Can I use these types of cameras for portraits??

[rhoraq]

I'm new to photography and I have an Olympus c-5050 zoom and a Sony A350. I'm interested in mainly portrait & family photography. But the only thing I notice with my Olympus is that I don't receive those crisp really sharp focused pictures (they're more on the soft side even when I adjust the aperture and shutter speed) that I see with other portrait photographers. And was wondering can I get this with either my Olympus or Sony? B/c a few other professionals said the Olympus was more a point and shoot camera. And the Sony I haven't been able to use yet (my mother has it still). I hope someone can help me b/c I'm torn btwn getting a new camera or just working with what I have, but of course I want crisp images so I can get some good word around about my photography. Please help!

[rhoraq]

I'm also limited on my money so I'm thinking of selling my Olympus and maybe buying a Nikon d40 i think it is or d60? Would one of those make for great portraits?

[inkista]

Uh... just how many threads are you gonna post about this? Geez...

The Sony A350 will do what you want just fine--with the right lens and with you mastering the correct technique. I'd say, if you only have consumer zooms for the Alpha, to save your pennies and either purchase the new 50mm f/1.8 lens from Sony, or find a used Minolta-AF 50mm f/1.7 lens. That will be what you want to start with portraits. Then learn how to use it and focus the camera, and proper handholding technique.

[rhoraq]

HA! I had a feeling someone would say that. Ok I know know I have to laugh about this b/c I'm obsessed with finding an answer and so many people are giving me all these options and it's great information, but then I'm thinking ok can I use this Olympus b/c it's point and shoot and they say that's the wrong kind of camera and I want the right camera to start with then my mom says she has this Sony A350 and so on and so on. I'M SORRY! This will be my last thread on deciding the camera. I'm just a little compulsive Once again thank you for the information and sorry to be redundant.

[blsweeney]

I have a point and shoot, and I can take good portrait shots, with a little touch up in photoshop. Use a tripod for steadiness and clarity. Learn the basics, and practice, practice, practice!