Welcome to the ACE Index, the
definitive web directory for locating
camera equipment, used cameras, photo labs, camera repair
and photo equipment manufacturers in 34 countries.
This is an archived message in our
forum
Posted by Ryan Fleming on July 26, 1999 at 11:21:31:
I work in a publications department at an independent school and we need to buy a new camera. We’re debating whether to get a SLR or go digital.
Most of our work is print (e.g. magazines, newsletters, and annual reports), although online publications are right around the corner. We demand very high quality and resolution, and we take a great deal of indoor photos as well as action photos. Some of our shots are used as cover photos that might be 8-1/2 x 11". I’ve seen lots of articles on digital cameras, but none comparing their virtues to those of a SLR or relating the debate to print publications.
Quality is our primary concern. Can a reasonably-priced digital camera produce a great-looking 8-1/2 x 11" cover shot without looking pixilated? Also, with a digital camera can we control depth of field and other quality factors as easily as with a SLR?
Cost is another factor. Right now we spend about $100 per month on processing, and we wonder if a digital camera can offset that price. Currently we use a UMAX scanner and Photoshop to scan and clean up our 35mm shots. Also, will we need to buy additional software for a digital camera?
Another concern is that our work will become increasingly online. Obviously digital photos are much quicker to post on a website (and resolution doesn’t need to be as high), but we can only afford one camera. Since we need quality for our print photos to begin with, is it more sensible to take the time to process and scan a 35-mm shot and then post it online?
Finally, I think there’s a timing issue. Are digital cameras now like VCRs were 20 years ago (high cost/low quality), or is quality available now at an affordable price? Should we buy a $600 SLR now only to have to go digital in a couple years? Will we soon be behind in terms of a good quality/cost balance if we get a good SLR now?
If you know where I can get more information on the SLR/digital debate (particularly in relevance to print media and publications), please get back to me. I’d also like to hear any thoughts you have. I’m responsible for making a good buying decision, so I’ll need to back up my recommendations with plenty of research. Thank you.
Regards,
Ryan Fleming
end of archived message
[ Post New Message ] [ View Current Messages ] [ FAQ ]