Since Kodak's 1991 introduction of the first commercially available digital single lens reflex camera, the DCS-100, nearly every aspect of the DLSR has been improved to an astounding degree. Megapixel counts have skyrocketed, low-light performance has been significantly increased, frame rates have gone up, auto-focus has been improved with fast and silent electronic motors, among other improvements. With Sony's introduction of it's new NEX 3, it's clear that yet another digital revolution is on the horizon for the imaging industry.
What if you could pack all of the latest and most advanced features of a DSLR into an accessible and compact body? That question became the mission for Sony as they went about developing a mirrorless interchangeable lens compact camera to compete with the likes of the Panasonic GH1, the Olympus PEN system and the Samsung NX10. Featuring HD video capability, DSLR-like dynamic range, live view, RAW format shooting, 2.3 frame-per-second shooting, the Sony NEX 3 packs a number of great features in an incredibly small package.
The Sony's high level of function despite its diminutive size is the most important feature of this camera. Weighing only 297g and with a body depth under half that of even Sony's smaller line of DSLRs, the Sony NEX series was designed with convenience and portability in mind. The NEX body should slide easily into purse or pant pocket, though Sony's current stable of compatible E-mount lenses do protrude from the NEX body enough to make pocket travel difficult.
For a camera of its stature, the NEX is truly a capable imaging machine. The NEX 3 shoots still images at 14.2 megapixels and captures HD video at full 1080p, meaning that whether you're shooting stills or video you can guarantee that the NEX is capturing the moment with incredible clarity. The APS-C size sensor packed into the small body means that you still have creative control over depth of field, which is something you can't do with most similarly sized consumer point-and-shoot models. For even more creative control, the NEX series features a tilting LCD screen to help you nail the framing on your high- or low-angle shots.
Just as Sony does a remarkable job balancing size and function with the NEX series, they also do a fine job balancing the needs of advanced photographers with accessible features for beginners. The NEX menu system is intuitive and self-explanatory, and even offers help features for users who perhaps are not familiar with photographic terms. That feature can be deactivated once the user catches on, of course. The NEX series also includes features such as sweep panorama mode and auto-HDR mode for even more creative potential.
The Sony NEX 3 is truly a marvel of digital imaging technology. In its NEX series Sony produced a pair of cameras that allow beginners and advanced photographers to enjoy the creative control of a DSLR in a highly versatile, capable, take-anywhere package. Starting at $500 for a body and the choice of either an 18-55mm or a 16mm lens, the NEX 3 is also a relatively affordable entry into photography. No matter your background in photography, the NEX cameras are packed with features that cater to every level of experience and creativity.
Source: ezinearticles.com