Film

35mm

The most popular film type for compact and SLR cameras is 35mm. This film format is inexpensive, versatile, and can produce excellent images, even for moderate enlargements. Many professional photographers use 35mm film exclusively. More camera models exist for 35mm film than any other type, providing the consumer with the greatest number of choices. 35mm film rolls are available in 6, 8, 12, 18, 24 and 36 exposure lengths, with 24 exposures being the most popular.

Advanced Photo System (APS)

The newer Advanced Photo System uses film that is slightly smaller than 35mm, enclosed in a special cassette for easier loading into the camera. The film exists in 15, 25, and 40 exposure lengths, and is used in compact and SLR cameras that have the APS designation.

Unlike 35mm, APS incorporates several convenience features. For example, you can choose from three print formats when taking the picture, normal, wide, or panoramic. The film includes a magnetic strip that stores information on exposure, such as print format, number of exposures left on the film, and other information. The mid-roll change feature on some cameras uses this information to let you change film rolls without losing exposures. The camera automatically winds and unwinds the film into the cassette, for safe removal and reloading into the camera.

At processing, an index print is provided, containing small, numbered, 'thumbnail' representations of the entire roll of photographs. This makes it easier to choose photos for reprints and enlargements.

Other film types

Older cartridge style films such as 110 and 126 are falling out of favor, due to the higher image quality produced by compact cameras that use 35mm or APS film.

Film sizes larger than 35mm exist for professional work. The larger formats produce extremely sharp images, but the cameras needed for these formats are considered too bulky and expensive for the general public.

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Last modified: July 2008