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Sony Alpha A550

Less is more?

As with many DSLRs, the A550 includes a built in Flash and delivers an even exposure in all focal lengths. Overall, it would be preferable to knock it down a notch, to reduce the flash look, although, this can be done from the function menu. The high ISO on offer actually might encourage less use, and that can only be a good thing for people wanting to learn about using available light. The hotshoe up top is the Minolta standard.

Sony Alpha A550

An interesting feature set for die-hard stills fans

Auto focus is really fast and responsive in both modes in Single shot, but particularly in Live View mode. It also does face detection. It can be set to start focusing as the camera is lifted to the eye – getting it in the 'ball park' for you. There’s an AF/M switch on the body must be for other lens types, as it does not override or have any effect on autofocus lenses with their own switch.

On the left hand side there's the obligatory HDMI port, for looking at your images on your flat screen, plus a USB port for data transfer and a remote shutter release. Thankfully, Sony doesn't twist your arm to use their proprietary Memory Stick/HG Duo format only. It is here but the A550 also accepts SD/SDHC cards and you can choose between them with a physical switch inside the door on the right hand side.

Choosing the Alpha A550 outright is slightly difficult, only in that there are things missing in comparison to its rivals. You can’t avoid the fact there are other cameras in this price range that offer Movie modes and more tweaking of parameters. Yet they don't have the moving rear screen or the high quality preview. Are they good trade offs? Maybe. Although movie mode is, currently, very much en vogue, perhaps the Alpha A550 is here to remind us that these are stills cameras first and foremost and armed with its shadow detail and fast shooting functions, it seeks a new breed of purist?

Verdict

There is much to like with the Sony Alpha A550. It has great autofocus, image stabilisation, quirky but effective HDR and a nice big sensor. If you want a DSLR because you are upgrading from smaller forms, this has auto modes for you to use it with confidence. Overall, it’s an extremely capable point and shoot camera with appeal for advanced users who want the functions that set it apart and for people setting off on the DSLR route, who don't want anything too daunting. ®

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Sony Alpha A550

Sony Alpha A550

The lack of video will raise a few eyebrows given its rivals but, as a stills camera, it has many compensating features.
Price: Body only: £700, 18-55mm lens kit: £750 RRP

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