General
Since it's launch in 1996, APS technology has offered a number of exciting features to the camera user. The system itself revolves around a special new type of film cartridge that is smaller than traditional film and offers a range of new features. The APS range provide a lot of the functions that you may now take for granted, zoom lenses, built in flash and red eye reduction, although not all cameras have all the features.

Typical Users.
Historically, APS cameras are aimed at people who are attracted to the idea of ease of use, no fuss photography. With features such as the choice of three different print formats, drop in film loading and the cameras themselves being small and easy to transport, they really do make life easy. Now with the recent introduction of the first SLR cameras for the Advanced Photo System the technology is also available to photographers who like to exert their own creative control over their pictures.

Major Features.
Not all APS cameras offer the full range of the features listed below. Check carefully before buying to ensure the camera you are considering has all the features that you would like.

Choice of Three Print Formats.
For each shot you can select whether you would like a classic 6"x4" or high definition TV (HDTV) 7"x4" or Panoramic 10"x4". It's never too late to change your mind though and if you would like a print in a different shape later this can be catered for.

Drop in Film Loading.
No more blank films. Simply open the lid, drop the film in and close the lid.

Index Print.
The Index Print shows each picture in thumbnail format. This makes it far easier for you to select the pictures you would like enlarged or reprinted. The negatives remain locked in the film roll itself. No more lost or damaged negatives.

Film Status Indicator.
The film itself carries a status icon to indicate whether the film is new, partially used, fully used or processed.

Mid Roll Change (MRC).
This gives you the facility to remove a half used film, start using a different one, before returning to complete shooting the original one later. This can be useful when you want to change to a film of a different speed or you would like individual films to contain a single subject matter.

Print Quality Improvement.
The camera can record magnetic and optical information at the time that you take the picture. This information can then be used by the processing equipment to ensure the highest print quality possible.

Titling.
Select from a number of supplied titles. The selected title can then be printed on the back of the picture.

Date & Time Recording.
Similar to the titling feature, this allows the date and time that the picture was taken to appear on the back of the picture.

Small, Easy to Carry Cameras.
Because the film size is smaller than a standard 35mm film, this means that the camera itself can be small and can often be slipped into a pocket.

Processed for Your Computer.
Processing services are available that allow the film to be digitized on to floppy disks and other media. These can then be read into your computer.

Points to Remember. Buying Film.
Take care when buying film for an APS camera. If you buy film for use in an ordinary 35mm compact camera, it cannot be used in an APS camera. These film types are not interchangeable.

Film Choice.
The current range of films is limited. Colour print film is not a problem, but finding slide film or black and white film can be difficult.

Camera Prices.
APS cameras are normally slightly more expensive than a compact camera with comparable features. It pays to shop around.

Film Processing Prices.
Processing costs are also higher. Again shop around and see what prices are on offer.

Prints.
Only a gloss finish is available.

Recommended APS Cameras
Fuji Nexia 230ix Zoom Great entry level APS camera with a 2.1x Fujinon zoom lens and built-in autoflash. Sleek and slender, fitting neatly into any pocket or purse. Lens cover, case, drop in loading, landscape mode, date print, fill in flash, auto focus, self timer red eye reduction. Street price around £60.
Fuji Nexia 3100ix Zoom 3x zoom. Ideal size to slip into a bag, pouch or pocket. Electron beam coated lens, multi-programmed flash and infrared pin-sharp autofocus, Lens cover, case, drop in loading, landscape mode, night portrait mode, mid roll change, date print, fill in flash, auto focus, self timer red eye reduction. Street price around £130.

APS Camera Advice Centre