Beginner Film Camera Guide - For When you want the Magic of Film without the Fuss.
Unsure what the difference is between a Point-and-Shoot or an SLR camera? Do you want to just capture the moment and not worry about whether the photo actually worked? Have you ever looked at a film camera, seen all the buttons and dials and put the camera back down? I certainly have. Fear not here is a quick guide and our top five beginner-friendly film cameras to get you started.
What are the different types of film cameras?
With so many film cameras out there - each with unique features and long names - choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. To make things easier, here’s a quick bullet point guide into the different types of film cameras and how you can tell the difference between them all.
Point and Shoot - It is in the name just point at your subject and shoot the photo. These cameras are usually lightweight, automatic and relatively affordable.
SLR (Single Lens Reflex) - if you imagine what a quote on quote classic ‘film camera’ looks like: a rectangular metallic body with a leather wrap and a lens in the middle, you are most probably picturing an SLR. They can be both manual (so you have control over all your dials and buttons), and automatic with autoexposure and autofocus (the camera does part the work for you).
These two are the most commonly wanted cameras and are perfect for beginners. However, other types of film cameras you might come across are:
- TLR ( Twin Reflex Cameras) \ Medium Format Cameras - These cameras take 120 film which is a larger film than the usual 35mm film.
- Viewfinder cameras - a camera that makes you do all the work, especially focusing your image.
- Folding cameras - Think of the Victorian cameras you see in museums. These can literally fold up and fit inside your pocket.
- Rangefinder - similar to viewfinder cameras with being fully manual but with a twist. When you put the camera to your eye, you will see double through the viewfinder, what you have to do is match the two images up.
Our Top Five Beginner Film Cameras
Now for the fun part choosing your camera! If you are just starting, an SLR or Point-and-Shoot is your best bet Here are five beginner-friendly cameras to kick off your film journey.
Canon Sureshot EX - Point and Shoot- Fully automatic camera which winds and advances the film for you, features a self-timer great for solo shots, and a built-in flash.
Shop the Canon Sureshot EX here!
Konica Z-up 110 - Point and Shoot - Automatic, built-in flash, and get creative with its zoom lens. All you need to do is just point and shoot!
Shop the Konica Z-up 110 here!
Hanimex 35 ES - Point and Shoot - Unsure if film photography is for you? This affordable, easy-to-use camera features a built-in flash, fixed 1/125 shutter speed and manual winding.
Olympus OM-10 - SLR - A cult classic and beginner-friendly SLR with automatic mode for easy shooting. Add a manual adapter to control shutter speed and level up your film photography.
Canon A-1 - SLR - Fully automatic mode and focus adjustment via the lens. It also offers shutter and aperture priority modes, letting you control one element while the camera controls the rest. This camera is great if you are looking to slowly level up your skills while having the insurance of automatic when you just want to take a picture.
Finding the right film camera doesn't have to be hard. We hope this guide helps! Check out more Point-and-Shoot cameras here or explore SLRs here.