Sony a6000? And which lens? (Page 12): :thumbup:...

tdekany Loc: Oregon

Far North wrote:

Good things to know before I buy. The last thing I want to do is "settle" on something, only to find out that it has shortcomings I may not be content to deal with.

:thumbup:

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

tdekany wrote:

:thumbup:

The way I look at it, the object of an in-depth research is to make sure that the final choice will result in the best value for the money spent, with respect to features, performance, accessories (lenses, in this case), reliability, etc. Nothing would be as disappointing as getting the camera I "thought" would be the whiz-bang, only to find out that it really didn't perform as expected or was fraught with issues. Given that I am just above the level of a casual snap shooter, I am after decent equipment that will give me some versatility, but I really don't need a D810 or other $3000.00++ camera. That would be a waste of money, given that I'd never use what it can do. On the other hand, I don't want to shortchange myself, ending up with something affordable, but wishing it was better than it is. Sheesh! This search is mind-boggling, to say the least. At least I have the collective here to garner good information before I head to the store.

Let me tally up what I've come up with so far. I like a DSLR, and have narrowed that field down to the Nikon D7200. Period. Assuming that is the way I want to go. I also like mirrorless, but Olympia is out, as I'm not all that sure about M4/3 format. I am intrigued with the Fujifilm X-T1, but it is expensive and has a dizzying array of controls, although it seems to be set up with its control similar to the old SLR 35 film cameras used to be. And I believe it's just 16mp. Which brings me to Sony. I was impressed with the A6000 I had, and I shouldn't have sold it, but I did. I wasn't disappointed with what it can do, but the A7 muddies up the water a little bit. I'm more curious about it, as there seems to be little said about the A7 on the Hog, so I don't know how popular that camera is or not. I've been advised that it's a pretty good camera, but it's slow. I don't know if that's a reference to shutter speed, AF speed, or what. Fact remains that I am really more drawn to the A6000, anyway. I just don't want to get that camera and find out that the D7200 outperforms it by far. On the other hand, the A6000 has quite a loyal following, so there must be something about it to attract and keep such a following.

I'm not frustrated, just a bit overwhelmed with what is currently available out there.

le boecere

Far North wrote:

The way I look at it, the object of an in-depth research is to make sure that the final choice will result in the best value for the money spent, with respect to features, performance, accessories (lenses, in this case), reliability, etc. Nothing would be as disappointing as getting the camera I "thought" would be the whiz-bang, only to find out that it really didn't perform as expected or was fraught with issues. Given that I am just above the level of a casual snap shooter, I am after decent equipment that will give me some versatility, but I really don't need a D810 or other $3000.00++ camera. That would be a waste of money, given that I'd never use what it can do. On the other hand, I don't want to shortchange myself, ending up with something affordable, but wishing it was better than it is. Sheesh! This search is mind-boggling, to say the least. At least I have the collective here to garner good information before I head to the store.

Let me tally up what I've come up with so far. I like a DSLR, and have narrowed that field down to the Nikon D7200. Period. Assuming that is the way I want to go. I also like mirrorless, but Olympia is out, as I'm not all that sure about M4/3 format. I am intrigued with the Fujifilm X-T1, but it is expensive and has a dizzying array of controls, although it seems to be set up with its control similar to the old SLR 35 film cameras used to be. And I believe it's just 16mp. Which brings me to Sony. I was impressed with the A6000 I had, and I shouldn't have sold it, but I did. I wasn't disappointed with what it can do, but the A7 muddies up the water a little bit. I'm more curious about it, as there seems to be little said about the A7 on the Hog, so I don't know how popular that camera is or not. I've been advised that it's a pretty good camera, but it's slow. I don't know if that's a reference to shutter speed, AF speed, or what. Fact remains that I am really more drawn to the A6000, anyway. I just don't want to get that camera and find out that the D7200 outperforms it by far. On the other hand, the A6000 has quite a loyal following, so there must be something about it to attract and keep such a following.

I'm not frustrated, just a bit overwhelmed with what is currently available out there.

The way I look at it, the object of an in-depth re... (show quote)

I believe the D7200 will out-perform the a6000 ~ for some photography, under some conditions. And, I believe the A7_ will out-perform the a6000 for some things, and under some conditions, and in some situations.

So, why do I own and shoot the a6000?

Feels better in my hands. Feels better around my neck. Feels better to my checkbook. Most of the lenses that I want are available ~ or will be. Takes images that I'm happy with (I don't shoot indoor sports, and I still don't have a shot published on a billboard). I might not even be able to SEE the diff 'twixt identical images from each camera on my 24" high-res computer screen, or on an 11x14" piece of photo paper.

Greg, I'm wondering if you're ever going to get your questions satisfied, unless you go and fondle all your candidates. "Feel" is a big part of liking and operating a camera (but, you know that).

(I've long had a hankering for the Fuji X100S ~ 'til I went to a show and handled it. That experience + review remarks about its capabilities in low light ~ which is very important to me ~ allowed me to cross it off my list.)

Ray

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

le boecere wrote:

I believe the D7200 will out-perform the a6000 ~ f... (show quote)

I owned an A6000, so I am familiar with it. I've been to Best Buy and played a bit with the A7, but somehow didn't get a good "feel" for it. I think, since it was a display model, it's gotten damaged, as some things didn't work properly, like trying to get a properly exposed scene using the camera in manual mode. I've handled the D7200, so I'm familiar with it, too. Best Buy here doesn't have the Fuji or Olympus mirrorless cameras, so I'm in the dark with them, unless Stewart's Photo in downtown Anchorage has them. I haven't made it there yet. My feeling is, I'm going to have to decide between the Nikon and the A6000. The A7 doesn't particularly turn me one.

Drala2k Loc: Vermont

tdekany wrote:

He already has a good program

My apologies, need to read the post more carefully.

tdekany Loc: Oregon

Drala2k wrote:

My apologies, need to read the post more carefully.

:thumbup:

lev29 Loc: Born and living in MA.

Far North wrote:

Absolutely, regarding "learning." As for the A7 FF camera, before I plunk down my money, I'd just like to know what, if any, advantage it has over the A6000. I'm more curious than anything.

Pardon me, but are you actually referring to the a7 OR its successor, the a7 II? There's quite a difference, including the presence of Image Stabilization, important if you want to do any video or if you suffer from hand tremors.

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

lev29 wrote:

Pardon me, but are you actually referring to the a7 OR its successor, the a7 II? There's quite a difference, including the presence of Image Stabilization, important if you want to do any video or if you suffer from hand tremors.

The A7.

le boecere

Far North wrote:

I owned an A6000, so I am familiar with it. I've ... (show quote)

I looked at the small Nikon DSLR's and the Canon's. For me the "big" DSLR's would be different cameras for a different purpose (rather incomparable). Once I decided on a smaller, lighter weight, more travel friendly camera that would freeze grandkids, leaping dogs, etc., yet keeping the larger sensor, fill in flash, electronic view finder, and fast autofocus, the a6000 got interesting. Yup, two different classes of camera for me. Then I went and handled all the cameras on my list and the decision was confirmed. Half the price of the 71-7200 left me more for lenses, too.

It appears that you've narrowed your choices down to two, so by spring you'll be ready to buy your new camera.

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

le boecere wrote:

I looked at the small Nikon DSLR's and the Canon's... (show quote)

Correct. And it's a fun time researching.

le boecere

Far North wrote:

Correct. And it's a fun time researching.

I think that sometimes the anticipation is more fun than the realization. (but, I will say, the a6000 is the most fun "gadget" I've purchased in years ~ one needs a license to go fishin' ~ no season needed for taking pictures)

Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

le boecere wrote:

I think that sometimes the anticipation is more fun than the realization. (but, I will say, the a6000 is the most fun "gadget" I've purchased in years ~ one needs a license to go fishin' ~ no season needed for taking pictures)

How true, how true!

GrandmaG Loc: Flat Rock, MI

Wingpilot wrote:

I owned an A6000, so I am familiar with it. I've ... (show quote)

I've been following this conversation and for the record, I received the a6000 with a 35 f/1.8 lens and an 18-105 f/4 lens (both Sony OSS) and this combination is awesome!!!!! Both lenses come with a hood and the 18-105 has a power zoom button right on the lens!! I got it from B & H, body only was $398 and it came with an extra Sony battery, the battery charger, an SD card and a cute little bag. I didn't think I wanted the bag so I called B & H to see if they could substitute something else. Long story short, the bag sells for $40 but I would only get $20 credit if I ditched it, so I decided to go with the bag. I also needed advice on a flash unit for this camera and the Nissin i40 was recommended. Neat little flash...turns in any direction, comes in a nice case, has a stand and a diffuser cover. Also, by purchasing the camera, I get FREE pp software designed to work with this camera...Capture One Express (for Sony). If I decide to upgrade to Capture One Pro 9, it is $300, plus they have the subscription plan like Adobe. I am an Adobe subscriber and watched many tutorials and read a couple of books before I was comfortable with Lightroom and I am currently in the same process to learn Photoshop so I really don't know if I need or even WANT to learn another program. However, if you DON'T have the Adobe products, Capture One may just fit the bill for you and it comes with the camera (at least through B & H). As far as the bag is concerned, I'm glad I got it. It will hold the larger lens and the flash unit (in it's case) and other accessories...OR the camera with small lens attached and large lens in the case and the flash case can be hooked to the outside of the case.

Now for my review of the camera. First of all, I love how it feels in my hand and even with the larger lens and flash unit attached, it is not too heavy (but then I am used to the Nikon D7100, too). Secondly, and more important, it takes awesome pictures. You can shoot in RAW or JPEG or RAW + JPEG. There are 2 automatic choices, plus the usual P, S, A, M modes and a nice array of scene modes to choose from. This little camera is more than meets the eye. As far as the EVF...it is awesome!!! I don't know why so many people dissed that type of viewfinder because that is a great feature. Will it replace my DSLR? Maybe, but it is way too soon to decide on that right now. I get awesome pics with my D7100 also. It has so many nice features compared to the D5000 that I gave to my husband. The added features pertain to ease of use mostly because they both take great pictures. I did not want to go to the expense of a full-frame DSLR...that is the only reason that I was considering the Sony a7 II. But now that I have the a6000, I made the right choice because I am already in tune to the crop factor and you can get lighter, less expensive lenses.

Thanks to the folks on this website, I made some smart choices and I am happy with them. I really don't think I will need anything else for this camera except maybe a screen protector and possibly a pancake lens for wide angle, like the 16mm. I wouldn't want to put a longer, heavier lens on this little camera. If I really need more reach, I'll use my 70-200/2.8 on my D7100 or buy a longer lens (maybe a prime like the 300mm or borrow my husband's walk-around, the 18-300). I have no desire for anything longer and heavier. I'm not a birder and I don't shoot sports.

So, there you have it. Hope you make a decision based on this long discussion. There are a lot of great & knowledgeable folks here on the hog. Good luck!!!

le boecere

GrandmaG wrote:

I've been following this conversation and for the record, I received the a6000 with a 35 f/1.8 lens and an 18-105 f/4 lens (both Sony OSS) and this combination is awesome!!!!! Both lenses come with a hood and the 18-105 has a power zoom button right on the lens!! I got it from B & H, body only was $398 and it came with an extra Sony battery, the battery charger, an SD card and a cute little bag. I didn't think I wanted the bag so I called B & H to see if they could substitute something else. Long story short, the bag sells for $40 but I would only get $20 credit if I ditched it, so I decided to go with the bag. I also needed advice on a flash unit for this camera and the Nissin i40 was recommended. Neat little flash...turns in any direction, comes in a nice case, has a stand and a diffuser cover. Also, by purchasing the camera, I get FREE pp software designed to work with this camera...Capture One Express (for Sony). If I decide to upgrade to Capture One Pro 9, it is $300, plus they have the subscription plan like Adobe. I am an Adobe subscriber and watched many tutorials and read a couple of books before I was comfortable with Lightroom and I am currently in the same process to learn Photoshop so I really don't know if I need or even WANT to learn another program. However, if you DON'T have the Adobe products, Capture One may just fit the bill for you and it comes with the camera (at least through B & H). As far as the bag is concerned, I'm glad I got it. It will hold the larger lens and the flash unit (in it's case) and other accessories...OR the camera with small lens attached and large lens in the case and the flash case can be hooked to the outside of the case.

Now for my review of the camera. First of all, I love how it feels in my hand and even with the larger lens and flash unit attached, it is not too heavy (but then I am used to the Nikon D7100, too). Secondly, and more important, it takes awesome pictures. You can shoot in RAW or JPEG or RAW + JPEG. There are 2 automatic choices, plus the usual P, S, A, M modes and a nice array of scene modes to choose from. This little camera is more than meets the eye. As far as the EVF...it is awesome!!! I don't know why so many people dissed that type of viewfinder because that is a great feature. Will it replace my DSLR? Maybe, but it is way too soon to decide on that right now. I get awesome pics with my D7100 also. It has so many nice features compared to the D5000 that I gave to my husband. The added features pertain to ease of use mostly because they both take great pictures. I did not want to go to the expense of a full-frame DSLR...that is the only reason that I was considering the Sony a7 II. But now that I have the a6000, I made the right choice because I am already in tune to the crop factor and you can get lighter, less expensive lenses.

Thanks to the folks on this website, I made some smart choices and I am happy with them. I really don't think I will need anything else for this camera except maybe a screen protector and possibly a pancake lens for wide angle, like the 16mm. I wouldn't want to put a longer, heavier lens on this little camera. If I really need more reach, I'll use my 70-200/2.8 on my D7100 or buy a longer lens (maybe a prime like the 300mm or borrow my husband's walk-around, the 18-300). I have no desire for anything longer and heavier. I'm not a birder and I don't shoot sports.

So, there you have it. Hope you make a decision based on this long discussion. There are a lot of great & knowledgeable folks here on the hog. Good luck!!!

I've been following this conversation and for the ... (show quote)

I cannot imagine a better two-lens setup for the a6000, GG. In fact, I'm thinkin' these will be my next two lenses.

Research your thinkin' on the 16mm. The 20mm will be virtually identical in physical size, and I believe it will be a significantly higher IQ lens for you ~ so if you don't need 16mm (24 equiv) wide, I'll bet you'll be happier with the 20 (30).

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

Good for you Grandma!

One more thing:

To fully and completely learn how to use your camera, I STRONGLY suggest you order the ebook by Gary Friedman on the A6000:

http://friedmanarchives.com/alpha6000/index.htm

Gary Friedman is the BEST owners manual writer in the business. The book on the A6000 explains each and every feature of the camera in great detail using plain, easy to understand English.

It is EXTREMELY well written, and will help you understand what each feature of your camera is... and Friedman does and excellent job of explain when and WHY you should use them.

Best of all, he offers a 2 week satisfaction or your money back guarantee, though you will quickly see that the ebook would be worth twice the price.

Check it out... and congrats! You WILL love that camera. :thumbup: