Sony cybershot DSC-H5B?

Question

12x optical zoom and 7.2 MP. That is hot, but has anyone used it and know how easy it is to use? Sony knows how to make things simple but I still get confused with technology sometimes. I’m going to take photo class next year and I want a camera, and the easier the better. So. . . any input?

Answer 1

I have the 2005 version, the Sony DSC H1. It operates essentially the same as the H5. I think the H1 is a great camera and have gotten very good results on full automatic mode.

I also have a 4 year old Sony DSC P8, which is a pocket sized camera. I was happy that the menu system was very much the same in the H1 as the P8, so I didn't have to relearn that and remember the differences.

Simple is a tough thing to define for another person. Yes, there is a good Automatic mode, so you can just turn it on, zoom to the proper framing, and shoot. You will get very good results almost all the time.

All digital cameras have buttons and menus to make setup selections. (You don't say if you have already had a digital camera.) Usually they use little symbols to save space. These require some learning and practice, so you do not get flustered by them.

The H5 has more capabilities for Manual (vs Automatic) control of the camera. So there are more little symbols on the dial and more menus than average. There are also a couple of extra buttons on the camera that make it quicker to make some choices. So I guess it is less "simple".

Yet, in total, it is not really that much more than my P8. Digicams just all have some level of these things.

On the good side, the menus are much easier to read on the large LCD screen. And you can learn to stay away from the modes you don't understand.

There are 2 buttons on the camera that are new:

The "EV/LCD" button lets you choose between using the small Electronic Viewfinder and the large LCD. You cannot have them both on at the same time. I use both, so have to switch frequently.

The "Focus" lets you choose between 3 focus methods, including manual. If you push it accidentally, it can cause some confusion.

After rereading this, I don't know if I helped you. Yes, it has a simple and good Automatic mode. And Yes, it has more options than average so is not as simple as some. And Yes, all digicams have many buttons and menu choices.

I hate to see you miss out on a great camera because of a few more controls. Later you may want to use them. But if not, maybe a simpler camera would be better to start with.

Email me if you have any specific questions.

Good Luck