First impressions of the Sony DSC-HX50

Today, Sony has announced the latest in their compact range of digital cameras with the HX50. This is not only small and lightweight, but also packs in a powerful 30x optical zoom – more than any other compact digital camera at this size.


Using the HX50, you’ll find that this camera is ideal for sports, travel or wildlife photos, utilizing the 30x optical zoom. Compare this against other compacts around this level such as the Panasonic TZ40, you’ll see that you’re effectively gaining an extra 240mm of focal range (in 35mm terms) which in certain situations could make all the difference. If you’re worried about the image appearing ‘grainy’ at such a focal, you should not, as Sony’s powerful Bionz processor works with the 20.4 MP CMOS sensor to reduce this and give you crisper, high-quality close ups.

Using the long zoom could result in blurry shots, but like most cameras on the market now, this camera features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization which compensates for camera shake by countering camera movements in both horizontal and vertical directions. You’ll probably also use this camera for shooting video (of which the HX50 records in Full HD 1080/60p) , but will still want blur-free results. Sony utilise an active 3-way stabilisation to offset clockwise and counter clockwise rotations, which should result in sharp-blue free footage even whilst walking.

The HX50 features a 20.4 megapixel EMOR R CMOS sensor to capture high quality images, but this means nothing without having a high-quality lens in front of it. Sony has constructed this camera with a high quality Sony G lens. Combining these two elements enables you to enlarge, zoom in and crop your photos without losing detail. This camera also features advanced processing technology to reduce noise and graininess for incredibly crisp, clear images—even in challenging low-light conditions.

Whilst this camera has been designed to be easy to use, you can also add a greater level of creative flexibility with a full manual and dedicated EV control dial featured adjacent to the shutter button. If you want to take things even further, there is also a Multi Interface Shoe whereby you can attach an electronic viewfinder, flash, or microphone for better video sound quality.

Conclusion

Whilst we are yet to get our hands on the HX50, it looks like a superb little camera offering a powerful focal range. The more manual modes give a good degree of flexibility and built-in GPS tagging and Wi-Fi helps you map your memories and share them.

Park Verdict A superb compact camera from Sony ,allowing you to zoom in incredibly close to your subject, yet still provides crisp results. Built-in GPS tagging and Wi-Fi helps you map your memories and share them.

We Love
♥ Amazing 30x optical zoom
♥ Full manual control
♥ Shooting at 10 fps at full resolution so you never miss the moment

CLICK HERE for full specifications, more information and to purchase.

Andy Steel
Park Cameras Ltd.