35mm Film Photography... ?!?

[riley.elizabeth]

Hello all!
I'm looking to purchase a 35mm film camera (am planning on learning to develop b&w in a darkroom this summer) but I have no idea where to start. I'm only 17... digital photography is all I've ever truly known (a pity, I know).

In summary: HELP!
thanks (:

[texkam]

Check CL. You can find 'em for pennies on the dollar. Perhaps look for a Canon model where you can use your existing lenses. The Canons have a different mount.

[janikphoto]

Yeah, if you have a 50d, I'd look at any film-based EOS model. This way you can keep using your current lenses. You could probably pick up an EOS1n body pretty cheap these days.

[TXFZ1]

Just my opinion but if you want to develop your own film then go big neg. You can find good MF equipment really cheap and a LF kit for approx 500 clams. This would be slightly more than just finding a 35mm body and using your existing lens. Welcome to the dark side!

Keh.com
Rangerfinderforum.com
apug.org
largeformatphotography.info

David

[Coogie]

As much as it pains me to say this, since you're a Canon user, you might as well stay with canon and the familiar controls and existing lenses. Like others have said, check craig's list. Also check bhphotovideo.com for their used section. You should be able to find a pro or semi pro camera for pretty cheap.

Just remember if you have lenses for your 50D that are specifically for the cropped sensor on there, ie- an 18-55mm type lens, it won't work right with a film camera so you might have to buy a full frame lens too like a 28-70mm.

[dwilliams35]

I think if I was going back to film at this point, I'd leave the 35mm and it's limitations behind and get something medium format, even an old Yashicamat or something else reasonable... That being said, the EOS lens issue has a lot of appeal..

[midlight21]

Check the buy and sell section here too. There are some film cameras that others are looking to sell.

[venchka]

Where's Wil? Pay no attention to him.

The possibilites are endless. Canon EOS-1 or Elan IIE are very nice full feature film bodies. With features you won't find on digital bodies. Add a 50/1.8 and find out what photography is all about.

Nikon film bodies and lenses are everywhere and cheap. A person could go far with a Nikon F3HP and 24mm-50mm-105mm lenses.

Medium format: The inventory boggles the mind.

I suggest you do some homework before rushing out and maybe wasting some money. Join APUG and The Rangefinder Forum. The members of those two forums either own or have used everyhting known to man. Almost everyday a question like yours is asked ans answered.

Good luck.

[venchka]

ps: There are lots of film folks in your neighborhood. Find a support group for film users.

[crackhead]

If you want utmost sharpness, consider a tripod and cable release. Film shooting requires a good sturdy tripod in way that digital does not..

[venchka]

Film doesn't require you to use an SLR type camera. Traveling light and fast with light, fast rangefinder cameras and lenses is another way to approach your craft.

[texxter]

Originally Posted by riley.elizabeth

Hello all!
I'm looking to purchase a 35mm film camera (am planning on learning to develop b&w in a darkroom this summer) but I have no idea where to start. I'm only 17... digital photography is all I've ever truly known (a pity, I know).

In summary: HELP!
thanks (:

See if you can find an Olympus OM-1 with a 50mm lens like this one - it's small, full manual, with a big, bright viewfinder, and great Zuiko lenses. They go for about $100 on Ebay. I own one and love it - but since I don't develop film much, I don't use it. But I can't let go off it.

[venchka]

Olympus OM cameras and lenses will do that to you. As will Canon EF bodies and lenses.

[popawalker]

I agree, I have an OM1, 2 OM2N's, and an OM10, with various OM lenses. Light, clear, and easy to use. I keep at least one loaded at all times.

[toverman]

Cool thing about the Olympus OM mounts are that they translate very well (with an adapter) for use on Canon digital SLRs.

Note that if you go with a Canon film SLR, you won't be able to use any EF-S lenses on it. I still own an Elan II I bought new when you were about 2 years old (gosh). It's a great, basic camera. The IIe adds the nifty eye-control focus.