Sony Announces NEX-3N

Designed for first time Interchangeable Lens Camera users, the Sony NEX-3N is compact, lightweight and easy to use. It has a 16.1-megapixel APS-C sensor, ISO sensitivities up to 16,000, a 180 degree tiltable LCD screen and a built-in pop-up flash. The NEX-3N is shipped complete with a 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 motorized zoom lens. The NEX-3N is powered by a new processor, the Bionz, which offers the same noise reduction algorithm as the Sony A99.

30% smaller than the Sony NEX-3F, the NEX-3N is now the world's smallest and lightest ILC on the market. Yet, even with the size reduction, the designers did not skip on features. The 3-inch LCD screen is tiltable to 180 degrees. The camera comes equipped with a hand grip, a feature that many companies are currently forgoing.  And an on-body zoom lever has been added for convenience for those stepping up to an ILC camera after using point-and-shoot cameras. However, Sony has not forgotten those users that still require more control over their camera's functionality. Direct access to ISO is easily adjusted via a 4 way control dial housed on the back of the camera.

Sony has even improved image quality. With the addition of the Bionz processor, areas such as flat surfaces, edges and textures will all see enhanced quality over previous models. In addition, several auto shooting options are now available on the NEX-3N. Auto Object Framing, Auto Portrait Framing, Auto Macro Framing and Auto Tracking Framing are all included to help your images reach that "next level." Imagine taking a picture, but allowing the camera to do all the work when it comes to properly cropping and framing your subjects. That's what the Sony NEX-3N can do in these auto modes. The camera uses basic "rules" of photography to correctly crop an image for the most pleasing results. But don't fret; the camera will still keep a file of your original image. Finally, the NEX-3N offers full HD video so you won't miss a beat.

Available in April, the Sony NEX-3N will retail for about $500. It is shipped  with a  compact 16-50mm motorized zoom lens.