1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of your Sony Alpha a6400 mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the camera and retain it for future reference. The Sony Alpha a6400 features a 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor, 4K UHD video recording, and 11 frames per second continuous shooting, paired with the versatile E 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 OSS lens.
Figure 1: Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera with E 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens.
2. What's in the Box
Verify that all the following items are included in your camera kit:
- Sony Alpha a6400 Camera Body
- E 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens
- Rechargeable Battery (NP-FW50)
- AC Adaptor (AC-UUD12)
- Shoulder Strap
- Body Cap
- Accessory Shoe Cap
- Eyepiece Cup
- Micro USB Cable
3. Camera Overview
3.1 Front View
Figure 2: Front view of the camera, showing the lens mount, grip, and front dial.
3.2 Top View
Figure 3: Top view of the camera, highlighting the mode dial, hot shoe, and power switch.
3.3 Rear View and Tilting LCD Screen
Figure 4: Rear view of the camera, showing the LCD screen in a tilted position, ideal for various shooting angles.
4. Setup
4.1 Attaching the Lens
- Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the lens.
- Align the white index mark on the lens with the white index mark on the camera body.
- Mount the lens by turning it clockwise until it clicks into place.
4.2 Inserting the Battery and Charging
- Open the battery cover on the bottom of the camera.
- Insert the NP-FW50 battery with the correct orientation until it locks.
- Close the battery cover.
- Connect the camera to the AC adaptor using the micro USB cable to charge the battery. The charging lamp will illuminate.
4.3 Inserting a Memory Card
- Open the memory card cover.
- Insert a compatible SD/SDHC/SDXC or Memory Stick Duo card into the slot with the contacts facing the correct direction until it clicks.
- Close the memory card cover.
4.4 Initial Settings
Upon first power-on, follow the on-screen prompts to set the language, date, time, and region.
5. Basic Operation
5.1 Powering On/Off
Slide the ON/OFF switch located around the shutter button to power the camera on or off.
5.2 Shooting Still Images
The camera offers various shooting modes, including Program Auto, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual. Use the mode dial on top of the camera to select your desired mode.
- Autofocus: The camera features a fast 0.02-second autofocus system with 425 phase-detection and 425 contrast-detection points covering 84% of the sensor area.
- Continuous Shooting: Capture fast-moving subjects with up to 11 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting.
Figure 5: The camera's capability for 11 frames per second continuous shooting.
5.3 Recording Movies
The Sony Alpha a6400 supports 4K UHD (2160p) video recording. Press the MOVIE button to start and stop recording.
- Special Movie Functions: Create time-lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos directly in-camera without requiring post-processing.
Figure 6: The camera's ability to record high-quality 4K video.
5.4 Using the LCD Screen
The 3-inch LCD screen is tiltable up to 180 degrees, making it suitable for various shooting angles, including vlogging and low-angle shots. It also features touch screen functionality for intuitive control.
Figure 7: The LCD screen tilted 180 degrees for flexible viewing.
6. Advanced Features
6.1 Real-Time Eye AF and Tracking
The camera incorporates advanced Real-Time Eye AF and Real-Time Tracking technologies for precise and reliable subject focus, even with fast-moving subjects.
Figure 8: Demonstration of the Real-Time Eye AF feature, ensuring sharp focus on the subject's eyes.
6.2 Connectivity
The camera supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless transfer of images and remote control via a smartphone or tablet.
7. Maintenance and Care
7.1 Cleaning the Camera and Lens
- Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera body.
- For the lens, use a lens brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth and solution if necessary. Avoid touching the lens surface directly.
- Do not use organic solvents such as alcohol or thinner to clean the camera.
7.2 Battery Care
- Charge the battery fully before use.
- Store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Camera does not power on. | Ensure the battery is correctly inserted and fully charged. |
| Battery drains quickly. | Frequent use of Wi-Fi, continuous shooting, or video recording can consume battery faster. Consider carrying spare batteries. |
| Camera becomes warm during use. | It is normal for the camera to become warm during extended video recording or continuous shooting. If it overheats, it may shut down automatically to protect internal components. Allow it to cool down. |
| Images are blurry. | Check focus settings. Ensure the lens is clean. Use a higher shutter speed or image stabilization (if available on lens) in low light. |
| Cannot connect to Wi-Fi/Bluetooth. | Ensure Wi-Fi/Bluetooth is enabled on both the camera and the connecting device. Refer to the camera's network settings. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | ILCE6400M/B |
| Sensor Type | APS-C type (23.5 x 15.6 mm), Exmor CMOS sensor |
| Effective Still Resolution | 24.2 MP |
| Video Resolution | 2160p (4K UHD) |
| Continuous Shooting | 11 FPS |
| Autofocus Points | 850 (425 Phase Detection, 425 Contrast Detection) |
| Lens Type | E 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 OSS Zoom Lens |
| Screen Size | 3 Inches |
| Display Type | Tilting LCD, Touch Screen |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Battery Type | NP-FW50 Rechargeable Battery |
| Storage Media | Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Duo Hybrid (UHS-I) |
| Item Weight | 1.61 Pounds (body with lens) |
10. Warranty and Support
10.1 Manufacturer's Warranty
This Sony Alpha a6400 camera is covered by a 1-year manufacturer's warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
10.2 Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or detailed information not covered in this manual, please visit the official Sony support website or contact Sony customer service.
You can also refer to the official User Guide (PDF) available for download from the Sony support page for comprehensive details.
