The Sony Alpha series is a line of digital cameras and lenses developed by Sony Corporation, encompassing both mirrorless and DSLR cameras. The history of the Sony Alpha series can be traced back to the acquisition of Konica Minolta’s camera division by Sony in 2006, which marked the company’s entry into the camera market.
Initial DSLR Models (2006-2010):
Following the acquisition of Konica Minolta, Sony released its first DSLR camera, the α100 (Alpha 100), in July 2006. This camera inherited many features from the earlier Konica Minolta Maxxum/Dynax 5D and 7D, including the A-mount lens system, Anti-Shake technology (later rebranded as Super SteadyShot), and a 10.2-megapixel CCD sensor.
Over the next few years, Sony continued to develop and release DSLR cameras under the Alpha brand, with models such as the α200, α300, α350, α700, α850, and α900. These cameras targeted different segments of the market, from entry-level to professional users.
Introduction of Translucent Mirror Technology (2010-2014):
In 2010, Sony introduced the α33 and α55 models, which featured a new Translucent Mirror Technology (TMT). This technology replaced the traditional moving mirror mechanism with a fixed, semi-transparent mirror, allowing light to pass through to the sensor while simultaneously reflecting a portion to the autofocus sensor. This innovation enabled faster autofocus and continuous shooting speeds, as well as continuous autofocus during video recording.
Switch to Mirrorless Cameras (2010-Present):
In 2010, Sony also entered the mirrorless camera market with the introduction of the NEX series, which later became part of the Alpha lineup. These cameras used a new E-mount lens system, which had a shorter flange distance compared to the A-mount, enabling the development of smaller, lighter lenses and camera bodies.
In 2013, Sony released the α7 and α7R, the first full-frame mirrorless cameras in the Alpha series. These cameras combined the benefits of a compact mirrorless design with the image quality advantages of a full-frame sensor. The α7 series has since expanded to include models aimed at various user needs, such as high-resolution (α7R), high-sensitivity (α7S), and hybrid (α7 III) variants.
The E-mount system has also evolved over time, with the introduction of the FE series of lenses, designed specifically for full-frame Alpha mirrorless cameras. The current lineup of E-mount lenses includes a wide range of options, from wide-angle to telephoto, catering to the needs of different photographers.