Classic Camera Reviews

Back in 2005, before Sony launched their Alpha line of interchangeable-lens digital cameras, they introduced the very unusual DSC-R1 “bridge” camera, which offered a highly regarded zoom lens, a then wide ISO range of 160-3200, and an APS-C 10.3 MP CMOS sensor. The camera even featured a two-inch swiveling and rotating LCD, which was a pretty big deal in 2005.

Because the Sony DSC-R1 had so many features that were unusual at the time, it’s worth considering if this “flagship” camera of Sony’s early prosumer line was the ancestor of today’s modern mirrorless models. In the interesting video below from TheCameraStoreTV, Chris Niccolls hits the streets of New York with the Sony DSC-R1 to find out.

The Innovative Sony R1 was never a big seller, but in this episode of Niccolls’ “Unsung Cameras of Yesteryear,” you’ll see him shoot some pretty cool photos with 12-year-old beast, and learn why he feels it’s the precursor of the mirrorless cameras of today.

One bit of caution before watching this video: When you’re done you’ll probably want to head over to eBay and get one of these dinosaurs for yourself, and it will cost you between $200 to upwards of $300, depending upon condition.

You can find more interesting stuff on TheCameraStoreTV YouTube channel. And be sure to look at an earlier video of theirs we shared, demonstrating the best (and worst) ways to carry a camera. You may also want to check out our review of the Sony DSC-R1 from 2006.