Summary: LOVE IT!!!!!

Comment: I was initially overwhelmed with all the bells and whistles on this camera, but the instruction book is well written and I'm catching on to the countless features.

I bought this camera to replace a Canon AE-1. I am an amateur photographer with an introductory college level photography class. There is absolutely no comparison to the quality of pictures I've taken with the Minolta vs. Canon.

I took a couple of test rolls initially on the automatic mode without any expectation of the results. I was amazed how terrific ALL of my pictures turned out---even the ones I took in the park with one hand holding the camera and the other holding onto the leash of an impatient 80 pound dog. This led me to believe the camera is all but idiot proof on the automatic mode.

I am still learning how to use many of the features, but I'm having the time of my life learning the joy of using a camera that works with me vs. against me. Now I can focus more on creativity. I love the automatic focus because manually achieving perfect focus has always been one of my weaker points. Using a 75-300mm lens is new to me and I'm in awe of the versatility it offers from close ups to distance shots such as wildlife or sports. One of my favorite 'surprise,it turn out' shots from my first test roll of film was a pot of calla lilies shot from half a greenhouse away. Post card gorgeous!

Summary: Great Product , But ???

Comment: Love the product, but a little disapointed in finding out both
lens are different mm, one is 55mm the other is 49mm.
how is a person to use filters interchangably between the two?

wish they both would have been 55mm

Summary: Great Camera

Comment: I bought this camera to replace an old Minolta. I used it for the first time this weekend and loved it! I would recommend reading the book first before you mess with all its gadgets! I really like the features that it offers. Red eye reduction and the extra lens were a plus!

Summary: So far I like it

Comment: I decided to buy this camera for my trip to Dominican Republic. First, I would like to mention the Amazon service, which is great; I got the camera the next day after I ordered.

I am not a professional photographer, I don't even know why I need a second lense yet, but I had a lot of fun taking my first roll of film. The camera is not bulky as it looks and very light. I did not have any trouble understanding automatic features and if you have a good memory you will have no problem mastering manual settings. I stopped by Ritz Camera store and got a couple filters for calendar quality ocean pictures, try Cokin filters website, you will get hooked for yourself. I think it's an exclellent camera, but if you are not a professional make sure you actually need a second zoom lens; otherwise you paying (...) extra for something you might not need (I bought it just in case, but I did not use it yet). Good luck.

Summary: Love it!

Comment: This camera was attached to me at all times on my recent trip to Central Asia. It is not only light but quite easy to use when you're on the go. All my shots turned out great, and all my friends had camera envy!