.... after working with the alpha a few hours now, I think i can say I do like the layout very much.... The quick funtion comes in handy all the time, and this undoubtedly can be done even better with customisations.
I am having trouble with the correct exposure strategy though, while the alpha did not show me blown highlights, C1 would show them, I wonder what I am doing wrong. Time to read the manual I guess.
So, the button layout, and functionalities are extremly well thought through, I felt quickly at home with the basics, and did not need to consult a manual at all, but I am having a major gripe with the package delivered.
I use the vertical grip, it is on all the time, last not least for battery reason, but that's where I think they should upgrade the package. It comes standard with BC-VM100 single loader, and the loading time fur a full charge is above 3 hours for a single battery. This is very inconvienient, and on calling my dealer they told me that this loader is a replacement part, and not something they can get that easy, apart from that, it appears this Version is outdated already, she spoke of another one that Sony mentioned.
12 hours for a double pack of batteries seems a long time to me, and I wish they would have a dual loader, or would make a second loader easy to be purchased. I have no timed how many shots, but when i left i was at 996% and it went down rapidly to 15%. I am not chimping on the screen, I just check histogram and composition, that's about it, and it does not take me long.
The cable remote is relatively cheap, well, not when you buy it at 30 Sterling, but it is really a bit flimsy and the cable is very poorly mantled.
This is nitpicking of course, but there is room for improvement I would think.
To be able to have it always with me in a handy package I got a lowe all weather Top loader where it fits with the 24-70 and the grip attached very shug into.
All in all, after a few hours, this is a superb camera with a lot of quality potential that needs to be explored in depth. The combination with ZEISS just gives it the final touch. My pictures above in no way reflect what this lense is cabable of, I am just beginning to learn it, but even from a first stumbling around with it, I can say this lense is worth every penny.
Yes, MFDB provides even better qualities, but hey, what else is on the market that comes closer at this point in time and for the money asked for. I think price value wise this system is giving me bank for my buck, and the lenses are equal and better to the very best I have shot with so far.
I can not say how well the files will hold together if they are upscaled, but I would not think this to be a problem in a moderate scenario.
I am very happy with that purchase and I think this camera will be with me for a longer time.... until the alpha 1000 ... may be....