Although the media used to capture images differ in digital and film cameras, the ability to capture quality images, ease of use and wide acceptance are qualities shared by both systems.
Dynamic Range
Digital cameras lack the highlight-rendering capabilities of film cameras. Images with a high dynamic range and specular highlights look more natural on film than with digital.
Image Quality
Digital cameras do not produce grain. Film images at high ISO levels produce grain that affects image quality. Digital cameras utilize signal-to-noise ratio as an image quality measurement. Digital images at high ISO levels produce more noise than at lower ISO levels.
Longevity
Negatives and prints fade with time even when processed under the best archival circumstances. Digital images are subject to accidental erasure and loss from camera or computer failure.
Total Cost
Initial costs for professional-level digital cameras are higher than for film cameras, including most large-format film cameras. Film cameras have the added expense of film, developing and scanning (if the end result is used electronically).
Outcome
As of 2009, both digital and film cameras offer spectacular image quality and low total cost of ownership. Personal preference is the deciding factor in the purchase of either system.
Tags: Digital cameras, film cameras, image quality, digital film, digital film cameras, Digital images, high levels