This is a prototype FAQ that was started on 1999/4/17.  Currently, it is very incomplete.   If you have any ideas for new questions, please send them to me.

What is the point of APS?

The goal of the group that created the advanced photo system was to design the ultimate consumer film format.

What are some of the features of APS?

• Drop-in cartridge loading.
• Double-exposure prevention.  There is a visual indication of the exposure status on the cartridge, and cameras will refuse to load cartridges that have been exposed.
• Three different print formats on one roll of film.
• Mid-roll change.
• Automatic date, time, and title imprinting on the back of photographs.
• Smaller cartridge size and smaller cameras.
• Negatives returned in original cartridge.
• An index print is returned with the photos, so reprints can be ordered easily.

Should all APS equipment be destroyed and all APS users be killed?  In other words, are they going to take my 35mm cameras and equipment away from me?

APS was designed from day one to complement, not replace, 35mm technology.

Many people think there was no need to introduce a new film format, especially one with a smaller negative size.  Some people say 35mm should be enough for anybody.

I disagree.  I personally know people that are uncomfortable with 35mm cameras.   They often talk wistfully about how another format like 110 was so much easier.   They are afraid to touch the film when loading it, and then they fear they will mess up the spooling and get no pictures.  They expose film twice.  They do not know if a particular roll has been exposed or not.

In addition, date imprinting is helpful for those that take pictures infrequently and/or take a long time to develop their film.

Rather than thinking of APS as a poor replacement for 35mm, think of it as an excellent replacement for the Kodak Disc, 110, 126, etc.

If you think you will lose too much quality with a smaller film size, then do not use APS.  Many other people out there are taking APS pictures and are happy with the results they are getting.  There is no need to harrass them.  I am amazed by the anti-APS hostility out there.  Don't like it?  Don't use it.  It's just that simple.