Still Using a Film Camera? Better Trade It In NOW!

Digital photography is here and there's no looking back. Digital photography has permeated every facet of imaging. From amateur and pro sports to a family day at the beach or the ski slope or the park, everybody has gone digital. And why not? Digital is easy. Any old Windows PC, Mac or Linux box can be used to load and store your photos. Software - by the carload - is available for every platform and for every skill level, to view, edit, share and print your digital photos. CD and DVD burning is almost automatic these days, so there should never be a situation in which your precious shots are lost.

Buy a digital camera now. Six megapixel models (point & shoot, digital SLR) have reached the point where image output on a $150 photo inkjet printer is indistinguishable from top quality 35mm print film output. Lenses are superb. Features and functions abound in sufficient quantities on dozens of different camera models to satisfy even the most technical minded.

If you're going to do it, pass the Tums, gather up all your old film gear, and head over to the nearest pro shop. Then prepare to be shocked at the terrible trade-in value. Nikon F100 bodies are getting about $250. An F3 or F4 body will get you around $400 (if it's in really great shape). Your precious collection of lenses will draw about the same money. A non-AF 300mm Nikon F2.8 beauty will fetch little more than $350. Better keep your autofocus lenses if you plan on buying a digital SLR from the same manufacturer. More . . .