Sony RX100 III (DSCRX100M3) Digital Camera Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Sony RX100 III is a premium compact digital camera designed for exceptional image quality and portability. Featuring a 20.1 MP 1-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor and a high-performance 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens, it delivers stunning photos and HD video. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your camera.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the Sony RX100 III Digital Camera.

2. Setup

2.1. What's in the Box

• Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III Digital Camera
• NP-BX1/M8 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (3.6V, 1240mAh)
• AC-UB10 AC Adapter
• Micro USB Cable
• Wrist Strap
• Strap Adapter
• Warranty Documentation

2.2. Battery Installation and Charging

Insert the NP-BX1/M8 battery into the battery compartment located at the bottom of the camera. To charge, connect the camera to the AC-UB10 AC Adapter using the Micro USB Cable. The charging time is approximately 230 minutes.

2.3. Memory Card Insertion

The camera supports SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo memory cards. Insert the memory card into the designated slot until it clicks into place. Ensure the card is inserted correctly to avoid damage.

2.4. Initial Setup (Date/Time)

Upon first power-on or after a factory reset, the camera will prompt you to set the area, date, and time. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure these settings.

3. Operating the Camera

3.1. Power On/Off

Press the ON/OFF button located on the top of the camera to power it on or off.

3.2. Basic Photography

The camera features a 20.1 MP 1-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor and a 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens. Use the shutter button to capture images. Half-press to focus, then fully press to take the shot.

Figure 3.1: User operating the Sony RX100 III camera, utilizing the tilting LCD screen for a low-angle shot.

3.3. Shooting Modes

Rotate the mode dial on the top of the camera to select various shooting modes, including:

• Program Auto (P): Camera automatically sets aperture and shutter speed.
• Aperture Priority (A): Manually set aperture, camera sets shutter speed.
• Shutter Priority (S): Manually set shutter speed, camera sets aperture.
• Manual Exposure (M): Manually set both aperture and shutter speed.
• Scene Selection (SCN): Optimized settings for specific scenes (e.g., Portrait, Sports Action, Macro, Landscape, Sunset, Night Scene, Handheld Twilight, Night Portrait, Anti Motion Blur, Pet Mode, Gourmet).
• Movie Mode: Dedicated mode for video recording.

3.4. Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)

The camera features a pop-up electronic OLED viewfinder with 1,440,000 dots. Push the FINDER switch to extend the EVF for eye-level framing, especially useful in bright conditions.

Figure 3.2: Top view of the Sony RX100 III with its electronic viewfinder extended.

3.5. Tilting LCD Display

The 3-inch tiltable TFT LCD with 1,229,000 dots can be adjusted for various shooting angles, including 180-degree tilt for selfies or low-angle shots.

Figure 3.3: Rear view of the Sony RX100 III with its LCD screen tilted upwards for flexible viewing.

3.6. Video Recording

Record HD movies in 1080 60p/24p using XAVC S2, AVCHD, or MP4 codecs. The camera offers full exposure control during video recording. A dedicated MOVIE button is located on the rear of the camera.

3.7. Control Ring

The control ring around the lens allows for precise manual adjustments of various features, such as zoom, aperture, and creative functions. It operates smoothly for quiet adjustments during video recording.

3.8. Connectivity (Wi-Fi & NFC)

Utilize built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for one-touch sharing of images to compatible smartphones and tablets, or for remote camera control using the PlayMemories Mobile app.

3.9. Built-in ND Filter

The built-in 1/8 (3 EV steps) ND filter allows for exposure adjustment in bright scenes, enabling wider photographic expression.

4. Maintenance

4.1. Cleaning

Regularly clean the camera body with a soft, dry cloth. For the lens, use a lens brush or blower to remove dust, followed by a lens cleaning cloth and solution if necessary. Avoid touching the lens surface directly.

4.2. Battery Care

To prolong battery life, avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures. Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use. Fully charge the battery before extended shooting sessions.

4.3. Storage

When storing the camera for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment, preferably in a camera bag or case.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1. Common Issues

• Camera not powering on: Ensure the battery is charged and correctly inserted.
• Memory card error: Reinsert the memory card or try a different compatible card. Ensure the card is not full or corrupted.
• Image blurry: Check focus settings, ensure adequate lighting, and use SteadyShot image stabilization.

5.2. Factory Reset

If you encounter persistent issues or wish to restore the camera to its original settings, perform a factory reset. This will delete all custom settings and registered data.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

7.1. Warranty Information

This product comes with a 1-year warranty covering labor and 1-year coverage for parts. Please refer to the included warranty documentation for full terms and conditions.

7.2. Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries, please visit the official Sony support website or contact their customer service hotline. Contact information can be found in your product's documentation or on the Sony website.