Welcome to ANALOGORAMA!
This newsletter is a hub for all things film photography. Every week we’ll provide resources, stories, and profiles that educate and inspire film-loving individuals just like you!
For this week’s newsletter, we’ll be taking a look at some of the greatest and most iconic film cameras that you can still buy today!
1. Canon AE-1
The Canon AE-1 has stood the test of time. While the camera was put out of production in the mid-80s, the Canon AE-1 continues to be revered highly in the film photography world. Praised for its lightweight, the Canon AE-1 is great for outdoor shooting or photography on the go. The body is made up of both metal and plastic, so it proves to be durable as well.
I love the AE-1 because it was one of my first cameras! Though, it may not be the perfect choice for someone with little film camera experience. According to expertphotography.com, “this camera is perfect for an intermediate photographer with enthusiasm for 35mm.” The manual settings are minimal, allowing for a photographer to really be intentional with their shots. For some that is a plus, though for others the idea of having to manually control all the settings is a nightmare! However, the AE-1 is a durable, lightweight camera with the ability to capture beautiful shots.
2. Olympus OM-1
This camera has garnered a cult status amongst the photo community. The OM-1 is praised for its lightweight body, precise lens, and simplicity, dubbed by casualphotophile.com as “compact, purposeful, slim, and sexy.” However, it is this same simplicity that can steer people away from this camera. There is a light meter but there is no automatic exposure, forcing the photographer to be extra conscious of the aperture and shutter settings. Despite the slim-down nature of the camera, this machine is a great pick for someone who knows their way around a film camera already and is looking for a sleek, lightweight traveling camera.
3. Yashica FX-3
I love the Yashica FX-3. This was another camera I was gifted early on in my film photography practice and I have yet to put it down since. The camera is an extremely lightweight SLR, weighing in at around 1 pound. The FX-3 is also a very “durable and dependable design,” according to shootfilmco.com, and is so trustworthy because of “its dead-simple all mechanical design.”
I love this camera, particularly because of how easy it is to use and the beautiful shots that result! The focus is incredibly sharp, making this one of the best cameras for portraiture in my opinion. The black and white shots are always impeccable with this camera.