The α300 is equipped with an advanced Super SteadyShot image stabilization system to help prevent blurring caused by camera shake. Built right into the camera body, the system works with any α lens, enabling you to capture sharp images at shutter speeds from 2.5 to 3.5 steps slower than would otherwise be possible. And that means you can enjoy the freedom of unencumbered handheld shooting in situations that would normally require the use of flash or a tripod.

All digital SLR cameras are susceptible to dust contamination when changing lenses — it's a fact of life. But the α300 employs built-in systems to keep the sensor clean, and your images beautiful. First, there's an anti-static coating to help prevent dust from adhering to the low-pass filter and other internal components. And to dislodge any particles that do manage to reach the CCD, the sensor is vibrated at ultrahigh speed every time the camera is switched off.

The α300's high-resolution CCD image sensor captures light in much the same way as the retina of an eye. Both the CCD and its associated circuitry benefit from Sony's long experience in semiconductor and microprocessor manufacturing, enabling a significant reduction in the analog signal noise that tends to increase at higher pixel densities. The 10.2-megapixel CCD assures stunning image quality even on big 12" x 16" (297mm x 420mm) prints, and because it's a large 23.6 x 15.8mm APS-C type CCD, it offers approximately 15 times the surface area of the 1/2.5-inch sensors used in most compact digital cameras, and has larger individual photosensitive elements that enable it to capture more image data per pixel. The result is richer color and a wider dynamic range for excellent shadow and highlight detail.

High-sensitivity ISO3200 and 1600 settings let you take advantage of low-light photo opportunities with confidence. When shooting at these higher settings, the BIONZ engine assures the highest possible image quality by applying high-ISO noise reduction immediately before each image is processed. This, together with powerful Super SteadyShot image stabilization, enables you to use faster shutter speeds in low light, and greatly expands the range of situations in which you can shoot.

An advanced D-Range Optimizer helps ensure beautifully balanced exposures in backlit situations. In Standard mode, it optimizes brightness and contrast for the image overall, and in Advanced mode, it optimizes each area of the composition separately to bring out maximum shadow and highlight detail. The D-Range Optimizer can be used on all image formats in all metering modes.

The α300 features 3 frame-per-second continuous shooting that's great for sports and action sequences, and a center-cross 9-point autofocus system that boasts one of the quickest response times in its class. The AF system also offers high predictive focusing accuracy when shooting moving subjects, and exclusive Eye-Start activation, which reduces missed shots by automatically focusing the camera for you as soon as you put your eye to the viewfinder.

In Auto and Scene Selection modes, the built-in flash pops up automatically whenever it is needed. Even when you're shooting outdoors in daylight, if the α300 senses that a subject is backlit, the flash will pop up to provide additional illumination. Flash power is rated GN12 (ISO100·m).

Whether you're framing your subject in the optical viewfinder or the LCD monitor, a quick press of the Function (Fn) button displays the menu list, which gives you instant access to mode settings for the flash, metering, autofocus, AF area, white balance, and D-Range Optimizer. It's a fast and easy way to get to frequently used functions without having to navigate through multi-level menus.

Whether you're framing your subject or reviewing images, the large 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD monitor makes it easy to confirm focus and fine details. Detailed shooting information and RGB histograms can also be displayed for on-the-spot confirmation of exposure balance, color distribution and highlight/shadow reproduction, and the screen automatically switches to a vertical-format display when you rotate the camera for vertical-format shooting. Convenient index views of up to 25 frames are provided to help you find your favorites fast.

The option of recording images in the 16:9 format enables you to view dramatic slideshows on a widescreen HDTV. In addition, if you use PhotoTVHD compatible Sony peripheral devices for image playback, you can enjoy an even higher level of big-screen display quality.