Need some quick help

[Mahgie]

OK, I just destroyed my Sony a300 camera. I accidently had it on and it was pointed to the sun; the light sensor must have failed or something.
I am in the middle of a college class and need to replace it fast (was not expecting this expense).
My quick choices are:
A300 -running around $500
A330 - about $550
A350 - could maybe get that for $350 [besides more pixels is it really better than the A300?]
A390 - $500
A550 - $600
A700 - a bit of a stretch for me at $700 (but I hear it is a great camera)
The new A55 - around $650 (but I heard it is not so much a portrait type camera, but great for action)

I know there is a lot there; I am so devistated I can't think straight. My goal is to become a pet photographer including dog/cats/horses and to also do regular portraits. You can see some of what I do at flickr.com/photos/bymaggie
Please please help me; I need to order one ASAP or I'll fall way behind in class.
Maggie

[shoturtle]

The a500 is getting allot of discounts about 530 dollars for the body.
But from you list the A550, and I would pick that over the a500 also.

the A55 is not great for action as the refresh rate of the evf will not allow you to use the high fps rate, as you will only be able to shoot at 3fps if you are trying to track your subject. It looks to be a better portrait camera then action camera.

[TCav]

The A3X0 models aren't usually available without a lens which you probably already have. Some of the bodies you mentioned have been out-of-production for a while now, which indicates that you're looking at used. Buying a used dSLR is a big gamble. You have no way of knowing how much use and abuse it's received. On the other hand, if that's a new A700, JUMP ON IT!

[TCav]

Originally Posted by TCav

... On the other hand, if that's a new A700, JUMP ON IT!

... and then ask if they've got any more. Then PM their answer to me.

[shoturtle]

Though the a700 is the best of all the ones listed. If it is pushing your budget, the A550 or A500 would be a wiser choice. And you can put the savings toward another lens. If you need the 50mm 1.8 is about the difference between the a550 and a700 if you do not have a portrait prime for house pets.

[Lilacfire]

I am new to DSLR's so I have to ask this question.. does this happen often that you cannot point DSLR cameras towards the sun? Would a DSLR be more protected with a UV filter?

[shoturtle]

UV filters do protect against dust and debris. But I would only use them when I shoot in harsh environment. But they do degrade image quality. And cause flares and ghosting. So if you do get a filter to protect your lens, get a good one not a cheapo one. Something the is multi coated.

Point a dslr at the is not the best this, an actually point any camera at the sun is not a good thing to do in general. You can burn out the sensor by doing it too often. More so with CCD sensor the CMOS.

[Mahgie]

You guys are awsome!! OK, so I am looking at the 550 on B&H and they have that 3 year warranty. Any pros on that? Usually I avoid any kind of extended warranties, but after what I just did......

[shoturtle]

if it is from Mack it is pretty good. It will not be sony.