Review
Welcome to my Sony Nex-6 Mirrorless Camera Review!! In this Hands On, Real World Experience based review, I will go over everything you Need to Know about the Sony Nex-6. I use pretty much every feature on the camera and have High Res Sample Photos, HD video, ISO Testing, Hybrid AF Testing, and use my Canon EF lenses. I also have tons of Raw files, using various lens combinations, in order to show off the Dynamic Range and image quality of the Nex-6 Sensor!!
If your new to SonyAlphaLab.com I’ve been posting some Sony Nex-6 sample work over the past few weeks and I actually purchased the Camera!! Owning the camera has offered a slightly different perspective on the review I must say, as I usually only have the gear for approximately 30 days normally. This camera is not going anywhere though I can tell you that for sure 
I’ll be using the 16-50mm power zoom lens for most of this review, but I also break out my Canon EF L lenses for hardcore sensor quality testing!! Wait till you see what the Nex-6 sensor is capable of with top quality optics!!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16-50mm Power Zoom Lens Kit – NEX6L/B
Here is photo of what came in the box with the Sony Nex-6, and I have an Open Box Video Here >> if you want to watch but there is a little wind noise in the video.
Click the Photos for the 1200px Version!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens Kit Nex6L/B
Sony Nex-6 Specifications
| Camera Type | Sony E-mount interchangeable lens digital camera with built-in flash |
| Lens Compatibility | Sony E-mount lenses |
| Imaging Sensor | Imaging Sensor: Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor (23.5 X 15.6mm) Anti Dust: Charge protection coating on Optical Filter and ultrasonic vibration mechanism Pixel Gross: Approx. 16.7 megapixels Effective Picture Resolution: Approx. 16.1 megapixels Focal Length Conversion Factor: 1.5x Color Filter System: RGB primary color filters |
| Optics/Lens | Lens Mount Type: Sony E-mount lenses Digital Zoom: Approx. 4x (still images and movie) Smart Zoom (M: approx. 1.4x, S:approx. 2x) Smart Zoom Technology: M: approx. 1.4x, S:approx. 2x |
| Lens Compensation | Peripheral Shading, Chromatic Aberration, Distortion |
| Viewfinder | Eye point: Approx. 23mm from the eyepiece, 21mm from the eyepiece frame at 1m (diopter) Brightness control: Auto, Manual (3 steps between -1 and +1) Display: Display basic info; Levels; Histogram Number of dots : 2,359,296 dots Type: 1.3 cm (0.5 type) Electronic viewfinder Diopter Adjustment: -4m-1 to +1.0m-1 (diopter) Field of View: 100% coverage |
| Print Compatible Standards | Exif Print, Print Image Matching III, DPOF setting |
| Flash Sync Speed | Flash sync speed: 1/160 s |
| Metering System | “Exmor” APS HD CMOS sensor |
| Continuous Shooting | No. of frame recordable (approx.): Fine: 15 frames, Standard: 16 frames, RAW:11 frames, RAW&JPG: 10 framesSpeed (approx., max.) : Continuous mode: max. 3 fps; Speed Priority Continuous shooting: max. 10 fps |
| Auto Portrait Framing | Still images: Yes |
| Drive Mode | Single-shot, Continuous shooting, Speed Priority continuous shooting, Self-timer (10/2s delay selectable), Self-timer (10/2s delay 3/5 exposures selectable), Bracketing, Remote Cdr |
| Self-Timer | 2s or 10s delay (single, continuous 3 or 5 frames) |
| Shutter Speeds | Still images: 1/4000 to 30s (Bulb) Movies: 1/4000 to 1/4 (1/3 steps) up to 1/60 in AUTO mode (up to 1/30 in Auto slow shutter) |
| Shutter Type | Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane type |
| Focus System | Fast Hybrid AF (phase-detection AF/contrast-detection AF) with “Exmor” APS HD CMOS sensor |
| Focus Points | 99 points (phase-detection AF), 25 points (contrast-detection AF) |
| AF Modes | AF-S: Single-shot AF, AF-C: Continuous AF |
| Focus Area | Multi Point (99 points(phase-detection AF), 25 points(contrast-AF)), Center-weighted, Flexible Spot |
| Focus Sensitivity | 0 EV to +20 EV (at ISO100 conversion with F2.8 lens attached) |
| Manual Focus Assist | Yes MF assist (4.8x, 9.6x) |
| Focus Features | Predictive control, Focus lock, Eye-Start AF (with LA-EA2(Sold separately) |
| AF Illuminator | Built-in, LED type (with a range of approx. 0.3-3.0m (with E PZ16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS attached) |
| Interface | Multi Interface Shoe: Yes Accessory Shoe: Yes (with the adaptor ADP-MAA (Sold separately). Multi Interface Shoe HD Output : HDMI (TypeC mini), BRAVIA Sync, Photo TV HD PhotoTV HD : Yes |
| Media Type | Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo, SD memory card, SDHC memory card, SDXC memory card |
| Color Space | sRGB, AdobeRGB |
| Still Image Mode | JPEG (Standard, Fine), RAW, RAW+JPEG |
| Still Image Size 16:9 | L: 4912 x 2760 (14M) M: 3568 x 2000 (7.1M) S: 2448 x 1376 (3.4M) |
| Still Image Size 3:2 | L: 4912 x 3264 (16M) M: 3568 x 2368 (8.4M) S: 2448 x 1624 (4M) |
| Panorama Still Image Size | Horizontal Wide: 12,416 x 1,856 (23M) Vertical: 5,536 x 2,160 (12M) Horizontal Std: 8,192 x 1,856 (15M) Vertical Std: 3,872 x 2,160 (8.4M) |
| Video Format | AVCHD Ver. 2.0 (Progressive), AVCHD, MP4 |
| Video Mode : AVCHD | PS – 1920 x 1080/60p@28Mbps FX – 1920 x 1080/60i@24Mbps FH – 1920 x 1080/60i@17Mbps FX – 1920 x 1080/24p@24Mbps FH – 1920 x 1080/24p@17Mbps MP4: HD – 1440 x 1080/ 30fps@12Mbps VGA – 640 x 480/30fps@3Mbps |
| Audio Format | Dolby Digital (AC-3) / MPEG-4 AAC-LC, 2ch |
| Microphone/Speaker | Built-in stereo microphones / Built-in, monaural speaker (volume settings in 8 steps between 0 and 7) |
| Still Image File Format | JPEG (DCF Ver. 2.0, Exif Ver.2.3, MPF Baseline compliant), RAW (Sony ARW 2.3 format) |
| Picture EffectS | 11 types (15 variations): Posterization (Color, B/W), Pop Color, Retro Photo, Partial Color (R,G,B,Y), High Contrast Mono, Toy Camera, Soft High-key, Soft Focus, HDR Painting, Rich-tone Mono, Miniature |
| Auto Exposure Lock | AE is locked when the shutter button is half pressed (ON/OFF is available in MENU) |
| Creative Style | Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, B/W (Contrast (-3 to +3steps), Saturation (-3 to +3steps), Sharpness (-3 to +3steps) |
| Exposure Bracketing | With 1/3, 2/3, 1, 2, 3EV increments, 3 frames |
| Exposure Compensation | Still images: +/- 3.0EV (1/3EV steps), Movies: +/- 2.0EV (1/3EV steps) |
| Exposure Settings | iAUTO, Superior Auto, Programmed AE (P), Aperture priority (A), Shutter-speed priority (S), Manual (M), Sweep Panorama, Scene Selection |
| ISO | Still images: Auto (ISO 100-3200), Selectable (ISO 100-25600)Movies: Auto (ISO 100-3200), Selectable (ISO 100-6400) |
| Metering | 1200-zone evaluative metering |
| Metering Modes | Multi-segment, Center-weighted, Spot |
| Metering Sensitivity | 0EV-20EV, (at ISO 100 equivalent with F2.8 lens) |
| Noise Reduction | Long Exposure NR: (On/Off, available at shutter speeds longer than 1 second) High ISO NR: (High/Normal/Low) |
| Scene Modes | Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports Action, Sunset, Night Portrait, Night View, Handheld Twilight, Anti Motion Blur |
| White Balance Mode | Auto WB, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Flash, C.Tem (2500 to 9900K), C.Filter (G7 to M7,A7 to B7), Custom |
| AF Micro Adjustment | Yes, with LA-EA2 (sold separately) |
| LCD Display | LCD Type: 7.5cm (3.0-type) wide type TFT (921,600 dots) Angle Adjustment: Up: Approx. 90 degrees, Down: Approx. 45 degrees Brightness Control : Manual (5 steps between -2 and +2), Sunny Weather mode Real-time image adjustment display : On/Off Peaking : Yes (Level setting: High/Mid/Low/Off, Color: White/Red/Yellow) Customization : Graphic display/Display all info/Big font size display/No display info/Levels/Histogram/Viewfinder |
| Advanced Features | Face Detection: On/On (Regist. Faces)/Off, Face Selection (maximum 8 detectables) Smile Shutter: selectable from 3 steps Tracking Focus: object tracking Advanced User Interface: Yes Anti Motion Blur: 6-image layering Auto High Dynamic Range: Auto Exposure Difference, Exposure difference Level (1.0-6.0 EV at 1.0 EV step, off) Shooting Tips: Yes Sweep Panorama: Horizontal (Wide/Standard), Vertical (Wide/Standard) |
| Convenience Features | Still Image Playback Options: Single, 6/12-frame index view, Enlarged display mode, Panorama (Standard), Panorama (Wide): 34x), Auto Review, Image orientation, Slideshow, Panorama scrolling, Folder selection, Delete, Protect Video Playback Options : Forward/Rewind |
| Flash | Flash Compensation: +/- 2.0EV (1/3EV steps) Flash Coverage: FOV coverage up to 16 mm (in the focal length) Flash Modes: Autoflash, Fill-flash, Rear sync., Slow sync., Rear Sync., Flash Off, Wireless (with external flash sold seperately) Flash Type: Built-in flash. Sony System Flash (Compatible with Multi Interface Shoe and Auto-lock accessory shoe with the adaptor (ADP-MAA (Sold separately) Guide Number: 6 (in meters at ISO 100 equivalent) Recycling Time: Approx. 4 sec |
| Other Features | Help guide: Yes Area Setting: Yes Clock Function, Setting: Yes Eye-Fi ready: Yes Shop Front Mode: Yes |
| Wi-Fi | PlayMemories Camera Apps: Yes Send to Computer: Yes View on Smartphone: Yes View on TV: Yes |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista SP2, Windows 7 SP1, Mac OS X (v10.3-10.8) |
| Battery | Battery Type : InfoLITHIUM NP-FW50 (7.2V) |
| Number of Still Images | Approx. 270 images (Viewfinder), Approx. 360 images (LCD screen) (CIPA standard) |
| Power Consumption (in Operation) | Still images:approx. 2.5W (w/ E PZ16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS lens attached) Movies: approx.3.9W(w/ E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS lens attached) |
| Power Consumption (ViewFinder Operation) | Still images: approx. 3.3W (with E PZ16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS lens attached) Movies: approx.4.1W(with E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS lens attached) |
| Dimensions WxHxD | 4.7 x 2.6 x 1.7″ (119.9 x 66.9 x 42.6mm) |
| Weight | Approx. 10.1 oz (287g) excl battery & media 12.2 oz (345g) w/battery & media |
Sony Nex-6 Long Features List
- 16.1 MP APS-C size HD image sensor: The same sensor format that Sony builds into the full-sized ? DSLRs. With 13 times the area of the typical point-and-shoot image sensor, APS-C makes the difference between “snapshots” and “photographs,” delivering an exceptional combination of high resolution, high sensitivity and gorgeous, blurred backgrounds.
- Fast Hybrid AF: Sony’s advanced Fast Hybrid AF combines two technologies for outstanding performance: Phase detection AF for quick response that is ideal when tracking fast-moving subjects and contrast-detection AF for added precision. A perfect match that delivers optimal Auto Focus for fast, precise focusing in any scene.
- XGA Tru-Finder OLED: This eye-level, through-the-lens, viewfinder begins with 2359K dots for amazing resolution and high contrast ratio for incredible depth. OLED reduces motion blur to a bare minimum. You can also see the results of camera adjustments in real time with superb color and detail.
- Wi-Fi Sharing: Wi-Fi capability – a first for Alpha-series – lets users transfer photos directly to smartphones and tablets with the PlayMemories Mobile app. Wi-Fi capability allows for sharing, viewing and saving photos for expanded photo-shooting enjoyment. Photos can be easily transferred to smartphones and tablets, or viewed on TV/PCs.
- Advanced Control Dial: Mode control dial and Quick Navi assure quick an intuitive operation comparable to DSLR cameras Control dial, Fn (function) button and touch screen (including touch shutter function) combine to greatly facilitate operation and speed getting the shot.
- New Multi-Interface Shoe: Unlike conventional cameras, the NEX-6 features a newly developed Multi-Interface Shoe that dramatically expands compatibility with Handycam accessories, thus raising the potential for photo/movie shooting.
- Built-in GN6 Pop-up Flash: A built-in Guide Number 6 flash is located on top of the camera. It is ideal for dimly lit settings and can be used as a fill flash when shooting in bright sunshine or to produce catch lights in portraits. The flash combines with ultra-high ISO 2500 and a large APS-C HD CMOS sensor for stunning low-light photos.
- Picture Effect mode: The Photo Creativity interface enables creative expression of SLR-quality digital imaging without the complicated settings. Changes can be easily made using the control dial with results seen in real time on the LCD. Settings include; Background Defocus, Brightness, Color, Vividness and most Picture Effects.
- Auto Portrait Framing: Simply photograph a person and Auto Portrait Framing will save an additional, optimally framed image in portrait or landscape orientation. Combining Face Detection and By Pixel Super Resolution technologies with rule of thirds, Auto Portrait Framing provides beautifully composed and full resolution portraits.
- Clear Image Zoom: Utilizing Sony’s exclusive By Pixel Super Resolution Technology, Clear Image Zoom increases the effective focal length of your lens up to 2x by digitally magnifying the center of your image with nearly imperceptible degradation. It virtually doubles the effective focal length of whatever lens you’re using.
- Convenient USB charging: Easily recharge the camera via USB charging. Simply connect the bundled USB cable and recharge the battery without removing it from the camera, either via AC outlet or PC connection.
- Full HD Movies at 60p/60i/24p: Capture HD Movies in your choice of super-smooth 60p, standard 60i or cinematic 24p, all at Full HD 1920×1080 resolution. AVCHD codec delivers stunning picture quality. MP4 codec offers smaller files for easier upload to the web.
- Auto HDR built into camera: High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography captures more scene contrast than a single exposure can handle by combining the best highlight detail from one shot and the best shadow detail from another for one incredible shot. Handles severe backlighting and other high-contrast scenes. Captures in a split second.
- 6-image layering: The camera leverages the large, APS-C image sensor and captures six images in a fraction of a second. The camera then combines the data from the 6 different images up to ISO 25600 to create a single image. This helps control blur in Anti-Motion Blur mode or to get cleaner nighttime pictures in Hand-held Twilight mode.
- Sweep Panorama Technology: Capture expansive landscapes automatically. Press the shutter, sweep vertically or horizontally. The camera does the rest, continuously shooting images and stitching them together. Up to 23 MP image size. Up to 202 degrees maximum sweep angle (16mm focal length).
- Anti Motion Blur mode: Corrects for subject movement to capture amazingly clean and sharp images in low light. The camera leverages the large, APS-C image sensor and captures six images in a fraction of a second. Combining the data from all six creates a single image that minimizes subject blur.
- Intelligent Auto Focus: Pre-focuses as you compose the shot, further reducing focusing time to a bare minimum.
- Peaking AF display: The Peaking AF display makes precise manual focusing much easier by highlighting the edges that are in focus in your choice of three colors (white, red, or yellow). This is especially helpful during macro or portrait photography where your focal plane can make or break your shot.
- Manual Focus Assist: Greatly magnifies the viewfinder image when you touch the focus ring, making it easy to get razor-sharp images. Works with E-mount lenses only.
- Enhanced Tracking Focus: Tracking Focus continuously tracks a user-designated subject and is now more effective at tracking people. If the subject turns away from the camera, face-detection tracking automatically switches to subject tracking and continues tracking.
- Face Detection technology: The camera can automatically detect up to eight individual faces and adjust focus, exposure, white balance and flash to help deliver crisp, properly lit images of family and friends. Can prioritize children or adults.
- Smile Shutter technology: Captures a smile the moment it happens. Simply select the Smile Shutter mode and the camera takes the picture automatically. You can prioritize children or adults and adjust the smile sensitivity.
- D-Range Optimizer (DRO): Improves results with backlit subjects and recovers details hidden in shadows. Settings include Auto, Level with a choice of five operating levels and Off.
- Creative Styles (6 modes): Control how the camera processes your images with six finishing styles: Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset and B&W. You can even fine- tune contrast, saturation, and sharpness to your personal taste.
- PhotoTV HD compatibility: Optimizes compatible BRAVIA® televisions for gorgeous display of digital pictures.
- MS Duo/ SD slot: For cost-effective, convenient storage and sharing of your images, the camera accepts Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC media (Class 4 or higher recommended), (Memory card is required, all are sold separately).
- Anti-dust sensor: Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the CMOS sensor clean, resulting in consistently clear pictures. First a static-free coating on the sensor’s low-pass filter helps repel dust. Then vibration automatically dislodges dust from the sensor.
Build Quality and Design
The Sony Nex-6 is a nice upgrade from the Nex-5n as far as build quality, ergonomics and design!! It’s not quite Nex-7 build quality, but certainly good enough for what I want to use the camera for. Everyday real world photography is what I’m into these days.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
Size and Weight
- Nex-6 Dimensions (Approx.) : Approx. 4 3/4 x 2 3/4 x 1 1/16″ (119.9 x 66.9 x 42.6mm) (WxHxD)
- Sony Nex-6 Weight (Approx.) : Approx. 10.1 oz (287g) (excl battery & media) Approx. 12.2 oz (345g) (w/battery & media)
Sony Nex-6 Textured Skin
The skin on the Sony Nex-6 is pretty much identical to the Sony A57, and is made up of a rugged textured plastic. I would put it in the Semi-Pro Build Quality Category. It’s not rock solid metal metal like the Nex-7, nor is it that smooth cheaper feeling plastic found on the Sony Nex-F3 for example. It feels like it could take a mild impact in my opinion.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
3 Inch High Res LCD Screen
The 3″ LCD screen is excellent and usable in most daylight situations, but in direct sun I recommend using the Electronic Viewfinder (EVF).
- LCD Type : 3.0″ (7.5cm) wide type TFT (921,600 dots)
- Angle Adjustment : Up: Approx. 90 degrees, Down: Approx. 45 degrees
- Brightness Control : Manual (5 steps between -2 and +2), Sunny Weather mode
- Real-time image adjustment display : On/Off
- Peaking : Yes (Level setting: High/Mid/Low/Off, Color: White/Red/Yellow)
- Customization : Graphic display/Display all info/Big font size display/No display info/Levels/Histogram/Viewfinder
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
Check out the Sony Nex-6 LCD screen articulation for shooting low to the ground, at the hip, or over your head which I find lots of uses for!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
Navigation and Buttons
The New Quick Navi control knob up top is excellent and a very effective alternative to the Nex-7 tri-nav design, and overall huge improvement over the Nex-5n Navigation layout. The Nex-5n has a touch screen though, so it does make sense.
Also notice the nice re-position of the Record button. No more accidental presses Check out ergonomically friendly thumb notch area which is also a welcomed improvement and makes it easier to hold the Nex-6 firmly with a larger lens.
There is also a function button located just to the right of the shutter release. It is custom programmable with a few options which is nice! The less I have to go into the picture based menu system the better.
The Menu system on the Nex-6 is picture based on the first level and makes common sense for the most part. I personally prefer the pro oriented menus found on the Nex-7 for ex, but they are perfectly usable and have everything you need. I will create a video tutorial going over the menus in the upcoming weeks, so watch out for that!!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Quick Navi
Default Navigation for Manual Mode:
In manual mode, the default set-up on the Sony Nex-6 is Aperture assigned to the top silver navi wheel, and the thumb wheel on the back next to the LCD screen becomes the Shutter Speed. ISO is the right hand side Push activated part of the wheel. The thumb wheel spins clockwise and counter clockwise, but also acts as a 4-way button (up,down,left,right). ISO = Right default as seen below.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
Battery and Memory Card Area
The battery and memory card area on the Sony Nex-6 is pretty much the same as the Nex-7. Really not much going on other than the memory card direction faces away from the battery. In other words, the memory card logo faces towards the open battery door. The Nex-6 takes the Sony NP-FW50 battery!
Sony Nex-6 Battery and Memory Card Compartment
Tri-pod Mount and Nex-6 Bottom
The bottom of the Nex-6 is flat and fairly clean. The Tri-pod mount point is firm, but I would not put a large lens on and trust the mount point on a tr-pod!! My Gitzo Ball head quick release plate mounts up nice and tight to the bottom, and the screen still open’s with it mounted!! At first I did not think that would work and was glad to see it does. You can’t aim the screen downward though with a quick release plate mounted. At leaset the few I have. It sticks out the back completely blocking any downward movement.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Bottom
Sony On Camera Flash
- Flash Compensation : +/- 2.0EV (1/3EV steps)
- Flash Coverage : FOV coverage up to 16 mm (in the focal length)
- Flash Modes : Autoflash, Fill-flash, Rear sync., Slow sync., Rear Sync., Flash Off, Wireless (with external flash sold separately)
- Flash Type : Built-in flash. Sony ? System Flash (Compatible with Multi Interface Shoe and Auto-lock accessory shoe with the adapter (ADP-MAA (Sold separately)))
- Guide Number : 6 (in meters at ISO 100 equivalent)
- Recycling Time : Approx. 4 sec.
I did not have a chance to use the on camera flash yet, but stay tuned for an up coming article on Using Flash with the Sony Nex-6!!
Sony Nex-6 On Camera Flash Open
Sony Nex-6 On Camera Flash – Open from the side
Multi Interface Shoe and EVF
I did have a chance to try the multi interface shoe with my Alien Bee Wireless Flash Transmitter and it worked flawlessly!! More to come on Off Camera Flash and Studio Lighting with the Nex-6 in future articles!!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
The Nex-6 EVF works great just like the Nex-7 and A77 for example. It’s very easy to see just like an optical viewfinder and updates live with no noticeable lag. The EVF also switches quickly and automatically when you put your eye up to it. The removable eye-cup piece could be a little deeper for my particular eye socket, but it’s a minor personal nit-pic really.
Colors, resolution and dynamic range are all excellent on the EVF, although it eats through battery life when using it compared to the LCD screen. You only get ~270 Photos on a full chage using the EVF vs ~360 photos using the 3″ LCD screen. That is very significant and pretty poor battery life overall. This is really the only major negative I have to report about the Sony Nex-6, but it is common on the newer battery hungry cameras these days. I highly recommend having a few spare batteries!! The Sony NP-FW50 is the model that all the Nex photography cameras use
EVF Specs:
- Type : 1.3 cm (0.5 type) Electronic viewfinder. 2,359,296 dots. Approx. 23mm from the eyepiece, 21mm from the eyepiece frame at -1m-1(diopter). Display: Basic info, levels, histogram. Brightness control: Auto, Manual (3 steps between -1 and 1)
- Diopter Adjustment : -4m-1 to +1.0m-1 (diopter)
- Field of View : 100% coverage
Ports and Wi-fi
The USB port changed to a Micro size to make room for the built in Wi-Fi module located right behind it, and towards the front of the Nex-6. The HDMI Port is a (typeC mini). The Wi-Fi works, and works well!! More on that later in the review. There is also a little tiny LED just above the Micro USB port to indicate the the camera is charging. It will go out when the charge is complete. If the led is flashing the charging stopped most likely do to over heating.
Sony Nex-6 – HDMI and Micro USB Port, Wi-fi
The Sony 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 Power Zoom Lens (SELP1650)
The Sony SELP1650 Lens works pretty good overall, but is odd to me zooming in and out with a toggle button on the side of the lens. I found it easier to use the lens ring itself for precision zooming. It was much faster and seemed easier to fine tune. Very similar to the Sony DSC-Rx100 lens in that respect.
- Lens Type : E-mount 16-50mm F3.5-5.6
- Lens Mount Type : Sony E-mount lenses
- Aperture (Max.) : f/3.5-5.6
- Aperture (Min.) : f/22-36
- Digital Zoom : Approx. 4x (still images and movie) Smart Zoom (M: approx. 1.4x, S:approx. 2x)
- Smart Zoom® Technology : M: approx. 1.4x, S:approx. 2x
- Focal Length (35mm equivalent) : 24mm-75mm (35mm equivalent)
- Filter Diameter : 40.5mm
- Lens Groups-Elements : 8 groups, 9 elements (4 aspheric surfaces)
- Minimum Focus Distance : 9.8″ (0.25m)
- Angle of View : 83o – 32o
- Aperture Blade : 7 blades (Circular aperture)
- Aspheric Elements : (4 aspheric surfaces)
- Dimensions (Max. Diameter x Length) : 2-5/8″ x 1-13/16 (64.7 x 29.9mm)
- Distance Encoder : Yes
- Exterior Finish : Black
- Internal Motor : Yes (Stepping motor)
- Lens Weight : 4.1 oz (116g)
- Maximum Magnification : 0.215x
- Steady Shot Mode:Active : Lens-based Image Stabilization (OSS)
Here is what the Sony E-Mount 16mm power zoom lens looks like OFF in it’s most compact position.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – OFF
And here she is turned ON. The zoom movement really doesn’t change the length of the lens much at all as most of the movement is internal to the lens.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens
Sony Nex-6 Sample Photos Using Jpeg Fine
The Sony Nex-6 takes a great picture due to the huge 16.1MP Exmor APS-C Size CMOS Sensor located in the belly of the beast. The optics in front of the huge sensor make all the difference in the quality of output. You can potentially put any lens on the Sony Nex camera system, so clearly a $1000 dollar lens is going to yeild better results than the ~$350 dollar SELP1650 kit lens. This is important specifically as it relates to sharpness, contrast, color, and even dynamic range to a smaller degree.
I have tons of sample photos using some high quality Canon L Glass which really shows you what the sensor is capable of. When you see those in comparison to the 16-50mm power zoom lens photos, it’s almost laughable at the difference in quality. It really is night and day and you need to keep this in mind when judging a cameras sharpness and actual resolution ect..
That being said, the 16-50mm lens is 1/3rd the price and has a powered zoom which is pretty awesome for video. It also pumps out a pretty good photo overall, but has some flaws we will discuss in more detail below with sample images to reference. The lens flaws are much more noticeable when shooting Raw, because the lens correction profile information is only applied to the jpeg files. It’s important to note that when looking at the raw files on the Nex-6, you are actually seeing the Jpeg preview with the lens profile corrections applied. You will not see that once the photos are on your computer though as the raw files don’t have the profile applied to it. It’s “RAW”!!
Sony Nex-6 Sample Photos Using Jpeg Fine Quality and 100% Crops!!
One of the first photos I took for this Sony Nex-6 Review was my buddy Chubs who happened to be laying by the door like the lazy dog he is 
He really is the best!! This photo of chubs was taken at ISO 1000 and the detail is retention is excellent!!
Click the Photos for the 1200px Version!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Jpeg Fine, f/5.6 @ 46mm, 1/80sec, ISO 1000
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – 100% Crop
For this next scene I was testing the Dynamic Range of the Nex-6 while shooting in Jpeg Fine mode. It did a really good job in both the shadows and highlights. Better than I expected for jpeg quality.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens @ f/4.5, 1/100sec, 21mm, ISO 100
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – 100% Crop Top Left |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – 100% Crop Middle |
Next we have a really bright creepy abandoned house in the early morning with a brilliant blue sky for a nice contrast and background color.
Be Sure to Click on these sample photos for the full size!!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16-50mm Zoom Lens – Sample Photo @ f/8 1/320sec, ISO 100, 16mm
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16-50mm Zoom Lens – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16-50mm Zoom Lens – 100% Crop |
I found a pretty nice old gas pump on an old farm property and will definitely be back to compare lenses with this subject!!
Zoomed in to 28mm for this 1st photo.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens @ f/4.5, 1/320sec, 28mm, ISO 100
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – @ f/4.5, 1/320sec, 28mm, ISO 100 – 100% Crop
Zoomed in to 50mm for this 2nd photo.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens @ f/5.6, 1/320sec, 50mm, ISO 100
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens @ f/5.6, 1/320sec, 50mm, ISO 100 – 100% Crop
This next scene was very colorful and highly detailed!!
Be Sure to Click on these sample photos for the full size!!
Sony Nex-6 Sample Photo – Jpeg Fine @ f/5.6 1/60sec, 23mm, ISO 125
Sony Nex-6 Sample Photo – Jpeg Fine @ f/5.6 1/60sec, 23mm, ISO 125 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 Sample Photo – Jpeg Fine @ f/5.6 1/60sec, 23mm, ISO 125 – 100% Crop |
As you can see from these jpeg images, the colors are vibrant, highlight detail is pretty well protected and shadow detail is very good. The sharpening is a bit much as well as the noise reduction on Higher ISO images as you will see later. I much prefer shooting Raw and developing the files myself as the results are more to my liking than the straight off the camera jpeg images.
Be sure to Click the Next Page Buttons Below!!
Sony Nex-6 Raw Sample Photos Using 16-50mm Lens
Now for some Sony Nex-6 Raw files!! I used Adobe Lightroom 4 to develop the Nex-6 Raw files and they look fantastic strait off the camera. Keep in mind as mentioned earlier that Raw files are not developed strait off the camera like the Jpeg images are. You basically have to do the developing yourself to a degree, which gives amazing power and flexibility in return. What I did with these photos below is very basic and I will create a video tutorial when I finish this review to show you exactly how and what I did in Lightroom 4. Stay tuned for that.
For a quick crash course, or for those familiar with Lightroom 4, basically what I did was slightly adjust the contrast, added a little sharpening, a touch clarity, and vibrance, lens distortion correction if applicable, and lastly a slight crop on a few.
Be Sure to Click on these sample photos for the full 1200px Version!!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/60sec, ISO 250
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/60sec, ISO 250 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/60sec, ISO 250 – 100% Crop |
Here is another angle of the bridge with No Lightroom Corrections applied to the Raw file. Notice how at 16mm the lens flaws are very noticeable!! It’s really not that bad, but way more noticeable than when shooting in jpeg mode. The built in lens profiles on the Nex-6 do a pretty good job fixing these flaws, but when shooting raw the profiles are not applied to the files.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/125sec, ISO 125
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/125sec, ISO 125 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/125sec, ISO 125 – 100% Crop |
Histogram of Sony Nex-6 Raw File |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/60sec, ISO 125 – 100% Crop |
These next few images were taken by the Hudson River over in Newburgh, NY. It used to be a place of great industry, but due to the evolution of technology and whatever else, they are abandoned all over the place and have been for as long as I can remember. These photos were shot handheld leaning out the window of my car.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 28mm, 1/160sec, ISO 100
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 28mm, 1/160sec, ISO 100 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 28mm, 1/160sec, ISO 100 |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 50mm, 1/125sec, ISO 100
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 50mm, 1/125sec, ISO 100 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 50mm, 1/125sec, ISO 100 – 100% Crop |
This really tall smoke stack was pretty much directly behind me from where I took the picture of the old factory above. 16mm was wide enough to capture the entire stack although I had to move back about 20-30 feet.
Be Sure to Click on these sample photos for the Full Size!!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/125sec, ISO 100
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/125sec, ISO 100 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/8, 16mm, 1/125sec, ISO 100 |
I always try and grab a decent flag photo during my Sony camera reviews, and this shot presented itself when I was over in Newburgh, NY the other day.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/5.6, 50mm, 1/2500sec, ISO 100
Histogram for Flag Raw Photo
This next scene has some dramatic lighting and I was loving it!! The Golden Hour as they call it, and I was in a spot I’ve been wanting to photograph for some time. I was also shooting directly into the sun, so the lens and sensor really got a work out for this frame.
sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/6.3, 50mm, 1/400sec, ISO 100
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/6.3, 50mm, 1/400sec, ISO 100 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/6.3, 50mm, 1/400sec, ISO 100 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/5.6, 50mm, 1/250sec, ISO 100
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/5.6, 50mm, 1/80sec, ISO 100
Lastly for the Sony Nex-6 with the 16-50mm Power zoom lens Raw Sample Photos we have an old school farm truck hanging out in the afternoon sun soaking it all in!!
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/6.3, 32mm, 1/60sec, ISO 125
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/6.3, 32mm, 1/60sec, ISO 125 – 100% Crop |
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/6.3, 32mm, 1/60sec, ISO 125 – 100% Crop |
sony Nex-6 w/ 16mm Power zoom Lens – Raw @ f/6.3, 50mm, 1/400sec, ISO 100
Overall the Nex-6 Raw Sample Photos, in combination with the 16-50mm Power Zoom lens are pretty good in my opinion. At 16mm the SELP1650 lens has noticeable distortion, harsh lens vignetting, and is a bit soft in the corners. The optics are definitely the weak link in this combination!!
The Nex-6 is capable of producing much higher quality images using alternative lenses and lens adapters as you will see shortly
On a side note, I personally prefer the 18-55mm kit lens (sel1855) over the 16-50mm power zoom lens. The 18-55mm lens is sharper, has much better distortion and vignette control, and on top of that I really don’t care for the power zoom feature. It’s great for video, but for photography it just makes the camera feel like a point and shoot or something. Plus it can be harder to get the zoom to stop at a specific focal length at times. I’ve grown accustom to using the zoom manually over the years, and I much prefer this for photography purposes. Just my opinion mind you as I’m sure a lot of you would like to try this lens specifically for the power zoom feature!!
Nex-6 – ISO Performance Testing
For this Test I used my GregMcbeth ColorChecker chart. It worked really well for illustrating and noise and color shifts at Higher ISO values. I decided to compare the jpegs and raw images so you can see the difference side by side. I had the Sony Nex-6 set to Jpeg fine with Noise Reduction Turned ON by default.
I used a tri-pod, self timer, and custom WB, so the colors should be fairly accurate and edges sharp. I also exported as jpeg’s with No Post Processing at all other than re-size for the web and 100% center crops. Make sure you click on the photos to see the 100% Version as they are around 1200px and highly detailed.
I also included the un-cropped versions of the High ISO 12800 and 25600 Nex-6 sample photos. This way you can see all the colors and the picture as a whole if your curious.
Click on the Photos for the 100% 1200PX version!!!
| Sony Nex-6 ISO Test Photos – Raw | Sony Nex-6 ISO Test Photos – Jpeg |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 100, RAW |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 100 |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 200, RAW |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 200 |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 400, RAW |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 400 |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 800, RAW |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 800 |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 1600, RAW |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 1600 |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 3200, RAW |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 3200 |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 6400, RAW |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 6400 |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 12800, Raw |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 12800 |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Raw – ISO 12800 |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 12800 |
Sony Nex-6, ISO 25600, Raw |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 25600 |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Raw – ISO 25600 |
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Testing, Jpeg – ISO 25600 |
The Sony Nex-6 performs incredible well in this ISO performance test. The Nex-6 has the best High ISO performance I have ever tested to date. The Nex-5n was pretty close, but the Nex-6 is better I feel. ISO 6400 and even ISO 12800 are usable! At ISO 25600 the color starts to shift and the noise is very noticeable. I would still use it for BW though if need be as the noise often works for that type of photography depending on the scene and mood.
Real World High ISO Sample Photo
I use Auto ISO most of the time when shooting jpeg mode, and the camera never went above ISO 3200 the entire time. Check out this snapshot of Santa at ISO 3200, handheld @ 1/8sec in extremely low light!! I was overall impressed with the Nex-6 noise control at ISO 3200, but more impressive was the OSS of the 16-50mm Power Zoom maintaining a sharp image at 1/8th of a second!!
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Sample Photo – ISO 3200, Noise Reduction Off
Sony Nex-6 High ISO Sample Photo – ISO 3200, Noise Reduction Off – 100% Crop
Nex-6 Auto HDR Sample Photos
The Auto HDR Feature on the Sony Nex-6 is another very powerful feature that actually works!! Here is a few sample photos of a farm with a very dramatic sky and lots of dynamic range!!
Tip: Set your ISO to a fixed value as low as possible!! Auto ISO does not yeild the best results.
Sony Nex-6 Auto HDR Sample Photo – 6EV
Sony Nex-6 – Standard Exposure
Sony Nex-6 Auto HDR Sample Photo – 6EV
Sony Nex-6 – Standard Exposure
Sony Nex-6 Auto HDR Sample Photo – 4EV
Check out what happens when a car drives through the scene while taking the multi-frame Auto HDR This feature is best suited for still subjects.
Sony Nex-6 Auto HDR Sample Photo – 4EV
As you can see by these Sony Nex-6 Auto HDR sample photos, the feature works well, and blows away what a standard exposure produces in the right conditions.
More Sony Nex-6 Auto HDR Sample Photos Here >>
Auto Pano – Sample Photos
Auto Pano Mode on the Sony Nex-6 is a powerful feature that I find myself using more and more as I review the Sony Cameras. It’s incredible fast, does a good job most of the time, and it adds a really nice touch to a series of photos that I normally would not take the time to do manually. If I was going to use the Panoramic for a Print, then I would take the time necessary to get a perfect series of frames and use Photomerge in Photoshop CS6 to stitch the photo together for me. This will yeild a sharper Panoramic in most cases.
To use the Auto Pano Feature on the Nex-6 you simple change the mode dial to the Pano symbol. Once there the camera by default will have you set up for a standard wide pano shooting from left to right. You can change the direction to Up, Down, Left, Right, and you can also change the direction of the camera when your taking the actual pano. This way you can get more printer friendly panorama’s if you want.
Auto Pano Mode requires Jpeg and cannot be used with Raw!!
Check these Panoramas out and be sure to click on them for the larger viewing size. I also included a 100% crop of each Panoramic so you can see the actual detail captured.
Be Sure to Click on these Panoramas for the 1200px Versions!!
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – Standard
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – 100% Crop
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – Wide
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – 100% Crop
This next Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Mode Photo was a test shot taken on my deck. I wanted to show you how good the stitching works on ridiculously hard scenes like this!!
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – Wide
You can see on the 100% crop below that the Auto Pano Feature is not perfect as the railing by the corner has a glitch. There are a few other minor glitches in this scene, but photoshop would have a really hard time as well.
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – 100% Crop
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – Standard
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – 100% Crop
The next Pano was taken by changing the direction to the UP position. I then rotated the camera 90 degrees clockwise, like I was going to take a portrait, and fired away across the scene taking a more printer friendly panoramic photo
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – Standard Up Direction Camera in Vertical Position
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – Wide
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – 100% Crop
This scene was shooting into the sun with a really bright sky. The Sony Nex-6 did a good job compromising as I see detail in the foreground and sky pretty well consider the dynamic range.
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo – Wide
Sony Nex-6 Auto Pano Sample Photo- 100% Crop
Sony Nex-6 and Canon L Lens Sample Photos!!
For these photos below I used the Sony Nex-6, Fotodisox lens Adapter, Canon EF 135mm f/2 L lens, and the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS Lens. Both of these lenses are high quality pro grade optics, so the images will be noticeable different looking.
If your interested in learning how to set-up the Sony Nex-6 for using lens adapters and manual focus, check out this detailed Article with video tutorials explaining it all!! Sony Nex-6 – Manual Focus and Focus Peaking with Fotodiox Lens Adapter and Canon EF Lenses >>
Here is what the Nex-6 looks like with the Canon EF 135mm f/2 L lens mounted to it:
Sony Nex-6, Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 135mm f/2 L Lens
Sony Nex-6 and Canon L Lens Sample Photos
Check out what the Sony Nex-6 can do with pro grade optics in front of the sensor!!
Be Sure to Click on these Photos for the 1200px Versions!!
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4 – 100% Crop
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4 – 100% Crop
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4 – 100% Crop
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L Lens @ f/4
Here are a few images taken with the Canon EF 135mm f/2 L lens mounted to the Nex-6 using the fotodiox lens adapter. I accidentally had the camera set to jpeg mode on this next set just to let you know.
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 135mm f/2 L Lens @ f/2
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 135mm f/2 L Lens @ f/2
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 135mm f/2 L Lens @ f/2
Sony Nex-6 w/ Fotodiox Lens Adapter, Canon EF 135mm f/2 L Lens @ f/2
As you can see from this series of photos, the Sony Nex-6 is capable of taking incredible photos with killer lenses mounted to it. It’s versatility like this that makes the Sony Nex Camera System so attractive to photographers like myself.
I’m really looking forward to getting some old school Minolta MC type lenses for my Nex-6 as well!!
More Sample Photos using the Canon 135mm f/2 L Lens with the Sony Nex-6 here >>
Apps and Wifi on the Sony Nex-6
The Apps and Wi-Fi features used in this Sony Nex-6 Review are something I had mixed feelings about when first getting the camera. I did not have any interest in instant uploading for example, but did have interest in remote shooting capabilities, and sharing the photos with family and friends. I also was interested in the fact that the camera can be potential upgraded with more powerful features over time for a small price.
I opened the PlayMemories Camera Apps Program and was able to download the Free Picture Effect+ and Smart Remote Control Apps. I first connected the Sony Nex-6 to my wifi network which was pretty simple, just like a PC or smart phone, the Nex-6 found my network and I entered my password. I will have a more detailed article on this later, but it’s really strait forward.
Here is the link to the Sony Play Memories Portal >>
Picture Effect+
Partial Color+ lets you select up to two colors before turning the image in to a black and white photo. Any object with the selected colors remain as colored highlights, creating eye-catching accents.
Soft High-Key+ lends a light, airy look to photos by changing the ambiance of the lighting. Choose from blue, pink or green as the soft high-key color.
Miniature+ expands on the conventional Miniature function, letting you combine it with either Toy Camera or Retro Photo for truly unique photos.
Toy Camera+ lets you control the brightness of the vignette in a Toy Camera photo.
Watercolor transforms any image into a lovely photo resembling a delicate watercolor.
Illustration creates bright punchy images with subjects starkly outlined much like you would find in comic books or cartoons.
Using Illustration Mode set to High, I took a few sample photos on Thanksgiving and around the house.
Sony Nex-6 – Illustration Mode
Sony Nex-6 – Illustration Mode
Sony Nex-6 – Illustration Mode
Sony Nex-6 – Illustration Mode
I also used the Partial Color + feature with a few different colors to show you how it works.
Sony Nex-6 – Partial Color +
Smart Remote Control App
Using the Smart Remote Control App I was able to take a picture of myself with the camera on the deck railing and me in the house looking at my iPhone looking at what the camera sees on my screen!! Pretty awesome, but I was having a few connection issues for whatever reason. I need to do more testing and remote shooting and will dedicate an article to the topic.
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16-50mm Zoom Lens – Smart Remote Control App
Sony Nex-6 w/ 16-50mm Zoom Lens – Smart Remote Control App
Nex-6 Hybrid AF Performance
The New Hybrid AF on the Nex-6 is Awesome!! It is more accurate and significantly faster at focusing in all situations I’ve tried so far.
The Sony Nex-6 16mp Sensor has 99 PDAF points (phase-detection AF), 25 CDAF points (contrast-detection AF) which work together as a Hybrid System. The PDAF points are used for speed and telling lens where to start focusing from. Then the CDAF points take over to lock down the focus.
The bottom line is this; the New Hybrid AF System blows the doors off the standard CDAF found on the Nex-5n for example. The focus is faster all conditions used so far, and I did some extensive testing about two weeks ago by trying to photograph my Brothers dog Sandy running around his back yard. She is really fast and I managed to get several pretty sharp shots. Check out the Hybrid AF Speed Test Over Here >> if your interested, as this Nex-6 Review is getting really long!!
Nex-6 HD Video Sample and AF Testing
Here is a video that shows of the New Hybrid AF on the Sony Nex-6 using the 16-50mm power zoom lens pretty thoroughly!
Nex-6 Video Specs:
- Video Format : AVCHD Ver. 2.0 (Progressive), AVCHD, MP4
- Video Mode : AVCHD: PS – 1920 x 1080/60p@28Mbps FX – 1920 x 1080/60i@24Mbps FH – 1920 x 1080/60i@17Mbps FX – 1920 x 1080/24p@24Mbps FH – 1920 x 1080/24p@17Mbps MP4: HD – 1440 x 1080/ 30fps@12Mbps VGA – 640 x 480/ 30fps@3Mbps
- Audio Format : Dolby Digital (AC-3) / MPEG-4 AAC-LC, 2ch
- Microphone/Speaker : Built-in stereo microphones / Built-in, monaural speaker (volume settings in 8 steps between 0 and 7)
I recorded a decent amount of video with the Nex-6 and what I notice most is the improved AF performance. The 16-50mm power zoom lens really shinned here as zooming in and out was very smooth and relatively quiet, but not silent. The focus transitions from one object to another are also smooth with a soft ease in/ ease out effect. It’s honestly hard to tell because the focus sort works that way also, but worth mentioning. I will be doing more extensive video testing in the upcoming weeks, so stay tuned for that!!
Nex-6 Overheating Test
I performed a decent Overheating Test on the Nex-6 by recording HD Video at 1060/60p with a fully charged battery!! The Nex-6 only allows for 29 minute clips, so I had to re-start the recording as soon as it completed. It took two formats of my 8GB SanDisk Memory card which gave it ~one minute to cool down. I recorded a total of 96 minutes on one charge at 1080/60p. I also had the screen closed the entire time except for checking the back of the camera for temperature occasional. The Nex-6 got progressively hotter as time went on. I can’t say whether it would keep recording for another complete battery cycle without over heating or not as I only have one battery still. Once I get another Battery I will do a full two battery cycles and update this review.
Sony Nex-6 Battery Life
The battery life on the Sony Nex-6 is not that good compared to a traditional DSLR style camera. You can expect to get about 3-400 shots on a fully charged Sony NP-FW50, if you Only use the LCD screen. However, if your using the EVF expect to get ~2-300 photos on a full charge. That is a full 100 photos less on a single charge. I really wish Sony would just bit the bullet and either design a larger battery or design the compartment to fit the Sony NP-FM500 battery used in the SLT-A57 for example. Same issue with all the Nex cameras though, so nothing new here except the EVF sucking down extra juice.
Conclusion
The Sony Nex-6 delivers big time in my opinion, and I’m very happy I purchased it!! I figured I could just sell it after the review if I didn’t want it, but no way I’m selling the camera body anytime soon. The 16-50mm power zoom lens I could live without personally. Overall it’s very good lens for the money, but with other options available it wouldn’t be my first choice.
The Nex-6 really does fall in between the Nex-5n and the Nex-7 in a few ways. For instance, the EVF, better build quality, and Hybrid AF make it a nice upgrade from the Nex-5n. The Nex-7 offers a Higher Res 24mp sensor and brick like metal skin. The screen on the back is also tighter and more sturdy feeling. The Nex-7 also has the Tri-navi controls, and a pro oriented menu system which is much nicer then the picture based menus the Nex-6 has. So, the Nex-6, in my opinion, still falls right between even though it has better AF performance than the Nex-7.
Would I recommend this camera?? Hell Yes!! Highly recommend in fact. My only real beef with the camera is the battery life, but I’ll get a few extra batteries ASAP!! Not a big deal really.
If your interested in purchasing the Sony Nex-6, please consider using the links below to my affiliate venders. I will get a small commission for the referral at no cost to you, and that will help me get more equipment on a regular bases!!
Thank you for reading my Sony Nex-6 Review and please feel free to ask questions and/or comment below Also, be sure to check out the Forum >> for more info and lots of question and answer type conversations!!
Jay
Nex-6 (body only) ~$898 US @ BHPhotoVideo >> | Amazon >> | Adorama >> | Ebay Auctions >>
Nex-6 w/16-50mm lens – NEX6L/B ~$998 US @ BHPhotoVideo >> | Amazon >> | Adorama >> | Ebay Auctions >>
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Thanks,
Jay
About the Author
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I was just waiting for this review of yours to be published for confirmation whether this is a good enough camera or not and after reading your fab review I’ve decided to go for the plunge and get one for myself! Thank you for ending my csc hunt.
Ps. It’s straight and not strait :p
Jay
Than Jay for the comments and kind words, and I’ll fix that typo now!!
Best,
Jay
Excellent review! I bought my Nex 6 about 2 weeks ago after landing on your site. The quality and depth of your reviews (pre-review at that time) really helped out as I was looking into several different cameras. I am extremely happy with this camera! Your reviews on Sony 18-200 and the 55-210 were extremely helpful as well! Last week I ended purchasing the 55-210 and am very impressed at the overall quality of this lense. Thanks again and I will be visiting your site on a routine basis. I am looking forward to Sony releasing the time-lapse app on Playmemories.
Cheers,
Robert
Hi Robert,
Thank you very much for the sentiments, I really appreciate it!!
Ahh, the 55-210mm lens I loved!! I really want to get that and the 50mm f/1.8 E-Mount lens, but now I’m looking at the old Minolta MC Lenses and the Olympus OM lenses. Ebay has some killer deals and all I need to do is decide on some lens adapters.
I’m also looking forward to more Apps! I’m going to get the Bracket Pro app for sure, but didn’t buy it yet. Time-lapse also sounds like a lot of fun. I have some plans for the remote shooting App as well.
Have a goodnight and thanks again for the comments,
Jay
Great review Jay ……
But sentiments … hopefully !!!!! … not sediments!!!
Best wishes from a frozen UK Tom
Tom,
Thanks buddy!! I’m thinking I might have a few more spelling and or grammatical errors looming
So you considering the Nex-6? It’s freezing here in US, NY as well today!!!
Thanks again for the comments and sentiments!!
Jay
Nice and interesting review. Thanks for your effort. HIghly appreciated.
I got the NEX 6 last week but had not much time to try it until now. Still waiting for a firmware update of the SEL50f18, my most loved lens at the moment. SEL35f18 will arrive in January, I hope. While heavy it is a pleasure to use some l-mount Voigtlaenders on e-mount… Waiting for better weather and more patience.
Cheers
Reiner
Hello Reiner,
Thank you very much for the kind comments
Glad to here and thanks for sharing!! The Voigtlaenders look like amazing quality and I would love to try them out some day. Please consider joining the Forum and sharing some of those awesome photos I know you must have!
Out of curiosity which lenses and adapters do you have if you don’t mind sharing??
Thanks,
Jay
Hello Jay,
I am not posting photographies in forums or databases like flicker but have some low resolution samples on a separate Facebook site. (Sorry no portraits in cause of copyright and personal data security reason.) http://www.facebook.com/strasser.reiner The most pictures are shot with a SEL50f18 and a VC Nokton35 on a NEX5. As a contrast the squared landscapes are iPhone shots. – What a combination.
I have two Voigtlaenders at the moment the Heliar75f1.8 and the Nokton 35f1.2 V2. Both are really fine but a bit heavy. I like especially the Nokton with its incredible smooth but thin DOF.
I use a HAWKS adapter, fine for close ups, because its adjustable distance function. For makros I use some old Canon achromats (cheap to get on ebay).
Have a nice day
Reiner
Reiner,
I totally understand
Thank you very much for the info on the gear as well! It’s nice to know the really cheap adapters work good, as they should. The adapter is basically a glorified washer, and it doesn’t need to be $100 or more in my opinion unless you using a Cinema grade lens then I think it’s worth the extra cash!! The Hawks Lens Adapter is something I overlooked, WOW it’s worth the money for sure.
The Voigtlaender Nokton 35 >> Looks gorgeous!!! The Heliar 75 >> also looks like a beast of a lens
Beer can??
Thanks again for sharing and the detailed information,
Jay
Excellent review. Thank you very much, enjoyed reading it. I purchased the Nex-6 a couple of weeks ago and I am happy with the purchase. Upgrading from the 5n, really like the Nex-6 EVF and SEL1650 makes the camera a little easier to travel with.
Thanks for the nice comments and I’m really glad you enjoyed it. Being able to use lens adapters really opens up a whole new world that I am really just starting to exploit
Thanks for the info and best of luck with you Nex-6 and 16-50mm zoom lens!! It’s a really solid all around combo for sure. If you ever want to step up the optical quality a bit, I suggest trying out one of the E-Mount Prime Lenses >>
Thanks again,
Jay
Hi Jay
After I read all your review bout nex-6 and I’ve bought nex-6 so.. i think i like this camera
thank for your info Jay
Henry
Hi Henry and thanks for the comments!!
I think you made a wise choice going with the Sony Nex-6
Good luck with it and if you ever have any questions, feel free to ask!
Thanks again for the comments,
Jay
Jay,
A very good review. I appreciate the effort you put into your work.
I am a NEX-7 user that enjoys everything you write.
My best,
James
Hey James,
Thanks for the nice comments and sharing your thoughts! Which lenses you have for that Nex-7 of yours?? Any recommendations??
Thanks,
Jay
Hi Jay,
Great work
My lens recommendations are Sony E 50mm, Sigma 30mm and Sigma 19mm.
Cheers!
Nuno,
Thanks for the comments and sharing your Lens recommendations!!!
Best,
Jay
Hi Jay,
Could you review this new NEX accessory http://fotodioxpro.com/index.php/fotodiox-pro-wonderburst-nex-radio-flash-trigger-for-sony-nex-cameras-1tx-1rx-works-with-nex-3c-nex-5c-nex-5n-cameras.html
Looks like a pretty useful one.
Thanks,
Raghav
Raghav,
Judging on the quality of my current Fotodiox Lens Adapter, I would say that looks like an awesome wireless flash solution!! It has everything you could need really built right in. Build quality may be an issue, but there really isn’t much to it??
It also totally looks worth reviewing, but I will need another Nex camera body to test it on. You have a few weeks to wait? If so I can probably do it
Here it is on Amazon as well >>
Thanks for the request and comments!
Jay
What got me curious was a photo blog mentioning the same can be doubled up as a wireless remote! It is not specified on Fotodiox site but if they managed to understand the Nex hot shoe protocols to enable wireless shutter release it would be a very useful one IMHO.
Yes, the NEX-6 camera is great and very similar to the NEX-7 in build, including the rather weak tripod mount bottom area. My PalmGrip is a good solution to that problem and allows full LCD downward tilt. NEX-6 version due any week now.
Thanks Jim for the comments, you have a link??
Just as a note: If you’re using a lens adapter to put F-Mount, M-Mount, M42, etc lenses on the NEX-6, and you’ve stopped down the lens, the EVF/rear screen can seem slightly laggy. It’s completely usable, but it is just something that surprised me slightly (I’d never used adapters in any sort of ‘live view’ before)
This is because of the shutter speed slowing down and reflecting that on the lcd screen no?? A slower shutter speed will make it “look” laggy on the screen if it’s less than 1/30sec.
Jay
Just want to say as a RAW shooter I also prefer the 18-55 for the reasons you mentioned.
Thanks Jaycee for your comments on the Raw Quality of the 16-50mm lens
I just got the 18-55mm and the 16mm pancake!!
Jay
Hey Jay great review!
Since you will be covering flash options with the NEX-6 can you also throw in some Menu explanations of the NEX-6 “Flash Modes” and “Flash Settings”.
One thing i’ve noticed from using my NEX-6 is that when taking pics with the flash engaged they all seem to have a Warm look to them. Not sure if the flash temperature has to due with this. Also i noticed in the flash modes there are several different kinds (Fill Flasy, Flash Sync etc.)
Any help would be great.
Hey Probound,
Sure thing bud. I’ll do a full breakdown of all the flash options in the menu, and then show the real world results with each setting
I’m really looking forward to doing all these tests!! Hopefully this weekend.
Best,
Jay
Probound,
Just to let you know, I tried the flash about 10 minutes ago and it worked really good on fill flash mode using aperture priority mode. I played with the flash exposure compensation a little to alter the power when I was really close to Layla and it worked like a charm. I also tried a back-lit subject, and that also worked better than I expected!! Stay tuned for a detailed article, but I just wanted to give you a little update
Jay
Hi jay,
I think your reviews are great, you’re giving us some real world situations, thats useful. I know that you said that you will be doing off camera flash, I’m just letting you know that I will be looking forward to it.
I am a commercial photographer in Australia, I have the usual equipment canon 5D2 and 7D, L lenses, 600 speedlites, studio stuff, etc. Rather than buying the 5D3 I was thinking of buying the NEX 6 and slowly integrating it into my kit. I bought the Sony RX100 for my wife, although she complains that she never gets to use it, I love it.
I think the Nex 6 would be good for the odd event that I do, and the pro bono work I do. I wanted to see how the Nex 6 works with speedlites, and studio lights and real world on the job situations. I’m thinking of getting it as a weekend and travel camera, I think it would be great for that.
Anyway, thanks mate and keep up the good work.
Mark
Hi Mark,
Thanks for the comments!!
I think the Nex-6 would be great for what your describing. I have the 5d mark II also for the Pro Grade Quality if need, but it’s nice you have the 7d as well!! Sports shooter?? The Off camera flash abilities should be awesome in manual mode, but I have yet to really test it. It’s freezing out side and the “Lab” is in the Spackle stage!!
I’ll take some pics pretty soon with my Off Camera Flash Units upstairs. I want to do some On Camera Flash testing as well, so I’ll just do it all at once this week one day. Stay tuned!! All that L Glass will work on the Nex with a simple adapter as well.
Jay
Hi Jay,
I own a NEX 6 as well and loving it. But the manual didn’t explain some features in the AF.
If I use flexi spot. then AF on that spot. Under good light the flexi spot box will light up green. But under dim light after selecting a spot then half press shutter button. A larger green box appear on the picture frame. do you know why the camera produces a larger green box AF during dim light situation ?
Hi Marvin,
That is a great question and I wondered the same thing when I first saw this on the Nex-C3 I believe it was. Basically what is happening here, is the camera can’t lock the focus using whatever spot or area you have active. In your case, flexi-spot. The CDAF sensor associated with that particular area can’t focus, so it’s making an educated guess on the whole scene and locking instead of just failing and/or continuously hunting. Trouble is, often times the focus is missed.
What I recommend doing in these situations is switching to manual mode, and use the magnify zoom button to fine tune your focus, then take the photo. Not always, and option, but this will insure a in focus shot every time.
You can also try using other flexi-spots near by that have more contrast!! The camera needs a dark and light contrasting edge of some sort in order to focus. if the focus area does not have that, the focus will often fail in low light, and/or that green rectangle will come up as the best guess. CDAF = Contrast Detection Auto Focus; No contrast = No focus.
I’m not exactly sure what the manual says about this, but this is what the camera is actually doing from the numerous tests I’ve done.
I hope this helps clear things up Marvin
Jay
Hi Jay
Thanks for a great review. I will be buying one soon, my plans are nex6, 16-50mm, 35/1.8 and sigma 19/2.8.
I have a canon 5D with a speedlite flash 430 EX. will this flash work on the nex6? You mention in the video that the flash mount will allow this. Before I try it out, can you confirm that it will work??
I have tried a nex7 with an EF lens to NEX adapter that allows electronic control of aperture. This means I can adjust the aperture in the camera and it works great. Autofocus sort of works too, but the time to focus is very very slow, and the response varies from lens to lens. Better to use manual focus with focus peaking. So far my favourite combination is with my 100L 2.8 macro lens. I get aperture control on camera and with focus peaking, it is easier to nail focus on macro shots than on the canon 5D. While the adapter is expensive, I have full control of aperture in camera. This makes the camera much more versatile.
Cheers
Ken
Hi Ken,
Thanks for the comments, and nice choices!! I’m looking at 30-35mm lenses now on Ebay myself, but prolly old school full manuals. The only other lens I would consider is the 55-210mm so You have a telephoto OSS lens as well. That will really give a killer arsenal of lenses for your Nex-6!!
Yes I will confirm if my Canon 580ex speedlight flash unit works on the Nex-6. I’m sure if that one works your 430ex will be the same. I don’t think the ttl will work, but it may still auto flash expose in certain modes. I really need top play with it, but it’s so much easier to use the large studio flash units I have instead!!
Fantastic info!! I often wonder about the Actual AF performance on those electronic adapters. The video samples of the af performance I’ve seen does not impress me much, but I have no clue what the latest versions are like in fairness. It makes sense that it’s a bit slow, as it has to use the CDAF that is on the sensor, and the lens design is not optimized for that. The ability to change the aperture in camera is really nice though!!
Thanks again for sharing and the question on the speedlite! I’ll get back to ya on that asap
Jay
Ken,
My 580ex flash unit works awesome in manual mode on the Nex-6!!
Working on the Nex-6 and flash photography article now
Jay
Hi Jay
Thanks for getting back with this info. I am looking forward to the article on flash photography.
Ken
Hi Ken,
Here is the Article on Flash Photography with the Sony Nex-6: http://sonyalphalab.com/2013/01/sony-nex-6-and-flash-photography-on-and-off-camera/
Later,
Jay
Hi Jay. Saw your video today at SAR. You mentioned you don’t like the power zoom on the 16-50mm pancake zoom lens. I have the complete opposite opinion. The power zoom is useful in particular when you one is shooting video with the NEX6. And, that’s the whole, or at least, main, purpose of it’s existence. It enables you to have smooth zoom in’s or zoom out’s when shooting video. If it were not for that feature, the only alternative would be to zoom manually with the ring. It’s not going to be as smooth, and further, you will introduce video footable instability as the video jumps around as you physically rotate the dial. The alternative would be just to forego using zoom at all when you shoot video. Then the issue becomes moot. It’s the main reason for power zoom to exist, and, on the Panasonic GH2, GH3, etc as well.
Hey Jerry,
Thanks for the comments and sharing your thoughts/ experience with the 16-50mm Power Zoom lens!! You are correct that I do not care for the lens, but the reasons why are a little bit off I think
I don’t like the lens for Photography purposes is all, for Video it’s awesome for all the reasons you said, and as I said in the video. My main priority with the the Nex-6 is photography. If it was video, I would 100% want the 16-50mm power zoom lens.
I like manual zooming much better for photography purposes and I like the 18-55mm lens raw output performance much better. Same with the 16mm pancake. Again, just my opinion coming from a photography perspective, experience, and intent on using the camera.
I don’t think the 16-50mm lens is garbage or anything. It’s a great lens for the money and deserves a decent review rating of 3.5 or so I would say right now. It’s just not the best choice for my personal photography wants at this current time
I hope this help clear things up as I have had a few similar comments around the web,
Jay
Good review, Jay. And, as you mentioned the 16mm pancake lens in an answer to a comment, it is to remind that, at the moment, there are actions to get rid of the lose lenses they removed from the kits, on E-Bay. They sell between 117 and 130$ on many places, new, no box, with front and rear cap.
I just ordered one a few days ago. So,HNY, means, So,Happy New Year, hahaha.
Thanks Lou
Great call and your a smart man!!
Happy New Year,
Jay
I am surprised that you did not discuss the very bad distortion produced by the E-mount 16-50mm lens. Between 16 and 24mm it is unacceptable. Must be you shoot JPEG, in which case the distortion is automatically corrected in the NEX 6 camera. If you shoot raw you will be apalled at how bad it is. I mentioned it to Sony and they just shrugged it off. Fortunatey others have also noticed the problem and there is a very good lens profile created by a private individual who has made it available free of charge on the internet. The profile can be downloaded with the Adobe Lens Profile Downloader. If you use Lightroom 4, whcih I do, when the profile is downloaded it goes right into The Sony lens profiles that can be selected in the Develop Module of LR4 to correct the distortion in raw files made with the E-mount 16-50mm lens. I suspect some of your readers may find this helpful. Thanks.
John,
Thanks for the comments and feedback on the review and/or lens in particular. I planned on doing a full review of the lens separately, so I didn’t go into great detail, although I did point out several flaws with the lens in the raw sample photos on page 3 in particular. I also talk about the lens flaws again at the bottom of page 3!! Did you not see the page buttons perhaps as you said “if you shoot raw”?
I also have an article showing you How to develop Nex-6 Raw files as I am a Raw shooter. I cover the profile in Lightroom you mention for the 16-50mm lens as well. Check it out over Here: Developing Sony Nex-6 Raw Files in Lightroom 4 >>
I also just finished another tutorial on Developing Nex-6 files in Apple Aperture if anybody wants to check it out >>
Thanks again for sharing the info John,
Jay
How about the menu system Jay?
Hi Bill,
I need to do the full video tutorial for it still, but was waiting for the Nex-5r to get here. killing two birds with one stone so to speak
Not sure what the hold up is? Don’t worry, it’s coming sooner than later!!
Best,
Jay
Hi Jay,
Nice review. Thanks. Just wondering what your thoughts are for the best mirrorless camera out there for my purposes. I’m specifically interested in shooting my little kids running around in low light situations with no flash. Basically I need a camera that can focus wicked fast, and that has great low light performance. Note when I say “low light” I mean typical room light, not night scenes. But since I’m talking about little kids, I’ve got to shoot hand-held.
Do you think the Nex cameras are best for this type of situation? Which one? If not what else should I consider?
Thanks,
Tom
Hi Tom,
Thanks for the comments and great questions!!
What you asking for a camera to do is really hard Tom. Even the best DSLR will struggle with getting photos like your describing. Focusing in dim light is not only hard, but fairly slow depending on what lens you are using and the focus speed of the camera itself. The Nex cameras like the Nex-6 and Nex-5r have the new Hybrid PDAF technology, but it still does not compare to the full deal mirror set-up like the DSLR’s have.
Moving on to the DSLR’s, they would have a better chance in this low light environment, but still moving kids, high ISO, fast lens, ect.. Really hard conditions to shoot in. Your hit rate will be low no matter what with moving kids. Just a fact as far as I’m concerned, but you add low light in and it’s much harder!!
I’m really hard pressed to recommend a mirrorless camera to you Tom. I’m thinking a DSLR would be a better route if you want a higher hit rate in these conditions. You could put the LA-EA2 adapter on a Nex camera and basically turn it into a DSLR, but it’s costly for that feature and if you need it all the time, miles well get an SLR.
I recommend checking out the Sony SLT-A57 I reviewed (Click Here) not that long ago. It’s a Semi-Pro DSLR with the Sony Translucent Mirror Technology. It effectively shoots 10fps and focuses while doing that!! It really works awesome I must say, and I have several examples of the 10fps working with kids running towards the camera ext.. Even with the a57, inside low-light is going to greatly reduce the hit rate. A fast lens with a SSM motor in it would be recommended for your best chance. The 24-70 Zeiss is a great choice, but you get what you pay for. It’s heavy and expensive. We can discuss lenses more, so don’t worry about that right now.
This is not to say that the Nex-6 can’t get a picture in this scenario, as I’ve done it many times. It’s just really hard and you need to have luck, timing, and nail the focus. Really hard with kids
I hope this helps Tom,
Jay
Very well-done and helpful review, Jay. As was your review of the SLT-A57 – which leaves me in a bit of a quandry!
Prior to about 11 years ago or so, I was accustomed to feeding my photo habit with a couple of Minolta cameras, the last being the X-700. As I got into digital photography, the SLR’s got relegated to the closet. But I’ve been mired in point-and-shoot ever since, and I feel like it’s time to get back into the world of interchangeable lenses, ideally with bodies that I can adapt my old MD-mount lenses to.
Thanks also to you, I was able to do a bit of a comparo on http://www.digicamdb.com, and in many ways they’re pretty similar. Since it seems that the A57 can be has for a little less then the NEX-6, I’m trying to determine of there’s any reason to pony up the extra scratch for the latter.
One thing that piqued my interest was the cool article you did on adapting the MD-mount lens to the NEX E-mount. Would the results be similar with adaptation going MD to A-mount? Which way would you lean?
Hi Doug,
Thanks for the comments and great questions. The bottom line with the Nex-6 is this: It’s much smaller and lighter than the A57 with the same image quality pretty much. The Nex-6 also has more versatility with the use of lens adapters as almost all lenses will work. Not the case for the A57. SO your paying for the size and versatility when you go for the Nex-6.
The SLT-A57 is a real deal DSLR with super fast focusing thanks to the translucent mirror. It’s also much larger designed for the A-mount lenses specifically.
As far as adapting MD lenses to the A57, you can do it, but it’s not that good a way to go. The adapter needs to correct for the flange distance and adds extra optics in there. This is why the Nex camera system is so awesome for older lenses over he alpha cameras
I hope that helps,
Jay
Indeed it did, Jay – Thanks!
What about the not-so-good performance of the electronic viewfinder (EVF) in very low light. After some testing I realized that NEX-6 suffers from the same usual issues of the EVF – lag and graininess, that start to appear when it gets really dark. What makes things worse is the fact that in almost complete dark the EVF is not truly usable if you want to frame and shoot stars or other faintly lit subjects, like a luminous watch. The optical viewfinder is by far much better in such situations and there is a lot to improve to Sony’s EVF until it could become a real competition to the OVF.
Alex,
Great points and I have honestly not tried any super dark star photography. In those cases as well as a super dark studio environment, the Optical viewfinder is by far superior. I really don’t ever shoot in those conditions with my Nex-6 though as of yet. I did try in the studio, but it wasn’t dark enough to make difference really.
Thanks for sharing your experience, and the feedback,
Jay
Does Nex 6 make video better, the same or worse then the Nex 7.
Best regards
Hi Bryv,
Thanks for the excellent question!! The Nex-6 is significantly better at video than the Nex-7 in my opinion. This is mostly do to the new Hybrid AF which makes the focus more accurate and faster
The Nex-7 was also known for over heating issues which Sony has appeared to fix with the Nex-6 and Nex-F3 models, as far as my limited testing shows. You do need to use one of the lenses that supports the PDAF hybrid like the 18-55mm kit lens for example.
Check out the video I recently recorded with the Nex-6 and 18-55mm kit lens over in the Nex-5r Rolling Review >>
Best,
Jay
Jay: I developed an issue with NEX 6 where suddenly, it will not shoot video in clear image mode with the 16-50mm. I can shoot stills in clear image, but if I hit the video button, it reverts back to the 50mm view. If I enable digital zoom, it will shoot video in digital zoom mode, but still not clear image.
I don’t remember this happening when I first used the camera, or maybe I had digital zoom enabled and never notices. Do you had any experience or wisdom on this question? My post on the Sony forums is generating nothing, no advice, no users with similar problem.
Thanks, BK
Hi Bob,
My Nex-6 never recoded video with clear image zoom as far as I recall. I think it did work on the slt-A57 though or the slt-a37. I remember recording video with it at some point a long time ago, but was never able to do it again when I tried.
I just checked the manual also, it’s only available in Photography mode from everything it says.
Later,
Jay
Jay, a really good NEX 6 review for those of us who are not “experts”. Easy to read and understandable, and complete. Assume that I were to buy the body only (and skip the kit zoom which you could “live without” and I do not want to add to the bulk with a lens adapter. What general purpose lenses would you suggest? Thanks,again, for the good work.
Hi Jay – You can take this down after you read it, but I’d like to suggest that you have a friend read through your reviews and correct spelling and grammar mistakes before publishing. There are quite a few… I think these detract from your reviews and are very simple to correct. Also I think you could use fewer exclamation points!! Not everything you say is that exciting!! I do enjoy your enthusiasm in your reviews.
No worries, I know my spelling and grammer is bad! Thanks for the kind words about the reviews
I’ll try and watch the !!!
Best,
Jay
I would like to put in a plug for the kit lens. I had a NEX-5R and found that sometimes the kit lens made me feel too conspicuous when taking pictures because it was so long. I was very happy with the NEX-6 kit lens because it is so small. When you’re carrying the camera or shooting, you don’t feel like you’re a tourist or being intrusive. I think it’s just right for using the camera at a party or friend’s house and you want to simply take some pictures. The delta is only about $100 with or without the lens.
I too found it a little awkward to use the power zoom. I don’t think the manual zoom works that well. But overall I really like it and recommend that if you’re going to spend the money, an extra $100 is worth it. I also bought the Sony SEL 18200LE 18-200mm zoom lens. This is a great lens for when you’re out shooting more seriously.
I have recently bought the Nex-6 and the SEL50F18 lens. Upgraded firmware on both camera and lens. The quality is awesome for such a small camera, it’s a real option for pro work where you need to be nimble, quick and not carry heavy gear around. Did some street fashion lately and it shines in that area, it’s super easy to handle in areas crowded with people. I have two gripes about it, namely (and this is a big one) the fact that the AF motor works constantly 100% if you press the focus button or not. The lens keeps running the focus motor like crazy the whole time the camera is on. This eats up a full battery in about 2 hours if you’re moving around, also the focus is slowed down by this as you often have to call the lens back from some obscure focus distance once you press the focus button, making the motor run full back to front before a lock is found. Please Sony can we turn this off and just have the camera focus when I push the button??? Single shot AF has no effect whatsoever on this, the focus motor keeps running, I just wonder how long the lens will last before that motor breaks.. The second gripe is about button customization. I wish I could assign which wheel handles aperture/shutter in manual. And assign a button for AF, then I can shoot manual and use the AF button for focus and leave me to do composition and exposure. Now exposure locks whenever you press the focus button so I can’t change anything once that is pressed and once I let go of the focus button the bloody focus motor starts running like mad again completely ruining the focus I just did. The results I get from this camera are awesome though, and it makes the purchase more than worth it… But please fix the focus issue Sony. It would do wonders for battery life and usability.
Hi Jonas,
Down in Florida at Disney this week, so sorry for the delayed reply
Thank you very much for your detailed comments and specific gripes about the Nex-6!! This is excellent information and I will be sure to highlight it in an upcoming article on “What Sony users want”.
I honestly did not know the focus motor was always on. How do you know that is the case exactly? I know the focus will change if you move the camera, but I did not think that meant that the motor was always running? Interesting info for sure.
I also agree that further customization of the buttons would be nice for the shutter and aperture positions ect.. Total customization would be killer.
Thanks again Jonas, and I’m pretty sure Sony is reading these comments so really great place to write them
Jay
Thank you Jay.
The focus seems to be stuck in a software loop where focus is continually performed simply by just having the camera on. In case of bad light, low contrast, walking or moving, the focus will continually be hunting while no button is pressed. This is the case also in good conditions, the motor is very precise so you may not notice the focus adjustments through the viewfinder, but you will see it in the resulting pictures. I can understand why they did this for movie captures where you would actually want the camera to keep checking focus as subjects are moving. But for stills it’s just annoying and eats batteries like a hungry monster.
I only use spot focus, so I don’t know how the other focus modes respond in this regard. Actually I’m not interested in anything else but spot, as I want to know on what and where I have sharpest focus in a picture, the depth I can always control with aperture adjustment..
That is really interesting Jonas and I wonder if the Samsung NX300, or Fuji X-E1 do that?? I can’t seem to find anything in the documentation that covers this, as the focus modes seem to address it. Very strange indeed. You can lock the focus by holding down the button half way and it actually stays locked. So recomposing will work if you hold the shutter button down half way.
Thanks again,
Jay
Jay, yes pressing and holding the focus button will lock the focus, but it also locks my exposure :-/ , Which is something I do not want, especially if I use program mode where the light situation changes by recomposing the picture… What I do now is use the flexible spot and fiddle that spot to where I want my focus to fit my composition, then I don’t have to move the camera… So I can work around it, but battery life still drains quickly as I move about while taking pictures, since the focus motor continually runs while the camera is on…
Otherwise the camera is great and I’m happy with it despite these few annoyances.
HI Jonas and thanks again for your reply. I have good news!
I just it on my Nex-6 and the exposure does not lock on my my camera when I lock the focus?? It freely adjusts when I move the camera around, but the focus stays locked. I can lock the exposure if I want with the AEL button, but I have that set to focus selection currently.
Can you give it another try please? Perhaps I have some custom settings or you do??
Thanks,
Jay
Jay, thank you very much for the info. It turned out to be a setting, namely “AEL with shutter”. I turned it off and now I can recompose after locking focus
Now, if Sony can only fix the AF software loop when shooting stills I’d be a very happy camper
Thanks for the info Jonas and your very welcome. I just got the Nex-3n and AEL W/ Shutter is on by default, so perhaps it is on the Nex-6 as well
Best,
Jay