I'm turning 50 next month, and I think I want a 'good' camera.

[babylonsister]

My DH has a camera and long lens, maybe I should just take charge of that.
We are into immediate digital stuff, but the pics I've seen here in this group
are amazing.
I think I need to 'learn' his old stuff.
If a new camera was in my perview, what would you suggest?
Nah, that's not fair. I'll go first - tomorrow.

[Rabrrrrrr]

1. Something medium format, for sure!

Or even larger.

I find myself taking WAY better pictures when I only have twelve shots on a roll (medium format 120) and when I know it's gonna cost me something to develop them.

Plus, medium format just plain takes a hell of a better picture than 35mm, or any of the non-professional digital.

But then, it also depends on what you want from your photos - if you aren't into blowing them into large prints, or making prints at all, then medium format could be out.

[babylonsister]

2. Thanks, Rabrrrrr. I have to see what DH has that he no longer

uses and bone up on it. I wouldn't necessarily need large prints, but the pix in this group of flowers, grasshoppers, etc. are stunning visually. I think I'm intrigued at how good of a clear shot I can get up close.

[babylonsister]

3. This is what I inherited today:

A Canon AE-1 Program camera with a Soliger 70-220 mm lens.
It's a dinosaur, heavy, but might be good for practice.
Any thoughts other than canning it and getting one
more up-to-date?

[Fovea]

4. You need either a wide angle zoom

or maybe a couple of primes.

Consider a zoom from say 24mm to 70mm, or a set of
prime lenses in the 24, 35, and 50 range with at least one macro lens (or maybe a reversing ring).

70-220 is nice to reach out with, but is difficult when what you shoot is not a self-contained object, but a view.