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| | | Though point-and-shoot film cameras are becoming less common thanks to the popularity of digital cameras, they are still readily available and some consumers prefer them for their simplicity and ease of use. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Quality film cameras cost between $75 and $750 or more, depending on the construction of the camera, its features and whether it is a point-and-shoot or a single-lens reflex (SLR) camera, which offers more creative flexibility with a detachable lens. Expect to pay more for a point-and-shoot with a zoom lens. Also, prices tend to be higher at independent camera stores, which offer personalized service and photography advice, and lower at chain stores where the sales staff usually are not photographers.
- Consumer Search offers a list of 35mm cameras that have received good reviews, including the $75 Olympus Stylus Epic, with a compact body and auto color balancing, the $90 Canon Sure Shot 130u, with a zoom lens and crisp picture quality, and the $260 Pentax Espio 24EW, with an aluminum body and a wide-angle lens.
- PopPhoto.com offers a list of SLR film cameras that have gotten good reviews, such as the $190 Canon EOS Rebel T2. And Consumer Search offers more good film SLR options, including the $410 Canon EOS Elan 7N and the $940 Nikon F100.
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| What should be included: | - Film cameras can come with a range of options, including different flash, focus and exposure modes.
- Best Buy offers a film camera buying guide that explains the various features.
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| Additional costs: | - Most cameras do not come with a padded carrying case, which is essential for protecting the camera while transporting it, and will cost about $25 or more. Also, film, photo processing and batteries will add to the cost.
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| Discounts: | - Tip: If there are a few brands you are considering, check the manufacturers' websites to see if they are offering any mail-in rebates.
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| Shopping for a camera: | - If not buying from a local, independent camera shop, then big retailers such as Best Buy offer fairly low prices. Online retailers such as Amazon.com often offer even lower prices, but without the convenience of in-person returns.
- Look for a camera that allows you to turn your flash on manually on a sunny day. This feature will not increase the cost of the camera, but will allow you to eliminate dark shadows on faces in certain photographs, such as a family portrait in front of a sunset.
- Steer clear of very cheap cameras in the $40-range and off-brands. Look for a camera that is built to last. It should have a glass lens, which provides clearer pictures and does not scratch as easily as plastic. Also, the inside parts - for example, the aperture - should be made of metal.
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Article updated November 2006 |
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