Compared to...

As with the majority of our studio image quality comparisons we selected a series of competitors by category, specification, price and feature set.

Lenses used

For direct comparisons we always use sharp prime lenses stopped down (F8-F9 or F6.3 for the Four Thirds lens). Here we have used the Minolta 50 mm F1.4, Canon EF 50 mm F1.4 and Pentax FA 50mm F1.4.

Studio scene comparison (JPEG)

This is our standard studio scene comparison shot taken from exactly the same tripod position. Lighting: daylight simulation, >98% CRI. Crops are 100%. Ambient temperature was approximately 22°C (~72°F).

Sony DSLR-A350 vs. Canon EOS 450D

Sony is still a relatively new name in the DSLR market with many potential customers unaware of its Konica-Minolta heritage. This isn't a problem faced by Canon, which has seen its Rebel series (300D-450D), establish themselves as best sellers. So how does the Sony compare to the 450D which will sell a great many units on the strength of its name and family reputation alone?

Camera settings:

• Sony DSLR-A350: Minolta 50 mm F1.4 lens, Aperture Priority, ISO 100
  JPEG Large/Fine, Manual WB, Default Parameters (Standard), Self-Timer
  
  
• Canon EOS 450D: Canon 50 mm F1.4 lens, Aperture Priority, ISO 100
  JPEG Large/Fine, Manual WB, Default Parameters (Standard), Self-Timer
  

Sony DSLR-A350	Canon EOS 450D
4.0 MB JPEG (4592 x 3056)	3.7 MB JPEG (4272 x 2848)

As can be seen, at base ISO, the A350 is very competitive against the latest Rebel. They produce very similar levels of detail with the A350 image appearing less sharpened. The A350 also appears to handle the roll-off to clipped highlights slightly better. It's an impressive performance.