Sony DSLR A200K

[Neil Rigby]

Sony DSLR A200K
One of the Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 series. This new digital SLR includes high-tech features including 10.2-megapixel APS CCD sensor, Sony’s Bionz processing engine, Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO), Super SteadyShot (sensor-shift image stabilization), noise control for ISO up to 3200 as well as an 2.7-inch (230,000 pixels) Clear Photo LCD screen for easy playback viewing, aiming at mainstream photographers.

The Sony Alpha A200 is faster and easier to use than its predecessor - Alpha A100, and lighter in weight too.

This model is an ideal step-up for point-and-shoot users who are looking for a camera that can capture virtually all of the photographs they want.

You can purchase a dual-lens kit which includes the 75-300 mm f4.5-5.6 lens.

Specs: 2.7ins clear photo LCD. 18-70mm lens. Compact flash type 1/microdrive slot. Memory stick duo/MS Pro Duo. High sensitivity (up to ISO 3200) with high-ISO noise reduction. Continuous shooting at 3fps (JPEG fine mode). High-capacity info Lithium battery (up to 750 shots between charges). Dual anti-dust system protects sensor during lens exchange. Super steady shot. Image stabilisation.

Any comments or reviews on this camera for bird photography?

[bassist]

Have just bought this camera, here is a good review of it from camera labs. Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 review Cameralabs introduction When i use it i will post some pics and some first impressions,though as its my first dslr dont hold your breath for an indepth review.......!Peace

Sony Alpha DSLR-A200

The Alpha A200 is Sony’s third DSLR and the successor to its debut model, the best-selling Alpha A100. Launched at CES in early January 2008, the A200 is Sony’s new entry-level DSLR, and as we learnt at the PMA show a few weeks later, the base model upon which at least two subsequent DSLRs would build.

The Alpha A200 shares the same 10.2 Megapixel CCD sensor as its predecessor, but squeezes it into what Sony describes as a smaller and lighter body. Like the two previous Alpha DSLRs, the A200 still features built-in stabilisation which shifts the sensor to counteract camera shake. Like other built-in sensor-shift systems, the benefit is enjoying stabilisation on any lens you attach, although the downside is not being able to see the stabilising effect through the optical viewfinder as you compose your photo.

Beyond the new body shape and control layout, what else is new over the original A100? Sony’s increased the maximum sensitivity from 1600 to 3200 ISO, accelerated the AF performance by 1.7 times, enlarged the screen slightly to 2.7in, employed the same InfoLithium battery pack as the A700 for accurate feedback of remaining charge, and it now supports an optional battery grip.

These are all nice improvements, but they’re hardly ground-breaking, nor do they include the latest technology darling of Live View. At the A200’s launch, this seemed like an oversight by Sony, but a few weeks later at the PMA show, all became clear. The A200 is Sony’s entry-level DSLR, but it’s also the base model for others to build on.

At PMA, Sony announced the A300 and A350 models, which essentially take the A200 and add extra features. For example, the A300 takes the A200 and adds Live View and a vertically tiltable screen. Then the A350 takes the A300 and switches its 10.2 Megapixel sensor for one with 14.2 Megapixels. By doing this, Sony’s effectively created three versions of the same DSLR, allowing you to choose the model which best suits your budget and requirements.

[birdguy]

i got this camera on thursday and its awsome! i love it, i will post some pics when i have used it a few time.

[bassist]

Sony A200 Review - In Depth - AlphaMountWorld.com

[Elizabeth]

Glad I stumbled across this blog as I am intending to buy a DSLR but do not want to rob a bank to fund it... Canon and Nikon seem very overpriced to me and I have decided to go for a Sony beginners camera and it's good to read some positive feedback on the A200. I currently have a Panasonic Lumix 18x bridge camera which is fine but I am now ready for the next step up.

[Neil UK]

Elizabeth feel free to look at some of my pics on the gallery and also my site at Neil Spiers Photography - Wildlife, Landscapes, Night and more they are all taken with a A200. So will give you an idea on the picture quality.

[Elizabeth]

Thanks Neil - picture quality is good - like the red squirel - I come from Cumbria originally even though I now live in Worcestershire and know Dodd Wood/Hill . The Whinlatter Visitor's Centre is a great place to see Siskins too.

[godzila]

nice camera review... like this one...

[Maggie28]

Be wary of Sigma lenses which you may be tempted to buy as they are cheaper than sony's lens. They can be great. But just a word of caution.

I am just getting my lens back from warehouse express because it had to be repaired.

The sigma lens drum motor or whatever, runs too fast for a Sony ( I have the A300) which results in the camera vibrating, making one heck of a noise. Not good for the camera.

Warehouse say they have fixed the lens, drum. So I will let you know how that goes once I get it back.

Does your sony have just the standard lens or did you get a lens specifically for the type of pictures you are going to take like wildlife.

I find I have to pretty close to the subject before getting a decent shot with the standard lens, the sports type lens gives you better clarity at a longer distance.
But it's always best to stick to "rule of thimb" as they say.

Taking pics from a good distance wont give good results unless you have a very expensive zoom lens.

Don't want to put you off, but make sure you get a good lens and although it costs more, it's best to stick to the camera's brand.

[Maggie28]

Originally Posted by Neil UK

Elizabeth feel free to look at some of my pics on the gallery and also my site at Neil Spiers Photography - Wildlife, Landscapes, Night and more they are all taken with a A200. So will give you an idea on the picture quality.

What lens do you use for your wildlife pics?