Sony DSC-HX5V 10.2MP CMOS Digital Camera with 10x Wide Angle Zoom with Optical Steady Shot Image Stabilization and 3.0 inch LCD Description:
Capture stunning low-light images and sweeping panoramic views with the DSC-HX5V featuring an “Exmor R” CMOS Sensor. Plus catch fast action shots with up to 10 frames per seconds shooting. Full HD Movie Mode9 records amazingly detailed video and a 25mm equivalent wide angle 10x high-zoom G Lens allows you to take captivating images. featuring an “Exmor R” CMOS Sensor. Plus catch fast action shots with up to 10 frames per seconds shooting. Full HD Movie Mode9 records amazingly detailed video and a 25mm equivalent wide angle 10x high-zoom G Lens allows you to take captivating images.
- Amazon Sales Rank: #284 in Camera & Photo
- Color: Black
- Brand: Sony
- Model: HX5
- Dimensions: 2.38″ h x 4.13″ w x 1.20″ l, .44 pounds
- Included Software: Yes
Features
- “Exmor R” CMOS sensor for stunning low-light performance
- iSweep Panorama Mode captures stunning panoramic images
- Fast capture with 10fps at full 10.2-megapixel resolution
- 10x optical zoom Sony G-Lens with 25mm wide angle; 1080i AVCHD Movie records high-quality HD movies
- Recording Media : 45MB internal Flash Memory, optional Memory Stick Duo Media, optional Memory Stick PRO Duo Media, optional Memory Stick PRO Duo (High Speed), optional Memory Stick PRO HG-Duo, optional SD/SDHC media
Customer Reviews:
Every Feature You’ve Wanted in a Compact Camera
I’m usually a digital SLR user, but I’ve been waiting for a camera like this to come out so I have something to put in my pocket. The features that really made me decide to buy this camera were:
1. AVCHD 1080i FULL QUALITY video. Check the bitrate — it’s the same as the camcorders. Better than the flip or handheld ‘HD’ bitrates
2. Wide Picture Stitching. I am astounded by the quality of these pictures. Dumbfounded. Check out the ones I’ve posted.
3. GPS Tagging. Yep- been waiting for this since iPhoto introduced the feature into its software.
4. Low-light performance. For a point-and-shoot, you’re not going to beat this. Sure, it’s no DSLR, but it’s pretty great for the price.
5. Price- a zillion features and a totally reasonable price!!!
Mac Compatibility:
I tried out the camera with iMovie, and it worked seamlessly!!! I imported 2 minutes of low-light video footage AVCHD in about 30 seconds from an SDHC Class-6 card. Also used the camera with iPhoto and Aperture, and everything worked great.
Update: I’ve had time to play around with the different settings — you can see some of my results in the customer uploaded images. The panoramas today came out great! I am still awed by this feature (amazon’s tiny photos don’t do it justice). Shooting inside in the MOMA was excellent. Outside, I tried the HDR mode, with limited success (still need to experiment, but see what I got). The handheld twilight mode does what it is supposed to, impressively.
Nice
I’m comparing this camera to my most recent camera: Canon SD1000 and Sony TX1. I’m just a casual photographer. The most surprising thing about this camera is the weight. If you’ve owned some high end Sony or Canon PowerShot cameras then holding this camera doesn’t “feel” normal, it’s way too light for it’s size…but that’s a good thing….sort of. They achieve this weight reduction by using plastic for many of the body parts (the SD1000 and TX1 are mostly, if not all metal). The back is definitely plastic, I’m not quite sure about the front. The mode dial (although very welcome) feels cheap.
That’s about it for the bad news. The good news is the GPS locks FAST out of the box and the picture quality is very good, on par with 10-12 mega-pixel cameras. The Sony “extra” features such as panorama and 1080 HD video work as advertised and add value to the Sony versus the only current competitor (with GPS and a mega-zoom) the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 which has not been released yet. You can compare images between the two cameras on the Imaging Resource site as well as some others.
I’m was going to purchase both this camera and the Panasonic to see which one I liked better, however I’m going to be keeping the Sony. I’m very happy with the ease of use, picture quality and the Sony extra features (such as panorama).
For a case, I’m using the Case Logic TBC302. It fits the camera perfectly with barely enough room in the front pocket to hold a spare battery. The Case Logic TBC303 is much larger but not too useful, for example you can’t put the battery charger with the camera. It could hold some credit cards or papers, though.
Update: Software
I usually never install the included software because it’s so bloated or just not very good to use. However, the Sony PMB (which is on a CDROM or on the internal camera memory when plugged into your computer) is VERY good. Good in that it’s not bloated and it just works. You can do everything you expect such as organize and edit your photos or even update/assign GPS data. Also you can download updated GPS data (which helps the camera lock to GPS faster). I would dare say the software is nicer than Picasa or iPhoto due to the speed and built in GPS features. Some other things you can do but I have not tried yet: you can burn a video DVD (either a normal DVD or a AVCHD DVD with 1080i quality, but you need a PS3 or compatible player to watch those).
Update: GPS
I’m happy to report the GPS function works very well. I took a drive while snapping pictures as a test and then examined the recorded locations. The location was being actively updated because it was able to differentiate my position between shots taken seconds apart going about 40 MPH. Very pleased.
Update: Picture Quality
On closer inspection, the picture quality is a bit soft..I wish I could have the camera automatically adjust the sharpening inside the camera (make it more sharp) but this is not a big deal as the PMB software has easy edit controls. You can also manually unsharp after you take the photograph. The low light performance is remarkable, especially the low-light modes that actively combine multiple images (hand-held twilight and back-light HDR modes do this). As long as you’re steady and you’re not shooting a moving subject you can get some pretty remarkable, low-noise images at night.
Other final comment: when you turn the camera off, there is a slight delay (fraction of a second) before the lens retracts. Not really an issue but just something I’m not used to with my previous cameras and something I just noticed as I’m usually taking quick impromptu photos, on..photo…off. The interface, although totally functional, is not as “refined” as on my Sony TX1 (with touch screen), the LCD resolution is noticeably lower but, again, totally functional.
The mode dial is still bugging me, I feel it’s the first thing on this camera that will go…But only time will tell.
Awesome features! Excellent results!
This has loads of useful features and takes good looking photos.
GPS + compass lets you see where you were and what direction you were pointing when taking photos. Works with the supplied photo browser software and others like Picasa 3. Only problem with GPS is that after you power on the camera some of you photos will be tagged with the previous location while the GPS tries to update the location. GPS can be as quick as 15 seconds, but depends on cloud coverage, the number of surrounding buildings, etc.
Some of the other features I’ve found useful after only a few days.
HDR mode - combines 2 back-to-back images and merges them giving you more dynamic range in the photo.
Anti blur mode - merges 6 shots into 1 to help eliminate motion blur.
Panorama stitch - great for cityscape/scenery. (Only works on the wide angle lens, no zooming allowed)
25mm lens - great for indoor shots with lots of people.
Face detection - easy to focus on people, smile detector makes capturing good shots automatic and helps when trying to take self portraits.
1080i AVCHD capture. (Yes, you can zoom while taking video)
SDHC/SD/Memory stick compatible, takes either of those memory cards.(Finally Sony!!)
As far as the camera body goes, it is pocket-able. The lens does stick out a bit, too bad they couldn’t have made it flush with the body.
Stereo microphone, unfortunately the placement of the microphone may be problematic if you hold the camera with 2 hands, holding with one hand is no problem.
Flash is tiny, and I’ve covered it up a few times.
For next generation of this product, I would hope they improve the GPS feature, make it quicker, give more feedback about the last GPS position that was locked and how old the location data is. Also the screen is hard to see at an angle, so trying to take shots above you head is difficult.
I don’t have many gripes so far. I’m liking this camera
From the Manufacturer
Capture stunning low-light images and sweeping panoramic views with the DSC-HX5V featuring an “Exmor R” CMOS Sensor. Plus catch fast action shots with up to 10 frames per seconds shooting. Full HD Movie Mode records amazingly detailed video and a 25mm equivalent wide angle 10x high-zoom G Lens allows you to take captivating images.
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| Frame your shots on a 3-inch LCD |
Sony DSC-HX5V Highlights
3.0-inch Clear Photo LCD display (230k pixels)
Compose and show off your images on the large 3.0-inch (230K) Clear Photo LCD display, which features a special anti-reflective coating for sharp visibility, even in bright sunlight.
10x (25mm) professional-quality optical zoom G-Lens
G lenses are used in top of the line digital single lens reflex (DSLR) cameras and advanced pro-sumer HD Camcorders. Capture the action up close with the 10x optical zoom, and with the 25mm equivalent wide angle lens the HX5V even allows you to capture more of the scenes in landscape or group portraits.
10.2-megapixel, back-illuminated “Exmor R” CMOS image sensor
The DSC-HX5V features a 10.2-megapixel “Exmor R” CMOS image sensor that brings out the full resolving power of the camera’s wide angle G lens to deliver extremely fast speed, high resolution, and stunning low-light sensitivity with improved image clarity and drastically reduced grain. In addition, the combined “Exmor R” CMOS sensor and BIONZ image processor delivers extremely fast 10fps, Anti Motion Blur, Hand-held Twilight and 1080i movie modes.
Anti-Motion Blur Mode
Capture cleaner and sharper images in low light for non landscape shots. When set in Anti-motion Blur Mode, the DSC-HX5V captures six images in a fraction of a second with higher shutter speed and combines the data from all six to create a single image of extraordinary detail and eliminate subject blur, beyond the capability of traditional cameras.
Intelligent Sweep Panorama Mode
Capture expansive landscapes with Intelligent Sweep Panorama Mode. Press shutter and sweep and the camera does the rest, continuously, shooting images and in one second stitching them together. This model even detects faces and moving subjects to stitch intelligently different widths to avoid subject distortion.
Handheld Twilight
Capture cleaner and sharper night shots without using a tripod. When set to Handheld Twilight Mode, the DSC-HX5V captures six images in a fraction of a second with one press of the shutter, and combines the data from all six to create a single image of extraordinary detail and low noise. With these modes, you can capture images in low light, without flash, beyond the capability of traditional cameras.
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| Capture 10 frames per second at full 10.2-megapixel resolution |
High Speed Shooting (10fps)
The HX5V can capture full 10.2-megapixel resolution images at up to 10 fps, helping to ensure you never miss the decisive moment. What’s more, the HX5V employs a mechanical shutter that helps reduce distortion when continuously shooting moving subjects.
1080i AVCHD Movie Mode
Record movies in 1080i AVCHD high definition at 60i. The AVCHD format captures a high degree of detail and smooth movement, and when footage is burned to disc, can be played back on Blu-ray Disc players, Sony PlayStation3 systems and compatible PCs and HDTVs.
HDMI output
The High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is a compact audio/video connector interface for transmitting uncompressed digital streams. HDMI connects digital audio/video sources such as a compatible camcorder, Blu-ray Disc player, a personal computer, a video game console, or an AV receiver to a compatible digital audio device and/or video monitor such as a digital television (DTV).
DVDirect DVD recorder compatible
With AVCHD capabilities the DSC-HX5V is compatible with the DVDirect DVD recorder, allowing automatic playback of high definition footage. Simply insert your Memory Stick media into the DVDirect DVD recorder and enjoy your movies shot in high definition. (Recorder and media sold separately)
HD MP4 Movie Mode
MP4 is a popular format for high definition video that compresses the size of your audio and video, making your media files small enough to easily transfer to your compatible PC or Mac. MP4 is also highly compatible with the Web, so you can effortlessly upload your media to popular photo or video-sharing Web sites like Photobucket or YouTube. (Compatible PC with internet capability required).
Active Mode
Optical SteadyShot image stabilization with Active Mode represents the next step forward in Sony image stabilization technology, and allows the camera lens a greater range of motion for a superior level of image smoothness. Now you can capture smooth movies on your camera while on the move.
Optical SteadyShot image stabilization
Optical SteadyShot image stabilization uses a built-in gyro sensor to detect camera shake and automatically shifts the lens to help prevent blur without sacrificing image quality.
GPS and Compass
An integrated GPS receiver and compass record the location and direction of every shot you take and let you view your images on a map with compatible computer and internet applications, so you can remember where you took your favorite shots.
TransferJet technology
TransferJet technology, developed by Sony and advanced and promoted by consortium of 18 other companies, allows you to transfer files between two TransferJet enabled devices just by touching them together, without the hassle of hunting for cables or the complication of pairing.
BIONZ Image Processor
The BIONZ image processor delivers the high resolution and fast performance you expect from a Sony digital camera. Fast processing enables unique Sony features such as Sweep Panorama, Handheld Twilight, Antimotion Blur, HDR, etc to take and combine multiple images in less than a second to create wide panoramic images. Images have reduced grain and appear less washed out.
Backlight Correction HDR
Shooting high-contrast scenes can often lead to washed out backgrounds and details lost in shadow. Backlight Correction HDR helps correct for this by taking two pictures at different settings and processing the best elements of both into a single image.
Self-Portrait Timer
Self-Portrait Timer helps take the guesswork out of self portraits by utilizing Face Detection technology to recognize when your face enters the frame. Once the camera detects your face, it triggers a 2-second timer, and then snaps a picture.
Intelligent Auto (iAuto) mode
Unlike traditional auto mode, Intelligent Auto (iAuto) mode thinks for you, recognizing scenes, lighting conditions, and faces, and adjusts settings resulting in clearer images, faces with more natural skin tone, and less blur. By incorporating advanced features such as Intelligent Scene Recognition, Face Detection technology, and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, iAuto mode lets you take advantage of the latest Sony Cyber-shot technology without leaving auto mode. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, capturing a beautiful flower, or taking pictures at an in-door birthday party or wedding shower, iAuto mode will optimize your camera’s settings to help ensure you come away with a great shot.
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Intelligent Scene Recognition (iSCN) Mode
Intelligent Scene Recognition (iSCN) Mode automatically detects eight different types of scenes and, within just 1/30th of a second, selects the appropriate camera settings: Backlight, Backlight Portrait, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Twilight using a tripod, Portrait, Landscape, and Macro. iSCN has two modes: Auto and Advanced. In Auto Mode, the camera takes a single shot using the optimal settings.
High Sensitivity Mode (ISO 3200)
High ISO allows for faster shutter speed, so you can take photos indoors or in low light without the need for a flash. In addition to High Sensitivity Mode (ISO), you can select up to seven ISO settings (Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200) when shooting in Program Auto Mode to adjust sensitivity to your shooting conditions.
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| Face Detection helps ensure you focus on the right subject |
Face Detection technology
Sony’s Face Detection technology can automatically distinguish between children and adults. Face Detection technology detects up to eight individual faces and adjusts flash, focus, exposure, and white balance to help deliver crisp, properly lit images of family and friends.
Motion Detection
Motion Detection, along with Face Motion Detection adjusts ISO sensitivity and increases the shutter speed when movement is detected, reducing blur in moving subjects and faces.
Anti-blink Function
It’s frustrating to think you’ve captured that perfect shot, only to review it later and discover one of your subjects blinked just as you pressed the shutter. When the camera is set to Soft Snap, the Anti-blink function captures two images, recording only the photo with less squinting or blinking. If a blink is detected in other shooting modes, a warning will be displayed after you take the shot.
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| Smile Shutter technology |
Smile Shutter technology
Smile Shutter technology captures a smile the moment it happens. Simply press the Smile Shutter button and the camera does the rest. You can also select adult and child priority and indicate the degree of Smile Detection Sensitivity. Intelligent Scene Recognition can be used together with Smile Shutter mode. This means that beautiful smiles can be captured with settings optimized for the particular scene, even in difficult conditions such as twilight and backlighting.
Scene Modes
The DSC-HX5V features 10 convenient scene modes: High Sensitivity, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Soft Snap, Landscape, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, Advanced Sports Shooting, Gourmet, Pet.
Intelligent AF
Thanks to Intelligent AF technology, capture fleeting moments like a child’s adorable expression with the ultra-quick AF which locks focus in as little as 0.3 seconds.
Scene Modes
The DSC-HX5V offers 8 diverse scene modes for various settings. Modes include: Backlight, Backlight Portrait, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Twilight using a tripod, Portrait, Landscape and Macro.
Easy Shooting Mode
With Easy Shooting Mode, even beginners can take great photos. In Easy Shooting Mode, easy-to-understand basic instructions are displayed on the LCD screen and the camera switches to all automatic settings, removing several function choices and allowing you to focus on just your subject. Since this mode works together with Intelligent Scene Recognition, the camera selects the optimum setting for each scene. In addition the easy mode simplifies preview mode.
Function Guide
This beginner-friendly optional function helps navigate through the various functions and settings displaying the description of chosen functions or settings on the LCD screen.
PHOTOMUSIC
PHOTOMUSIC combines images with music (4 tracks, 5 minutes per track) to produce fun and entertaining slide shows with standard visual effects (Simple, Nostalgic, Active, and Stylish). Select from pre-loaded tracks on the camera or transfer your own from your compatible computer (sold separately).
Viewing modes
Find your photos using the simple folder or calendar viewing modes.
In-Camera Retouching Tools
Retouch and enhance your photos on the go with in-camera Trimming, Red-Eye Correction, and Unsharp Masking functions.
PhotoTV HD
Bring your photos to life and enjoy highly detailed, high definition images with PhotoTV HD-capable Sony BRAVIA HDTVs. PhotoTV HD fine tunes settings on your PhotoTV HD enabled BRAVIA HDTV, such as sharpness, gradation, and color to display images that look more like printed
Lithium-ion battery
Included lithium-ion battery provides added convenience with longer lasting power than alkaline batteries.
Media card slot
For convenient storage and sharing of your images, the DSC-HX5V accepts Memory Stick Duo/Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media (sold separately).
SD Card Functionality
Sony SD memory cards are the perfect solution for storing and sharing your digital content such as high-quality photos, videos, music, and more.
Includes Sony PMB (Picture Motion Browser) Software ver. 5.02
Sony Picture Motion Browser software offers a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort, and view your video and still images on your compatible PC. In addition, multiple output options let you burn your memories to DVD (sold separately), as well as take advantage of one click upload to a number of popular video and photo sharing sites
Includes Sony PMBP (Picture Motion Browser Portable) software
With the pre-installed Picture Motion Browser (PMB) Portable software the DSC-HX5V makes it easy to pre-select videos and images in the camera and conveniently upload them from the camera to a compatible PC and popular Internet sharing sites without the need for any additional software or install.
