A good camera if you have it but I see no reason to buy one now (Minolta S-1)

Member Name: Trengot

Product:	Minolta S-1
Date:	03/03/09 (21 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Build quality, accessories.

Disadvantages: Does not live up to standards of DSLRs. Expensive films,

I was given this camera before I really had an interest in photography and sadly this was not a camera to inspire an interest. The first and maybe the main problem is the APS system that it makes use of. This adds the ability to alter the ratio of the image, take the film out without fully exposing it and (in my, admittedly inexperienced, hands) very little else. What is does give you is the need to buy films that cost twice as much to both buy and develop as standard 35mm camera films.

The small LCD screen is not clear and makes setting up shots difficult and the controls are not intuitive or easy (in my eyes) to get the hang of.

There is also the fact that almost all the features offered by this (and other SLR cameras) are now available on DSLR cameras that can also offer more including cheaper processing costs.

This is a camera that has been passed by newer technology. I can see no reason for someone to buy this camera. Either spend that little bit more on a DSLR or buy an 35mm SLR.

On the plus side there is the good build quality and the wide range of lenses available for it.

Summary: Does not need all the features it has and could do with ones it hasn't

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