Let me be clear, I adore the camera tech put out there by Sony. Specifically there Alpha series which has been the mainstay of my professional toolbox for the past 3 years. It is not the only camera that I love but it was my first. This is not a product review or comparison, more a note of appreciation for what has become an old friend; the Sony A57.
It is rare that things work out first time round and I remember the hours of tedium spent on university projects and small productions fumbling around with the likes of the Sony Z1 and the JVC GY HM learning the value of camcorder based technology and the advantages of all encompassing, non-modular, camera builds. The results were satisfactory and we heard no complaints from the team in post. But this was for documentary and productions emulating broadcast and was so incredibly boring in terms of visuals and images. There was rarely any motion other than the slow pan and even rarer to find ourselves having any creative input.
So it became a solo operation for me and sourcing equipment became a specialty. I had gear of my own and severely limited access to equipment from university stores. Drastic measures ensued, including posing as a student to another institution. It should be noted that I do not advocate theft, but always pursue options. The result of all these shenanigans was the purchase of my first camera; The Sony Alpha 57 SLT.
At the time in 2012, most first time camera buyers, it seemed, were investing in the mid range Canon models such as the 550D – 600D and I recall seeing a great many advertisements promoting these products. It may well have been a savvy investment for some, especially considering the implementation of Magic Lantern on Canon products, but I stand by my SLT. Admittedly, it took some time to master but experience has taught me that it was the design and features that this camera provided that developed my taste and skills as a filmmaker and is what has allowed me to make a career out of it today.
Looking forward to making the next investment.