I have now pretty much abandoned the manual camera for a digital one. I like the idea of being able to take lots of pictures, and show them right away to the people I work with while in the field, to our guides. Children usually like taking the camera to shoot their own pictures, something which adds new ideas to what I would normally take pictures of. At the same time it seems that I tend to have more pictures but not necessarily many more that I would consider 'good' or worth doing something with. I realize that while I can shoot large quantities, I have to think carefully about what I want to take a picture of, and why.

Good point Catie.  Probably we have all (except Nathan) been there.  Digital provides immediate gratification so it requires a little more self-discipline (delete, delete, delete -- and the sooner the better or the decisions just get more difficult).  Digital also allows for easier and faster sharing of images, something that can be really important when working on projects with other people.  You can always take both if you have the cash to spare!

Right... I've been there, just that I've been there and back!

Since we do have the luxury of having both, I feel they complement each other. There are definitely times I would not lug my film gear around. And it's just no fun for the kids to play with; they keep looking for the instant preview on the back! That said, I can still see a role for film in terms of archival purposes although only in certain circumstances. I'm not sure if I would make that a blanket statement. Also, film has its unique and quirky qualities which I kind of like. So basically I'm not going to argue for either at this point.