Despite the popularity of digital cameras, film type cameras still prevail for some aspects of photography. Basic photography doesn't require a massive outlay of money and you are not going to get into an extreme depth at this level - things you will cover will be perspective, depth-or-field, f-stops, focal lengths etc.You will no doubt get into things like enlarging, papers, and various gear in later courses. Basic photography touches on things like visual tricks and appeal and maybe techniques for putting the image on film, whether or not it is actually 'film'. That is a thing that has not changed. That is the real essence of photography, making the picture.
if you have no camera, don't worry as first courses get into choosing gear and your teacher will give you a shopping list after the first session or two, they will not drop you into the water without at least a pair of water wings ;););)
As a 30 year Professional, and former College Instructor, The first questions these days would be are you taking traditional, or digital photography classes. If you are taking digital, consult directly with the class instructor for advise. If you are taking traditional photography, the finest student camera ever made is the PENTAX K-1000. It is exactly what an entry level student in basic photography needs...a manual camera which contains the basics.No bellls and whistles, just camera. It is a camera which enables you to learn, without breaking the bank. You can regularly find them on EBAY with a basic 50mmf2 lens for $50 to $75. BTW, K1000 or K1000SE - same camera SE may have a Brown Letherette finish...The difference between them was not in the camera, but in where they were originally sold. (SE's were not available in Department Stores) ofr $250 you should be able to pick up camera, normal, wide angle and telephoto or zoom lenses. PLUS down the line, the lenese will work manually on any PENTAX DIGITAL SLR! Best of Luck in your Education!
Jim JEMPhotoGraphic Communication Services. Albany, NY
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