A few days ago, Sony announced several new interchangeable lens devices, including two from their compact NEX line – tiny, lightweight cameras that work almost like full-fledged DSLRs, complete with lens changes. Compact interchangeable lens cameras are a growing market, especially for people who don’t want a point-and-shoot, yet don’t feel that DSLRs are for them. The two new Sony cameras, known as NEX 5N (at about 220 grams) and NEX-7 (just under 300 grams) join their sister camera, NEX C3, which launched earlier this month. These are second-generation NEX cameras, which were first introduced in 2009. Though I haven’t held either the NEX 5N or NEX 7 myself (but have played with the NEX-3, 5 and C3), these cameras seem to be perfect for bloggers looking for something more than a point-and-shoot, but don’t want to carry around a DSLR.
Sony NEX-5N Promo video
The NEX 5N, like its predecessors (NEX-3 and NEX-5), does not come with a built-in flash strobe. Rather, the camera comes with an external flash that can be placed in the “Smart Accessories Terminal 2” on the camera. It also does not have a built-in viewfinder (the external one makes the camera rather unattractive), though sister camera, the NEX-7 does. Both cameras have touch screen features. Price-wise, the NEX 5N is much more affordable – at about $800 Canadian including lenses. On the other hand, the NEX-7 is about $1,200 – and that’s without lenses. Way too much for most people. Though both cameras have a shutter speed of 10 frames per second (fps), the 5N shoots pictures at 16.1 megapixels while the NEX-7 is 24.3. Bloggers, especially those who shoot outfit pictures of themselves or food, don’t need very high megapixels. In fact, higher would just slow down your site.
Sony NEX-7 Promo video
As someone who works in online media who wants something better than a point-and-shoot, these cameras are definitely ideal. I can take them practically everywhere and they fit in most larger purses – especially for events. However, for actual fashion and event shoots, a more mainstream DSLR or one of Sony’s translucent mirror cameras preferred.
The NEX-5N and NEX-7 will be available in September and November, respectively. They can now be pre-ordered online. Sony also announced two translucent mirror cameras (a65 and a77), both with 24.3 Megapixels and 10 frames per second.
