I have a question..

[Godschica]

Recently, I've become very interested in photography...my problem? all I really know is how to take a picture

I plan on taking a photography class in spring at the community college here. But I think they only have a digital photography class.

What Im wondering is, should I learn digital photography? or just use a camra with film? maybe both?? And which is better for taking scenery pictures. You see, I'm kinda considering being a photographer for my career. But I'm just not sure which would be better for that.

I hope this isnt too confusing or anything. Thanks

 

[Southern Cross]

If I were considering photography as a career at any age, I'd go digital. Wait a minute, it already is my career, LOL!

In the world of photography - and professional photography in particular - film is fading away. Why strive to understand a medium that will have no value as you pursue a career in photography or some related field? Digital is where it's at, kid. And I do not say that lightly. I actually miss shooting film. But I can't think of one professional photographer that who shoots film anymore unless it's just for kicks.

As for local community colleges, some force you to use film cameras, which I think is totally bogus and it's usually the result of (a) tight budgets that don't allow them to transition to a digital darkroom, (b) an instructor or program chairman who is still stuck back in the film days or (c) some odd idea that learning film photography actually teaches you to be a better digital photographer (ummmm, no).

That said, I would run far away (RUN, FOREST, RUN!) from a community college that expects students to master film before moving to digital. Unless you really want to learn classic darkroom techniques, which can be very rewarding and fun.

Ultimately, you need to first connect with the school you plan on taking photogrpahy classes at. They have the final say in the type of camera you can bring to classes.

Too bad you are not in Florida. I've actually been looking for an assistant for beach shoots, weddings, etc.

 

[Godschica]

Hehehe okay, thanks! I really appreciate it

Well this community college is only giving digital photography classes, so I guess Im going to the right place then

What kind of camra would you recomend?

Too bad you are not in Florida. I've actually been looking for an assistant for beach shoots, weddings, etc.

Oh dude! I would love to do that! yeah it is too bad I dont live in florida

 

[Southern Cross]

Well, as for cameras, there are so many good models out there that it's difficult to suggest one brand over another. Often, it's your budget that determines what kind you will buy.

Just starting out, I'd go for iether a Nikon D70S or Canon 30D. They're both excellent cameras. You can also find used Canon 10D and 20D cameras in beautiful shape for reasonable prices, and the same goes for the Nikon D70. Even the older Fuji S2 Pro camera (they take Nikon lenses) are very good. I have seen them in near new condition go for $400-$500, and they produce beautiful images.

You really need to sit down and determine a budget for a camera, lens and 1-2 CF cards. Then you have to make sure you have a decent enough computer to run image editing software.

There are other cheaper digital cameras out there that do a great job. Canon has a point-n-shoot line - called the S2 or S3 I think. They're worth exploring. For classes, you just need to make sure you have full manual control over the camera.

 

[sunshiinedays]

Digital is definitely the way to go, everything is computerized nowadays, plus it will save you a bundle, only printing the photos you want, and being able to delete the others. If you plan to pursue photography as a career or seriously I would recommend getting an SLR. If not, then purchasing a higher end non-SLR would probably meet your needs.

There are other cheaper digital cameras out there that do a great job. Canon has a point-n-shoot line - called the S2 or S3 I think. They're worth exploring. For classes, you just need to make sure you have full manual control over the camera.

I have a Canon Powershot S3 IS. It is not an SLR but is fully manual as well as point and shoot. And I still have the option of several lens attatchments anyway. I'm very pleased with this camera.

 

[Godschica]

Thank you both very much

I appreciate it.

If you plan to pursue photography as a career or seriously I would recommend getting an SLR. If not, then purchasing a higher end non-SLR would probably meet your needs.

I do plan on pursuing it as a career. Thanks

 

[Boss_BlueAngels]

Oh man, as it's already been said... DIGITAL!

I shot film for the last four years at airshows and can't even believe how expensive that was. I got a DSLR last April and I've re-fallen in love with photography since then.

And again, in repetition, if you cannot afford a DSLR, at least get a digital fixed lens that allows manual settings. At this point the most important thing for you to do is just get out and take pictures! As many as you can, and try as many different things as you can.

Also, you can start by doing a little bit of research on concepts/principles at different websites. One that helped me a lot is www.dpreview.com.

In addition to those, start posting your pictures online to see what advice people offer for improvement. It may be a bit harsh at the beginning, but trust me, it'll be for the better! I certainly have had my fair share of harsh critiques!

Good luck!