anyone having buyer's remorse syndrome?
Haha not at the moment. Am enjoying the features the camera has. Here are my thoughts so far :
1. Really a PNS interface , u need to get used to the momentum to change controls . In Manual mode , u can use the dial to change shutter speed and Aperture quickly, the 'button pressing' game starts when you want to alternate to change ISO , Flash , Metering mode. But its not that hard. Theres a back cum menu button , that brings u to the main menu very quickly for u to change ur settings. PNS user familiar with cybershot and the H Series should find this familiar.
2. High ISO performance ---> definitely much much better than my Alpha350 haha. I think the ISO capability need no further acknowledgement.
3. Auto Intelligent modes ---> quite intelligent , when you are shooting close up , it activates Macro modes , and the background defocus modes comes on as well , can use the dial to change level of defocus , when shooting into dark areas , the night scene modes gets turn on as well.
4. Handling of Nex5 ----> Definitely no problem with handling or any form of unbalance feeling at all ! Its very light and the built is solid . Fixing on the E-Mount lens is much stiffer and less fluid than Alpha mount.
5. Noisy (as in literally noisy) ----> Yes , this camera is noisy ( not picture noise) despite its small size. Putting it on Panorama mode , reminds me of a toy gun firing ( I think in the MOD review , this was mentioned) . Theres a shake plus noise everytime the cam takes a shot. I am trying to see is it a setting issues. Putting the cam on continous AF seems to have a very mild virbation , i assuming thats akin to hunting . I need further comfirmation on this so will test it longer.
6. HD Video ----> This is one aspect that wow me . Recorded a 21second clip , the playback is fantasic. BUT has not load them onto pc yet to run at larger resolution.
7. Flash -----> Fixing on the flash is easy but screwing the pin can be done away in future models. The flash angle is limited bounce is limited as the flash cant be tilted to put up straight. So far the flash white balance seems acceptable to me , flash power better than PNS .
8. Auto focus -----> I agree with Ouverture, AF speed is nowhere at DSLR performance . Didnt play with GF1 long enough to compare , but definitely better than EP1 ( First firmware version) . With the current updates , the EP1 AF should improved significantly. So hoping that will happen to NEX too for future firmwares updates.
9. Price-value proposition ----> The package is kinda dissappointing . I was expecting it to come with at least a free memory card . Went to Giant to get a 8gb SD for 28 bucks. Lack of unique casing. Well Sony not known to be generous with accessories ! The optional half leather pouch looks interesting but I think its not cheap. Lack of screen protector is serious concern for me now . My Sony Walkman is full of scratches after putting it in my pocket for a day ... So With no casing n protector , I have very low urge to take it out.
But with the price tag of 1.2k , for a handy cam , that can deliver video and still pics at a punch , I think its worth the dough.
10. Wait for NEX 7 ? ------> For those that wants superior manual controls and looking for a small form camera . The NEX 5 is really not for you unless you have patience to get use to the interface . Without the instruction manual , learning to swtch settings can be a chore . Once you know the procedures , its quite easy. This camera is aimed for consumers who wants to change lens on their PNS camera but not appealed by the bulk of DSLR. I think its more clear after trying out .
11. Who should buy ? ----> As mentioned. If you are looking for a small form camera with interchangeable lens that you can lug around in your bag easily , and you are happy with shoot in Auto mode all the time. This is the camera for you.
For the serious amateur , if you wish you had a small form camera that does more than a PNS at times and occassions where bringing the DSLR is an overkill . The NEX 5 could be the solution for you.
With all the automated features in this camera , I find it fun to use and yet satisfying my desire to do adequate controls over the photographing process.
As a word of caution , The NEX 5 is not the perfect solution nor implementation of a compact mirrorless large sensor camera. Personally , I think more improvements can be done to lens design and body design to make it even more compact ! I bought the 16mm , and after fixing the lens to the body, I dont think one can put it sleekly into the jeans . Maybe cargo pants with big pockets !