View finder is blocked by a screen that appears to be part black and stripes lower right hand corner appears bat-like black

Look at page 16 of the user manual. You probably have the histogram set to display: it's a really useful tool when you learn how to use it which helps you to get the exposure levels as you want them instead of what the camera thinks you want.

To cancel the histogram (and alter how much other information is displayed) press the "DISP." (display) button located to the lower left of the thumbpad.

I hope that I've helped you; if so please let me know by rating my answer. If not, then post further comments to help identify the problem with reference to the user manual and I'll try again.