Good upgrade from Sony DSC-F707

[Leonard Migliore]

Paul C wrote:

- I read in a review that the contrast AF when in live preview mode is REALLY slow, like slower than the average compact camera. Does this affect real-life situations so that the feature is not much more than a gimmick, or is it actually not too bad/okay/just like a compact/no real issues?

It's bad because that's not what the camera was designed to do. DSLR's have very fast and accurate focus using the phase detection sensors in the mirror system. When you use live view, you are ignoring the intent of the camera design. Autofocus in live view on DSLR's is poor to unusable.

Sony uses different systems (live view through the mirror in their old DSLR's, full time phase detection in their SLR's) so their live view focus is quite good.

- While I've no worries with secondhand, or an older camera, I'd still like to be able to shoot the occasional short video clips - I understand the Nikon D5000 does this, any others in a similar price range I should be looking at too?

- I also like shooting mainly with the camera around chest height and the screen (body) tilted up - hence the need for a tilt screen. Are these flip/twist screens on DSLRs these days vulnerable to damage, or is it a non-issue?

Whether they break or not, it's not how the camera was meant to be used; one would be better off with something that doesn't have a reflex mirror if you don't intend to use it.

I'd probably start by seeking out a camera + the basic kit lens (18-55), and at some point in the future get either a 35mm or 50mm f1.8 lens, depending on finding a reasonably priced secondhand item. I don't really want to get into having loads of lenses, a large carry case to cart it all around in, etc. Are these 2 lenses a popular pair to start out with and do they tend to fit 99% of needs or do they restrict you? Obviously, less zoom capability but what kind of pics NEED zoom rather than being able to take at max resolution and possibly cropping later?

DSLR's gain their flexibility from being able to use a range of lenses. I shoot from 15mm to 450mm (full-frame equivalent). Framing a shot properly is very important. There are many fixed-lens cameras with flip screens that can take excellent pictures and I suggest that you examine these more closely.

 

[Paul C]

There are many fixed-lens cameras with flip screens that can take excellent pictures and I suggest that you examine these more closely.