Olympus XA - A Photographer's Camera

This little tiny camera stole my heart. I love it.
www.miketakes.p...
Sample images shot on Kodak Ektar.
Song: MF DOOM - All Spice

[@kareemcantdraw5166]

Using MF Doom instrumentals and talking about film photography. Automatically favourite youtuber.

[@MikeJanik]

+Kareem Alsaady thank you for the love my guy, I'm trying to bring a new style to all this!!! DOOM all day!!! Shame I can't use his instrumentals in other videos, got caught up in copyright issues, sheesh.

[@RFStarkJapan]

I bought one of these beautiful little cameras in Tokyo in 1981 and still have it! It's great to see someone so excited about film photography.

[@randallstewart175]

Got to love Mike's passion for the XA. It does pack a full set of features into a tiny package - really unmatched. And it's as easy and fun to use as Mike says. The issues raised about troublesome shutter release relates to the fact that the release is an electric button and the shutter is released electrically. Why? The camera is so small and light that a conventional mechanical shutter release would make people shake the camera. My only bone to pick: lens sharpness, or the lack thereof. The lens is more than adequately sharp for normal usage, but compared to other small cameras offered at that time, it's okay in the center of the image and a true dog at the image edges and corners. Olympus had to design a novel and "radical" lens in order to fit it into the thin body package. Lens sharpness was given up to make the rest of the camera come together. The XA became the darling of collectors after a while, used prices running up to $150-200 for a clean copy. About ten years ago, that market crashed, forcing a sell-off in the range of $65-75. Still a fair price today.

[@supermario1982171]

actually been looking for a channel like this for ages brilliant

[@MikeJanik]

+Mario Rossi glad I could be the one to fill that spot!!

[@aravindvinayakan]

I miss this channel. Mike if you ever see this, you helped push me towards two of my favorite film cameras of all time: the Olympus XA and the Nikon F3 and for that, I thank you!

[@MikeJanik]

hope you're doing well my friend, thank you for this ❤

[@engamaury]

Excellent videos, but for me the background should be a little lower. Keep it up, excellent choices for reviews. keep film alive.

[@MikeJanik]

+engamaury I'm with you on that, I've fixed the audio levels in my latest videos! Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@HendrikusDeVaan]

Just picked one of these up for 50cents, including the a11! Putting my first roll through it now, but this thing feels amazing!

[@MikeJanik]

Sheesh, that's INSANE!!! Truly an awesome find for 50 cents, I'm incredibly envious! Would love to hear your thoughts on the XA after you get this first roll developed!

[@Glazehikes]

Right on. Love the passion for this little rangefinder. Thanks for the video

[@potterka1]

Omg yes thank you I needed someone to match my level of enthusiasm about this baby!

[@Kodachrome40]

When this camera was released it was known as the camera that professional photographers took on vacation. The shutter is controlled by an electromagnet. The XA is the best. Don’t get the XA2, they took some of the features off of it..

[@burketholomew]

Dude please make more videos!

[@MikeJanik]

Coming soon bro!!

[@lucasleroy2584]

Good video. But why didn't you cut the music to let us hear the shutter ?

[@KingJvpes]

Hey mike quick question. Just picked one of these up and i've never shot a rangefinder before so I'm confused about the focusing. For example if i was in the street shooting and i wanted to take a photo of a subject walking down the street first i would have to line up the rangefinder patch on the subject, but what if i wanted to put that subject in 1/3 of the frame do i line it up first in the middle then move it? I'm confused lol, any tips would greatly be appreciated! Thank you

[@alex_rodriguez777]

I was so inspired by this review I went out and bought one! Just picked it up today, going to go out and shoot and wait for the results. Thanks Mike.

[@MikeJanik]

+Alex Rodriguez that's super exciting!!! Hope you love yours as much as I love mine! Link me to some shots once you get your film developed!

[@alex_rodriguez777]

+Mike Janik Just got them developed, but a good majority of them are out of focus and crap. Guess I'll have to try again.

[@MikeJanik]

+Alex Rodriguez dang, that's a bummer. Is that because the rangefinder focusing patch is a little dim and it's difficult to get perfect focus or because it's just a camera that'll take some getting used to? Keep at it man!!

[@alex_rodriguez777]

I think it's a mixture of both, at first I didn't notice the ghost image focusing patch because it was so dim but now I know. I'm also working on creating good habits with not shaking the camera as I press the shutter button and all that jazz. Thanks Mike!

[@MikeJanik]

+Alex Rodriguez right on, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you! If you're finding the viewfinder a little dusty/dirty, maybe try gently spraying a little condensed air into the viewfinder from the little grates above it on the top of the camera, might help make focusing a bit easier! It worked for me at least. I mean the bits between the shutter button and the clamshell case in this photo, you see those darker vertical slots here, I spritzed some air into them: i.ytimg.com/vi/nnDS1sLT-Og/maxresdefault.jpg Cleaning up the lens that illuminates the rangefinder patch (the little tiny one to the left of the viewfinder when you're looking head-on at the camera) would also help make that rangier patch a little easier to see. Also, I'm hoping this isn't an issue for your camera, but maybe the rangefinder needs calibration? There's a DIY video up on KZbin that'll guide you through it if you want to give it a shot, but let's try and rule that out as an issue first! Wishing you all the best with the XA!

[@onasuh]

XA. A camera that I really love. I haven't used it for more than five years, but I'm going to try again. Thank you for the nice video!

[@michaeldl49]

Thank you for the review. I just bought one with the A16 flash from eBay. I owned this camera many years ago until it feel into the Ganges river in India, while traveling there. I managed to pick it up but was of course useless. I'm glad to have it again, thanks to your inspiring review.

[@MikeJanik]

+Michael DeLisio whoa, sounds like you have a rich history with the XA! So glad you've reconnected with the camera!

[@OrionDesignz]

how is this camera for taking portraits of people? such as models or possibly street (maybe). Im thinking about this the XA2, a Leica Minilux or a t2. Im just starting film so i don't wanna spend $400-$500 right out of the gate for the T2 or Minilux. So which would you recommend between the xa or xa2??

[@markavra2520]

man,please answer me.i have this camera.everything is working but,the red button up is not responding.But when i have the film release open is working.the problem is i no have film in hare?if i put film in camera the red button will working???

[@zackpohuski1320]

Just found one of these for 2 dollars! Amazing find. What kind of film do you use?

[@MikeJanik]

+Zack Pohuski that's phenomenal my dude! I shoot exclusively with Kodak films, Ektar 100 is the bomb!

[@canturgan]

If you are coming from digital cameras and you get one of these to get a taste of film photography I suggest using 400 speed film like Portra for colour or Ilford XP2 for black and white. Both of these films can be processed in a minilab like in Jessops (UK), quite reasonably including prints and scans. XP2 is a fantastic film with great latitude so you can make quite big mistakes and still get a result. The XA camera has a hyperfocal guide written in orange, it's 5.6 on the aperture setting and there is an orange mark on the lens at 8 feet. This is good for street photography if you're not too practised at altering the focus setting and you will get good result from the very sharp Zuiko lens.

[@terrywbreedlove]

6 years later and I am about to buy the XA :)

[@Blarm]

hey man - been using the camera for a while. Love it, but don't you think it needs way too much light. If you're anywhere but a fully lit room or in daylight, you need that flash. Or else the shutter time is crazy long. Maybe its just mine but that would be the only down side for me. U experienced the same?

[@nicholaskoenig1089]

Just picked an XA with A11 flash up for $2 at a flea market. Cleaned it out, got the flash working and replaced the batteries. Everything looks mechanically sound. Time to put in a roll!

[@MikeJanik]

+Nicholas Koenig wooooooo what a find! Hope you love the camera!!!

[@Kenaroni]

I have one of these, the early XA, and I love mine too. It's not the greatest, sharpest camera ever by any means, but there is something magical about the pictures it takes, and it's like a little jewel. Just got mine few years ago, but I'm old enough to remember when they came out in 1979-80. I wanted one badly, but had already spent all my summer job money on a brand new Olympus OM-1. The original retail price of the XA was about $120, which in today's money is about $300 to $315. So you can see it was quite an expensive pocket camera back then.

[@MriPandaHD]

My guy mike... quick question XA or XA 2 I noticed the xa2 doesn’t have the Manuel focus... which one bruv?

[@Crankedx1000]

I'm going to start doing street/fashion photography. Would the xa or the stylus epic be better taking pictures of random people on the street? Just thinking about the manual vs automatic focus differences

[@MikeJanik]

Very, very tough question to answer. The XA can be faster to focus if you're experienced with its rangefinder, whereas the Stylus Epic will be more consistent and faster with focusing out of the gate. I'd take the Epic for street photography, but you also have to consider the lack of aperture control if you go that route.

[@Crankedx1000]

I went ahead and got the xa just so I could have a little more control over things. But i'll probably pick up an SE if I can find one for a good price. Thanks dude!

[@gregoHybrid]

Hi Mike. I saw this video a while ago when I was searching for a good compact camera. Found your page and since then, have followed it (YOU NEED TO DO MORE VIDEOS MIKE). I purchased the camera and tried it a few times but found it a bit tricky. I really don't know why, but I think it had to do with the little rangefinder patch (I am not use to rangefinder cameras). I admit that 2 of those times were at night time so maybe it was even more difficult for me to focus. Since then, I haven't used it much (bought a Canon af35m ii), but I still have it so might as well give it another go. Any advice on what film works best or what time of the day should i try with this camera? EduardoPavezGoye (another you tuber who reviews cameras and film) also did a review on the XA, and also didn't love it :/.

[@a.l.alexander3668]

Because of your video of this camera, I did some research and just purchased one after some back and forth counter offering on eBay for $55.00 + shipping. I can't wait for it to arrive. Thank you Olympus Boy.

[@monsterinyourroom]

How would you compare the xa to the stylus epic? They both seem like point-and-shoots so am struggling to choose between them

[@MikeJanik]

The XA is definitely more of a rangefinder than a point and shoot.

[@thedondeluxe6941]

Couldn't agree more. Glorious camera! NEVER use force when winding the film back into the spool, though. The winder is super flimsy and breaks easily. If it starts resisting too much, just find a dark room and remove the film straight out of the back.

[@Elmia15]

Finally I found someone who talks about analog photography. I'm also a big fan of the XA, keep on doing these videos mate!

[@MikeJanik]

+Samira plenty videos to come!! Long live film!

[@pablo1gr1]

Hi. I just got mine. was wondering what type of film you prefer, and what asa on this particular camara? and where do you like to shop for film.

[@sidbrun_]

I've seen people recommend Kodak Ektar 100 for this camera so you could try that, but first you should probably try something cheaper like Kodak Gold 200, Kodak Ultramax, Fuji Superia 200/400 etc. After you've tried cheaper film try Kodak Portra 160/400 and Kodak Ektar 100 etc. As for setting ASA, read the manual, it's on the front of the camera, you set the ASA (or ISO today) according to what the film's box says. I would suggest you set the ISO slightly lower than what the box says, so if you're shooting ISO 400 film, set the camera to ISO 320. You'll get better results with overexposure.

[@MikeJanik]

+Pablo Gomez hey Pablo! I prefer low ASA colour film - Kodak Ektar 100 looks awesome shot on the XA! I buy all my film in bulk off eBay.

[@ofDepreciationatTaxRate]

Oddly enough the day after I discovered your channel I found a random film camera at a goodwill for a little under 20 dollars near my house. It was a major brand and without thinking too awful much i asked to try it. the shutter was stuck and the film advance didnt work, and the lady said it was broken. after fiddling a bit I got it to take a photo (no film ofc) before locking again. I decided to by it with the only risk being that I may end up one of those people who return something to Goodwill. However what I stumbled onto was an Olympus OM-2n in near mint condition with a dead battery. A battery change later and I have a working film camera in near mint condition with a stunning 50mm 1.8 lens, a pentax skylight filter, and one of the best viewfinders ive ever used. Plus it sells for a pretty penny on Ebay. TLDR: Thanks for making me think about old film cameras, it lead me to an old near-mint Olympus OM-2n. Now to try out Ektar...

[@pascalcamarillo5491]

Would you know how to reset the shot count? Mine is stuck at 26.

[@brendankelley8791]

I always wondered what was so great about this camera and why everyone was losing their head over it. After hearing you talk so compassionately about it and seeing the beautiful sample images I am definitely picking one up. It's looks amazing. Thank you my good sir

[@MikeJanik]

+Brendan Kelley my guy, you gotta try the XA!! I can shout praise from the mountaintops for an eternity about this camera but that still wouldn't compete with the hands-on experience. Hope you love the camera as much as I do!

[@ghw7192]

I spent two weeks traveling around Nova Ssotia with an XA and A16 fkash

[@danieldijo]

awesome

[@lenoxii8717]

Ima going to have to find one online to buy man. Also where did you get this song? super fire!

[@ryanbaker9680]

I have this camera that I found in my parent's house, but the shutter button is stuck like you mentioned towards the end of your film. Do you know if there is a way to fix it?

[@MikeJanik]

+Molly Baker yikes, it's difficult to say without seeing it. Could be the shutter button itself or something further in the shutter mechanism. Hope it fixes itself for you!

[@rys.d]

ah your personality makes your videos the bestest!!! and gosh darn it your music choice too

[@Blarm]

hey man nice review - inspired me to buy the camera. My first time working with analogue photography and I have a quick question... I put in film with 36 exposures - I don't understand how the exposure counter works though? Does it still work fine with 36 rather than 24 roll? Does it count up? Any help with this would be appreciated - I only started using it today however so maybe all will become clear

[@MikeJanik]

+Blair MacLennan any film counter goes up to 36 by default! When you reach the end of your roll, you'll feel resistance against the film advance lever/film winder that will lock it up and prevent you from winding it any further - that's your cue to rewind the roll.

[@GarciaJewels]

Just got this camera due to your video and I am loving it! Keep up the good videos

[@MikeJanik]

+Jewels Garcia glad you're digging the camera! Stay tuned for more!

[@GrahamAtDesk]

I picked one of these up early this year. I was very lucky; it's in fantastic condition. I just took it to Barcelona and put a couple of old rolls through it. looking forward to getting them developed!

[@MikeJanik]

+Graham Ashton lucky you! It's definitely a wonderful camera for travel!

[@j-sims8978]

You’re killin it dude. We need more subs for this guy

[@kbdalcour18]

Where did you get that Olympus Boys shirt! I need it!

[@MikeJanik]

+Lazuliv you won't be able to find them anymore, they've been sold out for a couple years now! Copped the shirt from Nighted though, they're an awesome photography and zine collective out in LA.

[@kbdalcour18]

Aw man well thanks for answering! Your videos are great!

[@michaelalmond2238]

I first heard of the XA from Colin Fletcher's, The Complete Walker. The camera sold new for $235, & to emphasize the seriousness of the XA, he said, "This is not a toy." I was fortunate enough to find several used ones at a store down the street from where I lived. I have two XA's & two XA-2's (a point & shoot). Like so many other's, I'm completely in love with these amazing cameras, & prefer it to my digital cameras. Sorry to see the prices so high today. But for the pleasure of having a work of art & functionality, it's worth it.

[@PlusMinusAll]

Personally I got in touch with the XA2 in a Dutch thrift store, where I found one for like 2,5€. Took some of my best pictures with it. The very dumbed down zone focussing has never ever let me down, and allows for some shooting from the hip. It is more of a good wheater camera though; also have the (smaller) flash, which I never really used.

[@MikeJanik]

The XA2 is a solid option, and it really comes down to personal preference between the XA's rangedinder and the XA2's zone focusing. Both are awesome, and despite their similarities, they do the same job very differently!

[@frognapsss]

Where does one get an Olympus boys t-shirt?

[@joshuaphrakhun9085]

Man i'm trying to decide between a XA2 or MJU ii for my third film camera - i've been shooting on a Canon T70 which i've been shooting pretty much fully auto and just sold it on to make a switch. I understand this is a range finder and the stylus epic is a PNS but I can pickup an XA2 for one quarter of the price here in AUS. Will I have many issues making the switch to a somewhat manual camera or shouldn't it take much to pick up!

[@Kenaroni]

Joshua Phrakhun, what did you end up buying? The XA2 is a more simplified version of the XA, with 3 focusing zones (not true rangefinder focus) and a slightly slower lens, but still sharp. That said, I know a lot of people love their XA2's. For a compact vintage film camera, shop around for an older rangefinder like the ones Minolta, Canon and Olympus sold in the late 1960's-early 70's. These were some really great cameras with sharp lenses. Be aware that some of them need a substitute battery workaround, as mercury camera batteries are no longer sold.

[@joshuaphrakhun9085]

Actually ended picking up a mju ii, thanks for this though man!

[@JUANKERR2000]

To quote Stan Freberg's Banana Boat Song re the 'background' row". It's still too loud, man. I can still hear it."!

[@maxnorris3297]

Looking to buy my first camera and an XA is one of my options. As a first camera do you think it's a good choice?

[@MikeJanik]

Might be a little finnicky for a first camera - I'd say stick with a manual SLR to get you going!

[@AndyShaw6699]

Best camera review ever.. seriously.

[@MikeJanik]

+Andy S thank you bro, trying to give camera reviews some new pizzazz!

[@dustincoffman4721]

Is the XA really much better than the XA2? Should I spend the extra cash and opt for the XA over the XA2? What's your opinion Mike?

[@MikeJanik]

+Dustin Coffman it comes to what kind of focusing system you want. Do you want a full rangefinder or a zone-focusing camera? I'd spend a little bit extra and cash out on the XA though 💸

[@junkmail4376]

Have to agree with you, it's such a quaint and fun little camera. Mine is my first film camera and its got me hooked!

[@MikeJanik]

+jerry45 quaint and fun sums it up perfectly, it always puts a huge smile on my face! Definitely draws a lot of compliments too! Glad the film family has you on board with us man, keep shooting!

[@elisalant]

Love your videos, just got back into film, so learning all over again. I wanted to ask you a question . There seem to be 2 models of the XA. One seems to have the f stops on the LHS of the camera, and the other I have seen, does not have the f stop lever, but a photo of a single person, and group of people....?? Any idea as to what I am talking about? Cheers Eli

[@MikeJanik]

Hey Eli! It sounds like you're talking about the XA and the XA2. The XA has those aperture controls and is a full rangefinder camera, whereas the XA2 doesn't have aperture controls and is only a zone-focusing camera - those images of a single person, a group of people, mountains, etc. are the different focus distances you choose. The XA series is a massive collection, I think there are five different XA cameras!

[@elisalant]

Got it Mike, many thanks for the explanation, much appreciated. Cheers Eli

[@RobertNuttmann]

Mike, I bought one of these with the 16 flash new in about 1986. I took thousands of pictures with it. Finally I sold it on ebay last year. Why, not enough keepers out of a roll of film. My XA worked well the whole time I owned it. But the viewfinder is small and can be a bit hard to adjust the focus. Plus in bright light the meter in the finder is hard to see. I have pretty big hands too so this camera might have been just a smidge too small. I was surprised by how much it sold for on ebay. I bought a very nice Oly OM2n kit with camera, motor drive, 50mm 1.8, 135mm 3.5, 28mm 2.8, flash, filters, good bag for the same price I sold the XA for. The OM2 is much bigger but the pictures that you get from it are superior. Good video. I see you have not made any for a while. Get back at it.

[@MikeJanik]

+Robert Nuttmann hello Robert! I agree that the XA's viewfinder can be a little finicky, and while the XA may not have worked out as a whole for you, I'm glad it helped fund your Olympus OM2n kit! You definitely scored a great deal. Thank you for your kind words! I'm happy to let you know that I finally had a moment to record a video today on the Nikon F3; hopefully I can edit and post it sometime this weekend.

[@riceboy890]

How fast does your flash recharge? My A16 takes around 12-15 seconds sometimes

[@danieldijo]

normal

[@nose821]

Thank you for showing pictures taken with this camera i want to buy one because i can buy a bulk of film from ilford by the way which is not the same like having an Holga 120mm but it is possible for you make a videos going outside and testing this camera? thank you.

[@MikeJanik]

I've actually been recording a little photo vlog this week - I didn't go out to test the XA this time around, but I might be able to do it in a future episode!

[@nose821]

Thank you Mike it'll be good to see it, and the way on how to expose black and white because that camera have a shutter speed priority that will be good to know.

[@nose821]

how to apply Zone system is that what i want to know.

[@MikeJanik]

nose821 I have absolutely no clue how the zone system works, I've tried to understand it and it just isn't working out for me. It's more than I ever need and it unnecessarily complicates the photos I take, especially because I shoot colour film 95% of the time.

[@nose821]

welll daanngg it Mike but well it's ok just show the negatives to see the density at least ajajajaajjajajajajajaaja

[@andreacasari6527]

Yo! Thanks to your video I went and got myself an XA and I gotta say it's a great little piece of equipment. Can't wait to see how the first roll turned out! Keep up the good work you're doing with the channel and with the Toronto Times! Cheers from Italy

[@petercruz1993]

Hey man, I'm new to film. I'm going to buy this Olympus thanks to this video. Could I ask a question though. Which film camera would you recommend for changeable lenses, which is an slr? Preferably a cheap small one :) Thanks for the videos, subbed

[@MikeJanik]

+Peter Cruz thank you for the sub my boy! If you want cheap SLRs, you can find plenty of Minolta's on eBay for the low. Minolta SRT101s would be the cheapest (and arguably the simplest to maintain/work on), but SRT202s or XGs shouldn't be too much pricier and are considered a little fancier than the 101s. There are also a bunch Minolta lenses to choose from in a bunch of different focal lengths, they should give you plenty flexibility with creating the look you want.

[@Technoane]

Subbed, love your videos! What do you think about the Nikon L35AF? I heard good stories about it and want to buy one next to my AMAZING Nikon F3.

[@MikeJanik]

+Technoanus thank you for the sub, so glad you're enjoying the videos! I've only heard great things about the Nikon L35AF, hopefully I'll be able to find one at a flea market in the spring or summer and snag it for cheap. Bought myself an F3 about a month and a half ago and I've been absolutely in love with it, can't wait to put another roll of film through it!

[@monsterkis]

I love your passion for cameras man honestly, it's a shame you're not in England, I'd love to go shooting with you although I'm rocking a Fuji x100t

[@nemampass]

Great review!I love my little XA! Just one small correction,when you flick the aperture lever to "flash" setting,the aperture does not go to f5.6,like you stated in the video,but rather to something like f3.5...

[@MikeJanik]

Yikes, thank you for the correction, you're absolutely right! It definitely looks like something between f/2.8 and f/4, can't believe I didn't notice it before!

[@saliffbischoff3612]

Great video, love the commentary

[@RememberMyChannel]

Great review! :) Do you have any thoughts on the xa vs. the xa1? I can find a cheap deal on the xa1 near where I live but if it doesn't compare at all to the xa I'd rather wait :)

[@BrokeColonel]

xa1 is the worst of the xa line.I'm not that surprise to find how cheap the xa1 is even with a discount or anything. So I recommend you wait for the xa.

[@RememberMyChannel]

I guess it's worth paying the extra money for the ax then :) thanks!

[@aabatz]

Thank you for this video! Very informational. I have this same camera and I found it whilst cleaning out. Love you're passion xx

[@aabatz]

*your

[@AnthonyBoettcher24]

Love your frames. Where did you get them?

[@LeSomeoneAnonymous]

Hi, i proper wanna purchase this, but idk how film works in all honesty, how do i even take a pic>???!?!?!?!?!

[@MikeJanik]

+KIRAN M you have to do your own research for that. Look up 'the exposure triangle'.

[@LeSomeoneAnonymous]

+Mike Janik thanks! also whats the difference between the XA and XA2?

[@MikeJanik]

KIRAN M the XA2 has a different lens and a different focusing system, I'm not a big fan of it. The features might be better suited for you though, so hit up google.

[@LeSomeoneAnonymous]

+Mike Janik ayt safe mate

[@rollzyyyyyyyy]

nice vid man, trying to find an XA but ended up a XA2, still good, but obviously the lack of manual controls are limiting. Just found a Canonet 28 for £10, havent shot it yet, but any opinions?

[@MikeJanik]

+Rollo Martin thank you for the compliment B! A lot of people prefer the XA2 over the XA for street shooting because you can preset focus and snap away speedily, it's still a pretty nifty camera! I don't have any personal experience with the Canonets but have heard of their legend! They need a battery to work, so depending on where you're at, it might be difficult to find the particular replacement battery the Canonets need. Aside from that, they're awesome little things!

[@arnurson]

+Mike Janik Second that. I prefer the XA2 for that exact reason.

[@MichaelDahlkvist]

I NEED IT! Cant belive i havent heard about this one, how cool.

[@Cris2bal]

Do you prefer this camera over the Mju ii?

[@MikeJanik]

+Cris Sanchez AHH that's a tough call to make. I'll say yes, just because I like the aperture priority for a little more control even though the Mju II is the more reliable of the two.

[@Cris2bal]

+Mike Janik Are there any negative differences between the XA., XA2 and the XA3? I think im going to try to pick one up on ebay.

[@MikeJanik]

+Cris Sanchez I'll try and run it down in a quick little bullet point list: XA - F Zuiko f/2.8 lens (!!!! woo!!) - full rangefinder focusing - +1.5 stop backlight compensation XA2 - D Zuiko f/3.5 lens - zone focusing - some people say it has a better meter than the XA - basically a simplified version of the XA XA3 - no personal experience with this one - basically an XA2+ or Mark II version of the XA2 - D Zuiko f/3.5 lens - zone focusing - automatic DX code reading (accommodating ISOs to 1600) - +1.5 stop backlight compensation All of them have 35mm lenses and all have electronic shutters, so testing them might be a pain in the butt. They need batteries to operate so if you find one that isn't firing for cheap, try putting some fresh SR44 batteries in it and see if that solves it. I'm selling my XA2 with the A11 flash, let me know if you'd be interested in it, mechanically works perfectly, just threw some fresh batteries in it.

[@PhoenixMoore]

I miss the videos mannnn.

[@AnythingONandOFF]

Hey Mike, Andrew again, deciding between this XA and the XA3 and am wondering if the manual focusing on the XA is worth it versus the three zone focusing on the XA3. Also the XA3 can go up to ISO 1600. Let me know your thoughts man.

[@MikeJanik]

I've always preferred having full control over my focus vs. zone focus but the debate comes down to personal preference. What will work better for you? What will help you get the shot you want?

[@AnythingONandOFF]

Leavning towards the XA. 2.8 and full control over focus... man thats perfect. Wish it went to 1600 but ill deal with 800 or find a way to process

[@AnythingONandOFF]

DAMMIT, I am buying one now. Cannot wait for it to arrive.

[@MikeJanik]

***** Hell yeah dude, congrats on the decision!

[@Greener-Delphing]

please help! im so torn up between the XA and the XA4 as to what i should potentially purchase. it seems to me that the XA gives you more control in terms of the rangefinder and aperture although im not sure if the newer XA4 works just as well in terms of control. going from a fully manual camera to one with more automation weirds me out. also if anyone could suggest any more compact point and shoot cameras that would be awesome. my SLR is starting to get me haha PS im a massive amateur just want to get the opinions of you more experienced people

[@MikeJanik]

The XA is always the answer - point and shoots don't get much smaller than the XA series. You can also check out Rollei's 35- series for tiny cameras with all manual control.

[@Greener-Delphing]

yeah i figured, i saw an XA for the first time at a shop yesterday and was so intrigued by it. never seen such a small point and shoot. seems like olympus always pioneered the best in that regard and considering my other SLR is olympus i think im becoming a bit of a fanboy haha. ive always looked at other makers and never really felt the attraction of them as good as i know they are... probably a bad thing.

[@studiosnch]

I own an XA and an XA4 so I think I can answer with some authority. Short answer, go for the XA. Long answer, it depends on your style of photography. Yes the XA is nicer as an all-around shooter's camera, with its aperture-priority control and rangefinder focusing. But TBH most of the time I do not use the rangefinder and instead just leave it at hyperfocal. The XA4 is just as neat since it has a wider (but slower) 28mm f/3,5 lens (compared to XA's 35mm f/2,8), auto-program exposure (still useful and still give you creative options), and macro capabillity. However, ask yourself first before you get either: do you need a secondary camera capable of wide angle shots (XA4) or for spur-of-the-moment shots (XA). I have used both for travel photography (where they really do best) and they both exceed my expectations, IQ-wise and of course ergonomics-wise.

[@fenderwoods]

They're great little cameras! I found two of 'em at flea markets for €2 each. Very happy with that.

[@MikeJanik]

+fenderwoods geez, that's the score of the century!!! What a find!!!

[@muffemod]

1:21 "BOOP"

[@xKindred]

Excellent video! What film were you using in the test shots?

[@MikeJanik]

+Liam M thank you, so glad you liked it! All the sample photos here were shot on Ektar 100.

[@tobiasash]

I wish more camera reviews were like this!

[@MikeJanik]

+Tobias Hoggard I'm very glad I can fill that niche for you! Doing my best to bring a new vibe to all this!

[@tobiasash]

+Mike Janik I literally just purchased one online!so stoked. Saw a review on Japan camera hunter and then this one sealed the deal! Thanks!

[@MikeJanik]

+Tobias Hoggard no problem my dude, enjoy the camera!!

[@grayson206]

This is the camera used my Mamimi in Fooly Cooly!

[@fromseedstogiants]

Gotta know where you got that sweet Olympus shirt man

[@HellaReckless]

Ahead of your time with this one lol. Now it’s HYPED

[@nicklopro]

Olympus BOYS! Love my XA! Yo why am I just finding this channel? SUBBED! Where'd you go? Just posted my first vid featuring this camera. such a fun rangefinder in your pocket. Took mine to Big Bend.

[@emilkjrbo713]

I really love this video, like, its this i've been looking for on youtube, the whole time! I got a question though. Are all those samples taken on a olympus xa?

[@MikeJanik]

Yeah boy, all the samples were shot on the XA! It's a camera that seriously punches above its weight class.

[@emilkjrbo713]

+Mike Janik Sick! Really didn't expect that. Thank u

[@vnollora]

Hey should I get an XA or an XA2 in your opinion?

[@MikeJanik]

+Vince Nollora cop the XA

[@bryansheehy2000]

Just purchased one on ebay after watching this fantastic video. I took it to Disneyland for its first trial run. I should be getting two rolls back on Friday. I must add that the focusing is pretty hard to get accustom to. And the shutter release is INSANELY sensitive. But it was still a lot of fun to shoot with.

[@MikeJanik]

+Bryan Sheehy that's fantastic, link me to some of the shots, I'd love to see them! Glad you're liking the camera! The focusing is definitely initially tricky and I still second-guess my focus sometimes, but it becomes a more fluid process once your eye becomes adjusted to the contrast between the two focusing patches (or whatever they're actually called). UGH! I LOVE THE SHUTTER RELEASE SO MUCH! INSTANT CLICK! JUST CLICK CLICK CLICK ALL THE TIME, IT'S THE BEST!

[@bryansheehy2000]

Will do, Mike. Keep up the videos. I really dig your channel... And your Tumblr too.

[@MikeJanik]

+Bryan Sheehy thank you so much!!!!! I've got plenty videos planned for the immediate future! Just finished my fall semester at university and have a few weeks off now, going to go on a video frenzy and produce as much content as possible!

[@akira86chan]

Wow. Thanks for the infos about this awesome camera.

[@ming6398]

I'm gonna get a XA soon! It's gonna be my first venture into photography and I was hoping you could do a video on some sort of intro to photography as a whole? Loving the videos Mike! Thanks :)

[@MikeJanik]

+Marcus Che I'd actually dissuade you from grabbing the XA as your first camera. You can't control shutter speed with it and you consequently lose control over one-third of the exposure triangle. Get an all manual camera, maybe a K1000 or Spotmatic or SRT101, you'll have all the control you'll need and it'll carry you on for your first year as you start to learn the ins and outs of film photography!

[@mattstolzman]

Wow, great review Mike. I'm waiting for more. Subscribed

[@DVLinden]

What film are you using for the sample pictures man?

[@MikeJanik]

Kodak Ektar for all the sample photos!

[@backtoids]

I had an xa2 but I sold it because I couldnt get sharp shots on it. little did I know that the lens only needed cleaning. am currently in the market again. if u buy one never let this camera go

[@MikeJanik]

Well said, my guy. Keep your eyes peeled and I'm sure an XA will fall into your hands eventually! Best of luck!

[@AthleticGirl1999]

I’ve only used digital cameras and now I want to move to film. I kinda wanna buy this camera now!

[@eg-g]

Thank you for the passion.

[@MikeJanik]

And thank you for the love!

[@TimothymakeupsDitzler]

love your vids man...killin it! keep that shit coming....go.

[@MikeJanik]

+Timothy “makeups” Ditzler plenty more on the way my G!

[@Jorgerauhltorres]

Dude love your videos man!! Just subscribed to you!

[@makandgeo4501]

perfect guy. we loved you.

[@michelkriek2382]

Very helpful review, many thanks! Passionate too btw. Waiting for mine to arrive, incl. flash and box. Praying that shutter is OK. ;)

[@MaxxwellTheLegend]

hey Mike, this is my 100th watch on this video. I bought the camera because of this video. since then it's been my partner whenever i leave my flat. fantastic companion all over the fucking world. how could you sell such a diamond? just being curious.

[@maddiepie13]

Mike! My boy! Sweet vid, you gotta make more!!!!!

[@MikeJanik]

Thank you for being a positive influence in my life and this whole KZbin thing!

[@InvisebleDork]

Thoughts on the OM-2?

[@MikeJanik]

Rad camera. Never used one, have wanted one for far too long. It gets a thumbs up from me!

[@PedroBarrosBra]

where did you get that shirt mannnn

[@MikeJanik]

+Pedro Barros Brasil sold out a loooooooooong time ago, real limited run of them, can't scoop them up anywhere anymore!

[@PedroBarrosBra]

+Mike Janik :(((((

[@gabylon0]

Nice video! I wouldn't ever call it a baby Leica only because it's a rangefinder, though!

[@MikeJanik]

+Gabriel Sanz that's fair enough man, still an absolutely fantastic little camera though!