Kodak Advantix Preview APS Film Camera

I got this camera in September of 2002 for my wedding. I wanted a camera to take with me on our wedding, and along on the honeymoon. At the time, I did not have easy access to a computer, so a digital camera was not a wise buy. So I shopped around, and finding the Kodak Preview camera seemed to be heaven sent. I absolutely love this camera. I love the choices it gives you. As all APS cameras offer, you can choose the size print you want (3x5, 4x5, or landscape). You can specify the distance and focus needed for your particular shot. My favorite part of this camera is the flash options. You can specifically choose how intense you need the flash to be; For example, it is a overcast day, but you still need a bit of flash, there is a setting for that. Indoor, outdoor, sunny, dim lighting... it does not matter. If you are going to purchase this camera, I advise learning this function first. It is a valuable picture saving technique for your potential shots. I like being able to preview the shots I take, of course, and being able to choose if I want to not develop that shot, or hey, I love it, I want 5 prints!!!

I have a 3 yr old daughter, and as many of you parents out there may also experience, just when you WANT to take their picture, they clam up and become shy. I have found that the showing of the picture to the child brings them out, encouraging them to WANT to have their picture taken! A big bonus.

The drawback I see from this camera is the cost of developing. Yes, you can opt to not develop those prints that you do not like, but I have found that after learning all the functions that this camera offers, I rarely need to do this. So when I go to the local film processor, I am developing at least 25 pictures, not counting the additional prints that I have specified. This is a spendy ordeal; APS film processing is not as cheap as regular old 35 mm film! But it is worth it in the long run, with the easy storage of your negatives, the simple reprinting capabilities, and the crystal clear prints I receive. And no suprizes! I love all the prints I get because I approved them prior to getting them done! Also, the camera batteries don't last QUITE as long as I wish they would, especially considering that having to buy TWO generic brand batteries (this is what it takes) every 3 month or so (that is how often I have to change them, but I take TONS of pictures), you are looking at approx. 8-12 dollars EACH for one battery. UGH!!

Overall, I recommend this camera to anyone looking to take a jump into the modern/future picture taking world, while still depending on the quality of an old fashioned, processed print from the film developers, vs. digital camera, at-home printing.