reported by Robert James, CyberScreenwriter.com

To truly learn photography you must understand the art of film. Sounds reasonable, right? Unfortunately, it's become nearly impossible. With the influx of digital photography, film cameras are disappearing fast. For Wheaton students interested in photography, finding a film camera has become nearly quixotic. In fact, you'd be hard-pressed to find a 35 mm film camera in stores these days.

"The camera industry is so consumer based that they are only producing digital," said Professor of Art Andy Howard. "There is no need or demand for film cameras anymore, so companies like Nikon and Minolta are simply not making them. If they do make a film camera, it will run you somewhere in the $2,000 range."

Although Wheaton does teach digital photography, Howard is not ready to throw in the towel on film. He values the art of developing and photo processing, a practice he calls "meditative." Digital cameras can simplify photography, especially since you can see your photos instantaneously. But with film, the process requires patience, as well as trial and error.

Traditional fine art, such as oil painting and printmaking, still thrive at Wheaton despite modern advances. Although the digital camera threatens the traditional art of film photography, Howard confirms, "I will never let it go."

Howard is not alone. Associate Professor of Art and Film Jake Mahaffy agrees that there is no substitute for film, and says using it in teaching is "invaluable." Although digital movie cameras, such as Sony Handycams, make video production easy, Mahaffy said it takes away from the artistic process.

"Film teaches a discipline and efficiency impossible to impart with the convenience and instant gratification of digital video," said Mahaffy. "Students learn the fundamentals of visual narrative and cinematography, and acquire skills that apply across all the arts."

Since 35 mm film cameras are becoming extinct, Howard is asking the Wheaton community to donate cameras (in good working condition) to be used in his classes contact. The cameras will provide students with the tools to learn traditional photography, but without the added expense. He does not want to discourage students from enrolling in a photography class simply because they don't have a camera. "Wheaton is a liberal arts college that values art," said Howard. "We shouldn't be limiting our students."