The Weekend - Buying a Camera (C0171)

A: Hello, ma'am, can I help you find something?
B: Yes, actually I'm looking to buy a camera.
A: We've got a wide selection do you know if you'd like a point-and-shoot, or something a little fancier? Are you shopping for yourself or for someone else?
B: Actually I'm buying a camera for my husband.
A: Ah, well then I'd recommend a nice entry-level digital SLR.
B: Yeah? Can I take a look at the SLRs you carry?
A: Sure thing, follow me. This here is the.
B: The Canon Eos. Yeah it's ok, but I'm looking for something that performs better in low light, has a better display panel, and longer battery life.
A: Oh, ah, umthe Nikon D60 is a nice option.
B: Yeah, but what kit lens does this camera come with? I don't want some bulky telephoto lens.
A: Oh, well this one has the, uh.
B: Looks to me like an 18-55mm lens. pretty standard, that will do. Not like my husband will be stalking celebrities or anything!
A: So, ahem, can I interest you in any acc...
B: Accessories? Do you carry polarizing filters?
A: Polarizing filter um we should! I'm sorry, ma'am. looks like we're sold out.
B: No you're not! There are some right here!
A: Oh, well, would you look at that! Po-la-ri-zing filters.
B: Thanks for your help, Ralph!
A: No problem, ma'am.

Key Vocabulary

point-and-shoot Any compact non-SLR camera with non-interchangeable lenses, using automatic settings and simplified controls. Generally desired by novices and casual users.
interest someone in try to persuade someone to buy, do, or eat something
lens a transparent optical device used to converge or diverge transmitted light and to form images
polarizing filter a camera lens filter used to control the plane of polarization of light entering the lens.
entry-level simple and appropriate to an inexperienced person

Supplementary Vocabulary

tripod a three-legged stand for a camera
filter a lens screen of dyed gelatin or glass for controlling color or for diminishing the intensity of light
exposure the process of light hitting a photosensitive surface, such as film or a digital image sensor
shutter a mechanical device for opening and closing the aperture of a camera lens to expose film
wide-angle lens a lens which has a wide coverage angle so it can take in a great deal of scene, usually any lens shorter than 42mm

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