Sony launches the … yawn … A450

Sony has recently launched a stripped down version of it’s A5xx offering in the form of the A450.  It is basically the same but without the tilting LCD which is replaced by a smaller 2.7” fixed LCD (as per the A230).  In brief, the features of the A450 are:-

• 14.2 MP Exmor™ CMOS sensor
• 95% coverage view finder
• >1,000 shot battery
• Steady Shot INSIDE (in-camera image stabilizer)
• Up to 7 fps continuous shooting
• Auto HDR
• Memory Stick and SD Card slot

Nothing really to shout about on this announcement.  In my opinion, in order to try to understand the Sony DSLR range, I would try to categorize them as:-

• Models that are meant as upgrades from compact Point and Shoot cameras with as small a form factor as possible but yet with interchangeable lens – A230, A330 and A380.
• Entry level DSLR for the enthusiasts – A450, A500 and A550.
• Serious photographers – A750 (I think this is a real model), A850 and A1000 (ahem, just rumours again).

I guess I may try to look at the A750 sometime.  Meanwhile, you can read more about the A450 Press Release here.