Re: [Leica] Request for Advice

["Bert P. Krages" <krages@teleport.com>]

A couple of thoughts on inexpensive cameras that allow for aperture control
and filters.

The FED 5C is a Russian rangefinder camera that has a primitive meter,
generally comes with a not-too-sharp but fairly fast lens, and can take
Leica screw mount lenses.

The Nikon EM is an aperture-priority SLR made during the late 1970s/early
1980s.

Both cameras can generally be purchased by auction on www.eBay.com.

At 10:13 PM 12/2/1998 -0800, you wrote:
>I would appreciate some advice regarding a gift for an eight year old
>grandson.
>
>He has demonstrated an unusual (for his age) interest in photography.  In
>particular, he has expressed interest in some of the technical details of
>photography and has shown an affinity for composition.
>
>I would like to get him a camera for Christmas, but am not sure just what to
>get.  I want to get him one that will allow him to take good pictures and
>will provide alternatives to the "too-far-away, smile, Mommy" pictures.  I
>want him to have a 35mm, not APS.  I think he should be able to, at least,
>control the use of flash and, if possible, have some control over depth of
>field.  But, he is still only eight.  I don't know if this is a passing
>phase or the start of a passion that will eventually keep his as broke as I
>am.  Therefore, his first camera should be inexpensive enough that he (and
>I) will not mourn its loss or damage.  I should add that, although I will
>try to spend as much time as possible with him and his camera, I live almost
>300 miles away and do not see him nearly as often as I'd like to.
>
>Any advice or experiences you can share will be greatly appreciated.
>
>Thanks.
>
>Bill Cassing
>
>