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Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens

  • No Longer Available
  • B&H # SODSLRA290L
  • Mfr# DSLRA290L

Product Highlights

  • 14.2 Megapixel
  • APS-C Format CCD Sensor
  • 2.7" TFT Photo Clear LCD
  • Anti-Dust Technology
  • Creative Style settings
  • 2.5 fps Continuous Shooting
  • High Sensitivity (ISO 3200)
  • Dynamic Range Optimizer
  • On-screen Help Guide

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Remember the Essentials

A memory card is not included with the camera.
Get a high-capacity memory card so you don't get caught without memory.

The Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens is a compact DSLR designed around a 14.2 (effective) megapixel APS-C format CCD sensor that utilizes a Sony BIONZ image processor to capture and process image files as RAW, JPEG, or RAW+JPEG at speeds of up to 2.5 frames-per-second. The Alpha A290 features the smallest and lightest body of any Sony Alpha series camera for improved portability, as well as an intuitive button layout that allows for easy single-handed operation. Files can be stored onto Memory Stick PRO Duo or SD/SDHC memory cards.

For indoor snapshots or eliminating 'raccoon eyes' when shooting portraits outdoors on sunny days, the Alpha A290 has a built-in pop-up flash (guide number 10 in meters @ ISO 100). There's also a hot-shoe for use with Sony dedicated TTL flashguns and other Sony-compatible flashguns.

For composing images the A290's eye-level pentamirror viewfinder shows 95% of the total image area. A rear-mounted 2.7" TFT Clear Photo LCD allows you to review the images you just photographed.

To facilitate sharp, well-exposed images, the Sony Alpha A290 utilizes a 9-point autofocus (AF) system that can be used in single or multi-shot mode. There's also an 'eye-start' mode which kick-starts the AF system when you raise the camera to your eye. For on-the-nose exposure readings the A290 features a 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC TTL metering system and Sony's D-Range Optimizer for balanced shadow and highlight details.

Other features of the Sony Alpha A290 include a Dust Reduction system, ISO settings that can be adjusted from a native 100 through an extended ISO 3200, a wide selection of shooting modes, an easy-to-read, easy-to-use menu interface, on-screen help guide and Sony SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization system for sharper imagery when shooting under low-light conditions with all Sony, Minolta, and Konica AF-mount lenses.

The included Sony SAL-1855 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT AF Lens has an equivalent focal length of 27-82.5mm in the 35mm/full frame standard. This is the perfect starter lens allowing you to shoot close-up and distance subjects. The Sony Alpha A290 powers off a Sony NP-FH50 lithium-ion battery, which can capture 500-plus images per charge.

14.2 Megapixel CCD Sensor
A 14.2 (effective) megapixel APS-C format CCD imaging sensor captures sharp images capable of producing detailed, poster-size prints
BIONZ Image Processor
The advanced BIONZ image processor uses hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry to enhance images with rich tonal reproduction, reduced noise, and improved white balance and exposure control, for clear, sharp photos even at high sensitivity settings.
2.7" TFT Photo Clear LCD
Review your images and monitor camera settings on the large 2.7" (diag.) Clear Photo LCD Plus display, which provides sharp, clear viewing, even in outdoor environments.
Fast 9-Point AF System
9-Point Center Cross AF Sensor with improved focus control to help bring images into sharp definition more quickly, and predictive focus control automatically calculates the position of fast-moving subjects.
Eye-Start Autofocus
Eye-Start Autofocus System begins precision autofocus adjustments the moment you raise the camera to your eye, so the camera is ready to catch the perfect moment.
High Sensitivity (ISO 3200)
A broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables you to capture beautiful color images even in very dim light -- with High ISO Noise Reduction technology that reduces picture noise artifacts at high-sensitivity ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 settings by eliminating noise from RAW data after analog-to-digital conversion.
Dynamic Range Optimizer
Dynamic Range Optimizer provides two levels - Standard/Plus to improve results with backlit subjects and recover details hidden in shadows or lost in glare. Normal DRO improves detail using standard gamma curves for fast shot-to-shot response time, while Advanced DRO adjusts dynamic range area-by-area for greater accuracy.
2.5 fps Continuous Shooting
Continuous Shooting lets you shoot at up to 2.5 fps while viewing your subject through the optical viewfinder so you never lose track of the action.
SteadyShot INSIDE In-camera Image Stabilization
SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization is built into each camera body, so every a-mount lens benefits from the ability to minimize blur due to camera shake.
Creative Style Settings
Creative Style settings give you control over how the camera processes your images. Choose from 8 finishing styles, including Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, B&W, and Adobe RGB, and fine tune them to your personal taste with the ability to adjust contrast, saturation, and sharpness settings.
Scene Selection Modes
Scene Selection Modes optimize camera settings for different shooting situations. Just turn the Mode Dial to select from Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset, and Night View modes.
Dual Slot Compatibility for Memory
The camera is compatible with high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC media (sold separately) for convenient storage and sharing of your images.
Smart Teleconverter 2X Digital Zoom
Smart Teleconverter 2X Digital Zoom lets you zoom in electronically on your subject and it reproduces pixels on a 1:1 basis so there's no degradation in picture quality. One touch zooms in at 1.4X, while the second touch advances to 2X zoom -- creating the 35mm equivalent of a telephoto effect with the camera's standard 18-55mm optical zoom lens.
Anti-Dust Technology
Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the CCD imager clean, resulting in consistently better pictures, by utilizing a static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter, as well as an anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the CCD to help dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.
Integrated On-screen Help Guide
Integrated on-screen Help Guide and Graphic Display help take the complexity out of DSLR photography. The Help Guide offers clear, concise explanations of various modes and settings, while the graphic display helps you understand the relationship between aperture and shutter speed, as well as the effect each has on photographic results.
Function Guide Display
Function Guide Display provides intuitive and easy to use on-screen menus that can be activated and operated with one hand using the Fn (Function) button and controller button to adjust Flash mode, Autofocus mode, White Balance, Metering mode, AF area and D-Range Optimizer.
Built-in Pop-Up Flash
The Auto Pop-Up Flash automatically pops up and fires as needed when the camera is set to certain scene selection modes, helping first-time DSLR photographers shoot more effectively. In addition, the A290 features an integrated hot shoe, which lets you expand your lighting options with a range of accessory flashes (sold separately).
Lightweight and Stylish Body
The DSLR-A290 features a stylish, modern design with an intuitive button layout for easier operation. In addition, the lightweight body and revised grip make the camera more comfortable to hold and carry.
Stamina Battery Power
Stamina Battery power allows you to take up to 500 shots on a fully charged NP-FM50 InfoLITHIUM battery when using the optical viewfinder mode, and you'll be able to see how much power remains in percentage increments, so you can keep shooting in confidence.
Index and Slide Show Display
Index and Slide Show Display enable you to quickly review your photos using 4, 9 or 25-frame index views, or as an automatic slide show with fade-in/fade-out effect.
PhotoTV HD Compatibility
PhotoTV HD compatibility lets you automatically create high-resolution thumbnails optimized for viewing on a compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTV.
HDMI Terminal and BRAVIA Sync Compatibility
An HDMI terminal gives you the option of connecting your camera to a compatible HDTV and playing back your images in stunning high definition quality (HDMI cable required, sold separately). In addition, BRAVIA Sync works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs to let you control camera playback using the television's remote (HDMI cable and BRAVIA Sync capable HDTV required, sold separately).
Camera Type Digital SLR Camera
Imaging
Resolution Effective: 14.2 megapixels , Recorded: 14.9 megapixels
Sensor 23.6 x 15.8mm APS-C format CCD sensor
Bit Depth Not Specified By Manufacturer
File Formats RAW, RAW+JPEG, JPEG Fine, JPEG Standard
File Size Not Specified By Manufacturer
Color Spaces Adobe RGB
Creative Color Modes Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night view, Sunset, & Black/White
Image Stabilization Optical Image Stabilization (Sony SteadyShot INSIDE)
Crop Factor 1.5
Optics
Lens Interchangeable Lens System
Zoom 18-55mm
Lens Mount Sony a lens, Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lens
Focus Type Auto, Manual
Focus Range 0.82' (0.25m) to infinity
Accessory Lens/Filter Mount 55mm
Shooting Controls
Sensitivity ISO 100-3200
Shutter Speeds 1/4000 second - 30 sec, bulb
Metering TTL metering w/ 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC
Exposure Modes Auto, Auto Flash Off, Program Auto, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual
White Balance Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Flash, Custom
Mirror Lock-Up Not Specified By Manufacturer
Burst Capability Up to 2.5 fps
Self Timer Yes
Interval Recording Not Specified By Manufacturer
Remote Control Not Specified By Manufacturer
Flash
Built-in Flash Yes
Effective Flash Range 10 meters
External Flash Connection Hot Shoe
Dedicated Flash System Sony TTl Dedicated Flash System
Max Sync Speed 1/160 second
Memory
Built-in Memory No
Memory Card Type Memory Stick PRO Duo, SD and SDHC memory cards
Still Images per GB Not Specified By Manufacturer
A/V Recording
Video Recording No
Video Resolution N/A
Video Clip Length N/A
Audio Recording No
Viewfinder/Display
Viewfinder Type Fixed eye-level, penta-Dach-mirror
Viewfinder Coverage 95%
Display 2.7" TFT Photo Clear LCD
Connectivity/System Requirements
Connectivity USB 2.0, HDMI mini connector (Type C)
System & Software Requirements PC: Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional, XP SP2, Vista
Mac: OS X (v10.4) or later
Environmental
Operating/Storage Temperature Operating: 32 - 104°F (0 - 40°C)
Weatherproofing Not Specified By Manufacturer
Durability Not Specified By Manufacturer
Power
Battery Type NP-FH50 Li-ion
Power Adapter Not Specified By Manufacturer
Physical
Dimensions 5 x 3.8 x 3.13" (128 x 97 x 79.6mm)
Weight Body only: 1.00 lbs (456g)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens
 
4.4

(based on 22 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (10)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (11)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (1)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

95%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Easy to use (20)
  • Good image quality (19)
  • Fast / accurate auto-focus (16)
  • Fast shutter speed (12)
  • Image stabilization (12)

Cons

  • Small LCD screen (4)

Best Uses

  • Family photos (20)
  • Travel (17)
  • Landscape/scenery (15)
  • Low light (13)
  • Wildlife (11)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Photo enthusiast (12), Casual photographer (6)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (17), Yes (3)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Simple to use entry level camera

I bought this camera as a backup to my sony a700. Its easy to use and has a handy in camera guide. It is pretty light, however it has a plastic cheap feel to...Read complete review

I bought this camera as a backup to my sony a700. Its easy to use and has a handy in camera guide. It is pretty light, however it has a plastic cheap feel to it. The kit lens with it seems pretty good. I found most of the functions simple to use and liked the brief explanations of how each mode works. I found the continuous advance drive to being no different than the single advance mode if you are fast on the shutter button. The battery seems to last a good time and I like the ability to use different memory cards.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

Great Camera But Imp Feature Missing

This is my first DSLR camera. I graduated from a point and shoot camera. I bought this since this was one of the most basic of DSLR's that I found.

The pictur...Read complete review

This is my first DSLR camera. I graduated from a point and shoot camera. I bought this since this was one of the most basic of DSLR's that I found.

The picture quality of the snaps is great and it is indeed small and light as compared to its other high end cousins. The look and feel of the camera is very good and it is easy to use - especially for someone who is new to DSLR's.

But I fould 1 very important feature missing - the Live View feature.

Since I am very used to a point and shoot camera, I hate to keep looking through the optical view finder to focus on the object.

I would rather recommend buing this camera's advanced version - the Sony A390 since it has the live view feature.

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 22 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-20

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5.0

love the camera great photos

By MIKE SUYUNOV

from DULUTH, GA

About Me Photo Enthusiast

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Easy To Use
  • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
  • Fast Shutter Speed
  • Good Image Quality
  • Good Image Stabilization
  • High ISO Performance
  • Quiet

Cons

  • No Viewfinder
  • Small LCD Screen

Best Uses

  • Family Photos
  • Indoors/Low Light
  • Landscape/Scenery
  • Travel
  • Weddings/Events
  • Wildlife photos

Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

loved the camera, except for the lcd screen wont give you the live image i would still recoomend this camera defintely worth the price thank you...

  • Ease of Operation:
  • 10
  • Was this a gift?:
  • No

Comment on this review

 
5.0

MY FIRST DSLR

By KARL

from CLEMSON, SC

About Me Semi-pro Photographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Easy To Use
  • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
  • Fast Shutter Speed
  • Good Image Quality
  • Good Image Stabilization

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Family Photos
    • Indoors/Low Light
    • Sports/Action
    • Travel
    • Weddings/Events
    • Wildlife photos

    Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

    I HAVE USED THIS CAMERA EVERYDAY SINCE I HAVE GOTTEN. IT IS WITH ME ALL THE TIME. I AM KNOWN NOW AS THE PHOTOGRAPHER. I KNOW HAVE IRRITATED PEOPLE WITH IT AS WELL. HOWEVER, I APPRECIATE HAVING THIS CAMERA. IT DOES SO MUCH THAT I HAVE NOT EVEN SCRATCHED THE SERVICE. I ONLY USE THE MANUAL MODE AND SHOOT IN B&W. HOWEVER, YOU CAN EDIT THIS TO YOUR SHOOTING STYLE. THERE ARE SO MANY WAYS TO ADJUST AND CALIBRATE THIS THINGS ITS ALMOST OVERWHELMING. I DO NOT LIKE THAT THE BATTERY TAKES THREE HOURS TO CHARGE. IT DOES LAST ENOUGH FOR ME. I JUST WISH IT DIDN'T TAKE THAT LONG FOR A CHARGE.

    • Ease of Operation:
    • 9
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

     
    4.0

    Nice DSLR for the price!

    By SimplyTisha

    from USA

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Use
    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
    • Good Image Quality

    Cons

    • Short Battery Life

    Best Uses

    • Family Photos
    • Landscape/Scenery
    • Travel
    • Wildlife photos

    Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

    This is my first DSLR, and though I'm still learning how to use it, I am definitely impressed with what you get for the price. You can't beat Sony DSLR's if simply for the compatibility to older Minolta lenses.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

     
    4.0

    nice camera for beginners

    By Ani

    from nj

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Use
    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
    • Fast Shutter Speed
    • Good Image Quality

    Cons

    • Small LCD Screen

    Best Uses

    • Family Photos
    • Travel

    Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

    this is my first slr, which I am using mostly for family photographs. Since I do not have another to compare to I don't know how it stacks up to other popular models, but its serving me well. First, it is easy to use and most of the controls are pretty intuitive. I wish the aperture button were in a different place though for faster changes in manual mode. The af speed is decent and the pictures are good. The best part about this camera was the price. If you are looking for a decent slr at a good price...you can't go wrong with this sony.

    • Ease of Operation:
    • 8
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

     
    5.0

    Love everything about this camera!

    By Lori B

    from Lexington, NC

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Use
    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
    • Fast Shutter Speed
    • Good Image Quality
    • Good Image Stabilization
    • High ISO Performance
    • Large Clear LCD
    • Quiet

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Family Photos
      • Indoors/Low Light
      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Sports/Action
      • Travel
      • Weddings/Events
      • Wildlife photos

      Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

      I really can't think of anything negative to say about this camera. This is my first digital camera, having always used a film SLR. The owners manual is pretty easy to understand and the cameras features are easy to use. I'm getting great photos using the 18-55 lens that comes with it as well as my other lenses that I have for my Minolta SLRs. I also find the editing software that comes with it to be easy to understand and use. Really great camera for the price!

      • Ease of Operation:
      • 9
      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Comment on this review

       
      4.0

      Well-made, easy to use

      By Bill

      from Cortland, IL

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy To Use
      • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
      • Fast Shutter Speed
      • Good Image Stabilization

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Family Photos
        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Travel

        Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

        Bought this for my daughter for her high school graduation.

        • Ease of Operation:
        • 8
        • Was this a gift?:
        • Yes

        Comment on this review

         
        4.0

        OK for a 1st time aspiring proffession

        By c4picardo

        from Qatar

        About Me Casual Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Easy To Use
        • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
        • Fast Shutter Speed
        • Good Image Quality
        • Good Image Stabilization
        • High ISO Performance
        • Large Clear LCD
        • Quiet
        • Tilt /Swivel LCD

        Cons

        • Cannot view from the LCD
        • No video recording

        Best Uses

        • Family Photos
        • Indoors/Low Light
        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Sports/Action
        • Travel
        • Weddings/Events

        Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

        Great and easy to use. However be aware you cannot view from the LCD screen and click a photograph. You have to use the small view finder. I think this is a very big con. No video recording possible.

        • Ease of Operation:
        • 9
        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

         
        5.0

        Excellent Camera- would buy over again!

        By Malz

        from Boston MA

        About Me Casual Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Easy To Use
        • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
        • Fast Shutter Speed
        • Good Image Quality
        • Good Image Stabilization
        • High ISO Performance
        • Large Clear LCD

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Family Photos
          • Indoors/Low Light
          • Sports/Action
          • Wildlife photos

          Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

          I owned the A100 right when it came out in 2006. I loved that camera. I decided to buy the A290 because it was right around the A100 like i had but a bit simpler which is great for me. I love photography and carry this camera everywhere. It is lighter than my A100 and better quailty because of up to date features. I mainly use it for free lance and sport shooting. Works great for both. I have Minolta lenses and they fit on this great as well. I didnt want to waste the lenses.

          I am glad i bough this camera!

          • Ease of Operation:
          • 9
          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          I'm in love with mines

          By Ms.Littlejohn

          from Bridgeport,Connecticut

          About Me Photo Enthusiast

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Easy To Use
          • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
          • Good Image Quality
          • Large Clear LCD

          Cons

          • Short Battery Life

          Best Uses

          • Family Photos
          • Indoors/Low Light
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Travel

          Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

          I like it so much and it has me intereste din buying another in the futer.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          I found the Alpha A290 a great camera!!!

          By wally

          from NY/NYC

          About Me Photo Enthusiast

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Easy To Use
          • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
          • Good Image Quality
          • Good Image Stabilization
          • High ISO Performance
          • Large Clear LCD

          Cons

          • Noisy At High ISO
          • No Viewfinder

          Best Uses

          • Family Photos
          • Indoors/Low Light
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Wildlife photos

          Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

          this DSLR camera has a great feeling to it, i felt like a pro using it. the grip was amazing and it was surprisingly light, i took many interesting pictures that my fellow photographers loved! but the only thing that bothered me a little was there is a slight delay time when the camera is over exposed! but am new at this so i think its natural.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Comment on this review

           
          4.0

          GREAT INVESTMENT

          By TURNING PRO

          from HARLEM, NY

          About Me Casual Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Easy To Use
          • Fast Shutter Speed
          • Good Image Quality
          • Good Image Stabilization
          • Large Clear LCD

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Family Photos
            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Sports/Action
            • Travel
            • Weddings/Events
            • Wildlife photos

            Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

            I am a novice photographer, new to all sort of cameras, but not new to great investments. I had been very cautious about the purchase of a digital camera. I spent months reading reviews to ensure that I would get the best camera for my dollars.I found the A290 last year and felt that it would be the best camera for me, but I was still very cautious about purchasing the camera. So...it took me a year. The price has been reduced because there have been other cameras that have been released recently. [...]The features are easy to learn and I've been taking tons of photos. Surprisingly, friends and professionals have asked who has taken the pictures and I laugh when they discover that I am the photographer. Buy this camera...you won't be sorry.

            • Ease of Operation:
            • 8
            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Comment on this review

             
            5.0

            Nice Camera

            By 3M

            from Madison , Ohio

            About Me Photo Enthusiast

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easy To Use
            • Good Image Quality
            • Good Image Stabilization
            • High ISO Performance
            • Large Clear LCD
            • Quiet

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Family Photos
              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Sports/Action
              • Travel
              • Wildlife photos

              Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

              Easy to use. Light weight. Great picture quality.

              • Ease of Operation:
              • 10
              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Comment on this review

               
              4.0

              Great for Starters

              By pinaypie

              from Virginia Beach, VA

              About Me Casual Photographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Easy To Use
              • Good Image Quality

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Family Photos
                • Indoors/Low Light
                • Landscape/Scenery
                • Travel

                Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

                Its very easy to use specially this is my first slr camera and the quality is superb

                • Ease of Operation:
                • 9
                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                (4 of 4 customers found this review helpful)

                 
                4.0

                A good entry level SLR

                By kidmuto

                from New York, NY

                About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Use
                • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                • Good Image Quality
                • Good Image Stabilization
                • Good price value

                Cons

                • Only 3 framers per second
                • Small LCD Screen

                Best Uses

                • Family Photos
                • Travel

                Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

                This is a great entry level SLR but it is just that - entry level. Don't expect advanced features you'd find on a higher-end camera. It also makes a decent backup SLR for those that already own an more expensive camera.

                The camera takes great snapshots and for the amatuer it will be difficult to find a better quality SLR. The basics are all covered, with plenty of automated features. The manual is easy to understand, and both camera/lens are durable. Quality of photos is excellent.

                One of the best things about the camera is the price point. This is in my opinion the best digital SLR available at this price, much better than the equivalents class models from Canon or Nikon.

                Another great feature is the battery life. I can easily use this camera for several hundred shots before needing a charge.

                What I don't like about the a290:
                1. Sony seems to have taken a step backwards by removing some buttons from the body and replacing them with the menu system. Particularly, steady shot (camera stabilization) and some of the flash functionality. These are things I play with quite often, and don't want to manipulate through several menus and "clicks" to choose the right setting.
                2. There is minimal flexibilty with certain settings (e.g. bracketing range). That's almost to be expected with a camera in this class.
                3. Continuous shooting is poor - it is limited to 3 frames per second whereas similar models from other vendors can go much faster.

                • Ease of Operation:
                • 8
                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                 
                4.0

                Versatile, easy to use, great pics

                By 80k

                from Portland, OR

                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Use
                • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                • Fast Shutter Speed
                • Good Image Quality
                • Large Clear LCD
                • Works w Minolta Lenses

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Family Photos
                  • Indoors/Low Light
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Wildlife photos

                  Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

                  Works amazingly well with my old lenses, takes great low-light pictures.

                  • Ease of Operation:
                  • 8
                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Comment on this review

                   
                  4.0

                  Great Digital SLR!

                  By Dr. B

                  from Minneapolis, MN

                  About Me Casual Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Good Image Quality

                  Cons

                  • Small LCD Screen

                  Best Uses

                  • Family Photos
                  • Indoors/Low Light
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Travel

                  Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

                  The A290L does a great job with flash pictures as well as low light situations. Built in guide is very helpful while getting started. This camera would be hard to beat for the money.

                  • Ease of Operation:
                  • 8
                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Comment on this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Wow what a camera/camcoder

                  By Moodman

                  from Golden Britsh Columbia Canada

                  About Me Casual Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                  • Fast Shutter Speed
                  • Good Image Quality
                  • High ISO Performance
                  • Large Clear LCD
                  • Quiet
                  • Tilt /Swivel LCD

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Family Photos
                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Sports/Action
                    • Travel
                    • Video
                    • Weddings/Events
                    • Wildlife photos

                    Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

                    Great camera, easy to use,easy to store in your pocket.I would recomend this gem to all my friends.It even is HD 1080...and for a great price.

                    • Ease of Operation:
                    • 10
                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • Yes

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    4.0

                    Totally recommendable

                    By ariasespinosa

                    from Laredo, TX

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Use
                    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                    • Fast Shutter Speed
                    • Good Image Quality
                    • Good Image Stabilization
                    • Large Clear LCD
                    • Quiet

                    Cons

                    • Video feature missing

                    Best Uses

                    • Family Photos
                    • Indoors/Low Light
                    • Travel
                    • Weddings/Events

                    Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

                    This camera fullfills my personal pictures needs, it is good to use with familiy, friends, and events, good for an amateur photographer.
                    The thinks that are great about it are that it is light easy to carry and use, friendly to operate, its features helps a lot.
                    To be perfect I feel like a video feature would've been great!

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • Yes

                    Comment on this review

                    (1 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    3.0

                    Great Camera But Imp Feature Missing

                    By KK

                    from MI

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Use
                    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                    • Fast Shutter Speed
                    • Good Image Quality
                    • Good Image Stabilization
                    • High ISO Performance
                    • Large Clear LCD

                    Cons

                    • no live view

                    Best Uses

                    • Family Photos
                    • Indoors/Low Light
                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Sports/Action
                    • Travel
                    • Weddings/Events

                    Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

                    This is my first DSLR camera. I graduated from a point and shoot camera. I bought this since this was one of the most basic of DSLR's that I found.

                    The picture quality of the snaps is great and it is indeed small and light as compared to its other high end cousins. The look and feel of the camera is very good and it is easy to use - especially for someone who is new to DSLR's.

                    But I fould 1 very important feature missing - the Live View feature.

                    Since I am very used to a point and shoot camera, I hate to keep looking through the optical view finder to focus on the object.

                    I would rather recommend buing this camera's advanced version - the Sony A390 since it has the live view feature.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Comment on this review

                    (5 of 6 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    4.0

                    Sony A290

                    By dieseldoghouse

                    from Carver, MA

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Use
                    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                    • Good Image Quality
                    • Large Clear LCD
                    • Quiet

                    Cons

                    • Poor Image Stabilization

                    Best Uses

                    • Family Photos
                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Travel
                    • Wildlife photos

                    Comments about Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens:

                    I purchased this camera to transition into the dSLR age and still utilize $2000 of Minolta MC/MD lenses, via an adapter sold by B&H. [...] Be aware your MC/MD lenses will only operate with the camera in manual mode but no biggie!! [...]

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Comment on this review

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                    Memory Cards

                    Required item: Memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.

                    SanDisk -  4GB SDHC Memory Card Extreme Class 10
                    • Price: $12.95
                     

                    Batteries & Power

                    Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.

                    Pearstone -  NP-FH50 H-Series Lithium-Ion Battery (7.4V, 725mAh)
                      • Original: $24.95
                      • Save: $2.49
                    • Price: $22.46
                     
                    Sony -  NP-FH50 H-Series Info-Lithium Battery Pack
                    • Price: $44.99
                     
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                    Temporarily out of stock

                    Lenses

                    Get a wide-angle, zoom, or other effect for various photography applications.

                    Sony -  SAL-75300 AF D 75-300mm f/4.5-5.6 Autofocus Lens
                    • Price: $248.00
                     

                    Filters

                    Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.

                    B+W -  55mm UV Haze SC 010 Filter
                    • Price: $18.50
                     

                    Lens Hoods

                    Shade your lens from unwanted stray light.

                    Pearstone -  55mm Snap-on Tulip Lens Hood
                    • Price: $12.95
                    Used Dept.
                     

                    Flash & Accessories

                    Get a flash to add light to your picture.

                    Lightscoop -  Sony Standard Mirror Bounce for Pop-Up Flash
                    • Price: $29.95
                     

                    Bags & Cases

                    Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.

                    Sony -  LCS-AMSC30 Soft Carrying Case
                    • Price: $69.00
                     
                    View all Accessories

                    What's in the Box

                    Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR with 18-55mm Lens
                     
                     
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