My Favorite 35mm Film Camera of All Time

[@seandalt]

Am I wrong? What’s your favorite 35mm film camera 👇🏼

[@kiwipics]

My Canon EOS1, yes another all electronic brick.

[@FlowzenKing]

Yashica T3

[@jnicholls8146]

Olympus 35RC

[@faithinverity8523]

Canon Canonet QL17. It weighs nothing. It costs nothing. If is super-rugged. Everyone had one. Everyone took zillions of photos with them.

[@gabrieles2036]

Canon 7 my friend

[@Seapatico]

As a fellow Hexar RF lover and multiple time owner, one bit of advice for longevity is to apply some glue or loc-tite to the piece of glass that screws into the eyepiece. Mine fell out when I was in NYC last year, and it's been nearly impossible to find a replacement because this seems to happen to a lot of RF users. I'm even searching for as-is Hexars on ebay just to get the eyepiece, and I'm coming up empty. Love the review! It's a phenomenal camera, and I think it's the best M-mount camera ever made.

[@adamalthus]

Also my favorite 35mm rangefinder. Owned when it first came out. sold it and then picked one up again two months ago. It’s a premium photography tool that will deliver years of use.

[@seandalt]

Beautiful little camera. I hope my lasts so this gives me hope!

[@jnicholls8146]

For those on a budget that gets results 99% as good try the Olympus 35RC. Having owned film leicas and a hexar, the Olympus still is king of colour.

[@seandalt]

+1 for Olympus. I have an Olympus 35SP that was $200. Really fun little camera

[@tdhk5000]

I like what I’m hearing. I love my RC and RD. Now find me one with a 28mm lens? :(

[@prawnstar9213]

YAS!!!!! Really fun camera! Warm shots!

[@andrewcanton3539]

What do you mean by 'king of color'? With a film camera?

[@Dubtee]

My 35rc won't work on auto, and only let's the shutter fire on f22-11

[@daveleo7248]

Your video here inspired me to take my Konica Hexar AF out of retirement (about 20 years at this point). It is my favorite lifetime camera, but I sold out to digital when I bought the Leica Digilux-2 and never looked back. The Hexar seems to be working well with a new battery and fresh film. Time will tell once film is developed.

[@philipau3847]

I'm completely with you on having practical features on a 35mm camera (most importantly aperture priority). I have the Zeiss Ikon. One advantage of the Zeiss is that Zeiss still services/repairs those cameras. Turnaround time was ~1month for mine.

[@damianomelone2386]

another great video from you. I've been shooting with a Pentax ME Super for a year. I love the experience of analogue photography. Many greetings from the Black Forest in Germany😊

[@seandalt]

Hey Damian thanks for the love man. I haven’t tried out the Pentax ME Super but looks like an awesome little SLR

[@GloriaLiu.]

Congrats on hitting 100k, man! You deserve it!

[@seandalt]

Hey thank you Gloria :) you were the first one to notice here!

[@thedarkslide]

The Hexar RF is probably the best rangefinder body for people with glasses wanting to shoot 28mm and expect to see the frame lines and beyond. The viewfinder magnification is smaller than any Leica M body.

[@seandalt]

I’ve heard this as well, that’s a nice bonus!

[@finn4240]

Having owned both the RF (25 rolls shot) and the M7 (40 still going), They're definitely much alike! The RF is definitely more of a workhorse and extremely capable. Together with the hexar AF they introduced me to rangefinder photography. I can heavily recommend the RF! Think about this as followed, You're essentially buying the most advanced disposable camera ever. If the camera breaks, u better be sure to have used it to fill the heck out of your portfolio! if so its defiantly worth it

[@seandalt]

Exactly this. Id be keen to try out the AF as well. Looks like a fun little camera

[@PurosOipunx]

Dude… just randomly came across this video! I have a Hexar with a voitlander 40mm f1.2 and out of all my cameras it is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE camera to shoot with! I got such a good deal on mine that I couldn’t pass it up. The only issue I had was that the rangefinder was misaligned. Luckily I know a retired camera tech that still does work for people who know him, and $80 and a couple of weeks later I had a perfectly aligned rangefinder. Loved the video!

[@seandalt]

Right man?! Such a sick little camera. Gonna have to ask you to share that contact for the rangefinder alignment 😉 I’m sure I’ll need one eventually. Appreciate the love brother thank you 🙏🏼

[@Narsuitus]

I prefer battery independent manual/mechanical cameras. The Leica M6 35mm rangefinder with 21/35/90mm lenses is my second favorite. The Nikon F2 35mn SLR with non-metered prism and lenses that range from 14mm to 1000mm is my personal favorite.

[@thomasburrack8257]

Hi Sean. Congrats on joining the Konica Hexar RF user club. I personally own two of those one is the all titanium style limited release the other one is a black one like yours. I always enjoyed shoting film with a 'LEICA M7 clone' plus automated film advance. But there is something i need to share with you. The electronic shutter will die just one day to another with no reson or even abuse. Only a few retired KONICA repair men in the city of Tokyo have a limited stock in parts and the skills to fix this defect. So again enjoy as long as you can. Regards

[@Daydream2142]

13:19 nope. u don’t have to rely on Leica to get your m6 fixed. Countless repair shops in Japan/Korea/HK. Thats why ppl prefer mechanical cameras bc just like vintage watches, you can get them fixed by skilled repair person anywhere.

[@cwantuch]

I bought 2 of these because I do enjoy this camera a lot. Glad I am not the only one to discover these.

[@lone-iveroon3757]

Yeah a common issue is the Misaligned rangefinder, I had to fix it myself! But I enjoyed mine, it was simple and easy!

[@seandalt]

Hoping mine doesn’t become misaligned but I’m sure it will eventually haha. Thanks for the comment!

[@djtoman6875]

Nice video and well explained. I recognized the streets of Thailand immediately, and the scenery in the video reminded me a bit of my former life in another part of Asia. Hope you're learning the language if you're making it your home. I'm very happy with my Voigtlander Bessa R. It uses Leica thread mount (LTM) or L39 lenses, which are a lot more affordable than M mount lenses. I especially love the bright viewfinder, which is the best I've ever used. Build quality isn't up there with Leica or Konica, but it was affordable for me when I got it a few years ago.

[@Turquoi5eBlu]

I see one of the photos from lover's point in PG. I bought my hexar rf in Monterey for $20 but it's not working. I had it fixed in Santa Cruz. The guy fixed it and did CLA for a little bit over $300 and I am very much satisfied with it. The guy fixes even the electronics of a modern digital camera.

[@seandalt]

Ah no way, that’s awesome. Yeah I did some shooting out in PG, about an hour from where I grew up. Always one of my favorite places for photography. Do you remember the name of the place where you got it repaired? You got a deal!

[@turquoi5eblu401]

@@seandalt I just Googled it and it's Santa Cruz Camera Repair. He even has a website. His workplace is inside a mobile house. I thought I was lost when I was trying to find his address.

[@Guacamolefrito]

Happy to see ppl still giving love to Konica. If you get ur hands on a Konica Hexar AF u will get the closest u can to an analog fuji x100vi ;)! Great video!

[@seandalt]

It should get more imo! Have yet to try the AF but it looks cool. What did you think about the auto focus?

[@alexstenhouse_]

@@seandaltI love mine - AF is a bit slow and sometimes struggles to find the subject - so useless for street snaps - but it won’t let you take the photo until it finds focus and the end result is honestly such a joy, the lens is wonderful

[@lone-iveroon3757]

the most challenging thing is that its maximum shutter speed is 250, but otherwise great camera and lens!

[@bobselektor]

Why when it comes to RF cameras nobody considers the Minolta CLE or the Leica CL? I had my CLE for the past 2 years and it’s a gem of a camera, it’s an almost pocketable M7

[@seandalt]

I actually did look into this one as well and it was a top runner for me. I can’t remember why I didn’t go for it but it looks like an epic little camera!

[@MrAnticaArte]

The best rangefinder is the Minolta CLE

[@seandalt]

Epic camera!

[@mnoliberal7335]

I mostly shoot medium format but carry a point and shoot camera or 35mm RF. My Canon 35 has crossed the Kodachrome Bridge and a Hexar would be nice.,thinking

[@seandalt]

For sure, thanks for watching 🙏🏼

[@richardpcrowe]

My favorite 35mm film camera was the Nikon SP. I shot a lot with Leicas but, never liked them very much.

[@angloitalo]

I remember reading a story from that period that said Konica broughr that camera to Germany to show them. They were immediately shown the door.

[@jaegerschtulmann]

Try the sigma fp for photography paired with voigtlander lenses, you'll be floored by the colors and IQ (it's indeed another camera that flew under the radar for most as it was marketed for video )

[@seandalt]

I must admit I saw some videos about this camera but can’t remember a thing. I’ll definitely check it out! Always interested in cameras that aren’t all that popular

[@jaegerschtulmann]

@@seandalt yeah the camera flew under the radar as it was video centric and to some extent very quirky since it's designed as a modular body; however, it offers excellent stills capabilities and has a better jpeg engine than that of the Fujis (lots more options and granularity to control tone and get the colors you want)

[@aphscully4780]

fully electronic 35mm cameras are a luxury item but also a huge gamble, once it breaks (and it will) you're gonna be hard pressed to find someone who will fix it a decent price

[@seandalt]

Definitely a gamble. Decided to take my chances on this one

[@RS454]

If you want a really good rf camera that does not cost a lot give the Yashica Gsn or Gtn a try. The exposures are amazing while it is not on the level of this camera and does not offer interchangeable lenses it is a great starting point with a really good aperture priority system. A nice one usually goes for about 50 dollars. You do need to get the proper battery and adapter because the mercury batteries are no longer made. This was my first camera and is still my favorite.

[@Blackmind0]

I have the konica rf also, same size than the m6, 1/4000 is great and i use leica lenses.. 🙂

[@seandalt]

Epic camera hey? I’m keen to start collecting Leica lenses soon

[@hectoracevedo4545]

When it was released it was regarded as a true gem for the reasons you mention. I don't know why Konica pullied it so quickly

[@seandalt]

I guess things were going digital quite quickly around that time? Perhaps something like that

[@ChillingwithMalc]

Man. These shots came out soo great. 6:26 Pretty cool camera.

[@seandalt]

Thank you my man!

[@scottyg9167]

I’ve long felt (known) that Konica cameras weren’t grossly underrated. Forgot entirely about this camera but now, you’re reminding me of just great they are. I inherited a Konica Autoreflex T dons ago: amazing glass, almost bullet proof. But hey, Nikon literally gave away cameras to journalists in the 60s/70s to garner devotees. But I’d defy anyone to convince me the Konica was every bit as good. And thus the Hexar: awesome

[@zerixos]

You glanced over the fact that a Leica M6 also works without a battery. Not only makes it repairing it cheaper, (you dont have to salvage an other camera for electronics) but it also works when the battery dies. Sure you can bring more battery's with you (with an electronic camera you should) but the M6 is alsmost uses no battery power and you can do months (if not years) on just a single battery.

[@seandalt]

Definitely, but I don’t think it’s a worthwhile argument beyond the larger electronic vs. mechanical debate which has many factors included. The Konica battery lasts for 100 rolls so while that’s true, it’s hardly an issue. It does stand true though that if the camera breaks, it’s doneskies. Praying it doesn’t 😂

[@zerixos]

A analog camera from the early 00's should be good for many more years. 100 rolls is also a lot of frames but I would be anxious not having a spair one on me when I need it, but the CR2 batteries are small enough to have 2 spares in your bag anyway. May it serve you many great moments!

[@ezpoppy55]

What?!?! Ken Rockwell lied?!? 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@seandalt]

No way! 😂

[@lensman5762]

The best thing about Konica Hexar RF is the M Hexanon lenses which were designed to mimic Leica M Summicrons. Don't get me wrong they are great cameras, but sorry close but no cigar. It is closer to a Leica M7 than an M6 whihc is a differnt animal altogether. Nice photos though.

[@seandalt]

Would love to get my hands on some of those lenses! Especially the 28

[@lensman5762]

@@seandalt I have the 35, it's a fine lens. Don't know about the rest of them though.

[@TheWutangclan1995]

I have a G2 and my go to is my trusty Leica M6. As beautiful as the hexar looks, the lack of parts and or being unable to find a person to fix the camera put me off from getting one.

[@seandalt]

Yeah fair point! Doesn’t the G2 have the same issue? I was always really interested in one and it was at the top of my list for ages, but a few things swayed me towards the Konica. Would still love to pick one up at some point and I know I’ll get a Leica eventually as well haha

[@TheWutangclan1995]

@@seandalt well there is hope. Nippon in NY services G2 and select Contax cameras and It’s legit. I had mines repaired and CLAed from them a few years ago. I don’t know what the state of repairs for Contax cameras now because with how old a lot of these cameras are, so are the parts and it’ll only be a matter of time that there won’t be any left to the point all of our beloved electronic powered film cameras will inevitably become a brick.

[@seandalt]

@@TheWutangclan1995 everything good always has to come to end. Might as well enjoy them while we still can!

[@DessieTots]

As long as they’re your “go to” and “trusty” ffs.

[@beniciomoldenado2315]

Nice video and very nice camera. What kind of strap is that? It's very cool. Thanks again.

[@seandalt]

Thank you! Appreciate the comment :) I linked the strap in the description down below. It’s cheap and awesome

[@JesseForrest]

Another great video! Thanks Sean :-)

[@seandalt]

Appreciate the love Jesse!

[@joshuao.5587]

Wow…absolutely gorgeous photos! Really enjoyed them! Great video as well!!

[@JoeLopez]

Nice job on the video! Looks like a great camera but that price point and those electronics had many skidding I’m sure. Thanks for sharing

[@seandalt]

Appreciate the comment Joe! Totally understand why others are hesitant to jump on it. Praying it stands the test of time

[@photobobo]

I agree. The Hexar RF is far superior to anything made by Leica. Except for repair-ability. Mine is still going strong. I use a wide variety of M mount and screw mount lenses, with an adapter.

[@JokiW]

Beautiful photos! I would love to see more film photography videos :)

[@mariolopez.photographer]

Awesome video and beautiful camera!!! What 35mm film are you using in these example shots? Thanks

[@saturdays3984]

Hey bro, nice video, very informative! Btw, I like your white tshirt, where did you get them? :)

[@jasontormos3668]

Thanks for sharing! Been looking for a more affordable rangefinder for my Voigtlander lens's.

[@seandalt]

No worries Jason! I hope you can get your hands on one man

[@faiosung]

it was my best rangefinder. i sold that along with my m6 and leica cl. i only regretted the hexar

[@seandalt]

I’ve heard this from many people that used to own the camera. Might have to find yourself a new one :)

[@faiosung]

@@seandalt i am afraid to look at current prices 🙂

[@Alphageist]

Have you looked through the Zeiss Ikon ZM rangefinder?

[@seandalt]

Not yet, but I hear it’s pretty zesty. A bit afraid to 😂

[@mickeef31]

Hey Sean, thanks so much for this video, I’ve been researching a 35mm RF and the Konica looks great. Do you know how my Contax Zeiss Planar 50/1.4 and Distagon 28/2.8 would go with C/Y to M mount? I love my lenses on my X system but want to move to also shooting film. 🙏

[@tylerfukuda]

No other cam gunna scratch the Leica itch.. you will get your Leica :)

[@seandalt]

Wouldnt put it past me 😂

[@dstefanek1988]

I was looking into range finder this camera but it didn't fit on my budget zone instead I got the Canon P with the 50mm f 1.8 for 249usd plus shipping from Japan.

[@JaedoTae]

Question: do you think the viewfinder is suitable for glasses wearer like me? Thanks!

Hi! Yes, the viewfinder is well suited for glasses wearers - I can see the 35mm framelines without issues, something that's not quite possible on my M2/M6 (both 0.72x)

[@edmundsmierins5565]

My is argus c3. A real brick. 😂 Using more than 5 years now. Just love to shot with this camera.. Well calibrated takes amazing photos..For me the best erganomics (opposite opinion from other photographers about erganomics)

[@nero9978]

Ah yes the Hexar RF, a golden leaf in a forest of green trees.

[@seandalt]

Beautifully said!

[@quang5DCameras]

This camera looks pretty good but I'd rather Get a Mecanical rangefinder instead.

[@seandalt]

Totally fair! I understand the appeal

[@dlyon9673]

Your photos look great! Happy to read this review of the Hexar.

[@grainificent]

Great video and i never heard about this camera as well! My go to travel camera is a kodak m38 🤣 but i do have yashicas electro, leica m1 and a bunch of others ;p

[@mccafferty1234]

Is a canon ae-1 a good camera

[@failburgerz]

What film is this?

[@seandalt]

Portra 400!

[@shessudar]

Amazing photos😍

[@seandalt]

Thank you Mindy! ❤️

[@throughmyeyes9940]

but isn't the "Hexar" lens which really makes this camera, just asking, no flames

[@seandalt]

I don’t think so as the image quality between any 35mm rangefinder is exactly the same, the lens is what makes the image unique. So the lenses have nothing to do with the camera in a sense. The bodies all just have different features that effect the shooting experience but not the image (max shutter, manual vs electronic, auto focus, etc) The Hexar lenses are very good, but so are they Leica lenses. Hoping to pickup the 28mm Hexar at some point

[@noremacbeez]

What strap is on that camera?

[@seandalt]

It's in the description of the video but here it is: amzn.to/3wMtBpE Epic little strap!

[@CzejenAndCodaj]

But since when image depend on camera ;) My Leica m4 shoot the same as Rollei 35. Anyway nice lens ;) It is my wish list

[@seandalt]

Haha ultimately I think it does! Always gotta consider the lens though

[@emeixon]

You take really nice pictures :)

[@seandalt]

Thank you!

[@evertking1]

Canon v1 with EF glass is the lands hidden behind Antarctica.. 💯

[@seandalt]

No idea what this means but I love the way it sounds haha

[@robertalexander2478]

Did you edit these photos?

[@seandalt]

Just a little bit! Wasn’t really happy with some of the scans I got back from the lab. Color correction and contrast is all I do to my scans

[@hipabroad]

Great video, I am on the look for a film rangefinder too for something a bit more portable than my soviet SLRs, but crazy prices, I do want a mechanical tho, not sure about the longevity of an electronical one as you mentioned... did you try the Minolta CL?

[@seandalt]

I have heard great things about the Minolta CLE/Leica CL (I believe it’s the same camera correct?). Looks like a fun little camera to shoot with. This was in the running for me as well but I didn’t want to hold back so I went for the Konica which is a bit more premium. As long as you can make sure the light meter is working and you can get one for a good price I’d say give it a go. You can always resell it

[@hipabroad]

Yes I think it has the same mechanics of the leica something like that, same company haha. It’s £400 in the UK. I’m in Vietnam right now, the best place to find and develop cheap (but great quality) film photography deals, so I’ll hunt it down! I also want to make films photography videos but when I see the masterpieces of Graincheck, grainydays and all that crew, I cannot measure up to that production quality 😅. I do want to get out of pure travel vlogs tho. So you should do more of these, they are inspiring! 😊

[@seandalt]

Don’t worry about competing, just start sharing and you’ll get better! Everyone has their own voice, just gotta find yours. Also, Thailand is an amazing place to buy film cameras. Probably second to Japan. If you can get over there you can probably find one

[@hipabroad]

Very true. Thanks for the tips!

[@FredericBonneauPhotography]

Found it for $5,000 on bnh for that price masa’s well get a Leica!

[@seandalt]

Sheeeeshh that’s super expensive. Much cheaper on eBay from good sellers!

[@kiwipics]

Unfortunately the Hexar is a potentially expensive brick along with the Contax T2 and Hasselblad Xpan, and in fact any film camera that is fully electronic (just like my Canon EOS1) .. The only bonus are the lenses. A lovely camera, but is it worth the risk ?

[@seandalt]

Taking my chances! I have faith in it, if I get a few years out of it I’ll be happy

[@kiwipics]

@@seandalt ... At least he M mount lenses are useful after the demise of the body, as I'm sure they can be utilised.

[@seandalt]

@@kiwipicsexactly, that’s why I went for a decent lens. Even if the body goes it will still be used in the future

[@rumo201]

Yeahhh! The best of the best of the best of aaaalll the time 🥱

[@seandalt]

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, not stating facts here! :)

[@Stickybutton]

Film is just getting ridiculously expensive. Not to mention the lack of shops to send them in. Judging from your love for electronics, take the M7.

[@seandalt]

Yeah it’s getting a bit brutal hey. I’m glad I live in Asia where dev/scan costs are a fraction of what they are in the west. Film stock is about the same though

[@quite1enough]

try Konica IIIA

[@seandalt]

I’ll have to check it out, thank you!

[@cryptobyt2403]

I realized for candid street its better to use waist finder slr than rangefinder

[@seandalt]

Those are great, would love to shoot with one. Rangefinders are good for zone focusing but it’s not always easy to nail it

[@cryptobyt2403]

Rangefinder style i think best use for photo arts framing their target. In cafe or in park or garden. Being able to see outside the frame is critical.

[@cryptobyt2403]

Waist level can hide you are taking photo of things. Critical for candid and street. You always can get their natural expression without getting yelled or getting sued.

[@cryptobyt2403]

@@seandalt btw i really want to use m system like hexar. But my limited budget for another system. Lol

[@zhongyao-sc1lj]

I prefer to phone

[@JoeLopez]

Ken Rockwell 😆

[@seandalt]

He’s not a fan of this camera but can’t deny that he is the camera GOAT 😂

[@JoeLopez]

@@seandalt He knows SEO for sure

[@homecareful]

I have one, it is excellent. But, I will sell it because I no longer shoot film.

[@seandalt]

It’s getting a bit impractical to do so unfortunately

[@homecareful]

@@seandalt I had a bad experience with a lab. I put a roll through my Konica Hexar, really just to test the camera. Sent it to a lab in Birmingham, AL because it was close. Took them 2 months to process it and return it.

[@xstensl8823]

your lucky you have a home to go home to.

[@seandalt]

You’re right, I am very lucky to have that

[@theeramet.a]

Good 🎞🟥

[@seandalt]

Thank you!

[@MurakamiFan]

I'm sure you mean auto exposure lock 😉

[@seandalt]

You got me, haha. That’s definitely the more accurate term

[@DavidKabra]

Is that a Leica?!

[@seandalt]

Had a few people ask me that out and about haha

[@DavidKabra]

@@seandalt it's probably my favorite thing to say when I see other photographers out in the wild 😜

[@oversharingturtle4462]

RIP hexar market price

[@seandalt]

Now I can flip it for a profit. My master plan is falling into place

[@sebvz89]

M5 : )

[@seandalt]

Great camera!

[@linjicakonikon7666]

Canon VT DELUXE 👍

[@horstfleischmann10]

I would never trade the satisfying winding experience of my Leica m6. It´s one of the best parts of shooting film imo.

[@seandalt]

Sure feels nice!

[@justnoted2995]

I thought you were talking nonsense about Ken Rockwell, then I watched further and realized you were exaggerating about everything

[@seandalt]

Ken Rockwell is a legend, he’s done so much for the photography community. But, it’s well known he’s not a fan of the Konica

[@SrNutritivo]

The "for about 200 bucks" thing only happens to KZbinrs 😂

[@manphoto1972]

I hear twenty hundred ( 2000 bucks) no?

[@seandalt]

$1200. Would cry if I found it for $200 lol

[@BooHoogland]

jesus christ, how much gear shilling can one platform handle. no this isnt better than an m6, yes this person just wants sell you affiliate links and stupid lightroom presets.

[@seandalt]

Welcome to the channel! 😘

[@linjicakonikon7666]

"fully electronic"...💥👎Pass

[@seandalt]

To each his own!

[@DRGBTL23]

Sounds like a overpriced contax to me

[@seandalt]

You can get them for cheaper!

[@BigBreakfast]

fantastic video! the photos you created with this camera are nothing short of incredible and i love this sample of your photographic eye! funny that i was just watching faizal before clicking this video from a channel i wasn't even subscribed to and you mentioned him as a friend lol, small world (definitely subbing to you BTW!)