Hi, I had juz bought an APS SLR Camera,CAnon IX, i guess... how does it compare to other 35mm film camera and how can i optimize the potential of the camera, if there's any, coz i'm juz a beginner in photography.. Thanks.

-- Liling (faezx@chickmail.com), June 04, 2000

Answers

Other than smaller in size, APS is for easy storage and retrieval of your negatives and the rare usage of screening it on you TV screeen. If u wanna maximise its potential, then cough up more money for the accessories of scanners and connecting to your TV. And keep sending your films to the labs for reprint.
Stupid and not practical, isn't it? Well, that was your investment decission.

-- Wee Keng Hor (weekh@singnet.com.sg), June 05, 2000.

Let's not worry about the investment decision as it has already been made. The thing now Liling, is to try and maximize the camera that you already have. What I like about APS is the ability to use the different formats for different picture taking situations. I especially like the panoramic format and I have managed, sometimes, to achieve pretty good results when taking landscapes. Yes, it is expensive to maintain the APS format as developing and printing is expensive. Accessories are also expensive but, and that was what Keng Hor was trying to say, having made the investment, you will just have to maximize it. What you can do, to save some cost, is to print only the index print when you first develop the roll, and then select only the pictures you want printed. My experience with APS thus far, apart from the cost, has been quite pleasant. Have fun!!!

-- Benjamin Yap (ben@mostly.com), June 05, 2000.

Hi, I have an APS SLR and compared to my friends Cannon 300 (35mm) my photos quality is VERY MUCH BETTER... it's true, but just like ANY camera, to get the best you need to buy accessories, and unless you can develop yourself you still have to send off for reprints!!!! APS's use the batteries more quickly than most cameras... but as long as the shots are good then what's it matter ay!? Have a great time with the camera... I think it was a great choice!!!

-- Debra (derby411_99@yahoo.com), July 01, 2001.