Page 1 Owner’s Record The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. DSLR-A100 Serial No. ___________________________ ©...
Page 2 WARNING To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. For Customers in the U.S.A. This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
Page 3: Important Safeguards
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS For your protection, please read these safety instructions completely before operating the appliance, and keep this manual for future reference. Carefully observe all warnings, precautions and instructions on the appliance, or the one described in the operating instructions and adhere to them.
Page 4: Safety Check
Lightning For added protection for this set during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the set due to lightning and power-line surges.
Page 5: Regulatory Information
Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion batteries. For Customers in the U.S.A. If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Services Center 1-800-222-SONY (7669) The number below is for the FCC related matters only. Regulatory Information...
Page 6: For Customers In Europe
If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.
Page 7: Notes On Using Your Camera
Types of “Memory Stick” that can be used (not supplied) There are two types of “Memory Stick”. “Memory Stick”: you cannot use a “Memory Stick” with your camera. “Memory Stick Duo”: Inserting a “Memory Stick Duo” into a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor for CF slot (supplied).
Page 8 Notes on the LCD monitor and lens • The LCD monitor is manufactured using extremely high-precision technology so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue or green in color) that constantly appear on the LCD monitor.
Page 9: Table Of Contents
Notes on using your camera ...7 Basic techniques for better images ...13 Focus – Focusing on a subject successfully... 13 Exposure – Adjusting the light intensity ... 16 Color – On the effects of lighting... 17 Quality – On “image quality” and “image size” ... 17 Before your operation Identifying parts...19 Indicators on the monitor...22...
Page 10 Adjusting the exposure ... 65 Locking the exposure (AE lock) ... 67 Slow Sync (Shooting the dark background with flash)... 69 Depth-of-field preview ... 70 Focusing manually ... 71 Using the viewing functions Switching the playback screen... 72 Displaying the histogram... 74 Rotating an image...
Page 11 Custom menu 1...93 Priority setup FocusHoldButt. AEL button Ctrl dial set Exp. comp. set AF illuminator Custom menu 2...96 Shutter lock Shutter lock AF area setup Monitor Disp. Rec. display Play. display Setup menu 1 ...98 LCDbrightness Transfer mode Video output Audio signals Language Date/Time set...
Page 12 Printing images How to print images ... 122 Printing images directly using a PictBridge compliant printer ... 123 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting... 127 Warning messages ... 137 Others On the “Memory Stick” ... 139 On the CF card/Microdrive... 141 On the battery pack ... 142 On the battery charger...
Page 13: Basic Techniques For Better Images
Focus Exposure Focus Focusing on a subject successfully When you look into the viewfinder, or you press the shutter button halfway down, the camera adjusts the focus automatically (Auto Focus). Make it a habit to press the shutter button only halfway down to confirm that the subject is visually in focus.
Page 14 Hints for preventing blur Hold the camera steady, keeping your arms at your side and support the lens with the palm of your left hand. Step out with one foot to stabilize your upper body, leaning against a wall or putting your elbow on a table will also provide support. Using a tripod, or using the Super SteadyShot function is also recommended.
Page 15 2 Keep the shutter button halfway down, and put the subject back in the original position to re- compose the shot. 3 Press the shutter button fully down to take the picture. • The focus-lock function will lock the exposure as well (when multi segment metering is selected (page 58)).
Page 16: Exposure Adjusting The Light Intensity
Exposure Adjusting the light intensity You can create various images by adjusting the shutter speed and aperture. Exposure is the amount of light that the camera will receive when you release the shutter. Overexposure = too much light Whitish image Correct exposure Underexposure = too little light...
Page 17: Color On The Effects Of Lighting
Color On the effects of lighting The apparent color of the subject is affected by the lighting conditions. Example: The color of an image affected by light sources Weather/lighting Daylight Characteristics of White (standard) light The color tones are adjusted automatically in the auto white balance mode. However, you can adjust color tones manually with the white balance mode (page 46).
Page 18 Selecting the image size for use Pixel The default settings are marked with Image size* L:10M Larger M:5.6M S:2.5M Smaller * The images recorded using the camera are the same 3:2 ratio as used photograph printing paper or postcards, etc. ** This is a size larger than A3 size.
Page 19: Before Your Operation
Before your operation Identifying parts Do not directly touch these parts. See the pages in parentheses for details of operation. A Mode dial (31) (Drive) button (60) C Shutter button ( step 5 in “Read This First”) D Control dial (33, 94) E Self-timer lamp (62) F Lens contacts* G Mirror*...
Page 20 N For shooting: +/– (Exposure) button (37, For viewing: (Reduce) button (72, O For shooting: AEL (AE lock) button (39, 67) For viewing: (Enlarge) button (77) P Access lamp ( step 4 in “Read This First”) (Super SteadyShot) switch ( step 5 in “Read This First”) R CF card cover ( step 4 in “Read This...
Page 21 Attaching the shoulder strap This camera has two hooks to attach the shoulder strap. Attach the end of the strap with the remote commander clip on the grip side of the camera. Attach the other end of the strap on the other side of the camera. Remote commander clip Holder Ring When threading the strap through the...
Page 22: Indicators On The Monitor
See the pages in parentheses for details of operation. Viewfinder Display Indication Wide focus frames (51) Local focus frames (51) Spot AF frames (51) Spot-metering area (51) Display Indication Flash-compensation (57) Flashing: The flash is being charged Lit: The flash has been charged ( This First”) Wireless flash (54)
Page 23 Display Indication Color mode (49) Contrast (50) Saturation (50) Sharpness (50) D-range optimizer (49) Metering (58) AF area (51) AF mode (53) Release priority (93) Drive mode (60) Image size (83) FINE STD Image quality (83) RAW RAW+ Display Indication AE lock (67) Battery remaining ( 1 in “Read This First”)
Page 24 LCD monitor (single-image playback) Display Indication L:10M Image size (83) M:5.6M S:2.5M FINE STD Image quality (83) RAW RAW+ Battery remaining ( 1 in “Read This First”) 10:30 Date of recording 2006.01.01 Protect (89) DPOF set (91) 100-0003 Folder - file number (112) [0003/0007] Frame number/total number of images...
Page 25 Display Indication DPOF set (91) [0002/0009] File number/total number of images...
Page 26: Switching The Recording Information Display
Switching the recording information display When recording, the LCD monitor on the back of the camera displays various recording information. Press the (Display) button to switch between the detailed display and the enlarged display that has less information in larger letters. You can choose to turn off the display to minimize battery consumption.
Page 27: Number Of Images
Number of images The tables show the approximate number of images that can be recorded on a recording medium formatted with this camera. The values may vary depending on the shooting conditions. The number of images “Memory Stick Duo” Image size: L:10M Capacity 64MB Size...
Page 28 CF card Image size: L:10M Capacity 256MB Size Standard Fine RAW & JPEG Image size: M:5.6M Capacity 256MB Size Standard Fine Image size: S:2.5M Capacity 256MB Size Standard Fine 512MB 512MB 512MB (Units: Images) (Units: Images) 1279 (Units: Images) 1262 2523 1734 1508...
Page 29: The Number Of Images That Can Be Recorded When Using The Battery Pack
The number of images that can be recorded when using the battery pack The table shows the approximate number of images that can be recorded when you use the camera with the battery pack (supplied) at full capacity and at an ambient temperature of 25°C (77°F).
Page 30: Operation Workflow
Operation workflow The chart below shows the workflow for the following operations - preparation, shooting, and playback. Perform the following confirmation and setup process, if necessary. Preparation Prepare the battery pack ( • Attaching a lens ( • Set the clock ( •...
Page 31: Using The Shooting Functions
Using the shooting functions Using the mode dial Set the mode dial to the desired function. Recording modes Auto adjustment mode Allows easy shooting with the settings adjusted automatically, depending entirely on the camera. step 5 in “Read This First” : Scene Selection mode Allows you to shoot with preset settings according to the scene (page 32).
Page 32: Scene Selection
Scene Selection You can shoot with the following preset settings according to the scene. • You can change any of the settings except [Color/DEC] (page 49). Portrait Shoots with backgrounds blur away, and the subject is sharpened. • To blur the background more, using the telephoto position of the lens is more •...
Page 33: Shooting With Program Auto
Night view/portrait • The shutter speed is slower, so using a tripod is recommended. The Super SteadyShot function is also effective. ( step 5 in “Read This First”) Night portrait Shoots portraits in dark places. Pull up the flash to use it. •...
Page 34: Shooting With Aperture Priority Mode
3 Select the aperture value or the shutter speed using the control dial when the shutter speed and the aperture value are displayed. shift (The default setting) • When the shutter speed and the aperture value are displayed, you no longer have to keep pressing the shutter button.
Page 35 1 Set the mode dial to A. 2 Select an aperture value using the control dial. • The aperture range depends on the lens. • The aperture value is adjusted in 1/3 Ev increments. • Before shooting, you can do a quick check on the image blur with the depth-of-field preview function (page 70).
Page 36: Shooting With Shutter Speed Priority Mode
Shooting with shutter speed priority mode You can adjust the shutter speed manually. If you shoot a moving subject at a higher shutter speed, it appears as if frozen on the image. At a lower shutter speed, the subject appears as if it flowing.
Page 37: Shooting With Manual Exposure Mode
z Shooting techniques When shooting a moving person, car, or spindrift, etc., using the high shutter speed, you can express moment that is beyond what the human eye can see. When shooting a subject such as the flow of a river at a slower shutter speed, you can create an image that captures the subject’s flowing movement.
Page 38 • In the manual exposure mode, even when [ISO] (page 44) is set to [AUTO], it is fixed to ISO 100. • You can assign the function of the control dial with [Ctrl dial set] in the • The (Camera-shake warning) indicator does not appear in the manual exposure mode. •...
Page 39: Manual Shift
z How to use the AEL button in manual mode While you press and hold the AEL (AE Lock) button, the exposure determined by the meter is locked as the standard exposure (0.0Ev). Changing the composition on the LCD monitor and in the viewfinder while holding the AEL button causes the exposure within the spot metering circle to continually shift to match the movements and the display indicates the difference between the standard exposure determined by the meter and the exposure within the spot metering circle.
Page 40 BULB (long exposure) shooting As long as the shutter button is pressed, the shutter remains open. You can shoot trails of light, such as fireworks. Attach a tripod to the camera when using the bulb shooting function. 1 Set the mode dial to M. 2 Turn the control dial to the left until [BULB] is indicated.
Page 41 To attach the eyepiece cover When the shutter is released without the use of the viewfinder, as in bulb exposure or shooting with the self-timer, attach the eyepiece cover to prevent light from entering through the viewfinder and affecting the exposure. 1 Carefully slide the eyecup off by pushing on each side of the eyecup.
Page 42: Using The Function Dial
Set the function dial to the desired function. You can set the focus frame, AF mode, metering mode, flash compensation, color mode, etc. Setting ISO/Zone Matching (page 44) ISO: Adjusting the white balance (page 46) D-Range Optimizer (page 49) D-R: Selecting the color/DEC mode (page 49) DEC: Focus mode (page 51)
Page 43: How To Use The Function Dial
How to use the function dial Fn button Function dial Set the function dial to the desired position. Press the Fn button so that the function screen appears. Select the desired setting or value with v/V/b/B on the controller. • You can substitute the control dial for b/B of the controller. •...
Page 44: Setting Iso/Zone Matching
Setting ISO/Zone Matching You can adjust the ISO sensitivity and switch the Zone Matching setup. ISO is a unit of measurement of sensitivity to light. The larger the number, the higher the sensitivity. 1 Display the ISO/Zone Matching screen with the function dial and the Fn button (page 43). 2 Select the desired value with v/V/b/B on the controller, then press the center of the controller.
Page 45 Zone Matching You can keep the image from becoming overexposed or underexposed when shooting a high- keyed or low-keyed subject. This function is also available for a RAW file. 1 Display the ISO/Zone Matching screen with the function dial and the Fn button (page 43). 2 Select [Lo80] or [Hi200] with v/V/b/B on the controller, then press the center of the controller.
Page 46: Adjusting The White Balance
Adjusting the white balance Normally, the camera automatically adjusts the color tones. However, you can also adjust them according to the lighting conditions. 1 Display the White-balance mode screen with the function dial and the Fn button (page 43). 2 Select the desired white balance mode with v/V on the controller. 3 To select [AWB], press the center of the controller.
Page 47 4 Press the center of the controller. (Daylight) (Shade) (Cloudy) (Tungsten) (Fluorescent) (Flash) • For details on the white balance t page 17 • If the ambient light consists of sodium-vapor lamps or mercury-vapor lamps alone, an accurate white balance cannot be acquired due to the properties of the light source. Use of the flash is recommended to overpower the ambient light.
Page 48 • Pressing v compensates toward M (Magenta), and pressing V toward G (Green). This compensation can adjust among nine steps in each direction. • The increment on the scale is equivalent to approximately 5CC. 5 Press the center of the controller. •...
Page 49: D-Range Optimizer
D-Range Optimizer The camera analyzes the shooting conditions and automatically corrects the image to improve the image quality. 1 Display the D-Range Optimizer screen with the function dial and the Fn button (page 43). 2 Select the desired mode with b/B on the controller, then press the center of the controller. OFF (Off) (Standard) (Advanced)
Page 50 This is the standard color space of the digital camera and suitable for almost all normal conditions. As it is the color space that accommodates the properties of the average monitor, sRGB is also suited for handling images for use in web pages.
Page 51: Focus Mode
Adobe RGB color space Adobe RGB color space has a wide range of color reproduction, compared to sRGB. If the main purpose is to print out the image, especially when a large part of the subject is vivid green or red, Adobe RGB is more effective than other sRGB color modes.
Page 52 (Wide AF area) (Spot AF area) (Focus area selection) The camera determines which of the nine local focus frames is used in focusing within the wide focus frame. Wide focus frame • When you press the shutter button halfway down, the frame used in focusing is illuminated briefly.
Page 53 • While the controller or the spot AF button is held down, the focus stays locked. If the controller or the Spot AF button is kept down after shooting, you can continue shooting with the same focus. • When multi-segment metering is used, the exposure is locked at the same time as the focus is locked. •...
Page 54: Flash
(Continuous AF) To make a fine adjustment in 1 Select (Direct Manual Focus) in AF mode. 2 Press the shutter button halfway down to lock the focus. 3 Turn the focusing ring to fine-tune the focus while pressing the shutter button halfway down. Shutter button Focusing ring 4 Press the shutter button fully down.
Page 55 • The flash indicator is displayed only when the flash is pulled up. (Autoflash) (Fill-flash) (Rear sync.) (Wireless) To perform wireless flash shooting 1 Attach the external flash to the camera (page 145) and turn on the camera and the external flash. 2 Select (Wireless).
Page 56 6 Press the AEL (AE Lock) button on the camera to test fire the flash. • If the flash does not fire, change the camera, external flash, or subject position. 7 Check both flashes again to make sure they are fully charged. Press the shutter button to take a picture.
Page 57: Flash Compensation
Specifications with wireless flashes at ISO 100 Camera-to- subject distance A Shutter Speed All shutter Up to sync speeds speed Aperture F2.8 1.4 – 5 m 1 – 5 m (55 1/8 – (39 3/8 – 196 7/8 inches) 196 7/8 inches) F4.0 1 –...
Page 58: Metering Mode
to +2.0 EV 0 EV to –2.0 EV • You can set the degree of compensation in 1/3 increments. • When the built-in flash is pulled up, the set flash compensation value is displayed below the Ev scale on the LCD monitor. •...
Page 59 (Spot) z Multi-segment metering (40-segment honeycomb pattern metering) This camera divides the screen into 40 segments to measure light; 39 honeycomb shaped metering elements and one metering element that covers the surrounding area. These elements work in sync with autofocus, allowing the camera to accurately measure the position and brightness of the subject no matter where it is on the screen in order to determine the exposure.
Page 60: Using The (Drive) Button
How to use the You can use continuous shooting, self-timer, bracket, white balance bracket with the (Drive) button. Press the Select the desired mode with b/B on the controller. • You can substitute the control dial for b/B of the controller. Select the desired mode with v/V on the controller.
Page 61: Shooting Continuously
Shooting continuously When you press and hold the shutter button, the camera records the images continuously at a maximum of three images per second. • The number of frames that can be shot continuously is indicated in the viewfinder, and when shooting continuously, this number decreases.
Page 62: Using The Self-Timer
Using the self-timer After you press the shutter button, the shutter will be released either about ten seconds or two seconds later. The 10-second self-timer is convenient when the photographer appears in a photo and the 2-second self-timer is convenient to reduce the camera-shake because the mirror is pulled up beforehand.
Page 63 Single bracket (Bracket:0.3Ev single) (Bracket:0.7Ev single) • When using the flash, press the shutter button frame by frame regardless of the setting. • The image is shot in the order of 0 (correct), - (under), and + (over). The order can be changed in [Bracket order] in the Recording menu (page 87).
Page 64: White Balance Bracket Shooting
• When Single bracket is selected, if the shutter button is pressed halfway down and released, “br 1” appears for the ambient light bracket and “Fbr 1” appears for the flash bracket in the viewfinder. When bracket shooting starts, it indicates what number the next frame is, for instance, “br 2”, “br 3”. White balance bracket shooting Based on the selected white balance, and color temperature/CC filter, three pictures are taken while automatically shifting the color temperature.
Page 65: Adjusting The Exposure
Adjusting the exposure You can manually shift the exposure value determined by the camera. Use this mode when you do not get the proper exposure, for instance, the subject and its background have high contrast (light and dark). Press the +/– (Exposure) button and turn the control dial to adjust the exposure. Toward –...
Page 66 z Shooting techniques While shooting images, the camera automatically determines the exposure. When shooting a whitish overall image such as a backlit subject or a snowy scene, the camera judges that the subject is bright and may set a darker exposure for the image. In such cases, adjustment of the exposure in the + plus direction is effective.
Page 67: Locking The Exposure (Ae Lock)
Locking the exposure (AE lock) You can fix the exposure before deciding on the composition when taking a picture. This is effective when the metering object and focusing object are different, or when you want to shoot continuously while keeping the same exposure value. 1 Target the subject for which you want to meter the exposure.
Page 68 Example: When the composition is determined in the scene below and the AEL (AE lock) button is pressed 1 Slightly darker area The indicator displays are as follows when the AEL (AE lock) button is pressed. AEL (AE lock) button is pressed The locked exposure The light level within the spot...
Page 69: Slow Sync (Shooting The Dark Background With Flash)
Slow Sync (Shooting the dark background with flash) When you shoot a portrait outdoors at night with a dark background, a normal use of flash will capture a clear image of the subject, but the background is out of flash range and will be too dark.
Page 70: Depth-Of-Field Preview
The viewfinder shows an image captured with the widest aperture. The change in aperture affects the sharpness of the subject image, creating a discrepancy between the sharpness seen in the viewfinder and in the actual picture. The preview function enables you to see the image with the aperture used in the actual shooting, allowing you to check the approximate sharpness of the subject image before the actual shooting.
Page 71: Focusing Manually
Focusing manually When it is difficult to get the proper focus in auto focus mode, you can adjust the focus manually. 1 Set the focus mode switch to MF*. * MF: stands for Manual Focus. 2 Turn the focusing ring of the lens to achieve a sharp focus. •...
Page 72: Using The Viewing Functions
Using the viewing functions Switching the playback screen During playback, each time you press the the index screen and the single-image screen. (Display) button (Playback) button Single-image screen (with recording data) In index mode (File browser) The folder containing the images now displayed First three digits of the folder name (Folder number)
Page 73 To delete all the images in the folder You can delete all the images in the folder when the file browser index screen is displayed. 1 Select the folder you want to delete with b/B on the controller. 2 Press the (Delete) button.
Page 74: Displaying The Histogram
The histogram and recording data of the displayed image can be displayed. Press v on the controller to display the histogram in single-image playback. Press v on the controller again to return to single-image playback. • You can select images with b/B. •...
Page 75 z About Histogram Dark Light Use the exposure compensation on the positive side. Both ends of the histogram consist only of data of 100% black or white*. Therefore, when the data is transferred to a PC later in order to compensate it, it is impossible to restore the area that has been blacked/whitened out.
Page 76: Rotating An Image
You can rotate a playback image. 1 Display the image you want to rotate in single-image playback. 2 Each time you press V on the controller, the image is rotated as illustrated above. • Once you rotate the image, the image rotation information is retained, even if you display other images or turn off the power.
Page 77: Enlarging Images
Enlarging images An image can be enlarged for closer examination. (Display) button (Playback) button 1 Press the (Enlarge) button in single-image (or index) playback mode. The center of the image is enlarged. • You can scale up or down with the 2 Select the portion you want to enlarge with v/V/b/B on the controller.
Page 78: Viewing Images On A Tv Screen
You can view images on a TV screen by connecting the camera to a TV. Turn off both your camera and the TV before connecting the camera and the TV. Connect the camera to the TV. 1 To video input jack Turn on the TV and set the TV/ video input switch to “video.”...
Page 79 On TV color systems If you want to view images on a TV screen, you need a TV with a video input jack and the video cable. The color system of the TV must match that of your digital still camera. Check the following lists for the TV color system of the country or region where the camera is used.
Page 80: Using The Menu
Using the menu Using menu items MENU button Turn on the power. Press MENU to display the menu. Select the desired menu with b/B on the controller, then press the center of the controller. Recording menu Playback menu • When the desired menu is already displayed (the menu icon is displayed on the extreme left), skip this step.
Page 81 Display the options with B on the controller. • To return to the menu options, press b. Select the desired option v/V on the controller, then press the center of the controller. Press MENU to turn off the menu. • The menu is also turned off if you press the shutter button halfway down. •...
Page 82: Menu List
Recording menu (pages 83 to 87) Image size Quality Inst.Playback Noise reductn Eye-Start AF Playback menu (pages 88 to 92) Delete Format Protect Index format Custom menu (pages 93 to 97) Priority setup FocusHoldButt. AEL button Ctrl dial set Exp. comp. set AF illuminator Setup menu (pages 98 to 104) LCDbrightness...
Page 83: Recording Menu 1
• When [Quality] is set to [RAW] or [RAW & JPEG], image size is fixed to [L:10M]. Quality The image compression rate determines the image quality. As the file size (page 17) of the uncompressed image will be larger, it is common for a digital camera to compress the recorded image. RAW (RAW) RAW &...
Page 84: Inst.playback
About RAW files The digital camera receives the image of the subject captured by the CCD (Charge-Coupled Device), which acts as the film for a normal camera. The RAW format file is the raw data recorded on the CCD yet to go through any kind of digital processing.
Page 85: Noise Reductn
Noise reductn Long exposure makes noise conspicuous. When the shutter speed is one second or slower, noise reduction is activated to reduce the grainy noise that is common in long exposures. • Noise reduction is not performed on continuous shooting or continuous bracketing regardless of this setting.
Page 86: Recording Menu 2
The default settings are marked with Red eye Reduces the red-eye phenomenon by providing low-flash light a few times before shooting when using the flash. • Red-Eye reduction is available only with the built-in flash. (When using an external flash (not supplied), the red-eye phenomenon rarely occurs.) Flash control You can select the flash control mode to set the amount of flash light.
Page 87: Bracket Order
Autoflash Fill-flash Bracket order The order in bracket shooting (page 62) can be selected. The order is common to both ambient light bracket and flash light bracket. • This does not apply to white balance bracket. – – Reset You can reset the main functions of the recording mode. 1 Select [Enter] in [ Reset].
Page 88: Playback Menu 1
Playback menu The default settings are marked with Delete You can delete unnecessary images. MarkedImages All images • Once you have deleted an image, you cannot restore it. • Protected images cannot be deleted. • Use the (Delete) button to quickly delete images frame by frame ( •...
Page 89: Format
Format Formats the recording medium. • Note that formatting irrevocably erases all data on a recording medium, including protected images. 1 Select [Enter] in [Format]. The message “All data will be deleted. Format?” appears. 2 Select [Yes] with b on the controller, then press the center of the controller. The format is completed.
Page 90: Index Format
Index format You can select the index screen format from the following settings. 16 image 9 image 4 image File browser 16 images Displays 16 images on the screen. Displays nine images on the screen. Displays four images on the screen. Displays six images on the screen from folder to folder.
Page 91: Playback Menu 2
Playback menu 2 The default settings are marked with Slide show Plays back recorded images in order with a 5-second interval (Slide show). Select [Enter] in [Slide show]. The slide show starts. To end the slide show, press V on the controller or MENU. •...
Page 92: Date Imprint
To mark all the images 1 Select [All on card] in [ 2 Select the number of sheets with v/V on the controller (increases with v and decreases with V). You cannot separately set the number of images. 3 Press the center of the controller. (DPOF set) mark appears on all the images, and the screen returns to the menu screen.
Page 93: Custom Menu 1
Custom menu 1 Custom menu The default settings are marked with Priority setup Select a setting for shutter release. Release (RP*) * RP: Stands for Release Priority. • When [Release] is selected, “RP” appears on the recording information display. It is recommended that you shoot after confirming the focus in the viewfinder.
Page 94: Ctrl Dial Set
AE hold AE toggle • While the exposure value is locked, “AEL” appears on the LCD monitor and in the viewfinder. Be sure to remember to release the lock when “AE toggle” is selected. • Except for the shutter speed priority mode and the manual mode, slow sync is selected and AE lock is performed when the flash is used (page 69).
Page 95: Exp. Comp. Set
Exp. comp. set In the default setting, if exposure compensation is selected when the flash is used, shutter speed, aperture, ISO sensitivity (only in AUTO mode), and amount of flash light all change in order to perform exposure compensation (page 65). By fixing the amount of flash light, you can limit the effect of exposure compensation to the background that is illuminated only by ambient light (light other than the flash.) Ambient&flash...
Page 96: Custom Menu 2
Custom menu 2 The default settings are marked with Shutter lock You can set the shutter lock to keep the shutter from releasing when no recording medium is inserted in the camera. On: no card Off: no card Shutter lock You can set the shutter lock to keep the shutter from releasing when no lens is mounted on the camera.
Page 97: Monitor Disp
Monitor Disp. The eyepiece sensors located right below the viewfinder determines whether the photographer is looking into the viewfinder or not. The LCD monitor can be set to turn off automatically when you are looking into the viewfinder. Automatic Manual •...
Page 98: Setup Menu 1
Setup menu 1 Setup menu The default settings are marked with LCDbrightness You can adjust the brightness of the LCD monitor. 1 Select [Enter] in [LCDbrightness]. 2 Adjust the brightness with b/B on the controller or with the control dial, then press the center of the controller.
Page 99: Audio Signals
Audio signals Selects the sound produced when the shutter is locked, during self-timer countdown, etc. Language Select the language to be used to display the menu items, warning, and messages. Language], then press B on the controller. 1 Select [ 2 Select the desired language with v/V on the controller, then press the center of the controller.
Page 100: Setup Menu 2
Setup menu 2 The default settings are marked with File # memory Selects the method used to assign file numbers to images. Reset Resets the file number. The number returns to “0001”. When the recording folder contains a file, a number one higher than the largest number is assigned. Select [Enter] in [Reset].
Page 101: Select Folder
Select folder When a standard form folder is selected and there are two or more folders, you can select the recording folder to be used to record images. 1 Select [Select folder], then press B on the controller. 2 Select the desired folder with v/V on the controller, then press the center of the controller. •...
Page 102: Setup Menu 3
Setup menu 3 The default settings are marked with LCD backlight During shooting, the recording information display appears on the LCD monitor. You can change the displayed time of the display. 1 min. 30 sec. 10 sec. 5 sec. • The display appears again if you press the shutter button halfway down or perform some other operation. Power save If you do not operate the camera for given period of time, the camera turns to power saving mode and almost completely shuts down (Power Save).
Page 103: Delete Conf
Delete conf. Before deleting images or folders, a confirmation screen, such as “Delete this image?”, appears. Normally, [No] is selected by default, but you can set this default option so that [Yes] is selected. “Yes” “No” • This setting applies to both deleting images and folders. Clean CCD If dust or debris enters the camera and lands on the CCD (the part that acts as the film), it may appear on the photo image, depending on the shooting environment.
Page 104: Reset Default
When cleaning the CCD, do not put the tip of a blower brush into the cavity • beyond the lens mount. You do not need to put the blower brush close to the CCD. 6 Attach the lens and set the POWER switch to OFF. •...
Page 105: Using Your Computer
Using your computer Enjoying your Windows computer For details on using a Macintosh computer, refer to “Using your Macintosh computer” (page 120). This section describes the English version screen contents. Connecting the camera with your computer (page 107) Preparing the camera and the computer, and connecting the camera and your computer Copying images to your computer (page 108) Viewing images on your computer...
Page 106: Recommended Computer
Recommended computer environment The following environment is recommended for a computer connected to the camera. Recommended environment for copying images OS (pre-installed): Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional, Windows Millennium Edition, Windows XP Home Edition or Windows XP Professional • Operation is not assured in an environment based on an upgrade of the operating systems described above or in a multi-boot environment.
Page 107: Copying Images To Your Computer
Copying images to your computer This section describes the process using a Windows computer as an example. You can copy images from the camera to your computer as follows. For directly inserting the recording medium in a computer Remove the recording medium from the camera and insert it in the computer and copy the images.
Page 108 Stage 2: Connecting the camera and your computer USB cable 1 To a USB jack • With Windows XP, the AutoPlay wizard appears on the desktop. Stage 3-A: Copying images to a computer • For Windows 2000/Me, follow the procedure explained in “Stage 3-B: Copying images to a Computer”...
Page 109 Click the check box of unwanted images to remove the checkmark so they are not copied, then click [Next]. The “Picture Name and Destination” screen appears. Select a name and destination for the images, then click [Next]. Image copying starts. When the copying is completed, the “Other Options”...
Page 110 Double-click [My Computer] [Removable Disk] Double-click the folder where the image files you want to copy are stored. Then, right-click an image file to display the menu and click [Copy]. • On the storage destination of the image files, see page 112. [DCIM].
Page 111 Stage 4: Viewing images on your computer This section describes the procedure for viewing copied images in the “My Documents” folder. Click [Start] t [My Documents]. The contents of the “My Documents” folder are displayed. • If you are not using Windows XP, double- click [My Documents] on the desktop.
Page 112: Image File Storage Destinations And File Names
Image file storage destinations and file names The image files recorded with your camera are grouped as folders on the recording medium. Example: viewing folders on Windows XP A Folders containing image data recorded using this camera. (The first three digits show the folder number.) B You can create a folder by date form (page 100).
Page 113: Viewing Image Files Stored On A Computer With Your Camera
1Right-click the image file, then click [Copy]. 2Double-click [Removable Disk] or [Sony MemoryStick] in [My Computer]. 3Right-click the [sssMSDCF] folder in the [DCIM] folder, then click [Paste]. • sss stands for any number within the...
Page 114: Installing The Software (Supplied)
Remove the CD-ROM after the installation is complete. After you install the software, a shortcut icon for the customers registration website is created on the desktop. Once you register on the website, you can get secure and useful customer support. http://www.sony.net/registration/di/...
Page 115: Using The Software (Supplied)
• For details, refer to the Help. To access the Help, click [Start] t [All Programs] (in Windows 2000/Me, [Programs]) t [Sony Picture Utility] t [Help] t [Picture Motion Browser]. Starting and exiting the “Picture Motion Browser” Starting the “Picture Motion Browser”...
Page 116 Import the images. To start importing images, click the [Import] button. By default, images are imported into a folder created in “My Pictures” that is named with the date of importing. • For instructions on changing the “Folder to be imported”, refer to page 118. Viewing images Checking imported images When importing is complete, the...
Page 117 Hour display screen • To list images from a particular year or month, click that period on the left of the screen. Displaying individual images On the hour display screen, double-click a thumbnail to display the image by itself in a separate window. •...
Page 118: Other Functions
To uninstall the “Picture Motion Browser” 1 Click [Start] t [Control Panel] (For Windows 2000/Me: [Start] t [Settings] t [Control Panel]), then double-click [Add/Remove Programs]. 2 Select [Sony Picture Utility], then click [Remove] (For Windows 2000/Me: [Change/Remove]) to execute the uninstallation.
Page 119: Technical Support
Utility] t [Image Data Converter SR]. To exit Click the button on the upper-right of the screen. Technical Support Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at the Sony Customer Support Website. http://www.sony.net/...
Page 120: Using Your Macintosh Computer
Using your Macintosh computer You can copy images to your computer or edit a RAW data file using “Image Data Converter SR Ver.1.1”. • “Picture Motion Browser” is not compatible with Macintosh computers. Recommended computer environment The following environment is recommended for a computer connected to the camera.
Page 121 SR2 format. Starting up “Image Data Converter SR Ver.1.1” Double-click [Image Data Converter SR] in the [Application] folder. Technical Support Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at the Sony Customer Support Website. http://www.sony.net/...
Page 122: Printing Images
Printing images How to print images Printing directly using a PictBridge compliant printer (page 123) Printing directly using a “Memory Stick Duo”/CF card/Microdrive compliant printer Printing using a computer Printing at a shop You can print images by connecting the camera directly to a PictBridge compliant printer.
Page 123: Printing Images Directly Using A Pictbridge Compliant Printer
Printing images directly using a PictBridge compliant printer Even if you do not have a computer, you can print images shot using your camera by connecting the camera directly to a PictBridge compliant printer. • “PictBridge” is based on the CIPA standard. (CIPA: Camera &...
Page 124 Stage 2: Connecting the camera to the printer Connect the camera to the printer. 1 To the USB jack Turn on your camera and the printer. The following screen appears. • If the screen does not appear, press the shutter button on the camera halfway down. Stage 3: Printing 2 To the USB jack...
Page 125 Press the center of the controller. The print confirmation screen appears. Press the center of the controller again. The image is printed. After the message “Printing finished.” appears, press the center of the controller. To cancel the print During printing, pressing the center of the controller cancels the print.
Page 126 2 (Page 2) [Paper size] Printer setup 9×13cm/3.5"×5" Hagaki card 13×18cm/5"×7" A4/8.5"×11" 2"×3" card 10×15cm 4"×6" 8"×10" Letter [Layout] Printer setup Borderless 1 image/sheet 2 image/sheet 4 image/sheet [Print quality] Printer setup Fine [Data print] Printer setup Date File name Date &...
Page 127: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting If you experience trouble with your camera, try the following solutions. Check the items on pages 127 to 136. Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Battery pack and power The battery pack cannot be installed.
Page 128: Shooting Images
Shooting images Nothing is displayed on the LCD monitor when the power is turned on. In the default setting, the LCD monitor will turn off if no operation is registered for more than • five seconds to minimize the battery consumption. You can change the time setting (page 102).
Page 129 The image is out of focus. The subject is too close. Check the minimum focal distance of the lens. • • You are shooting in manual focus mode, set the focus mode switch to AF (page 71). You try to shoot a subject that may require special focusing (page 15). Use the focus-lock or •...
Page 130 The image is too bright. You are shooting a spotlighted subject in a dark location such as on a stage. Adjust the • exposure (pages 37, 65). • The brightness of the screen is too bright. Adjust the brightness of the LCD monitor (page 98).
Page 131 An error is displayed when setting the custom white balance. The custom white balance was performed at too short a distance using the flash. Or the • custom white balance was set with a vivid-colored subject. Be sure to put some distance between the camera and the subject when firing the flash.
Page 132 Computers You do not know if the OS of your computer is compatible with the camera. Check “Recommended computer environment” on page 106 for Windows, and page 120 for • Macintosh. Your computer does not recognize your camera. Turn on the camera ( •...
Page 133: Memory Stick Duo
Picture Motion Browser Images are not displayed correctly. Make sure the folder of the images is registered in “Viewed folders”. If the images are not • displayed even if the folder is registered in “Viewed folders”, update the database (page 118). You cannot find images imported.
Page 134 “Memory Stick PRO Duo” is not recognized by a computer with a “Memory Stick” slot. If “Memory Stick PRO Duo” is not supported, connect the camera to the computer (pages 107 • to 108). The computer recognizes the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”. CF card/Microdrive Cannot insert a CF card/Microdrive.
Page 135 • Disconnect and connect the USB cable again. If an error message is indicated on the printer, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the printer. Cannot print images. Check that the camera and the printer are properly connected using the USB cable. •...
Page 136 • the battery pack and set the date again ( lost every time the battery pack is changed, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. The number of recordable images does not decrease or decreases two at a time.
Page 137: Warning Messages
Warning messages If the following messages appear, follow the instructions. Incompatible battery. Use correct model. An incompatible battery pack is being • used. Battery exhausted. The battery pack is discharged. Charge • the battery pack. Set date and time? Set the date and time. If the message •...
Page 138 Turn the power off. Cool the camera and wait until the camera is ready to shoot again. System error. Turn the power off, remove the battery • pack, then re-insert it. If the message appears frequently, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.
Page 139: On The "Memory Stick
Others On the “Memory Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable IC recording medium. The types of “Memory Stick” that can be used with this camera are listed in the table below. However, proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all “Memory Stick” functions.
Page 140 • Do not use or store the “Memory Stick Duo” under the following conditions: – High temperature locations such as the hot interior of a car parked in direct sunlight – Locations exposed to direct sunlight – Humid locations or locations with corrosive substances present Notes on using the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor for CF slot (supplied)
Page 141: On The Cf Card/Microdrive
On the CF card/Microdrive • Be sure to format the recording medium using this camera when you use it for the first time. • Data may be damaged in the following cases: – Removing the recording medium while reading or writing data. –...
Page 142: On The Battery Pack
On the battery pack Use only an NP-FM55H battery pack. Note that the NP-FM50 and NP-FM30 cannot be used. On charging the battery pack We recommend charging the battery pack in an ambient temperature of between 10 to 30°C (50 to 86°F).
Page 143: On The Battery Charger
On the battery charger On the battery charger • Do not charge any battery pack other than the NP-FM series battery pack in the battery charger (supplied) with your camera. Batteries other than the specified kind may leak, overheat, or explode if you attempt to charge them, posing a risk of injury from electrocution and burns.
Page 144: Optional Accessories
Optional accessories This section introduces how to connect and operate popular accessories for this camera. For details, refer to the operating instructions of each of the accessories. AC-VQ900AM AC Adaptor/charger When a household power outlet (AC power) is available, using an AC Adaptor/charger eliminates the possibility of running out of battery.
Page 145 With the Remote Commander clip attached to the shoulder strap, you can catch the cord to secure it. HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM Flash A powerful flash can cover a longer distance than the built-in flash can, enabling flash shooting that produces beautiful images. When using the flash (not supplied), remove the accessory shoe cap and slide the flash onto the camera.
Page 146 • High speed sync mode is not available when the two-second self-timer or [Rear sync.] is selected. • If a flash meter or a color meter is used, high speed sync mode is not available because the proper exposure cannot be attained. Either deactivate the high speed sync mode (“HSS” does not appear on the LCD window of the flash) or select a shutter speed slower than the flash sync speed.
Page 147: Precautions
Precautions Do not use/store the camera in the following places • In an extremely hot, dry or humid place In places such as in a car parked in the sun, the camera body may become deformed and this may cause a malfunction. •...
Page 148: On The Internal Rechargeable
On the internal rechargeable battery This camera has an internal rechargeable battery for maintaining the date and time and other settings regardless of whether the power is on or off. This rechargeable battery is continually charged as long as you are using the camera. However, if you use the camera for only short periods, it discharges gradually, and if you do not use the camera at all for about 8 month it becomes...
Page 149: Specifications
[System] Camera Type Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera with built-in flash and interchangeable lenses Lens All of Sony Lens [CCD] Total pixel number of camera Approx. 10 800 000 pixels Effective pixel number of camera Approx. 10 200 000 pixels Image sensor 23.6×15.8 mm (APS-C format)
Page 150 Operating temperature 0 to +40°C (+32 to +104°F) (When using the Microdrive: +5 to +40°C (41 to +104°F)) Exif Exif Ver. 2.21 USB communication Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 compliant) BC-VM10 Battery charger Input rating 100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Output rating 8.4 V DC, 750 mA Operating temperature range...
Page 151: Reset Default
Reset default z: reset a: not reset Pages on the “Read This First” Using the dial or button Items Super SteadyShot Adjusting the diopter Recording display Exposure mode ISO/Zone Matching White balance Preset white balance Color temperature/CC filter Custom white balance D-Range Optimizer Color mode/Contrast/ Saturation/Sharpness...
Page 152 Recording menu Items Image size Quality Inst.Playback Noise reductn Eye-Start AF Red eye Flash control Flash default Bracket order A: AUTO shooting (page 31) B: Scene Selection (page 32) C: Reset of recording function (page 87) D: Reset default (page 104) Playback menu Items Index format...
Page 153 Custom menu Items Priority setup FocusHoldButt. AEL button Ctrl dial set Exp. comp. set AF illuminator Shutter lock Shutter lock AF area setup Monitor Disp. Rec. display Play. display A: AUTO shooting (page 31) B: Scene Selection (page 32) C: Reset of recording function (page 87) D: Reset default (page 104) Reset to Focus hold...
Page 154 Setup menu Items LCD brightness Transfer mode Video output Audio signals Date/Time set File # memory Folder name Select folder LCD backlight Power save MenuSec.Memory Delete conf. A: AUTO shooting (page 31) B: Scene Selection (page 32) C: Reset of recording function (page 87) D: Reset default (page 104) Reset to Standard...
Page 155: Index
Index Index Numerics 40-segment honeycomb pattern metering...59 AC Adaptor/charger...144 Access lamp t step 4 in “Read This First” Accessory shoe cap...145 ADI flash ...86 Adjusting exposure ...65 Adjusting the diopter t step 5 in “Read This First” Adobe RGB ...50 AE lock ...67 AEL button ...93 AF area...51...
Page 156 Eyecup ...41 Eyepiece cover...41 Eye-Start AF...85 File # memory ...100 File browser ...72 File name ...112 File storage destination...112 Fill-flash ...55 Fine...83 Flash ...47 Flash compensation ...57 Flash control ...86 Flash mode ...54, 86 t step 5 in “Read This First”...
Page 157 Power cord t step 1 in “Read This First” Power save ...102 t step 3 in “Read This First” Precautions...147 Pre-flash TTL...86 Preset white balance ...46 Pressing halfway down ...13 t step 5 in “Read This First” Print ...122 Index mode ...123 Single-image mode...123 Printing directly ...123 Priority setup...93...
Page 158 Trademarks • is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • “Memory Stick”, , “Memory Stick Duo”, , “Memory Stick PRO Duo”, Corporation. • Microsoft, Windows, and DirectX are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/ or other countries.

This manual is also suitable for:

Dslr-a100h Dslr-a100k A100 - alpha 10.2mp digital slr camera Dslr a100 - a digital camera slr Alpha 100

Sony a (alpha) DSLR-A100 Operating Instructions Manual

Before Your Operation

Using the Shooting Functions

Using the Viewing Functions

Using the Menu

Using Your Computer

Printing Images

Troubleshooting

Index

Quick Links

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Summary of Contents for Sony a (alpha) DSLR-A100

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Table of Contents