you should use like this..

by the way guys,anyone has links to websites where i can find specs on HVL-f42am.i googled it up but all i can find are websites SELLING it.how does it fare compared to Sunpak PZ42X?any major difference?

freaky_deity: u sure uve cleaned it properly? try on with other lens? coz i usually use a swab to clean my sensor.. tho obviously its not recommended.

freaky_deity : haha just send to Sony Center, kena bayar RM150 + RM20 for charges . but make sure u check properly after getting them back.

do u mean tone mapped HDR? or just HDR?
those with surreal effect are known as tone mapped HDR and it's easier to create them with software like Photomatix
i think photoshop has the automated merge to HDR tool but still, tone mapping has to be done separately

if just HDR, the latest alphas can do it in camera

RM20 for the checking fees ,u pay to get your gears checked first. then only proceed if whether u want to service/repair or not.
RM150 is for the service charge that includes cleaning service (must always remember this, always ask for cleaning service if you sent for servicing )

HDR : if easiest i would say in body function 
i dont think there is best way, the simple one is just to combine few of the same images with different exposure. the more complicated like evilhomura89 said is tone mapping. and there are more complicated ones which i dont know how but are really nice . like Dave Hill style