I've been a hobbyist photographer since my early teens. When I was that age, that wasn't a very popular hobby among my peers, but I've always found it very compelling.

The last few years saw me shooting less film and more digital. I was also having less fun. I've found my digital cameras to be a generally competent and I can see why most users switched. That said, it's been almost like a switch back for me over the last year. I still have plenty of use for digital cameras, but I've certainly been enjoying film for now.

To begin with, I've found that cheap 35mm cameras still take good pictures. Who knew? I've enjoyed playing around with my sub $20 cameras a lot. You worry less about damaging a camera if it cost $3.99.

For the first time in my life, I've gotten set up to develop and scan film at home. It's been sweet, too. Black and white is still something that film does much better than digital. Viva la Tri-X!

Sadly, after years of little use and a recent "rediscovery," I recently knocked my beloved EOS Elan IIe off of a table onto a carpeted floor, breaking the rear latch. I will probably attempt to repair it myself eventually. I've already bought another-$25 for the body...the camera that I liked so much, I bought it twice. I had bought the first one in 1998 for $368, including shipping. Still have the ticket. Any Elan IIe shots on my Photostream that are earlier than the Kodachromes are the old one. Any after July 20, 2009 are the new one. I'll have to see if my $25 counts as a camera rescue!

I've become a big fan of the ZLR format camera that was the prosumer superzoom of the nineties. Many were cameras that I would've liked to have at the time. They're a good buy for $15 now! If you want to try one, I recommend the Chinon Genesis I or II. Excellent sharpness and exposure accuracy, and convenient to use. The Genesis III has those same benefits, but it's automatic zoom makes it less fun to use.

The little Minox 35 is a tiny pal well worth seeking out. It'll cost more than other camera rescues, but it's well worth it.

Give film a chance!