Q-Most of the photo chemistry today is measured in liters. Why the change from ounces to liters? I have a problem knowing what a liter consists of. Do you have an easy formula?
A-The reason is that most manufactures ship their products throughout the world, where the metric system is used. Still, the U.S. gallon measurement is very much in use in this country. An easy way to figure from liters to gallons, for example, is that a quart is a little less than a liter and 4 liters is a little more than 1 gallon. To be exact, 1 liter is 0.264 gallon (a little more than a quart), and 4 liters is 1.06 gallons.
Q-I want to buy a 35 mm. camera for my wife, who loves to take pictures. She is not knowledgeable about photography. My price range is around $250, and I would appreciate it if you can tell me what camera to buy.
A-Buying a camera is like buying a TV, refrigerator or car. Some like certain shapes and design, popular name brands and the pitch a salesperson gives. Every camera basically produces good pictures. It`s up to the individual photographer when he or she takes a picture.
Briefly, knowing how to handle a camera is half the battle in getting good shots-filling the frame with the subject matter; good composition; making sure that no objects, such as lamps, trees or bushes, sprout out of the subject`s head; and holding the camera steady when shooting. These are just a few examples of how to improve some of your pictures.
There are a lot of excellent cameras on the market today. The most popular brands are Nikon, Canon and Minolta, but others are excellent, too. An Olympus, Pentax, Ricoh, Yashica, Chinon, Konica, Fuji or Kodak V35 Medalist in the same price range will also produce good pictures. It`s up to the individual knowing how to operate the camera properly.
There are two cameras that I haven`t mentioned: Leica and Polaroid. The Leica camera is in a class of its own. Most professional photographers who own an SLR (single-lens-reflex) Nikon, Canon or Minolta also may own a rangefinder Leica for special occasions. Many professional and amateur photographers also use a Polaroid for instant pictures for special events, parties etc.
There are cameras for all purposes, so when you go shopping have the salesperson show you the cameras to fit your budget. If the person you are buying a camera for doesn`t know much about photography, then go for a fully automatic point-and-shoot 35 mm. camera, with which you just drop the film in, point and shoot-and it rewinds automatically at the end of the roll.
One last note: Read all instructions before operating.
