Twelve tips for beginners
The advent of digital cameras divided photographers. In retrospect, total nonsense. Both segments have their advantages and disadvantages. Clearly, digital photography dominates, so it is all the nicer when photographers go back to analogue photography. What tips are there for beginners who want to start taking pictures on film?
Cheap camera and film
The first camera from Kodak was introduced in the 1880s. In the more than 140 years countless cameras were built. This fact benefits us today. You can choose from a wide range of cameras. So it is not difficult to find a suitable model for little money to get a taste of analogue photography. A 35mm camera can often be found for 1 Euro, sometimes even for free.
Of course you can also start with a medium format camera, but these are usually more expensive and also the price per frame is higher than for 35mm film.
The cheapest way to start is certainly a disposable camera. With this one you can play around without any obligations.
SLR with fixed focal length
A great introduction to analogue photography is a single lens reflex camera. Especially in Germany it is very easy to find a suitable model, because especially in the GDR many robust specimens were built. These can be found under the brands Praktica, Pentacon and partly also as Porst or Revue.
With an appropriate copy you can fill yourself directly back into the past. Add a fixed focal length, e.g. a 50 mm lens, and you have a wonderful combination for photography.
Depending on the model there is no light meter or an automatic exposure control. Adjusting aperture, exposure time and focus yourself can be a bit overwhelming in the beginning, but you have full control and learn an incredible amount.
fixed focal length instead of zoom
Why no zoom? Fixed focal length lenses offer a wider aperture and provide better quality for your money. They are easy to use, especially when you do everything manually, and you are more focused on the subject. If you do need to zoom, just take a few steps closer to your subject.
