B. Mann Consulting

I was listening to CBC this evening and heard a piece (presumably heard everywhere, not just Ottawa) that talked about the differences in price of printing photos using a digital camera vs. a film camera. One of the most horribly researched pieces I've ever heard on CBC, and this was from their supposed "national technology column[ist]", Tod Maffin. So I wrote him an email:

Todd:

I just listened to your piece on the costs of Digital vs. Print. I think you did a real disservice on the issue.

First of all, memory cards come bundled with the digital camera, they are not an extra cost. If you choose to buy an additional memory card (as many do) that is something extra, just like buying extra rolls of film. As well, they can be re-used essentially indefinitely, not "100s, maybe a 1,000 times" as you stated in your piece.

Now, on to the cost difference with printing. I think that 4 "messed up shots" is probably a bit low for the average picture taker, but I'll let that one pass.

Printing photos at home is absolutely not cost effective. I *never* recommend that. But I still think your numbers with regards to $80 for 20 prints in ink costs is way off. I personally have seen people print 100 5x7s at high-quality on a single $40 ink cartridge.

My recommendation for people that want prints from their digital camera is to go to their local camera or electronics store and get prints made. Even Wal-Mart will print from digital these days. Pricing can range, but it is typically between 39¢ - 59¢ per print.

So, at best, the costs are very close to equal, and you are only printing the photos you truly want, never mind any of the other benefits of digital photos.