How to Choose a Combination Film and Digital Camera

Although they are not common, cameras that use both film and digital photography do exist. Cameras that combine digital functions with traditional film offer the best features of both technologies, and allow the photographer to choose which technique best suits the specific circumstance. Here is how to choose a combination film and digital camera.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A Spending Budget
• An Idea of How You Will Use the Camera

How to Choose a Combination Film and Digital Camera

1. Decide if you will need instant prints. If so, you may wish to look into the Polaroid I-Zone. The I-Zone features the instant print capability that traditional Polaroid cameras offer. However, the I-Zone also has 1MB of non-removable memory. This is enough space to store an additional 18 photos in digital format, which can be downloaded onto your computer via a serial cable (included).

2. Determine if a disposable, single use camera is more along the lines of what you need. If so, try looking into the Kodak PlusDigital. The PlusDigital is not technically a combination film and digital camera, but it does achieve the same result, because your print photos are accompanied by a CD-Rom that contains digital pictures. This is a good option for those who rarely take pictures and just want a cheap option.

3. Decide if you require a full-featured camera. If so, then the best combination film and digital camera for you is the Panoramic Vision 16. The Vision 16 has all of the features of both film and digital cameras, including red eye reduction, a self timer, motorized film advance, and so on. It even packs a radio for your listening enjoyment. The downside is that it is a power hog. It requires two AA batteries for the basic use, and three AAA batteries for some of the advanced features.

Tips & Warnings

• Combination film and digital cameras are rare. The good news is that it is easy to come up with a short list of current models so that you can compare them and more easily choose a camera that suits your needs.
• Digital photography uses a lot of power. Do not waste your time with regular alkaline batteries because they will not last very long. Although Lithium batteries cost more, they last much longer and will save you money in the long run.