Simviation Forums

I'm taking a photography class this year and I am wondering what kind of camera to begin with...she says we can use film, clickngo easy digitals and DSLR's. Now, I was looking on newegg and say a series of cameras called SLR likes, :-? are those like DSLR's but not as high quality? Can someone suggest an acceptable camera for under or around $150? Fill me in here

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6830122110

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[quote]http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16830122110

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Film SLRs are just as good as DSLRs, generally speaking... if you really want to learn about the basics of photography, get yourself a totally manual 35mm SLR; they're dirt cheap nowadays.

Consider a second-hand one...I have a 60s-vintage Canon FT QL ("quick load") that I really like... the stock lens that comes with that model is superb, and the camera can do whatever you need it to do.

Further to Sean's 2 replies I would advise getting a film SLR. Firstly they are dirt cheap nowadays, especially if you get an old canon which uses FD lenses (also dirt cheap and there are loads of them about). It will give you a greater understanding of photographic processes and if you have access to a darkroom you can have loads of fun processing your pics aswell

I started by playing around with my mum's Nikon SLR (I forget the model) and that's what got me into photography in such a way that warranted buying a dSLR (more expensive, but more convenient in some ways......)

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Film dSLR's may be dirt cheap, but film and developping becomes more and more expensive. That's the main disadvantage of this type of photography, but as they say, probably the best way to learn.

Digital dSLR's offer better "practice" value, as you don't have to develop anything before you see results, hence it's easier to see your progress or mistakes. But you shouldn't lose sight composition and lighting, just because you can take tons of pictures for nothing. A good photographer knows what he wants and gets it in just a few shots.

Digital also means higher prices to start. You may find older bodies ( with good quality) for aceptable prices, but it's the lenses that'll kill your wallet, if you seek quality.

The bridges you refer too are cheaper and have a build on lens that can't be exchanged, but you'll never get the image-quality and adaptability of a dSLR. But they offer the same type of adjustable settings, so they can teach you a lot.

Just set yourself a "realistic" budget and see what you can get. Don't expect majot quality for $100. That may sound harsh, but it'll save you a disappointment in the end.  

I would find out if this is a digital or film class.  I am taking a film class (4X5 negatives) and digital cameras are not allowed

[quote]I would find out if this is a digital or film class.