The Sony A290 is just only a DSLR camera, no more and no less. One should however be aware! It has no video. For what? If I want to make videos, I use a video camera. It does not have Live View. (Picture Predictive) Those who absolutely need, could then buy the A390, but is equal to more expensive and has a better picture. Besides, I always wonder what the photographer make, for example, a Canon D350, D450 Sony A230 have etc? Camera "Switch 13"? The Sony is said a stronger image noise at ISO 800. My opinion: When I really need such a high ISO setting as an amateur photographer? Then I really buy me the same professional equipment, such as the Nikon D5100. What is important is the image stabilizer that Sony has. This means that you can buy lenses that incorporate not have its own image stabilization and thus are less expensive, such as the Tamron 55-200mm, equivalent also has a very good image quality for this price (110 at Amazon). The Sony A290, the corresponding standard lens 18-55mm and Tamron 55-200mm Sal, there are at the moment for me no more inexpensive entry opportunity into the DSLR world with very good image results when a little busy with the matter. From my A290 gets a big recommendation and with the Tamron 55-200mm to be equal even a higher league.
