Calling all Sony Alpha users! (Part 2)

[Marc]

very new to this lens malarky

It is difficult to start off with. What you need to do is look at what it is you want to take photos of, then look at what sort of focal length you'll need. Next bit is to set your budget.

You have 18-70 covered with your kit lens so stan is probably right, the 35-80 probably isn't going to add much to your range. TBH I would thing the next step would be a telephoto, possibly 70 -300 or maybe 55-200, again this may depend on your budget. The lenses you have asked about make me think you are looking on ebay which indicates your budget is relatively small?

 

[stan the man]

very new to this lens malarky

yeah,it takes some getting used to matt...i would suggest something in the 75-300 range as a second lens(which PAS may be selling soon),and maybe the minolta 50mm F/1.7 prime if you shoot in low light...cheap enough on flea-bay

 

[stan the man]

must learn to type faster..:bang:

 

[Marc]

I also have a Sony 75-300 lying about doing nothing at the moment so may well be selling soon.

 

[skydiver]

And mine!

I think the A900 would suit you a lot better

So what went wrong with the Canon?

Just couldn't seem to get a usable photo, either dark, blurred, colours washed out...just didn't seem to have results anywhere near the quality of the A350

 

[Marc]

I think the A900 would suit you a lot better

You buy me an A900 and you can have my A700!

Just couldn't seem to get a usable photo, either dark, blurred, colours washed out...just didn't seem to have results anywhere near the quality of the A350[/QUOTE]

Could it have been a lens issue? Not that I'm trying to encourage you back to Canon!

 

[mattmo]

It is difficult to start off with. What you need to do is look at what it is you want to take photos of, then look at what sort of focal length you'll need. Next bit is to set your budget.

You have 18-70 covered with your kit lens so stan is probably right, the 35-80 probably isn't going to add much to your range. TBH I would thing the next step would be a telephoto, possibly 70 -300 or maybe 55-200, again this may depend on your budget. The lenses you have asked about make me think you are looking on ebay which indicates your budget is relatively small?

Yup my budget is quite small, really just want something for portraits and sports stuff. There are loads of lenses on ebay, dont know where to start!

 

[Marc]

Yup my budget is quite small, really just want something for portraits and sports stuff. There are loads of lenses on ebay, dont know where to start!

What sort of sports do you want to photograph? Your kit lens has the range for portraits and won't make a bad job of it. My first paid gig was some promo shoots for a band and I used the A100 with kit lens throughout.

I'm guessing that a 70-300 is probably your best bet here. Have a look at this one.

Edit: Oops, looks like you cant link directly to individual pages in ffordes's website. Click on Used Equipment>Minolta/Sony Alpha>AF Lenses, there is a Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 Apo listed there for £60. Ffordes have a great reputation, I have bought from them. Give 'em a call, they'll answwer any questions you have.

 

[mattmo]

What sort of sports do you want to photograph? Your kit lens has the range for portraits and won't make a bad job of it. My first paid gig was some promo shoots for a band and I used the A100 with kit lens throughout.

I'm guessing that a 70-300 is probably your best bet here. Have a look at this one.

Edit: Oops, looks like you cant link directly to individual pages in ffordes's website. Click on Used Equipment>Minolta/Sony Alpha>AF Lenses, there is a Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 Apo listed there for £60. Ffordes have a great reputation, I have bought from them. Give 'em a call, they'll answwer any questions you have.

Thanks for your help.

I think i will give them a bell in a bit.

I was getting a bit over excited about getting my camera and wanting to buy any lens that i saw!

matt

 

[Marc]

No problem, I remember feeling the same way when I got my first SLR, "If it's got glass at both ends, it's the lens for me!"

Oh, and BTW, I've had a play with that Minolta 35-80.................it's cr@p! :thumbsdown:

 

[skydiver]

You buy me an A900 and you can have my A700!

I was thinking more along the lines of 'you buy yourself one for xmas and give me that old A700 before xmas'

Could it have been a lens issue? Not that I'm trying to encourage you back to Canon!

That had crossed my mind 'cos mate is using the same lens on a 5D with similar crap results (see an earlier post) - but two Sigma AF 24-70mm f2.8 EX DG macro zoom len's with similar problems - and on different model cameras? :shrug:

 

[Marc]

I was thinking more along the lines of 'you buy yourself one for xmas and give me that old A700 before xmas'

Let me see if I can answer that one politely.................

That had crossed my mind 'cos mate is using the same lens on a 5D with similar crap results (see an earlier post) - but two Sigma AF 24-70mm f2.8 EX DG macro zoom len's with similar problems - and on different model cameras? :shrug:

Seems unlikely. It is possible that the handling and controls of the Canons just don't suit you personally. One of the reasons that people always advise others to go out feel/play with cameras before choosing.

 

[skydiver]

Seems unlikely. It is possible that the handling and controls of the Canons just don't suit you personally. One of the reasons that people always advise others to go out feel/play with cameras before choosing.

Yeah, that's what I ended up with, 'user error' - never mind, been and tried it...didn't get the t-shirt, but hey-ho, that's life.

Now to concentrate on a more productive note...

Let me see if I can answer that one politely.................

...is that a 'no' then?

 

[Marc]

...is that a 'no' then?

 

[skydiver]

Now look at what you made me do...just had to order a one plus grip from Cameraworld!! - should be here Thursday

Now...Marc, about that old 70-200 f2.8



Stan - the link came in handy, got the grip for £156, cracking price

 

[Marc]

Now...Marc, about that old 70-200 f2.8

Don't go there! :nono: :rules:

 

[ajex]

Hi,

Was looking to buy a flash gun . seeing that Jessops is doing Flashgun cheap for Nikon and Canon but still no sign. for Sony..

I was watching on fleabay

Minolta 4000 AF Flash Flashgun with adaptor for Sony

which went for 46+5.99 = GBP 51.99...

Can anyone comment on this flash??

it was clarified that You have to manually change the settings in the Flash ...

In general pre owned minolta flash looks to be more expensive than new ones for canikon???

Any comments???

cheers

Aj

 

[leaky5]

Hi,
Was looking to buy a flash gun . seeing that Jessops is doing Flashgun cheap for Nikon and Canon but still no sign. for Sony..
I was watching on fleabay
Minolta 4000 AF Flash Flashgun with adaptor for Sony
which went for 46+5.99 = GBP 51.99...
Can anyone comment on this flash??
it was clarified that You have to manually change the settings in the Flash ...
In general pre owned minolta flash looks to be more expensive than new ones for canikon???
Any comments???
cheers
Aj

If you are going to buy an manual flash, you really need to make sure the power level is adjustable. It is difficult to tell from pictures of the back of a 4000 if it is or not. You also should make sure that any adapter has high voltage circuit protection in it, Ebay adds normally state this.
I went this route with a Sunpak manual flash, but the results were inconsistent, so I bit the bullet and bought a new Sony one.

 

[ajex]

Thanks leaky 5...

found this on net
................................

The 4000AF is the top-of-the-line Professional flash designed for the Maxxum 5000, 7000 and 9000. It provides full TTL metering and autofocus LED assist in low light and darkness. It has the capability to flash at 2 fps and works with all Maxxum accessories such as the Control Grip 1000 and off camera cables. With the optional FS-1100 adapter, it will work with xi, si and i series camera bodies as well as the 5D and 7D in manual mode.

G. N. 131 (impressive 131 foot range at ISO 100)

· Adjustable 90 degree bounce.

· Adjustable 180 degree swivel.

· Full TTL metering with Maxxum 7000, 9000.

· Auto zoom flash head – adjusts according to lens focal length, 28mm to 70mm

· X-sync speed 1/250 second; or slower in S-priority.

· Full manual control of power settings.

· Large rear LCD, switchable night illumination.

· Uses 4 AA batteries.

It has six power levels: FULL, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16 and Motor Drive. The Flash head can be rotated 45, 60, 75 and 90 degrees up, right and left for Bounce flash applications.
....................................................................

many thanks for help

Ajex

 

[p1tse]

Hi,

Was looking to buy a flash gun . seeing that Jessops is doing Flashgun cheap for Nikon and Canon but still no sign. for Sony..

I was watching on fleabay

Minolta 4000 AF Flash Flashgun with adaptor for Sony

which went for 46+5.99 = GBP 51.99...

Can anyone comment on this flash??

it was clarified that You have to manually change the settings in the Flash ...

In general pre owned minolta flash looks to be more expensive than new ones for canikon???

Any comments???

cheers

Aj

jacobsdigital has the Sony F42 for sub £130 minus £30 cash back = £100
on cash back form it states F36 too, ut they don't have online, and I just want something cheaper if possible.

having just used a SB400 which is small and basic on my Nikon D40 i'm quite happy for something similar to be honest

 

[Clickawaymedia]

Hi, I'm new here, and own a Sony Alpha 350 with just the 18-70mm kit lens.

Only just got it, but with it not having a pc sync port, what is the best and most inexpensive way of using it with off camera or studio flash? Would the built in wireless work, or would it work from the built-in flash working as a trigger? or would i be best with a hotshoe adapter with pc sync... or should i use wireless radio trigger?

If you suggest wireless radio trigger, what is the most inexpensive way of doing this?

Any advice appreciated.

 

[mattmo]

MY A200 HAS JUST TURNED UP 1 WEEK EARLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Marc]

Hi, I'm new here, and own a Sony Alpha 350 with just the 18-70mm kit lens.

Only just got it, but with it not having a pc sync port, what is the best and most inexpensive way of using it with off camera or studio flash? Would the built in wireless work, or would it work from the built-in flash working as a trigger? or would i be best with a hotshoe adapter with pc sync... or should i use wireless radio trigger?

If you suggest wireless radio trigger, what is the most inexpensive way of doing this?

Any advice appreciated.

Welcome

TBH I've only used studio flash once and that was using the pop up flash as a trigger and it seemed to work very well.

 

[Marc]

MY A200 HAS JUST TURNED UP 1 WEEK EARLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

No opening it until Christmas day though!

 

[mattmo]

OOOPPPPPSSS Too late!

I think I got a bit over excited for a 33 year old!!

Now i need stuff to add to my kit!!

What lens cleaning things would everyone recommend and any other bits and bobs a newbie needs ( i have £150.00 in jessops vouchers burning a hole in my pocket)

Thanks

Matt

 

[Marc]

OOOPPPPPSSS Too late!

I'd never have guessed!

What lens cleaning things would everyone recommend and any other bits and bobs a newbie needs ( i have £150.00 in jessops vouchers burning a hole in my pocket)

A lens cloth and a rocket blower. Can't tell you what to do with the other £140! (Actually, Lenspens are quite good)

 

[mattmo]

do you use a fluid of some kind? some of the kits i am looking at include one.

 

[Marc]

do you use a fluid of some kind? some of the kits i am looking at include one.

Personally I just breathe on it. You may want to ask the question in the Photography or Equipment sections, you'll get a lot more answers..............................and probably a lot more confused!

 

[mattmo]

Think i will just ask the wife for a blower for x-mas......

 

[Marc]

Think i will just ask the wife for a blower for x-mas......

Blimey, I nearly misread that!

 

[mattmo]

He He (sorry should be Ho Ho Ho)

 

[PAS]

get a lenspen & a lenspen sensorklear
rocketblower
lens tissue and cleaning fluid
microfibre cloths or glasses clothes
that should be enough cleaning stuff.

 

[Fodrigal]

Just ordered myself an A350 with the 18-70 kit lens and a 75-300 SAL as well.

I'm really looking forward to getting my hands on it!

I'm brand new to DSLR's so I've got no other equipment, are there any bits and bobs that I will definitely need?

 

[Marc]

Just ordered myself an A350 with the 18-70 kit lens and a 75-300 SAL as well.

I'm really looking forward to getting my hands on it!

I'm brand new to DSLR's so I've got no other equipment, are there any bits and bobs that I will definitely need?

Welcome. You have a camera and a couple of lenses, that's all you need to get started. Don't worry, you'll soon find plenty to fritter away your hard earned on!

For now, a card reader would be a good idea, much quicker and easier than plugging the camera into your computer each time. A lens cloth and rocket blower are always a good idea as well. Most importantly have lots of fun with it, ask plenty of questions on her and don't forget to post your pics!

 

[Fodrigal]

I've got a card reader built into my PC so I should be ok with that.

My only worry now is that I've ordered my camera from PIXmania and I've heard about 50% good feedback and 50% bad

Hopefully I'll be in the 50% good, but I didn't really look around for feedback before I ordered..........

I can't wait to get started!!!!

Thanks

 

[Fodrigal]

Another quick question.

It turns out that the warranty I get with my new a350 will probably only be valid in FRANCE!!!!

How reliable are these cameras? Any advice on how to look after it best (any known weak points etc.)

Alternatively is there anyway I can register my A350 with Sony in the UK?

Cheers

 

[Marc]

Another quick question.

It turns out that the warranty I get with my new a350 will probably only be valid in FRANCE!!!!

How reliable are these cameras? Any advice on how to look after it best (any known weak points etc.)

Alternatively is there anyway I can register my A350 with Sony in the UK?

Cheers

Why do you think the warranty will only be valid in France?

 

[Happy Snapper]

How reliable are these cameras? Any advice on how to look after it best (any known weak points etc

You should of asked this before buying the camera
Ive just got an a350 and I love it so have fun playing

 

[livewire600]

hi
not sure if anybody is looking for a remote for there camera but i got this one from here
and turned out to be alot better than i thought.
works as remote or a wired unit and didnt seem a bad price.
as you can see only took a few days to arrive.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&item=230314399509

might help somone

mark

 

[skydiver]

Well, new toys arrived today [A700+grip] along with the rain, so unable to play...and another manual to read

Dunno what happened to flash, maybe it'll arrive tomorrow.

Still, first impressions make me pleased I decided to stick with Sony