Are you interested in film photography? It can be overwhelming trying to find the right camera as a beginner, but this article focuses on the best film cameras for beginners, highlighting their features, settings, light meters, and lenses which will help you make the best decision.
Despite the misconception among so many saying that film photography is dead, there are still companies that specialize in making film cameras. You can convert the images these cameras produce in as many ways as you wish with modern production techniques and software.
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7+ Best Film Cameras For Beginners in 2022
- CANON AE-1 — The best film camera for beginners overall (Editor’s Choice)
- NIKON FE2 — The best value film camera for a beginner
- Olympus OM 1 — The best budget film camera
- Leica 10371 M-A — The best camera to improve your skills
- Nikon FM — The most compatible film camera
- Lomography Sprocket Rocket — The best camera for students and beginners
- Nikon F6 — The best professional SLR film camera
What is the Best Film Camera For Beginners?
CANON AE-1 is the best overall film camera for beginners and for those who want to learn manual shooting. For more options have a look at the Amazon table below.
If you are interested have a look at the Best Cameras for Live Streaming, Best Underwater Cameras, Best Cameras for Filmmaking and Documentaries and Best Cameras for Blogging.
Tips to Choose the Best Film Camera for a Beginner
Differentiating between many models of film cameras feels difficult and confusing if you don’t know what your needs are. Most of them are very similar in the way and perform the same function and deliver the same results, so it depends on what manner of pictures you want to take.
When you start shooting a film, you may have many questions. There are a few things to keep in mind while choosing the best film camera.
Built-in Light Meter
As a beginner, it is difficult to learn to shoot a film in the correct way, and you will not always have a handy display screen to use to keep checking your work in between shots, so picking cameras with a built-in light meter will save your time and the money on potentially wasted film.
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It is always best to avoid the Selenium light meters when you are a beginner as they have plenty of controls and scenarios where they may confuse beginners. These are the small strips that look like blank solar screens running across or around the lens. It is also difficult to replace these light meters, so it is best to have a battery-operated light meter when it dies so you can replace it.
Type of Film to Use
If you are entering photography as a career and looking for the best film cameras, it is essential to know which type of film to use. There are many types of films, such as 35mm, 110 mm, and 120 mm.
The standard type is 35mm which is available in canisters and produces rectangular photos. This is become the standard type and is readily available everywhere.
On the other hand, 120 are larger and they produce detailed images and 110m is used in pocket cameras. However, it depends on the person to choose the type of film they want depending on the type of the pictures they require.
Easy to Repair if Damaged
When you buy a camera, you must make sure that you choose a common model that is easy to repair when it gets damaged. Maintenance is difficult on older models because they are expensive to repair and maintain.
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It is best to choose s common and renowned brand because they are readily available and can help you enjoy your photography without the problems of lack of parts or repair tools.
Fully Manual Function
If you are learning photography, it is always good to learn manual operation. Learning manual operation means nothing is automatic, so you must place every setting correctly to balance your shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to achieve proper exposure.
Some of the cameras have an “M” on the dial, which indicates manual functioning and some have an “A,” which indicates automatic functioning and displaying shutter speeds. It is always easy to have an automatic setting to make operation simple, but to improve your skills, it is always good to learn from a manual function.
Once you understand the process, you will see better results in your digital photos as well. These skills are a huge advantage professionally, which is why forcing yourself to shoot in manual function is the best way to acquire them.
Type of Photos to Shoot
In this digital even though there are many options available it is understood that each and every camera has a unique feature in it. It again depends on the film photographers to choose the best one for their requirements.
It is necessary to have a look at the features and accessories of every model before buying one because they might shoot better outdoors, indoors, underwater, or still shots, so it is always important to determine which type of camera will suit you best.
Top 9 Best Film Cameras for Beginners
1. CANON AE-1 (Editor’s Choice)
The best film camera for a beginner
The Canon AE-1 or AE-1 Program (the programmable and refined version) is the best overall film camera for beginners due to its reliable functionality and inexpensive price tag. CANON AE-1 is a Single-Lens-Reflex camera with automatic exposure and a focal plane shutter that accepts interchangeable lenses.
This camera includes an internal light meter for those wanting to shoot in manual function. It also consists of a switch to automatic function and a wide selection of lenses. This AE-1 works without compatibility issues with 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. It is also compatible with Canon Breech-Lock mount, Canon FD, FL, and R lenses.
It features a viewfinder that is fixed at eye-level pentaprism to cover 93.5% field of view vertically and up to 96% horizontally. It comes with an aperture scale with a meter needle for viewfinder information and a stopped-down meter that shows the battery charge levels.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕It can be operated both manually as well as automatically. | ➖Expensive. |
| ➕It is the best choice for beginners. | ➖Repair may be difficult |
| ➕Lightweight and easy to handle. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 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.
2. NIKON FE2
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The best value film camera for beginners
NIKON FE2 is one of the best cameras for beginners due to its value and versatility. NIKON FE2 single-lens reflex has a focal-plane shutter that offers a speed range of 8 to 1/4000th second in bright light conditions, plus a Bulb and flashes X-sync of 1/250th second.
This compact and lightweight camera looks rugged and is built with copper-aluminum alloy. It stands as a viable option for travelers due to its portability, and durability. It comes with a manual-focus SLR for manual exposure control and electro-mechanically controlled aperture priority for auto-exposure.
It also features a brighter viewing screen and electronic flash automation. Its improved electronic control with eight honeycomb-patterned blades reduces the shutter speed to 3.3milliseconds from 3.6milliseconds.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕It offers high flash sync speed. | ➖It does not work as well in dark mode. |
| ➕It has a maximum shutter speed. | |
| ➕Lightweight. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Nikon FE2 SLR film camera with chrome body only.
- There are no other accessories or lens included.
3. Olympus OM 1
The best budget camera
Olympus OM 1 is the best budget-friendly for the features it possesses. This is also one of the smallest and lightest 35mm single-lens reflex cameras. It shoots eight images with 1/2 pixel offsets per shot to boost its resolution to 80MP.
This is a perfect choice for beginners because it isn’t expensive. It also has more advanced settings that you can work up to as you learn more about the camera. This camera contains an air dampener to absorb the shock of mirror movement.
The camera has a faster sensor and processor which allows it to shoot blackout-free at up to 50 frames per second with full autofocus and auto exposure. It also has noise cancellation and shock absorption while shutter operation. It is durable and capable of withstanding 100,000 shutter operations.
The production of Olympus OM 1 includes rust prevention technology for the steel materials used to reduce weight. It also passes through pentaprism processing technology, heat treatment, and surface processing technologies to maximize durability.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕It is easy to use. | ➖It is not durable and might get damaged soon if proper care is not taken. |
| ➕It is fully manual. | |
| ➕It is a great option for students and hobbyists. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Manual 35mm SLR
- Compact and Well-made
- Great Camera for Students and Hobbyists
- Chrome and Black
- 50mm f1.8 with Great optics
4. Leica 10371 M-A
The best camera to improve skills
If you are looking for the best SLR camera with modern precision, the Leica 10371 M-A is a great choice. This camera has special features by utilizing modern precision production and optical engineering. It gives a vintage feel reminiscent of analog photography.
The Leica M-A 35mm film rangefinder camera is famous for its simplicity, is completely a mechanical camera, and requires no battery for operation. This mechanical exposure control offers a shutter speed of up to 1/1000 sec. By using a rear ISO dial, you can determine the film speed.
It aims to fulfill the requirements of the novice photographer, but anyone with a basic knowledge of photography can also make incredible film photos with this camera. With its large, bright 0.72x viewfinder and precise rangefinder mechanism, it is capable of manual focusing with M-mount lenses and parallax-corrected compositional framing.
Its sleek design features silver-colored chromed brass top and bottom covers, and an all-metal body design, to offer durability.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕It is a full-fledged film SLR camera. | ➖Need to have basic knowledge before starting with this camera. |
| ➕It has versatile manual control. | ➖Expensive |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 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
5. Nikon FM
The most compatible film camera
Are you looking for a camera with the look that gives the best experience? Nikon FM film-based, manual SLR camera that uses 35mm film is the best camera with a vintage look. It is also an affordable film camera for beginners but comes with enough settings for manual function.
features possess you to learn and grow your confidence in photography. It also comes with metering systems that are accurate and versatile. It is also compatible with other digital lenses of the Nikon family helping for excellent exposure while taking pictures. The lens that is unable is all NIKKOR AF-D, AI-P, AF-I, AI-S, and AF-S lenses.
Since this is a manual camera, you’ll need to manually focus the lens when using an automatic focusing lens with it.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕It is fully mechanical. | ➖As it is fully mechanical, it creates noise. |
| ➕Compatible with any digital lens. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- In this kit, the FM10 body is fitted with Nikon's 35 millimeter to 70 millimeter lens
- Full manual control
- Selectable shutter speeds up to 1/2000th of 1 second
- Depth of field Preview; 'B' Setting
6. Lomography Sprocket Rocket
The best film camera for students and beginners
The Lomography Sprocket Rocket is a fantastic and inexpensive camera that is the best choice for students and beginners. This is also the world’s first panoramic wide-angle camera that holds a retro look and has a unique way of capturing pictures using retro sprocket shots.
It includes two apertures to choose from depending on the climate and time like Cloudy f/10.8 and Sunny f/16. It also allows you to click photos with a minimum focus distance which is as short as just 60cm. This camera features double the width of a normal 35mm frame which allows you to take a max of 12 on a 24-exposure roll and 18 on a 36-exposure roll.
No matter if you are capturing a wide photograph or an enormous vista with an aspect ratio of 1:3 and a wide angle, this camera still provides a 106-degree field view and allows you to shoot multiple exposures and blend images together to make a long frame on a 35mm reel.
It does not require any battery for operating. It is lightweight in its construction and weighs just 227g (0.5 lbs). It also includes a tripod mount at the bottom which helps for taking long exposure shots and features film advance and rewinds knobs to use in conjunction with the white dot window.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕It provides retro sprocket shots. | ➖It is constructed with plastic. |
| ➕Easy to use. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- super-wide angle lens for panoramas
- 35mm compact camera
7. Nikon F6
The best professional SLR camera
If you are looking for a highly specialized SLFR, then there is the Nikon F6. This camera is an integral motor autofocus SLR camera that comes with an electronically controlled focal-plane shutter which provides for instantaneous exposures.
This camera’s design features auto-programmed exposure modes. This can also function as aperture priority and manual modes and comes with fixed eye-level pentaprism which plays a special role in SLR cameras. The autofocus system includes Multi-cam 2000 Autofocus (AF) Sensor Module for high speed and precise functioning.
It is compatible with all AF-D, AF-G, AF-I, AF-S, and AF VR NIKKOR lenses which provide full AF and metering operation. It allows shooting in different modes such as Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, and manual mode. It also allows for exposure compensation which is auto Exposure.
The design features an optional multi-power battery pack that is an AA battery holder and a built-in battery backup for seamless work and works silently at approximately 1 fps.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕It is featured to have autofocus. | ➖It is heavy to hold and does not have a proper grip. |
| ➕Fixed eye-level pentaprism. | |
| ➕Multipower battery pack. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 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...
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a film camera better than a digital camera?
Photographs taken with a film camera have a higher resolution than those taken on digital cameras. While you can push or pull the analog film several stops based on the need, it affects the amount of contrast within the image.
What does 35mm film mean?
A 35mm format, or a 35mm, is a common type of image sensor format in most film photography. A film that is larger usually has a higher resolution and smaller formats like 35mm will be grainier when you print them, but they are still popular.
How many pictures can a 35mm film hold?
On each 35mm film, you can usually take 36 photos.
What do exposures in the film mean?
Camera exposure means the overall brightness or darkness of the picture. It is the amount of light that reaches the film or camera sensor while taking the picture. The more exposure to the film or the sensor of the camera, the lighter your photograph is.
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Best Film Cameras for Beginners Summary
In this predominantly growing digital camera market, finding the best and most suitable camera for your requirements is difficult. However, this list of the best film cameras will help you kick-start your career or hobby.
This article also includes tips that you need to remember while you choose the right camera. It’s a smart decision to invest in the right to not regret it later. We hope our list helped you find the one best for you. If so, let us know in the comments…
Good luck!