Best Film Camera to Buy
We spoke to Unique Photo’s Staff to find out the best cameras to buy for every budget.
If you’re just starting out in photography there can be a bit of confusion of which camera system to buy and what makes one better than the other. Years ago, photographers were dropping their 35mm systems and picking up digital cameras, but in recent years we have seen a resurgence in film.
Lauren, a Technical Sales Representative, had some ideas about why film has become popular again.
“Film has gotten super popular in recent years. I think people like that it's nostalgic, but also there is the physical aspect of film. You have to master how to use your camera, but there is always an uncertainty of if you got the shot until it develops,” Lauren said.
So if you dusted off an old film camera, found one in the garage or at a flea market, how can you be sure it will work?
“While we don’t offer repairs, we do offer used cameras for sale,” says Josh. “We can recommend places to bring it, if it is a simple repair. But honestly, sometimes it’s not worth the price of a repair and you can find a used camera in better condition for less than the cost of repairing the broken camera. That being said, we can assist in seeing if the camera is really broken, or if it really only needs a battery to get it started again.”
“We can also teach you how to use the camera. Our Understanding Your Camera courses teach you about aperture, shutter speeds, and picking the right film.” Says Justin. “You’ll be able to start out with a better understanding of how to make images and expose them correctly for film.”
Unique Photo’s Used Camera Technicians test and thoroughly examine every camera that comes in. There’s a 180 day warranty, so you can be confident in your purchase.
If you’re just getting started we compiled a list of cameras that would be perfect for any budget. But there are a few things to keep in mind while you are shopping for film cameras.
- Not all cameras come with a lens - Most listings only talk about the camera, but check the details of what comes with the camera.
- All cameras have different mounts- There isn’t directly a universal lens that fits all camera mounts- Do your research and see what lenses are available for the camera you are interested in
- Don’t Forget Power!- Along with doing your research on lenses, check to see what batteries the camera might take… Some cameras will not advance without battery power while others only use a battery to power the meter.
Canon AE-1 & AE-1 Program
One of the most celebrated cameras ever made- introduced in 1976, the AE-1 was sold in the millions -So you might find this camera easily. When it arrived in 1981, the AE-1 Program changed photography by offering a fully automatic SLR. The AE-1 and AE-1 Program both take Canon’s FD lens mount and you must have a 28A or 28L battery in order to operate it. Lenses can be easily found, but be on the lookout for the 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C., 135 mm f/2.5, and 85mm f/1.2L.
Pentax K1000
Made from 1976- 1997, the K1000 is known as being a tank of a camera with it’s mostly all metal body and fully mechanical operation allows for full operation, without batteries. However, there is a battery chamber for a single LR44, but this is only used for the lightmeter. This camera uses Pentax’s PK mount, be on the lookout for SMC 50mm f/1.7, SMC 35mm f/2, and 100mm f/4.
Canon EOS 1
Now, If you shoot a Canon D-SLR this camera might look familiar- The Canon 5D Series owes its lineage to the EOS-1. It feels just as solid as a 5D mk IV in the hands. This camera takes EF Mount lenses which are very plentiful and still being made today! Keep in mind that this camera takes 2CR5 batteries, so make sure you have a few on hand, not every gas station or convenience store has these readily available…
Nikon FM2
Nikon produced the FM2 from 1982 to 2001, is known for its dependability, the FM2 uses the F-Mount System- but steer clear of newer G series lenses made for digital, this camera would be best paired with the D Series or AI series lenses. It’s compact and mechanical, but it does take two LR44 batteries to run the lightmeter. Nikon lenses to look out for: 28mm f/2.8 E, 50mm f/1.8 E, and Nikon AF 135mm f/2 DC- which is a bokeh master.
Minolta X-700
An electronic camera with Aperture Priority, Program, Manual, and Blub settings, first introduced in 1981, this super popular camera was manufactured till 1999, which means, you can still find one readily available. Being fully electronic, you will need batteries. X-700 takes two LR-44 batteries to keep this camera going. This camera takes Minolta MD lenses, lookout for: MD 50mm f/1.7, MD Rokkor X 45mm f/2, and MD W.Rokkor 28mm f/2.8.