Film Cameras to buy in 2024

For anyone that has been shooting either a point and shoot or single use camera for the past year or two, here are some camera system recommendation to investing in to give you higher quality images and more creative control.
This is all coming from someone who has worked in photographic retail for a minute and knows what's up. These are cameras I am happy to sell newbies to film as I can trust them to perform well and bring joy to those using them.
If you've got your own recommendations for new comers to film photography please feel free to leave them in the comments.
As you may be able to tell from the crappy background removal, all of the cameras shown in this video are ones that have passed through my hands as I photograph them for work...
If you have any questions please leave them in the comments and i will get back to you with an answer.
Gear Used (affiliate):
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My Photography:
www.maxlamdin.com
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Thanks for watching

[@jaxmanf]

Started on Minolta, I just can’t find a compelling reason to ever try another system. I have absolutely no complaints with the lenses, and I’ve loved shooting with the X700 and a few members of the SRT series.

[@MaxLamdin]

they are such lovely cameras and the lenses really are underrated

[@semperfi-1918]

I am into pentax. To each their own taste. Along as it gets the results your looking for. Amd for me I'm using a pentax K-50. With older lenses from the 80's.

[@filibertkraxner305]

Nice recommendations! I would also suggest Mamiya C220/330 camera's (6x6 TLR's). These are much heavier than their Rolleiflex or Yashica alternatives, but very sturdily made. If you can find one, the underrated Contax Aria is a relatively modern 35mm camera that offers everything except autofocus. I still have one: works fine and accepts fantastic lenses.

[@MaxLamdin]

i've had a similar discussion with someone else about the Mamiya TLR range, really lovely cameras but can be a bit unwieldy. Contax aria also a really lovely camera and have always wanted to try one for myself but the prices of the lenses is crazy nowadays

[@filibertkraxner305]

@@MaxLamdin Agreed on those CZ lense prices, but there are still some underrated non-hyped ones that are awesome: 50/1.7, 35/2.8, 28-85 and 80-200 zooms spring to mind. But don't tell anyone ;-)

[@MaxLamdin]

50/1.7 is a really underrated lens! plastic and cheap feeling build but really good optics, 80-200mm is always a lovely option and can go for a bargain! haven't had any experiences with the others you mentioned maybe i'll have to try and pick one up!

[@ranchupics3919]

I would add the Minolta XD-5/XD-7 to the list for recommendation. The XD-5 in particular is relatively affordable and as you mention, the Minolta lenses are fantastic. Loving the videos, hope to see more.

[@MaxLamdin]

they're both excellent recommendation and solid little cameras with amazing lenses available

[@ozbaz99]

A great video (as always). K mount cameras from Pentax and Ricoh can be robust. I purchased a Ricoh XR-1 in 1986, second hand, as a teenager. I chose Ricoh as this is what I had used in high school where we used only Ricoh manual SLRs. The shop owner pointed out that it did not have aperture priority - I had no idea what that was and he explained. I was perplexed and asked why would you need that when you had a match needle in the viewfinder.. it still works flawlessly to this day and even the old battery is still going.

[@MaxLamdin]

you're right! some of the Ricoh SLRs are solid little cameras and are a good alternative to something like the ME super if you have a collection of K-mount lenses

[@michaelcase8574]

It's important to find a camera that has a large selection of first quality lenses. It is the lens that is the most important choice for the best photos. As you progress, you will want to get an external light meter and learn how to use it.

[@MaxLamdin]

true good lens investment is very important, however from my experience people buying into a system will buy in for a body initially and then discover available lenses afterwards

[@tomscameras]

Nice sum-up of great analog cameras! BTW the OM-1n also uses the 1.35V 625 battery that is now not available anymore. Only the OM-2 and later switched to the 2x LR44 (better use 2x SR44 or an equivalent 3V block). Also you have to watch out for damaged prisms on OM-1 / OM-1n and OM-2 / OM-2n bodies, but apart from that they're awesome!

[@MaxLamdin]

i've seen a few with the desilvered prism, hard to keep track of all these different batteries😅

[@Klpinfl]

Just wanted to mention that regarding Nikkormat, the FT and FTn use a mercury battery and the FT2 and FT3 use the modern SR44.

[@MaxLamdin]

yes! that is always useful to bare in mind, the alkaline 1.5v PX625 batteries can be used in the FT and FTn just fine though

[@GWD-photography]

I’m sorry I can’t remember the name at the moment but had my FTn restored a few years ago at a place in New England and they converted the meter to work with a modern battery. The entire restoration w/battery conversion was about $200. I spent that much on this camera because it was my first camera purchase at the age of 17 in 1972 . I paid about $600 for the camera and two lenses - A Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 and a Nikkor 135mm f/2.8. They all still work, even before the restoration.

[@Klpinfl]

@@GWD-photography Good to know there’s someone out there that still does that kind of repair. I was fortunate enough to buy a couple NOS light meters for the FT and FTn a while back. The battery adapters that reduce the voltage to 1.35v work fine.

[@andrewrothman7805]

Great video. The Pentax Spotmatic range will work fine with an SR44 1.5v battery. They have a bridge circuit built in which automatically reduces the voltage to 1.35v. Same with the Canon EF.

[@MaxLamdin]

Thanks for that, didn't know that about the Canon EF! I know the spotmatics which take the PX625 were all good with the SR44, any recommendation for those with the VX400(I think that's what it was called)?

[@andrewrothman7805]

I'd also recommend the Minolta XD line, and specifically the XD-7/11/S. This is basically a Leica R3 for a lot less money. I have the XD-S version (Japan market version), and it's fantastic, with great lenses. This was the last all-metal line, just before the X-700 type.

[@MaxLamdin]

Yeah that's an excellent recommendation, I've seen people get really good results with those cameras mainly I think because the lenses are so good

[@AlexandruMusetoiu]

good recommendations and glad to hear about the yashica :) i personally started with yashica fx3, i think it would be a pretty strong choice as well considering the low price, portability and the amount of lenses available :D

[@MaxLamdin]

the Yashica SLRs are good cameras if you get a good one, they are prone to battery drains and can have some weird faults with the meters but the lenses really are a good option, similar to the Fujica cameras in a lot of ways

I started with a Minolta X-700 with 50mm f1,4 and 28mm f2,8, great Minolta lenses. The 6x6 Mamiya C22 is in the mail and i can't wait for it to come, although it was not in your list 😄

[@MaxLamdin]

the X-700 is an excellent camera, it definitely deserves more recognition! the mamiya TLR's nearly made it onto my list but the size/weight and additional features make it better suited to someone that's spent a bit of time already shooting with other film cameras

[@MaxLamdin]

i'm sure you'll really enjoy the C22 they're so much fun to shoot with

[@scrptwic]

I recently refurbished my Spotmatic SP2 it needed new light seals and a mirror bumper I got the supplies at Walmart for a few dollars. I had let the camera sit for a couple of years until somebody gave me a roll film and that's when I found out I had bad light seals . I bought the camera because it came in a kit with a 35mm3.5, 50mm1.4 & A 135mm3.5 Takumar lenses with original lens hoods , filters , extension tubes , 2x teleconverter all for $ 100.00 it was to good of a deal for me to pass up

[@MaxLamdin]

that is a good selection of lenses you got there, the 35mm and 50mm are particularly nice and make it a good deal all round

[@robertoposa1120]

What about the Nikon F3 build like a tank and great looking - I use it now almost 40 yrs (I am 72 ) and can pass it on to my grandchildten

[@MaxLamdin]

very true a lovely camera, the bleeding LCD is something that can be frustrating and i think the F2 is often a safer bet for long term reliability

[@neilpiper9889]

When I was young I used 35mm. Then I started my apprenticeship and realised that medium and large format produced much higher quality results.

[@MaxLamdin]

there is a discernible improvement, that's the main reason why i'm pretty much exclusively shooting medium format

[@f1remandg]

Very good and wouldn’t argue with your recommendation’s, the mercury batteries can be overcome with a rubber adapter with a button battery of the right v and if its not exact there is now charts that give you a adjustment factor, also worth mentioning and its not covered a lot, is curtain failure, due to deteriorating material like light seals, I have a few Sa1s and Ha1s that range and Spotmatics and the curtains have become an issue on about four there isn’t much out there on the replacing front. Parts, I find aren’t often an issue, apart from shutter levers and associated externals, the internals rarely break. Good and simple advice Its good to see a younger individual going into this genre, i think it will continue to grow as vinyl, its tactile, with outside interest. Watch for the following photo.

[@MaxLamdin]

thank you for the added input. I've seen more and more cameras also suffering from curtain failure and recently tested an Rolleiflex SL35 with issues at 1/1000th. The advantage vinyl has these days is that they deteriorate at a much slower rate and are easily produced again. I'm hoping manufacturers see this uptick in interest and look at making more sophisticated film cameras again.

[@colinclark3218]

I'm surprised that you didn't mention the Pentax 645. OK, so it doesn't have interchangeable backs, but it is an excellent camera with a good range of lenses. They are also very good value for the money.

[@MaxLamdin]

Again, they're reliable cameras if you get a good working one. The original P645 has issues with its squishy buttons and LCD screen bleeds and the 645N is more reliable but isn't completely without flaw

[@colinclark3218]

@@MaxLamdin I have a good working one - and I love it. No squishy buttons and no bleeding on the LCD screen. I also have several lenses, which are all excellent. I guess I've been just plain lucky.

[@MaxLamdin]

The lenses are good, I personally have always preferred the characteristics of the Mamiya lenses but that just comes down to personal preference. Hope it keeps going strong for you!

[@colinclark3218]

@@MaxLamdin Thanks. I have my fingers crossed.

[@f1remandg]

Cant seem to add a photo, but i collect cameras and lenses and have all the 35mm models you spoke of, plus many others, including the folding and even a couple box, take a look at Martin Henson and Shoot Like a Boss on KZbin both very good, also Simon’s Utak on lenses particularly pentax, plus Rob Trek on everything Olympus/OM M 4/3 Pal2tech on Fuji and lastly Photography online that is a group of photographers in uk who present a monthly show and covers everything photographic. Good Luck! Regards David

[@MaxLamdin]

Some I know and some I don't so looks like I've got some research to get on with. Thanks David

[@SomeUnremarkableGuy]

you mentioned mostly manual focusing cameras. for anyone starting with the film photography, I always suggest to start with first AF body, and later on move on manual focus. the problem with the manual focus is definitely at the beginning at least, there will be photos that are out of focus + it's harder to focus manually. I'd recommend to look at Maxxum 5 (although I don't own it). I never heard about issues on this cameras, plus lot's of A mount lenses either from Minolta and later on from Sony.

[@MaxLamdin]

they are worth considering however the Dynax/Maxxum range do have some faults most notably bleeding to the LCD screens but they can be a good option now that Sony has stopped supporting A-mount

[@ShutterKnack]

For the Pentax system (which is the only mount that is alive to this day), I highly recommend the K-series, especially the KX as it is the top of line mechanical camera of the series, meaning full readout in the viewfinder including aperture and shutter speed, match needle, MLU, DoF preview, etc.. and its as reliable as the K1000. Also worth mentioning is the K2 DMD which has a reiable hybrid shutter (mechanical for faster shutter speeds) and a full viewfinder readout. KM which is a step up from the K1000. Of course, K1000 is also good but in my opinion, massively overhyped. Then, there's the MX which is the smallest fully mechanical SLR in the world which is not as reliable as the K-series but still quiet high up there. The problem with the MX is there's a ton out there that's bashed and battered or just purely used and not maintained so best to find one in great condition and pay the premium. I know, Max, you are not a fan of the ME and ME super which is fair enough as Pentax has used mirror foam that degrades and turns to goo. It just so happens that it is placed just above the shutter mechanism which then makes it stick. The worst part is one will have to open the camera up to access this even if the fix is just to clean it up. If one is looking for automatic metering, then I highly recommend the Super A / Program which is the newer version of the ME Super which does not have this problem. I also recommend the MV1 which is full auto only BUT instead of using foam, Pentax started using a different material that does not degrade like the foam does so even if the MV1 is supposedly the cheaper version of the ME Super, it is more reliable. One of the best things about using Pentax is the backwards and forwards compatibility. One can shoot with a modern lens on a film body and vice versa which is the almost same as Nikon F but Pentax's backwards compatibility is a few steps ahead. One can also adapt M42 lenses easily with a Pentax-M42 adapter which you cannot do with Nikon F. Something that is completely out of the radar of most people are the Miranda cameras from the 60s and 70s (not the crappy new ones before they got sold to Dixons). Miranda only made camera bodies and they were pretty good at it. Not only they were quite expensive but also very well built. In 1974, Miranda made the Miranda TM which has an M42 mount which gives Miranda users access to M42 lenses. Not only it is one of the most beautiful cameras ever made, it is also fully mechanical and has interchangeable viewfinders. Because they are not well known in the mainstream, they are also still pretty cheap. Obviously, I am a sucker for mechanical cameras so happy to learn if there are good finds still to be had out there like Miranda cameras.

[@MaxLamdin]

Totally understand what you're saying about the KX it is a solid option and K-mount in general is great. However as you mentioned a lot of these models are often heavily used and that can cause issues with them, most often batteries which have been left in them for decades. The miranda cameras are criminally underrated especially if you can find some decent lenses to use on them

[@philtaylor194]

What about the Canon F1 and T90?

[@MaxLamdin]

the later version of the F1 is a lovely camera but not one i'd recommend for anyone looking to start film photography. As for the T90 you might as well pick up an EOS 1000 or 600 series, yes the build quality of the T90 will be better but it'll be just as reliable

[@SchwarzPoet]

In any case, you have forgotten a robust, reliable, but also affordable camera brand that offers everything from beginners to professionals. So what about the Praktica cameras from the former GDR? And if I look at the argument against the Nikon F series, Praktica also offers an affordable alternative with interchangeable viewfinders on a par with the Nikon F2 and Nikon F3. The Praktica VLC, the Praktica VLC2 and the Praktica VLC3 are available with all accessories (prism viewfinder, waist-level viewfinder and magnifying finder, special clip-on flash shoe, adjustable telescope for the prism viewfinder, original Praktica camera strap) and one or two lenses in total for 200 - 350€, fully functional and for that you might get a Nikon F2 without lens and the prism viewfinder and if you're lucky, even a lens is included. As I said, the Praktica VLC models are fully equipped. And I deliberately chose the cheapest comparison brand with Nikon and the Nikon F2, as the Canon F-1 series or the Pentax LX would be even more expensive and out of reach for students, whereas with Praktica even the professional model would be within reach for them if you don't need the full equipment with all interchangeable viewfinders 😉 Just take a look, especially at the third Praktica generation, also known as the Praktica L series, which also includes the Praktica VLC cameras. There are also a number of more beginner-friendly cameras to discover, some of which you can get with a lens for as little as €15 - €30 😉 Greetings from Germany wishes Lutz Addendum: In the second video you described the Zenit and the Praktica as Russian cameras and briefly mentioned them. The Praktica are definitely not Russian cameras but East German cameras from the former GDR. You can't throw that into one pot in terms of quality. This may be the case with the Praktica cameras that were produced at the end of the 1980s shortly before the fall of the Berlin Wall and shortly afterwards, i.e. all Praktica MTL models should be treated with caution. However, this only applies to the Praktica cameras that were produced so late. Everything that was produced up to around the mid-1980s is perfectly fine as long as the previous owner handled it with care. If the previous owner didn't handle it with care, any camera can end up being junk afterwards. 😁

[@MaxLamdin]

I'll have to look into that particular model, however I've been getting a very mixed bag in the comments when it comes to the USSR and GDR cameras, some saying they last forever, others saying they die very quickly which is why I generally don't recommend them for people looking to pick up their first SLR

[@SchwarzPoet]

@@MaxLamdin With cameras from the former GDR, especially Praktica, it really depends on the year of manufacture. In the years shortly before and after the fall of the Berlin Wall, state subsidies became less and less, which can also be seen in the quality of the cameras. If you pay attention to this, or mention it, it is no problem to recommend them for beginners.

[@xTheTamingx]

I've only been into photography for the last 2 to 3 years? And I always look up digital cameras but never film cameras. I just won an auction with four film cameras and an older Polaroid. All of these recommended are older cameras. Do they just not make film cameras besides point and shoots anymore? Or are all the best ones, just old cameras?

[@MaxLamdin]

currently no companies make any fully mechanical cameras or any that offer much in the way of control, there are some companies currently in the process of developing new film cameras with more control but nothing currently on the market

[@jasongold6751]

If you already are using a Film camera, why add another? The Pentax Spotmatic is good. Usually no meter! Nikon-F, Leica M3 all old but great! Personally I am done with film. I will slowly finish my stock of film.. Digital a way better way!

[@MaxLamdin]

if you already have a so-called "lifer" camera then yes it's best to stick with it unless you're looking for something that system doesn't offer. I don't believe that one is fundamentally better than the other, just different i guess

[@michaelrasmussen3347]

I think you forgot Pentax mx and its more automatic sibling the me and me super and perhaps also the kx and the IMHO overrated k1000. This also opens up to a huge range of excellent lenses from the Pentax K mount system.

[@MaxLamdin]

you're right with the MX, Kx and K1000 but absolutely not the ME! unfortunately due to their age they're mostly riddled with problems or completely not functional, just not worth the hassle to get them repaired either

[@geezermaxamus]

What no Canon ?

[@MaxLamdin]

For beginners i'd generally say no, you'll find some in my "cameras i don't recommend" video. For beginners looking to learn the basics with a reliable camera i'd probably recommend the FTb but the later FD cameras are prone to faults and aren't great for learning basic exposure on

[@geezermaxamus]

@@MaxLamdin Well as for myself and my FTB and F1n we think you are wrong.

[@MaxLamdin]

don't get me wrong, the F1n is an amazing camera! but this video was meant to be a buying guide for beginners and the F1n isn't exactly suitable for that in terms of price or features

[@northstar1950]

Sorry but Pentax Spotmatic cameras were never ever considered as 'entry level'

[@MaxLamdin]

you're right, when new they were marketed towards serious enthusiasts more than beginners, however now with their price point and simplicity they're great cameras for anyone looking to shoot film and learn the basics of exposure etc.

[@toasty3dcommunicationsinc.938]

What about Nikon F series?(F2, F3)

[@MaxLamdin]

amazing cameras but likely a bit advanced for people just moving up from disposable/point and shoot, also getting a cheaper body allows for more to be invested in lenses initially

[@Magnetron692]

Hi Max, many thanks! I'm very happy with the Minolta XD (XD-7 in Europe), have some minolta lenses, very high quality and affordable! Best wishes Ralf

[@MaxLamdin]

Love the XD range! there are so many solid systems it was had to narrow it down for this video but they are amazing and affordability is a big plus!

[@rolandoeduard]

How about pentax LX? Is it still worth to purchases on 2024

[@MaxLamdin]

I'd be very skeptical of the LX, although a very capable camera they are prone to some faults and again, can be VERY expensive to get repaired correctly

[@---us7qf]

Hahahaha! My Nikon Nikomat is lovely, solidly built and should last for 2 lifetimes. I have a very clean copy, and I shan't ever sell it.

[@MaxLamdin]

they really are such solid cameras

[@---us7qf]

@@MaxLamdin it's funny, I've only just taken delivery of the Nikon Zf. It is now coupled with the FTZ adapter and a Zeiss Planar T* classic 1.4/50mm lens. This setup, along with the lens hood feels a tad lighter than the Nikon Nikomat, with its 50mm lens. Hahahahaha! I got the Nikomat about 9 months ago now, and could not get over how well-built it was. My second film camera and the confidence it exudes, it sooo welcomed.

[@MaxLamdin]

very jealous of your Zf and i know that Zeiss lens it's a fantastic optic and will pair perfectly with the Zf👌🏼 The Nikkormat bodies are tanks it'll last you forever with a service every few years

[@---us7qf]

@@MaxLamdin thank you Max, on the compliment of the Zf. I not into a lot of the digital stuff, but I am being forced (slowly), to concede that it is the age for it. I needed something for video, webcam and the odd streaming, so I went with the Zf. I did some research and just wanted something that was built well and would be reliable. Of course it had to also "carry" the aesthetics I like: vintage retro Nikon.

[@TheManFrayBentos]

The Nikkormats weren't just designed for students, but as an entry-level camera to the Nikon system. First decent SLR I had was an FT2 and it shot thousands of Ektachromes on racing circuits the length and breadth of the country without a glitch. A total tank. I moved on to an OM-1 (and another, later) but never forgot that FT2. Couple of years ago I bought an FTn to go with a slack handful of Nikon glass I'd accumulated over the years. Another tank.

[@MaxLamdin]

you're absolutely right, I mention the student aspect as that's where they're most often seen nowadays as art departments will have a whole range of Nikkormat cameras for the reason you mentioned, they're built like tanks and students often don't take the best care of them😂

[@carpediem3593]

Max - Great video. I like how straight froward you are with the information. I am now a new Subscriber. I will recommend your channel to my friend and MIndfulness Photography Class. I am collecting a list of recommended film cameras and I really enjoy your information.... Thanks for sharing and keep the videos coming.

[@MaxLamdin]

thank you for the comment and glad you enjoyed the video☺️

[@speedandstyletony]

My first serious camera was a Nikomat FTn(Japanese market name instead of Nikkormat). I still have it and other than needing a new battery it still works. Great camera!

[@MaxLamdin]

lovely little cameras, never seen a Nikomat in the flesh but i knew they had a different name which is interesting, worth getting a battery for it

[@michaelhall859]

Curious why you dont recommend the Weincell mercury replacement batteries? I've been using them in a couple of old cameras and they seem to be ok ?

[@MaxLamdin]

they're okay to start with but being zinc oxide means once you pull the tab off they start reacting and can't be stopped and so they often die fairly quickly