The Best Film Camera You Can Buy in 2024

The best film cameras are the ones that are still in operation, thus we've chosen ten "classic" film cameras that you can still find in good working order today. There are many more that we could have mentioned, but we chose them based on factors like price, reputation, and popularity, as well as a couple almost-forgotten gems.

1. Olympus OM-1

Important Specifications 

• Brand: OM System

• Model Name: OM System

• Form Factor: Mirrorless

• Effective Still Resolution: 20000000 MP

• Special Feature: Live View

• Color: Black

• Connectivity Technology: HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

• Screen Size: 3 Inches

• Photo Sensor Size: Micro Four Thirds

• Flash Memory Type: SD, SDHC (UHS-I / II), SDXC(UHS-I / II)

Product's highlights

The Olympus OM-1 was one of the most popular models of the 1970s, a heyday for 35mm SLRs. A more expensive OM-2 and a less priced plastic OM-10 with additional aperture-priority exposure options flanked the fully manual SLR. The same team that created the PEN and PEN F, the models that served as the foundation for today's digital PEN models, also created the OM-1. Even though the OM-1 was small compared to other then-larger, heavier SLRs, it nonetheless possessed a large, bright optical viewfinder and even had replaceable focusing screens. Before the advent of DX coding on film canisters, the shutter speed was unusually changed by a ring around the lens, while a large dial at the top of the camera was reserved for setting the ASA (ISO) number for an internal light meter.

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Pros

• Size and weight are small.

• Enormous viewfinder

• Mechanical only operation

Cons

• Only use manual exposure

2. Nikon F6

Important Specifications 

• Brand: Nikon

• Film Format Type: 35mm

• Item Weight: 3.4 Pounds

• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 3.1 x 6.2 x 4.7 inches

• Model Name: 1799

• Camera Lens Description: 35 millimeters

Product's highlights

A strong SLR choice that combines both film and digital functionality is the Nikon F6.

Unfortunately, new versions of this camera are not available, however there are still used models available on Amazon. Because it is loaded with cutting-edge capabilities like autofocus and a variety of exposure options, it was particularly well-liked during the golden age of cinema. However, because film is still used, you still get some really stunning classic outcomes.

The majority of the excellent image quality and wonderful construction offered by this camera are made possible by the cutting-edge technologies I discussed before. Fortunately, anyone can pick up the F6 and start taking pictures because it's so simple to use! It is slightly heavier than many contemporary cameras.

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Pros

• Amazing construction

• Superb SLR attributes

• Lovely exposure choices

Cons

• Heavy

3. Canon AE-1

Important Specifications 

• Brand: Canon

• Film Format Type: 35mm

• Item Weight: 17 Ounces

• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 4 x 4 x 2 inches

• Model Name: Canon AE-1

• Film Color: Color, black-and-white

Product's highlights

Another SLR camera that is still highly well-liked by film users is the Canon AE-1. The Canon AE-1 continues to show off a great blend between digital and film with a fantastic exposure meter to assist ensure your images look exactly how you want them to.

The Nikon F6 seen above shares characteristics with the AE-1. While it often ships with a 50mm lens, it also has a remarkably diverse selection of other lenses that may be purchased. The fantastic lens array is largely responsible for the beautiful, vivid, and crisp appearance of the images.

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Pros

• SLR camera loaded with beneficial features

• Wonderful exposure meter

• Stunning lens choices

Cons

• Heavy

4. Pentax K1000

Important Specifications 

• Brand: Pentax

• Film Format Type: 35mm

• Item Weight: 1.65 Pounds

• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 6 x 2 x 4 inches

• Model Name: K1000

• Film Color: Black and white OR Color

Product's highlights

While I don't advise it for novices, the Pentax K1000 is an excellent alternative for serious photographers. It was once closely linked to photography students.

Nothing extravagant is included with the K1000. It is a film camera from start to finish and doesn't even need batteries! Simply load the film, then begin shooting.

The Pentax K1000 has shown to be quite durable and is still a great choice. You are truly forced to concentrate on your skill because there are just three factors to change. This camera comes with an exposure and aperture meter to help you make setting decisions.

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Pros

• Very robust

• Simple film camera with accurate metering

• No need for batteries

Cons

• No additional features

5. Fujifilm Instax Mini 90

Important Specifications 

• Brand: Fujifilm

• Color: Brown

• Film Format Type: Instant

• Item Weight: 1 Pounds

• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 3.6 x 2.2 x 4.5 inches

• Included Components: Instax Mini 90 Classic Instant Camera (brown)

Product's highlights

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 is an excellent choice for instant cameras, which also function as still-film cameras. It is a modern instant film camera, to be clear, but it still provides lots of film-shooting fun!

The design is quite lovely, and those who care about aesthetics will undoubtedly appreciate the polished metal structure and the cozy grip. Numerous digital features, including an LCD screen, a tripod mount, and shooting modes like "Sport" and "Macro," are also available with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90.

Thanks to the rapid prints, this camera is enjoyable to use with friends and during gatherings. The pictures all have a timeless, old feel about them.

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Pros

• Outstanding instant camera

• Every image produced has a lovely vintage feel.

• Includes a variety of modes

Cons

• The more expensive end (for what it is)

1. Are digital photos superior to film photos?

Digital and film both have their drawbacks. They just differ, and they each provide various benefits to different photographers. Film might be the appropriate choice for you if you're the kind of photographer who favors more thought-out, artistic photos. Digital will be the best choice, though, if you're a quick-thinking photographer who likes to shoot plenty of pictures.

2. Is film photography extinct?

No way! Many photographers, including several highly regarded professionals, continue to use film for their photography. As stated in the article, film has some advantages that digital can't match (but digital has its own benefits, too!).

3. Is film photography more affordable than digital?

Depending on how you view it, yes. It will be much less expensive to get a quality film camera and a few nice film cameras than their digital equivalents. Therefore, the initial costs are much lower. However, once your career as a film photographer truly takes off, you'll start spending money on film and film development, which may add up rapidly.

Eventually, assuming you shoot and process your photographs on a regular basis, I'd anticipate film photography to be more expensive than digital.

There are many advantages to shooting film. You are more selective while capturing pictures because you have 36 chances.

You may achieve a retro look without using post-processing or additional effects. Investing in a film camera will expand your photographic horizons.

The cost of film cameras is increasing. Purchasing one now, before the price increases, is a wise move. We really hope that our list was helpful in your search for the best film camera. And if you care about other kinds of camera such as: best camera for photography, best trail camera, best video camera…, check our posts.