If you love photography, particularly aesthetic ones, then you’ve come to the right page!
The desire for nostalgia and items from the past persists despite modern technological developments. We’re pretty sure you’ve noticed the visually-appealing pictures on Pinterest or Instagram that appear to have been snapped twenty years ago, yet have a modern feel. The trick? Film cameras, of course!
There’s something about film cameras that you can’t find in modern cameras, or even your phone cameras. They don’t just produce aesthetically-pleasing images – they’re satisfying to use, as well. If you’re new to film cameras, it can be tricky to pick the right one. That’s why we’ve got some tips and tricks, along with a few suggestions, to help you get started.
What to look for
Unfortunately, there aren’t many camera companies that still produce brand-new film cameras, so most shutterbugs choose old or vintage models. Chances are, you won’t mind a few scuffs and scratches if you were shopping for a film camera. In fact, those imperfections are what give each film camera its own personality.
You’ve probably heard of disposable cameras if you’ve done your research, or have been following Gen Z influencers on Instagram. Essentially, they are film cameras that can only be used once and cannot be loaded with fresh film. There are many film cameras that are user-friendly and can help you obtain the photos you want, depending on what you’re searching for and your budget. The following list includes some film cameras that are suitable for beginners:
Yashica MF-2
The Yashica MF-2 is a rangefinder film camera with a characteristic black and red body that was introduced in the 1980s. Because it excels at capturing moments in various lighting situations, it’s one of the best film cameras for beginners. Too dim? A slide-up automated flash appears in the queue. Issue focusing? The user-friendly auto-focus function will be useful. You shouldn’t have to worry about catching moving subjects while using a 1/125s shutter speed.
Canon AE-1
Due to its features and cost, this is one of the best film cameras for beginners overall. A single-lens reflex camera, the CANON AE-1 has automatic exposure and a focal plane shutter that enables lens switching. So, you’re new to photography and have no experience with manual shooting? With its automated mode, this camera makes it simple to shoot images. Additionally, because it has an internal light metre, you have the choice to take manual shots.
Kodak Ultra F9
The Kodak Ultra F9 comes in two striking colour schemes, including the company’s iconic black-and-yellow. It mixes vintage design with usability. It comes pre-configured with a built-in flash, a manual self-winding mechanism for a realistic film camera experience, and a fixed focus lens. Just insert a 35mm film roll, and start shooting. Overall, the Ultra F9 is one of Malaysia’s greatest entry-level film cameras due to its simplicity and vintage aesthetic.
Olympus OM-1
This 35mm single-lens reflex camera is among the tiniest and lightest ones you can get. Given that it is less expensive than the other options, this is yet another excellent choice for novices. But despite how straightforward it appears, it includes more complex settings that you can experiment with. However, given its diminutive size and low weight, it is less robust than previous versions and is more prone to damage if necessary precautions are not taken.
Olympus XA2
This small film camera, regarded as one of the greatest point-and-shoot models available, is undoubtedly fashionable right now. This is all due to its tough appearance and durability (thanks to its strong plastic casing); you can take it everywhere. Despite having relatively straightforward settings, it nonetheless produces remarkable outcomes. The absence of autofocus is this camera’s only drawback, although you may adjust the focus distance using the switch on the front.
Canon Sure Shot Supreme
The Canon Sure Shot Supreme is an inexpensive, basic point-and-shoot camera with a superb lens and autofocus that takes stunning pictures. It’s the ideal entry point for film photography! It has very basic settings, much like the Olympus XA2, but it also has some useful features that provide a variety of methods to make using the camera interesting and engaging.
If you’re looking for something to put your skills to the test, we suggest checking out some disposable cameras first. There are many alternatives to disposable cameras, some with great features and some without, so picking one might be difficult. When buying a disposable camera, you should always take the flash, waterproofness, film type, and amount of photos into consideration.
Kodak Fun Saver
One of the most well-liked disposable cameras – if not the most – is the Kodak FunSaver. With an 800 ISO colour negative film, you have a wide exposure range that gives you considerably more flexibility and enables you to take photos in direct sunshine without worrying about overexposing them. Shooting inside or in dimly lit areas is acceptable because it also works well in low light. It has a delicate grain and soft, warm tones.
Kodak Water & Sport Waterproof
Looking for a camera to use underwater? Think about the disposable Kodak Water & Sport Waterproof camera! It can be submerged up to 50 feet thanks to its sturdy construction, waterproof design, and shockproof frame, making it perfect for taking underwater pictures! It uses Kodak Max 800 film, which can generate images that are crisp and clear even when they are magnified and have extra sharpness and fine grain that is unmatched.
Fujifilm Simple Ace
The Fujifilm Simple Ace is best suited for using the flash at night when taking images with an ISO of 400. The camera is rather compact and portable, so you can take it nearly anyplace. Make sure there is sufficient daylight to clearly illuminate your subjects if you intend to use this camera during the day. It creates pictures with a soft, pleasing warm colour that everyone will like.
Fujifilm Quick Snap
The Fujifilm Quick Snap sparkles (literally) in low light thanks to a strong built-in flash. You won’t have any trouble taking pictures from a distance while still getting sharp, grain-free shots thanks to the flash’s three-meter range. Alternatively, using it in a room with strong lighting is just as enjoyable. But be careful not to set off the flash. Do you really want to blind anyone?
Ilford Harman Black & White
When using the traditional true black and white HP5 plus 400ISO film, the grain is just barely perceptible, and the exposure latitude is excellent, revealing even more details in the shadows. Even without a flash, it works well in low-light conditions and in the open.
Lomo 400 Simple Use
This unusual-looking camera features lomography 400-color negative film, a respectable exposure latitude, lovely tones, and excellent grain. Compared to Kodak and Fuji cameras, it may generate an image that is slightly softer but has a more distinctive appearance thanks to plastic optics.
