Sony Alpha A200
Sony Alpha A200
1
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Sony Alpha A200
Editor's Review
Here's what we had to say about the A200 when it was released in Feb. 2008:
Sony's all new A200 dSLR is a less expensive counterpart to the flashy A700. Coming in at around half the price of the A700, you still get a lot of value out of this camera, chopping off a lot of cost without losing much in the way of quality.
Specifications
- 10.2 megapixels
- JPEG and RAW file formats
- Sony Alpha and Minolta A-type lenses
- CCD-Shift Sony Super SteadySHot image stabilization
- ISO 100-3200
- 2.7-inch LCD display
- Compact Flash memory storage
- Release Date: Feb 28, 2008
Shop for A200 Accessories
Sony Alpha A200 Comments & Questions (write your own!)
Need a200 replacement in japan (Gabriel — 05/12/2013)
I broke my a200 lcd screen,does anyone can tell me where i can buy a replacement lcd in japan?
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Ras (10/01/2010)
Which lens is good for sony a200 portraits indoors and out sdie?
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by James DeRuvo (10/01/2010)
I've heard a good 50mm f2 is a good place to start ...
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Ras (10/01/2010)
Thanks
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How to fix Mirror lense through T mount to Alfa 200 (Ajith — 08/31/2010)
I have Alfa 200 and it gives very good pictures by using 70 to 200mm range. I bought T mount for it to use my Centon 500mm mirror lense. It is fixed properly but not function . Do i need some changes in camera?
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How do one take fast moving pictures with A200 like the F1 race? IS there any URL that can tell me more abt this operation in the alpha A200? (sptan — 09/13/2009)
IS there any URL that can tell me more abt this operation in the alpha A200?
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by James DeRuvo (09/15/2009)
Spend a few hours reading your manual. It'll give take you on a tour of the A200 and tell you all you need to know. But it isn't so much a matter of camera, but of technique. There's a technique to shooting action sports. From setting high shutters speeds to burst modes to panning with the action. And practice, practice practice. A good google search on action sports photography or motor sports photography can yield some good tips. Here's one place to start ( picturecorrect.com/photogra... ).
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What are the differences between the Sony A100, the A200,& the A230? (parsonsgol — 09/10/2009)
I have an A100 with 2 zoom lenses. Is there any reason to buy a new camera body?
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by James DeRuvo (09/11/2009)
Not really. Unless there's a specific feature the otherss have that your A100 doesn't that you simply MUST have. I'd say that dot upgrades are more pressing in the point and shoot world than they are with DSLRs.
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H2O (09/11/2009)
these three cameras are very similar, but each has some features that are unique and are not found in the other two cameras.
the A100 has a depth of field preview and settings for High Key and Low Key which the others do not have. A200 has a little better image quality up to ISO 800. the A230 has the fewest number of features, but has lots of in camera help menus and a change from Compact Flash card to SD card. it is a little smaller in size, but the battery has been changed (worse battery performance?).
is it worth spending the money? in my opinion, NO. if you really want an upgrade, wait for the new cameras like the A500 or A550 being lauched in October. they will cost more than the A230, but you will receive more features for the money. BTW, i have an A200 with a bunch of used lenses. i was hopeful that Sony would upgrade the A200 but, sadly, i was very disappointed in the A230. of the new cameras, i am most interested in the A500. hope that is helpful.
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the A100 has a depth of field preview and settings for High Key and Low Key which the others do not have. A200 has a little better image quality up to ISO 800. the A230 has the fewest number of features, but has lots of in camera help menus and a change from Compact Flash card to SD card. it is a little smaller in size, but the battery has been changed (worse battery performance?).
is it worth spending the money? in my opinion, NO. if you really want an upgrade, wait for the new cameras like the A500 or A550 being lauched in October. they will cost more than the A230, but you will receive more features for the money. BTW, i have an A200 with a bunch of used lenses. i was hopeful that Sony would upgrade the A200 but, sadly, i was very disappointed in the A230. of the new cameras, i am most interested in the A500. hope that is helpful.
How can I keep some pictures blocked or in privacy mode inside the camera card? (ari — 08/04/2009)
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by James DeRuvo (08/05/2009)
If you're talking about preventing people from seeing the image, I don't think cameras have that option. So, just get them off the card ASAP. You can protect an image, but I don't think you can actually render it invisible.
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How do i turn the LCD screen on the A200? (nhurd — 07/12/2009)
When I turn my camera on i get the display menu pops up. I can't take a picture through the LCD screen though. I was wonderig how I turn the screen back on.
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by James DeRuvo (07/13/2009)
It'll be in the display menu settings under "live view" or something similar.
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H2O (07/14/2009)
Sorry to have to tell you this, but the A200 does not have Live View capability. However, A300 and A350 both have Live View. .. and the new cameras A330 and A380. There would be a switch beside the viewfinder: the switch closes up the viewfinder when the Live View is selected.
The LCD on the A200 displays photos and shows the functions and menus available in the camera. Unfortunately, Live View is not available in the A200.
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The LCD on the A200 displays photos and shows the functions and menus available in the camera. Unfortunately, Live View is not available in the A200.
H2O (07/15/2009)
getting back to your original question, you turn the LCD screen back on by pressing the DISP button. it's located beside the screen on the left hand side, just under the menu button. you can also turn it off by using the DISP button if you want to save battery power.
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Is the A200 Good for continues hockey photos? (Roger50 — 04/11/2009)
I am looking for a n entry level camera Like the A200 To multi quick time continues photos. A friend has another style of Sony he bought this year and he managed to take over 400 photos in one game. Sad thing was 1/2 were to blury to bother keeping.
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by James DeRuvo (04/15/2009)
Well, that's the thing. You have lighting issues in the hockey rink and you really need to pan and keep ahead of the action - prefocusing and using sports settings to increase your chances of a better image. The reason your friend probably had blurry images is because sports photography is something you need to really practice and use the right settings for. My recommendation is to google sports photography and read up on some tips on how to shoot sports in available light.
The A200 would work, sure. Course, Canon, IMHO, is better choice as is Nikon. But I hear good things about the Alpha line.
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The A200 would work, sure. Course, Canon, IMHO, is better choice as is Nikon. But I hear good things about the Alpha line.
H2O (06/14/2009)
an indoor hockey rink is a lower light situation. you would need to set the camera at a higher ISO, such has 800 to get a faster shutter speed to freeze the action. handholding a camera increases the risk of some camera shake which will contribute to blurry pictures .. so will a zoom lens. (any movement while taking the picture will be magnified by zooming in.) the sports setting might help, or shutter priority @ 125 sec. but sports photography is difficult and requires a lot of practice. in any case, there will aways be some wasted photos .... at least those can be deleted during the intermission to save room on the memory card.
... getting back to your question. the A200 has an advantage in that it is compatable with the Minolta Maxxum lenses. you can save some $ buying them used. the A200 also has image stabilization built into the camera body, which might help reduce the camera shake. a good used lens for sports pictures would be a Minolta Maxxum 70-210 mm F4 (Beercan), but it is a heavy lens to hold up for a long time.
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... getting back to your question. the A200 has an advantage in that it is compatable with the Minolta Maxxum lenses. you can save some $ buying them used. the A200 also has image stabilization built into the camera body, which might help reduce the camera shake. a good used lens for sports pictures would be a Minolta Maxxum 70-210 mm F4 (Beercan), but it is a heavy lens to hold up for a long time.
does the sony a200 digital camera have internal memory? (zamacohen1 — 03/29/2009)
i took pictures at my daughters 10th b-day party and realized when i got home i didn't insert the memory card. are the pictures anywhere in the camera?
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by James DeRuvo (04/01/2009)
Unfortunately, few, if any SLRs have internal memory and the specs don't mention anything on board. I fear you may have inadvertently shot dry.
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Buying a floor model A200 (kvoigt33 — 03/15/2009)
I found a floor model A200 for $300 marked down from 600. The problem I saw was it has dust that shows in the view finder. It looks like someone wiped the mirrors inside while changing lenses. It does not show up on the photos or lcd screen. Is buying a floor model a good idea? This is my first digital slr. I have always used a Nicon EM 35mm.
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by James DeRuvo (03/18/2009)
It can be, but you have to know going in that the floor model was handled, and mishandled by a bunch of people. It may have been dropped, it was certainly left on for a while on and off. So it'll have a lot of time on it. But then again, it'll also have a full warranty.
My recommendation would be to check with Sony for a refurbished unit. You may be able to get a similar deal and it'll have been looked over, cleaned, and serviced and still have a full warranty. Even if it's another $100, it's a safer bet, IMHO.
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My recommendation would be to check with Sony for a refurbished unit. You may be able to get a similar deal and it'll have been looked over, cleaned, and serviced and still have a full warranty. Even if it's another $100, it's a safer bet, IMHO.
H2O (06/14/2009)
ask about the warranty ... if it comes with a one year warranty, it's probably fine. i purchased one that is open box from Henry's Camera in Toronto. it was probably returned by a customer and the store couldn't sell it at full price. i've used it for 10 months now and haven't had any problems. but i would talk to a service tech about the mirror or even suggest to the sales person that you purchase it if they were to clean up the mirror. in any case, it's worth your while to buy a CF memory card to try it out in the store- take a few photos and view them on a computer or even have a couple prints made from the card. just to be sure.
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I have an A200 Sony and just bought a 75-300mm lense for it. Do I need more flash for this in darker places? (jsbcmr6 — 02/21/2009)
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Aditya D (02/23/2009)
It really depends on the size of your darker places. There's actually a pretty good flash built in to the camera, but if you're going distances greater than 10 feet (which you will with the 75-300mm) I'd definitely recommend investing in one, because with a larger zoom your built-in flash won't cover the distance.
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Aditya D (02/23/2009)
Oh by the way, here's a list of the current flashes: sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/st... . You could also probably find some older ones on craigslist or ebay. The 56AM and the 58AM are my favorites, but you can get by with anything in the 40 series as well.
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H2O (02/23/2009)
if i were you, i would try learning more about taking pictures in lower light. i'm not sure that buying a new flash is really the answer to your question. the lens covers a lot of distance, as you zoom out towards 300mm and a flash probably won't cover the same distance as your 300mm lens will. so try turning up the ISO to 400 or 800 or more, turn on the steady shot to reduce camera shake and use a faster speed like 125 or 250, if the camera's metering will allow it using shutter priority. you might find that you can get the results you are looking for without buying a flash. if the pictures are under exposed, you can try using RAW setting instead of JPEG and use the Sony software to brighten the images on the computer. gotta love digital for the ability to fix images, but there are a lot of things to learn. hang in there.
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Aditya D (02/23/2009)
Honestly, I've seen both the A200 and the 75-300mm lens in action, and if you try and turn the ISO up past 200, you'll start getting an incredible amount of noise. And if the pictures are underexposed software can't really do a ton, it can adjust the brightness slightly in either direction, but it can't work miracles. The range with the 58AM flash may not cover the entire distance that the lens can zoom to, but it will provide required additional light to take a photograph. I do agree that learning ways to take photos in lower light situations is handy, but I think with this camera and lens combination, you will definitely need the flash.
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jsbcmr6 (02/24/2009)
Thanks so much for your input. I will try some of these suggestions.
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H2O (02/24/2009)
i would agree that flash can be useful, however, there are times when flash is inappropriate or even forbidden. for example, weddings and parties are ok for using flash. however, indoor sports, school plays, recitals and concerts would not allow flash photography. so one should still have a back up plan for dealing with low light situations , or for those time when the lens is zoomed out past the range of flash. since we are discussing a 75 - 300 mm, we should take the time to cover all of those bases.
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bravo3099 (03/19/2009)
Where do u purchase a alternate usb connector for this The fuji usb fx 10 at the lowest price
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bravo3099 (03/19/2009)
THe usb connector that connects where you would charge an ipod because it comes withe two connectors I lost the one that connects into the computer. I'd like to know where to buy them at.
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Why did the A200 receive a higher rating than the A300 series? (jld63 — 01/01/2009)
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by James DeRuvo (01/06/2009)
Well the A300 is still fairly new. As such, always consider the rating of a new camera (and a very old one) to be rather skewed. Once it's been out awhile, the true rating begins to assert itself. For a more accurate picture, take a look at the user reviews. Toss out the highs and lows and you can get a good idea how well the camera works in real conditions. I'd also look at sites like digitalcamerainfo.com and dcreserouce.com (and here, of course) to see what the editor reviews have to say.
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H2O (02/14/2009)
There is one review of the A200 which says its pictures are usable up to ISO 800. The same reviewer rated the A350 as usable up to ISO 400. My guess is that the ISO of the A300 is similar to that of the A350. Both cameras have live view, but the 350 has more megapixels. The A200 does not have live view.
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by James DeRuvo (02/14/2009)
That's not a very positive review. ISO 400 is rather standard for night time or indoor photos. I would also expect that ISOs of 800 would also be usable. But a DSLR should also be able to make usable photos at higher ISOs. The fact that the reviewer pointed out that the best you can do is ISO 400 and 800 may be good for a point and shoot, but for a DSLR, that's a bad sign of a poor performing DSLR.
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H2O (02/23/2009)
there was also a concern about the LCD. once it's folded up to the camera body, it is a little bulky. a reviewer found it got in the way of looking through the viewfinder. they also found the viewfinder was a bit smaller than they liked. anyway, you can read the reviews of people who bought the camera at DP review. search for Sony under the cameradatabase and scroll down to the A300. you can also see another review under cameralab.com
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i have an a200, and the image in the viewfinder is "chopped off" in the actual saved image - about 10% - is this normal? (tmsteffen13 — 01/01/2009)
the lens is the standard lens, but the problem persists and is even more apparent with a fisheye attachment. the issue appears to be asymetrical
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by James DeRuvo (01/06/2009)
well if you're using a fish eye, you're probably experiencing some "barreling," which would be normal of extending the wide angle past the useful focal size of the shutter.
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tmsteffen13 (01/09/2009)
I understand the concept of barreling, but the point is that I can see the full image in the viewfinder, but when the print / image is viewed, that is where the "chopping off" occurs. Further, the problem is that I lose the bottom 10% of the image, regardless of the lens.
Is the camera defective?
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Is the camera defective?
by James DeRuvo (01/09/2009)
Well, it sounds like it could be a servicing issue, but it could also be a corrupted firmware. You can try resetting the camera or even checking Sony's site for a firmware update. Absent that, I would say you need to send it in for repair.
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Image Chopped off (Brian — 03/06/2010)
I have the same problem with my a200. Image is not complete at the bottom, but it has more space at the top. But not only that, sometimes it happens at the sides too, it's not complete at the left, but has more space at the right. I've read the sensor is out of alignment, so it need be sent to repair. I hope not, my camera is new and I'm satisfied with it, but this problem is a really annoying issue.
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I have a Monolta XG-M. Will my many lenses fit the A200? (mfmat822 — 12/19/2008)
I also have a Celestron 8inch scope that I treasure and want a digital camera to use with it.
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Brenda Paro (12/21/2008)
Hi Mike,
I'm going to direct you to a similar question for your response - the XG-M has the same "M" lens mount discussed in this response:
digitalcamera-hq.com/digita...
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I'm going to direct you to a similar question for your response - the XG-M has the same "M" lens mount discussed in this response:
digitalcamera-hq.com/digita...
Taking photos (DSLRNovice — 12/14/2008)
I used to use a Canon standard SLR a few years back (until I switched to compact digital for conveinience) so understand the basics of SLRs, however I have just purchased the Sony A200 (bargain at clearance centre, hence no demo) and found instructions a bit vague to understand, maybe I have been away from SLRs too long.
I thought that in addition to viewfinder maybe there was to take pics via LCD screen as with compact digital cameras but it seems not! all I get is display of information, also wondered why they supply a viewfinder cover? my point being that if you cover up the viewfinder how do you frame the subject you wish to photograph?
Can someone please enlighten me as I am not sure if this is what DSLRs are supposed to do or if mine is faulty, i have tried to find reviews etc without luck but did see a video review from ? what digital camera which helped but did not explain my problem.
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I thought that in addition to viewfinder maybe there was to take pics via LCD screen as with compact digital cameras but it seems not! all I get is display of information, also wondered why they supply a viewfinder cover? my point being that if you cover up the viewfinder how do you frame the subject you wish to photograph?
Can someone please enlighten me as I am not sure if this is what DSLRs are supposed to do or if mine is faulty, i have tried to find reviews etc without luck but did see a video review from ? what digital camera which helped but did not explain my problem.
camera? (12/15/2008)
Yes, most DSLR cameras do not let you take picks via the LCD (unless it is a Live View DSLR like the Canon XSi). Not sure about the viewfinder cover, I think that's just for when you're not using the camera, to protect it.
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fantasmic_sleepwalker (01/14/2009)
Some new DSLRs do have live view, whereby the image can be framed using the LCD...the A200 however does not have such a function. To be honest, it s not something I personally expect in an SLR: it seems a bit incontiguous with the Single Lens Reflex aspect of photography, but if that IS something you find necessary--Sony's A350 does have it.
The cover for the viewfinder is there for a couple of reasons, as said before, it helps to protect the viewfinder; but more importantly it is used alongside a tripod (when the image has been framed and the eye is no longer covering the viewfinder)...by using the cover, no excess light can enter the system from behind and mess with the exposure.
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The cover for the viewfinder is there for a couple of reasons, as said before, it helps to protect the viewfinder; but more importantly it is used alongside a tripod (when the image has been framed and the eye is no longer covering the viewfinder)...by using the cover, no excess light can enter the system from behind and mess with the exposure.
H2O (07/15/2009)
live view seems like a good idea when you're taking pictures at unusual angles, over your head, at hip level, low level on a tripod. however, a DSLR with a telephoto lens requires a better handhold, one on the lens, the other on the camera. just don't see the usefulness of live view in that situation. something to consider.
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how much is the memory storage capacity? (shantaveer25 — 12/11/2008)
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camera? (12/12/2008)
That depends on what kind of card you buy for it.
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by James DeRuvo (12/15/2008)
According to the specs - CompactFlash memory card, 2GB or larger recommended. I wouldn't go higher than say 4GB though. Reason being, insurance. Any memory card can fail or become corrupted. And when you're on vacation the last thing you want is to lose the opportunity to take pictures until you can recover that media card with a software utility. If your card goes bad, swapping another one for it at that moment is of advantage so you can keep taking pics. Then, later when you're in front of your PC, you can use a file recovery utility to get back your pictures and recover your card.
Better to spend the extra coin on speed, rather than capacity.
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Better to spend the extra coin on speed, rather than capacity.
Which lens to buy for the best basketball pictures? (kg7559 — 12/09/2008)
I have the 70-200 f2.8 which is great for the shots at each end of court but I want to be able to shoot on the sidelines and close to the basket and get quality shots.
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H2O (12/10/2008)
Hi Kathy,
You have a good lense already for taking photos indoors with the F2.8. The lense has a focal length of about 105 mm to 300 mm with the A200 sensor (conversion of 1.5X). If you want something with a longer focal length and is still portable, you could try a lense with a maximum of 300 mm which is the equivalent of a 450 mm focal length. But it might not be as fast as your F2.8. A lot of lenses are F3.5 or F4.0, so you'll have to shop around. The alternative is to resize and crop your photos on the computer using a program such Photoshop Elements 6 or 7. It might loose some pixels, but the image quality should be good enough for printing 4 x 6 prints.
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You have a good lense already for taking photos indoors with the F2.8. The lense has a focal length of about 105 mm to 300 mm with the A200 sensor (conversion of 1.5X). If you want something with a longer focal length and is still portable, you could try a lense with a maximum of 300 mm which is the equivalent of a 450 mm focal length. But it might not be as fast as your F2.8. A lot of lenses are F3.5 or F4.0, so you'll have to shop around. The alternative is to resize and crop your photos on the computer using a program such Photoshop Elements 6 or 7. It might loose some pixels, but the image quality should be good enough for printing 4 x 6 prints.
Larry (03/22/2009)
I would start with the concept of cropping with Photoshop to get more zoom. With this camera you'll still have plenty of pixels left for a 5X7 print even if you cropped 30-40%.
I think your bigger factor with indoor basketball shots is getting enough light. Moving from 2.8 to 4.0 with the longer telephoto would be quite a drastic decrease in available light. Is there some way to "try before you buy"?
It's March Madness just now so this is a very pertinent issue. More comments are needed.
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I think your bigger factor with indoor basketball shots is getting enough light. Moving from 2.8 to 4.0 with the longer telephoto would be quite a drastic decrease in available light. Is there some way to "try before you buy"?
It's March Madness just now so this is a very pertinent issue. More comments are needed.
SonyPhotographer (05/11/2009)
There are basically three things you can do here:
1, buy the 300 mm f/2.8 G. This is the kind of lens pro sports photographers use. It has a couple of limitations though. You can't zoom with it, it's very big and it's hugely expensive as it'll cost you around $6.000. That's more than 20 times a cheap tele zoom
2, buy a longer zoom. Sony offers three tele-zooms longer than your 70-200G. The 75-300 is a cheap tele zoom. The 70-300G is a higher quality lens , which is more expensive and a little bigger than the 75-300. The 70-400G has better IQ than the 75-300 and a longer range than both, but is bigger and more expensive than the others. The 18-250 offers little extra focal range over your current lens, and is much slower. The 14x zoom means compromises in IQ were inevitable. On the positive side, it has an incredible focal range, is quite affordable and not that big. They are all much slower lenses (5.6 at the tele end, 6.3 for the 18-250), so you have to quadruple the iso to use the same shutter speeds. None of these are as big or expensive as the 300mm.
3, crop. You obviously lose resolution, but when using higher iso detail is also lost. This is the cheapest, lowest noise option. Using a quarter of the picture means effectively doubling the focal length. The image then has 2.6 mp, which should be enough for small prints.
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1, buy the 300 mm f/2.8 G. This is the kind of lens pro sports photographers use. It has a couple of limitations though. You can't zoom with it, it's very big and it's hugely expensive as it'll cost you around $6.000. That's more than 20 times a cheap tele zoom
2, buy a longer zoom. Sony offers three tele-zooms longer than your 70-200G. The 75-300 is a cheap tele zoom. The 70-300G is a higher quality lens , which is more expensive and a little bigger than the 75-300. The 70-400G has better IQ than the 75-300 and a longer range than both, but is bigger and more expensive than the others. The 18-250 offers little extra focal range over your current lens, and is much slower. The 14x zoom means compromises in IQ were inevitable. On the positive side, it has an incredible focal range, is quite affordable and not that big. They are all much slower lenses (5.6 at the tele end, 6.3 for the 18-250), so you have to quadruple the iso to use the same shutter speeds. None of these are as big or expensive as the 300mm.
3, crop. You obviously lose resolution, but when using higher iso detail is also lost. This is the cheapest, lowest noise option. Using a quarter of the picture means effectively doubling the focal length. The image then has 2.6 mp, which should be enough for small prints.
SonyPhotographer (05/11/2009)
What I forgot to mention, and could be an interesting option too, is that with the 70-200G you can use teleconverters. They multiply the focal length of your lens. They are available with either a factor 1.4 or 2. This makes the lens one or two stops slower, depending on which one you choose. Effectively, a 70-200 f/2.8 becomes a 98-280 f/4 or a 140-280 f/5.6. This is probably a smarter thing to do than buying a new tele zoom, since it's cheaper but still faster.
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my A200, with 75-300mm lense,can't find right setting for pics. of b-ball game without a blur? (hankw85 — 12/05/2008)
also with the 18-70 mm lense , without the flash on the lighting is good in the pic. but the players are just a blur . I just need advice on what setting I need to go with .
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H2O (12/10/2008)
Hi Hank,
You can try using the Shutter Priority Mode. You would select a fast shutter speed such as 1/250 and the camera would set the lense opening automatically. You'll have to try different shutter speeds to see what works in the light conditions. You'll need to adjust the ISO to a higher number to get the exposure for the faster shutter speed. An ISO might be 400, 800, 1600 or even 3200. I'd try either 400 or 800 first to reduce graininess in the image. It will require trying different combinations of shutter speed and ISO to find the best exposure. And, remember to turn on the SuperSteady Shot to reduce any camera movement.
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You can try using the Shutter Priority Mode. You would select a fast shutter speed such as 1/250 and the camera would set the lense opening automatically. You'll have to try different shutter speeds to see what works in the light conditions. You'll need to adjust the ISO to a higher number to get the exposure for the faster shutter speed. An ISO might be 400, 800, 1600 or even 3200. I'd try either 400 or 800 first to reduce graininess in the image. It will require trying different combinations of shutter speed and ISO to find the best exposure. And, remember to turn on the SuperSteady Shot to reduce any camera movement.
by James DeRuvo (12/12/2008)
But a tripod will always work better. Also practice pre-focusing and panning with the action. Doing these things by habit will greatly improve your chances of getting a good action shot. You also may want to consider taking a sports photography course ( betterphoto.com/courseOverv... ).
Here's also a great treatise ( robgoodlatte.com/2008/02/08... ) on basketball photography which may help. Among other tips, it advises to in general, shoot manual. Then, you’ll want to keep the aperture low—2.8 for cross-court telephoto shots, and between 2.8 and 4.0 for close-court shots. You also need to keep a fast shutter speed to freeze the action—at least 1/200, preferably 1/300 or faster. That'll also push you to higher ISOs for faster recording times.
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Here's also a great treatise ( robgoodlatte.com/2008/02/08... ) on basketball photography which may help. Among other tips, it advises to in general, shoot manual. Then, you’ll want to keep the aperture low—2.8 for cross-court telephoto shots, and between 2.8 and 4.0 for close-court shots. You also need to keep a fast shutter speed to freeze the action—at least 1/200, preferably 1/300 or faster. That'll also push you to higher ISOs for faster recording times.
Brenda Paro (12/13/2008)
Both good responses above. Keep in mind too that your lens may just not be fast enough to handle what you are trying to do. I believe the 18-70mm Sony lens goes down to f/3, though, so as James said, set the aperture low and keep it there.
reply to this comment
Animal photography (Luke002 — 12/02/2008)
Gday,
I am interested in the A200 and would like to know if it is any good for animal/nature photography and in particular birds.
Thanks,
Luke.
reply to this comment
I am interested in the A200 and would like to know if it is any good for animal/nature photography and in particular birds.
Thanks,
Luke.
camera? (12/09/2008)
I think the A200 would do you very well for animal or nature photography, as it has an array of manual controls that would give you a lot of options when setting up shots.
reply to this comment
H2O (12/10/2008)
It can also use Camera RAW or JPEG for taking the photos. Camera RAW is more work in terms of processing the images in the software but it captures more detail than JPEG and allows you make more corrections/edits to the images. And, you need to purchase a lense with a longer focal length for wildlife photography. If you shop around, you might find a package deal that comes with the camera and two lenses - 18 to 70 and a 55 to 200 mm. 18 to 70 is good for wide angle shots and for taking people pictures. 55 to 200 is good for sports and animals. however, a lense with 300 mm would be more powerful and would require an additional purchase.
reply to this comment
does dis a-200 camera hav optical zoom? (nitinomatic — 11/09/2008)
if so,then how much optical zoom capacity does this have?
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (11/10/2008)
All DSLRs are optical zooms. The Zoom capacity is determined by the lens you place on it. "x" zoom capacity is a point and shoot concept as they have fixed lenses. DSLRs have lenses which you can change. So you can go from say, 18-200mm or beyond. Or, use a fixed lens like a 105mm portrait.
reply to this comment
H2O (06/14/2009)
the camera comes with lens that is 18-70 mm. this about a 3x optical zoom. you can change that by purchasing additional lenses. by the way, this camera has a cropped sensor which increases the optical zoom, which increases every lens by 1.5. so that means a 100 mm is increased by 1.5, making the zoom equal to 150mm. (it happens with all the lenses automatically.) so that is about a 5X optical zoom. so you need to consider purchasing lenses into your decision ... but that is true with every DSLR. and the cropped sensor is common with budget DSLRs, Sony, Canon, etc.
reply to this comment
Minolta Lens Sony bodyu (Bruce24 — 11/03/2008)
My 35mm minolta died.I have many lenses and was told they have the same mount as the sony. Do they? And will they work on a Sony digital body. The lenses are not auto=focus
reply to this comment
camera? (11/05/2008)
Yes, Sony supports Minolta lenses, in general. You should check your specific models to be sure.
reply to this comment
H2O (06/14/2009)
i know that Maxxum lenses work on my A200 .... however, these are auto focus lenses. .... by the way, Sony has a list of compatable lenses on their website. ... if that doesn't help, a trip to a camera store with lenses would help answer your question.
reply to this comment
Will manual Minolta SRT 101 lens work with A200 (gmixedup — 08/14/2008)
I have Minolta SRT 101 with manual lenses:
MC ROKKAR PF and MC Tele ROKKOR QF.
Will they work with A200, A100 or any Sony
DSLR if I use them manually?
reply to this comment
MC ROKKAR PF and MC Tele ROKKOR QF.
Will they work with A200, A100 or any Sony
DSLR if I use them manually?
bukit97 (08/17/2008)
You will need <a href="cgi.ebay.com/Minolta-MD-MC-... adapter</a> to connect your MC lens to A200 or A100, and you will have to unlock the camera shutter before the setup works.
You probably will get it right if you manually focus first and stop down the aperture next to enable correct metering.
reply to this comment
You probably will get it right if you manually focus first and stop down the aperture next to enable correct metering.
gmixedup (08/18/2008)
Thanks bukit97 !! Now I know it's possible. I'll give it
a try. I'd hate to lose the old lenses even though
they're 35 years old. Thanks again.
reply to this comment
a try. I'd hate to lose the old lenses even though
they're 35 years old. Thanks again.
by James DeRuvo (08/19/2008)
Course, if it doesn't, George, there's always eBay ...
reply to this comment
gmixedup (08/19/2008)
Thanks, James, for the...uh...tip. Easy to see why you
have 4 times as many points as bukit97 ;) Seriously though,
your suggestion is something to consider. Thanks.
reply to this comment
have 4 times as many points as bukit97 ;) Seriously though,
your suggestion is something to consider. Thanks.
by James DeRuvo (08/20/2008)
Just reminding you of the option, George. These days, why futz with adapters when you can just sell what you don't need and get what you do? With adapters, there's a tradeoff of light loss and clarity issues. Why bother? All I'm saying. Good luck.
And you'd be amazed at how much I've learned from fellow members like bukit ...
reply to this comment
And you'd be amazed at how much I've learned from fellow members like bukit ...
bukit97 (08/20/2008)
George,
A lot of people ,without any points at all, can tell you the same answer.
It's a matter of spending some time browsing the net.
Like you, I still keep many of my old SLRs and lenses.
I would like to use the lenses once in a while, particularly the 500 mm Canon mirror telephoto lens and one or two fish eye lens.
However, what people, and the net, can't tell is whether it is worthwhile buying a new digital camera, such as A200 and going back to the old ways of taking pictures manually with 35 year old lenses.
Perhaps you can tell us the answer after you have tried it.
reply to this comment
A lot of people ,without any points at all, can tell you the same answer.
It's a matter of spending some time browsing the net.
Like you, I still keep many of my old SLRs and lenses.
I would like to use the lenses once in a while, particularly the 500 mm Canon mirror telephoto lens and one or two fish eye lens.
However, what people, and the net, can't tell is whether it is worthwhile buying a new digital camera, such as A200 and going back to the old ways of taking pictures manually with 35 year old lenses.
Perhaps you can tell us the answer after you have tried it.
by James DeRuvo (08/20/2008)
I think alot of it depends on if the DSLR you're looking at has the legacy support to use the old lenses. This is the strength of the Nikon system, IMHO.
reply to this comment
gmixedup (08/21/2008)
James,
What you said makes perfectly good sense, and the loss of light
and clarity issues are factors I didn't consider. A packrat like me
just hates to depart with seemingly high quality beautiful lenses,
but I may do that if I'm not satisfied after trying the adapter technique.
Sorry about the lame attempt at humor concerning points in my
last comments, especially because your suggestions where both
serious and helpful.
And bukit 97,
Your point is well taken concerning buying a new digital camera and
then using the old manual ways of taking pictures. But after taking a few
thousand slides the old ways, it's hard to adapt to some of the so-called
advances in technology. Currently I use a digital camcorder that takes
3.1 MP stills, and much of the time I use it in manual mode setting the iris,
shutter, white balance and even focus manually. But after I've tried the
new DSLR using the manual lenses with adapter, I'll be happy to tell
you if it's all worthwhile. If not, I'll only be out the cost of an adapter.
In the meantime, thanks to you both.
reply to this comment
What you said makes perfectly good sense, and the loss of light
and clarity issues are factors I didn't consider. A packrat like me
just hates to depart with seemingly high quality beautiful lenses,
but I may do that if I'm not satisfied after trying the adapter technique.
Sorry about the lame attempt at humor concerning points in my
last comments, especially because your suggestions where both
serious and helpful.
And bukit 97,
Your point is well taken concerning buying a new digital camera and
then using the old manual ways of taking pictures. But after taking a few
thousand slides the old ways, it's hard to adapt to some of the so-called
advances in technology. Currently I use a digital camcorder that takes
3.1 MP stills, and much of the time I use it in manual mode setting the iris,
shutter, white balance and even focus manually. But after I've tried the
new DSLR using the manual lenses with adapter, I'll be happy to tell
you if it's all worthwhile. If not, I'll only be out the cost of an adapter.
In the meantime, thanks to you both.
BILL (12/05/2008)
NOVICE HERE JUST BOUGHT A MINOLTA SRT 101 WITH 3 LENSES IT HAS A TELEPHOTO LENS ON IT NOW AND I DO NOT KNOW HOW TO CHANGE IT. CAN ANY ONE HELP . I PUSHED THE BUTTON ON THE LOWER FRONT IN BUT IT WILL NOT COME OFF.
reply to this comment
gmixedup (12/05/2008)
Bill..."NOVICE HERE JUST BOUGHT A MINOLTA SRT 101 WITH 3 LENSES ......"
My Minolta SRT 101 is ancient - 1970-ish - but it might work the same.
Facing the front of the camera, there's a little round lever on the body to
the upper right of the lens. Push the lever downward and rotate the lens
counterclockwise about 70 degrees until the red dot on the lens aligns
with the red dot on the body, then pull the lens out. I believe it's called a
bayonet mount.
reply to this comment
My Minolta SRT 101 is ancient - 1970-ish - but it might work the same.
Facing the front of the camera, there's a little round lever on the body to
the upper right of the lens. Push the lever downward and rotate the lens
counterclockwise about 70 degrees until the red dot on the lens aligns
with the red dot on the body, then pull the lens out. I believe it's called a
bayonet mount.
BILL (12/06/2008)
GEORGE THANKS IT WORKED PERFECTLY
reply to this comment
gmixedup (12/06/2008)
Bill,
Glad it worked. Now I have a question. If you -- or anyone -- takes 35mm
slides with your SLR film camera, where do you get your film? And who develops
slides now, or other 35mm film for that matter? I'm getting a Sony DSLR A200
or A350, but am keeping my old Minolta because lenses will fit the Sony digital
camera with an adaptor -- I'm told. My flat-bed scanner copies slides to the
computer with very high resolution and I'd like to compare pictures.
reply to this comment
Glad it worked. Now I have a question. If you -- or anyone -- takes 35mm
slides with your SLR film camera, where do you get your film? And who develops
slides now, or other 35mm film for that matter? I'm getting a Sony DSLR A200
or A350, but am keeping my old Minolta because lenses will fit the Sony digital
camera with an adaptor -- I'm told. My flat-bed scanner copies slides to the
computer with very high resolution and I'd like to compare pictures.
H2O (06/14/2009)
probably the best approach is to take a couple of your MC lenses into the store and ask if you can try it. maybe the store will have an adapter you can use while in the store. ... i recently surfed for used lenses for my A200 and was told by a service tech that MC lenses are not compatable. so a word to the wise, try it in the store to be sure it actually works!
reply to this comment
does it make vedios? (khalidosman — 06/05/2008)
does a200 take picture only or it has vedio function as many digital cameras do?
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (06/11/2008)
Khalid,
This camera does not take video. Most dSLR cameras do not come with this function. While some of the newer, basic dSLR's do, the more advanced ones do not. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
This camera does not take video. Most dSLR cameras do not come with this function. While some of the newer, basic dSLR's do, the more advanced ones do not. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
LCD Monitor (scrapmom — 05/11/2008)
Can I take photos w/ my new Sony A200 using the LCD as a viewfinder or is it exclusively for playback of images only?
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (05/12/2008)
Kim,
The LCD is just for the playback of images and working with the menu items on the camera. It is not available for use as a viewfinder.
Andrew
reply to this comment
The LCD is just for the playback of images and working with the menu items on the camera. It is not available for use as a viewfinder.
Andrew
H2O (09/03/2008)
Hello Kim,
fyi
what you are referring to is called Live View. Sony has two cameras in the Alpha series which have Live View: Alpha 300 and 350.
reply to this comment
fyi
what you are referring to is called Live View. Sony has two cameras in the Alpha series which have Live View: Alpha 300 and 350.
can it take pictures by motion detection (bllall — 05/02/2008)
I'll like to take movies pictures like, who else has been there while I am out of the room.
reply to this comment
bllall (05/02/2008)
The main point to that question which I forget to clearly state is that will the camera takes picture by 'motion detection' alone.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (05/22/2008)
The camera alone won't be enough. You'd need a remote that is activated by the tripping of an infra red beam. I don't think that SONY makes that. I could be wrong about it, but didn't find anything related either.
reply to this comment
bukit97 (08/17/2008)
James is right. You need a separate infra-red setups to trigger the camera if you want it that way.
Even then, there might be further issues like how to keep the camera from auto shut off after a short period of in-activities.
It might be simpler if you buy a <a href="peppersprayinc.com/motion_d... detection camera </a> costing a fraction of A200 but does the job very well.
reply to this comment
Even then, there might be further issues like how to keep the camera from auto shut off after a short period of in-activities.
It might be simpler if you buy a <a href="peppersprayinc.com/motion_d... detection camera </a> costing a fraction of A200 but does the job very well.
by James DeRuvo (08/19/2008)
Now there's an idea I hadn't thought off. Nice out of the box, bukit!
reply to this comment
in your opion what's the better camera? The A200 or the Nikon D40 (evab2036 — 04/29/2008)
I'm traveling to S. Africa and need to purchase an inexpensive camera thats easy to use and not to pricey.
$700 max
reply to this comment
$700 max
dimka448 (04/30/2008)
They are both excellent entry level cameras. you need to physically hold them to see which one is feels better in your hands. I think Nikon is a little smaller then Sony, but has only 6MP. Sony has 10MP
reply to this comment
H2O (12/10/2008)
I would shop around for a package deal. You might find a deal that comes with a camera and two lenses. In the case of the Nikon, the best deal is for lenses that are VR - vibration reduction. Nikon builds it into the lense. Sony has SuperSteady Shot which is built into the camera itself. Any lense with a Sony mount would benefit from the SuperSteady Shot.
reply to this comment
Will Minolta Maxxum 4 af lens work on this camera? (scottlaw — 04/14/2008)
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (04/15/2008)
Yes. they have the same lens mount since Sony inherited Minolta's camera technology. In fact, just about any Alpha minolta lens should work.
reply to this comment
scottlaw (04/15/2008)
Thank you
reply to this comment
Ruby (06/17/2008)
what other brands of lens will work for this camera.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (06/18/2008)
Sigma and Tokina are making really good lenses right now and are getting high marks as third party lens manufacturers. The key is making sure you get the right lens mount. SIGMA is where I'd be looking.
reply to this comment
Rob (06/26/2008)
What is the difference between "alpha" and "bayonet" lens?
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (06/26/2008)
With the exception of ta "T" mount lens, most are bayonet style lenses. Alpha lens mounts are a kind of bayonet lens. For more information about lens mounts, go here ( en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lens_... ).
reply to this comment
H2O (06/14/2009)
Hi,
it's important to keep in mind that Alpha refers to the Sony Product. there are Minolta Lenses that will fit the Alpha cameras but they have to be a compatable bayonet mount. for example, the Maxxum Lenses from Minolta are compatable with Sony Alpha. however, please be aware that lenses that you might purchase for the A200 may not be compatable with A900, should you want to make the upgrade.
FYI, there is no such thing as a Sony Minolta Lens! these are two sevperate companies. Minolta did not make their lenses with Sony in mind. there are a limited number of Minolta lense that are compatable with Sony, so be careful of making those assumptions!
reply to this comment
it's important to keep in mind that Alpha refers to the Sony Product. there are Minolta Lenses that will fit the Alpha cameras but they have to be a compatable bayonet mount. for example, the Maxxum Lenses from Minolta are compatable with Sony Alpha. however, please be aware that lenses that you might purchase for the A200 may not be compatable with A900, should you want to make the upgrade.
FYI, there is no such thing as a Sony Minolta Lens! these are two sevperate companies. Minolta did not make their lenses with Sony in mind. there are a limited number of Minolta lense that are compatable with Sony, so be careful of making those assumptions!
I want to buy a solid entry level SLR camera, but I am not sure whether the Sony A200, Canon XTi, or Nikon D40X would be the best choice. (johnfriedman537 — 04/07/2008)
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (04/09/2008)
I think it comes down to the lenses. Canon and Nikon make the best in the world hands down. Then there's Sony's obsession with proprietary technologies. That alone is enough to get me to say "no thanks." But lastly, Sony inherited Minolta's camera business. Sure, they've improved it and the A200 gets stellar marks. But I was never a fan of those Konica/Minolta cameras. And they're have to improve it ALOT to get me to look past the high sticker for a SONY nameplate and that proprietary technology obsession.
My preference ... CANON first, Nikon second. (I think Canon's focus a tad faster).
reply to this comment
My preference ... CANON first, Nikon second. (I think Canon's focus a tad faster).
dimka448 (04/23/2008)
Disagree. Sony image stabilization is in the body, Canon or Nikon is in the lenses, so they are more expensive. And you must get the lens with image stabilization, otherwise you will have to live without that. Also why do you think that Sony does not have good lens? Check their webside for selection. Also Tamron and sigma make excellent lenses for Sony and as you correctly pointed out Konica/Minolta lens selection will work with Sony Alpha cameras and all will benefit from image stabilization!
We are talking an entry level DSLR here and I think Sony is on par or even better then Canon/Nikon. Don' forget Live View (A300 and A350) that a lot of P&S people will like (implemented MUCH better then in canon since it uses 2 mirrors instead of one so you get no delay what so ever and can be enabled with one click instead of going into menu each time)
Maybe they are not there for professionals (but I heard A900 24MP about to get released) but I think they are better camera then Canon and Nikon have to offer for amateurs.
reply to this comment
We are talking an entry level DSLR here and I think Sony is on par or even better then Canon/Nikon. Don' forget Live View (A300 and A350) that a lot of P&S people will like (implemented MUCH better then in canon since it uses 2 mirrors instead of one so you get no delay what so ever and can be enabled with one click instead of going into menu each time)
Maybe they are not there for professionals (but I heard A900 24MP about to get released) but I think they are better camera then Canon and Nikon have to offer for amateurs.
by James DeRuvo (04/23/2008)
Well, you are free to do so and I do agree that nowadays Tamron and Sigma are serious contenders and warrant lens consideration. But photography was around for over a century and people got along just fine with a steady hand and NO IS. My point was that if you're considering a camera, my preference is CANON first, Nikon second because of the GLASS.
reply to this comment
dimka448 (04/23/2008)
Steady hand and no IS... (how about also no Auto focus? It was invented about 10-15 years ago;-)) hmmm, i do not think it is a good advise for someone who is looking to buy their first DSLR. (I think that was the question?)
If you are a professional then maybe - glass is more important then the body (even though Carl Zeiss glass is second behind Leica and considered better then Canon and Nikon glass).
reply to this comment
If you are a professional then maybe - glass is more important then the body (even though Carl Zeiss glass is second behind Leica and considered better then Canon and Nikon glass).
by James DeRuvo (04/25/2008)
You're welcome to that opinion. I happen to believe that a serious photo hobbyist should develop a firm hand, rather than rely on IS to carry the water. Because when it fails to handle the load, all you have left is your experience.
In addition, Sony's are based on the Minolta platform with some noticable improvements. But if that foundation didn't work for two of the oldest camera companies in the biz (Konica being the other) ... well, I'm happy to stick with the better other two ....
Ass for Zeiss vs. Canon/Nikon lenses. Again, we'll have to agree to disagree on that. Especially when you look at the price sticker.
reply to this comment
In addition, Sony's are based on the Minolta platform with some noticable improvements. But if that foundation didn't work for two of the oldest camera companies in the biz (Konica being the other) ... well, I'm happy to stick with the better other two ....
Ass for Zeiss vs. Canon/Nikon lenses. Again, we'll have to agree to disagree on that. Especially when you look at the price sticker.
H2O (09/03/2008)
Hello John,
i recently began my search for purchasing my next digital camera. to make a long story short, i narrowed the search to a DSLR, at the the entry level. after, looking at various reviews, i decided on the Sony Alpha 200. my decision came down to optical stabilization, to noise levels and to lenses. in a nutshell, Alpha 200 has optical stabilization built into the camera body. so that means, if you were to purchase a lense, new or used, you just need to make sure it's has a Sony mount. by comparison, the D40 does not have stabilization, so it has to be manufactured into the lense. if you spend some time looking at Nikon Lenses, you'll see a huge selection of lenses. you'll have to take care in selecting the right lense for features like stabilization and auto focus. the auto focus has to be compatible with the D40. it's a similar situation with Canon, so make sure that the camera has the features you want and that the lenses are compatible. basically, i was on a budget and found a used lense at an affordable price, which has a Sony mount, so it was a no brain-er. i also checked reviews and saw that the noise levels are quite good up to ISO 800. but i am finding that the images are quite good even up to ISO 3200. i typically have 4 x 6 prints made, so it's really not an issue. hope you find that helpful.
reply to this comment
i recently began my search for purchasing my next digital camera. to make a long story short, i narrowed the search to a DSLR, at the the entry level. after, looking at various reviews, i decided on the Sony Alpha 200. my decision came down to optical stabilization, to noise levels and to lenses. in a nutshell, Alpha 200 has optical stabilization built into the camera body. so that means, if you were to purchase a lense, new or used, you just need to make sure it's has a Sony mount. by comparison, the D40 does not have stabilization, so it has to be manufactured into the lense. if you spend some time looking at Nikon Lenses, you'll see a huge selection of lenses. you'll have to take care in selecting the right lense for features like stabilization and auto focus. the auto focus has to be compatible with the D40. it's a similar situation with Canon, so make sure that the camera has the features you want and that the lenses are compatible. basically, i was on a budget and found a used lense at an affordable price, which has a Sony mount, so it was a no brain-er. i also checked reviews and saw that the noise levels are quite good up to ISO 800. but i am finding that the images are quite good even up to ISO 3200. i typically have 4 x 6 prints made, so it's really not an issue. hope you find that helpful.
Caroline (11/10/2008)
Bills response was very helpful, I have just purchased a Sony alpha DSLR-A200W 10.2 MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-70 mm 75-300 mm Lenses. Haven't gotten it yet but looking forward to learning how to use it. Price was good and glad to have both of the lenses.
Thanks again for the post
reply to this comment
Thanks again for the post
My camera model was bought in Japan. Unfortunately, its menu is Japanese and I could not switch to English. Is firmware of this model updated? (karacomp — 03/20/2008)
reply to this comment
Aditya D (03/20/2008)
There are no firmware updates yet, but the camera is still relatively new comparatively. You could try reinstalling all of the software on the camera to get the menus in English, but this is a long and difficult process, that only the most experienced camera engineers can perform, so I think you might have to stick with the Japanese menus.
reply to this comment
karacomp (03/21/2008)
Thank you very much for your answer.
Hope Sony releases new firmware update soon. For the time being, I think it is safe to guess through Japanese menus.
reply to this comment
Hope Sony releases new firmware update soon. For the time being, I think it is safe to guess through Japanese menus.
by James DeRuvo (03/21/2008)
Id' talk to SONY USA about this directly. Reinstallation of the current US firmware is something they can easily do on site at an authorized Sony repair facility.
reply to this comment
karacomp (03/22/2008)
@ James,
Your news is precious. I am in Vietnam. Let me contact to them for upgrading.
Hope services in Vietnam could be the same as US.
reply to this comment
Your news is precious. I am in Vietnam. Let me contact to them for upgrading.
Hope services in Vietnam could be the same as US.
by James DeRuvo (03/22/2008)
My apologies, Toan. Sometimes I forget this can be an international forum.
reply to this comment
gnembonne (04/22/2008)
this is only the problem, that you don't know how to change the language or that there is no other languages but japanese in the camera at all?
reply to this comment
karacomp (04/22/2008)
I have compared the current menu system with the English one (provided on some sites). The option to change the language does not exist.
So, I think that there is no language to change other than Japanese.
@James,
Sony Vietnam could not fulfill my request since they take care only the model sold in Vietnam. I have got acquainted with Japanese menu. Good news.
reply to this comment
So, I think that there is no language to change other than Japanese.
@James,
Sony Vietnam could not fulfill my request since they take care only the model sold in Vietnam. I have got acquainted with Japanese menu. Good news.
gnembonne (04/22/2008)
but do you think changing firmware if the update came will solve the problem?
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (04/22/2008)
I think that a firmware update to change this feature is unlikely if you can't download the firmware from another location like SONY USA that has English or another SONY country website that has what you're looking for. HOWEVER, if electronics companies do listen to requests for future features in their products. So, if there's enough requests for multi-language support down the line, who knows.
reply to this comment
gnembonne (04/22/2008)
i could have download it if there is a new firmware like version 1.01. Cut currently, the product is new and there is no update for it and SonyUS dont want to share firmware 1.00 (probably because they want to sell their own cameras :/ ).
The question is there as follows: If there is an update for the firmware available (and will likely to be sometimes in the future) does the installing english version change the menu languages or not? what do you think? (i.e. is the menu a part of the firmware in your opinion). They always make firmware available if it is newer, updated version.
Toan,
but you were right, the menu is quite simple and most of the functions have their own controls on the body, so it is worth sparing couple hundred bucks less in japan :)
reply to this comment
The question is there as follows: If there is an update for the firmware available (and will likely to be sometimes in the future) does the installing english version change the menu languages or not? what do you think? (i.e. is the menu a part of the firmware in your opinion). They always make firmware available if it is newer, updated version.
Toan,
but you were right, the menu is quite simple and most of the functions have their own controls on the body, so it is worth sparing couple hundred bucks less in japan :)
by James DeRuvo (04/22/2008)
Are you telling me that SONY said they wouldn't send you a download link to the firmware? I'd call again and call again until you get a sympathetic tech who will send it to you. However, you need to understand the risk you take. Doing so will probably void your warranty and could perhaps brick your camera.
reply to this comment
gnembonne (04/22/2008)
Hi guys,
I contacted canadian sony support and fortunately and unfortunately, i talked to a person that knows the stuff. She explained that the cameras made in japan for japanese are different (they have different electronics inside) so changing the language means changing the 'chipset' not just firmware. sony 'international' warranty also means different things - usually even if you are in Hanoi, you have to call Tokyo and send the camera there to fix it. It may cause problems.
I will buy mine for more, but without problems, i suppose.
reply to this comment
I contacted canadian sony support and fortunately and unfortunately, i talked to a person that knows the stuff. She explained that the cameras made in japan for japanese are different (they have different electronics inside) so changing the language means changing the 'chipset' not just firmware. sony 'international' warranty also means different things - usually even if you are in Hanoi, you have to call Tokyo and send the camera there to fix it. It may cause problems.
I will buy mine for more, but without problems, i suppose.
karacomp (04/23/2008)
@ gnembonne,
Thanks a lot for your information. My curiosity now is clear. Even if it is the same product name, Sony sells the local model to Japan only and international model at the others.
I am not so sure about the difference b/w local (Japanese) model and international one. I would call the local (Japanese) model is for patient users only :-).
Good luck for your new model. May I suggest you to aim with Carl Zeis lens? You would spend more but the quality is good.
@ James,
You are right for the idea of risk when I update the firmware. Maybe tech gurus would like to do it but normal users learn how to accept it. It is easier to remember some Japanese character now.
reply to this comment
Thanks a lot for your information. My curiosity now is clear. Even if it is the same product name, Sony sells the local model to Japan only and international model at the others.
I am not so sure about the difference b/w local (Japanese) model and international one. I would call the local (Japanese) model is for patient users only :-).
Good luck for your new model. May I suggest you to aim with Carl Zeis lens? You would spend more but the quality is good.
@ James,
You are right for the idea of risk when I update the firmware. Maybe tech gurus would like to do it but normal users learn how to accept it. It is easier to remember some Japanese character now.
gnembonne (04/23/2008)
i got this mail from japanese sony:
------------------------
We have two model of alpha 350 camera in Japan. One is a Japanese
domestic model and the another is an overseas model.
Our domestic model alpha 350 can display only Japanese menu and the
warranty is valid only in Japan for one year (the warranty is not
valid in overseas).
However, Sony Overseas Model alpha 350 has has English (multilingual)
LCD display (cannot display in Japanese). It is covered by world wide
warranty valid in the 46 countries within one year from the date of
purchase.
Sony Overseas Model can be purchased through authorized Sony Tourist
shops. Please refer to the following URL. Hope it will be helpful
for you.
< Sony Overseas Models DSLR-A350K(JE) >
ecat.sony.co.jp/tourist/DSL... Shop List >
sony.jp/products/overseas/c... of alpha 350 (Japanese domestic model and overseas model)
correspond to the power supply and the voltage all over the world, but
please prepare the conversion plug of the outlet depending on an area.
Thank you for your understanding. Your continual attention to Sony
products would be highly appreciated.
Sincerely yours,
Sony Customer Service(Japan) Inc.,
SCSJ
---------------------------------------
and i checked prices - english 'oveseas' version is 30 kY more expensive. They can take care about themselves ;)
And Toan: sure, do not try to installl english firmware because you might not be able to turn it on again.
reply to this comment
------------------------
We have two model of alpha 350 camera in Japan. One is a Japanese
domestic model and the another is an overseas model.
Our domestic model alpha 350 can display only Japanese menu and the
warranty is valid only in Japan for one year (the warranty is not
valid in overseas).
However, Sony Overseas Model alpha 350 has has English (multilingual)
LCD display (cannot display in Japanese). It is covered by world wide
warranty valid in the 46 countries within one year from the date of
purchase.
Sony Overseas Model can be purchased through authorized Sony Tourist
shops. Please refer to the following URL. Hope it will be helpful
for you.
< Sony Overseas Models DSLR-A350K(JE) >
ecat.sony.co.jp/tourist/DSL... Shop List >
sony.jp/products/overseas/c... of alpha 350 (Japanese domestic model and overseas model)
correspond to the power supply and the voltage all over the world, but
please prepare the conversion plug of the outlet depending on an area.
Thank you for your understanding. Your continual attention to Sony
products would be highly appreciated.
Sincerely yours,
Sony Customer Service(Japan) Inc.,
SCSJ
---------------------------------------
and i checked prices - english 'oveseas' version is 30 kY more expensive. They can take care about themselves ;)
And Toan: sure, do not try to installl english firmware because you might not be able to turn it on again.
gnembonne (04/23/2008)
and CZ lens is the only method for getting 14 MPix from the matress :)
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (04/25/2008)
That's true with other electronics as well. There are gadgets in Japan that never see the light of day across the pond. So it doesn't surprise me that Japan would have a different design to the same model. It's probably superior though.
reply to this comment
How is the image quality of the jpegs? (kost311 — 03/02/2008)
I'm reading a lot of good things about the image quality of the jpegs on this camera ex:
trustedreviews.com/digital-... anyone comment? I need to upgrade my old 5D soon for a trip, it finally broke completely ;/
I'm debating between "jumping ship" completely to go to Nikon...or to possibly stick it out with Sony. I Don't care for raw, purely a jpeg shooter.
Insight appreciated.
reply to this comment
trustedreviews.com/digital-... anyone comment? I need to upgrade my old 5D soon for a trip, it finally broke completely ;/
I'm debating between "jumping ship" completely to go to Nikon...or to possibly stick it out with Sony. I Don't care for raw, purely a jpeg shooter.
Insight appreciated.
Andrew Skinner (03/08/2008)
Kal,
With a 10.2 MP resolution, you should get very crips photos with this camera. Remember, as you push your ISO setting higher, the grainier the photos you'll get. It will perform better in lower lighted situations at higher ISO's though.
Jumping to a Nikon would work too. If you're interested in a dSLR, the Nikon and Canon brands are terrific. Lenses can get expensive though.
Andrew
reply to this comment
With a 10.2 MP resolution, you should get very crips photos with this camera. Remember, as you push your ISO setting higher, the grainier the photos you'll get. It will perform better in lower lighted situations at higher ISO's though.
Jumping to a Nikon would work too. If you're interested in a dSLR, the Nikon and Canon brands are terrific. Lenses can get expensive though.
Andrew
jimr-pdx (04/10/2008)
I tried this camera along with several Olympi at a harshly-lit Ritz camera store. The Oly e410 and e510 did not do well with the strong contrast, while the a200 (and an older Oly e500) did very well. Shooting wide-angle at f/3.5 showed soft and dim corners, as stated in a few reviews - so if you push the lens to extremes you could be disappointed with the 18-70 kit lens. I've printed a few dozen shots from all the cameras (including Nikons) - for stabilized shots out of the box plus the D-range optimizer (and cool features like SLR-quality 16:9 & rotating LCD info), I'm going with the a200. Nikons definitely came in with good shots, I preferred them to the Olys; too bad, I really wanted to like the e510 as much as the reviewers.
reply to this comment
Unit63x (07/03/2008)
I am very impressed with the results I'm getting with my A200. But even more impressed after I bought a better lens than came with it (hint hint). The low end Sony lenses are O.K. for general shooting, but some of the details are lost at the extreme ends.
A fair amount of purple fringing on the 75-300 zoom. I recently bought a 35-135 Sigma and the difference is very noticable.
Noise is a minor issue with the A200 below ISO 800.
reply to this comment
A fair amount of purple fringing on the 75-300 zoom. I recently bought a 35-135 Sigma and the difference is very noticable.
Noise is a minor issue with the A200 below ISO 800.
H2O (09/03/2008)
hello Kal,
i am in the same situation as you are: i have little desire to shoot in RAW. i purchased the Alpha 200 and have been playing around with it the last couple of weeks. i have shot everything in JPEG, and have shot a lot of test shots in available low light. there is some noise in the higher ISO range, but it shouldn't be a problem for making 4 X 6 prints. if noise is concern, you can purchase a download called Noise Ninja. they offer a version specifically for JPEG at a reasonable price. i have used it on the test shots and it works really well. in addition, i have found that the 200 has good white balance on auto - you don't really need to use a custom WB for indoors. it has a lot of good features, so it's very versatile. and it is a budget, entry level DSLR. the kit lense is ok, but you might want to add to that.
reply to this comment
i am in the same situation as you are: i have little desire to shoot in RAW. i purchased the Alpha 200 and have been playing around with it the last couple of weeks. i have shot everything in JPEG, and have shot a lot of test shots in available low light. there is some noise in the higher ISO range, but it shouldn't be a problem for making 4 X 6 prints. if noise is concern, you can purchase a download called Noise Ninja. they offer a version specifically for JPEG at a reasonable price. i have used it on the test shots and it works really well. in addition, i have found that the 200 has good white balance on auto - you don't really need to use a custom WB for indoors. it has a lot of good features, so it's very versatile. and it is a budget, entry level DSLR. the kit lense is ok, but you might want to add to that.
Sony Alpha A200 Reviews
Sony Alpha A200 Reviews by Digital Camera-HQ Users
- 5.0 out of 5
Love it so far!!
(Miles Moran — 08/21/2009)
Used to have a Nikon D40. Sold that & started missing having a DSLR so bought A200. Only had it on auto so far but very pleased with photos even with the standard kit lens 18-70.
The high tech. review sites say this cam prob. has the same sensor as the Nikon D60. Which means same sensor as D80 &
D200. With the right lens the A200 is as good as any of the 10mp cameras made by Canon Nikon etc.
- 5.0 out of 5
sony a200
(k.mccombs — 07/30/2009)
Love it! Finally got away from point and click. Great for beginners simple dials, but still has options to be creative. Only drawback is not viewing picture in screen. Battery life is very long. Lasts for hours!
- 4.0 out of 5
Excellent result
(Hubert — 04/10/2009)
User friendly for beginner, solid result, affordable !!!
- 4.0 out of 5
Good, solid results; easy to use; affordable; compatible used lenses
(Bill — 02/25/2009)
i've owned and used film SLRs in the past but this is my first DSLR. typically, my photography involves room light (low light) , some sports, some nature and as little use of flash as possible. during my search for a suitable camera, i found myself trying the Olympus 410 and the Sony A200. obviously, budget was a factor in buying a camera. i also wanted a good lens, but found that both Canon and Nikon were totally confusing in trying to match up used lenses with models and with stablization,... totally frustrating. in the end the Sony A200 was my choice. The camera is fairly small, the menus and buttons are easily to use and understand, and the viewfinder is fairly large. the A200 also received good reviews and an award for budget category—for value for money, white balance settings, useable ISO up to 800 with noise reductions, built in stablization and for it's battery life. it's also compatible with some used lenses ... again a buget concern. i picked up two used Sigma lenses, 28-300mm F3.5-6.3 and 28-105mm F2.8-4. i don't really have any issues with this camera: i didn't rate it is as perfect because it is a budget camera afterall and i didn't want anyone to think it could compete with the top of the line cameras. So am i happy with my decision? Definately.
- 5.0 out of 5
Sony Alpha 200
(Steve — 02/18/2009)
Walked into the local camera store, frustrated by my P-A-S camera's inability to handle normal life, much less anything approaching activity. I have a 1st generation Minolta Maxxum 7000 with 2 nice lenses, and I thought digital had rendered it useless. I had pretty much decided on the Nikon D40, but the salesman brought out a Pentax and Sony that were comparable to the D40. First thing I noticed was the higher (10.2 vs 6.1) MP on the Alpha 200. Like some others I already had a comfortable feeling with the Sony name, and with it's ease of use features the D40 was losing ground. But when I mentioned the old Minolta the salesman did the absolute right thing for me. He was impartial until he found out I had Minolta lenses already, and he sold me on the value of the Sony and the viability of my old (1985-ish) lenses. So I bought the camera and set off to capture my daughter's volleyball action. This is the part where I say my P-A-S camera was a joke. Even with no flash inside of the adequately lit gym I could zoom in and take crystal clear photos just by changing to the sports setting on the camera. I spent hours taking hundreds of photos( money on film) learning how to use the Maxxum 7000, and I learned how to get the most out of that camera. Immagine doing the same thing with the Alpha 200 and simply hitting delete until you have it figured out. I have taken about 100 photos in the standard settings and could be happy for the rest of my life right there. 500.00 is only a little more than some P-A-S cameras that will never come close to the Sony 200. Even for the rank amature or parent looking for a camera to capture memories, with this camera memories are in the bag!
- 5.0 out of 5
Sony dslrA200
(hjs — 01/11/2009)
Got this as a xmas gift ! I absolutely love it. It takes great winter pics.....wildlife....and nightime....I am having a blast experimenting with it! Learn new things every day,
- 5.0 out of 5
Easy to shoot
(Terry — 08/25/2008)
I love this camera, it's as close to point an shoot as a camera gets.
- 5.0 out of 5
A200
(Alex Shairp — 07/09/2008)
As an introduction for me into the world of DSLR, the Sony Alpha has been everything I could want and had expected. It handles perfectly with an easy to use layout of external controls; the system menu lives up to my expectations of Sony and works smoothly and flawlessly. And above all, the picture quality is fualtless-the supplied kit lens has had some bad reviews but there is absolutely nothing to complain about and the camera is perfectly capable of a number of different, demanding tasks-I have used it for a lot of landscape photography, selling a number of the pictures, and also for a wedding, in which nothing went wrong and I made a fair bit of money from. I will definatley be sticking with Sony!
