Sony Alpha SLT-A55. Image via Wikipedia

Sony has announced the replacement to the ground-breaking SLT-A55, the first of their translucent-mirror digital cameras. The A55 was rated camera-of-the-year by one of the major photo magazines when it was released, and Sony’s had a string of hits ever since. The new model, the SLT-A57, maintains or improves all the best bits of the original A55, adds a few features, and addresses a few consumer concerns.

The new camera has been built-in a larger body almost identical to the new SLT-A65, which removes the objection that many had to the older camera’s grip. That also made space for the bigger battery used in the A65 and A77. That means about 550 exposures per charge. The price has also been kept down at a price similar to the A55, about $700 for the body alone and about $800 with the 18-55mm kit lens.

So, other than the size and the model number what’s new? Continue reading →