Sony Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

I can say nothing about the image quality, it just great. I more concerned here about the usability.
Here is the list of my disappoints:
1. Live view can be used only in some ideal condition - not to dark and not to bright.
When it's too dark the LV sensor makes to much noise, when it's too bright, the LCD glares and even when it set in the maximum brightness, the image it produces almost not seen. The LCD brightness setting is hidden deep in the menu and can't be changed easy.
2. The viewfinder is too small.
3. The camera's shutter is loud. It sounds like a steam machine when it releases. The camera constantly makes some noise on long exposures.
Don't buy this camera if you're going to take picture of small children.
4. The proprietary USB connector. Why, why it could not be just a mini-USB??? Please, tell me, where can I get a converter?
5. The dial wheel and the shutter release button located in the same place, make me sequentially use one finger to operate both of them. Hey, I still have nine others fingers left!
6. The digital zoom button and the preview zoom button - are different buttons. Couldn't they be the same button?
7. The camera does not allow you to reassign features of the hardware buttons, like the other cameras do.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

great camera for entry level photographers. Also, a decent back up to a more advanced camera. Steady shot beats most in lens and all entry level in lens stabilization. Live view is FAR better than any other live view implementation.

OVF a little small, wish it had a rear control dial

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

This is my first DSLR camera and I would recommend it to anyone. I bought this camera after using my sister-in-law's. I love it. I had a Minolta Maxxum 7 35mm that I have had for several years. My lenses are compatible with both cameras. I am not a pro and am just trying to get started in photography but since I bought this camera photography is not a hobby any longer it's an addiction. I have to agree that the LCD should swivel too. But other than that I have no other complaints.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

This being my first DSLR or even SLR for that matter I'm relatively new to the whole field, so a lot of research had to be done. However, this camera is easy to use. It has good auto settings for those who are new, but it also has many customizable settings for when you get better. The live view comes in handy when you need crazy angles so you don't have to conform to the camera. The camera takes good pictures the software that comes with the camera allows good browsing and the editing software has many features as well. I've gotten some good pictures and hoping I get good ones in Germany. The kit lens is very good if you need to take pictures of architecture or scenery (I good some good pictures of a pond back in the woods). It would have been nice if the LCD had a adjustable brightness, cause it was a little hard to see in direct sunlight when your trying to use live view. Overall I'm very happy with the camera.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

I'm an enthusiastic hobby photographer and quite new to DSLR. I did some online research before I buying; but I've always had a sweet spot for Sony.

The camera is great; it has all the functionality I wanted and it works great! The battery time is excellent. I use the viewfinder a lot more than the liveview, but at times liveview and the tilting screen comes in handy. I find the built-in flash is a bit limiting; my next purchase will be a flash.
The stabilization works magic and the menus and functions are easy to learn and understand.
I love this camera!

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

This is my first DSLR, but far from my first SLR. For years I shot two Nikon F2 bodies and a wide array of fixed lenses. Only within the past 10 years have I used digital cameras; my last three digicams have been Sonys. Cash being as thin as it was, I finally stepped up to a DSLR. I am very pleased with the body -- the lenses, not so much. But that's as much my fault as the lenses themselves. I purchased the A300 with the included Sony 18-70mm 3.5 to 5.6 lens. I also purchased the Sony 75-300mm 4.5 to 5.6 lens. Both of these lenses are not what one would term particularly fast and, as a result, not particularly expensive. In other words, I got what I paid for in terms of lens sharpness and quality; i.e., not so much. But I must admit I really enjoy the 300mm (roughly 450mm in 35mm reference) range of that lens.

I originally wanted to purchase the A200 on the basis of a recent Popular Photography magazine review. However, upon researching the A200 I discovered that the A300 had "live view," something I'd come to take for granted on the zoom Sonys I own. I knew I DEFINITELY wanted the live view option. And a 10.2 MP camera yielded a sufficiently large image for my personal use as I am not a professional photographer and don't anticipate producing anything more than an 8 X 10" print on my color printer.

First, the body: rugged and BIG. I hadn't expected the body to be quite so large. On the other hand, it feels good in my hands, solid, firm. The grip is comfortable for the right hand and provides a good texture for the fingers. The right index finger can find the shutter release quickly.

However, bring a beer or three when it comes time to read the manual. There are lots of things this camera can do and many of them are buried under the MENU and FUNCTION buttons. I'm not a camera idiot but I found myself frequently checking back with the manual in order to determine the location of, say, white balance.

The rear monitor is sharp and clear and (with this function on default) activates when you move your eye from the optical viewfinder following a photo. More information is displayed here for a few seconds, then disappears. One caveat with the rear monitor: you might wish to protect it with a sheet of clear plastic (one of those sheets you can purchase at a camera or electronics store). I found that, with my oily nose, I made nose prints all over the left side of the monitor. So either I need to keep placing the protective sheets there or I need a smaller, drier nose.

Things I really like: 1) LIVE VIEW! 2) The camera's heft, its feel in the hand; 3) Very CLEAR viewfinder; 4) Tilting rear screen; 5) Built-in flash.

Things I need to work on: 1) I've yet to figure out the focus pattern and system; under some conditions it focuses VERY rapidly and I can fire off a quick series of photos. Under other circumstances the camera refuses to pick up the focus and I've missed shots. I'm about 99.8% certain this error is mine and I've not yet completely determined how to suss out the focus.

The A300 possesses an image stabilization system (important for me because, at 60, I don't "hold" nearly as well as I used to when 21) in the body, which means you can utilize a wide range of similar mount lenses and the camera still can comp you, I believe, at least a stop.

I've only had the camera for three weeks now, and haven't used it extensively therefore, with time, I'll become more familiar with its many and buried features. I have discovered that it can take photos in a digital black-and-white, one small feature that I particularly enjoy.

Couple this body onto some killer, fast lenses (the ones I purchased are NOT, please make note, Carl Zeiss lenses) and this camera would keep most anyone pleased, I suspect.

The camera accepts CF cards or a Sony Memory Stick Duo with a CF carrier only. If you have a horde of those standard Sony Memory Sticks (as I do) they will NOT work in this camera. You will have to buy CF cards because there is NO card included in the set. After the camera arrived from B&H, I acquired two 8GB CF cards; they should hold me for a while. There IS, however, an NP500 chargeable battery included, along with the requisite charger. I purchased one more backup battery. With a UV/Haze filter over each lens front element (mostly for protection) I was In Like Flint.

For a first-time DSLR purchaser or someone looking for a VERY reasonably priced backup for another body, this is an excellent camera. I have nothing but good things to say about the Sony A300. Make no mistake; it is a full-sized, chunky bodied camera but, for me, that is a large plus. I've missed holding a camera this size and very much appreciate its myriad of controllable and customizable features.

Yes, for those unfamiliar with every little aspect of a DSLR (like myself) there will be a learning curve; but I was ready to step up from a digital zoom camera for a full-featured camera.

Three Sony still cameras (plus my prosumer VX2000 MiniDV cam) have treated me VERY well over the years in terms of reliability -- including the Sony digital camera that was drenched by a Pacific Ocean bow wave off April Point in Canada and, after drying, came back to life a week later -- so I believe I'll do equally well with this camera too.

FIVE STARS for the Sony A300. Big, sturdy, firm, full-featured. I do NOT believe you will be disappointed.

BZ

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

Outdoor photography
Indoor photography

Is a good DSLR if you want a cheap camera.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

THIS IS THE BEST CAMERA I HAVE. GOOD PRICE, TAKE GOOD PICTURES AND EASY TO USE. WITH ADAPTER CAN I USE A EXTERNAL PRO. FLASH.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

I bought these fantastic digital camera a few months ago, and I must say I´m very impresed. It is very easy to come with all the menu functions and the queality of the images are fantastic.
I very very happy with my decision (it was dificult with all the offer we have nowadays) and is fantastic to use again the couple of minolta lenses I got in the wardrobe.
With those 10megapixeles resolution I guess it´s most than enough to get prints over 60 x60 cms (I already try it and the are fantastic).

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

The Alpha 300 is my first DSLR and I've got to say it has been worth every cent! I had debated about upgrading to a DSLR for some time and finally made the switch a couple months ago and haven't been happier with a camera. The 300 is very affordable but doesn't sacrifice any quality or features and even adds the extremely versatile tilting live view screen. This comes in handy when taking pictures at strange angles that would be very hard to compose through the viewfinder. If you're looking for a solid DSLR at an affordable price point, look no further!

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

This camera is very easy to use--controls and menus are intuitive and logical. I started shooting the day I got it and have not been disappointed. Fairly small if you have large hands (I do not), light weight. No noise problems so far. The only thing I don't like is the neck strap. I thought it was pretty much on the low end. Overall good value for the price. Don't hesitate to give Sony a try--I think you'll be pleased.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

I bought this camera (a-300 + kit 18-70 + Sigma 18-200) after some search, looking for a consumer D-SLR that featured live view + tilting display.
My photo-history goes from Manual/film SLRS (Minolta X-700 and X-300), to compact digital, and a Canon Powershot Pro-1 in the last 3 years. This is my first D-SLR.
After the Canon, I got used to the possibilities and creativity I found provided by the tiltable display, and even wanting to upgrate to a DSLR, this prevented from going to a "standard" one.
I initially considered the Olympus E-330, the E-3, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10, but those were either not so well reviewed, ot too expensive for my budget.

I was looking also for good ergonomics, easy to access WB and others setting (no menu browsing, but possibly a single, direct-access button for everything). I also thinked of getting a second hand Konica-Minolta Maxxum 7-d, because of that.

In any case i was not interested in a super-wide lenses range (so not needed a Canon or Nikon).

I have been using the camera for 2 weeks now, travelling.

Pros:
- good overall dimensions and balanced weight. I have big hands, and the Canon Rebel/350/400/450 are a really too small, for example.
- quick: to turn it on, to shut, focus (kit lens is better than the Sigma) and continuos shooting. But I have no direct experience with other D-SLRs, other than trying few shots on a Sony A-100, and a Canon 400.
- Easy to use LiveView. Good tiltable LCD, although it protrudes a little too much from the body. And a fully orientable LCD is way better (see Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10), more useful and practical.
- good enough viewfinder. Not as wide and bright as standard SLRS, but still very usable and comfortable.
- useful in-body Steady Shot stabilisation. You really get 2-3 stops more, without increasing the noise by pumping the ISO setting.
- Access to older second hand Konica-Minolta lenses. Not so easy to find, but still quite good.
- price: the camera, with all the features it has, is pretty cheap.

Downs:
- Some common settings (WB - exposure and focus modes - flash power, and others) need some menu browse. Not so bad, menus a really well designed, but still some clicks away form a one-button setting. I would have liked more buttons, like the Sony A-700.
- body is plastic. Not awful, it is firm and well contructed/designed, but things like the flash look a little cheap.
- flash raises little when popped up. With long or wide lense you risk some shades in the photo.
- Propetary Flash mount and battery. Battery is very good, but I couldn't find aftermarket, cheaper, ones.

Overall, I am satisfied of my choice. I might think of an upgrade to a A-700 or a second hand Minolta 7-D in the future, should I find myself not using the liveview + tilt LCD that much anymore.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

I bought this camera mostly for fun/hobby use. I intend on using it for stop-motion animation and for a few business pictures.
Overall, you get a good range of features for the price, the camera is a great value. The battery life is the best in its class as far as I can tell. The auto focus is surprisingly intuitive and accurate (I usually hate auto focus in general). The image stabilization is great, I have been able to take crisp hand held images at shutter speeds around 1/15.
The low light sensitivity is fairly weak, iso above 800 is incredibly grainy, but this is the case for all entry level digital SLR's. If you want better, you'll have to spend a lot more.
In manual mode, the aperture adjustment is a pain to use, but again, this is the case for all others in this price range.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

We used this for the first time on a trip to California. We took a bunch of great pics. By far one of the easiest cameras for me to date. Most impressed with the battery life and the image stabilization. It's also lighter than I thought. I would totally recommend this to anyone, definitly first time photographers. It's so easy to use.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

I purchased this camera because of the articulating LCD. I have not been disappointed. I often need to hold the camera above a crowd of people and this feature alone sets it apart from others in its price range.

Most of the needed adjustments can be made quickly via buttons. Manual focus is quick and helped along by magnification of the subject on the LCD.

Performance is good. The camera handles well and the build feels solid. Colors feel natural, but reds are a little oversaturated. The stock lens is not as sharp as the Canons I have used. It is also a little noisy.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

I'm an amateur photographer with a renewed interest in the hobby. I researched DSLRs before buying. Sony's liveview, in-camera stabilization, positive reviews on the IQ and functionality of the A200 (same sensor), and the pricing incentives offered by Sony recently, the A300 hit the sweetspot for me.

The camera with kit lens is working well for me and I'm very pleased. Viewfinder is clear, liveview works really well and I can see it in the sun. Stabilization has saved many a picture for me when I know I'm pushing the envelope.

I knew what I was getting before I purchased, so I can't complain about anything, but if someone asked me what I'd like improved/changed:
viewfinder - it requires some head manipulation for me (I wear glasses) to see the whole picture AND read the settings at the bottom - but no real biggie.
Non-standard flash shoe is inconvenient, but there are inexpensive workarounds.

Having had it for a few weeks and a couple of trips, would I make the same decision? YES!

And B&H was a pleasure to deal with - I would do business with them again.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

I got my Sony Alpha A300 3 weeks ago. For a long time I wasn't sure if I should buy the A300 or A350. I don't regret at all that I have chosen the A300. 10.2 megapixels are well enough. The camera is very fast and the picture quality excellent. The whole family likes to take pictures with it. The controls are easy to understand and very intuitive. I also use an older Minolta zoom I bought together with my Dynax. The results are perfect and I can of course take advantage of the Super Steady Shot feature of the A300.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

This is my first SLR Camera. It takes very clear pictures and has so many great features! I will probably never have professional pictures of my kids taken again, I will just do them myself!

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

While I bought this camera I was bit unsure about it as I read in reviews that the High ISO performance is not that good. But I found that till 800 it is superb. And the features are also superb and I did used the tiltable liveview for shooting some low height shots. Though the liveview is not as bright and clear as few P&S, but u cant complain.

Comments about Alpha DSLR-A300 SLR Digtial Camera with Sony 18-70mm Lens:

This my first dslr so I cant compare it to anything else. Tilting LIVEVIEW is pretty awesome. It reminds me a point and shoot as far as liveview goes. I've used it to get shots I've normally would not have been able to take. I did wish it swiveled though..that would make it perfect. The colors are extremely vibrant. I do very little post work because the colors just pop! Most of my pictures are taken outdoor with plenty of light. The pictures I took indoor weren't as good. I 'll have to do more manual adjustments to compensate for low light conditions.