Sony Alpha ILCE-6600 + Sigma 18-50mm f2.8

Sony Alpha ILCE 6600

The Sony Alpha 6600 mirrorless system camera expands the APS-C lineup and scores with cutting-edge technologies. With leading autofocus performance, outstanding image quality and the latest video technologies, photographers get a compact and lightweight camera with this model. The Sony "One Mount" solution for both APS-C and full-frame cameras provides great versatility to meet all photo and video shooting needs.

The Alpha 6600 is designed to be a versatile camera for the needs of demanding photographers and videographers. It is ideally suited for a wide variety of shooting situations and user types. At the core of the new mirrorless camera are an Exmor 24.2 MP CMOS image sensor and the latest BIONZ X image processor with front-end LSI, inherited from Sony's full-frame cameras. This powerful trio improves overall image quality and performance for all photo and movie genres.

In addition, the camera offers autofocus with a 0.02-second response time. The 425-point phase-detection autofocus covers approximately 84 percent of the sensor. Combined with the 425-point contrast autofocus, the Alpha 6600 provides reliable autofocus performance even under difficult lighting conditions.

It is also equipped with real-time tracking that uses the latest Sony algorithm with AI-based object recognition, so subjects are captured ultra-sharp even via the touchscreen on the back. In addition, this model features real-time eye-detection autofocus and the latest version of Sony's eye autofocus technology. This AI-based object recognition captures eye data in real time and processes it directly. This optimizes the accuracy, speed, and tracking performance of eye-detection autofocus for people and animals, allowing photographers to focus on capturing the image.

Eye for detail

The Alpha 6600 has also been equipped with other features to optimize usability. Natural color algorithms, adopted from full-frame models, especially for skin tones, provide improved color reproduction. High-resolution integrated 4K movie recording with pixel readout without pixel binning in Super 35mm format and with straightforward smartphone transfer is possible via the Imaging Edge Mobile application. The interval recording function enables stunning time-lapse movies. The 3.0-inch LCD touchscreen with approximately 921,000 pixels tilts 180° on this model. This allows for a good view of the recordings in any situation. A built-in microphone port enables video recording with ultra-clear movie sound.

Top innovations in full-frame cameras

With an ISO range of 100 to 32,000 (expandable to ISO 50 to 102,400), the new Alpha 6600's outstanding low-noise performance delivers sharp images even in challenging lighting conditions. Optimal noise reduction and sharpness processing significantly reduce noise in images without sacrificing high resolution, so subject structures and shadows are rendered in fine detail. Innovative body-integrated 5-axis image stabilization provides a 5.0 step faster shutter speed.

The leading long battery life introduced for the first time in an APS-C camera with the Z battery of Sony ensures long performance for approximately 720 photos via the viewfinder or approximately 810 shots via the LCD monitor . The camera is packaged in a rugged magnesium alloy construction that is dust and splash resistant and perfectly protected for travel. Once real-time autofocus with eye detection is activated for video recording, the eye of the subject in question is automatically tracked ultra-precisely and reliably, allowing the filmmaker to focus entirely on the subject.

The Touch Tracking function also automatically starts Auto Focus with Eye Detection when a person is selected as the subject. High-quality headphones can be connected via the built-in headphone jack for precise control of the recorded sound.

4K recording

With the Alpha 6600, 4K movie recording is possible in Super 35mm format with full pixel readout without pixel binning, capturing about 2.4 times the amount of data needed for 4K movies. The Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) image profile built into the Alpha 6600, supports direct, authentic playback of video footage to an HDR (HLG) compatible TV without the need for color correction. S-Log3 and S-Log2 gamma profiles are provided for users who want to post-process their footage with color correction.

Wide AF area, extremely high AF speed and subject tracking

The high focus point density covers about 84% of the image area. The fast hybrid AF achieves the world's fastest acquisition time of 0.02 seconds with the best AF phase detection and contrast detection. High-density AF points around the subject are activated for moving subjects.

Fast continuous AF/AE shooting at up to 11 frames per second

Shoot at up to 11 frames per second with minimum display delay, 8 frames per second in Live View, and up to 116 JPEG shots (default) in sequence. By viewing settings in the electronic viewfinder and displaying them in near real time, you'll capture every action moment.

Silent continuous shooting

When silence is required, shooting at up to 8 frames per second is possible without noise, even in AF-C mode. When combined with AF with real-time eye detection or real-time tracking, this opens up new creative possibilities.

Instant tracking

Start real-time tracking by half-pressing the shutter button, or select the subject by touch. You can also assign the tracking function to a custom button.

AI-based subject tracking

The camera's tracking system uses AI-based subject recognition algorithms. It processes spatial information on color, pattern (brightness), and distance (depth). In addition, high-speed tracking of the eye and face is performed in real time.

AF with real-time eye detection for humans

AF with real-time eye detection provides reliable eye detection and continuous tracking even when the subject is moving, backlit, looking down, or when part of the face is obscured.

AF with real-time eye detection for animals

The same eye detection algorithms that make beautiful portraits work are now available for animals, so you can capture beautiful pet portraits and wildlife shots.

Right/left eye AF selection by touch.

You can prioritize the subject's left or right eye not only in settings, but also with a simple touch on the camera screen.

Smooth Transition Focus

Depending on the situation, the focus area automatically and seamlessly transitions between the face and eyes of the subject you are tracking.

Enable Tracking with Touch Tracking

Thanks to the Touch Tracking feature, you just need to touch the screen to start real-time tracking for photos or movies.

Tilt and Pan Control

Compensate for camera shake when tilting and panning, which is most apparent when shooting at longer focal lengths.

Horizontal and vertical axis

Compensate for camera shake in the horizontal and vertical directions, which is most apparent when shooting at high magnifications such as macro.

Roll compensation

Compensate for rotational shake, which is most noticeable during long, handheld video shooting.

Latest generation Exmor™ APS-C CMOS sensor and BIONZ X™ image processor.

The 24.2-megapixel APS-C image sensor offers highly efficient light capture, a wide sensitivity range, and low-noise performance even at high ISO settings. Together with the latest-generation BIONZ X image processor, it delivers superior image clarity and textural reproduction.

Low-noise performance at high ISO

The α6600 features a wide sensitivity range of ISO 100-32,000 (extended to ISO 50-102,400) with outstanding low-noise performance, enabling high-quality images even in very low light.

Improved color reproduction

In the α6600's algorithms for faithful color reproduction, our renowned full-frame cameras provided the blueprint. The rendering of human skin tones and vivid colors has been significantly improved. In addition, staircase effects and false colors are reduced.

Support for S-Log recording

S-Log3 and S-Log2 gamma curves feature wide dynamic range (up to 1300% of Rec.709) to minimize whiteouts and blackouts and provide more color shaping options in postproduction.

Slow and fast motion recording

Record slow-motion (up to 5x) and time-lapse (up to 60x) movies directly from the camera. Or use Full HD video at 120 frames per second to create high-quality slow-motion footage during post-processing.

Greater range with external touch functions

Convenient touch functions such as touch focus and touch tracking, available on the α6600's display, can be accessed even when external monitors are connected to the camera.

Tell stories your way

With the α6600, professionals and amateur filmmakers can create engaging videos. The 180° tiltable display is ideal for vlogging and challenging shooting angles. Professional-level audio recording is possible with the external microphone jack and monitoring headphone jack. The improved grip ensures shake-free, comfortable recording for several hours.

High-capacity Z-battery for long recording time

To enable longer shooting times, the α6600 is equipped with the same high-capacity battery used in many of our full-frame cameras. At the same time, the camera's slim design remains intact.

Dust- and moisture-resistant housing.

The camera is dust- and moisture-resistant, and a lightweight but durable magnesium alloy has been used for the top, front, and rear covers, as well as the internal frame.

Customizable functions

The camera's 11 buttons can each be assigned one of 91 different functions. Functions can also be assigned to the command dial and the control dial. The personal menu function allows you to enter up to 30 menu items.

Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN © for Sony-E

High speed of F2.8 and superior image quality

The SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary covers the focal length range between 27 and 75mm (equivalent to 35mm format) - and it does so with a consistent F2.8 aperture, making it ideal when you want to crop the subject for portraits and close-ups against a blurred background that won't distract from the subject in focus because of the attractive, soft bokeh.

With three high-precision, bright-molded aspheres and a reduction in the number of optical elements overall, the lens achieves superior image quality at a low weight. In-camera optical noise correction further helps eliminate aberrations such as distortion and vignetting. This performance is made possible by advanced lens development technology at SIGMA's sole manufacturing facility in Aizu, Japan, where all SIGMA lenses are produced.

Exceptionally lightweight and compact - ideal for mirrorless cameras

The SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary is remarkably lightweight and compact, making it the perfect match for mirrorless APS-C cameras. It is the perfect standard zoom, ideal for everyday use and up to a wide range of shooting situations. The lens is currently the smallest and lightest in its class*, with a maximum diameter of 65.4mm, a length of 74.5mm and a weight of 290g*, while maintaining a constant F2.8 aperture.

To keep the weight down, SIGMA has constructed the lens from specially selected materials. The lens barrel is made of TSC (Thermally-Stable-Composite) polycarbonate, which is slim and robust and, most importantly, has a thermal conductivity similar to that of aluminum. This ensures high reliability and smooth operation under changing temperatures. For some internal components, SIGMA made a conscious decision to use metal, as these parts require less material while providing greater strength. As a result, the lens is designed to withstand more intensive use.

*As an autofocus Zoom lens with a continuous speed of F2.8 for APS-C (as of October 2021, from SIGMA).

Suitable for a wide range of shooting situations.

The SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary has a fast and nearly silent autofocus that makes it recommended for a wide range of photographic applications, including shooting in quiet environments and capturing video and photos that require fast focus tracking. This is achieved by using a stepper motor to drive the focus. Since the lens is small and lightweight, it can be used very flexibly in situations that require high mobility, or when shooting from hard-to-reach shooting positions, gimbal shooting, one-man video recording and vlogging. A wide range of uses was a priority in the development of the lens, and SIGMA has chosen a design with a closest focusing distance of 12.1cm and a maximum magnification of f/2.8**, making it ideal for close-up shooting. Together with the extremely compact full-frame SIGMA fp camera, this results in a total weight of just 712g - so the lens can also serve as a "back-up" on a full-frame camera in crop mode if, for example, the weight of the equipment needs to be minimized.

The 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary, which combines compact dimensions, light weight, high performance, and fast speed, handles a wide range of tasks primarily with entry-level mirrorless models in both photography and video shooting, but also with full-frame cameras.

**The specifications for magnification and closest focusing distance apply to the shortest focal length.