Camera's, Tips, & Tricks
Photography completely changed my life. Finding a creative outlet that wasn’t just writing made all the difference for me. I love finding the beauty in things that sometimes are not averagely considered beautiful and above all, documenting history.
Of course, this also means I am a camera hoarder. My collection is relatively small but I have no doubt it would be larger if I had sufficient funds. Below I will discuss all the cameras I own and some tips along the way. Keep in mind I am most definitely an amateur and these are just my opinions. I will go in order when discussing the cameras above.
Polaroid Cool Cam 600- I consider this particular camera a collectors item and I don’t use it much. I got this vintage Polaroid off eBay a few years ago for probably less than a $100. Because it is from the 80’s, the pictures are not the best quality. They come out a little faded and gray. This might be different if you buy a refurbished one (linked above), however I can’t say for sure. Another downside is that Polaroid film is expensive! 8 photos costs $20 or more, depending on where you buy the film. Because of the costs and quality of the photos, I personally don’t recommend this camera if you want instant photos. I will talk about some better options below!
Canon Rebel T5i- This was the first camera I bought and the primary camera I use today to shoot digital. I highly recommend this as a starter camera if you are seriously thinking of getting into photography. Its easy to use and amazing quality. In the 3 years I’ve owned it, it has never done me wrong.
It is pretty expensive though. I recommend getting a refurbished one off the Canon website (linked above) as I did. It was around $100 cheaper than it usually is. They are about $800 and I think I paid $700 or even less for mine. If you do purchase this camera, read the instruction manual! As annoying as that sounds, it will make a world of difference if you actually know how to use your camera! The T5i comes with a lens kit but if you do want another lens to play around with, this zoom lens is fun to use. Here is another tip; buy your lenses off Craigslist! The lens I linked is $200, but I bought if off Craigslist new in the box for $150. $50 is $50 ya’ll.
Pentax K1000- The Pentax is my baby. I bought it off eBay a few years ago and it completely revolutionized how I saw photography. I mostly like using film now, especially when I’m on vacation and visiting somewhere I’ve never been to. When doing research on finding a good starter camera for film, the Pentax K1000 kept coming up and with good cause. It’s relatively inexpensive, sturdy, and easy to use.
The Pentax K1000 has not been made since 1997, so eBay or even a thrift shop would be your best bet in finding one. Do NOT spend more than $100 on it. On average, it should cost you between $60-$80. Buying this camera took patience. I would have to constantly check eBay. They are purchased pretty quickly, especially if they are in good condition.
When you get your camera, make sure your light meter works! If not, get your light meter battery replaced. There is a small circle at the bottom of the camera where the battery goes in. If you go to a camera store, they will be able to replace the battery for you. I went to Paul’s Photo in Torrance (more about them later) and they only charged me for the price of the battery ($5). To get a complete rundown on how to use the Pentax K1000, watch this video . YouTube is an amazing source to learn how to use things, especially cameras.
A great place to buy film and other photography supplies is B&H Photo . A photography professor recommended the site and I have been using it ever since to buy film. I noticed film was more expensive in stores than me buying it online and paying a low fee for shipping. This Kodak Gold film is my favorite to use. It’s inexpensive and amazing quality. So you have your film, how do you put it in and take it out? These two videos on loading and and unloading film have helped me so much and will help you too!
For getting film processed, I go to Paul’s Photo . For $10, they develop the photos and send you a downloadable link through your email with the photos. They also give you your negatives. Because I mostly put my photos online, this works best for me. I am not sure how much it costs to get them printed but I do know that they can. If you do not want to commit to buying the Pentax K1000 but want to try out film, buy a disposable camera! They are available in most drug stores or you can also buy one here.
Fujfilm Instax Wide 300- This is an instant camera that is bulky and heavy but takes great photos that are pretty large. Prices vary but the camera itself will cost you $100 or less. Amazon sells packages with the camera, film, and other accessories for $130 or less. Film is also way cheaper than the Polaroid. $15 will give you 20 photos. I highly recommend the Instax Wide if you don’t mind the size and weight of it.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9- This is my top for instant cameras! Its tiny and both film and the camera itself are inexpensive. It also comes in cute colors. I have boxes full of tiny instant photos I’ve taken through the years of my friends and I. If you want something that is easy to lug around, definitely get this one. Although the photos are tiny, they are still good quality. Like the Instax Wide, Amazon sells packages that come with the camera, film, and accessories. In the long run, these save you money so I recommend you get one of those!
I apologize for this post being so long but there was a quite a bit to explain! Let me know if there is anything ya’ll would like to know about cameras or photography. Again, I am only an amateur but I hope this post helps anyone looking to get started in photography or just wanting a new camera. Until next time!
