Disposable cameras offer a convenient and inexpensive method to capture great photographic moments. Disposals can provide very good image quality when the photographer adheres to certain guidelines and tips. Not designed to replace a full size 35 mm camera, disposables act as a one-time-use camera at the fraction of the cost of a full size 35 mm. Disposable cameras come in various forms, 35 mm film, one-time use digital and even disposal cameras for underwater use.
Distance
Disposable or one-time-use cameras have a fixed focus lens. This means that everything from a certain distance (typically three to four feet) away from the camera to infinity has reasonably sharp focus. Since the lens does not focus, avoid getting too close to the subject or the resultant images end up blurry rather than sharp.
Pay close attention to the size of the image within the viewfinder. Keep ample distance around the subject and the viewfinder's edges, or parts of the image wind up cut off (tops of heads for example). Also, what you see does not correspond entirely with what you get in the final print. So while it's good to fill the frame with the subject and keep the appropriate distance from the subject, be aware that commercial printers crop a portion of the top and bottom of every image out of the final print.
The Flash
Most disposable cameras work best outdoors---even with a built-in flash. The camera's design does not allow a lot of light to enter and reach the film. When indoors, the closer you get to the image the better. The flash output reaches a maximum of ten feet, so try to get close while staying within the three to four foot guidelines. When indoors, always use the flash even under somewhat bright circumstances. When shooting at a sporting event or in other large open areas, flash becomes ineffective. Rely on the existing light conditions for image capture.
Processing
Fujifilm disposable cameras contain Fujicolor film. This film uses a process known as C-41 to develop the negatives. Most CVS, Walgreen and Wal-Mart stores offer this standard processing in their photo departments. The standard print size from this camera stands at 4 inches x 6 inches. Enlargements made from disposable cameras can reach 8 x 10 inches and still maintain relatively good quality. For best quality, develop and print the film at a lab that monitors its chemicals throughout the day.
Tags: final print, full size, three four, When indoors
