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Photography FAQ's

1.         Do Students need to purchase a camera for this course?
A         NO. While the course description does state that ACCESS to a 35mm camera is mandatory, it does not have to be purchased. Students who do not have access, will be limited in the availability and usage time when signing out a camera owned by the school.

 2.         Are there cameras available from school for students to use?
A         YES. However each student must provide a parent/guardian signature to use. According to established guidelines, usage may be limited to class time, the school day or overnight only. In addition, depending upon the number of requests, students may have to wait for some time before it is their turn to use.

 3.         I’m interested in buying a camera. What kind should I buy?
A         This depends greatly on the purpose or goal of the user. Like purchasing a computer you should know what for (purpose) and how much you wish to spend. Basic questions to ask yourself include… How much am I willing to spend? (Salesmen will always try to get you to spend more!)   What will I do with the pictures? (Photo album, enlargements, displays/presentations, newsletters, web sites, email, etc…) What kind of user will I be? (Casual, Life-long hobby, Dedicated amateur, Content provider for publications, Future career path)

 4.         What types of cameras are there to choose from?
A         There are four basic types of cameras, Viewfinder, Single Lens Reflex (SLR), Twin Lens Reflex (TLR), and View. In addition there are two special categories, which would also fall into one of the above categories, Digital (No film) and Advanced Photo System (APS).

 5.         What is a Viewfinder camera?
A         A camera with two lens systems, (picture taking, and viewfinder). Generally has  limited, or no controls (Fixed aperture size, fixed shutter speed, No focus control). May fall into the digital or APS special categories.                       

  • Cost..... Least expensive (Disposables are this type of camera)

  • Image..... Low to Medium quality

  • User..... Casual user, Quick & easy Photos, Young children

  • Advantages..... Low cost, Point & shoot simplicity, Small size, Lightweight, Few moving parts.

  • Disadvantages..... No control over image variables, Low end image quality, Limited or no accessories.

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