Frequently Asked Questions
What type of camera do I need/should I get? (Back to top)
This is probably the question that gets asked most often and is one of the questions that I am reluctant to answer.
I think that purchasing a camera is something that should be based on your personal objectives in photography. Do you want a point and shoot camera or an SLR camera that allows you more
creative options?; film or digital?; I’d rather provide you with information and allow you to decide based on what you feel is the best choice for you.If you are considering purchasing used, I’d avoid places like e-bay and purchase from a reputable dealer. Each of the following local dealers and repair shops in the Washington DC area have used equipment. Make sure they offer you a warranty. Pro Photo, Penn and Embassy also have new equipment for sale.Embassy Camera
Pro Photo
Penn Camera
Strauss Photo Technical Services
Here are some links that I hope will help you decide. If you are looking to learn all you can about creating photographs, I think that a SLR which can be operated in FULLY MANUAL MODE, meaning that you should be able to set the aperture, shutter speed and ISO independently, is your best choice. Regarding SLR brands, I feel that
As I mentioned above, Embassy Camera and Penn Camera sell new equipment and provide face to face customer service. If you don’t require a face to face purchase you can try B & H Photo, Adorama or KEH.com . Here’s some additional advice on where, and where NOT TO, buy a camera from Philip Greenspun.
Nikon offers a comprehensive camera “system” that a photographer can grow into, although many people find Canon a better choice.
What camera to buy- http://photo.net/equipment/what-camera-should-I-buy
Film or digital?
- http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/filmdig.htm
- http://www.tawbaware.com/film_digital.htm
- http://194.100.88.243/petteri/pont/Pontification/e_Film_versus_digital/a_Film_vs_digital.html
Digital Camera Reviews-” Where you’ll find all the latest in digitalphotography and imaging news, reviews of the latest digital cameras andaccessories, the most active discussion forums, a large selection of sample images,a digital camera buyers guide, side-by- side comparisons and the mostcomprehensive database of digital camera features and specifications. Webelieve in quality, original, unbiased content.”
I hope you found the information presented helpful.
Please contact me via phone if you have further questions.
Do I need a specific type of camera for the workshops. (Back to top)
For most workshops and excursions you need nothing more than an interest in creating better photographs and a camera. Any type of camera, from your most basic point and shoot to the most recent state of the art super-camera, will do. The only workshops that require a specific type of camera are the
Introduction to Photography and the Intermediate Photography Workshops; these workshops require a SLR or other type of camera that can be operated in fully manual mode. Fully manual mode means that you can change your aperture, shutter speed and ISO/ASA independently.
