Sony announces the NEX-3 and NEX-5 cameras

The Sony Alpha NEX-5, at 24.2mm thick, is described by Sony as being the 'world's smallest and lightest interchangeable lens digital camera'. The camera is mirrorless, similar to the micro-four-thirds system cameras from Panasonic and Olympus. With no internal mirror built in, the body of the camera can be smaller and lighter.

Both the NEX-3 and the NEX-5 have 14.2Mp Exmor APS HD CMOS sensors, which are more akin to sensors found on digital SLR than compact cameras, and should therefore reduce the effect of graininess in pictures - particularly when shooting.

In low light.Both cameras will launch in June alongside three compatible lenses from Sony. The SEL16F28 is a fixed 16mm pancake lens, while the SEL1855 is a more versatile zoom. The new cameras will be available to buy with one or both of these lenses.

The SEL18200 lens will also be available offering an 11x optical zoom, however this will need to be purchased separately. An ultra wide len converter (VCL-ECU1) and a fisheye lens converter (VCL-ECF1) will be available to mount to the pancake lens.HD video on the Sony NEX cameras To find the best digital camera, read our digital camera reviews.

The LA-EA1 lens mount will be available, which will allow users to connect a number of digital SLR lenses to the NEX-3 and NEX-5. Both models can capture HD video at 1920x1080 resolution and the NEX-3 can capture HD video at 720p.

Which is more suitable for uploading to video-hosting sites on the internet. Sony claims that the NEX-3 and the NEX-5 can both capture seven still frames per seconds at full resolution, and have an on-screen guide to help users become more familiar with manual photography.