What Is an APS Camera?
Advanced Photo System, or APS, film-based cameras were popular in the early 1990s for their convenient drop in film loading and multiple print size options. However, the cost of processing this film type has made it take a backseat to the popular 35mm film format. Since photo labs use special equipment to process APS film, it was rarely available as a 1-hour service and could cost several dollars more per roll to process.
Size
Used by everyday point and shoot style photographers, APS cameras were a light-weight, compact option. They were easy to stow away in luggage, a purse or even in a pocket to capture everyday moments. The all-in-one camera did not require lens changes, making it simple to transport in a small deck-of-cards sized case.
Features
Drop-in film loading is the key feature on an APS camera. Since there are no film leaders to thread across the back of the camera, the film loading is fool-proof and easy. Open the film compartment door, and drop in the egg-shaped cassette. Close the door, and the camera would automatically retrieve the film from the cassette.
Cost
Purchasing and processing APS, or 24mm film, costs more than 35mm film. Buying a roll of unexposed APS film costs a few dollars more than 35mm, to make up for the cassette style that allows the film to autoload into the camera. Processing also costs more since APS film users cannot see their negatives when the photos are returned to them. The negatives are tightly wound into the cassette, so the lab must print an index card for customers to view, in case the customer needs reprints.
Print Options
Shooting with an APS camera begins by selecting the format. Three print size options are found on an APS camera. The "C" size is known as standard, and will yield a 4-by-6 inch size print. The "H" size print will produce a 4-by-7 inch size print. And, the "P" option will create a long slender panoramic print, in either 4-by-10 inches or 4-by-12 inches, depending on the photo lab making the prints.
Symbols
APS film cassettes are individually numbered and have a symbol system on the base. If the circle symbol is highlighted, the roll is new and has never been exposed. If the half circle is highlighted, the roll has been in the camera, and partially used. When the X is highlighted, the film has all been shot but needs to be taken to the lab for processing. If the square is highlighted, the film has already been to the lab for processing.
Tags: film loading, print size, size print, 35mm film, cameras were, costs more
