Film photography is back, and Japanese cameras from the 1970s–90s are some of the most reliable ways to start. This guide covers what to choose and what to check.
Mechanical or electronic?
- Mechanical cameras (e.g. Nikon FM2, Olympus OM-1, Pentax K1000) — the shutter works without a battery; the battery only powers the light meter. Very durable and easy to repair.
- Electronic cameras (e.g. Canon AE-1, Nikon FE, most autofocus SLRs and compacts) — offer auto exposure but need a working battery for the shutter.
35mm or medium format?
35mm film is cheaper and the cameras are compact. Medium format (120 film) gives larger negatives and very high image quality — see our Mamiya & Medium Format collection.
What to check on a used film camera
- Shutter speeds — should sound different at fast and slow speeds and fire every time.
- Light meter — responds to light changes.
- Light seals — foam seals can age; replacing them is simple and inexpensive.
- Viewfinder and lens — free of fungus and heavy haze.
- Battery type — common types are LR44/SR44 and CR2. Some older cameras were designed for mercury cells that are no longer sold; adapters or modern equivalents are available.
We test shutter, meter and optics on every film camera and write the results in the description. Browse film cameras or start with items under $100.
All items are covered by our 14-day money-back guarantee. See how we test in How We Inspect and Grade Used Cameras.