New SLT A57 owner... have a question about its built in flash

Hello All,

I recently upgraded to an A57 from a P&S, which I absolutely love. Occasionally, I want to use the camera's flash, but find it kind of... slow? Or is it the autofocus when using the flash? I'm not sure. It's amazing in low light with my prime lens, so only when using the flash.

It flashes quickly, but here is my concern when comparing it to a relative's T4i:

1) The T4i flashes when autofocusing, usually once or not at all. Then snaps pics quickly with the flash

2) My A57 seems to flash 2-3 times in the same conditions, then takes the picture. Overall, it takes 50-100% longer to snap a picture with flash.

I know it's hard to take candids with a flash, but the T4i's flash certainly does it better/faster.

Can someone tell me why? Is it a flash setting I'm not aware of? Thanks for any help