Thanks for your reply. Ya this is my first SLR and I guess i just have to get used to the bigger camera. As for the flash the pictures are turning out great but i just didnt expect the flash to be so bright, so ive been taking pictures with out the flash. I guess i will just have to get used to everything. :D

Hey everyone,
So, my mom told me about this site since i recently got a Sony A300 DSLR and i had a few concerns, im hoping maybe i could get some answers... :)
So for one, Is it just me or is the shutter sound when you take a picture really loud? Or is that just the way the camera is?
Secondly , i find the flash really bright, so ive been keeping it off , is there a way to tone down the flash or something... Im going on a cruise in October so i want to be able to get pictures of my friends, so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. :)
Thanks

-Lindsey-