Sony alpha 300 - Manual (Page 5)

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Vibrant, true-to-life color reproduction
with rich image detail and
tonal gradation
DT 55-200mm F4.-5.6 (SAL55200), A mode, F14 (1/50 sec.), ISO 100, Auto white balance
A 10.2-megapixel CCD image sensor
for beautiful, high-definition imaging
The 300's high-resolution CCD image sensor captures
light in much the same way as the retina of an eye. Both
the CCD and its associated circuitry benefit from Sony’s
long experience in semiconductor and microprocessor
manufacturing, enabling a significant reduction in the
analog signal noise that tends to increase at higher pixel
densities. The 10.2-megapixel CCD assures stunning image
quality even on big 12" x 16" (297mm x 420mm) prints, and
because it’s a large 23.6 x 15.8mm APS-C type CCD, it of-
fers approximately 15 times the surface area of the 1/2.5-
inch sensors used in most compact digital cameras, and
has larger individual photosensitive elements that enable
it to capture more image data per pixel. The result is richer
color and a wider dynamic range for excellent shadow
and highlight detail.
Powerful BIONZ image processing engine
for vibrant colors with rich tonal detail
The 300 is equipped with a BIONZ image processing en-
gine that uses advanced Sony technologies to achieve tru-
ly vibrant color reproduction with rich texture and depth.
You can see the difference this makes in photos like the
one on the facing page. Details like the delicate hue and
shape of individual rose petals, the natural skin tones of the
young woman's face, and the subtle tonalities of back-
ground elements are rendered with true-to-life fidelity.
The BIONZ engine is also fast, instantly processing high-
resolution image data from the 10.2-megapixel sensor to
optimize dynamic range and white balance, and reduce
any signal noise.
10.2-megapixel (effective) CCD
Advanced Sony imaging technologies reveal
nuances of eye color and eyelash/eyebrow
detail with amazing clarity.
Working together, the CCD and BIONZ render
the subtle color tones and velvety texture of
flower petals with true-to-life fidelity.