Switching to digital.....

[Inked Photography]

Ever since I have learned photography and taking pics I have shot film. But alas, I am making the leap into the digital age. Not looking for a debate. To me, film is just more vibrant and cleaner. Anyway, with that out of the way. Thankfully buisiness is good. But the cost off film, including processing and time is just too consuming. So I decided to go digital. The camera in mind

Sony Alpha 200

Any thoughts on this camera.....Anyone?

[notsotechie]

If you feel comfortable holding the camera and if it looks easy to learn about all the custom function and all the other gadgets that comes with it. feel free to choose your liking.
If you have not handel it why not visit a camera store that carry the sony alpha 200 and get the feel.
someone may have it so hope fully they wil pipe in soon.
Cheers

[prometeus]

Why a Sony and not a Canon or Nikon do you have Minolta glass?
Just curious and yes I'm looking for a debate.
In december I choose a Pentax k10d and I'm very happy with it, the reasons why I chose it?

1. My budget was 1000 the camera was around 900 euro with 18-55 and 50-200 lenses thus leaving 100 euro for a bag.
2. Having hold a sony alfa 100, nikon d80 ,olympus e510 and a canon 400d I choose the pentax k10d because I have big hands I can adjust all the controls with one hand and with a glove! (black diamonds) on the k10d.
3. Pentax is the only one in its price class that is fully weather/dust sealed and not just some parts like the canon 40d which costs 400 euro more ($600.-) in the netherlands.
   
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4. The reviews were raving at that time the only downside "was" the soft jpg files but that is solved in less than 10 seconds in the menu or shoot RAW.

For me it was a no brainer but for you the following points might be a problem.
Pentax Lenses are not always on stock at your local dealer.
Pentax accessories might not be on stock at your local dealer.

[Not4wood]

I always tell people that no matter what there looking for you must pick up and hold the camera first. Play with it and make sure all the knobs, dials and buttons fit in your hand.

What happens if the camera isn't comfortable for you, after spending your hard earned money you put the camera down in a drawer and never touch it again Just like a good pair of shoes, try it on and walk around a while. If it doesn't fit then try another one....... Also, dont be afraid to ask questions to the salesman. He probably is on comission and would be happy to answer anything you have. Or, if not go somewhere else. Its your money make them work for it LOL

[Inked Photography]

yes, one of the main reason why I am thinking of going with the sony is that I have a minolta now. I use film and the lense I have is 75-200mm. My friend whom I trust works at a camera store and recommended the Sony Aplha 200. But I agree. Firts I want to check it outand see if I like how it fits me. When I was there they had sold out. But, I agree completely. Who knows. I may end up with a cannon. Oh, btw - I love pentax. I think they make the best cameras.

[notsotechie]

To each his/her own opinon.
cheers.

[Inked Photography]

Originally Posted by notsotechie

To each his/her own opinon.
cheers.

I agree. Mostly I was checking if anyone had a sony and just wanted to see how they liked it. But, once I feel that camera and see if it fits then I will go from there.

[Mr. Pickles]

Film is still a good thing. Still a good thing to keep just in case the urge returns...and it will.

Nothing at all wrong with Sony. If it works and feels right, and you get the images you want, it is a great choice. Nobody needs a Canon or Nikon just because the rest of the world says you need one. Sony sensor isn't much different than the latest Nikon one either

Remember all the brand wars between Kodak and Fuji over film? Oh yeah, there weren't any or nobody really cared. You used what you wanted to accomplish what you wanted.

BTW, what camera store? Camera Gallery (71st and Memorial?)

[Latinbob]

Unfortunately you might have a hard time finding one to play with in a camera store, especially in Tulsa. You might also check out the electronics stores, especially Best Buy, to get a "feel" for the Sony DSLRs. When I wanted a Nikon D200, they were the only one in town that had one I could play with.

If you are Minolta shooter, the ergonomics should suit you perfectly. And the A200 has built-in OIS too.

Bob

[Inked Photography]

Thanks Bob I just may do that. I have time cause the camera won't be in for another week.

[W.Smith]

If you're happy with the Sony, go with it. With the acquired Minolta camera and lens technology and standards, and a lens line-up (Minolta's) second only to Canon's, Sony is right up there with the big guys as we speak. And already giving them a run for their money right now.
So expect a Sony dSLR pro model camera next to go head to head with the D3 and the 1Ds MIII! Sony has taken enough time to integrate the Minolta and Konica businesses. Testing the waters with the A100 and A200. Now it's time for Sony to make real waves! It's clear they intend to challenge both Nikon's and Canon's position. And they got the critical mass (read: money) to do it...

The A200 will be an excellent first digital SLR for you. And a great backup body when you get the big-un.

Have fun!

[sean_buerger]

Take a look at the lens prices from Sony though. I found the lens prices for their primes rather high here in Singapore. Nikon lenses are more reasonably priced.

Just my opinion. Sean.