The problem with compact digital cameras has always been picture quality. Any digital photography enthusiast knows that when it comes to taking beautiful photos in low light or any lighting condition for that matter, it’s not pixel size that matters most, sensor size is what’s key.

The sensor is what is actually processing the shot to create an image file, like the common JPG or RAW, which is an exact representation of the original image without compression and in-camera filtering. Ordinary compact digital cameras don’t usually support RAW because it’s only useful when you have a big enough sensor to accommodate the details and nuances of your subject.

As I’ve written before on this blog, in order to get top-quality images, with the least amount of artifacts and the most clarity, you need to get a DSLR, which tends to be hefty and pricey. Then there are all the lenses you need to carry around with you to capture the moment, depending on whether you plan on taking wide shots or want to get in real close from a distance with a super digital camera zoom lens. The experience gets awkward fast, believe me.

You also have the Micro Four Thirds cameras introduced by Panasonic and Olympus, which although smaller than DSLRs and take awesome photos, are still on the clunky side.

Fortunately for us, the geniuses at Sony have finally caught on to consumer expectations and are giving us the best of both worlds–a large sensor, the same you would find in a small, lightweight body that is manageable enough to fit into a pocket (although it better be on the large side). The company is unveiling the Sony Alpha NEX-5 and its companion, the NEX-3, this July.

So what’s the Sony Alpha NEX-5 all about? Here’s what David Pogue at the New York Times has to say:

… the NEX-5 contains an APS-C-size sensor — awesome. Yet this camera is amazingly, crazily small. It’s half the weight and volume of a small S.L.R.; in fact, without the lens, it’s about the size of a regular pocket camera (4.4 by 2.4 by 1.6 inches — only an inch thick except at the grip bulge). The lens barrel is actually taller than the camera itself.

He goes on to point out that the lenses are, in fact, interchangeable. But once the optional 18-55 mm kit lens is attached, the camera actually looks absurd since the body dwarfs in comparison to the huge optics. Regardless, the Sony NEX-5 delivers in performance and handling, especially in low light situations, important for people who have an aversion to flash and prefer natural digital photography lighting. Incidentally, a clip-on flash is included in the package.

The Sony NEX-5 has all-metal construction for $600, while the NEX-3 has a plastic body and sells for $100 less. There is also a difference in video resolution.

Yes, you still have to change lenses, but not all the time. The standard kit 16mm lens may be enough to get you going, unless zooming is important–then pay only $50 more for the 18-55mm lens. You can even get an optional 18-200 mm lens that will make the camera look like a bazooka.

Nevertheless, the Sony Alpha NEX-5 is definitely worth trying out.

Photo © dpreview

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