Features:  

The Sony Alpha series is built on Konica Minolta’s SLR bodies, so all their old lenses will work on your new Alpha series. For first time DSLR users, the familiarity of having a real time view of the action on the LCD, and the built-in image stabilizer bring much of the usability of a point-and-shoot.

We really like the Live View function on the generous 3-inch LCD screen. Not only does it feel like using a compact camera, but because Sony has included the ability to move the screen around, it makes it more comfortable to take a variety of pictures. For example, if you need to take a picture down low, you can angle the screen up and still frame your shot without having to sit on the ground. The same concept works when you want to take pictures from up high, like over the heads of people at a concert. This Live View function allows you to use your A300 like a point and shoot camera. Of course this feature can be turned off so you can frame your shot through the viewfinder.

With a 10.2 megapixel image sensor, the Alpha A300 has enough pixels for even the most demanding photographer. However, for entry-level users, that means they can take images that can be blown up to a poster size and still have the image retain it's quality.

With the image stabilizer built into the body of the camera, you can be assured that all your favorite lenses will work with the camera and will still produce clean, sharp images. The A300 accepts all old Konica Minolta lenses.

Like most DSLRs, the A300 features an anti dust mechanism to keep dust off the CCD sensor. Each time you remove the lens you run the risk of exposing the sensor to dust. The best way to avoid having to re touch photos because of dust specs is to keep dust from entering the system.

The Sony DSLR Alpha A300 features a built in flash that pops up automatically. This can help the first time user to get better shots, and also help him/her to know when to use a flash.

You can shoot up to 3 frames per second while using the viewfinder. This is perfect for action shots such as sports or fast moving children. The buffer can store 6 images in RAW mode, and since it uses an intelligent buffer youdon’t have to wait for the buffer to clear before you can start shooting again.

Ease of Use:  

Because of the adjustable tilt screen, we really thought the Alpha A300 is easy to use and brings a great dynamic to taking your photos. It also comes with many automatic shooting modes that make it simple to start out using this DSLR as a point and shoot until your skills improve and you can adjust the settings manually.

Value:  

Although the Sony Alpha A300 is more expensive than other entry-level DSLRs, we think it more than makes up for the extra price with its features. The adjustable screen, the 10.2 megapixel resolution and more give novice DSLR users a lot of room to explore and feel comfortable making the transition to DSLR.

Customer Satisfaction:  

Users were impressed with the overall picture quality from the A300. Many really like the ability to use the old Konica Minolta lenses. And, like us, most users found that the tiltable LCD screen made taking and framing pictures from difficult angles so much easier.

The Sony Alpha A300 brings together many features in a price that is attractive to many users. It is a good choice for anyone wanting to take their photography to the next level.

Click here to see images taken with the Sony Alpha DSLR-A300.