Ok, so I bought a Sony Alpha350

[HypoThesis]

I read this section of myBB, I researched sites, I did review reading...but my dreaded allergy that causes me not to say no to salesmen ended up making me hand over almost 9k for a Sony Alpha350 which came with the 18-70mm and the 55-200mm lenses.

Now on most sites they say the camera is super and is pretty much user friendly for someone moving up from point-and-shoot cameras...but one constant comment I read is that the Sony lenses are super kark. Lots of talk of buying 2nd hand Minolta lenses.

Are they really that bad? I haven't had a chance to test drive it 'properly' yet. I'm off to Sabie for 4 days tomorrow so it should give me ample time to really put it through its paces but I wanted to get your comments on Sony's. Why do you knock them so much? Was I stupid to have bought it?

 

[ToxicBunny]

Dunno if I'd class it as really kark.... but you can buy better glass if you're prepared to spend the money.

and no, you weren't stupid to buy it at all.. Its a damn good camera.

 

[Digilus]

Nicely done Hypo - I have the A100 and the boss has at A700 and his girlfriend has the A350 (we are sony fans) The kit lenses aren't that bad. Sure they are not sure fast F2.8 pieces of glass but still very nice. After about 3 years my 18-70 does rattle a little but that is from an aweful lot of use. Check out my signature links for some examples (these are with the A100 - I bet the 350 will serve you just as well)

 

[HypoThesis]

Thanks guys. Was really worried. I went to MPH last night and the pics I got were pretty decent. I'm still getting the hang of it but so far so good. Will try upload pics from this weekend.

Digilus those pics are stunning...even the ones taken with your phone cam!

 

[DSG GTI]

Check out my signature links for some examples (these are with the A100 - I bet the 350 will serve you just as well)

Nice pics ... Always have and always will be a fan of Sony. The A350 is a great camera and I have every intention of getting one.

 

[marine1]

I have the A100 and A700 and love both, best camera I have ever used

 

[ToxicBunny]

I'm more than likely going to be getting an A700 or A900 soon to become my primary body, with the A200 being a sort of backup of sorts...

Love the camera.. just a pity that it can be so hard to get decent priced lenses in Durban... PhotoWorld are unfortunately v expensive and Whysalls don't seem to know that Sony exist in the SLR space.

 

[Digilus]

Love the camera.. just a pity that it can be so hard to get decent priced lenses in Durban... .

Yeah .. I've also torn out bits of hair trying to get lenses. No one stocks stuff. I've been after a Sigma 24-70 for ages - even Sigma SA doesn't know when they will be bringing any in.

In December I resorted to ordering from BH Photo & Video (a huge shop in new york) - 1 week later I had 2 lenses for cheaper than in SA (including the $100 shipping & vat) - note: lenses don't carry import duties. - might be worth a look Toxic if you are struggling.

 

[ToxicBunny]

I've had a look at BH before.. must go dig a bit more sometime soon I think....

 

[Digilus]

Especially useful if Sigma is having some promotion .. like 15% off .. otherwise it requires some careful calculations to see if it really is cheaper