The Sony SLT-A35

The SLT-A35 DSLR is the latest inclusion in Sony's range of entry DSLRs.

The A35 opts for a much simpler and user-friendly control rather than have a plethora of settings and modes available for users to tweak.

It is surprisingly bulky compared to many other models but, thankfully, is lighter than it looks, weighing in at 413g. The bulk also gives it a sturdier feel, making it much easier to handle and operate.

Performance-wise, the A35 delivers better than expected results - especially since it is an entry level DSLR.

The A35 is fast. It can be powered and snap a photo in under a second and there is almost zero lag between the moment you hit the shutter release and picture capture, which makes the A35 ideal for high speed activities like sports.

The camera is also capable of burst shooting, with a maximum rate of about 5 frames per second, but tends to lose focus between the shots. It had failed me on more than one occasion.

The A35 has above average low light shooting capabilities thanks to the built-in Exmor sensor. At ISO 1600, photos look much better than those captured at the same ISO with other entry level DSLRs. The photos look grainy, but not as much as expected, and they are definitely usable.

It should be noted that while the A35 has a resolution of 16.2-Megapixels, the 18-55mm kit lens does not do it justice with its restricted range and depth of field. Be prepared to invest in better lenses to get the best photo quality out of the A35.

When it comes to photo options, the A35 has plenty of modes and filters. Pop Colour and Retro filters can give photos unique looks by modifying their saturation, and panorama mode allows you to shoot a photo with a much larger viewing angle. The A35 is also equipped to shoot video footage, if only in short bursts. A downside of video filming is it tends to overheat after about 10 to 15 minutes, and will automatically stop capturing footage. It has to cool down for a minute or two before it can shoot again.

The battery life of the A35 also leaves much to be desired. It only lasts around 400 shots before it needs a recharge. Depending on your activity, this could translate to a little more than an hour.

The excellent LCD display panel on the A35 is great for amateur photographers who opt to use the display instead of the viewfinder, but I would have prefered an articulated one rather than having it fixed on the body. Even if it does not affect the photo taking quality of the camera in any way.

The A35 is an entry level DSLR, and an exceptional at that. For amateur shutterbugs, the A35 is a great tool to learn with, thanks to its numerous features, good quality and performance, and low price point.

The Sony SLT-A35 is available now for S$1,099.

Trigger happy

Sony's latest entry DLSR is picture perfect - almost
by S Shiva
Updated 07:10 PM Sep 08, 2011

Source: www.todayonline.com