since I am using the M42 lens to shoot under fairly constant indoor lighting conditions, this isn’t a real problem either. I shoot a couple of frames and use the LCD to make sure the exposure looks good. Since I’m shooting in a sports arena, the light is not likely to change during a game. So once I have a good exposure on the LCD, I can shoot the rest of the day without changing anything.

Hey I thought in-body stabilization works with all lenses…

Some of you might be wondering about the lack of image stabilization. The whole premise of the Sony in-camera anti-shake system is that it works with any lens right? Well not exactly.

Because the system is built into the camera, technically it should work on any lens you attach to the camera. However, in order to maximize effectiveness, the Steady Shot system needs to know the focal length of the lens. Without this knowledge, the camera doesn’t know how much IS to apply. This isn’t a problem with Sony, Minolta and aftermarket A-mount lenses. These lenses have electrical contacts that let the camera know the focal length of the lens.

There is no way for the Sony Alpha to “read” the focal length of a M42 lens. Since the camera cannot identify the focal length of a M42 lens, SSS can’t operate.

Upgrade to a chipped adapter for SSS and aperture priority exposure

If you are willing to spend a little more money, you can have IS and aperture priority auto exposure. There are M42 adapters that include a “focus confirmation” chip. These adapters attempt to fool the camera into thinking there is a real Sony A-mount AF lens installed.

M42 lens (top) pictured with a T-Mount lens. You can see the threaded portions look very similar, but they are not the same. Make sure you know what type of mount your screw mount lens actually has.

Naturally, you won’t actually have AF, and you still won’t have an automatic diaphragm. Your camera will let you use Aperture Priority automatic exposure, so you can select the aperture and the camera will select an appropriate shutter speed. You cannot use shutter priority, since the Alpha series has no communication with a M42 lens, so it cannot adjust the aperture.

A focus confirmation chip will also return Super Steady Shot functionality, because the camera now knows the focal length of the lens…at least it thinks it does.

The confirmation chip works by convincing the camera that there is a real Sony lens attached. The camera reads the information from the chip and uses that data to determine how to react.

This means you can’t use just any chipped adapter with any particular lens. If the chip in the adapter tells the camera there is a 50mm f/1.7 lens attached and you actually are using a 400mm f/8 lens, Image Stabilization will be less then optimal. In short, you have to match the chipped adapter to the focal length and f/stop of the lens. You can use a plain, non-chipped adapter with any M42 lens, but if you want IS, you will need an adapter matched to your lens.

There are a couple of other things to watch out for. Although a well made Sony M42 adapter should be capable of focusing to infinity, some of the cheaper models are slightly too thick. Even a few thousands of an inch of extra thickness will move the lens too far away from the focal plane, so you cannot achieve infinity focus. I haven’t encountered that problem, but over on the Flickr forums Arkku has set up a nice demonstration of the problem. Arkku solved the thickness problem by sanding the adapter until it brought the lens close enough to the sensor to focus at infinity.

Here a T-Mount lens is threaded as far as it will go into a M42 adapter. Note how much space there is between the lens flange and the adapter. Attempting to thread the lens further onto the adapter would likely result in damage to the lens, the adapter or both. Because the lens doesn’t meet the adapter, this setup will not focus properly.

The second problem involves some poorly made adapters that can jam onto the camera’s lens mount. David Kilpatrick of Photoclub Alpha encountered this problem on an A700 and had to resort to a pipe wrench (gulp!) to remove the adapter. In one of the Sony Alpha foruns on Flickr, another reader reported his adapter had become jammed.

I have had no problem with my no-name aluminum adapter, which I originally bought from a Singapore vendor off ebay. I would use care using the adapter for the first time, until you are confident it won’t jam. If the adapter doesn’t attach the camera easily and smoothly, I wouldn’t use it. The older Amount dSLRs (Sony A100, Minolta 5d, 7D have slightly different lens mount. Sony beefed the mount up on the A700, A200 A300, A350 and the A900, so even if you have an adapter that works OK on the A100, you still need to ensure it works on later Sony dSLRs.

There are a world of inexpensive, high quality M42 optics available if you are willing to forgo auto-focus, auto diaphragm and other niceties.

There is one other thing to consider if you decide to go the M42 route. If you make a real effort to master using M42 glass on a dSLR, you will undoubtedly become a much better photographer. If you can wring out the best from a screw mount lens, you will find you are a better shooter no matter which lens is on your camera. Since you cannot simply put the camera on full automatic when dealing with a M42 lens, you are forced to think carefully about how to use the lens. The result is that you will be far more comfortable and knowledgeable about your camera and all your lenses

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Tom Bonner

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The post Sony Alpha: inexpensive lenses with a M42 adapter appeared first on Alphatracks.

• Super Telephoto Lens
• DT 50mm F1.8
• DT 30mm F2.8 Macro
• DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6
• DT 55-200mm F4-5.6
• 28-75mm F2.8

No word on pricing or when they will be available, but Sony says they are coming.

I find it interesting that four of the six lenses are DT lenses, intended for APS-C sensors. These lenses will not cover a full-frame sensor like the one in the A900. Sony hasn’t promised any further full-frame dSLRs, but as sensor technology evolves, full frame dSLR cameras are becoming more and more common.

I have to assume that Sony will offer more full-frame dSLRs, but based on these new lens offerings, it appears that at least some of the future Alpha lineup will feature APS-C sensors. Why introduce new DT lenses unless you intend to offer further APS-C cameras?

This is significant, when you consider that The A200, A300 and A350 were announced twelve months ago and the A700 is nearly 18 months old. On average, dSLR models are refreshed or replaced every 18 months. That means that at least some of the APS Alphas are due for replacement or a major update in the next year.

You don’t introduce four brand new DT lenses unless you intend to continue selling APS dSLRs. So I expect that Sony has some more APS-C dSLRs up its sleeve.

At the same time, I wonder about the wisdom of buying into these new lenses. If you expect to move into a full-frame dSLR at some point, these aren’t the lenses to buy for the long haul. You can use DT lenses on the A900, but not at full resolution. Basically a DT lens will turn the full-frame camera back into a crop camera, at reduced resolution.

On the other hand, you can use a full frame lens on a crop camera without a hitch. I think I would prefer to buy full-frame lenses so they could be used with either format.

Of course Sony hasn’t given us an indication of the price of the new lenses. Possibly Sony will bring the DT lenses in at an attractive price level. We will need to wait and see.

I also wonder where the new 18-55mm lens fits into the lineup. The standard kit lens has been the 18-70mm zoom. Unless the 18-55 offers a significant improvement over the 18-70mm, I don’t see any reason to introduce a new lens in this focal range. When you already have a solid 18-70mm lens, why replace it with one that lacks 15mm in the telephoto range?

If it is not a replacement, who will buy this lens if the 18-70 is still in the catalog? If the new lens was significantly faster or offered macro capabilities, perhaps I could see its value. As it is, unless it offers superior sharpness or better auto focusing, I don’t understand this lens’ purpose at all.

Also somewhat puzzling is the announced DT 55-200mm F4-5.6 lens. Sony already offers a lens of this exact speed and focal length. Perhaps the new model will offer improvements not available in the current 55-200mm zoom. Still, you would think that Sony would concentrate on filling out its lens line with optics that are not available, rather than replacing one 55-200mm with another.

Sony is also offering a new 50mm f1.8 DT lens. It will obviously be priced lower than the existing f1.4 50mm, but it is a DT lens. I think the old Minolta f1.7 50mm, which will cover a full frame sensor, might offer a better value equation, unless the new Sony comes in at a very attractive price. It will be interesting to see how the new lens affects the pricing of used Minolta 50mm f1.7 lenses, which have steadily increased in value as the Sony Alpha line has expanded.

Some people are already wondering aloud about the 30mm f/2.8 macro, but to me this makes perfect sense. Remember it is a DT lens, so it isn’t really a wide angle macro, as some have suggested. On a APS-C sensor, it will offer the equivalent of a 45mm macro. Since Minolta sold truckloads of 50mm macro lenses, I would guess there is a place for this lens in the Alpha lineup.

That leaves the mystery “super telephoto.” I take the term “super” with a grain of salt. Not that I don’t expect it to be a good lens. It has the appearance of the highly regarded G lenses, so I expect this will be a G lens as well.

Sony has gotten into the habit of calling any lens greater than 300mm a super telephoto. If you look through the Sony lens catalog, most of the G lenses as well as the 500 mirror are listed as super teles. So super doesn’t indicate this is an extraordinary lens — it simply means the lens is probably greater than 300mm.

The mystery lens does have a tripod collar, so I assume it will be fairly heavy or fairly long; or both. The recently introduced 70-400 G lens does not have a collar, so I am banking to this lens being faster or heavier.

If looks are any indication, it will be a fast lens — but what focal length? There is no indication whether it is a zoom or a fixed focal length lens. It appears to be finished in silver, like the other recent Sony G lenses.

About the only thing we can say for sure, it that it will probably be excellent. And expensive!

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Tom Bonner

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The post Sony Alpha dSLR lens catalog will be expanded with six new lenses appeared first on Alphatracks.

DSLRs are technological wonders, but they don’t have to wreck your budget.

Dec 3, 2008: Christmas is the time of the year when digital SLR sales typically ramp up. Of course this year is anything but typical. The state of economy, at least in the US, is on most people’s minds. Many prospective dSLR owners are tightening their belts and holding off buying that new camera, lens or flash unit. I would never suggest spending money you don’t have on photo gear, unless you earn most or all of your income from photography. If you are a hobbyist, you may need to retrench and put off major purchases until the economy improves.

DSLR photography will always involve a substantial outlay of cash; that is the nature of the beast. You can’t eliminate that cost, but with a little creative planning, you can reduce it. If budget constraints are forcing you to postpone that new dSLR or lens purchase, these suggestions might help you stretch your photography dollars.

Choose a lower-price camera body

There is a famous old saying: “…if wishes were cameras, then we would all be shooting with the A900..” Or something like that.

If you have A900 tastes, but your budget is more along the lines of the A200, there is nothing to be ashamed of. The Sony Alpha A200 or A300 can produce excellent images, and both cameras offer a wealth of features. Don’t be afraid to start out with one of the less expensive models. Most professional photographers, if they are on a budget, will opt to cut corners on the camera so they have money to spend on what really matters: high quality lenses. A great lens on a inexpensive camera can create wonderful images, but even the best camera cannot overcome an unsharp lens.

If you are one of those people who only buy the best so it will last, remember the digital SLR market is still evolving. Only a few years ago, most professional dSLRs were 6 megapixel, APS-C sensor models. Today, full frame, 20+ megapixel dSLRs like the A900 are blurring the distinction between portable single lens reflex cameras and medium-format studio units. Live-view and video capabilities will soon be considered mandatory on any dSLR.

Today’s full-featured camera will undoubtedly fall short of the cameras of the near future. Don’t put off purchasing a camera while you save for a top-of-the-line model. Buy a dSLR that you can afford now and work hard to create great images.

Consider buying used equipment

Buying a used dSLR is an iffy proposition. I have bought two used high-end digital cameras that have worked flawlessly. That said, dSLRs are packed with miniaturized electronics and are sensitive to moisture, dirt, cold and heat. Problems can hide unseen inside the camera for weeks or months before they show up. Unless you know the seller and the history of the camera, I would be leery of buying a used dSLR unless it came with an ironclad warranty.

You can still save money with used equipment, however. Second-hand lenses, flash units and accessories offer a much safer opportunity to save cash. Do your homework and make sure you know what to look for in a used item. You can often save more than 50% by buying used.

Try your local pawn shop

Online auctions and used camera stores are popular places to seek pre-owned camera gear, but don’t overlook your neighborhood pawn shop. You can often find great deals, especially if you know what to look for. Pawn shops are no longer shady enterprises hiding out on the outskirts of town. Pawn shops have moved into the mainstream and now serve a respectable clientele. Pawn shops offer several advantages when buying used equipment. Unlike an online auction, you can actually see and handle the item before you buy. Even better, many reputable pawn shops will offer you a 24-48 hour trial. These shops will allow you to use and return an item within a certain period of time if it doesn’t perform correctly.

Rent camera equipment that won’t be used often

You might be surprised to discover that many pro photographers rent most or all of their equipment. A pro needs to consider the ROI (return on investment) of every piece of gear. If an item will be used infrequently, it is much better to rent it when needed, rather than drop a bundle of cash on something that will sit on the shelf most of the time.

You can use the same technique, even if you are just starting out. Short term (daily or weekly) rental prices can be quite affordable, even for high-quality lenses and flash units. Some rental operations rent camera bodies, so you don’t even need to actually own a dSLR to start taking great images. In addition to saving money, renting is a great way to preview a piece of equipment you are thinking of buying. Spend a week with an expensive lens or camera before you buy. You could save yourself from making an expensive purchase you later regret.

Until recently, it was difficult to find places prepared to rent Sony/Minolta dSLR gear. Alpha Lens Rental in Minnesota offers a very good selection of A-mount lens and equipment. They even have the Sony Alpha A900 (Yes the one with 24.5 mega-pixels) available for rental. They will Fed-Ex to your location within the USA. Hopefully, we will see more A-Mount lens rental operations in the near future.

Skimp on accessories, not the camera and lens

There are some things you shouldn’t compromise on, such as lenses. There are many other items that could offer temporary savings. It is nice to own a top-of-the-line camera bag, but the type of bag you use will not have any effect on your images. Make do with a padded cooler or gym bag until you can afford the real thing. You can shoot wonderful images with inexpensive “clamp-on” lights from the hardware. You can find free plans online for DIY light modifiers and camera stands.

Use your creativity and you will find many household items that can be pressed into service in place of higher priced photo gear.

Save money with manual lenses and flash units

While I don’t recommend wasting money on cheap lenses, my concern is with lenses that cannot produce sharp images. Don’t overlook the wide variety of manual aperture, manual focus lenses on the market. Some of these lenses have wonderful optics, but they sell for far less than a fully automatic lens of similar length and aperture.

You can find millions of very good M42 and T-mount lenses on the used market, some selling for only a few dollars. You will need an inexpensive adapter to mount them on your Sony Alpha dSLR, but if you choose wisely you can find some razor sharp bargains. They will require additional work on your part, but they will force you to develop your photography skills. You won’t be able to rely on your camera’s automatic settings with this equipment. Still, a few weeks of shooting with a manual lens will develop skills and techniques it would take years to learn shooting in the program mode.

How about it? Anyone else have suggestions for reducing the high cost of entering the dSLR market?

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Tom Bonner

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