Sony bundled software or Photoshop/Lightroom?

[wallsyboy76]

I bought myself an A200 2 weeks ago, which I'm loving. It's my first DSLR and, having only ever really taken photos with my camera phone, I'm really enjoying the scope of adjustment and optimisation.
Anyway, I was wondering if anyone had any advice on software used in post production. Is the Sony software much cop, or would I be wise to invest in Adobe? I fully intend to improve my photography and will eventually be adding lenses and other accesories as I (hopefully) improve.
Your assistance is greatly anticipated and appreciated.

[Steve52]

I've only tried the SONY software a few times. That's because I shoot mostly in JPEG and, therefore, use the freebie stuff for post processing (Irfanview, Picassa 3, JASC, etc).
If you intend to shoot in RAW, apart from the SONY software, I think only CS3 or CS4 will directly read the files.
See my post in this section regarding SONY RAW files.

[wallsyboy76]

I had a play with Photoshop CS3 and Lightroom 2 last night and LR2 opens .ARW files straight out of the box apparently. A friend said I would need to download Camera Raw to use PS. I did like the ease of use though. I'm going to have to save up though!! Thanks for your advice, Steve.

[Steve52]

Just one other thing, I would seriously consider purchasing the A200 manual from Gary Friedman. It is much more helpful than the SONY manual. You can buy/download it here(just scroll down til you get to the A200). I have both the A100 and A350 manuals - invaluable.
David Busch also does a good guide on the A100. I expect the A200 guide is equally as good.

[wallsyboy76]

Thanks I'll look into those. I'm at a bit of a disadvantage as there is no-one experienced that I can ask for advice or show my images to for critique, so I'm glad I found these forums. Hopefully my photography will improve as a result.