Sony Alpha DSLR-A300

I spent a lot of time reviewing different cameras for my first official DSLR purchase before I selected the a300. The research paid off because this camera is wonderful. The live view is awesome- it gives you the capability to get high or low shots that would be a huge pain to get otherwise. Being able to compose your shots on the screen saves time and gives the freedom to have fun with settings without playing the guessing game to how it will turn out. And the live view does not sacrifice focus speed. This camera proves that Sony is edging it's way into the market as a solid competitor with quality DSLR products. I am now capturing beautiful shots like never before.

This camera is more cost efficient than the A350 unless you need the 14 megapixels for huge prints. I wonder if the A350 was made just so people can spend more money, since these cameras are essentially the same. Also, consider the AF Minolta lenses (I bought the 70-210 f/4 'beercan' and 50mm f/2.8 prime lenses and am really happy with both). Sony's lenses are the same mount(they bought out Minolta), and you might get a better deal on the Minolta lenses (I got both of mine for $400). Minolta external flashes work on this body as well.

Overall, I am extremely happy and do not feel like I could have gotten more bang for my buck with any other camera.

* Cost efficient

* Live View

* Image stabilization

* Uses Nikon chip for good reason (reliable)

* Accepts Minolta Maxxum lenses (some of the most reliable and best glass ever produced, especially the prime lenses)

* Wireless flash capability

* HDMI capability to plug camera to your TV set

* Don't get the kit lens (18-70)- too much CA. I have learned quickly that kit lenses are not usually worth the money.

* weak pop up flash construction

Fuji S9000

Canon Powershot S5

Nikon D40X (boyfriend's camera)

I own the Sony A300 and the A200 which I use for weddings and event photography and I have lenses ranging from 11mm to 300mm. I have only praise for these cameras. I use custom white balance and it is easily accessible on these cameras. The wireless flash enables me to use multible flash lighting and this feature is not avaible on some more expensive DSLR. Sony's sensor (used in Nikon), the processor and the large viewing screen are super. The live-tiltable screen on the A300 is wonderful.

Easy menue, light weight (by comparison), wireless flash. No shuttler lag, fast shooting cameras. This camera rules.

None that I have found.

Konica Minolta 5D, Nikon Coolpix 8800.

So far not needed.

Husband and kids got this for me on mother's day. I am a casual user and enjoy nature, outdoor and people as subjects. This camera is wonderful. The quality of the pictures is amazing. The only bad shots I have taken are due to human error, as this camera thinks to correct as much as it can. It is more complex than I will really need, but the shots I will get of my kids are priceless. We are looking forward to years of family photos. I am just a little nervous about bumping the readout screen and cracking it. Sony currently does not make a cover for it like it has for its other models. I also recommend you buy the fastest memory card you can get -- it makes a big difference.

Everything! Can't think of enough good things to say. Tip up display is impressive. Number of options available is almost overwhelming. I cannot think of a setting or option it doesn't have that I would need.

Camera takes my old SLR lenses -- I can still zoom!

It is a bit heavy. I worry about scratching or breaking the readout screen.

Kodak small handheld digital. Non digital slr cameras.

Never had to use.