Digital Cameras like film?

I sometimes have an opinion of certain ideas I read and in this article I review an idea presented by a PC Photo Magazine author.

I read a recent article posted on the PC Magazine website the other day. The title of the article caught me off guard “The Camera is the Film” so I read it. The author John C Dvorak suggests that each digital camera today and yesterday acts much like different film emulsions, some grainy, some brilliant in color, and others more natural. As we replaced film with CCD’s these cameras have taken on unique characteristic. Our film provided these characteristics at one time. He also suggests we should rethink about using multiple and older digital cameras in our arsenal of photographic tool belts as we did at one time with film.

I was wondering what your thoughts are on this subject. Do you agree that today’s digital cameras are like different film emulsions? Would you consider reusing older camera styles? If so why?

I do not agree with John Dvorak. I feel his observation is correct (a little late to discover this) but not practical for most average shooters. We have so many tools at our disposal in software, hardware and RAW files the possibilities are endless with current technology. If a photographer would like to create a certain look they have more efficient software controls for their creation. With the use of filters and simple adjustments photographers can use faster and higher quality cameras and still achieve their goal. His idea suggests a regression in evolution of technology.

Assuming you work to pay for your equipment, I think you would agree with me, the reason you bought the new digital camera was to improve workflow, speed, and control. I would even suggest that you dislike carrying more gear than you have too. If digital cameras were really like film, they would be convenient to transport and not cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. As he points out, he is not an average shooter. He has access to possibly hundreds of digital cameras at his disposal with no cost to him most of us do not.

Does each camera have certain characteristics? Yes. Can these be controlled and manipulated? Yes. Do old cameras still take good pictures? Again the answer is yes. Does this suggest that we should carry multiple and older cameras like film? My answer is no. Let us be smart and utilize the more efficient tools of today.

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Posted by chad on 03:02, April 6 2005

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