Sony E-Mount Lens Guide Here >>

Using AutoHDR with the Sony Nex-5n

In this “Hands On” video tutorial I’ll show you how to use the AutoHDR feature with the Sony Nex-5n in detail!!  It’s pretty easy but there is a few options you should be aware of.

Note: I accidentally had the camera set to Continuous focus mode (AF-C) and that is why the focus was not locking on in the video. I had it set for video testing and forgot to set it back. I’ll fix the video asap!!

A few AutoHDR Samples:

Sony Alpha 35 Sample Photos - autoHDR
Sony Alpha 35 Sample Photos – autoHDR
Sony Nex-5n w/ 18-55mm lens - Sample Photos - AutoHDR
Sony Nex-5n w/ 18-55mm lens @ f/20, 4sec, 18mm, ISO 100, AutoHDR @ 6ev
Sony Alpha 35, Sony SAL-1680Z 16-80mm f/3.5-4.5 Carl Zeiss Lens, AutoHDR
Sony Alpha 35, Sony SAL-1680Z 16-80mm f/3.5-4.5 Carl Zeiss Lens, AutoHDR
  1. Nice overview of the NEX’s auto-HDR. On a separate but related topic, I have read elsewhere that the C3 and 5N also have an HDR Painting mode in the “Picture Effects” menu. However, my C3 does not have this HDR Painting mode (at least not that I could find). Any idea why?

    1. Hi Keith,
      I’m sorry to inform you, but the Nex-C3 does not have that option. The Nex-5n does though, See below:
      Nex-C3:
      Picture Effect: Toy Camera,Pop Color,Posterization (Color),Posterization (B/W)),Retro Photo,High-key,Partial Color(R),Partial Color(G),Partial Color(B), Partial Color(Y),High Contrast Monochrome

      Nex-5n:

      Picture Effect(s) : 11 types (15 variations): Posterization (Color, B/W), Pop Color, Retro Photo, Partial Color (R,G,B,Y), High Contrast Monochrome, Toy Camera, Soft High-key, Soft Focus, HDR Painting, Rich-tone Monochrome, Miniature
      Best,
      Jay

      1. That’s what I thought, but then I read this:
        “New modes found on NEX-C3 are HDR Painting, Rich-tone Monochrome, Soft Focus, Soft High-key m(which replaces High-key) and Miniature, a unique effect that transforms scenes to look like photos of miniature models.”
        which can be found toward the bottom of the page at:
        http://www.sonydigitalimaging.com/camera-bodies/e-mount/nex-c3/features-creative-control.html
        Perhaps it’s something that could be added through a firmware upgrade sometime in the near future? Here’s hoping so. Thanks for the reply!

        1. Hmmm, That must be it! A New Firmware update will most likely add the feature as it’s only software 😉 Sorry about that and thanks for sharing that link!!
          Best,
          Jay

  2. Firmware update for nex-5n came out today. However, it didn’t cover the missing picture effects. My mistake. I didn’t read the manual. Several of the picture effects are only available in the P/A/S/M mode including the HDR Painting effect.

    1. Thanks for the info and update Steve. I read the Firmware update came out, but I need to post that info for you all!!
      Best,
      Jay

  3. Very detailed and accurate presentation on how to use hdr. Is there a way to edit pic and crop pics while viewing?

    1. Hello,
      Thanks for the comments!
      Do you mean while still on the camera? If so, no. Afterwards on the Computer your options are limitless.
      Best,
      Jay

  4. Hi
    I am considering getting the a7r II and wanted to know whether the auto HDR can shoot +3, 0, -3 EV?
    Thanks
    Mark.

Leave a Reply to KeithCancel reply