What's a reliable yet cost-efficient MANUAL camera for high school photography class?

Question

I'm taking photography class next year. Can't wait!

Answer 1

The answer to that question is sooooo easy.  Pentax K-1000 hands down.    Most all teachers will accept it and in fact recommend it.   Most easy and most reliable for students to use.  Other acceptable brands are Canon AE-1,  Nikon FE... and these are good too.

Answer 2

If you are forced to buy a film SLR then the Pentax k1000 is a legend.

One significant Pentx advatage is any lenses you acquire are useable on modern Pentax Digital SLRs so your money is not wasted.  

http://digital-photography.suite101.com/...

Answer 3

Pentax K1000. Buy it with the 50mm f1.7 lens and the Owner's Manual and you're good to go.

Buy a copy of "Object & Image: An Introduction To Photography, Third Edition" by George M. Craven and you'll be well-prepared for your classes.