What camera should i use for my Photo I class?

Question

I'm going to be developing my own film, specifically b&w photos. So should I get a digital camera or a regular camera with film?

Answer 1

If you're developing film, I'd go with a film camera.

I like vintage Olympus or Nikons for film. Try ebay or craigslist, see if you can find one. Failing that, go to a photo supply store and see if they have any rebuilt or repaired vintages for sale. They can run a little more expensive in stores, but if you're lucky you'll find a good one for less than the (crappier in my opinion) new film ones.

Make sure you get a manual focus camera, with interchangeable lenses. If you go the vintage route, try to buy a camera which comes with at least two lenses, a telephoto and a standard. That way you'll at least have those two to start with, and won't have problems finding more.

I don't like built in flashes, but that's your call. One way or the other, get one with a mounting place for flash, so you can buy a decent flash if you want one.

DON'T GET A POINT AND SHOOT. They don't have enough options as far as apature and shot length and whatnot is concerned, and they promote poor techical habits.

I know these run expensive, but if you like photography, you won't regret spending more. Trust me.

If you're getting a digital, get a good one. Again, you'll be spending more, a LOT more, but it's worth it. Point and shoots aren't artistic, you don't get as many options with them, but they are fun.

Again, I'd go for something nice like a Nikon d-40, because that has the same interchangable lenses and whatnot as a manual focus, but it runs really expensive. They're like six hundred dollars. I'm saving for one.

They're so worth it, it's not even funny.

Good luck and happy trails!

Answer 2

you would be needing a 35mm slr because the instructor would be giving you different assignments on where you would be needing to use different settings where point and shoot cameras typically don't offer the settings that you would be needing. It's really difficult to develop film in the dark room with photos that were taken with a digital camera

Answer 3

If you are developing your own B&W film, odds are you will be asked to get or borrow a good 35mm traditional camera. If you want to learn more, then get one with manual adjustments for shutter speed, f/stop, focus etc. Check the closets of grandparents, and aunts and uncles. Many have old Nikons and Pentax's laying around. If you buy or borrow and old 35 mm camera, like a Pentax K1000, check the foam seals and the foam used to "catch" the mirror when it bounces up. Often the foam has gone bad and acts like rubber cement. You can get good seal repair kits on ebay.

Answer 4

usually the first day of class the instructor will give you the requirements. i took the course before digital cameras were all the rage and i simply borrowed a good quality adjustable non-SLR type camera. got an A. don't buy a camera before you know what is expected.

Answer 5

2 points. Take your digital camera.