Oly35mm Review - OM-40

[@oly35mm]

***PLEASE NOTE*** The Oly35mm 2015/16 project is now closed and I will not be answering any more comments (as from 1st April 2017). Thank you to all who have taken the time to watch these videos, and a special thank you to everyone who commented, or added extra information to them. I wish you all many happy years of using film, or any other photography you enjoy. Cheers Oly

[@wildbob]

Having owned OM-2, Om-4, and still using them, I also owned an OM-PC (OM-40) for a while, and I have to say it took some stunning photos. The program mode has some serious mojo.

[@TechnicIsFun]

Hi, beautiful review! Do you know how to change the focusing screen of the OM40?

[@oly35mm]

I suppose it all depends on whether you wish to use it, or not. Either way, a good start would be to chat with a local camera club member, or pop along to a market that has a stall that sells old film cameras. They can give you an idea as to what you can do with it. They don't sell for much online (around AU$80-120 in good condition with a genuine Zuiko lens).

[@TheRealBoroNut]

I used this camera for a while and I soon learned to trust the ESP metering mode and abandoned trying to second guess it. It did a great job even on slide film. Very light camera in contrast to the pro models, but the 2 seconds max auto exposure on amateur OM cameras can be limiting in low light situations. Otherwise a very nice camera to use and pretty too.

[@oly35mm]

At about 7:35 you will see the iris open slowly. This is a fault with the individual lens (sticky blades) and is not indicative of Zuiko lenses, 50mm f1.8, or otherwise.

[@stumpycatvm7115]

wow, selling some nice nikon gear to get into the OM old school system, found a mint OM40, online, like the more programable technology of the 80s-90's technology, I got snagged on your review of the Macro 90mm f2 and 135mm macro, shooting more film now for some reason, I thought is was temporary but, it still going on. I need a doctor

[@lucymcgowan6203]

I have a slight problem with mine. I bought it off of eBay over two years ago now and when it arrived it was in perfect condition, was working smoothly and fine. However, now the shutter it constantly closed. I have replaced the batteries with new ones and it didn't do anything, the check option on the dial doesn't make a noise to check battery now. I'm worried. Please help if you know how to fix this. I am heart broken :(

[@Gh0stTech]

I had the same problem after picking mine up from a thrift store. I believe mine was the the mirror being stuck not the shutter. I also could not fire the shutter or wind the arm. If it's your mirror: How I solved it was to use the self timer to snap the mirror back down. After that I dry-fired the camera a bunch on a fast shutter speed to work it in. Things like dust and oil can cause the mechanism to jam up. So if you manage to get it firing, keep breaking it in. If its actually your shutter you may have to find a disassembly guide and do some cleaning. If it's an electrical issue that may require some professional help. Or like above a good cleaning of the battery terminals. A common problem known as "Sticky Magnet Syndrome" sounds like what you have. There is a flickr page dedicated to this camera with more information www.flickr.com/groups/1950638@N22/discuss/72157629355155289/

[@brianpaull2232]

Sounds crazy make sure the batteries LR44s are correctly facing the right way?

[@paulqueripel3493]

Sticky magnets, common problem.

[@widgetmaster1]

Hey loved the video! Don't suppose you'd be able to provide me with a written guide as to the difference in each setting mode and how to use them? Still a bit confused as to which one to use on a basic level.

[@oly35mm]

Howdy Sam, thanks for your comment. I always find the best way to learn about cameras is through their instruction manuals, as they are generally pitched at the beginner. You'll find the OM-40/PC manual at www.butkus.org/chinon/olympus.htm I'd encourage you to send Mike a few bucks for his efforts, but that's up to you. Good luck with learning and using this marvellous camera.

[@rogerinvan]

OMGoodness, finally someone can give a full explanation on how to use this camera! Altho, you may have covered most of all functions, except that one little button "R" right behind the shutter button. What is that? Thank you!

[@oly35mm]

Thanks Roger Luo. I'm glad I could help. The 'R' button allows you to rewind the film (quite often you will find this button on the bottom of the OM cameras).

[@rogerinvan]

Amazing! Thank you again!

[@marcelocampoamor4761]

@@oly35mm not att the bottom but at the front

[@suntoryjim]

Got one! Looking forward to burning my first roll in it.

[@oly35mm]

Have fun! It's the best consumer OM model you can buy (in my opinion).

[@suntoryjim]

+oly 35mm I just got my OM-PC and F.Zuiko 50 1.8. I noticed that the focusing screen on my camera is a 4 cross-hair type screen without split-screen or microprism. Although the view finder is very bright, it's a bit of a challenge to nail focus. Is this the case with your OM-40?

[@oly35mm]

+Suntoryjim: I have the standard split screen and collar. In fact I didn't know you could get the OM-PC to change focus screens (unless this was completed by a repair centre). Mine is the OM-40, but I believe the OM-PC is just a designation change.

[@suntoryjim]

I didn't think so, either. You're right in that it's most likely a custom job (considering how clean the focusing screen is, and most of these old cameras are gummed-up with liquefied foam).

[@gah1431]

hi,i have a question,How do i turn off the camera?There's no Off /on selection. byeeee

[@tompavlik2639]

You can not. You have to take the batteries out manually i guess.

[@razok2125]

I inherited one of these from my aunt. Not really sure what to do with it. I have no experience with photography and no nothing about cameras.

[@oly35mm]

Razok: I suppose it all depends on whether you wish to get into photography or not. Although the OM-40 has some great automatic features (with exposure). SLR film cameras, in general, are not the easiest way to learn photography (but I would personally argue, that with perseverance, they are one of the best ways). The link here (www.guidetofilmphotography.com/photography-film-cameras.html) is one of many that can help you get started. Good luck with your mission (should you choose to accept it).

[@theonlylivingboy]

KEEP IT!!! 😂

[@oly35mm]

Cheers Nick. Do you have one? If so, what are your thoughts?

[@theonlylivingboy]

I don't I'm afraid, I just know how difficult it is to let go off cameras!! 😀

[@oly35mm]

True. I keep on threatening to move them on, but it hasn't happened yet.

[@mohamedmahil7959]

Set speed to 1.25x

[@anthonys_expired_film]

Great review! I have the OMPC version in America. Are you on Instagram? Cheers from USA 🇺🇸!