Sony’s mini-camera makes good shots a snap

How the tiny Sony NEX-C3 digital camera takes such sharp photos and high-def videos has everything to do with great lenses (which are interchangeable) and a big, super-sensitive sensor (great for low light) that’s about the size you would get in most bulky SLRs.

It measures 4.3-by-2.4-by-1.3-inches (without a lens), the camera comes with an 18-55mm zoom lens or 16mm wide-angle lens and includes a snap-on flash. There’s also an optional 18-200mm zoom lens. The screen can be tilted up or down for overhead or down-low shooting. You also get Sony’s Sweep Panorama mode: Sweep the camera in an arc, and it takes a slew of continuous pictures, then stitches them together to produce a 202-degree panoramic image. The camera’s pricey but you’ll pocket plenty of change for the better.

Sony NEX-C3 camera with 18-55mm lens is $649.99; $599.99 with 16mm wide-angle lens. 18-200mm zoom lens (sold separately), is $799.99. Info: Sony, (877) 501-7669.