Sony Announces New DSLR Accessories

May 18, 2009: Concurrent with the release of details of its new DSLR cameras, Sony has also announced four new DSLR lenses a slim accessory flash and some colour-coordinated ‘lifestyle’ accessories for the new cameras.
Leading the range is the SAL50F18, a light, bright portrait lens offering superb optical performance at a competitive price. With a wide f/1.8 maximum aperture and inbuilt Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) it is ideal for use when shooting available-light portraits and can deliver smoothly defocused backgrounds.

Sony’s new 50mm f/1.8 prime lens. (Source: Sony.)
The DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM and DT 55-200mm f/4-5.6 SAM lenses make a great basic lens kit. Both cover a useful range of focal lengths to expand creative options and both combine light weight with affordable price tags. The DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM telephoto zoom is an ideal choice for everyday shooting, while the DT 55-200mm f/4-5.6 SAM telephoto zoom draws distant subjects closer with a maximum focal length equivalent to 300mm in 35mm format.
The DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens covers a useful focal length range for everyday photography. (Source: Sony.)
The DT 55-200mm f/4-5.6 SAM telephoto zoom is ideal for shootign sports and wildlife. (Source: Sony.)
Under development for the third quarter of 2009 is the SAL30M28. This small, light macro lens makes 1:1 life-size imaging accessible with high quality optics that can focus clearly on subjects from as close as 2 cm away. An inbuilt Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) is provided for quiet, precise AF performance.

Sony’s new 30mm f/2.8 macro lens is due for release towards the end of 2009. (Source: Sony.)
Weighing less than 100 grams, the smartly-styled HVL-F20AM accessory flash unit folds down to keep a low profile when it’s not being used. Just pull the flash head up to power it up ready for use. A switch is provided to select Bounce flash operation and give indirect lighting for more natural results with portraits and other subjects. The HVL-F20AM also doubles as a wireless flash controller for the full-frame DSLR-A900.

The lightweight HVL-F20AM accessory flash unit. (Source: Sony.)
The new lifestyle accessories include the LCS-TT10, a new-concept carry case with space inside for the camera plus kit lens and an extra lens as well as personal accessories. It’s finished in smart beige canvas, and features two side pockets plus a removable shoulder strap. The new LCS-WR1AM is an ultra-soft, high-quality protective wrap that guards the camera and attached lens from scratches. It’s available in black, white or brown and complemented by a new hand strap – also available in black, white or brown – that attaches to the camera body for comfortable, secure shooting.

The new range of lifestyle accessories for Sony’s DSLR cameras. (Source: Sony.)

The same colours are offered for the LCS-LC1AM lens cap holder, which can be mounted on the camera shoulder strap, grip, hand strap or belt (belt mount requires optional carabiner – not included). The DT 18-55mm, DT 55-200mm and DT 50mm lenses are scheduled for local release in July, at the same time as Sony’s new DSLR camera bodies. The HVLF20AM flash is due for release in August, while the DT 30mm f/2.8 macro lens will go on sale in November. Pricign has still to be determined. Details can be found at www.sony.com.