Taking photography, and need help

Question

Okay, this year I'm taking Photography, and I'm wondering if I can use a Digital Camera, cause I spent over $300 on it, and I can't afford anything at the moment.

So like I said can I use a Digital Camera or it has to be film for Photography?

Answer 1

You will probably need a film camera, but don't buy one until you know for sure.  If you need film, you can get a decent camera, like the Pentax k1000 for $100 or less.  Talk to your teacher to find out what you need before buying anything else.

Answer 2

The first classes in photography are usually taught using film ... there are many reasons for this.

For under $150 a student can get a good used 35 mm SLR with a standard zoom lens and use it for the first four classes (craigslist in a city near you).  The instructor can analyze all the images on a roll of film and see what mistakes the student is making to help make corrections in their techniques to make sure that by the end of the class they have all the skills nailed down and are ready for the next, more advanced class.  35 mm SLR's are fully adjustable, unlike P&S cameras which are for the most part, automatic, so learning how to control exposure is problematic

I am surprised your course description did not include the type camera necessary for you to take the class or that you did not check with the instructor before you spent $300.

Answer 3

Of course you'd need to ask the instructor about the course requirements.  Digital is so ubiquitous that I suspect many courses probably allow it now, since that is how pictures are taken today.  If you do need a film camera though, you'd be amazed at how inexpensive second-hand equipment is now.  Look on Craigslist, or inquire with local professional photographers. If you are really an enthusiastic aspiring photographer, someone might even lend you or just give you a decent old film camera.  Good luck, and have fun.

Answer 4

Most classes require a manual SLR...but that was back in the day. Not sure about now. I would think a digital with manual control would do, since film is (considered) obsolete (or getting there). The D40's a good choice if you can go digital...they're getting cheaper, too.

Answer 5

Talk to the professor teaching the course, or check the course description.

It will vary from place to place and class to class.

  

Answer 6

That all depends on the professor that will teach your class.  Some photography classes want you to film because you learn the B&W process with developing your own film and negatives.  Other classes focus on the technique and composition aspect of photography.  

Using digital will only limit you with the negatives / developing and printing process, it should not affect anything else.  

If all else, talk to your professor. Sometimes, the schools have cameras you can borrow.  

Thanks for reading!

Answer 7

When I took Photography in college, digital was NOT allowed because it can very easily be altered on photo shop. I would definitely recommend a film camera, a Cannon AE1 if you can find one because then you can truly learn the 3 most important parts of photography: Shutter speed, focus, and F-stop. Most digital cameras have an auto setting and it makes it impossible to learn this stuff. Go to your nearest pawn shop or used camera shop and you should find an AE1 or an AE1P for a reasonable price. Besides, most photography classes teach you how to develop film and if you have a digital camera, you cannot develop film, now can you. Feel Free to contact me at gipsonfamily_wyo @yahoo,com if you have further questions

Answer 8

save your money and get a nikon d40 there a little pricey but dame good cameras.