Point-and-shoot camera guide

Super easy to use - just press the button ! Built-in flash, and autofocus make these a great choice for beginners.

There are many many models to choose from, and the type of features that they have include:

Autofocus: the camera automatically focuses the lens on the object you are photographing so that it is nice and clear.

 

Auto film loading: in traditional 35mm cameras to load the film into the camera you normally need to open the film back and insert the tip of the film into a little slit in the film takeup spool (a part that turns around to pull the film out of the film cassette as you take each photo). 

While this is not difficult at all to get the hang of, with auto film loading to load the film you only need to insert the film cassette, and pull out the film a few centimetres then close the back of the camera. The camera automatically takes hold of the end of the film and winds it into position ready for you to start taking pictures.

 

Auto film winding: after pressing the shutter button to take a picture, the camera automatically winds the film on ready for you to take the next shot.

 

Motorised film rewinding: in traditional 35mm cameras, as you take photos the camera winds the film out of its metal cassette. When you reach the end of the film, you need to turn a little crank to wind the film back into the cassette before removing it from the camera. With motorised film rewinding the camera does this for you when you press a small button.

 

Auto film rewinding: The camera automatically detects the end of the film, and rewinds the film automatically as soon as you reach the end.

 

Auto flash: When you press the shutter button in poor light, the camera automatically pops up the flash and starts it charging so that you are ensured a bright photo. These cameras normally don’t let you take a photo until the flash is ready, but often have a flash mode button so that you can turn off the auto flash if desired.

 

Self-timer: A lever or button on the camera that delays the taking of the photo by around 10 seconds after you press the shutter button. Allows the photographer to run around and join the picture. 

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Most of the more recent models take Lithium batteries, which can last a very long time. Slightly older models generally run on 2 x AA alkaline batteries.

If you are after something with a little more classic charm and character, then check out Retro Compact cameras. They have less of the automated features, but have some lovely styling and are small and easy to take anywhere. They are also easy to learn how to use.

If you are interested in getting more into photography, then SLR cameras and Rangefinder cameras are generally less automated, but will give you more control over your photos. This will allow you to take more creative shots, and also to deal with more challenging lighting situations and really open up your horizons to the joy of film photography.