Sony Alpha DSLR-A290L with 18-55mm lens Reviews: Digital SLR Camera

Here’s a list of the questions other shoppers have asked owners of the Sony Alpha DSLR-A290L with 18-55mm lens

1. hello does this camera have a goos Auto focus and i saw a review state the theres isnt a viewfinder on the screen is this true?
   
   ashley asked on 08 Dec 2010
   1. AF is quite good for me. There is no viewfinder on the screen as far as I know - I mean I did search for it in the menu/settings and couldn't find it ;)
      Apart from that it's simple to use in manual mode - which is great for me.
      Kind regards.
      
      Jakub replied on 09 Dec 2010

       
2. Does it have the option to change image sharpness processing via any of the menus?
   
   Gordon asked on 09 Dec 2010
   1. As far as I know it doesn't.
      
      Jakub replied on 09 Dec 2010

       
3. i have not owned a camera yet but i am very interested in this one, would it be good for a begginer photographer?
   
   neil asked on 18 Dec 2010
   1. I'm beginner as well and I would recommend that one. It's quite easy to use.
      
      Jakub replied on 19 Dec 2010

       
4. 1. Is NP-FH50 battery system is rechargable or not?
   
   2. In there any inbuit memory for this unit?
   
   3. What was the memory storage come with the package?
   
   4. What about the product insurence and gaurantee?
   
   5. What 's the company warrenty for this product?
   
   
   
   Sridhar asked on 19 Dec 2010
   1. Battery is rechargeable
      
      There is no built in memory
      no memory cards comes with the package, camera can use both SD and Memory Stick Pro Duo cards (both can be inserted at the same time).
      
      I don't know about insurance 'cos I wasn't interested in it.
      
      As far as I remember there is one year limited manufacturer guarantee.
      
      kind regards.
      
      Jakub replied on 28 Dec 2010

       
5. is it true that this camera does not have full HD movie capacity?
   
   Ian asked on 26 Dec 2010
   1. doesn't make movies at all.
      
      Jakub replied on 28 Dec 2010

       
6. I've just bought this camera today and im trying to test it out as its my first dslr, although i cant seem to set up the lcd monitor :S any help?
   
   jim bob joe asked on 28 Dec 2010
   1. what you mean by setting up lcd? you can't use lcd as a viewfinder... somethimes it's no good but i've used to it. i check the menu few times looking for that function but couldn't find it. It's fine by me but sometimes it'll be much easier if you could use lcd as a viewfinder. for sure you can in more expensive alphas (those with adjustable lcd position)
      
      Jakub replied on 29 Dec 2010

       
7. Does this camera allow for you to take photos in black/white or sepia. Failing that does the software allow you to edit the images to induce this effect?
   
   Nathan asked on 28 Dec 2010
   1. you can take photos in b/w - no sepia. i personally didn't install the software...
      
      Jakub replied on 29 Dec 2010

       
8. I have this camera and at first it was working fine, now all of a sudden, when i try to take a photo, it delays and flashes three times before actually capturing a photo, any advice?
   
   lauren asked on 29 Dec 2010
   1. no idea - mine is still fine (had it for 2 months) - maybe check the Drive Mode setting - it can be set up to take 3 shots after 10 second delay.
      
      Jakub replied on 29 Dec 2010

       
9. Hello,
   
   I am looking to get this camera for an 8 month round the world trip. Is it a good camera for travelling (lightweight, durable etc) ? and is it easy to upload pictures to the computer and facebook??
   
   James asked on 12 Jan 2011
   1. It is possibly the best camera for traveling with, not only does it provide superb picture quality but the build quality is superb. I have found that compared to other DSLR cameras it is light and has a comfortable size. So for a practical camera that performs well you should definitely have this at the top of your list.
      
      Richie replied on 12 Jan 2011

       
   2. Hi James,
      As DSLRs go this is lightweight, as the camera body is plastic. It apears to be quite durable, but I wouldn't like to risk dropping it, or any other DSLR, on the floor. It's very easy to upload pictures to the computer, but as I don't use facebook I can't comment on if it is possible to post your pictures on there direct from the camera.
      Hope this helps.
      
      Bryan replied on 12 Jan 2011

       
   3. have a look at the new semi translucent mirrored a33 or a55 form Sony, I have a DSLR-A290L with 18-55mm lens and I love it. but as you were interested in uploading your images have a look and the geotagging functions on the a55...all around the Sony range is excellent from the beginner to prosumer end. also you can user minolta glass.....hope this helps...
      
      anthony replied on 13 Jan 2011

       
10. I'm starting a photography A-level and i am thinking of buying this camera, would this be a good for begginers ?
    
    
    
    
    Rebecca asked on 12 Jan 2011
    1. For beginners is good I would say. It's quite easy to use and image quality is v.good.
       Kind Regards.
       
       Jakub replied on 13 Jan 2011

        
11. are the lenses can be replace?with a higher one?
    
    alkim asked on 17 Jan 2011
    1. Sure, you can buy many extra lenses after market, from Macro to Super zoom, though prices vary greatly as do manufacturers.
       
       Richie replied on 18 Jan 2011

        
    2. Yes, you can use lenses other than Sony but they do range in price so shop around and look at other manufactures versions, they generally make fits for Sony, fuji, canon etc.
       
       David replied on 19 Jan 2011

        
12. Does this camera have live view or is it optical only
    
    Linda asked on 22 Jan 2011
    1. Optical only.
       
       Lily-Jade replied on 23 Jan 2011

        
    2. optical only.
       
       Jakub replied on 24 Jan 2011

        
13. Could I use this for astrophotography, don`t know a lot about cameras but willing to learn. I know it has to be 35mm
    
    alf asked on 22 Jan 2011
    1. This camera should be OK for taking photos of stars, planets etc. but I think you will need a very good (expensive) telephoto lens to get good results
       
       Bryan replied on 24 Jan 2011

        
14. ive found the lens for it doesnt zoom in very far what lens could i buy to zoom in a lot further
    
    Ben asked on 23 Jan 2011
    1. There are three options:
       
       (1) Get a very expensive but fantastic 'Sony 300mm f2.8 G Lens'.( I wish I had one:)
       
       (2) Or the 'Sony Alpha 75-300mm F4.5-5.6 Lens' this is the one I have and I’ve had some very good results.
       
       (3) The last option gets a cheaper 3rd party lens, I would not recommend this I have a lot of bad glass and all of it is 3rd party. If you are on a very tight budget look for Sony and Minolta 2nd hand glass well looked after and boxed if possible.
       
       anthony replied on 24 Jan 2011

        
15. can you watch on normal HD TV or does it have to be Bravia?
    
    Linda asked on 24 Jan 2011
    1. It fits any hdmi cable so ant tv or monitor.
       
       David replied on 24 Jan 2011

        
16. Hi,
    
    This would be my first slr camera. i will be using it for AS level aswell as for a trip to south america. is it a good choice?
    
    Josh asked on 04 Feb 2011
    1. in MY opinion it is a good choice for a beginner SLR. But I would suggest going to the photo store and ask somebody to show you few SLR's.
       
       Jakub replied on 06 Feb 2011

        
17. When I buy the camera, will it come with a strap attached to carry the camera round my neck, or do I have to buy this seperately? Thanks.
    
    Rachel asked on 06 Feb 2011
    1. strap is included.
       
       Jakub replied on 06 Feb 2011

        
    2. Hi Rachel,
       A strap is included, along with lens cap, battery charger, rechargeable battery and some immaging software on a CD. What you don't get, unless you are buying a "bundle", is a memory card, which is essential to store the photos in the camera until you can download them to a PC or laptop. I use a 2gigabyte "SD card" which is fine for an amateur like me. More serious photographers would go for the alternative "Memory Stick PRO Duo" which has a faster read/write speed.
       
       Bryan replied on 07 Feb 2011

        
18. Can somebody email me a few pics, just to understand the quality at
    
    vinay.bohara@gmail.com?
    
    Thanks,
    Vinay
    
    Vinay asked on 12 Feb 2011
    1. have a look at RJB Photography on Facebook or www.rjbphotography.co.uk
       
       Richie replied on 13 Feb 2011

        
19. this is going to be my first dslr and im wondering if this is the best camera for someone that is just starting
    
    kerr asked on 16 Feb 2011
    1. This is a good starter camera, but only you can say if its the best one for you. Get yourself into a Jessop's shop and try handling a few diferent cameras. If price is your main concern then this is a very good camera for the price.
       
       Bryan replied on 16 Feb 2011

        
20. hi,
    i would be using this camera for action shots, so just wondered if the shutter speed would be fast enough so that the pictures didn't come out blurry. the camera i have now is good but sometimes looses the sharpness of the pictures =) oh, and what is the zoom like?
    
    
    Leshka asked on 21 Feb 2011
    1. Hi,
       
       The zoom is decent and maintains picture integrity. As for action shots this camera, although not the quickest out there it is good for average use. You get 3 frames per second and a maximum shutter speed of 1/2500 of a second which will capture anything you point it at.
       
       Richie replied on 24 Feb 2011

        
    2. Hi,
       Shutter speed up to 1/2500 of a second depending on available light and aperture setting. The 18-55mm lens gives you zoom from wide angle to just more than a standard lens on a 35mm film SLR. So if you want to zoom in close for your action shots you will need a quality lens which zooms out to 200/300mm
       
       Bryan replied on 24 Feb 2011

        
21. Hi, I need to take close up pictures of crystals, tumblestones & gem stones and wondered what the quality would be like, without having to buy a macro lens?
    
    Debbie asked on 09 Mar 2011
    1. I could not tell you as I have only done close up work using a macro
       
       Jurgen replied on 11 Mar 2011

        
    2. there is a macro setting on the dial it is very good with the 18 -55 lens quality is good not great depends wether you ar blowing the photo up to poster size or just to a4/a5 size in which case it is brilliant good luck happy photos' Dave
       
       DAVE replied on 11 Mar 2011

        
22. is it difficult to take pictures with not having a view finder?
    
    Matt asked on 11 Mar 2011
    1. it does have viewfinder but you can't use display as a viewfinder. Sometimes it's annoying. For me it's ok.
       
       Jakub replied on 14 Mar 2011

        
    2. as jakub said, it does have a view finder, but it isnt at all hard to use ^^, but dont forget, it is a basic entry level dSLR, aimed at the first time users, but worry not, if you, like myself are used to using a normal point and click camera, then you shouldnt really need to worry about it not having a live view function, as i have often just randomly pointed at an object and taken a picture that has turned out great
       
       mike replied on 18 Mar 2011

        
23. Hi, Does this have an bracketing mode for exposure? Thanks
    
    Vic asked on 17 Mar 2011
    1. Yes
       
       Bryan replied on 18 Mar 2011

        
24. is 'the shutter speed' how long it takes for a picture to be taken?
    
    how long does it take for a photo to be taken on average after the button is pressed ?
    
    many thanks
    
    alex asked on 20 Apr 2011
    1. 1..the basic's are that the shutter speed is the time it takes to take the picture.
       
       2..How fast can you blink, and it's faster than that, the only option is if you change the shutter speed.
       
       Jurgen replied on 20 Apr 2011

        
25. ive just bought this camera but dont have a clue how to use it. ive read the manual and reviews online but id like abit more help or more of an explanation regarding using the lens to ensure i get the best photos. i dont just want to point and shoot and twist the lens from side to side for effect without knowing how im affecting the picture! thanks :)
    
    Nina asked on 01 May 2011
    1. you must read the manual to know how to use thedial at the top left of the body that in conjunction with the lens gives you your creativity, regards DAVE
       
       DAVE replied on 01 May 2011

        
26. This may sound stupid but does this camera have a Macro feature without purchasing additional lenses?
    
    Cameron asked on 05 May 2011
    1. Yes
       
       Bryan replied on 05 May 2011

        
27. This is going to sound even more stupid so sorry in advance but does this camera have an optical viewfinder? I need to use my glasses to view lcd screen & find an optical viewfinder much easier. If it doesn't can anyone recommend a camera with a viewfinder for a complete beginner please? Thanks
    
    mo asked on 07 May 2011
    1. This has a fixed eye-level system with roof mirror type
       
       Jurgen replied on 08 May 2011

        
28. I am a complete first time user of DSLR's and am hoping to buy one later this year, is this camera good for landscape shots and close up nature/ animal shots? i do already have a Panasomic Lumix DMC - FS15 but after 2 years of having it , it no longer does what i need it to do .. help??
    
    Chloe asked on 12 May 2011
    1. Hi Chloe, yes this camera would be good for landscape - portrait and close up animal shots though if the animal in question is at a distance obviously you will need a longer lens I had an Slr type that had A type lens mount so I can use all my previous other lenses give it a try i'm sure you will agree its worth it BYE DAVE
       
       DAVE replied on 12 May 2011

        
    2. Hi hun,
       Yes, this camera is good for landscape shots and nature/wildlife, especially as you can get some good tamron lenses for it, I have 70mm - 300mm tamrom for wildlife shooting and I have never been let down by it so far, as the camera works wonders.... So I deffinately do suggest buying one.
       
       Good luck to you and all the best :)
       
       mike replied on 12 May 2011

        
29. im looking at the sony alpha hot shoe adapters on ebay does anyone own one because all my strobes are cannon/nikon strobes thanks
    
    sam asked on 13 May 2011
    1. i dont know of any personally, but if you could afford it, id buy a jessops 360AFD flashgun for £79.99 as it has a great spec for small price, i.e guide number of 36
       
       mike replied on 17 May 2011

        
30. I was interested in purchasing this camera, as I have heard it is ideal for beginners, such as myself, however I am slightly unsure of the extra products I would need to buy, i.e. lithium battery, memory card etc. If anyone could let me know what extras I would need to buy alongside this camera, that would be great.
    Thank You!
    
    Charlotte asked on 12 Jun 2011
    1. I would recommend this camera, like you I was a beginner and found this camera ideal, I originally like the looks and ease of use and the price was right for me. You can use any SD card I bought an 4Gb which I believe cost me around £10from Amazon and the spare batteries are not too exspensive, was bought from Sony.
       
       Jurgen replied on 12 Jun 2011

        
    2. Good morning Charlotte. You just need to buy the camera! It comes with a battery and charger. It's optional for you but you may like to purchase an additional battery [charging while you are using the other] if you are taking a lot of photographs etc. The camera also comes with the lead to connect to your computer and thence download to your computer or store on a flash drive. I am a moderately keen 'taker of photographs' rather than an amateur photographer: for people such as myself when you choose the setting [landscape, portrait etc.] a summary of that choice appears as text on your screen. Thus if you have difficulty reading the setting worm on top of the camera you can check you have the correct setting by looking at the screen which gives a very clear explanation. The only 'extra' you will neeed is a carrying case. I chose a 'Tamrac' and they vary in price. Have a look at the internet. The cheap ones start at about £ 10.00. I think my 'Tamrac. cost about £ 25.00.
       
       If you choose the Sony you will not be disappointed. I cannot speak about their 'life'. I am only saying this because I bought the Sony to replace a Canon which was only three years old and had not been maltreated in any way: however the sensor mechanism 'gave up' for no reason and I was advised to bin it, which I did. I really do not know why the sensors 'give up', nor how long one can expect them to last.
       
       Hope this helps you to come to the right choice. John
       
       John replied on 12 Jun 2011

        
31. Can I take videos with this camera?
    
    Ann asked on 21 Jun 2011
    1. No
       
       Bryan replied on 21 Jun 2011

        
    2. no, for stills only sorry.
       
       gareth replied on 21 Jun 2011

        
32. hi
    i bought this camera today i dont know how to use it,i got a problem while taking photo i m unable to see the picture in the display
    
    ramesh asked on 21 Jun 2011
    1. Hi you can't see the picture you are taking on the screen till after you have taken the picture. This is a feature on compact cameras not slr where you use the view finder to focus the picture hope this helps
       
       ELIZABETH replied on 23 Jun 2011

        
    2. :o, ive never heard of this before, have you tried pulling out the battery and putting it back in again, or pressing the little > at the bottom ?
       
       if it still stays the same read through your instructions and see what they say or suggest =]
       
       mike replied on 23 Jun 2011

        
33. HI can you help please. I am looking for a camera which is user friendlly for some one with arthritic hands. do you think i would find this camera too heavy, or too haard to hold?/ thank you for your help
    
    
    lynn asked on 08 Jul 2011
    1. Hi, this camera is bit heavy, not only this most of all the DSLR cameras, to be very honest, if you are interested in DSLR camera A 390 is better than A290. The major difference is that in A390 you can see live view in its LCD screen, and it can tilt, price is only 20-25 pound difference.
       
       Abhilash replied on 09 Jul 2011

        
    2. Hi Lynn this camera is definately user friendly it has a moulded grip on one side which is comfortable to hold and the weigh will depend on the type of lens used, mine came with a 18-55mm lens and is not too heavy. hope this helps
       
       peter replied on 09 Jul 2011

        
    3. Hi Lynn
       I would say that you should be able to hold this with greater ease than a point and shoot type which with stiffness you would find in your fingers could be too small to grip well. It isn't heavy but it's obviously not small enough to pop into a pocket. It is true about the previous comment that you don't see the image you are about to take on the screen. You have to use the viewfinder but that's the reason I wanted a viewfinder because you can't see anything on the screen on a bright day and you can see every shot after it's been taken, brightness permitting.
       
       Caryl replied on 13 Jul 2011

        
34. Hiya ,Is this camera MADE IN JAPAN?
    
    senthil asked on 14 Jul 2011
    1. hello senthil the camera is made in thailand and the lens is to hope this helps you decide to buy this camera the software that also comes with it is very good also buy the flash gun to go with it the HVL-F20AM
       
       howard replied on 15 Jul 2011

        
35. hiya
    
    is this camera made in japan?
    
    sen asked on 16 Jul 2011
    1. thailand
       
       Jakub replied on 16 Jul 2011

        
36. I am thinking of buying this camera but is no live view a problem?If it is is there a similar priced camera from a different brand?Finally i have an old Carl Zeiss jena ddr f=50mm lens from an old practica film camera(1980's).Would this work on the sony alpha A290?
    
    Harry asked on 18 Jul 2011
    1. I am sure. Buy Sony alpha A290 camera and be happy. It woks well.
       
       PEDRO replied on 18 Jul 2011

        
    2. Hi Harry,
       
       I've not found the lack of 'Live View' a problem especially in bright sunny weather when screens can be difficult to check for accurate focussing etc. Plus you get exposure information at the bottom of the viewfinder for additional information eg giving you an exposure reading and then using this as a guide to switch to Aperture or Shutter priority mode.
       As for the old Carl Zeiss lens, you should check this out with a good photographic shop as you will need a convertor from the original mount to the Sony 'A' mount on the Alpha. You certainly won't get Auto-Focus with this lens, and probably no Aperture Control either. This is why you really need to consult an expert on this.
       I'm very pleased with the Alpha 290 and hope this info helps.
       
       Neil replied on 18 Jul 2011

        
37. Hi, does this camera have in built trim function? I need to crop my pictures on the go to pick out the players individually and don't really want to carry a laptop or the like.
    
    Nina asked on 18 Jul 2011
    1. simple answer is no
       
       Jurgen replied on 18 Jul 2011

        
    2. I may have missed something on the camera, but I haven't even tried to crop. This model does not have that feature. I have just checked the instruction manual and I cannot find any reference to cropping. Sorry I cannot help on this.
       
       John replied on 19 Jul 2011

        
38. What equipment comes with the camera, such as strap and/or lense cover? Thank you in advance. :)
    
    Niall asked on 23 Jul 2011
    1. strap, lens cover and software.
       
       gareth replied on 24 Jul 2011

        
    2. usually --strap lens cover 18-55lens battery instruction manual all in its own box --hope you enjoy it as much as I best wishes happy snaps D
       
       DAVE replied on 24 Jul 2011

        
39. hi there i was thinking about gettingg a sony alpha a290 but has the body got a grease like splatter effect .
    
    ciaran asked on 24 Jul 2011
    1. It has yes, but I have seen this on nikons and canons, even their higher end SLR's. Have this splatter effect on.... But the easiness and performance of the Sony a-290 I found, cannot be matched by most others and it takes lovely pics too :)
       
       mike replied on 25 Jul 2011

        
40. I've just ordered one - my question is - can I install a fuji 2gb xd card?
    
    Doug asked on 25 Jul 2011
    1. No, the Sony will only take SDHC cards or Memory Stick cards. I've just bought a 16GB SDHC Card for under £15, so cost isn't really an issue any more.
       
       
       Neil replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
    2. Sorry, but I am not sure. But I'd like to know about that. Only I cna say is that Sony is really fantastic.
       
       PEDRO replied on 26 Aug 2011

        
41. Apart from Sony lenses, are there any others which are compatible with this camera? Thanks you un advance. :)
    
    Niall asked on 25 Jul 2011
    1. hello niall yes there are if you check theses links http://skinflint.co.uk/?cat=acamobjo_min&sort=p&bpmax=&asuch=&v=e&plz=&dist=&xf=
       http://www.idealo.co.uk/cat/4332F1316272/camera-lenses.html?param.resultlist.sortKey=minPrice
       
       these may give you some good prices hope this helps
       
       howard replied on 26 Jul 2011

        
    2. Remember that all the Minolta lenses will be compatable. So you can use a second hand lens if you can get a good one.
       
       Caryl replied on 10 Aug 2011

        
42. is this camera has a video recording and playback to pal or ntsc system
    
    lyndon asked on 31 Jul 2011
    1. no sorry
       
       gareth replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
    2. This model does not have a video setting. You can however view static pictures on your TV: it's compatible with PhotoTV HD standard. On colour TV systems you need a TV with a video input jack and the video cable. PAL system in the UK.
       
       Hope this is helpful.
       
       John replied on 24 Aug 2011

        
43. I take a lot of photo's that cant use flash. What are the results like? I'm thinking of purchasing this camera and so far have been pleased with all the inforation everyone has given.
    
    jacqui asked on 22 Aug 2011
    1. as long at apiture ok its fine
       
       AMANDA replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
    2. I think the results are quite good, I have only used auto settings so far and taken photo's in dark conditions where there are street lights etc. I think that if a tripod and manual settingw were used the results would be even better.
       
       Alan replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
    3. If you can't use a flash and it's dark then the results are not great. We always use auto flash, and the results are fantastic. Best camera we have ever bought.
       
       Giselle replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
44. Does this camera have video recording capability??..if so, what is the maximum resolution it can shoot...
    
    Krishna asked on 05 Sep 2011
    1. No, it doesn't. No recording facility.
       
       Lee replied on 05 Sep 2011

        
    2. No it does not have a video facility
       
       Ian replied on 07 Sep 2011

        
45. Im New to photography and have never had a digital slr before. so is this a good camera for begginners
    
    Lewis asked on 19 Sep 2011
    1. yes it is a very good camera to start out with and learn. when you turn the dial on the settings it will explain what that setting does so helps u learn as you go along . and as the price is low now its also a great deal. i got mine from Argos for around 270 pounds . if you decide you don't like photography its not a lot of money to waste.
       hope this is of some help to you.
       
       keith.
       
       keith replied on 20 Sep 2011

        
    2. i agree with bothLewis and Keith that this is good camera for beginners because as like you i am learning as i go along.
       
       colin replied on 21 Sep 2011

        
46. I had an old Minolta X300 MD fit lenses will they fit the sony? i know they will not be AF thanks
    
    Cyril asked on 23 Sep 2011
    1. Hi, as far as I'm aware, all minolta lenses will fit the sony as they use the same lens mount, but I WON'T confirmfirm it 100%... I'd suggest that you contact your local sony dealer or phone sony customer care on this matter so they can better clarify this for you :), hope this helps
       
       mike replied on 23 Sep 2011

        
47. hi guys ,,anyone out there in this big bad world,know what would be a ideal printer to partner this camera,,, thanks guys,, sry and ladies
    
    wayne asked on 28 Nov 2011
    1. try an epson stylus photo px720wd it's the one I have and it gives great pictures. also the ink cartrages are resonable if you use generic ones that are as good as the epson. when looking for a printer always look at the prices of the ink it is what costs the money. it prints in 5 colours + black. very happy with it.
       
       Roy replied on 30 Nov 2011

        
    2. I agree with Roy. I use an Epson, i cvan't fault them.
       
       Tony replied on 30 Nov 2011

        
    3. I agree i use an Epson stylus photo R300,its always given good results.
       
       Peter replied on 02 Dec 2011

        

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