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The 14 Best Film Cameras in 2024 (March Update)

The 14 Best Film Cameras in 2024 (March Update)

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Even with the advent of 4k resolution and pixel-perfect technology, the irreplaceable charm of film cameras is priceless. Any budding photographer and creative can attest to the authenticity and candidness of film photography supplies. 

As such, no matter how much we progress into the most spectacular of camera infiniteness, no extent of advanced specs can rival the straightforwardness of film. Talking about films, film cameras never go out of trend. They create a nostalgic feel representing photography over the decades. 

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If you’re looking to ignite or rediscover your love for film photography, we’ve got you covered!

 

What are the Best Film Cameras in 2024?

  1. Leica M-A — The best film camera overall (Editor’s Choice)
  2. Nikon F6 — The best Nikon SLR film camera
  3. Lomography Diana F+ — The most novel format film camera
  4. Canon AE-1 35mm Camera — The best canon film camera
  5. Nikon F100 35mm Camera — The best professional 35mm film camera
  6. Kodak FunSaver 35mm — The best film camera for affordability 
  7. Lomography Color Negative 400 Film — The best reloadable 35mm film camera
  8. Lomography Black and White Film Camera — The best black and white camera
  9. Holga 120 WPC Panoramic Pin Hole Camera — The best pinhole camera
  10. Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Camera — The best instant film camera
  11. Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 35mm — The most compact Canon film camera
  12. Olympus OM-10 OM10 35mm Camera — The best Olympus film camera
  13. Lomography La Sardina 8Ball Camera —  A wide-angle lens film camera
  14. Pentax K1000 — The best Pentax camera

The Best Film Cameras in 2024 Compared

Out top pick for the best film camera in the Leica M-A but other than this, we’ve also listed a couple of other great options.

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Best Film Camera Overall
Leica M-A (Typ 127) 35mm Film Rangefinder Camera, Black
Best Film Camera for Affordability 
KODAK FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera
Best Nikon SLR Film Camera 
Nikon F6 AF 35mm Film SLR Camera (Body Only)
Best Reloadable Film Camera
Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera Black & White Film
Best Instant Film Camera
FUJIFILM Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera
Title
Leica M-A (Typ 127) 35mm Film Rangefinder Camera, Black
KODAK FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera
Nikon F6 AF 35mm Film SLR Camera (Body Only)
Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera Black & White Film
FUJIFILM Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera
Prime Status
-
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
-
Amazon Prime
Type
35 mm Mechanical rangefinder
35mm
35 mm SLR
35mm Film
Instant Color Film Camera
Dimensions
5.4 x 1.5 x 3.0" / 138 x 38 x 77 mm
4.9 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches
158 × 119 × 77.5 mm
115 x 60 x 33mm
9.2 x 5.7 x 11.4cms
Star Rating
-
-
-
-
Reviews
-
-
-
-
5,131 Reviews
Price
$5,439.95
$18.49
$987.77
$19.90
$195.00
Best Film Camera Overall
Thumbnail
Leica M-A (Typ 127) 35mm Film Rangefinder Camera, Black
Title
Leica M-A (Typ 127) 35mm Film Rangefinder Camera, Black
Prime Status
-
Type
35 mm Mechanical rangefinder
Dimensions
5.4 x 1.5 x 3.0" / 138 x 38 x 77 mm
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Price
$5,439.95
Buy Now
Best Film Camera for Affordability 
Thumbnail
KODAK FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera
Title
KODAK FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Type
35mm
Dimensions
4.9 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Price
$18.49
Buy Now
Best Nikon SLR Film Camera 
Thumbnail
Nikon F6 AF 35mm Film SLR Camera (Body Only)
Title
Nikon F6 AF 35mm Film SLR Camera (Body Only)
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Type
35 mm SLR
Dimensions
158 × 119 × 77.5 mm
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Price
$987.77
Buy Now
Best Reloadable Film Camera
Thumbnail
Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera Black & White Film
Title
Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera Black & White Film
Prime Status
-
Type
35mm Film
Dimensions
115 x 60 x 33mm
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Price
$19.90
Buy Now
Best Instant Film Camera
Thumbnail
FUJIFILM Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera
Title
FUJIFILM Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Type
Instant Color Film Camera
Dimensions
9.2 x 5.7 x 11.4cms
Star Rating
Reviews
5,131 Reviews
Price
$195.00
Buy Now

 

How to Choose the Best Film Camera

How To Choose The Best Film Cameras
How To Choose The Best Film Cameras.

Manual Function

Although not every analog camera is equipped with customizable manual settings, you may find it in your best interest to get a camera that allows you to shoot fully manual for complete creative control. This means no automatic settings are used, and you will have to manually balance aperture, shutter speed, and ISO on your own to achieve proper lighting and the best exposure for your subject.


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A few film cameras will have an “M” on the dial, while others may have an “A.” Both letters stand for manual and automatic, respectively, and depending on what you’re going for, customizable settings may help you a lot more in getting the kinds of shots you want your way.

If you’re a beginner only looking to be introduced to the beauty of analog photography, automatic film cameras are still just as captivating.

Image Quality

This goes without saying, but when picking any camera it’s most important to look for image quality. While there are many factors that can contribute to this like aperture, sensor size, and exposure, it’s important to keep mind settings and photography aesthetic as well.

The main USP when it comes to film cameras is the overall tone and distinct feel they offer when it comes to photography. With film cameras, it comes down to fundamentals and not the bells and whistles which is why they’re still favored.

Although there are several digital cameras with bigger sensors and higher specifications, film cameras are, to many, the best form of photography.

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So keeping this in mind, we’d strongly recommend looking into film cameras that allow you to play around with exposure and aperture. After this, focusing on the camera’s unique image captures, autofocus, and image aesthetics is also important.

Maintenance

When purchasing a film camera, try to select one that’s easy to maintain, if not repair. As much as many film cameras are collectibles and unique pieces, the efforts and finances to keep them functioning at their best may be pricey.

That said, before buying your version of the best film camera, already consider where you can have it fixed if it breaks. Canon, Nikon, Lomography, Yashica, Holga, and Fujifilm are super examples of reliable film cameras. Plus, these brands are well-known, too, so you can trust repair shops will find them familiar.

Choosing a known camera brand also makes it a lot simpler for you to pick accessories and lenses should it come to that.

Price

When it comes down to choosing the best film cameras for your budget, it all depends on the amount you feel comfortable with investing. For film cameras, you can either opt for a used model, an unopened model, or a comparatively new iteration of an older model.

So If you’re going for the more sought-after cameras for your collection, depending on the model and color, it could end up costing you. Generally speaking, most film cameras cost anywhere from $50 all the way up to $3000.

For beginners just starting out, we’d recommend opting for the budget cameras and then slowly trading up once you know what you’re looking for.

 

Types of Film Cameras

Albeit many film cameras may sound dated, there still isn’t a shortage of choices. From SLRs to rangefinders and point-and-shoot to instant cameras, budding photography fanatics will have tons to choose from. Here’s a quick summary of what they are:

  • Single Lens Reflex (SLR)

    These cameras are the film equivalent of a digital single-lens reflex. Generally, these SLRs and DSLRs have the same internal mirror technology that enables photographers to see through a lens and get a preview of what a shot will look like once the image is captured. SLRs give creatives the freedom to swap lenses, making this a terrific choice for anyone looking for technical control over their settings.

  • Rangefinder Cameras

    A lot more compact and portable, rangefinders are similar to SLRs in that they use the same 35mm film. However, the main difference is that these don’t need a mirror to capture shots.

  • Point-and-Shoot Cameras

    As the name implies, these are cameras you can take with you and begin using to shoot immediately. These film cameras are automatic and are usually referred to as disposable cameras. Fortunately, there are now dozens of point-and-shoot reusable film cameras that anyone can enjoy.

  • Instant Cameras

    The name says it all. Instant cameras are essentially point-and-shoot cameras that print photographs almost instantaneously. Fujifilm and Kodak are fantastic examples of instant camera brands that produce tons of these in the market today. Read our blog on best instant cameras.

  • Pinhole Cameras

    these cameras are made of a chamber or sealed box with a tiny hole on one side. Images are created when light passes through the pinhole and projects an inverted photograph on one part of the chamber, and then onto the film.

Top 14 Best Film Cameras in 2024

1. Leica M-A  (Editor’s Choice)

Leica M-A
Leica M-A. Image credit: Leica / Amazon

The best film camera overall

Type: 35 mm Mechanical rangefinder | Exposure Control: Manual (shutter speed on body only; aperture on attached lens | External Flash Connection: Hot shoe with center contact | Shutter TypeFocal plane: mechanical rubber blanket slotted shutter with horizontal movement | Dimensions: 5.4 x 1.5 x 3.0″ / 138 x 38 x 77 mm.

Equipped with an all-metal body, this leader in a film camera is also dubbed as “pure mechanical excellence” by experts. Compatible with a wide range of M-mount lenses, its framing lines are also suitable to multiple lens combinations— 28/90 mm, 35/135 mm, and 50/75 mm.

The Leica M-A film camera is a powerful beast. With a top-notch build and design, this piece allows photographers to zero in on aperture, shutter speed, and focus, making shots crisp and well-lit.

First introduced in 2014, the Leica M-A comes with a sturdy ISO dial and zoom magnifier that can magnify up to 72 times. Unlike many older model film cameras, the Leica MA is relevant, stylish, and has a solid build. This Leica camera is one of the best film cameras out there for photographers who don’t mind working without a light meter.

Pros

Cons

➕ Durable build quality ➖ The Shutter speed is limited to 1/50-second
➕ Completely mechanical and silent while capturing photos ➖ Quite pricey
➕ The viewfinder is bright and suitable for clear shots

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Leica M-A (Typ 127) 35mm Film Rangefinder Camera, Black
  • Easy to use - photographer concentrates on focusing, aperture and shutter speed
  • Enclosed all-metal body with chrome brass top & bottom covers
  • This analog camera stays true to the roots of photography

 

2. Nikon F6 

Nikon F6
Nikon F6. Image credit: Nikon / Amazon

The best Nikon SLR film camera 

Type: 35 mm SLR | Lens mount: Nikon F-mount | Exposure: Program, shutter priority, aperture priority, manual | Flash: External flash | Weight: 975 g | Dimensions: 158 × 119 × 77.5 mm

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One of the most popular SLR cameras there is today is the Nikon F6. Packed with autofocus and an electronically controlled focal-plane shutter, it’s one of the more advanced film offerings still available in the market.

Equipped with multiple exposure modes like shutter priority, aperture priority, and manual, this standard 35mm Nikon piece is both user-friendly and a solid item designed to capture stunning images. 

Arguably the best SLR film camera, this camera comes with 100 TTF detection AF, exposure meter, and ISO that goes up to 6400. The Nikon F6 also comes with an ultra-fast burst mode that can take up to 8 frames per second.

So if you’re looking for a lightweight film camera that still holds up, the F6 is an excellent choice.

Pros

Cons

➕ Great image quality for portraits ➖ Slightly heavier than most current cameras
➕ Has an elegant build
➕ Good for exposures

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Nikon F6 AF 35mm Film SLR Camera (Body Only)
  • Type of Camera - Integral motor autofocus 35mm SLR (Single Lens Reflex) camera with electronically controlled focal-plane shutter.
  • Exposure Modes - Programmed Auto, Flexible Program, Shutter priority, Aperture Priority and Manual
  • Picture Format - 24mm x 36mm (standard 35mm film format)
  • Viewfinder - Fixed eyelevel pentaprism, built-in diopter adjustment (-2 to +1m-1)
  • Eyepoint - 18mm (at -10m-1) ; Power Source: Battery Holder MS-41 provided (two 3V Lithium batteries) Optional Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40 and AA type battery holder MS-40 available (for eight...

 

3. Lomography Diana F+ 

Lomography Diana F+
Lomography Diana F+. Image credit: Lomography / Amazon

The most novel format film camera

Focal Length: 29m | Pinhole diameter: 0.227mm | View angle: 103 degrees (17mm equivalent on standard 135 format) | Aperture: Pinhole, f/8, f/11 and f/16 | F stop: f/128 | Shutter type: Full manual T shutter | Dimensions: 5 x 3.75 x 3″ (12.5 x 9.5 x 7.6 cm)

If what you’re looking for is a film camera with a quirky aesthetic, the Lomography Diana F+ is a terrific choice. Utilizing 120mm film, its electronic flash is reminiscent of the good, old days, making it a fun experience to use. One of the more affordable pieces on the list, this item is equally a novelty product as it is a film camera. 

This medium format film camera is based on the Diana F produced in the 1960s. What does medium format mean? Medium format cameras typically use a 120 film roll which has 12 exposures. That said, you can get up to 16 exposures with the right mask in your camera.

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This camera comes with sunny, cloudy, partially cloudy, and even a pinhole function, helping you work with different types of natural light. The Diana F+ produces photos with a more dreamy tone, making it one of the best film cameras for aesthetic purposes.

Pros

Cons

➕ Amazing for pictures taken in natural light ➖ Uses 120 film roll that can be hard to find
➕ Affordable price ➖ Getting the exposure right with this camera is challenging
➕ Has a unique build design and aesthetic

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Lomography Diana F+ Medium Format Camera with Flash
200 Reviews
Lomography Diana F+ Medium Format Camera with Flash
  • Electronic Flash with color flash capability. Uses one AA battery
  • Variable shutter (daytime &for unlimited long exposures)
  • The Diana Flash works via a two-pronged plug adapter just like the original. It plugs directly into the Diana F+ camera body.
  • Film format 120 two adapters are included so that both the Diana Flash and Diana F+ are hotshoe-compatible

 

4. Canon AE-1 35mm Camera 

Canon AE-1
Canon AE-1. Image credit: Canon / Amazon

The best canon film camera

Type:  35 mm SLR | Lens mount: Canon FD | Film speed: ISO 12 to 3200 [manual] | Flash: Hot shoe | Shutter speed: range2 s to 1/1000 s| Battery: 4LR44 6V battery or 4 LR44 1.5 volt batteries| Weight: 575 g| Dimensions: 87 × 141 × 47.5 mm

If you’re serious about working on your film photography skills, let the Canon AE-1 35mm Camera help you realize that. Coming in with a 50mm f/1.8 lens, this Canon offering is loaded with an automatic exposure reader, allowing you to better determine the right settings for each environment.

Compatible with several lenses to supplement your shooting needs, this intuitive piece is a delight to use and one of the more competent film cameras available today.  

One of the most popular affordable SLR film cameras, this one comes with a built-in light meter, to help you set your ISO. One drawback for this camera, like most dated film cameras, is that it requires you to use batteries.

Pros

Cons

➕ One of the best film cameras available at an affordable price ➖ A bit heavy for those used to digital cameras
➕ Makes for crisp, clear, and vibrant photos ➖ Has difficulty competing with some of the digital cameras available these days
➕ Great for 35mm photography

 

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Canon AE-1 35mm Film Camera w/ 50mm 1:1.8 Lens
  • 35mm SLR (Single-Lens-Reflex) camera with electronically controlled AE (Automatic Exposure) and focal plane shutter.
  • Canon FD series interchangeable lenses with full aperture metering and AE coupling. Canon FL series with stopped-down metering.
  • Standard lenses for the Canon AE are Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C, Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C, Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 S.C.
  • Canon Breech-Lock mount, Canon FD, FL and R lenses can be used. The viewfinder is fixed eye-level pentaprism with a field of view that is 93.5% vertical and 96% horizontal coverage of the actual...
  • Viewfinder information includes aperture scale with meter needle and stopped-down metering which also serves as a battery charge level check mark.

 

5. Nikon F100 35mm Camera

Nikon F100
Nikon F100. Image credit: Nikon / Amazon

The best professional 35mm film camera

Type: 35mm SLR | Lens Mount: AF-D, AF-I, AF-S (accepts AF, AIS mounts with limitations) | Focus Modes: One shot AF, Predictive AF & Manual | Focus Type: TTL Phase detection (5-point AF system with 3 crosshair sensors) | Exposure Modes: Program AE, Flexible program, Shutter priority, Aperture priority, Manual & Auto 3D TTL flash | Dimensions: 6.1 x 4.5 x 2.6″ (155 x 113 x 66mm) WxHxD

With its premium flexibility and compact size, the Nikon F100 35mm Camera, is a fantastic choice for every film photography enthusiast. The camera has a strong and lightweight alloy body made of magnesium. With its capacity to shoot up to 4.5 frames per second, this camera is loaded with a professional feature set, allowing you to customize your settings and capture your subjects the best way you can. It is best for individuals who are seeking high-performance flexibility.  

Pros

Cons

➕ An affordable, professional-quality film camera ➖ The camera can feel awkward when used for longer periods of time
➕ The minimum shutter speed is 1/8,000 ➖ The autofocus is unreliable in darker settings
➕ Comes with over 22 programmable settings

 

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

NIKON F100 35mm SLR Camera Body
  • The F100 a 35mm SLR body geared to the professional and is situated beyond the N90 and behind the F5 as the #2 top camera in the Nikon line
  • With its strong but lightweight Magnesium Alloy body, the F100 meets the needs of certain professionals seeking compact size along with high-performance flexibility
  • Built-in motor drive shoots at up 4.5 frames per second
  • 10-Segment 3D Matrix Meter plus Center-Weight and 5-Area modes
  • 5 Area Autofocus system with Dynamic Autofocus

 

6. Kodak FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera

Kodak FunSaver

The best single-use film camera

Film Format Type: 35mm | Model Name: Kodak FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera | Item Dimensions:  LxWxH4.9 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches | Item Weight: 4.96 Ounces

If what you’re looking for is a temporary introduction to the world of film photography, the Kodak FunSaver 35mm Single-Use Camera is all you’ll need. As the name implies, it’s a single-use product, so when your film runs out, you can get rid of it. The camera has a compact and lightweight body at an affordable price. Perfect for traveling, this Kodak offering continues to be one of the most consumed film cameras worldwide. 

Pros

Cons

➕ Has impressive clarity and focus for its price ➖ The build feels flimsy and almost like a toy
➕ Quite affordable ➖ Not as impressive as some of the higher end cameras on the market
➕ Disposable — Perfect for single-use
➕ Compact and lightweight

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
KODAK FunSaver 35mm Single Use Camera
  • Product Type:Camera Film
  • Item Package Dimension:3.81 Cm L X 6.604 Cm W X 13.462 Cm H
  • Item Package Weight:0.159 Kg
  • Country Of Origin: United States

 

7. Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera Color Negative 400 Film 

Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera Color Negative 400 Film 
Lomography Simple Use Camera. Image credit: Lomography / Amazon

The best standard reloadable 35mm film camera

Film Format: 35mm Film | Lens Focal Length: 31mm | Shutter Speed: 1/120s | Aperture: f/9 | Flash: Built-in Flash (Press & Hold to Charge), 15-second Recharge Time | Battery: 1 x AA | Battery Dimensions (mm): 115 x 60 x 33

Similar to Kodak FunSaver, the Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera is a standard 35mm film camera that’s easy to use for beginners and experts alike.

Minus all the fancy bells and whistles most film cameras on this list possess, this Lomography item extends the basic goods and tools needed to experience what it means to shoot with film. And with colorful filters attached by the flash of the camera, photographers can also play with the hues and shades of their photos

Pros

Cons

➕ Compact and lightweight ➖ Reloading film can be a little complicated.
➕  Nostalgic and fun to operate
➕ Easy to use

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera Color Negative 400 Film
  • Preloaded with Color Negative 400 Film for classic analogue character
  • Built-in flash & color gel filters to mix and match
  • Perfect for beginners, parties, weddings, making memories
  • Get your pictures developed at any photo lab
  • Reload and Keep Shooting – unlike usual disposable cameras

 

8. Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera Black & White Film

Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera Black & White Film

The best black and white film camera

Film Format: 35mm Film | Lens Focal Length: 31mm | Shutter Speed: 1/120s | Aperture: f/9 | Flash: Built-in Flash (Press & Hold to Charge), 15-second Recharge Time | Battery: 1 x AA Battery |  Dimensions (mm): 115 x 60 x 33

Still one of Lomography’s best pieces, their Black & White film camera is very much like its Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera sibling sans the filters.

Pre-loaded with Lady Grey ISO 400 film, this item is perfect for capturing moody shots and black and white portraits

Pros

Cons

➕ Comes with built-in flash ➖ A bit more expensive compared to other disposable cameras
➕  The film can be replaced
➕ Simple to use

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

 

9. Holga 120 WPC Panoramic Pin Hole Camera 

Holga 120 WPC Panoramic Pin Hole Camera
Holga 120 WPC Panoramic Pin Hole Camera. Image credit: Holga / Amazon

The best pinhole camera

Film Format Type:  6×12 | Exposure Control Type:  Automatic | Item Dimensions: LxWxH 9.8 x 5.3 x 5 inches Minimum Shutter:  Speed 7 seconds | Dimensions: 9.8 x 5.3 x 5 inches

Pinhole cameras are a blast to use, solely because how you take shots with these cameras is no longer the mainstream method of capturing moments.

Allowing photographers to enjoy super-wide panoramic views and horizontal exposure angling, the Holga 120 WPC Panoramic Pin Hole Camera provides a distinct flexibility and experience standard 35mm cameras don’t give.

Pros

Cons

➕ Creates amazing black and white panoramas ➖ Has a plasticky feel
➕  Impressive exposure time
➕ Easy to load and use

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
Holga 120 WPC Panoramic Pin Hole Camera Wide Format Film Lomo Camera Black
  • Pinhole Exposure: It lets light pass through the pin hole, to hit the film directly, causing exposure without passing through any lens.
  • Panoramic View: The camera enjoys a super wide panoramic view with the horizontal exposure angle reaching as wide as 120 degree. Aperture: F133.
  • Film to Use: Accommodate all 120 format films. The use of exposure speed ASA 100 films on sunny days and ASA 400 on cloudy days or indoor occasions is recommended.
  • Two different Frame Size Masks: one is for 8 frames of 6x9 cm each per roll and another is for 6 frames of 6x12 cm each per roll.
  • Multiple-Exposures Effect: As the film is advanced manually, the camera can help achieve special effects through multiple exposures by NOT advancing the film after a frame has been exposed. Each...

 

 

10. Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera

Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera. Image credit: Fujifilm / Amazon

The best instant film camera

Film: Fujifilm Instant Color Film “instax mini” (separately available) | Lens: Move in / out type lens, 2 components, 2 elements, f=60mm, F=12.7 | Film size: 86mm x 54mm | Viewfinder: Real image finder, 0.37x, with target spot and parallax adjustment for macro mode | Film feeding out: Automatic

While this list isn’t dedicated to the best instant film cameras, it would be remiss not to mention that the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic is a stunning piece on its own.

Loaded with the goods to automatically detect the brightness and adjust flash and shutter settings, this Fujifilm offering remains to be a sought-after instant film camera that packs just the right bells and whistles to mesh the vintage feel of film photography with the speed of modern cameras.

Pros

Cons

➕  Immediately creates polaroids with a retro aesthetic. ➖ A bit pricey
➕  Good build and image quality
➕ Allows the use of different modes

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

FUJIFILM Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera
5,131 Reviews
FUJIFILM Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera
  • Automatically Detects The Brightness Of The Surrounding And Adjusts The Amount Of Flash And Shutter Speed To Optimize Photo Quality
  • Double Exposure Mode 2 Images Are Produced On 1 Film Sheet By Pressing The Shutter Twice; Shutter Release: Programmed Electronic Shutter Release, 1.8 - 1/400 Sec Shutter Speeds
  • Bulb Mode The Shutter Remains Open While The Shutter Button Is Depressed (10 Seconds Maximum) And A Light Trail Can Be Photographed
  • Macro Mode Short Distance Photography As Close As 30 To 60 Centimeter; Lens: Move In Or Out Type Lens, 2 Components, 2 Elements, F=60 Millimeter, F=12.7
  • English (Publication Language)

 

11. Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 35mm Camera

Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 — The most compact canon film camera
Canon Sure Shot Tele 80. Image credit: Canon

The most compact canon film camera

Type: Fully automatic 35mm Lens-Shutter autofocus camera with two focal lengths | Picture Size: 24×36 mm and panorama (13×36 mm) (Japanese version only) | AF System: 3-point Smart Autofocus, close-up warning provided. 0.6 m – infinity. Prefocus enabled | Lens: 38mm f/3.7 (3 elements in 3 groups), 80mm f/7.3 (6 elements in 6 groups) | Dimensions & Weight: 128 x 70 x 57 mm, 235 g (without battery) |

Another Canon powerhouse on this list is the Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 35mm Camera. Equipped with an easy view real image viewfinder, this film camera provides the technical insides, strong enough to produce modern-looking pictures while retaining its film photography aesthetic.

Also packed with a red-eye reduction feature, this item is considered a hybrid of digital and analog films minus the back screen. 

Pros

Cons

➕ Good image quality ➖ The zoom only has two options
➕ Easy to operate
➕ Comes with an easy view finder

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 35mm Camera
  • Fully automatic compact 35mm camera with built in 38/80mm dual focal length lens
  • Large Easy View real image viewfinder for easy use even with eyeglasses
  • High precision 3 point Smart Autofocus
  • Built in automatic multifunction flash with red eye reduction
  • Mode Dial for simplified selection of automatic operation modes

 

12. Olympus OM-10 OM10 35mm Manual Focus Film Camera

Olympus OM-10 OM10
Olympus OM-10 OM10. Image credit: Olympus / Amazon

The best Olympus film camera

Type:  SLR | Lens mount: Olympus OM mount| Size: 136 x 83 x 50 mm | Screen size: 24 x 36 mm | Weight: 430g (15.17 oz) | Sensitivity range: ISO25-ISO1600 | Mount: Olympus OM mount | Dimensions: 136 x 83 x 50 mm

Another stunning SLR on our list of film cameras, the Olympus OM-10 OM10 extends custom ISO, speed, and aperture settings, and provides an OM lens Mount system with a DOF preview button.

Definitely one of the higher-end contenders here, this piece is perfect for the creative who’s more comfortable using modern cameras but is looking to replicate the photography experience with a classic twist. 

Pros

Cons

➕ Good image quality in versatile environments ➖ Difficult to fix or replace parts
➕  Can customize ISO, speed, and aperture
➕ Smaller and lighter than the majority of current digital cameras

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Olympus OM-10 OM10 35mm Manual Focus Film Camera And Lens Combo
  • Olympus OM10 35MM SLR film Camera
  • Hot shoe mount flash compatible
  • Custom ISO, Speed and Aperture settings.
  • OM lens Mount system with DOF preview button

13. Lomography La Sardina 8Ball Camera

Lomography La Sardina 8Ball Camera
Lomography La Sardina 8Ball Camera. Image credit: Lomography / Amazon

The best Lomography wide-angle lens film camera

Film Type: 35 mm (135) | Image Area: a1.4 x 0.9″ / 36 x 24 mm | Lens Focal Length: 22mm | Shutter Speed: N: 1/100 sec. | Focus System: Two-step: 2-3.3′ / 0.6-1 m, 3.3′ / 1 m to infinity | Dimensions: 9.29 x 6.69 x 3.54 inches

Another novel Lomography offering is the La Sardina 8Ball Camera. Packed with an 89-degree field-of-view wide-angle lens, this film camera captures all the necessary action in a compact device that’s both incredibly functional and with an interesting aesthetic.

Also very much customizable, this piece can be painted and drawn on, making it extra special to anyone who wants to personalize how their film camera looks. 

Pros

Cons

➕ Solid image quality with a retro look ➖ Tendency to add glare to some photos
➕  Unique and aesthetic design
➕ Has a wide-angle lens

Latest Price on Amazon:

Lomography La Sardina 8Ball Camera [Camera]
  • 22mm Wide-Angle Lens
  • multiple exposure and long exposure
  • 2 Simple-to-use Focusing Settings
  • 35mm film

 

14. Pentax K1000 

Pentax K1000
Pentax K1000. Image credit: Pentax / Amazon

The best Pentax camera

Type: SLR | Film Format Type: 35mm | Minimum shutter speed: 1/1000 seconds | | Weight: 1.65 pounds | Dimensions: 7.72 x 4.29 x 4.29 inches

The Pentax K1000 is an affordable, manual camera, designed in a time before anything digital. Famous for being associated with students during its heyday, this impressive camera is reliable and doesn’t require batteries to run.

Although it was created in a much simpler time, the K1000 takes great images with only three aspects to play around with. With an impressive exposure meter and full-aperture coupled metering, this 35 mm film camera is one of the greats.

Pros

Cons

➕ Great image quality ➖ No self timer
➕  Has an in-finder zone-system indicator in its exposure meter ➖ No autofocus or custom functions
➕ No batteries required

Latest Price on Amazon:

Pentax K1000 Manual Focus SLR Film Camera with Pentax 50mm Lens
  • The Pentax K1000 35mm SLR is one of photography's greatest, most popular and longest-lived cameras.
  • This Pentax film camera is completely mechanical and needs no battery to run, however, you must purchase an A76 cell battery to run the light meter.
  • Unlike other SLR and DSLR cameras, the K1000 is simple and has little to no learning curve. There is three shooting controls: aperture, shutter speed and focus. You set the film speed when you load...
  • An extraordinary simple camera that forces you to think about your picture instead of your camera. As a result, it's recommended by most photography teachers, instructors, and professors to be used in...
  • The Pentax K1000 is so brilliant that you never need to turn the meter or camera on or off: both are always on for instant picture taking

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best film camera?

Despite there being several of the best film cameras on our list, we’ve picked the Leica M-A as the best because it is a favorite among camera enthusiasts and it offers impressive image quality and an overall pleasing aesthetic.

What is a good Olympus film camera?

The Olympus OM10 OM 10 and the Olympus OM1 film cameras are solid choices and are still popular among camera enthusiasts today.

What are some good film cameras for beginners?

The Pentax K1000, deemed ‘the student camera’, is a great camera for beginners to start out with.

What is the best film camera for aesthetics?

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera is a great camera for vintage aesthetic photography.

 

More Top Gear

 

The Best Film Cameras in 2024 Compared

Overall, these are all magnificent film cameras that help you easily ignite your love for photography. Each item on this list presents unique experiences, able to teach you about composition, color, framing, technique, and art direction.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, and intentionality to be superb in your craft relies on how you use your tools. The best film cameras today become only the best when you’re deliberate about bettering your style and approach.

You can also read our blog on best point and shoot cameras. Do you have any more film camera suggestions that you think are amazing but is not on our list? Let us know in the comments below!

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