Auto Mode (7.0)
The fully auto mode truncates the DSC-T5’s menu so that only the burst mode and setup menus are accessible. All functions accessible through on-camera buttons, such as the image size and self-timer options, are still available though. There are pros and cons to this auto mode. Pros: it is easy to use and transitions the T5 into a complete point-and-shoot interface. Cons: the auto mode can only be found in the menus (it would make more sense to place it on the more accessible mode switch) and the mode remembers its settings. For example, if users change the flash mode and then turn off the camera or switch modes, the next time they return to auto mode will have the same flash mode selected from the previous shooting experience. I would personally prefer an auto mode that resets to its defaults every time it is accessed, although for many the camera’s memory bank will be of great assistance.

Movie Mode (6.5)
The Sony T5’s movie mode is very easy to find as it is located on the main mode switch. It has two image sizes: 640 x 480 and 160 x 112. The largest resolution records 16.6 frames per second, which looks acceptable, but is not nearly as smooth or naturalistic as 30 fps appears when replayed. The faster 30 fps frame rate is available, but only if the optional Memory Stick Pro Duo is used. The smaller option is meant for video mail, but its limited pixels and slow frame rate of 8.3 fps makes it hard to see what’s actually going on in the video. Sure, it’s easy to email. But the recipient will wonder whether it’s a virus or a real video. I would like to see a 320 x 240 image size, so the clip is recognizable and still easy to send. All video clips record audio simultaneously. There are lots of shooting options available in the movie mode, including exposure compensation, focus, metering, white balance, and picture effects. The only option notably missing from the T5’s movie mode is zoom of any kind. This digital camera doesn’t take great video in low light, even when the exposure compensation is adjusted. The continuous focus isn’t very fast; if the subject is moving, it will appear a bit blurred.

Drive / Burst Mode (6.0)
The burst mode on the Cyber-shot T5 consists of a normal burst mode and a multi-burst mode that shoots more quickly but at a smaller resolution. [Refer to the Testing / Performance section of the review to see exactly how fast the normal burst mode is] The multi-burst mode can be set to shoot at 7.5, 15, or 30 frames per second. Pretty fast, huh? The downside is that its frames are 320 x 240 pixels. The T5 stitches 16 of these small frames into a single image file. The individual frames can be viewed on the screen, but they are saved as one photo. Overall, I was impressed with the Sony T5’s burst mode. Many slim compact cameras overlook the burst mode entirely, so it’s nice to see a slim model with some speed.

Playback Mode (7.0)
The playback mode is located on the mode switch, so it is easy to find. If users want to just check out the last picture taken, they can press the left arrow of the multi-selector which acts as a review function. Otherwise, there is the playback mode that offers viewing, shooting information, and editing options. Viewing images on the 2.5-inch, 230K pixel LCD screen is bliss. The multi-connector cord can connect the Sony T5 to a television for alternative viewing. Slide shows can be played in a loop or only once. The interval time between photo can be selected as 3, 5, 10, or 30 seconds. When viewing individual pictures, users can put the photo in a folder, protect it from deletion, specify it as a picture in need of printing (DPOF), play it in a slide show, and resize or rotate it. Users can print from this menu as well. Pictures can be deleted with the on-camera trash button.

Custom Image Presets (6.5)
The Sony T5’s scene modes are located within the same menu that hosts the Auto and Program exposure modes. Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Soft Snap, Landscape, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, High-speed Shutter, Candle, and Magnifying Glass are available. The menu is made up of icons, but most are easy to understand. The only non-intuitive icon is for Soft Snap, which is kind of a non-intuitive scene mode in itself. The mode is for taking pictures of subjects that require a “gentle atmosphere,” according to Sony’s “Read This First” manual. The Soft Snap mode is characterized by a bust of one person with another person in the shadow behind. Loyal users of Sony-brand digital cameras will easily recognize this, but others will have to consult the manual. The T5 offers a live view of the ten scene modes as users scroll through them. For instance, if sitting indoors and checking out all the scenes, the High-Speed Shutter’s live view will get dark. This live view is always a nice feature for beginners who may not be sure which mode to use at times.

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