The problem is caused by a glitch with the image sensor, which may mean the screen does not display images correctly, Sony said.
The recall applies to models sold worldwide between September 2003 and January 2005.
The electronics giant will repair for free only cameras that show signs of the problems, according to Sony spokesman Chisato Kitsukawa.
The recall applies to models DSC-F88, DSC-M1, DSC-T1, DSC-T11, DSC-T3, DSC-T33, DSC-U40 and DSC-U50.