CAMERAS

AIA classifies cameras into two groups:

• Digital SLR's ("Prosummer") level

• Medium and large format cameras that take digital backs

Prosummer is a term that refers to digital SLR cameras whose resolution approaches or exceeds the 12MP mark. The fastest way to recognize these cameras is by their price, which exceeds $2,000 (the price point that consumer electronics mass marketers will not go over, but professional end users will invest in).

The strength of these cameras lies in their simplicity of operation and their portability.  There is no better choice for field work and fast documentation.

High resolution digital scan backs are just that...backs that require a front.  Medium format cameras are 2.25X2.25" cameras. Keep in mind that buying into a medium format "line" (choosing a specific manufacturer) locks you into their line of lenses and accessories.

Large format cameras are called View cameras or 4X5 cameras. These are most often used in studios or labs, but there are 4X5 Field cameras that are used to produce panoramas and stunning nature images.  These cameras use a bellows body which can be twisted via gears and sliders to create perspective corrections and increase depth of field. These also can be relatively expensive but allow more choice in lens manufacturer.