BLANK (BLACK) PICTURES

Yes this is a common problem. Set the camera to take a long exposure shot (5 seconds) and with the lens off take a photo. Can you see the ccd or just the shutter (black)? If its just the shutter the shutter is jammed. It's basically a question of persisting with rebooting the camera and taking shots until the shutter frees itself.

I'm not sure why Sony was no help. This issue, commonly referred to as "Black Frame" is often repaired out of warranty at no charge by Sony. You may want to call them back, and specifically refer to the issue as the "Black Frame" problem!

Good Luck

Comment has it exactly right. It is not the shutter but is the "First Black Frame" issue. Sony was able to repair my camera for free under the previously stated Minolta warranty.