Good film cameras?

Question:I start college this fall and I need a good slr for it. Don't want anything vastly expensive but it has to have complete manual control. Any suggestions?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I start college this fall and I need a good slr for it. Don't want anything vastly expensive but it has to have complete manual control. Any suggestions?

Look on craigslist in a city near you for a good used Nikon or Canon 35mm SLR with lens (under $200).

Samples from my area:

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/pho/607129...
http://phoenix.craigslist.org/pho/605879...
http://phoenix.craigslist.org/pho/599509...

You may find a good combination for even less if you have time to wait until one is offered for sale.

The reason of choosing newer used Nikon's or Canon's is that if you ever decide to go digital, you will already have lenses that will work with the appropriate DSLR

You should get a used Nikon or Canon camera with a 50mm lens. The lens should be F1.4 or F1.2 (allows you to photograph in lower light conditions). The Canon Rebel model for the body may be a good choice because if you stick with photography, you can get a digital version of the same camera body later and keep the same lens(es). It has full manual and automatic options. If you don't care about digital compatibility, any old, metal, all manual Nikon will be great, they last forever and many photo teachers recommend them. You should be able to get something great for around $200.

I recommend buying at KEH.com. If you give them a call they will help you find something for your needs. You can ask them to go look at the one you are considering to check out the condition. I've bought a lot of cameras and lenses from them and all have been in great condition. They are very honest. B&H is also good, although I find their prices to be higher. I definitely recommend buying from a store with a good reputation for used cameras. At both Keh and B&H they clean, inspect, repair and accurately rate conditions for all used equipment.

Nikon
N65 N80 N90s
FM10
Canon rebel Eos

Canon EOS Rebel was top of the line before digital came out.

I have one, and it's great.

The Pentax K1000 with a 50mm f1.7 lens has long been considered the best student camera. Just be sure to get the Owner's Manual with it.