Thank you for all the encouragement.
Dioptrick, I'd like to help others with impressions of the SEL 50mm F 1.8, but I don't really know anything in order to make comparisons.
I'll try to make some comments, but bear in mind, that other than an iPhone, this is my first camera and I'm just learning about not only how to use the NEX 5N and lenses but photography in general.
I have the 18-55mm kit lens but barely use it anymore. Obviously the 50mm F1.8 is considered a better lens but I also seem to be able to capture what I'm seeing in my mind much, much better with 50mm F1.8 than the kit at the same focal length. I find it much easier to compose. I suppose this is because it's fixed and I need to move rather than zoom. So in this regard, I think it's easier to use.
I shoot in A with DMF in RAW. I don't have a great feel for what aperture to use yet but I find that I can really see what changes I need to make in order to get a result the next time. I can see what range of aperture I should try in order to have a final image that might be good. I don't have this same sight with the kit lens even at the same focal length. So in this regard, I think it's less forgiving.
I think the lesson here is that if you are a beginner, then use a prime lens to learn on.
The lens is very easy to handle. The focus ring feels right where it should be and is large. I don't seem to have any problems with flare but I always use the hood, which is quite long, as I don't trust myself to really notice where reflected light might be coming from especially for inside shots.
Focus Peaking is a God send for me and while I make minor adjustments in magnification mode, I'm learning to trust the peaking most of the time. I'm using the yellow colour at mid level. I'm not sure if this information is useful to anyone.
I'm really, really pleased with this camera and lens combo. I wasn't sure if I could learn to handle the equipment but I think I am learning a little every time I use them.
I have absolutely no upgrade fever as I believe the equipment's capabilities far out shine my own and therefore a so-called better camera would do very little to improve my photos at this time. I am extremely curious how much the OSS is helping me though. I need to borrow a lens to find out.
I am also curious about that Zeiss 24mm.
That first image is the best photo I have ever taken and I'm really chuffed with it as generally any good photo I take is luck but with that one, I moved the girls a couple of times before I shot because I could see the light. I feel as if I'm making real progress. It seems that pretty girls make one a better photographer. Who knew?
I don't know much about post-processing. I'm using Aperture for OSX and the NIK plugins. Dfine for noise reduction and Silver Efex Pro for B&W conversion.
I'm a little embarrassed to post my photos here as I see so many beautiful images from you all, but your encouragement and constructive (and very kind) criticism has been so helpful for me.
I'm also embarrassed to post this particular post, as I don't see how any of my observations could help anyone here but maybe there is someone here as green as me.
Thanks again.