However, it only takes a minute of shooting with the snappy, responsive A350 to relegate any negative impressions of its physical form to the back of your mind. Composite construction is the de facto option for consumer DSLRs these days, but our review unit’s ill-fitting panels and general creakiness don’t inspire confidence. Like its smaller, less costly siblings, the A350 is an all-plastic camera (with polymers even taking the place of metal on the kit lens mount). Other than that, I am mightily impressed with the camera, and looking forward to a lot of happy hours capturing images with it.The Alpha A350 brings pro-grade resolution via its 14.2 megapixel sensor, slotting it somewhere between true entry-level models and advanced-amateur choices like Sony’s own A700. I had to go online to find this, not convenient if you are out shooting, and find you aren'r sure how something works. Personally, I'd prefer a slightly larger page, and single language, with more detail on the functions, memory setting, and picture effects. They typeface is small, and not too clear, and it's also incomplete. The only criticism I have of the camera package is the user manual. The creative styles are a massive improvement on the a580, with adjustments possible within each style, in saturation, sharpness & contrast. My favourite is the high contrast B&W, which is one of my memory settings. The picture effects settings are fun, and will be fully explored, in the fullness of time.
The image results are very good in both Jpg and RAW, though I did get a shock at the size of an XFine Jpg, at between 14-15mb, almost 3 times that of my a580. Having the option to display all settings in it, and the 100% view is fantastic, and it means I have no excuses for having the wrong settings! The resolution of the EVF is excellent, and the responsiveness is amazing. Yes, it is slightly smaller, but the resolution is the same as on the a580, I think, so to me, it is a non-issue. The other criticism has been the size and resolution of the LCD. Well, maybe they aren't experienced Sony users, or maybe Sony have improved it since the camera was launched, but I have found it just as easy to use as those on the a100, 200, 350 & 580, and have had no accidental releases. I have seen criticism of the shutter release elsewhere, with reviewrs saying it is too sensitive. The functions and set up are simple and clear to use, and within a couple of hours, I had my settings to my liking, and programed into memory number one. The menu, while initially mindboggling, makes sense, once you explore it, and is backed with features that I will spend weeks trying out. From the moment it powered up, I could see that Sony had achieved with this camera. I had been reluctant to "go SLT", but when my a580 developed a fatal problem, and I still had a bag of a-mount lenses, I took the leap.
#Sony a350 kit lens upgrade#
To sum up, it is early days yet for a full evaluation but based on first impressions it will hopefully prove be a good replacement and a justifiable upgrade once I get used to all the functions available. Having used my A7 for several years, it will take some time to get to grips with the new technology and features to be found in the A68. I normally use "A", "S" or "Manual" but these options might be worth trying.ĭisappointed that there is no compatible Vertical Grip for this model which I really found useful with my A7. "Scene Selections" (Shooting Mode) look useful. Peak Level for focus (manual) is a new and useful feature as is the exposure highlight indication with the Zebra function, new to me and yet to be fully tried out.
#Sony a350 kit lens plus#
On the plus side, it is light and compact histogram is live and indicates exposure as exposure adjustments are made. I think this could be even more of a problem when out photographing in cold weather - big or small thumb! This winter coming will be the time to test this theory. It needs to be turned clockwise/anticlockwise using the thumb, awkward enough but could be more of a problem if you have a large thumb! The Wheel itself needs to be larger or a return to a Rear Control Dial for these adjustments as with the A7. One problem I have found (so far) is the need to make exposure adjustments (shutter or aperture) using the rear Control Wheel. I have yet to fully try the camera out which will be the real test hence just a 4* for now.
The owners guide book that came with it is very basic, useful more in-depth explanations and tips on the various settings can be found on the Sony website. Recent upgrade and still in the process of fully evaluating the features in comparison to my A700.