Rating: 
Summary: Pros and Cons of the DSC-F505V
Review: This is a really good camera, but there are some drawbacks. The large lens and overall design fits well in you hands, if you have small hands. The 505's image quality is very good and often opt for the lower resolution images (1856x1392). The low light capabilities are quite good, but you end up having to take one or two shots before finding the best as there is no enhancement of the LCD image prior to a shot. It is sometimes difficult to target with the camera unless you are used to the LCD screen. The menu system is very easy to navigate and allows you to do almost everything you need w/o the use of the computer. Despite the limited (~65min) battery, it is adequate to fill a 64 or 128Mb Memory Stick through normal use. A second battery along with the charger can keep you shooting all day long or as long as your memory holds out. As with any Sony product, the memory will cost you more but go to Synchrotech.com and they have good prices. The flash on the 505 is excellent. At its highest setting, it can easily penetrate 16-20ft. Because of the 505's odd shape, it can be a challenge finding a good case for it other than the custom Sony case. I ended up with a Cascade Pack (#66009) a part of the MULTI pack series by MRock. Everything I need (camera, extra memory, extra battery, A/C battery charger and cables) will fit into this case and the overall size isn't much more than the camera itself. Many of the people I work with wouldn't buy this camera as it is more camera than they need. The 505V is really for someone who wants more control of their shots than the simple point and shoot cameras that are out there, but the 505 does have that ability.
Rating: 
Summary: Worth the money
Review: This was an upgrade for me. Previously I had an old Sony Mavica which I loved -- but the photos were never good enough to print. Bought this new toy right before a cruise to Alaska. What can I say? The pictures are stunning! They're as good if not better than those from my 35mm SLR. Despite many complex features, it's incredibly easy to use. Be prepared -- people will stop you to see what kind of camera it is. It's sleek shape is an attention getter!
Rating:
Summary: Not perfect but very very good
Review: What is good: Fantastic optics. You should set it up never to use the digital zoom. If you need more zoom than the optics provide, do it yourself later in Photoshop. Great ergonomics. Great battery life (close to 2 hours including file transfers.) What it needs: An optical viewfinder. Non-proprietary memory (though at least it's not overly expensive.) An extra battery (always keep one ready to go.) The next generation: A charging / file transfer cradle (drop it in the cradle and you're good to go.) I LOVE MY DSC-F505V!
Rating:
Summary: This one will be a classic
Review: With the left hand wrapped aournd the lens, it containing several important controls, and the right at the shutter and AE controls it fits my hands perfectly. The rotating body allows you to shoot over the crowd in front of you. I had learned from using it's smaller brother, the F55, that the lack of a view finder was not fatal. In fact using the LCD as the viewfinder allows shots that would be difficult otherwise. The Carl Zeiss lens is superb. With 128mb memory sticks now available, shooting tiffs is attainable. Extremely satisfied, until tempted with a F505X?
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