This text is copyrighted © 2001 by David Haardt, Linz, Austria. All rights reserved world-wide. No reproduction of any form allowed. Any violation will be prosecuted.
Table of Contents
A. The Choice
When you want to buy a camera, you have to decide between certain film formats and camera types. A larger film (negative resp. chrome) size always delivers better prints (because of the lower enlargement ratio needed), on the other hand larger film means heavier and less convenient equipment. Ansel Adams, a famous b/w photographer said, take the largest format you can handle. That's actually a good advice. The camera types however cannot be put into a hierarchy. They all have their very own advantages and disadvantages. This text shall give you some ideas to find a personal solution for yourself.
B. Film Formats (note: you can also view the old version of the film formats page)
APS Format
35mm Format
Medium Format
Large Format
C. Camera Types
Viewfinder Cameras
Rangefinder Cameras
Reflex Cameras (TLR and SLR)
Ground-Glass Cameras
D. Most Common Film Format/Camera Type Combinations
35mm SLR Cameras
35mm Rangefinder Cameras
Medium Format SLR Cameras
Medium Format TLR Cameras
Medium Format Rangefinder Cameras
Large Format Ground Glass Cameras
E. About Lenses
G. About Film
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