We frequently post tutorials from Danish landscape pro Mads Peter Iversen, sharing his in-camera techniques for shooting impeccable images, which is why the tutorial below is a departure. Today he discusses five “crucial” editing technique that he says, “will change how you edit landscape photos.”
That’s a bold claim but we encourage you to pay close attention to this episode, because the workflow you’ll learn has the potential to be a real game changer. Iversen admits that post-processing can’t save a “mis-mismanaged” photo. That said, he’s confident that the image-editing techniques he demonstrates today will transform a good image into a great one.
This is comprehensive 20-minute lesson, so recommend taking a few notes for future reference. Whether your goal is to create a unique effect, or just achieve a natural look with the best possible representation of what you saw through the viewfinder, there’s a good chance Iversen has you covered.
Iversen’s methods can be accomplished in Lightroom, Photoshop and Adobe Camera Raw, and he begins by explaining how to use new masking tools and simple sliders to selectively enhance a sky, foreground, or both. As you’ll see, a quick click of a button enables you to quickly switch between the two.
Turning to global adjustments, Iversen explains one thing he always does at the onset. This quick trick involves selecting Optics on the bottom right of the screen and choosing the Profile Correction and Remove Chromatic Aberration options in the panel. You’ll learn why this is a simple but important step in his process.
You’ll also learn how easy it is to add Color Contrast for dynamic Golden Hour shots, an effective solution for enhancing images captured in flat light, and a foolproof method for eliminating ugly white lines along edges of objects.
If you’ve watched Iversen’s videos in the past, you know he’s a strong advocate of “respecting the atmosphere.” Therefore, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that he has several tricks for enhancing or adding atmosphere to images that are lacking.
Iversen has a few more secrets to divulge, including a quick way to fix wide-angle distortion and the best way to sharpen images—depending upon whether you intend to print them, post them online, or present them in other ways. He adds two “bonus tips” as he concludes, so be sure to watch until the end.
Are you looking for the best photographers to follow on Instagram? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We have compiled a list of 30 incredible photographers from all over the world who specialize in different types of photography such as landscape, portrait, street, wildlife and more.
Each photographer has a distinct style that makes them an outstanding figure amongst their peers. Discover which one is your favorite by reading our comprehensive guide about some of the best photographers on Instagram.
Landscape Photography
Landscape photography is one of the most popular forms of photography, and it’s no wonder why. From dazzling sunsets to verdant forests and stately mountain peaks, the opportunities for captivating photos are endless. Instagram is full of talented landscape photographers who share their work with the world, inspiring us all to get out and explore nature. Check out these amazing Instagram landscape photographers who are sure to motivate you to get your camera and start snapping away.
Krystle Wright (@krystlewright) has an eye for capturing epic moments in her shots. She often takes photos from extreme angles or perspectives, giving her images an added level of drama and beauty. Her landscapes range from snow-capped mountains to remote beaches – each one more beautiful than the last.
Tommy Clarke (@tommy_clarke) specializes in aerial photography – capturing landscapes from high above using drones or helicopters. His unique perspective gives his images a surreal quality that’s hard to find elsewhere. He also captures some amazing seascapes too.
Sebastião Salgado (@sebastiaosalgado_official) is known for his black-and-white photographs which capture both grandeur and intimacy within his compositions. His work has been featured around the world at exhibitions as well as books he has published himself such as ‘Genesis’ which documents untouched parts of our planet through stunning visuals.
Ansel Adams (@anseladamsphoto) was an American photographer best known for his iconic black-and-white prints depicting scenes across America’s national parks like Yosemite Valley or Yellowstone National Park . Even today, over 50 years after he passed away ,his photographs still inspire millions around the globe .
Vincent Laforet (@vincentlaforet )is another masterful landscape photographer whose works show off his talent behind the lens . With every shot ,he manages to capture both grandiosity and emotion within them – making them truly captivating pieces worthy enough to hang up on any wall .
These five photographers alone demonstrate just how much potential there is when it comes to taking great landscape photos. Their work is sure to motivate, be it a beginner or an expert.
Photography of scenery is an alluring craft which permits shutterbugs to take remarkable sights of the natural environment. Portrait photography offers an opportunity for creative expression, allowing photographers to focus on capturing individual personalities and emotions in their images.
Portrait Photography
Capturing the personality and beauty of a person is one of the most popular genres in photography, making it a challenge for even experienced photographers. Capturing a person’s individual characteristics and loveliness can be a tricky task for even the most skilled photographers. Here are some of the best portrait photographers on Instagram that you should follow to get inspired:
Ben Lowy (@benlowy) – Ben is a portrait and photojournalism photographer who is also a pioneer of cell phone photography. He carries with him an SLR, a film camera, and and iPhone and uses them all to capture his famous images.
Jeff Rojas, a NYC-based shooter with an emphasis on fashion, lifestyle and portraiture photography, is the person behind @jeffrojas. He’s also well-known for his workshops where he teaches aspiring photographers how to capture beautiful portraits using natural light sources like windows or sunlight outdoors.
Kat Irlin (@kat_in_nyc) – Kat is a Russian born photographer specializing in fashion and lifestyle, who originally started out in finance, has a following of millions and has worked for Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Calvin Klein, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Paper.
Paulina Duczman (@paulinaduczman), a highly acclaimed Polish artist, is renowned for her work that often combines surreal landscapes with intimate portraiture. Models featured in her photographs are seen donning colourful costumes and intricate makeup looks created by Paulina or other artists she regularly collaborates with such as Pat McGrath Labs (@patmcgrathreal). Paulina’s work has been widely celebrated and showcased in renowned art galleries such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), further affirming her skill as a photographer. Keywords: Award-winning, Intimate Portraiture, Surreal Landscapes, Colorful Costumes
Sebastian Kim (@sebkimstudio) is a Korean American fashion photographer who has shot campaigns for brands such as Gucci, Nike, Louis Vuitton, YSL Beauty and Dior Homme. His signature style combines vibrant colors and strong lighting techniques resulting in powerful visuals that captivate viewers worldwide.
Portrait photography is a creative expression that enables the artist to encapsulate someone’s essence and feelings in one shot. Conversely, street photography documents the spontaneity of life in urban environments.
Street Photography
Street photography is a style of shooting that focuses on recording everyday life and the individuals within it, often in an unposed manner. It’s a great way to capture candid moments, as well as urban scenes and cityscapes.
One of the top street photographers on Instagram is Danila Tkachenko (@d.tkachenko.studio). His photos are characterized by vibrant colors, interesting angles, and unique perspectives. He often takes shots from unusual places like rooftops or high up in trees to get his signature look.
Another great street photographer is Michael Ernest Sweet (@michaelernestsweet). He has an eye for capturing powerful images with bold contrasts and vivid colors. His photographs focus on capturing emotion in his subjects through their expressions or body language while also highlighting social issues such as poverty or homelessness.
Manny Ortiz (@mannyortiz) is another excellent street photographer who creates beautiful compositions using light and shadows in creative ways. He uses reflections off windows or other surfaces to create abstract art pieces that evoke emotions when you view them.
Caleb Cole (@calebxcole) stands out among street photographers due to his use of color palettes that pop against darker backgrounds which draw attention to details such as facial expressions, clothing choices, etc., making him one of the most sought after portraitists on Instagram today.
Kevin Russ (@kevinruss) combines documentary style photography with surrealism creating striking images with an ethereal feel about them – often featuring animals like horses roaming wild across vast landscapes which gives viewers a sense of freedom when looking at his work.
Finally, we have Szymon Brodziak (@szymonbrodziak_official), whose works feature bright neon lights contrasting against dark city streets giving off an almost futuristic vibe when viewed together. The energy he captures through long exposures makes each shot feel alive even if there is no human presence visible in it, making him one of the best night-time shooters around right now.
Street photography is an excellent way to document the charm of life’s mundane moments and narrate tales through images. Conversely, wildlife photography offers us the unique opportunity to visually document nature’s marvels in ways that surpass verbal descriptions.
Wildlife Photography
Capturing the majesty and variety of wildlife, photography has become a distinctive art form. It requires patience, skill, and dedication to capture animals in their natural habitats. Instagram is a great platform for budding wildlife photographers to share their art and connect with fellow nature enthusiasts. Here are some of the top wildlife photographers on Instagram who will inspire you to pick up your camera and explore the wild.
First up we have @nickbrandtphotography – Nick Brandt is one of the most renowned names in wildlife photography today. His stunning images feature African landscapes populated by majestic creatures such as elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and more. Nick has released four books, including “On This Earth” (2005), “A Shadow Falls” (2008), “Across The Ravaged Land” (2013) and “Inherit The Dust” (2016), that showcase his photography and passion for conservation. Nick’s passion for conservation shines through his photographs which make us think twice about our relationship with nature.
Next we have @davidyarrow – David Yarrow has made a name for himself photographing exotic species from all over the world including polar bears in Svalbard or jaguars in Brazil. His award-winning photos capture powerful moments between humans and animals as well as stunning vistas showcasing Mother Nature at her finest. In addition to being an incredible photographer he also uses his platform to raise awareness around endangered species issues which makes him even more admirable.
Finally there’s @brianskerry – Brian Skerry specializes in underwater photography which gives us an amazing glimpse into life beneath the sea surface – something few people ever get to experience first hand. His portfolio features sharks, whales, dolphins seals & much more swimming freely amongst coral reefs & kelp forests making it easy to forget you’re looking at a photograph rather than real life footage. He often works alongside scientists researching marine ecosystems giving him access not only beautiful imagery but valuable insight into ocean conservation efforts too.
From grandiose landscapes full of animal herds or intimate portraits showing individual personalities, wildlife photography can be incredibly rewarding if done right. So why not take some inspiration from these talented individuals and start snapping away? Continually strive to hone your skills and refine your technique, as this is the key to success.
Wildlife snappin’ is a testing and gratifying type of art that demands calmness, savvy, and capability. Macro photography takes this to the next level by allowing photographers to capture intricate details in nature with incredible precision.
Macro Photography
Macro photography is a specialized form of photography that captures images on a very small scale. From the intricate details of insects and plants to the delicate beauty of jewelry, macro photographers have an eye for capturing the smallest things in life. Here are Instagram’s top macro photographers who will take your breath away with their stunning shots:
@skokowskipawel_nature – Pawel Skokowski is a great nature macro photographer specializing in insects and other small creatures. He uses a fast macro lens and otherwise accessible accessories to capture very colorful and detailed photos of his subjects.
@daveyvisuals– Davey Visuals captures incredibly detailed photographs using extreme magnification techniques – giving us glimpses into worlds we never knew existed before now.
@krystlejwright– Krystle Wright’s passion lies in shooting aerial landscapes from high above – allowing her to capture vast views not usually seen by humans unless they’re flying over them themselves.
@reugelsmarkus- Markus Reugels is a master at capturing moving macro water images such as droplets and colored liquids. He utilizes a complex setup with strobe lighting, a high ISO camera, and a computer to control it all. His liquid creations are more like sculptures frozen in time than the quick events we are used to seeing.
Macro photography provides a novel opportunity to uncover the delicate intricacies and textures of diminutive objects, enabling us to perceive their elegance in ways not achievable by other means. With night photography, we can take this exploration even further by using long exposure techniques to capture stunning images of our world after dark.
Night Photography
Shooting in the dark can be a daunting challenge for even veteran photographers. Though challenging, experienced shutterbugs can create stunning nighttime shots with the correct strategies and equipment.
For optimal night photography, it is essential to be familiar with the interplay between shutter speed, aperture and ISO for achieving desirable exposures in low-light settings. To get started, make sure you have a sturdy tripod so your camera won’t shake during long exposure shots. You should also invest in an external flash or LED light source if you plan on shooting at night more often.
For those seeking creative ideas for night photography, Instagram is an excellent resource to explore the work of talented photographers who specialize in capturing stunning nocturnal scenes. There are plenty of talented photographers who specialize in capturing unique scenes after dark – from urban landscapes lit up by streetlights and neon signs to starry skies filled with galaxies and nebulae.
One such photographer worth checking out is @paulzizkaphoto – Paul Zizka‘s stunning astrophotography captures everything from distant planets and star clusters to meteor showers streaking across the sky. The way he merges landscapes with images of the night sky is something you have to see.
Nighttime shooting is a test of endurance, ingenuity and technical aptitude that can be incredibly gratifying. Aerial photography offers an entirely different perspective on the world with its stunning views from high above the ground.
Aerial Photography
Taking stunning images from the air, aerial photography is a form of art that demands expertise, ingenuity and technical proficiency. It’s an art form that requires skill, creativity and technical know-how. Aerial photos can be incredibly captivating and stunningly beautiful when done correctly. Here are some of the top 50 aerial photographers on Instagram who have mastered this craft:
1. @paulnicklen – Paul Nicklen is a National Geographic photographer who specializes in capturing wildlife in their natural habitats through his drone work. He has captured stunning shots of polar bears, walruses and other Arctic creatures from above with his drone camera.
2. @dronestagram – This account features amazing aerial photographs taken by people all over the world using drones or helicopters to capture unique perspectives on landscapes, cities and monuments around the globe.
3. @jordhammond – Jordan Hammond is a professional photographer whose portfolio includes incredible aerial shots of nature as well as abstract cityscapes from high up in the air. His work often blurs the line between reality and imagination with its creative compositions and vivid colors that come alive when seen from a bird’s eye view.
4 .@airpixels – AirPixels showcases jaw dropping footage taken by drones across various countries such as India, Indonesia, China, Mexico and more. Their videos provide viewers with an unforgettable experience as they explore different places through their captivating visuals shot at heights ranging from 100 feet to 500 feet above ground level.
5 .@scottjonphotography– Scott McCook is one of Australia’s most sought after photographers due to his ability to capture mesmerizing scenes while flying hundreds of meters above ground level. Whether it’s a sunset over Uluru or rugged coastal cliffs off Sydney he always manages to bring out vibrant colors even when shooting during twilight hours thanks to his mastery behind the controls of a quadcopter drone camera system.
FAQ
Why is Instagram best for photographers?
Instagram provides a great opportunity for photographers to exhibit their art and reach out to an expansive viewership. Instagram provides a user-friendly experience, enabling users to promptly post photos and videos with an array of editing features. It also offers unique features such as stories, hashtags, geotagging, direct messaging and more that can help boost engagement with followers. Additionally, Instagram has powerful analytics capabilities which allow photographers to track how many people have seen their posts or interacted with them in any way – giving insight into what content works best on the platform. In summary, Instagram is a great asset for photographers to extend their reach and develop their business.
Which is the best photography on Instagram?
The best photography on Instagram is subjective, as everyone has their own tastes and preferences. Though individual opinions vary, certain factors can be used to differentiate exceptional photography from the rest. Photos with strong composition, interesting lighting techniques, creative angles and unique perspectives tend to draw more attention than others. Additionally, photographers who post consistently high-quality work often gain a larger following over time due to the quality of their content. Ultimately it comes down to personal preference when deciding what constitutes great photography on Instagram.
Who is the No 1 photographer in the world?
It is difficult to definitively name one photographer as the best in the world. However, many professionals and critics consider Steve McCurry to be a top contender for this title. His work has been featured on magazine covers and exhibited in galleries around the globe, showcasing his eye for composition and mastery of light. He is also renowned for his humanitarian photography that captures stories from people all over the world with an unmatched level of emotion and empathy. His work has been praised and commended, making him a favorite among photographers of all abilities.
Is Instagram still good for photographers?
Yes, Instagram is still a great platform for photographers. Instagram offers a convenient way to share visuals and reach a substantial audience with only one upload. With its wide range of features such as editing tools, filters, stories, hashtags and direct messaging options, it can be used to showcase work in creative ways and engage with potential customers or fans. Additionally, the insights feature allows users to track engagement levels which can help photographers optimize their content for maximum impact.
Conclusion
To sum up, these photographers offer a variety of unique approaches to capturing memorable moments. Each photographer has their own distinct aesthetic and vision when it comes to immortalizing breathtaking moments. No matter your level of photography expertise or what kind of imagery you’re interested in, these Instagram photographers will provide plenty of inspiration for all. No matter your photography level or interest, make sure to follow some of these incredible artists today and get inspired by their work.
Discover the best photographers on Instagram and learn their secrets for taking stunning photos. Follow our blog to stay up-to-date with the latest photography tips, tricks, and trends. Click the following link to learn what Model Mayhem alternatives there are.
If you are planning on attending a concert or similar event, you might be interested in photographing or filming some of the exciting moments you will witness during the performance.
In this article you will learn where cameras are allowed, what types of cameras you can bring, and how to legally get a camera into a concert without getting in trouble.
Concerts have various regulations when it comes to bringing in recording devices, whether they are audio or video. Many times cameras are not well received at concerts or other events due to the issue of illegal distribution of content. No one cares about your selfie with you and your friends.
There are many ways you can get your camera into the concert. If you are associated with the press, you can easily attend a concert with your camera. If not, you need to look into other methods.
Keep in mind that here we are talking about non phone cameras. Cameras in phones often do not have the quality or zoom capability we want to get nice sharp photos or videos of the performers. Camera phones mostly use digital zoom due to the size of the lens which is very small, resulting in loss of quality the more you zoom in. Phones are also not great in the dark and give grainy images or videos.
Why don’t Concerts Allow Cameras?
There are multiple reasons why cameras are not allowed at concerts. I will list all these reasons below.
1. One main reason is the fact that people will take pictures and try to sell them. The person who sells these images will not share any profit percentage with the artist or the organizers. Thus, they are losing some amount of their income.
2. Sometimes, the artist at a concert can do into illegal acts. If the photographer captures this moment accidentally with the camera, the artist can run into unnecessary trouble.
3. There will be lots of people who have come to watch the concert. If you stand in between them and point the camera at the artist for the picture, it can be a nuisance to others. They will not be able to enjoy the concert. To avoid such a situation, cameras are not allowed at the concert.
4. Another issue is the use of flash. The amount of light during a concert will be very less since most of the programs happen at night or indoors. So, people tend to use flash in their cameras to capture sharp and blur-free images. When multiple such flashes get fired on the artist, it can distract the artist and viewers as well
5. The person who uses the camera might take pictures of intimate moments of the artist with his/ her family members. These images may go public on social media.
6. The person might capture the entire video of the concert and upload it to sites like YouTube or other social media platforms. Thus, the organizers will lose some amount of their revenue.
Point and Shoot vs DSLR/ Mirrorless Cameras
When it comes to photographing concerts, you have multiple camera options. It includes point and shoot, DSLR, or Mirrorless cameras. DSLR and Mirrorless cameras are bulky. It will be tough for you to carry one into a concert. The security personnel will easily catch you if you take a DSLR or Mirrorless camera with you.
Here, the best option is to take a point and shoot camera. The sleek and slim design of the point and shoot camera ensure that no one notices the camera. Also, there are some ways by which you can get a point and shoot camera into a concert.
How to Get Your Camera into a Concert Legally?
If you want to take your camera into a concert legally, you need to get prior permission from the concert organizers. When you contact the organizers, they will ask if you are associated with any media. Only then, they will issue the press pass. The press pass allows you to take a professional camera to a concert.
Legal camera setup on tripod with a media pass
If you are not associated with the press, you can try to contact your local newspaper or magazine. They can help you get a press ID that will allow you to get the press pass from the organizers. Sometimes, the local media may ask you to pay a small fee for the press ID. They also might make a deal with you wherein you will have to share some of the images from the concert with them free of cost.
You can increase your chance of getting the press ID if you own a professional camera like a DSLR or Mirrorless with appropriate lenses. You can also consider getting a professional camera for rent if you do not own one.
Camera Rules for Sports, Games, and Theatre
Whether you can bring your camera for sports, games or theatre events will fully depend on the organizers. If it is a professional sport or game, they will not allow people to come with their cameras. But you can take your smartphone that comes with a somewhat good camera for such events. The only limitation is that you may not get that optical zoom reach to get a clear shot.
If it is a sports event or game conducted by colleges or other institutions, they may allow you to take your camera. It is always a good idea to check with the organizers to confirm whether they allow cameras or not. Otherwise, you may run into unnecessary trouble.
How to Sneak a Camera into a Concert?
Even though many concerts don’t allow you to bring a camera for taking pictures or videos, there are ways you can get your camera into a concert. I will list all these techniques. If you use them its at your own risk.
It is not possible to take a large camera with long lenses to a concert without getting noticed. So, the camera size is an important factor. You cannot bring a bulky camera. The camera needs to be a small one. The point and shoot digital camera is the best camera to carry. If you are planning to purchase a new point and shoot camera, make sure it is a slim and thin one. Keep in mind that these options may be limited if there are metal detectors in the venue.
Now you need to find a way to hide your camera. There are different ways to conceal your camera in your clothing. All these techniques are listed below.
1. You can keep the camera inside the gloves and wear them. Make sure your gloves are not thin. If they are thin, people will start seeing the projection created by the camera. You need to stick the camera inside one of your gloves. Sometimes, they may ask to remove your gloves. In such a situation, you can easily remove gloves and show your hand. After that, you can put your gloves back on.
2. Nowadays, you can get very thin and small point and shoot cameras. If you own such a camera, there is one technique that is worth trying. You can easily get a wallet where you can hide this camera. It is a good idea to cover the camera with a thin fabric and tape it inside the wallet. Thus, even if the security personnel check, you can show your wallet and sneak in.
3. Don’t wear thin shirts or tops. Go for a sweatshirt that looks large and bulky. Use a rubber band or camera straps and tie the camera to one of your arms. Make sure the camera does not fall when you walk or move around. The sleeves of the sweatshirt will ensure that no one sees the camera. Sometimes the security personnel may ask to remove the sweatshirt. You must not remove it completely. Just lift it from the bottom to the top so that the security guys can confirm that there is nothing underneath your shirt.
4. If you don’t like to wear a sweatshirt, you can go for a bulky shirt that has long sleeves. This technique will work only if your camera is very slim and you have a strong and bulky arms.
5. Another place where you can keep your point and shoot camera is inside the shoes. But you need to be very careful if you are going to use this technique. When you walk there will be some amount of pressure applied on the camera since it is under your feet. You need to walk in such a way that there is no pressure on the camera. Otherwise, it can damage your camera. Also, it is a good idea to stick the camera using tape. If you don’t tape it, the camera will move around and the security guys will catch you easily because of your abnormal walking style.
6. You can also tape the camera inside the bottom part of your pants. Make sure to wear a bell-bottom or pants with a wider bottom section. It will ensure that no one notices the camera down there. If you go for a skinny fit, there will be a bulge on the pant when you tape the camera.
7. If you are a lady, there is one more idea you can try. Here, you need to conceal the camera on top of your head and use the hair as a cover up. To make it more effective, you can wear a hat. Thus, no one will notice it. Even if the security guy asks you to remove the hat, the camera will go unnoticed since it is under the hair.
8. Another great place to hide your camera is on the jacket. You can wear a jacket above your shirt or tee. There are multiple places where you can keep the camera in the jacket. Do not keep it in the regular pockets. Try to tape it inside the arm or the hand area of the jacket.
If you are not after the highest quality photos or video, it almost makes sense to avoid these hassles and use your phone if you have one.
I hope this article covered all the ways you can get a camera into a concert or similar event. Consider reading this article on how to photograph live events at night.
If you are a photography beginner and want to learn the way famous photographers learned, or if you are new to film photography and want to experience this art form first hand, you will need a good camera to get started.
Below you will find a list of the best cameras for film photography and the reasons why we have chosen these particular models.
How do you choose the best film camera?
Film cameras were once the boss, having taken over from rangefinder camera systems. However, they have now been replaced by digital cameras. Film cameras are no longer in vogue and are made in fewer numbers. However, older cameras are being repaired and refurbished and made available for sale at different avenues. Or you could even pick up one of the modern film camera designs that give you the joy of shooting “old-school.” You can find a perfectly well-maintained film camera at an online store or your favorite pre-owned store. But you may have to fight for a bargain. Even though these cameras are outdated, they’re still prized as collectibles.
If you’re ready to take the plunge and explore the wonderful (and I might add demanding) world of film photography, I would ask you to spare a few more minutes here and go through the pros and cons of an SLR vs. a rangefinder, that we have prepared for you. These will help you to identify the camera that best meets your requirements. Towards the second part of this discussion, we have also shared many options (all used) you can buy online and get started. So, let’s get started.
Type of 35mm film camera
We can differentiate the world of 35mm film cameras into three broad groups: SLRs, rangefinders, and point shoots. There are other types of cameras as well, like twin lens reflex cameras, medium formats, large formats, instant cameras, and pinhole cameras.
But considering the easy availability of 35mm film, it’s recommended that you go for a 35mm film camera.
SLR cameras come with a reflex mirror and an optical viewfinder showing the same image the lens sees. This differs from rangefinder cameras which do not show the view through the lens via the optical viewfinder at the back of the camera.
Both rangefinders and SLRs are interchangeable lens systems. You can swap a lens for another and shoot with a different perspective. Compact cameras don’t have this option.
There are a bunch of other differences between the two systems. For example, rangefinder cameras don’t have a fast enough shutter speed. Often you would find out that they offer you around 2 to 3 stops slower maximum shutter speed. So, where a rangefinder maxes out at 1/1000 sec, an SLR can easily go more than 1/4000 sec.
Rangefinders tend to be more compact than SLRs. The reason being there are no reflex mirrors inside a rangefinder. Also, because of the absence of the reflex mirror, rangefinder cameras are very quiet. SLRs are bulkier and can be very loud, especially with older cameras where there was no mechanism to slow down the mirror.
The absence of the reflex mirror also means rangefinder cameras are less prone to blurry images even when you’re shooting hand-held. The slapping mirror inside the SLR camera is why you sometimes have to use the mirror lock-up option or the “Q mode.”
The viewfinder of a rangefinder camera is larger and brighter than an SLR’s. You can see more of the scene in front, and it helps you compose better and react more intuitively.
The Cameras
Canon AE-1 / AE-1 Program
Canon AE-1 / AE-1 Program
The Canon AE-1 was released back in 1976, and it became one of the most sought-after camera systems straight away. A majorly plastic construction ensured that the overall weight of the camera was less. It was one of those rare cameras that offered a shutter priority option when it was released. This differed from most other cameras that showed aperture priority as the basic auto mode. The AE-1 was easy to operate, and film loading was very easy.
Pros
Electronic shutter control.
The camera has a hot shoe.
One of the more accessible cameras to load film.
Cons
Battery required to operate.
Mostly plastic construction.
Rating – 4.75/5
Nikon FE
Nikon FE
The Nikon FE is another prevalent camera system that gave the Canon AE-1 some stiff competition. But unlike the AE-1, this camera came with an Aperture priority mode which was the standard back then. The camera was launched in 1978. There was also a manual exposure mode for more creative controls. The camera requires a battery to be operated, which could be why many film camera users avoid this. Another thing is the camera had a maximum shutter speed of 1/1000 sec that could be stretched to 8 seconds using the mechanical shutter. Bulb mode was unlimited.
Pros
Bulb mode with unlimited exposure time frame.
Maximum shutter speed of 1/1000 sec.
Cons
Required a battery to work.
Rating – 4.70/5
Nikon F5
Nikon F5
One of Nikon’s most popular film cameras ever and one of the last professional SLR models, the Nikon F5 is a fantastic film camera to boot. If you’re interested in shooting film photography and looking for an excellent camera to work with, you don’t have to look beyond the F5. Announced in 1996, this is a very well-built SLR. The camera features a fully functional autofocusing feature handy when shooting moving subjects. The most significant benefit of using the F5 is it’s built extremely well. This is one of those cameras that can take a lot of beating and still perform without issues.
Pros
Fantastic build quality.
Maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 sec.
Features a fully functional autofocusing mechanism.
Cons
Heavy camera to wield.
Rating – 4.70/5
Nikon F6
Nikon F6
How can you keep the Nikon F6 away from this discussion? The upgrade to the Nikon F5, the F6 is a weather-sealed design designed to take on anything that Mother Nature can throw at it. The Nikon F6 gives you the familiar look and feel of a standard Nikon DSLR. The camera has multiple exposure modes, including Programmed Auto, Flexible Program, Shutter priority, Aperture priority, and Manual mode. The camera has a fast maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 sec. The camera used the advanced 3D Color Matrix metering system for accurate metering.
Pros
Extremely well-built camera.
Used the 3D Color Matrix metering system.
Fast shutter speed.
Range of exposure modes.
Cons
Uses the CR123A 3V batteries (2), which are rare.
Rating – 4.80/5
Nikon FM2
Nikon FM2
The Nikon FM2 has been a favorite among travel and street photographers worldwide. You may have seen one of the most iconic photographs ever taken with this camera by Steve McCurry – the Afghan Girl. This well-built camera can take a bit of abuse—no wonder this camera was used in one of the most inhospitable places on Earth. The camera has a host of mechanical controls that works without a battery. This is an excellent advantage as you don’t have to depend on changing batteries to work with this camera. Do remember, though, that there is no autofocusing on the camera.
Pros
Extremely well-built camera.
Doesn’t need a battery to work.
Host of mechanical controls.
Cons
Lacks autofocusing.
Rating – 4.65/5
Nikon FM-10
Nikon FM-10
The best thing about SLRs (and DSLRs) is the optical viewfinder that powers them. The Nikon FM-10 does not disappoint in that regard. It has one of the best optical viewfinders in the business. Another thing is the camera does not require a battery to be operated. However, the battery gives you the all-important LED information set that lights up the viewfinder. Having said that, the generous amount of plastic used in constructing the lens makes it feel tacky. But it keeps the weight down, which is important when you’re shooting for a considerable amount of time.
Pros
Excellent viewfinder to work with.
Does not need a battery to work.
Cons
Don’t like the plastic construction of the camera.
Rating – 4.55/5
Pentax K1000
Pentax K1000
Made by the world-renowned Asahi Optical Co., the Pentax K1000 is a beautiful retro design with buttons and dials. The system is entirely mechanical. This is a manual focusing and a manual exposure-only camera.
The maximum shutter speed of the camera was only 1/1000 sec. So, using high-speed lenses in broad daylight could be problematic without filters. One good thing is that you don’t need batteries for this camera to work with. Having said that, with batteries, you get the advantage of the light meter appearing on the viewfinder.
Pros
All metal design.
Mechanical controls.
Doesn’t require batteries to operate unless you need the light meter information.
Cons
Maximum shutter speed is only 1/1000 sec.
No autofocusing capabilities.
Rating – 4.55/5
Contax T3
This is one of those rare cameras on this list that are not an SLR. The Contax T3 is a point-and-shoot camera. This is a true snap-happy photographer’s camera, complete with a built-in flash and generous auto modes. The compact design makes it easy to take the camera with you practically anywhere you go. The Carl Zeiss 35mm lens, offers excellent photos that are on the money 99% of the time. I also love the retractable design of the lens that makes it easy to tuck the camera into a jacket pocket.
Pros
Compact point-and-shoot design.
Built-in flash.
A series of auto modes.
Cons
Flash fires at eye level.
Rating – 4.75/5
Leica MA
Leica MA
Excellent build quality upholding the genius of German manufacturing, the Leica MA is a film camera with a rangefinder design. Some of the key aspects of the camera are its bright viewfinder, exceptional build quality, and the quality of images that the camera produces. Also, the shutter mechanism is such a joy to work with. It’s very quiet. That said, the absence of a light meter in the camera can be an issue for people just beginning in photography.
Pros
Exceptional build quality.
Rangefinder design.
Bright viewfinder.
Excellent shutter mechanism.
Entirely mechanical design.
Cons
At 578 grams, it’s a bit heavy.
Rating – 4.50/5
Leica M6
Leica M6
Another marvel of German manufacturing excellence, the Leica M6 has widely been touted as the best film camera. For the years that it was in production from 1984 to 1998, and even after that, the camera was considered a workhorse for those in photojournalism. There are many things to like about the Leica M6. However, the most important things are two. First is the camera’s reliability, and the second is the build quality. This is a highly well-built camera that can withstand life’s hardships as a photojournalist’s main camera. This rangefinder camera was hand-assembled in Germany during the years of its production.
Pros
Excellent build quality.
Excellent image quality.
Through the lens metering.
Hand assembled in Germany.
Cons
Manual camera.
Rating – 4.85/5
Leica M4
Leica M4
This is a rangefinder camera that shot 35mm film. This was, in many ways, the last of the great Leica cameras hand-assembled in Germany before production was outsourced. There were some significant improvements made in the Leica M4. One of those improvements is frame lines for the 35mm, 50mm, 90mm, and 135mm lenses. Another improvement was the angled film rewind lever, which made life much easier. There was also a very convenient plastic-tipped film advance lever to match that.
Pros
No batteries are required to shoot with this camera.
Frame lines for multiple lenses.
Fantastic image quality.
Decent build quality.
Automatic frame counter reset.
Cons
The viewfinder wasn’t the best and the most convenient in terms of use.
Rating – 4.80/5
Pentax ME Super
Pentax ME Super
The Pentax ME Super is a neat little camera that combines excellent handling, superb controls, and sharp image quality in an affordable package. The camera features an Aperture priority mode for beginner photographers and a full Manual mode for more creatively reassured users. The camera has a hot shoe that you can use to mount different accessories. The maximum shutter speed of the camera is 1/2000 sec. The camera has a TTL metering system that increases metering convenience and helps dial in the right exposure settings.
Pros
Aperture priority mode.
Full manual mode.
Maximum shutter speed is 1/2000 sec.
TTL Metering.
Cons
Not all the buttons and dials are nice to work with.
Rating – 4.75/5
Conclusion
Film cameras can be an acquired taste for someone who has never shot using film. An entire generation of photographers has never shot a roll of film in their life. This is normal because digital cameras have taken over recently, and these photographers never had the chance to use film.
Film photography will be a challenge and a learning experience for them. However, this will also be a gratifying experience experimenting with a technique that popularized photography and brought it into the hands of the average consumer. Click the following link to learn how to use a film camera.
