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Sony a55 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Welcome to the FAQ section for the Sony a55. Here, you'll find answers to the most common questions about this camera, covering a wide range of topics such as its technical specifications, unique features, and how it compares to other models. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a beginner, this guide is designed to help you get the most out of your Sony a55. Browse through the questions below to find the information you're looking for.

Is the Sony a55 also known by other names?

No, Sony a55 is the only known name for this camera.

Who is the manufacturer of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 is manufactured by Sony.

What are the SKU numbers for the Sony a55?

The SKU numbers for the Sony a55 are SLT-A55 and CX86400, CX86410.

What is the release year of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 was released in 2010.

What is the exact release date of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 was officially released on 2010-08-24.

What is the MSRP of the Sony a55?

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Sony a55 was 749.00 USD. The MSRP is the price that the manufacturer recommends the product be sold for in retail stores. It's important to note that the MSRP was set at the time of the camera's release, and actual market prices may vary based on factors such as demand, availability, and retailer pricing strategies over time.

What type of camera is the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 is an SLT (Single-Lens Translucent) camera. SLT cameras use a fixed translucent mirror instead of the traditional DSLR mirror, allowing continuous autofocus during both still photography and video recording. This design enables faster shooting speeds and quieter operation. However, some light is lost to the translucent mirror, which can slightly reduce image brightness compared to DSLRs, and there are typically fewer lens options available.

What is the sensor size of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 has an APS-C sensor, approximately 22.3 x 14.9 mm.

What is the sensor type of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 uses a CMOS sensor.

What is the resolution of the Sony a55?

The resolution of the Sony a55 is 4912 x 3264 pixels.

How many megapixels does the Sony a55 have?

The Sony a55 has a resolution of 16 MP, which equals 16,032,768 total pixels.

What image processor does the Sony a55 use?

The Sony a55 is equipped with the Bionz image processor.

What is the ISO range of the Sony a55?

The ISO range of the Sony a55 is 100-12800.

What are the white balance presets available in the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 comes with the following white balance presets: 6.

Does the Sony a55 support custom white balance?

Yes, the Sony a55 supports custom white balance. Custom white balance allows you to manually adjust the color balance of your images to match the lighting conditions of your environment. This is particularly useful in challenging lighting situations where the camera's automatic white balance might struggle, such as under mixed lighting or when the scene has a dominant color cast. By setting a custom white balance, you can ensure that your photos have accurate and consistent colors, reducing the need for extensive color correction during post-processing.

Does the Sony a55 have image stabilization?

Yes, the Sony a55 has image stabilization. Image stabilization (IS) is a valuable feature that helps reduce blur caused by camera shake, especially in low-light situations or when using longer focal lengths. This technology can be found in the camera body, the lens, or both, depending on the camera model. With image stabilization, you can achieve sharper images and smoother video footage, even when shooting handheld or at slower shutter speeds. This is particularly beneficial for photographers who frequently shoot in challenging conditions or without a tripod.

What is the CIPA rating for image stabilization on the Sony a55?

The CIPA rating for image stabilization on the Sony a55 is not available. This could be because the camera does not have image stabilization, or the manufacturer has not provided a CIPA rating. Without this information, it's harder to gauge the effectiveness of stabilization, if present, or alternative methods may be needed to reduce camera shake, such as using a tripod or higher shutter speeds.

What uncompressed formats are supported by the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 supports the following uncompressed formats: RAW.

Does the Sony a55 have an autofocus motor?

Yes, the Sony a55 is equipped with an autofocus motor. An autofocus motor allows the camera to automatically focus on subjects quickly and accurately, which is especially useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or achieving sharp focus in challenging conditions. With an in-camera autofocus motor, you can use lenses that do not have their own built-in motor, providing greater flexibility in lens choice. This is particularly beneficial for photographers who want to use older or third-party lenses that rely on the camera's motor for focusing.

What autofocus modes are available on the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 supports the following autofocus modes: Phase Detect, Multi Area, Selective Single Point, Single, Continuous, Face Detection, LiveView.

How many autofocus points does the Sony a55 have?

The Sony a55 has 15 autofocus points.

What lens mounts are compatible with the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 is compatible with the following lens mounts: Sony A.

What is the focal length multiplier of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 has an APS-C sensor with a 1.5x focal length multiplier. For example, a 24 mm lens becomes 36 mm, and a 50 mm lens becomes 75 mm.

Does the Sony a55 have an articulated LCD?

The Sony a55 has an articulated LCD with Fully articulated. An articulated LCD provides greater flexibility in composing shots, allowing you to tilt or rotate the screen to achieve the best viewing angle, whether you're shooting from above, below, or even around corners. This feature is particularly useful for vlogging, selfies, or capturing creative angles. There are different types of articulated screens, such as tilting, fully articulating (flip-out), or vari-angle screens. This flexibility can significantly enhance your shooting experience, especially in challenging or dynamic environments.

What is the screen size of the Sony a55?

The screen size of the Sony a55 is 3” inches.

How many screen dots does the Sony a55 have?

The Sony a55 has a screen with 921,000 dots.

Does the Sony a55 have a touchscreen?

No, the Sony a55 does not have a touchscreen. Without a touchscreen, you'll need to rely on physical buttons and dials to navigate menus and control the camera's settings. While this may be less intuitive for some users, it can offer a more tactile experience, which some photographers prefer. Additionally, physical controls can be more reliable in challenging conditions, such as in wet or cold environments where a touchscreen might not be as responsive.

What type of screen does the Sony a55 have?

The screen type for the Sony a55 is not available.

Does the Sony a55 support Live View?

Yes, the Sony a55 supports Live View. Live View allows you to compose your shots using the camera's LCD screen instead of the traditional optical viewfinder. This feature is particularly useful in situations where it might be difficult to use the viewfinder, such as when shooting at awkward angles or in video mode. Live View typically provides a real-time preview of your exposure, white balance, and depth of field, which can help you make precise adjustments before capturing the shot. Additionally, it often enables features like focus peaking and face detection, which can enhance your shooting experience. However, using Live View may consume more battery power and, in some cases, may slow down autofocus performance compared to using the viewfinder.

What type of viewfinder does the Sony a55 have?

The Sony a55 is equipped with a Electronic viewfinder.

What is the viewfinder coverage of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 has a viewfinder with 100% coverage.

What is the viewfinder magnification of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 has a viewfinder with 1.1× (0.73× 35mm equiv.) magnification.

What is the viewfinder resolution of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 has a viewfinder with 1,150,000 resolution.

What is the frames per second (fps) rate of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 can shoot at 10 frames per second.

What is the minimum shutter speed of the Sony a55?

The minimum shutter speed of the Sony a55 is 30 seconds.

What is the maximum shutter speed of the Sony a55?

The maximum shutter speed of the Sony a55 is 1/4000 seconds.

Does the Sony a55 have a built-in flash?

Yes, the Sony a55 has a built-in flash. A built-in flash provides a convenient source of light for photography in low-light situations or when additional light is needed to fill in shadows. It is especially useful for casual or spontaneous photography, where carrying external lighting equipment might not be practical. The built-in flash is typically automatic, meaning it can fire automatically when the camera detects low light, ensuring that your subject is adequately lit. However, built-in flashes often have limited power and reach, which may not be sufficient for larger scenes or subjects at a distance. They can also sometimes produce harsh, direct lighting, which can lead to unflattering shadows or overexposure if not used carefully.

What is the range of the built-in flash on the Sony a55?

The range of the built-in flash on the Sony a55 is 10 meters.

Does the Sony a55 support an external flash?

Yes, the Sony a55 supports an external flash. Supporting an external flash allows you to achieve greater flexibility and control over your lighting, which is crucial for professional and creative photography. External flashes, often mounted on the camera's hot shoe or used off-camera, offer more power than built-in flashes and can be adjusted to modify the direction and intensity of light. This capability enables techniques like bounce flash, where light is reflected off surfaces to create softer and more natural lighting, reducing harsh shadows and producing more flattering results. Additionally, many external flashes support advanced features like high-speed sync, which allows for faster shutter speeds, and wireless triggering, which is ideal for complex lighting setups.

Does the Sony a55 have a self-timer?

Yes, the Sony a55 is equipped with a self-timer. A self-timer is a convenient feature that allows you to set a delay between pressing the shutter button and when the photo is taken, typically ranging from 2 to 10 seconds. This feature is particularly useful for group photos, where the photographer wants to be included in the shot, or for reducing camera shake in long-exposure shots by allowing the camera to stabilize before the shutter is released. Additionally, a self-timer can be used creatively in various scenarios, such as setting up shots that require the photographer to move into position after triggering the camera. It is a simple but valuable tool that enhances flexibility and creativity in photography.

Does the Sony a55 support time-lapse photography?

No, the Sony a55 does not support time-lapse photography. Without built-in time-lapse support, creating time-lapse videos will require additional steps, such as manually capturing a series of images at regular intervals using a remote trigger or timer, and then compiling them into a video using external software. While this method can still produce high-quality results, it is more labor-intensive and may require more advanced knowledge of post-processing techniques. The lack of built-in time-lapse functionality might be a limitation for photographers and videographers who frequently use this technique or who prefer a more streamlined workflow.

What metering modes are available on the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 supports the following metering modes: Multi, Center Weighted, Spot.

What is the exposure compensation range of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 has an exposure compensation range of +/- 2 (at 1/3 EV steps).

Does the Sony a55 support video recording?

Yes, the Sony a55 supports video recording. Video recording capability adds significant versatility to a camera, allowing you to capture not only still images but also high-quality video. Depending on the camera model, video features may include options like 4K resolution, slow-motion recording, and various frame rates, which are ideal for both casual videographers and professionals. Many cameras also offer additional video-centric features such as manual exposure control, external microphone input for better audio quality, and autofocus tracking during video. This makes the camera suitable for a wide range of applications, from vlogging and documentary filmmaking to capturing family moments and events. Video recording support turns your camera into a powerful multimedia tool, enabling you to create dynamic content with ease.

What video formats are supported by the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 supports the following video formats: MPEG4, H.264, AVCHD.

What video resolutions are supported by the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 can record video in the following resolutions: 1440 x 1080, 1920 x 1080.

Does the Sony a55 have a built-in microphone?

Yes, the Sony a55 has a built-in microphone. A built-in microphone allows you to capture audio directly while recording video, making it convenient for on-the-go videography, vlogging, or casual video shoots. While built-in microphones are useful for capturing basic audio, they typically have limitations in sound quality, such as picking up ambient noise or not providing the best clarity and richness. For general use and casual projects, a built-in microphone can be sufficient. However, for higher-quality audio, such as in professional video production, an external microphone may still be preferred to ensure clearer and more focused sound recording.

Does the Sony a55 have built-in speakers?

No, the Sony a55 does not have built-in speakers. Without built-in speakers, you will need to use external headphones or transfer the video files to another device to check the audio playback. While this adds a step to the process, it also encourages the use of higher-quality audio monitoring tools, which can be more reliable than built-in speakers. This might not be a significant issue for photographers focused solely on still images, but for videographers, the lack of built-in speakers could be a minor inconvenience when trying to quickly assess audio on the go.

What memory card types are supported by the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 supports the following memory card types: Memory Stick Pro Duo, SD/SDHC.

Does the Sony a55 have an HDMI output?

Yes, the Sony a55 has an HDMI output. An HDMI output allows you to connect the camera directly to external displays, such as a monitor, TV, or projector, for viewing your photos and videos on a larger screen. This feature is especially useful for photographers and videographers who want to review their work in greater detail or present it to others without transferring files to another device. Additionally, HDMI outputs are often used in professional setups for live streaming, external video recording, or monitoring during shoots. With an HDMI connection, you can achieve high-quality, real-time video output, which is essential for precise framing, focus, and exposure control in critical situations.

Does the Sony a55 have a microphone port?

No, the Sony a55 does not have a microphone port. Without a microphone port, you'll need to rely on the camera's built-in microphone for audio recording, which may not deliver the best sound quality, especially in noisy environments or when capturing distant subjects. While the built-in microphone is convenient for basic recordings, it often picks up a lot of ambient noise and may not capture audio with the clarity and focus needed for professional video work. For those who require high-quality audio, the lack of a microphone port could be a significant drawback, necessitating the use of separate audio recording devices or post-production syncing.

Does the Sony a55 have a headphone port?

No, the Sony a55 does not have a headphone port. Without a headphone port, you won't be able to monitor audio in real-time during recording, which can make it more challenging to ensure that the sound quality is adequate. This could lead to audio issues going unnoticed until after the recording is complete, potentially requiring more extensive editing or reshoots. For casual users, this might not be a significant concern, but for professionals and serious content creators, the lack of a headphone port could be a limitation, as it reduces the ability to ensure precise audio capture during filming.

Does the Sony a55 have wireless connectivity?

Yes, the Sony a55 has wireless connectivity. Wireless connectivity allows you to transfer photos and videos directly from your camera to other devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or computers, without the need for cables. This feature is particularly useful for quickly sharing your images on social media, backing up your work on the go, or remotely controlling the camera using a compatible app. Some cameras also support features like wireless tethering, which enables you to view and edit images in real-time on a larger screen while shooting. Additionally, wireless connectivity can include features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC, each offering different advantages for seamless and efficient workflows.

What is the wireless SKU for the Sony a55?

The wireless SKU for the Sony a55 is not available.

Does the Sony a55 support remote control?

Yes, the Sony a55 supports remote control. Remote control functionality allows you to operate the camera from a distance, which is particularly useful for situations like self-portraits, group photos, long-exposure shots, or wildlife photography where you need to avoid disturbing the scene. Depending on the camera, remote control can be achieved through various methods, such as dedicated remote triggers, smartphone apps, or even via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity. This feature enhances convenience and flexibility, enabling you to adjust settings, trigger the shutter, and review images without physically touching the camera, which helps to reduce camera shake and ensures sharper images.

What is the remote control SKU for the Sony a55?

The remote control SKU for the Sony a55 is not available.

Does the Sony a55 have GPS?

Yes, the Sony a55 has GPS. GPS functionality allows your camera to automatically tag the location of each photo you take with geographic coordinates, which is especially useful for travel photographers, journalists, and anyone who wants to keep a detailed record of where their photos were captured. This feature makes it easy to organize and search your photos by location in software like Lightroom or other photo management tools. GPS can also be beneficial for documenting trips, creating geo-tagged photo albums, and sharing location-specific content on social media. Additionally, GPS data can be used in post-processing to map your photos or integrate them with other geo-referenced media.

What is the GPS SKU for the Sony a55?

The GPS SKU for the Sony a55 is not available.

Is the Sony a55 environmentally sealed?

No, the Sony a55 is not environmentally sealed. Without environmental sealing, the camera may be more vulnerable to damage from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. This can limit its reliability in harsh or unpredictable conditions, making it more suitable for controlled environments or fair-weather shooting. Photographers who frequently work outdoors or in challenging conditions might need to take additional precautions, such as using protective covers or avoiding exposure to adverse weather. While the lack of sealing might not be a major issue for casual or indoor photography, it could be a significant consideration for professionals or enthusiasts who require durability and resilience in their equipment.

What type of battery does the Sony a55 use?

The Sony a55 uses a Battery Pack battery.

What are the battery details for the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 battery details: Rechargeable NP-FW50 battery & charger.

What is the battery SKU for the Sony a55?

The battery SKU for the Sony a55 is NP-FW50.

What is the battery life of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 can take approximately 380 shots according to CIPA standards. CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) is an industry standard that provides a consistent way to measure and compare battery life across different camera models. These tests simulate real-world usage by including a mix of shooting, reviewing images, and using the camera's built-in flash. This is considered below average battery life, so it's recommended to carry extra batteries or plan for more frequent recharges, especially on longer shoots.

What are the dimensions of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 has the following dimensions: width 124 mm, height 92 mm, depth 85 mm.

What is the weight of the Sony a55?

The Sony a55 weighs 500 grams including the battery.

Written by Henrik Törner

Camera Expert and Founder of Cameraby