Sigma EX - Telephoto zoom lens - 50 mm - 150 mm - f/2.8 APO DC HSM II - Minolta A-type Review

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(More customer reviews)I switched to this since my Nikno 70-200 was really getting heavy for a day of wedding photography. What i like: Very light, good working distance, nice easy zoom, fairly good images. What i dislike, a little soft at F2.8. Much better at F4.5. Not as vibrant colors...slighly cooler. Can easily flare...make sure you use the hood. No VR means you better shoot at fast shutter speeds or have really steady hands. Overall, a keeper for me. I now use this more than my 70-200. :-)

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This F2.8 large aperture telephoto zoom lens is designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras with APS-C size sensors and its compact, lightweight body provides freedom of movement and versatility. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting and ensures sharp images throughout the entire zoom range. The addition of the optional 1.4x EX DG APO or 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters produce a 70-210mm F4 AF tele-zoom lens and a 100-300mm F5.6 AF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively.

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Sony Alpha DSLRA350X 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 & DT 55-200mm f/4-5.6 Zoom Lenses Review

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(More customer reviews)This camera is really unbelievable for the price. If we're talking about the camera body (with no lens), I prefer it over the Canon Rebel XSi anyday (and I've used both). The problem for Sony is that their lens is sooooo crappy that the image quality goes straight down the toilet, and Canons lenses are for the most part very sharp and colorful.
The solution? Minolta lenses. I got my camera in the mail this morning and have played with it all day. From the second I unpacked the lens I was disappointed- even before I put it on the camera. It has an extremely cheap and plasticy feel, probably because it is cheap and made of only plastic. I'm actually pretty sure there's not a single piece of glass in the lens (which means, for those of you are new to this, that it sucks). I put it on and sure enough the results were not pretty. Don't run off to Canon's page so quickly, though- remember that this IS a 5 star review.
What makes up for sony's crappy crappy lens is the fact that you can use any Minolta lens from the past 20 years. In anticipation of purchasing this camera I brought 2 Minolta lenses from a garage sale a few weeks ago for a hundred bucks, and when I put them on the camera it was like magic. The autofocus still works in an instant, and the sharpness and color combined with Sony's 14megapixel sensor have left this former film-snob utterly impressed.
So my advice to advanced amateur photographers is to buy this camera. But just the body only. Save the hundred bucks to buy yourself a Minolta lens (or two). I thought I'd throw in the extra hundred bucks with this cam just to have an extra lens for my collection, and it was absolutely not worth it. I don't even know if I'll mount it onto my camera ever again. Seriously- It's a big plastic turd. I wouldn't buy it again if it was 20 bucks.
Also- I learned the complete menu for this camera in less than a day. The only negative things about this camera (except for the crappy turd plastico lens) are that it's not a full frame sensor (look it up, and then decide if you really want to spend and extra 1300 dollars to get a full frame sensor DSLR), and that there's a really dumb and pointless digital zoom button that is a total tragic use of space. I could think of ten more used/usable functions that could have gone there instead.
Really though, I couldn't be happier with this camera.

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With incredible 14.2 MP detail, Sony¿s ¿ (alpha) DSLR-A350 raises the standard of excellence for step-up digital photographers shooting both family memories and fine-art photos. Live Preview in a large 2.7¿ LCD screen links you and your subject -- and you¿ll have special features like super-quick AF response, continuous shooting at 2 fps while you see your subject in the viewfinder, Creative Style modes for quick recall of custom settings, and in-camera Super SteadyShot image stabilization that reduces blur with every Sony, Carl Zeiss and legacy Minolta a-mount lens.

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Sony Alpha A230Y 10.2 MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot INSIDE Image Stabilization and 18-55mm and 55-200mm Lenses Review

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(More customer reviews)After about a week with this camera, I really like it. I am a photographer and I needed a D-SLR, I wanted to start small, but not too small, and cheap. I did do a LOT of research before buying this. I would not recommend it if you need to take lots of fast consecutive shots, 2.5fps (frames per second) is not the fastest. Flash recovery time is a bit slow too. If you have large hands this camera might be strange too, the buttons have very little travel and are shallow and the grip is small. The menus and UI (user interface) are very very nice however. Easy to use and navigate. I really like this camera, it is basic, but has advanced features too. Color is pretty good, but for the best results you should play with the settings. Another plus is you can use Minolta lenses too. 18mm-55mm kit lens is pretty nice, 55mm-200mm is also very nice. Both are pretty light. Another thing is the shutter is kinda loud, not a huge down, but something to take note of. Also has a proprietary hot shoe (where you can attach an external flash) but you can buy an adapter online for about $5. The battery life is also pretty good. I really like it, and would recommend.

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Features

SteadyShot INSIDE™ in-camera image stabilization SteadyShot INSIDE™ DSLR-A200: more features, less blur. For family photographers who want greater quality and creativity, the Sony® α; (alpha) DSLR-A200 combines high-resolution 10.2 MP, simple operation, high sensitivity (ISO 3200), advanced noise reduction and convenient Creative Style settings. SteadyShot INSIDE™ in-camera image stabilization works with every lens, including Sony zoom, advanced Sony G-Series, pro-quality Carl Zeiss® lens designs and Minolta ±-mount lenses. Stamina® power provides up to 750 shots2 on a fully charged InfoLITHIUM® battery. Eye-Start Autofocus and pop-up flash help you shoot faster -- and a bright 2.7"1 LCD screen displays index and high-resolution thumbnail images. in-camera image stabilization is built directly into the camera body, so every a-mount lens benefits from the ability to minimize blur due to camera shake.
10.2 megapixel resolution for ultra-fine detail A 10.2 megapixel APS-size CCD image sensor captures your images in stunning detail, giving you the freedom to make large prints and tight crops without sacrificing quality.
Smallest, lightest α series body The α230 features the smallest and lightest body of any Sony® α (alpha) series camera for improved portability, as well as an intuitive button layout that allows for easy single-handed operation.
Integrated on-screen Help Guide and Graphic Display An 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

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Tamron Autofocus 70-300mm f/4-5.6 LD 1:2 Macro Lens for Konica Minolta SLR Cameras Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased Tamron AF 70-300mm LD lens for Canon over a month ago. The first roll of film was a bit of disappointing. I liked colors but some pictures lacked sharpness (fuzzy). After that I purchased introduction photography book published by Kodak and read it. Gained knowledge was invalueable. I used tripod and Kodak Gold 200 color print film. Pictures were developed on 5x7 photographs at York Photo Labs. All pictures of second roll turned out very nice and sharp (especially considering 200 film on 5x7 pictures). I even made picture of caterpillar in macro mode at 300 mm and f/8 and this turned out very nice as well. All pictures (including ones taken at focal length of 300 mm) turned out very nice. Ultra telephoto lens is demanding but wide-angle lens is forgiving. You have to consider it when you use telephoto lens. You need solid technique; otherwise, you might be disappointed if you take handheld pictures with lower shutter speeds. It is pretty hard to make sharp pictures even at 1/250 shutter speed and 200mm. Tripod works well though. The larger focal length the harder it gets. I would not feel comfortable with anything slower than 1/250s. Some people mentioned that f/8 gives better results. That is true pretty much for any lens. But at this aperture you need tripod when using ISO 100 films unless you are in sun. If you can't use tripod but you want to use this lens then you might use faster films (IS0 200 or ISO 400) to reduce camera shake. Build quality is good and great warranty gives you peace of mind. Customer service is quick too (don't worry my lens is not broken but I had some technical questions to Tamron). This lens is also sold as Nikon AF 70-300mm ED and users seem to enjoy it as well (even though they pay 100$ more). Focusing is kind of slow, especially in low-light conditions and at larger focal lengths (i.e. 300 mm). You can't blame lens for it because camera does focusing. At this low amount of light and narrow angle (7 degrees - camera gets not much lights through lens). It is not Tamron but nature of telephoto lens. This is why camera haunts in low-light conditions. Lens comes with lens hood (lens shade) so you don't have to buy one for this lens. Overall, I am very pleased with pictures and expect even better pictures on ISO 100 films and 4x6 prints. Use tripod as much as possible. Also cable release is recommended to reduce camera shake. Great lens for the money. Period.

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This is the definitive lightweight, compact telephoto macro zoom with a maximum magnification ratio of 1: 2 at the 300mm setting - ideal for shooting subjects that are difficult to approach such as sporting and theatrical events. The lens also features special effects such as the capability to provide beautifully blurred backgrounds to highlight the main subject in portraiture, or "compression effects" that make the most of the telephoto lens. By switching to macro mode, subjects as close as 0.95m can be shot within the focal range of 180-300mm, for true macro photography. The optical system incorporates a LD (Low Dispersion) lens, resulting in clear sharp images free of chromatic aberration.Type of zooming is rotation.

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Sony Alpha DSLR-A380 Digital SLR with 18-55mm & 75-300mm Lenses and Carrying Case wtih Turtorial DVD Review

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(More customer reviews)After researching Nikon for a month, I was ready to buy the Nikon D5000. My daughters teacher told me to look at Sony before plunking down the Nikon money. I'm so glad I did!
The body of the Sony has a vibration reduction built into the BODY of the camera so the lenses don't need it. This make Sony lenses several hundred dollars cheaper than the Nikon lenses (that have VR). Lenses being the most expensive part of photography, this feature made me look harder at Sony.
Recovery time from shutter press to ability to take the next photo is faster than on the Nikon. The Nikon was .5 to 1 second slower in recovery time. When you need to take several pictures fast (but not the continuous photo feature) this is a big thing.
The Sony is lighter. I held both camera with the 18-55 lens attached, one in each hand, and the Nikon is much heavier after about 3 minutes. When carrying a camera around all day, that is important.
I purchased my camera kit (body, 2 lenses, DVD and bag) for this price at Wolf/Ritz Camera in Denver. The people there allowed me to take several photos inside their store with both camera, using my SD card. I was also allowed to take several just outside the store. I used their 1 hour service to print the photos and found no quality difference. I printed them on 4X6 matte finish and at that small a size, the difference in megapixels (12 for Nikon, 14 for Sony) wasn't seen.
The price difference between the Sony and a comparable Nikon was so big that this kit is a no brainer! BUY IT! At 14mp this camera will last you years and you'll pass it on to your kids. And you won't spend all your money on lenses.
Okay, there are a couple features I wish the Sony had. Primarily video. This camera cannot take video. I have 5 kids and I use a small Kodak 12mp point and shoot for the video, so I still get that. The kodak takes nice video and is inexpensive, is small so it fits in my camera bag easily.
The bag that come with this kit isn't the best. I will buy a better one this week. The bag is too small for the camera with the lens on.
I took my Sony on a 4 day, 250 mile bicycle tour that I was SAGing for. I used it all weekend, took over 700 photos and the camera performed perfectly. The battery lasted over 500 shots (I used the optical viewfinder since it was so sunny I couldn't see the LCD) before needing recharged.
I'm very happy I purchased this Sony and expect it will last me many years to come.

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Blending breathtaking photography with easy-to-use operation, the lightweight and stylish Sony Alpha DSLR-A380Y Digital SLR Camera is ideal for step-up digital photographers. The Alpha A380 brings you the freedom of Live View, which lets you compose and shoot photos using a tiltable 2.7" LCD screen. Plus, 14.2 megapixel resolution provides superb image detail, and exceptionally quick AF response helps you capture the perfect moment. Moreover, SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization reduces blur with every Sony, Carl Zeiss lens, and legacy Minolta a-mount lens, while the on-screen Help Guide and Graphic Display help take the complexity out of DSLR photography. The Alpha A380Y comes with an 18-55mm standard zoom lens.FEATURES:
2.7"(diag.) Clear Photo LCD Plus featuring Live View with Quick Auto Focus - A large 2.7"(diag.) Clear Photo LCD Plus display features Live View with Quick Auto Focus, which lets you compose and shoot pictures in real-time using the LCD, just as you would with a point-and-shoot camera. In addition, the LCD display tilts up or down for low or high-angle shooting situations, such as capturing a child\'s first steps or shooting over a crowd.
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.
14.2 megapixel resolution for ultra-fine detaill - A 14.2 megapixel APS-size CCD image sensor captures your images in spectacular, high-resolution detail, giving you the freedom to make large prints and tight crops without sacrificing quality.
Lightweight and stylish body - The DSLR-A380 features a stylish, modern design with an intuitive button layo

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Sigma 50mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro Lens for Minolta and Sony SLR Cameras Review

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(More customer reviews)I recently purchased the Nikon D200 camera. I had several nice zoom lenses but I did not have anything which would take macro close-up photos. I did some research and found good reviews for this lens. So I got it.
The lens is an excellent lens for close-up photos. I am not a professional photographer but I try really hard to get good sharp photos. This lens will do the job.
Since it is also also a 50mm lens I have used it as a normal lens. The only problem with that is that over the years many of us have been spoiled with zoom lenses. With a zoom lens you can stand in one spot and zoom the lens in or out to get closer or father from your subject. With just the 50mm capability of this lens you have to physically move in or out to get a closer shot or a wider shot. This is not necessarily a criticism, just a comment about how we have been spoiled by zoom lenses.
I do not believe you will be disappointed with this lens. The price is great for the quality.

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Sigma launched its first standard 50mm macro lens in 1990, and followed it up with an improved model in 1998. The advent of digital SLR cameras, however, required updated optical technology and a better imaging performance. Enter the latest incarnation of the 50mm macro lens, with an improved design that corrects for various aberrations. Designed exclusively for Minolta and Sony SLR cameras, this macro lens is specially coated to get the best possible color balance while cutting down on ghosting caused by reflections from the digital image sensor. The lens also includes a floating focusing system, which allows you to precisely photograph objects throughout the entire focusing range. Most importantly, this standard macro lens makes it possible to enjoy better communication with your subject. When viewing through the camera's finder, you'll be able to move the subject and make precise adjustments. For example, the lens offers a close working distance of 7.4 inches, making it extremely convenient to take close-up pictures of a fossil or other inanimate objects.
Other details include a minimum aperture of f/45 that provides a greater depth of field than most lenses, a screw-in lens hood that makes it easy to attach circular polarizing filters, and a 46.8-degree angle of view. All Sigma lenses carry a one-year warranty.
Specifications
Focal length: 50mm
Maximum aperture: f/2.8
Lens construction: 10 elements in 9 groups
Angle of view: 46.8 degrees
Number of diaphragm blades: 7
Minimum aperture: f/45
Minimum focusing distance: 7.4 inches
Maximum magnification: 1:1
Filter size: 55mm
Corresponding mount: Sony and Minolta
Dimensions: 2.8 inches in diameter and 2.6 inches long
Weight: 11.3 ounces
Warranty: 1 year

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Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC Lens for Minolta and Sony Digital SLR Cameras Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a sweet little lens that really has no middle ground. You either love it or hate it. Most of the haters really either expect too much from this lens such as focusing in no light or on objects with no contrast and marginal light. The other reason there are detractors come from focus issues.
This seems to be a user problem in my opinion. When you shoot at f 1.4, the area in focus can be pretty shallow. An example is at f1.4 and at a distance of 5 feet, the areas in focus is just .45 feet. If you have a DSLR with multiple focus points, you might find what you want in focus is not selected by the camera. This gives the impression of a focus issue with the lens which it is not.
If you move into close focusing such as 2 feet using f1.4, the focus area becomes less than ¾ of an inch. Even the slightest movement by you or the subject can blow the focus. Again, this is not a lens problem but a user issue.
However, don't be discouraged by the above comments. This lens has so many possibilities from creative images to group portraits to low light photography. You just need to put in a little effort to learn the lens (and your DSLR). Also remember that stopped down to f4 at 10' gives you 5.45 feet in focus.
The 30mm lens also is about as close to a 50mm lens on a 35mm film SLR as there is. A 50mm lens was considered the de facto standard for an SLR in the old days and many people never had anything else. This is a very versatile lens.
The lens itself has an excellent build quality and includes extras such as a lens hood and case. It is sharp and offers great contrast and compares well against such a well regarded lens as the Canon 35mm f1.4L which is about 3 times the price.
You will not be disappointed in this lens at all and I highly recommend it. It is one of my favorite everyday lenses for my Canon 20D. (My everyday kit includs the Canon 17-40mm f4L, 70-200mm f4L, and a Canon 580ex flash.)

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Fully compatible with all Maxxum & Sony alpha mount digital SLR cameras, this large aperture 30mm F1.4 EX DC lens is designed to match the APS-C size image sensors of digital SLR cameras. Two SLD glass elements are especially effective in the compensation of magnification chromatic aberration.Glass mold aspherical lens at rear group of lens reduces color aberration and provides high-quality image results.From 40cm (15.7") minimum focusing distance to infinity, this lens creates very sharp images with high contrast.The models provide quiet high-speed auto-focus shooting, as well as full-time manual focus. Large Maximum Aperture of F1.4 can perform superbly in a great range of applications, including snapshots, portraiture, indoor shooting and landscape photography. Please Note:Vignetting will occur if the lens is used with digital cameras with image sensors larger than APS-C size or 35mm SLR cameras.

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Sony SAL70400G 70-400mm f/4-5.6 G SSM Lens Review

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(More customer reviews)I have been using this lens for the past three weeks. Mostly to shoot local league Rugby, Soccer, and Baseball. Let me say up front, if you do not have a monopod get one now. The total weight of a A700 and this lens is about 4.5 pounds. If you include the A700 grip you are lugging around about 6 pounds of gear. For the images you get its is well worth it the weight. For the bang for the buck this has got to be the best Sony lens out there. With the 1.5x crop factor on most of the Sony DLSR's (only the A900 is full frame) this becomes an effective 105-600mm zoom. It's used mostly at the 400mm (equivalent) setting and my shots are tack sharp even wide open. Since I use this mostly for sports I keep the camera is in shutter priority setting, usually at 1/1000 or 1/800 of a second. Focusing seems a bit faster with the built in SSM as opposed to the screw drive on the other lenses but not much different. Because the SSM uses a bit of battery power you will experience fewer shots per charge. The only negative about this lens is that when zoomed the lens does extend quite a bit. I had hoped that it's length remained the same throughout the zoom range as my Tamron 70-200 F2.8 does. But this is a small quibble when you factor in the image resolution and very fair price for a premium lens. Another plus, the silver finish really looks great. It really stands out nicely when I'm in the press box with the Canikon crowd.

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Sony System 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM

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Sigma EF-530 DG Super Electronic Flash for Sony DSLR Review

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(More customer reviews)Though the menu interface is not as nice as others, and the buttons look like they were taken from an 80's era toy, and the fact that the plastic feels cheaper than other brands this flash can hold its own against the best Canon can through at it. I had a 580ex I and while it was nice it weighed about twice as much as this 530 and did not put out a noticeable amount of power beyond this. I tested the flash on both at various f stops and power levels using full manual shutter/fstop/iso and flash power levels and found that for each fstop/power level combo I used for the 580 that the 530 provided just as much light output and my pictures were just as bright, with a slight difference at full power with f18 or higher where the 580 did push a tiny bit more light into my shots, but it is not enough matter in ANY of the other shots.
The recycle time is great on all but the 1/1 full power manual mode, where it is still better than a 580 or my 430 and heads and shoulders above a 550. It keeps up with me as well as the 580 does a stop down. It also outlasts a 580, which I always felt eats batteries more than uses them. The EF-530 seems to last about the same as a 430 somehow even though it puts out light like a 580. I am no electrical engineer but I am not sure how this is possible, but in my experience that is how it is.
It costs less than a 430, half of what a 580 runs you and does more than either one.
It does FP i.e. High Speed Sync with great results. It does second (rear) curtain sync, it can strobe based on a custom frequency you set up, so it can for instance pulse out a flash every second for 4 seconds or 5 per second for 1 second. This is cool for getting water drops, or bouncing balls, or any other moving object exposed multiple times in a single frame.
It can be a master flash, a slave flash, a non firing master, it has an optical trigger so it can be an optical slave. It works with all manor of remote triggers, albeit not as easily as a Canon does, you have to set the Sigma to the right mode first. It controls multiple slave groups via wireless, it works with ettl for automatic flash exposure, supports EV adjustments.
It does not have a sync port or pc port of any kind, it requires a hot shoe to fire or to be a remote wireless or optical slave. It pans and tilts though with 2 buttons like older flashes, not 1 button like the newer flashes do. That is more annoying than you might think.
The only real downside to this is how cheap it feels compared to the Canons, but with 2 Signas for the price of 1 580 and the fact that I have yet to actually break it in any way no matter how hard I have treated it I can honestly say that while it feels like it is of lesser quality it really isn't. Plus it is lighter than a 580, at least as light as a 430 give or take, so that may affect the feel of quality too.
I can honestly say that I would recommend this to anyone. In fact I do, to everyone who asks, because there is no good reason to pass this up. It does more, costs less, puts out roughly the same power, lasts longer, weighs less, looks good and works great. You won't regret it unless you are Brewster and need to spend your millions wastefully, at which point you would not care about reviews anyhow

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When there's insufficient or unsuitable light available to take a picture, it's of paramount importance to have a ready source of supplementary light to fulfill the need. That's where Sigma's EF-530 DG super-electronic flash comes into play. Designed exclusively for Sony digital SLR cameras, the flash offers a powerful guide number of 174 feet/53 meters and boasts the latest TTL automatic flash exposure control for easy operation. More significantly, the EF-530 is outfitted with a host of advanced features, including a modeling flash function, a multi-pulse flash, a TTL wireless flash, an FP (high-speed) flash, a rear-curtain synchro flash, and a manual flash mode that allows the photographer to set the flash power level by up to eight stops. The auto power-off function, meanwhile, automatically shuts off the display to save battery power. And when the flashgun is fully charged, the flash emits a confirmation-ready light, letting you check the flash exposure level through the camera's viewfinder.
Like Sigma's lenses, the EF-530 flash incorporates the latest features and technological advances, most of which aren't found on any other flash units save those made by the major camera makers themselves. They are the most powerful and completely dedicated flash units available for 35mm SLR and digital cameras.
Features:
Autozoom function that automatically sets the optimum illumination angle
Covers a focal length from 24mm to 105mm
A built-in wide panel that covers the 17mm angle
A tilting flashgun head for bounce flash (up by 90 degrees, to the left by 180 degrees, and to the right by 90 degrees)
A down tilt angle of 7 degrees for close-up photography
Sophisticated multifunction flash that can control advanced lighting techniques
Wireless slave-flash functions
Measures 3 by 5.5 by 4.6 inches (W x H x D)
Weighs 10.8 ounces
1-year warranty

What's in the Box EF-530 DG super flash for Sony cameras, soft case, hot shoe table stand, user's manual.

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Sony Alpha A380L 14.2 MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot INSIDE Image Stabilization and 18-55mm Lens Review

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(More customer reviews)I am a photographer-wannabe graphic and web designer.
I have taken this product to photoquests where I've subjected it to different types of landscapes, light and climate situations -- even some soft rain.
So far it has behaved beautifully with good battery life, fast enough recording speeds and good image quality even on its lowest settings.
The lens work good, but have had trouble trying to get long distance pictures (not enough optical zoom) but it was to be expected, and can easily be fixed by attaching adequate lenses for said purpose.
Only issue may be with the LCD screen, as it tends to get scratches on its surface ratter easily, so I'd suggest you get some sort of cover for it (I haven't been able to find it where I live - Colombia, Southamerica). Guess I'll have to buy it through Amazon too.
Can't really give much more advice as I am just a n00b at this stuff, but I can tell you this camera has opened a new door in my head and career I think won't be closed for the foreseeable future.
Excellent product if you're just learning, I'll let you know if it keeps up.

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Blending breathtaking photography with easy-to-use operation, the lightweight and stylish Sony Alpha DSLR-A380L Digital SLR Camera is ideal for step-up digital photographers. The Alpha A380 brings you the freedom of Live View, which lets you compose and shoot photos using a tiltable 2.7" LCD screen. Plus, 14.2 megapixel resolution provides superb image detail, and exceptionally quick AF response helps you capture the perfect moment. Moreover, SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization reduces blur with every Sony, Carl Zeiss lens, and legacy Minolta a-mount lens, while the on-screen Help Guide and Graphic Display help take the complexity out of DSLR photography. The Alpha A380L comes with an 18-55mm standard zoom lens.FEATURES:
2.7"(diag.) Clear Photo LCD Plus featuring Live View with Quick Auto Focus - A large 2.7"(diag.) Clear Photo LCD Plus display features Live View with Quick Auto Focus, which lets you compose and shoot pictures in real-time using the LCD, just as you would with a point-and-shoot camera. In addition, the LCD display tilts up or down for low or high-angle shooting situations, such as capturing a child\'s first steps or shooting over a crowd.
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.
14.2 megapixel resolution for ultra-fine detaill - A 14.2 megapixel APS-size CCD image sensor captures your images in spectacular, high-resolution detail, giving you the freedom to make large prints and tight crops without sacrificing quality.
Lightweight and stylish body - The DSLR-A380 features a stylish, modern design with an intuitive button layo

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Vivitar DF383 Digital TTL Shoe Mount Power Zoom /Swivel /Bounce Auto-Focus Flash for Sony TTL, Guide Number 45m (147') Review

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(More customer reviews)Bit larger than I thought it would be but works well with my sony alpha 300.

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The DF-383 digital power zoom flash gun is innovatively designed for both digital cameras and film cameras with features that are leading photography into the digital era. Advanced technology is used in your flash to control the correct amount of light output. Compatible with Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax or Sony/Minolta cameras (Nikon model pictured).

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Tokina 2880100300M 28-80 + 100-300 Emz ii Camera Lens Kit F/ Konica Minolta Maxxum and Sony Alpha Review

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(More customer reviews)The Tokina 28-80 wasn't as good in quality picture, since I have the one that came with the camera don't bother to use it, the 100-300 lens works great, good quality, for the price is unbelievable, the con is that the color is different than the camera, but at the price dont care about it.


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The Tokina EMZ 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 Autofocus Macro Zoom lens covers the most popular focal length range from wide angle to mid-range telephoto. This versatile zoom has tele-macro capability for a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.3, plus a minimum shooting distance of under 20 inches. Everything from grab shots to portraits to close-ups is possible. With an overall length of 3.2 inches and a weight of under 10 ounces, this lens is perfect for the photographer on the go. It sports a professional silver finish with a large black ribbed rubberized barrel surface and provides an easy to grip area for smooth and positive zoom control. An excellent addition to any outfit. >>> This Tokina EMZ 100-300mm f/5.6-6.7 Autofocus Zoom lens fits and provides full autofocus operation on your camera. Focus on your subject, zoom in tight for detail and catch the unexpected with this Tokina 100-300mm Autofocus Zoom Lens. The focal length range covers most of the desirable longer telephoto settings from 100mm out to a powerful 300mm, which is an excellent focal length range for sports, wildlife, and similar subjects to which you cannot easily get close. A professional silver finish with a large black ribbed rubberized barrel surface provides an easy to grip area for smooth and positive zoom control. >>> This outfit also includes a high-quality SLR camera carrying case by Aosta. This convenient slim design messenger-style gadget bag is large enough to hold a camera and 2 lenses plus accessories. It also features a zippered main compartment, a zippered outside pocket, an outside flap pocket, plus a mesh outside pocket for quick access to your most important accessories. It also features a removable foam divider for keeping your camera and lenses protected from all sides, as well as an adjustable shoulder strap.

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Tamron AF 24-135mm f/3.5-5.6 SP AD Aspherical (IF) Lens for Konica Minolta and Sony Digital SLR Cameras Review

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(More customer reviews)I was warned about buying a lens with such a long zoom range because they are often a compromise in image quality. Not this lens. The clarity and sharpness is amazing. The zoom range is perfect for a walk-around lens. I have used it for landscapes, portraits, street photography and even telephoto shots of wildlife. The minimum focusing distance and 1:3.3 magnification make it a decent macro zoom and great for shooting flowers and other subjects close-up. This lens is on my camera 90% of the time. The only thing that would be better is if it had a constant f/2.8 aperture but then you wouldn't be able to get it at this price.

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SO) 24-135MM F3.5-5.6 F/SONY

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Sony Alpha A100K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 Lens Review

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(More customer reviews)Sony has finally come a full circle, by starting the digital camera, withdrawing from the initial SLR plans and now firmly back. Their first SLR is from the bones of a 20 year MAXXUM/DYNAX line from Konica Minolta. This is the initial camera in the Alpha line called the DSLR-A100, a 10.2 megapixel, three frame per second SLR mostly based on the Konica Minolta MAXXUM 5D. This Sony is between the Canon Rebel 400xti and the Nikon D200 and it compares very favorably to the Nikon D80 although the D80 takes better photos but has no built-in anti-Shake.
Overall I think the Sony is better than the new Canon EOS 400D Digital Rebel XTi. It is an amazingingly good value for your money and might suit your needs perfectly. BUT NONE HAVE BUILT IN ANTI-SHAKE. Only Pentax has the new K100D (which has anti-shake but lower 6MP resolution). All in all the Sony A100 is a winner and would get 5 stars if they fixed the noise issues.
First of all the PROS (Good Things)
1) Sony has used the best aspects of the KM technology including the built-in Anti-Shake mechanism, lens mount, exposure system, and menus, and improved them by its own new CCD sensor, image processing and LCD screens. Out of these, the Anti-Shake is the best feature. Allowing you to get Anti-Shake for every lens. This is one of the only cameras right now in the market after the KM5D and KM7D were taken out. Canon and Nikon have this feature not in the body like the Sony, but in some of the very expensive lenses. Of course this is a cash machine for Canon and Nikon and they charge a premium of between $300-500 to the cost of each lens... nice work if you get it !!! In my view, I think this feature is the best selling point of the camera and if you buy at least 2 or 3 lenses from Sony, you would recover the cost of the camera just like that.
2) The A100's 'Alpha' lens mount is the same as the older Minolta A-type mount, allowing it to work with all of the old Minolta A-Type lenses. Minolta has made some superb lenses over the last 20 years equalling or better than the Nikon or the Canon L series. Some of these you will find used for cheap.3) Although the viewfinder uses a cheaper pentamirror than the ore expensive pentaprism used in the Nikon D80, the A100 viewfinder is still big and bright and looks a lot better. Likewise the 2.5-inch LCD screen (which on SLRs cannot be used for a live preview) is gorgeous with high resolution.
4) The A100 looks and feels excellent and looks vaguely like the Konica Minolta 5D, but the A100 is smoothly contoured. Overall the body has a black finish, except the front grip area which has a durable rubbery grip like the KM, and has a ridge to separate the middle finger from the ring finger for perfect alignment every time.
5) Flash. I have not tried the external flashes. I have heard good things that it appears to be wirelessly and remotely controlled by the A100. I am used to a Canon SLR system, and have always been envious of the free built-in wireless capabilities of the Nikon D200 & D70 control of the Nikon SB800 flash. Hopefully this works similar. I cant wait to test it.Here are the CONS (BAD Things). Take this with a grain of salt. As you can tell by my 4 stars, the positives far outweigh the negatives:
1) Although build quality for the A100 is good, it is somewhat more plasticy that the Canon EOS 30D or Nikon D200. but this is not a big deal.
2) Does not have a small status LCD. The use of the main 2.5inch LCD for all functions as well as current status (rather than the small LCD screen in other models) might impact battery life.
3) The battery despite being an InfoLithium design, does not display the remaining time like all the other Sony cameras
4) Weak external controls. The older Konica Minolta 7D completely blows the A100 in ergonomics. Even the entry Canon rebel 350 and the Nikon D50 are a pleasure to use. I love it when any camera has direct dedicated input buttons for White Balance, ISO or Quality. Although arguably the Sony does have some direct buttons, it is made harder by some on the top dial, some on the back and using the LCD for everything.
Now for the more controversial items
5) NOISE: the A100 is noisier than any of it main cheaper rivals Canon 400xti. Even dirt cheap SLRs like the Canon 350 rebel, Nikon D50, and Pentax DL have exponentially lower noise. Noise on the A100 starts out at a low ISO400 and then goes up from there. Now I expected this.. with higher resolutions, when there is an increased pixel count without increasing the size of the sensor -less surface area for each photosite hence the signal to noise level is worse. However, some have compared the A100 to the Nikon D200 and D80 that uses the same Sony sensor and the noise is much more on the A100. A lot of folks seem to be confused by noise and the Anti-Shake. Anti-shake does not make high ISO redundant. For example, at a party or family gathering. It is important because to prevent motion blur in the normal actions of people, you need a min shutter speed of at least 1/60s. In a room lighted with bulbs or any interior during daytime, the light levels are such that you must push up the sensitivity to 800iso or 1600 (even with a fast lens, and more so with zooms). Thus, if you want good indoors pics without flash for family gatherings, kids. You have to use ISO 800 or even ISO 1600.
6) Dynamic Range Optimizer: I could not see the difference. This maybe more marketing hype. I took dozens of test pictures.
7) Anti dust system: Appears to be more marketing hype. I did not test this extensively.
8) Menus: recycled from the old KM menu system. Hard to use .. not as intutive as the Canon, Nikon or even the other Sonys.
9) Carl Zeiss: I have noticed that so-called prosumers are rabid about this (one more hyped up label to show off to their suburban neighbors). I have heard that the Carl Zeiss lens are only licensed coatings from CZ. Lens are supposedly made in the old KM factories or at Tamron.. I dont know.. these are the rumors circulating over the internet.
Bottom line. If you take most of your pictures outdoors-whats not to like. IT IS A GREAT CAMERA for the price-10.2 MP resolution, built-in anti-shake which works with all attached lenses, 2.5-inch high res LCD screen. No current production camera from Canon or Nikon even comes close. The final result is 10.2 MP digital SLR with built-in anti shake capabilities which work with every lens, an anti-dust system, long life battery, advanced image processing and a nice large LCD monitor. The price and specs are a great deal for about $900, you get a kit with 18-70mm lens. Again, this camera is in a class all to its own. Nothing really compares. COMPARING THE A100 WITH THE 10 MP Canon Rebel 400 Xti. The A100 is shipping now. The A100 is around the same price currently but with a much better 18-70 mm lens, Anti-Shake, and better viewfinder. The A100 is also supposed to have better battery life.
COMPARING THE A100 WITH THE 10 MP Nikon D80. This competition appears to be stiffer: 1) The A100 is available NOW. The D80 will probably be shipping towards the end of the year. 2) The A100 is much cheaper but with Anti-Shake. 3) The Nikon D80 does NOT have built-in shake reduction and anti-dust. (However, I am in favor of the Nikon D80 kit with the new 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S IF-ED DX Nikkor Lens. However, I have heard that it is hard to find this combination. Plus the price is way too expensive. I would wait for this combo price to drop.) Sony has brought some serious competition which is good for all us consumers. However the Nikon D80 with 18-200 lens compared to the A100 with a similar lens will be about $500 or so More..
However if most of your pictures are indoors, at night clubs etc.. consider the new Pentax K100D which also has in-body Anti-Shake, sells for about $650 with 18-55 lens, but has an better ISO performance, but lower resolution at 6 MP.
PLEASE VOTE AND LET ME KNOW IF THIS REVIEW HELPED YOUR PURCHASING DECISION.

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Sony Alpha A100K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 Lens

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Sony 24 -70mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T Zoom Lens for Sony Alpha Digital SLR Cameras Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the best lens that Sony/Zeiss have offered thus far, even more versatile than the Sony SAL-85F14Z 85mm f1.4 Carl Zeiss Planar T Coated Telephoto Lens for Sony Alpha Digital SLR Camera and Sony SAL-135F18Z 135mm f/1.8 Carl Zeiss Sonnar T Telephoto Lens for Sony Alpha Digital SLR Camera, which are incredible lenses. I have compared this Sony/Zeiss 24-70mm f/2.8 lens to the legendary Minolta 28-70mm f/2.8 G lens using the Imatest lens test software. At an aperture of f2.8, the Minolta 28-70 lens at 28mm focal length and the Zeiss 24-70 lens at 24mm focal length are equally sharp in the center, but the Zeiss lens is sharper at the corners. The Zeiss 24-70 lens does exhibit a minor amount of chromatic aberration but to no serious extent. It also exhibits moderate barrel distortion at 24mm, as do its Canon and Nikon 24-70 counterparts. The barrel distortion is more pronounced with a full frame sensor than with a half frame sensor.
Sony and Zeiss have a very useful partnership going, which I hope will result in a greater variety of lenses in the future. Recently, Sony and Zeiss have introduced a Sony SAL1635Z 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA Lens that improves upon the rare and coveted Minolta 17-35mm f3.5 G lens.
Two minor complaints about this lens are the following. First, like the other Sony/Zeiss lenses, it is rather heavy, but I suppose that good glass is heavy. Second, it zooms by elongating externally unlike the Minolta 28-70mm f/2.8 G lens. However, the Canon and Nikon 24-70 lenses elongate in a similar manner, so perhaps this feature is a compromise that one must accept in exchange for sharpness at f2.8.
Reviews of the Sony/Zeiss 24-70 lens may be found at the Photozone and lemondedelaphoto web sites. The latter site is French but web pages may be translated via Google.


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High-performance Carl Zeiss large-aperture zoom. The SAL-2470Z Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar f2.8 24-70mm Zoom Lens is a brilliant all-around performer -- with SSM (Super Sonic wave Motor) design for fast, silent auto-focus, pro-quality Carl Zeiss T coated optics to reduce lens flare, and 17-element design with two aspherical and two ED glass lens elements to minimize distortion and virtually eliminate chromatic aberration. It benefits from the Super SteadyShot image stabilization built into every Sony α system DSLR -- and its wide-angle to medium telephoto range in compact, lightweight design is ideal for a wide range of shooting applications (35mm equivalent: 36-105mm).

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Tamron Autofocus 28-105mm f/4-5.6 (IF) Lens for Sony Konica Minolta SLR Cameras Review

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(More customer reviews)I have purchased two of these lenses (autofocus version) for our Nikon N-70. I dropped the first lens and something came loose. This is a superb lens. I studied the Modern Photography Magazine ratings to select this lens, which was/is the sharpest zoom lens in the 20-120 range. Not even Nikon or Canon can beat this lens for sharpness across the focal range. Spherical Aberration is marginally higher than an average lens with this focal range, so you wouldn't want to shoot professional architecture photos with this lens. Tamron makes a semi-pro lens with an F-2.8 across a similar zoom range, but it is no sharper than this lens.

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Tamron's AF28-105mm f4-f5.6, measuring in at just under three inches and only 10.8 ounces, is conveniently small and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you. This medium telephoto lens is also extremely versatile; it is ideal for intimate close-ups or zooming out to true wide-angle for group shots, tight indoor spaces, and sweeping landscapes. Its internal focusing system, once only available in professional lenses, permits easy handling and practical use of filters. This model is dedicated to Minolta AF SLR cameras.

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Sony Alpha A700K 12.24MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspherical ED Lens Review

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(More customer reviews)NOTES: I still Own this camera in Dec 2010. There are a lot of new cameras with exciting new features. But in my opion this is the LAST GREAT APS format still image DSLRs. And looking at Sony's unfornunate need to copy Nikon with things like cluttering the Shutter Button with a power switch on all new models the A700, A900 (which I have used) and A850 may be the last cameras that fit the hand and quick clean shooting experience. Since I wrote this review Sony did a major Firmware upgrade that improved image quality related to high ISO noise and allows users to show RAW with no noise reduction. On top of that Lightroom 3 fixes the problems Adobe had dealing with Sony RAW files. Both of these upgrades were for me were like getting a new camera. There are moments video would be nice, I would like the improvements in focusing Sony and others have created in the past 3 years. But I have to say.. there are cars with features and classic cars people love to drive.. The A700 is a camera that makes photography a joy and all the new features seem to only clutter that experience so someday I will add a new camera to my gear. I will never "upgrade the A700" I think it as a moment of magic for still photography before Video and more technology transformed the experience forever. There is a reason USED and NEW UNSOLD STOCK have held their price so well. If you own Sony / Minolta lenses this is a great camera to own even though it is one of the last cameras without Live View on LCD etc. If you want a photograpy tool that doesn't get in the way of your art with features.. think about this camera. It will be a classic.
Original Review Soon after Buying A700 in 2007 -----------------
For years I shot Canon SLRs and for a while I moved to Nikon and Canon smaller digicams. When I jumped back to the SLR format in digital I ended up with the Konica-Minolta 5D over the Canon and Nikon cameras in my budget because of great image quality and in camera stabilization which works very well.
I recently upgraded my KM 5D to an A700. WOW!! This is by far the easiest camera I have ever used. Head and shoulders above traditional menus and tiny LCD Icons. The rear LCD shows you all the important settings at one time in a large easy to read format, sometimes with colors to alert you to what might be an unusual setting.
When you need to change anything from Shutter Speed to White Balance you do it right on the settings screen either by pressing one of the several dedicate buttons or using the easy thumb joystick. For shooting I almost never have to go into a menu except to format the memory card.
Auto Focus and Shutter:
It is fast and quiet. The AF has been tested faster than the new Canon in most lighting situations, though lenses on both systems will affect speed.
Both Sony and Now Sigma are coming out with quite focusing lenses that have built in motors so, Sony users will have lots new lens choices.
KEY FEATURES I LIKE:
Stabilization:
The in body stabilization works well With my 18-250 I have pulled off some shots even at 1/10s while at 250mm That is over 5 stops of stabilization, Sony only claims 3.5 stops. This stabilization works on all Sony And Minolta format auto-focus lenses. Some systems like Canon do not offer stabilized lenses in key formats like primes(non zooms) that are used for close-up macro shots or portrait work. It also adds cost and weight to each lens, with this system if you can find a bargain on a lower cost lens or a used lens it is still stabalized.
Example: Minolta made a 70-210 f4 lens often called a "beercan" that is legend in sharpness and image quality. It is often seen used here and on auction sites for $125-$175. It like all Sony compatible lenses becomes stabilized and would be like getting a $600 plus lens for $150.
ISO:
The Sony A700 offers ISO 100-3200 and up to 6400 as "extended ISO" but all ISO ranges are available at all times, no menu settings will enable or disable them like on the Canon 40D. It offers the ISO in 1/3 stop increments, but using the the front control wheel lets you jump a full stop at a time.
Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO):
Sony has several levels of DRO that do what used to take shooting in RAW format and working in tools like Photoshop. It automatically recovers overly bright areas and areas hidden in the shadows so your pictures look more like what your eye can see. Unlike some other cameras that just apply shadow recovery settings to the whole image, Sony has DRO levels that analyze and adjust the image by area to make the effect more natural and keep noise down.
Wireless Flash:
The built in flash is also a wireless trigger for the Sony Flashes and others including the old KM 5600hs and 3600HS, and some Sigma and Metz models. On some systems this is a $150 to $200 add on.
Remote abilities included:
For taking family shots etc. Sony has free wireless remote that lets you take trigger the camera or a 2 second delay then shoot. Plus tons of controls for showing and reviewing your images on a TV. If you hook up the camera to an HDMI TV and to a printer at the same time you can do a family slide show and tell it to print picture from the remote as people ask for copies. It also has remote control software for the computer so you can set it up like a studio and shoot and review images from the attached PC. Great for doing lots of portraits at events without more expensive software or accessories.
It supports both Standard Video and HDMI output so you can see the images on your new HD TV.
Memory Card Support:
Unlike the 40D it supports the new UDMA 300x CF cards and memory stick pro HG so that you can take 25+ cRAW shots a 5 FPS before it needs to pause or an unlimited number of JPGS in any size. You can have both a CF card and Memory stick installed at the same time and switch over when one fills without stopping to open your bag and change memory cards.
Body Seals:
Its not splash proof but Sony has sealed all the doors and controls so dust and stray moisture will not hurt the camera. Some makers like Canon reserve full seals for more expensive cameras.
IT JUST FEELS GOOD IN MY HAND:
It was love at first touch.. a camera designed to fit in the hand.
Unless there is a specific lens or very special accessory that you need on another camera brand, this camera should be #1 or near the top of the list for cameras you consider.
Sony may be new to DSLRs, but they make sensors for lots other DSLRs like Nikon and when they bought the camera business they got most of the designers with years of experience from Minolta. Sony is building cameras for people who love photography and with features for people who like a camera to work with new technology like HD TVs. That makes it a fun camera to own.
I looked at the Canon 30D, 40D, Pentax K10D and Nikon D300 before choosing this camera.
BTW the Nikon D300, would be my second choice, but would cost much more, and still would have limited options on which lenses are stabalized.

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Sony Alpha A700K 12.24MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspherical ED Lens

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