Film photography has seen a resurgence in recent years, attracting both new enthusiasts and seasoned photographers who appreciate the distinct qualities that film brings to their work. Among the various film formats, 35mm remains the most popular due to its balance of image quality, portability, and ease of use. Whether you’re new to film photography or looking to expand your collection, finding the right 35mm camera is essential. This guide covers some of the best compact 35mm cameras available in 2024, across various price ranges and styles.
The Best 35mm Film SLRs
Ultra-Bargain SLR: Yashica FX-103 Program
The Yashica FX-103 Program stands out as an excellent entry-level option for those seeking a reliable and affordable SLR. This camera is equipped with the Contax Yashica (C/Y) bayonet mount, which opens the door to a range of high-quality Contax Zeiss lenses. Despite its budget-friendly price, often under $100, the FX-103 Program offers features such as Program, High-Speed Program, Aperture Priority, and Manual modes. With an ASA range from 12 to 3200, it handles a wide variety of lighting conditions. It’s a versatile choice for beginners or anyone looking for a capable, budget-friendly SLR.
Best Bargain SLR: Minolta X-570 or X-700
The Minolta X-570 and X-700 are superb options for photographers who want more features without breaking the bank. The X-700, with its Program, Aperture Priority, and Manual modes, provides flexibility, though the X-570 is nearly identical aside from the lack of Program mode. Both models are known for their robust build and excellent Minolta lenses, which are available at reasonable prices. The X-700 is particularly favored for its user-friendly design and the availability of a wide range of affordable lenses, including the 58mm f/1.2 Rokkor, which is renowned for its dreamy, wide-open images.
Best Mid-Range SLR: Nikon F3 / F3HP
The Nikon F3 is a legendary camera, known for its ruggedness, reliability, and professional-level features. It is the successor to the iconic Nikon F2 but with modern conveniences such as a built-in light meter and aperture-priority automation. The F3HP variant offers a high-eyepoint finder, making it easier to use for those who wear glasses. The F3’s interchangeable finders and focusing screens provide versatility, making it a favorite among serious photographers. Despite being an electronically controlled camera, the F3’s durability is well-documented, making it a sound investment for anyone looking for a mid-range SLR.
Best Premium SLR: Canon EOS-1V or Nikon F6
At the top of the 35mm SLR category are the Canon EOS-1V and Nikon F6, two of the finest film cameras ever made. The Canon EOS-1V, released in 2000, is a technological marvel with five metering modes, 45-zone TTL phase detection autofocus, and a top shooting speed of 10 frames per second. It’s compatible with all Canon EF lenses, making it a great choice for those already invested in Canon’s system.
The Nikon F6, released in 2004, offers a more traditional design with a smaller, lighter body and Nikon’s renowned Multi-CAM 2000 autofocus sensor. It’s compatible with almost all F-mount lenses since 1977, providing a vast array of lens options. Both cameras were among the last professional film cameras produced and remain highly sought after for their build quality and performance.
The Best 35mm Film Compact Cameras
Best Compact 35mm Camera: Minox 35 GL or GT
The Minox 35 series offers some of the smallest 35mm cameras ever made, making them perfect for those seeking discretion and portability. The Minox 35 GL and GT are particularly notable for their compact size, zone focusing, and quiet operation. Equipped with a 35mm f/2.8 lens, these cameras deliver sharp images in a remarkably small package. However, they come with limitations such as limited exposure control and a delicate leaf shutter. Despite these quirks, the Minox 35 series remains a favorite among street photographers and those who appreciate minimalist design.
Best Compact 35mm Camera: Olympus XA series
The Olympus XA series, designed by the legendary Yoshihisa Maitani, offers a range of features in a small, pocketable form factor. The original Olympus XA is a rangefinder-coupled, aperture-priority camera with a sharp 35mm f/2.8 lens. Its compact design, combined with advanced features for its size, makes it a versatile choice for photographers on the go. Other models in the series, such as the XA2 and XA3, offer zone focusing and programmed auto exposure, making them easier to use but with less control. The XA4, with its 28mm f/3.5 macro lens, provides a wider field of view and close focusing capabilities, adding to the series’ versatility.
Best Compact 35mm Camera: Rollei 35S
The Rollei 35S is a compact, well-engineered camera that offers a superb shooting experience for those who appreciate precision and quality. Introduced in 1966, the Rollei 35 series became known for its high-quality construction and excellent lenses. The 35S model features a Zeiss-designed 40mm f/2.8 Sonnar lens, renowned for its sharpness and contrast. Despite its small size, the Rollei 35S is a fully manual camera, requiring the photographer to set both aperture and shutter speed, which can be challenging but rewarding for those who enjoy hands-on photography.
Best Compact 35mm Camera: Konica Hexar AF or Nikon 28/35Ti
For those willing to invest in a premium compact camera, the Konica Hexar AF and Nikon 28/35Ti are top contenders. The Konica Hexar AF is often lauded for its exceptionally quiet operation and superb 35mm f/2 lens. It’s larger than most compact cameras, but its near-silent shutter and autofocus system make it ideal for candid photography. The Nikon 28/35Ti series, available with either a 28mm or 35mm lens, offers exceptional image quality and unique top-mounted dials that display essential settings. Both cameras provide excellent build quality and image performance, making them favorites among enthusiasts.
The Best 35mm Film Rangefinder Cameras
Best Ultra-Bargain Rangefinder Camera: Canon P / Canon 7
The Canon P and Canon 7 are excellent choices for those entering the world of rangefinder photography without spending a fortune. These cameras were part of Canon’s response to Leica’s dominance in the rangefinder market and offered a more affordable alternative with solid build quality and reliable performance. The Canon P, in particular, is known for its straightforward design and compatibility with a wide range of lenses thanks to its Leica screw mount. The Canon 7 adds features such as a built-in light meter and a larger, brighter viewfinder, making it a great option for those who want a bit more sophistication in their rangefinder experience.
Best Bargain Rangefinder Camera: Contax G1
The Contax G1 is a standout among rangefinder cameras, offering autofocus capabilities along with the high-quality lenses that Contax is known for. It’s a more modern option compared to many other rangefinders and provides a unique combination of classic rangefinder-style with the convenience of autofocus. The G1 is compatible with a range of Carl Zeiss lenses, renowned for their sharpness and build quality, making it a compelling option for photographers looking for a balance between tradition and modern technology.
Best Mid-Range Rangefinder Camera: Minolta CLE
The Minolta CLE is a highly regarded rangefinder camera that offers an excellent balance of size, performance, and lens quality. Developed in collaboration with Leica, the CLE is compatible with Leica M-mount lenses, giving users access to some of the best optics available. The CLE is compact, making it ideal for travel and street photography, and it features aperture-priority auto-exposure, which simplifies shooting in changing light conditions. Its viewfinder is bright and clear, with frame lines that automatically adjust for 28mm, 40mm, and 90mm lenses.
Best Premium Rangefinder Camera: Leica M4-2 or M4-P
No discussion of rangefinders would be complete without mentioning Leica. The Leica M4-2 and M4-P are classic models that represent the pinnacle of mechanical camera design. The M4-2 was the first Leica M camera to be manufactured in Canada, and it introduced some cost-saving measures that made it more affordable while retaining Leica’s renowned build quality. The M4-P added frame lines for 28mm and 75mm lenses, making it more versatile. Both cameras offer the precise manual focus and unmatched build quality that Leica is known for, making them desirable for serious photographers who want the very best in a film rangefinder.
Best Compact 35mm Camera | Conclusion
The world of 35mm film cameras is rich with options, whether you’re seeking an entry-level SLR, a pocket-sized compact, or a premium rangefinder. Each camera on this list has earned its place through a combination of quality, reliability, and the unique characteristics that make film photography so appealing. Whether you’re just starting or looking to add to your collection, there’s a 35mm film camera out there that will suit your needs and help you capture beautiful images for years to come.
