Gaya Tech: Sony RX100 Mark 3

Sony RX100 Mark 3 – One for Travelling Shutterbugs

Text by SHAHIDA SAKERI | Images by SONY MALAYSIA

Sony RX100 Mark 3 combines the ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* 24- 70mm F1.8-2.8 lens with 20.1 effective megapixel 1.0-type back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor and BIONZ X processing engine that create unbelievably clean and sharp images. Such powerful combination lets users proficiently create depth-of-field or background bokeh effects. Its impressive light-gathering power of the lens, moreover, allows rapid shutter speeds to effectively shoot fast-moving subjects, for example dancers or skateboarders. The camera also performs exceptionally well in low light. It nimbly determines the focus and exposure even as users begin to lose light, and excels in noise reduction. There are various shooting modes available for users to play around and test their creativity, but beginners or those in a hurry may conveniently opt for the Intelligent Auto mode that automatically chooses one of the 11 pre-optimised settings to best suit the scene or subject. The camera also has a Memory Recall (MR) mode, permitting users to set up three custom configurations and save them for speedy use in the future.

DSLRs are often bulky, heavy, and quite frankly, become a hassle to travel with as they require special care, especially when it comes to packing them. Imagine going on a hiking trip with an already heavy bag full of supplies and gears – wouldn’t a light compact camera that fits in your pocket be an easier travel companion? Not forgetting, due to its conspicuousness, DSLRs draw unnecessary attention, turning photographers into easy targets for mugging.

However, after having said all that, all aspiring and avid photographers would agree that lightweight devices wouldn’t worth anything if the reduction in size jeopardises the quality of the images. This is where Sony RX100 Mark 3 stands out: it is a premium compact camera that delivers in capturing exceptional stills and videos, suitable for both photography beginners and professionals in need a lighter second camera.

The camera comes in a tough, aluminium alloy body that is sturdy enough for casual outdoor photography. At the back, there’s a three-inch 180-degree tilting Xtra Fine liquid crystal display (LCD) for more flexibility in taking photos and videos, a feature that travel vloggers would surely appreciate. Solo travellers could benefit from this as well when they are too shy to ask strangers to take their photos. But if you are like us, who prefer taking stills through a viewfinder, you’ll be happy to know that Sony RX100 Mark 3 features a retractable electronic viewfinder (OLED Tru-Finder™ with a ZEISS® T* coating) that stays hidden when not in use. It is suitable for a day-long tour as its battery life lasts up to 320 shots per charge.

Sony RX100 Mark 3 also features a five-axis stabilisation system that make handheld video footage anti-shake, especially when walking. And speaking of video recording, the camera supports XAVCS Video format, you can shoot at higher data rate (specifically 50MB/second), which is unusual for point and shoot cameras. Though the camera doesn’t possess 4K resolution, if you are the type who only publishes materials on social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, then be rest assured that the camera produces top-notch video quality. Besides, 4K videos take up a lot of space, anyway.

By now, if you are wondering “why should I choose Sony RX100 Mark 3 and not its latest cousins in the Cyber Shot™ RX100 series”, the answer is clear: at the suggested retail price of MYR3,149, this model is one of the most affordable premium compact cameras in the market, ideal for those who are on tight budget but still prefer brilliant picture quality. The camera is remarkably easy to use, and definitely more versatile compared to the most flagship smartphones and other point and shoot cameras.

For more information about this model, read www.sony.com.my/ electronics/cyber-shot-compact-cameras/dsc-rx100m3.