|
|
|
-
 Originally Posted by elekm
Simpler is better, so start with an all manual camera. The one that gets mentioned the most often is the Pentax K1000, but I also like other Japanese models, including a Nikon FM or the Nikon FE (if you want autoexposure).
With most Japanese cameras, if it's from the 1980s or earlier, you'll want to have those foam seals replaced.
I would recommend the FG over the FM.....I'm switching from the FG to FE right now, and I think the features of the FG are great for the beginner yet allow you to grow as a photographer in terms of taking chances and learning all you can. The FM is a very limiting camera versus the FG, though still a great model. I'm beginning to dive into my FE and once again, I'm falling in love with experimentation on a more "oooo, this feature does this, that feature does that" level. The FE is definitely more advanced and does offer the semi-automatic feature with the MD-12. As for the K1000, you can never go wrong with these. This was my first SLR and I learned a great deal with it, but is very limiting to some degree.
-
Originally Posted by ntenny
You know, I've noticed that you almost never hear anyone say "I started with camera X, but it wasn't a very good starter and I wish I'd used camera Y instead". Everyone likes whatever their first "real" camera was. There must be exceptions, but there don't seem to be many of them.
From this I conclude that it doesn't much matter where you start, and that "get something that seems like a good idea at the time" is probably good general advice.
-NT
I was thinking about that when making my last reply....I was contemplating about jumping into a camera with a readily available and semi-cheap lens series. It got me thinking about jumping from Pentax to Nikon changed everything. For a little while, I did the whole "two cameras" thing, but eventually the Nikon won out and I almost want to say I wish I originally started with my FG than with the Pentax. At the same time, I am really happy to have used the Pentax and have it in my arsenal still. I might even bring it out once and awhile now.
-
Fujica 605 and Pentax Spotmatic are classic compact SLRs but weigh 20 ounces body only. Add 10 for a lens, and you're toting almost 2 pounds.
If you are talking available in your purse, I'd suggest a 35mm rangefinder: Konica C35, the Olympus RFs others have suggested, the little Rollei scale focus RF. What is your budget?
http://www.cameraquest.com/rol35se.htm
|
|
Adv Reply
