marcomarks Loc: Ft. Myers, FL

I've got the Alpha 55 with 18-55 kit lens. I also bought a "brand new old stock" Minolta 28-130 Maxxum lens that was from the last film camera years for $85 at a camera store in Pontiac MI. Below is a picture from a little girl's 1st birthday party last Sunday afternoon using the Minolta auto-focus lens (JPG).

While this isn't an artistic portrait masterpiece you can clearly see the minor wrinkles in the balloon to their right, distinguish the blades of grass behind them, see the pores in their skin, etc. I enjoy that kind of clarity (which can be reduced later if I choose) and the Sony does it for me every time, a tiny bit more-so with the Minolta lens than the kit lens but not by much. I'm sure a higher line Minolta lens or a Sony G series or maybe a Tamron might be even better but I'm very happy so far for what I do.

You'll be surprised at how quickly you'll pick up on the options. It's not as bad as you think. By the way, if you don't use the GPS, turn it off because it eats the battery faster for no good reason.

My idea of acceptable clarity from my Alpha 55

2 Dog Don Loc: Virginia Beach VA

marcomarks, I would recommend getting The David Busch Guide for your camera from Amazon it is well worth the money. I recently bought an A65 and tried to read the "user manual" with little success. On the other hand the Busch guide I found very useful. A little big to tote around but easy to remember. Enjoy the new camera getting one is just like Christmas morning when we were kids!

Anne

Thanks for the info that has been shared. I will be shopping this week. I think I will be going with A77. I travel frequently and the weather resistant aspect interests me. I have spent too many dollars on vacations only be rained out and not able to get many shots.(10 days in Alaska). I loved the pix. It really does showcase what a great product Sony producces.

RaydancePhoto

Had to share this pic. Using the Minolta beercan lens, 70-200 @200 f/8. Only PP was adjusting light.

marcomarks Loc: Ft. Myers, FL

I think you're writing to the wrong poster. I have the David Busch Guide for my A55. I've also had my camera for a year. I think you're trying to contact the author of this thread.

indyDean Loc: Bloomington, IN

Thanks for the Busch tip. I have an A77 on the way (still trying to decide if I should keep it or if it is too much for my first DSLR) and his guides on this camera are highly rated. Probably worth the investment of ~$20!