Help choosing a non-digital camera?

Question

I've recently become very interested in amateur photography. This interest started after I looked at some random polaroid shots on flickr or some other similar site.

There's just one thing I need to do: Buy a camera. I have an old Land Camera from the early 50s that belonged to my Grandfather but I'm afraid it wouldn't be too reliable and it's not something I'd want to mess up. So I either want to buy another Polaroid camera or another older camera. I'd also like to mention that I don't like the 'throw-aways' that much; I think it's the dimensions of the film that bugs me. I also don't reallly want to do anything digital.

I'd appreciate any suggestions on Cameras, film, or anything else. Feel free to send me a message and thanks for your help.

Answer 1

This is a great time to pick up a top of the line 35mm camera with lenses. All the fuss about digital has caused people to deem thier excellent tools as out of date. Supplies for the darkroom are increasing in cost but whole darkrooms with enlargers etc. are selling dirt cheap. it is a good time to get into this excellent  art form.

Answer 2

What I would suggest is looking into going to thrift stores and flea markets.  I personally have bought around 12 cameras from thrift stores and flea markets, and the cameras usually cost me around $20ish.  Some of the more notable cameras I've gotten were a Canonet GIII QL17, a Pentax K1000, a Canon AE1, and an Ansco Anscoset.  All of those cameras were in good working condition.  

I've also found plenty of oldish Polaroid Land Cameras, including the 210, 215, 230, 440, the Minute Maker, and The Reporter.  Good news about these is that there is a replacement film for them.

If you have any questions, just let me know.

Answer 3

canon or some such brand. You want a 35mm single reflex camera which allows you to control the exposure times etc. these cameras take 35mm, color or b/w film and offer the most flexibility to be creative, and great quality photographs when you master them. Go to a good camera shop and ask questions.