Just ordered a Sony A230!

Soap · 10-06-2009, 11:14 PM

It's my first DSLR. I tried out a few of the top rated models around the same price range ($500-700) and I liked it the most. Anybody care to be excited with me? Any tips about first-time setup?

**surferdude9375** · 10-06-2009, 11:22 PM

I was really a fan of the Sony DSLRs when I tried them out, something about the body. Only thing that held me back was the ability to have a wide selection of lenses and interchanging them with my 35mm.

Soap · 10-06-2009, 11:44 PM

That's something I looked into, and yeah, it doesn't have the biggest selection...but I'm not likely to buy another lens for a LONG time. I can barely afford this camera! ha. But there are quite a few that cover a big range of mm's. Also, I believe the konica-minolta lenses will fit the Alpha cameras, too.

What really got me into this camera came down to 3 big things:

1. VERY fast autofocus. Especially compared to everything else in the price range
2. Dual card slots for Memory Stick and SD.
3. The feel of the body (ability to hold, keep still/secure etc)

tht00 · 10-12-2009, 12:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SoapbarII

Any tips about first-time setup?

Well, what are you planning on doing with it?

Generally, I'd suggest learning to control the camera manually, probably starting with aperture priority (and exposure compensation) and working down from there. Program/auto modes are nice when you either 1) don't have time to change settings and need a shot, or 2) want to turn your DSLR into an oversized point and shoot camera. Otherwise, dig into the controls and have fun.

Camera bags are a good idea.

Lower ISO is preferable to higher ISO, when possible.

Do you have it yet?

Do you (will you) have a flickr?
Besides showing off photos, I've found it to be a great resource to connect with other photographers, admire their work (something to strive towards), and also to archive the sort of photography you're doing at the time. Hopefully, you'll be able to look back at past stuff and see progress of your style and skills. (Many people use flickr as a photo-dump of all their stuff, but I think their missing the point...)

Do you know what lens you are getting with it?

spyrotheleo · 10-12-2009, 01:53 PM

Congrats on your first dslr! What lens did you order for it?

Soap · 10-15-2009, 12:56 AM

Sorry, I have been busy.

I got it with the 18-55mm Sony SAM lens. I got the camera today and love it. My only complaint is that it's not good for anything above ISO800, but hey, it's an entry level DSLR and I'll have adequate lighting for anything I want to look "professional" anyways. I paid $400 for a $500 camera, and got a great deal.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...7/IMG_0480.jpg

I do, indeed, have a Flickr account. But no photos yet. I'll put em up as soon as I have some work I'm not completely embarrassed of.