New SonyAlpha User

[payn817]

Sorry I didn't see this before. I don't have the Sony, but the KM 5D, which is very similar (a friend has the Sony). After reading the manual, basically what I have found is that as you stated the 3 is 1/3 the 0"5 would be 1/2 sec.

I have come to this conclusion as 1"5 = 1 1/2 secs. My manual also states that for shutter speeds 1/2 second or slower, a quote mark is used to denote whole seconds.

As for your second question, you can try opening up the lens, and raising the ISO. If you still cannot get the results you are after, perhaps a fast prime is in order. You can pick up some good used primes in the mount under the KM/Minolta brand for good prices.

I hope this helps.

[cherietxzta]

Thanks so much for the help. It makes sense now. I just needed a starting point.

I will keep practicing! I'm really glad I decided to take the class because it gives me the incentive I need to get out there and take pictures.

I will keep visiting the forum, there's lots of great questions and answers here. In the mean time I'll be out shooting my next 100 pictures. This week: APERTURE mode.