Photographing with film cameras

July 2nd, 2013
I'm looking into buying a medium format film camera. Growing up in the digital era, I have no idea where to start. What does one have to consider when shooting film? What medium format film cameras would you recommend and why? Any and all help would be appreciated!
July 2nd, 2013
At the risk of sounding patronising (and meant with the very best of intent from someone that shoots film pretty often, at 35mm and MF - I have about 100 film cameras at last count)

Do not learn on medium format - learn on 35mm - you will pick up a camera for only a few pounds/dollars on ebay if you keep watch (last Practica SLR I got on ebay cost me £3.75/$5.70US - including postage) - and the films are massively cheaper to both buy and process.

Learn the art of film on 35mm - the equipment, mistakes and failures cost a lot less than medium format - but the successes can still be spectacular.

Once you've mastered (or at least got used to) film - then think about a medium format.

EDIT: (I see you are in Finland - so that £3.75 equates to 4.37 Euros)

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>>Feeling Blue - my 365 days of one colour

July 2nd, 2013
Haha, nice touch with the Euros. Upon researching the subject, I agree with you. Medium format, even in film, isn't cheap.
July 2nd, 2013
@valentinabramenkov - than you - but I thought working out you were in Finland was the really clever bit (as it's not in your profile) ...
July 2nd, 2013
@styru True, I forgot it wasn't mentioned. I applaud your investigative skills. :D On the other hand since this is the internet, information isn't impossible to find.
July 2nd, 2013
@valentinabramenkov - well to be honest it was only that you mention cycling to Porvoo in your shot on the 24th June - and the only Porvoo in the world is in Finalnd (and I only know that because I googled it)

I would say that was the dead give away - but if I'd just dug slightly deeper then the line " here in Finland" on the 15th June was an even bigger clue!!

Now - stop chatting - and go bid on a cheap film SLR or two on Ebay - have fun!
July 2nd, 2013
I have to agree wholeheartedly with @styru - I've been doing film for 30 years and recommend starting with 35 mm- you can get a decent SLR for a tenth of the price
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