10 best vintage 35mm cameras

Vintage 35mm cameras are classic film cameras that use 35mm film rolls to capture images. These cameras were widely popular from the mid-20th century until the advent of digital photography. Here are some key points about vintage 35mm cameras:

  1. Film Format: Vintage 35mm cameras are designed to use 35mm film, which is a standard film format that produces images on a strip of film that is 35 millimeters wide. This format is known for its versatility and ease of use.

  2. Manual Controls: Most vintage 35mm cameras feature manual controls for settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and focus. Photographers had full control over exposure and creative options when using these cameras.

  3. Lens Interchangeability: Many vintage 35mm cameras have interchangeable lenses, allowing photographers to choose lenses with different focal lengths and characteristics to achieve specific photographic effects.

  4. Mechanical Operation: These cameras are often purely mechanical and do not rely on batteries for basic functionality. This makes them reliable and suitable for use in various conditions.

  5. Range of Styles: Vintage 35mm cameras come in a wide range of styles and designs, from compact and portable rangefinder cameras to larger and more robust single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras.

  6. Collectible Items: Some vintage 35mm cameras have become highly sought-after collector's items due to their historical significance and unique features. Brands like Leica, Nikon, Canon, and Pentax are known for their iconic vintage models.

  7. Film Variety: 35mm film came in various types and sensitivities (ISO/ASA ratings), allowing photographers to choose the right film for different lighting conditions and artistic preferences.

  8. Film Development: After capturing images with a vintage 35mm camera, photographers had to send the film to a lab for development and printing, which was a standard practice before digital photography.

  9. Resurgence of Interest: In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in film photography, including the use of vintage 35mm cameras. Many photographers and enthusiasts appreciate the unique qualities and aesthetics of film photography.

  10. Maintenance: Vintage 35mm cameras may require maintenance and occasional repairs due to their age.Finding a reliable camera technician who specializes in these cameras can be crucial for keeping them in working condition.

While vintage 35mm cameras are no longer the primary choice for most photographers, they hold a special place in the history of photography and continue to be cherished by enthusiasts and collectors for their timeless charm and unique image quality.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best vintage 35mm cameras on the market
  

Halina Ansco Pix Flash 35mm Film Camera Vintage Point & Shoot Focus Free (Smile Taker)

Based on 131 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ansco's line of fixed focus, 35mm film cameras are wonderful as a small film backup in your pro gear bag, or loaded with funky films for weddings and parties, or for beginner shooters dipping their toes in the film world. Their fixed apertures, 28mm lenses, and bright flashes mean almost everything is sharp and you can make a photo anywhere. The Smile Taker is as simple as a point-n-shoot camera can be. This plastic camera features a very sharp lens, a flash, and is wound manually. Its bright blue, yellow, and red motif screams 80’s nostalgia.



Specifications

  • 28mm lens

  • F/9.5 aperture

  • Fixed focus

  • Shutter Speed: ~1/100th / sec

  • Requires 35mm film (not included)

  • Requires 2-AA batteries (not included)

    • You will receive 1 camera
    • Manual-Winding
    • Flash with on/off switch
    • Frame counter
    • Light weight
  • User questions & answers

    Question: What does the orange light mean
    Answer: thats your flash indicator light ,it means that your flash is charged , and ready to fire .
    Question: i just dropped mine and the plastic over the flash broke, can i just tape it on? lol
    Answer: I don't see why not. It's a cheap little camera. Just use clear tape.
    Question: can you get the pictures you take on this camera to your phone or computer? and how
    Answer: No, I bought it as a present to a friend who likes the kind of camera. I don't have access to pictures.
    Question: Does this come with film and is it disposable
    Answer: film is not included, and no, it is not disposable. you can re-load film. just a plastic "toy" camera

    Product features

    Want to quench their thirst for knowledge?

    Nowadays, preschoolers spend hours and hours in front of the television screen. Toddlers are stuck to their tablets, glued to their computers, and completely distracted by all things digital. If you’re longing for a time when playtime was simple, innocent, and brimming with excitement and wonder, search no more. Finally, you can recreate the fun, educational experiences of yesteryear with the help of Young Hands.

    What You Get

    • 5 x Individual handheld block sets from Young Hands
    • Instructions for how to play safely and smartly
    • Infinite combinations of letters that form their favorite 3-letter words
    • Fast spinning action to excite their love of language
    • A sensational STEM toy for kids just learning the alphabet!

    Specs & Details

    • Spinning letter block size: 5” x 4.5” x 1.2” each
    • Total block sets: 5
    • Number of spinning blocks per set: 3
    • Material: smooth, durable, splinter-free wood
    • 100% safe, non-toxic & chemical-free
    • STEM & Montessori inspired
    • Recommended for boys & girls ages 3 and up [36 months and above]

    How to Enjoy

    • Give your child a handheld block set and help them spin to form words
    • Teach them definitions, pronunciations, synonyms and more
    • When they’re ready, use the other sets to form words and build phrases
    • Bring this STEM essential to school, on car trips, play dates and beyond!

    Twirl their way to higher learning!

    Now, kids can get their fingers moving, learn new words, and spend quality time with mom and dad with these unique 3D Educational Wooden Blocks. Covered in all 26 letters of the alphabet, our STEM-inspired toy is designed in collaboration with early childhood development experts, ensuring that your boys and girls acquire key skills in a way that’s both fun and stimulating. Encourage their fine motor function, hand-eye coordination, visual analysis skills, communication and social skills, problem solving, concentration, vocabulary and other abilities necessary for healthy development.

    Ready to spark their learning? Take this toy for a spin!

    Educational Reading Blocks Benefits

    Self-Esteem Boost

    Learning new words can be challenging and frustrating for kids, regardless of their academic level. Now, you can turn the tiresome process into a fun, entertaining game, all while giving your child a much-needed confidence boost.

    Educational Value

    Our fantastic phonetic reading blocks help kindergartners learn to pronounce and spell dozens of new words. As they play, they also develop fine-motor function, problem solving, hand-eye coordination and social skills.

    Perfect Gift Idea

    Surprise your son, daughter, nephew, niece, grandson, granddaughter or students with a fun, 3D alphabet block set, and watch them imagine, create, and construct new words in the most entertaining way possible!

    From daycare to the dictionary!

    Our Montessori Letter Blocks Set includes everything little ones need to start spelling straight out the box:

    • 5 x Sets of Wooden Reading Blocks
    • Dozens of possible word combinations
    • Easy instructions for finding words and learning fast!

    Safe & Non-Toxic

    Our big wooden alphabet blocks are not only non-toxic, and free from harmful colors and dyes, but they’re also 100% safe for your child’s skin. There are no sharp edges or splinters, so toddlers’ sensitive fingers are always protected.

    Non-Slip Handles

    Our lowercase letter reading blocks are specifically designed for young children’s growing fingers; ergonomic handles are non-slip and small enough to grip, giving even the littlest learners a leg up on the spelling bee competition!

    Fun For The Whole Family

    Just grab a spinning letter block and start creating new words with your kids! Turn this engaging game into a bonding experience for siblings, friends, parents and so much more. Spend quality time together while learning kindergarten fundamentals!

    Old-School Learning

    No need for costly batteries, electric outlets or chargers anymore. Our STEM Montessori reading blocks run on your child’s imagination and creativity! Give kids a break from the phones, tablets and TV, and embrace easy, alphabetical simplicity.

    Vintage Canon AE-1 Program 35mm SLR Camera with 50mm 1:1.8 Lens

    Based on 203 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    The Canon AE-1 Program is a 35 mm single-lens reflex camera that uses Canon's FD mount lenses. It was introduced in 1981 as the successor to the Canon AE-1, five years after that camera's introduction. The major difference was the addition of the Program AE mode first seen in the A-1. This mode sets both the shutter speed and aperture automatically, albeit with a slight bias towards the shutter speed setting. The user focuses the camera and then presses the shutter button. For those desiring more control, the AE-1's shutter priority auto-exposure and full manual modes are still available.

    • Classic mechanical Canon AE-1 Program camera body
    • LED light meter display
    • Compatible with all Canon FD lenses
    • This camera comes with a Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 lens

    User questions & answers

    Question: Hello! Are you able to ship it fir christmas
    Answer: If I ship it tomorrow, I think you can get it before Christmas.
    Question: Has this camera been tested out recently? Have you shot a roll from it
    Answer: I’ve shot a few rolls with it this year and they all came out great.
    Question: Is this a film camera or digital
    Answer: This is a film camera. Thanks for your interest.
    Question: What type of batteries does this type of camera need
    Answer: Duracell PX28LB 6V Lithium Battery

    Vintage Argus C3 35mm Rangefinder Brick Camera

    Based on 28 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Abtique range finder camera. Argus C3 a.k.a "The Brick"

    • 35mm film.
    • Brick film Camera.

    User questions & answers

    Question: How do you develop the film
    Answer: You can have your 35 mm film developed at most drug stores. Depending on the type of film you purchase slide, color prints, black and white prints allows for the final product. Of course the move to digital cameras it become a bit more difficult to find a place to develop your film.
    Question: does the flash and everything work
    Answer: Catherine, the camera does not have a built in flash. It is an add-on piece that attaches to the top of the camera. Otherwise, eerything else works just fine. I love mine.
    Question: hello wanted to know if tihs camera for black and white film
    Answer: This camera either black and white or color
    Question: Hello! Beautiful camera you're offering. Does it come with the case
    Answer: The one I bought didn't come with a case, may be other offers have

    VINTAGE CANON CANONET 28 35MM COMPACT FILM CAMERA WITH 40MM 2.8 LENS

    Based on 5 reviews Check latest price
    • VINTAGE CANON CANONET 28 35MM COMPACT
    • FILM CAMERA WITH 40MM 2.8 LENS

    User questions & answers

    Question: Do you offer a money back warranty
    Answer: I accept a return for a full refund within 2 weeks if the item has any issue.
    Question: hey im really interested in buying one of these but anyone ships to mexico
    Answer: if you can check out than it will ship to mexico. note there will be import taxes.
    Question: It still working
    Answer: If posted here on amazon, it should be in 100% working condition.
    Question: Is the glass cracked at the viewfinder and the piece next to it or is it just reflection from the picture
    Answer: Mine is in good condition without any crack.

    Canon TX 35mm Film Camera with Canon FD 50mm Lens

    Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Canon TX Camera with 50mm Lens

    • Canon TX Camera with 50mm Lens
    • Film camera vintage

    User questions & answers

    Question: What batteries does it need
    Answer: http://www.amazon.com/Duracell-Size-675-Hearing-Batteries/dp/B00009V2R5/ref=pd_sim_121_4?ie=UTF8&dpID=51Z8XDNCS8L&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=1308TCV2XFKMW0AM22HX You can use the camera without battery if you are using an incident meter or are skilled at guesstimating meter setting by looking at subject since the battery is only for powering the metering in the camera itself. Good luck, I love both my txs. Awesome old cameras. Love film. The old battery I was a mercury 625 I believe but I don’t know if they still make them.
    Question: Which film do you recommend for this camera
    Answer: Kodak 35mm color film (400 iso)
    Question: does it come with a lens
    Answer: yes it came with a canon FD 50mm lens
    Question: Is it digtal
    Answer: This camera is about. 50 years old. There were no digital cameras back then.
    Question: does ths have neck strap so i can carry around my neck
    Answer: Yes, but the strap that came with my camera had seen better days, so I’m invested in a new strap from Amazon.
    Question: Does this camera have a light meter
    Answer: yes it does

    Canon AE-1 35mm Film Camera w/ 50mm 1:1.8 Lens

    Canon

    Based on 701 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    AE-1 35mm SLR Manual Focus Camera (Chrome) with 50, , 35mm Cameras

    • 35mm SLR (Single-Lens-Reflex) camera with electronically controlled AE (Automatic Exposure) and focal plane shutter.
    • Canon FD series interchangeable lenses with full aperture metering and AE coupling. Canon FL series with stopped-down metering.
    • Standard lenses for the Canon AE are Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C, Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C, Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 S.C.
    • Canon Breech-Lock mount, Canon FD, FL and R lenses can be used. The viewfinder is fixed eye-level pentaprism with a field of view that is 93.5% vertical and 96% horizontal coverage of the actual picture
    • Viewfinder information includes aperture scale with meter needle and stopped-down metering which also serves as a battery charge level check mark.

    User questions & answers

    Question: Is there an option to get this with quicker shipping? Does it include a battery? want to buy today
    Answer: The holes are always open. The main function of this product is to quickly discharge the steam.
    Question: Is there a working light meter in this camera
    Answer: about 2.9 inch height (without consider handle)
    Question: Where is the light meter on this camera
    Answer: Thanks for you asking. That is 9 inch, but the 12 inch dome will be launched later.
    Question: Does the lens that comes with this camera have an Auto option or is it stricly manual? and does the Auto function work
    Answer: to hot

    Fujifilm QuickSnap Flash 400 Disposable 35mm Camera (Pack of 2)

    Fujifilm

    Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Fujifilm QuickSnap Flash 400 Disposable 35mm Camera (Pack of 2)

    • Disposable One-time-use camera in compact body
    • Very sharp pictures with a 10-foot built-in flash
    • Fun and easy to use
    • Great for taking pictures indoors or outdoors
    • Loaded with Superior X-TRA 400 film, 27 exposures

    User questions & answers

    Question: Does this have that loud click when a picture is taken
    Answer: Here are two ways you can charge the batteries: 1.You can directly charge the battery in the camera with the USB Cable. 2.You can buy the battery charger in our store through below link. Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074QFDP44
    Question: Why is this $30 now? That’s outrageous
    Answer: CT8500 doesn’t come with a chest mount. You need to buy one separately.
    Question: pack as title states or single camera
    Answer: If you normally use the camera with low resolution, one full battery for this can record up to maximum 90 minutes. If you record high resolution video together with the wifi on, the camera will be high loading and may not be able to least more than a hour.
    Question: How many pictures can it take
    Answer: Plastic . Very fragile .

    Holga 120N Medium Format Film Camera (Black) with Ilford HP5 120 Film Bundle and Microfiber Cloth

    Based on 78 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    One of the most iconic cameras available, the Holga 120N is characterized by the unique image quality it is able to produce, along with its modest design and minimal controls. Featured here with a black finish, the Holga is best known for its standard-length 60mm f/8 plastic lens that produces a soft, dream-like aesthetic, which is further accentuated by the inherent vignetting and light leaks caused by the plastic body and simple construction. A choice between f/8 or f/11, or "cloudy" and "sunny", aperture settings is available, along with 1/100 sec. or bulb shutter speed settings and a zone focus system for focusing as close as 3' away. A tripod mount is incorporated into the base of the camera for stable long exposure shooting and a top hot shoe accepts optional electronic flashes. A camera designed to bring the fun back to photography, the Holga is a classic camera capable of making some remarkable, yet inherently lo-fi photographs.



    The 120N model accepts 120-format roll film and includes both 6 x 4.5cm and 6 x 6cm inserts to record 16 or 12 exposures per roll, respectively. Film is manually advanced between shots using the top winding knob, with the frame progression checked using the rear red window.





    Plastic body construction and plastic lens contribute to the distinct image quality, which is characterized by light leaks, vignetting, and soft focus.

    Classic medium format camera accepts 120 roll film, and the included 6 x 4.5cm and 6 x 6cm film masks allow you to record either 16 or 12 frames per roll respectively.

    60mm f/8 lens provides a normal field of view for working in a wide variety of situations.

    Zone focusing system allows you to focus as closely as 3' away.

    A 1/100th sec. shutter speed setting is available in addition to a bulb setting for long exposure shooting.

    Standard 1/4"-20 tripod mount allows you to make stable long exposure photographs.

    Top hot shoe accessory mount allows you to attach

    • INCLUDES: Holga 120N Camera + Ilford HP5 Film + MicroFiber Cloth
    • Classic Toy Camera - 60mm f/8 Plastic Lens
    • Zone Focusing System - Shutter Speeds: 1/100 sec. and Bulb
    • Aperture Settings: f/8 or f/11 - Hot Shoe and Tripod Mount
    • Uses 120 Roll Film - Includes 6 x 4.5cm and 6 x 6cm Masks

    User questions & answers

    Question: How does the holga n compare to the holga sf
    Answer: No, sorry. All our books are printed on thick white cardstock-quality paper.
    Question: How do you develop the pictures
    Answer: The pages are square - 8.5 inches by 8.5 inches (actually just a bit under 8.5).

    Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera Color Negative 400 Film

    Lomography

    Based on 424 reviews Check latest price
    • Preloaded with Color Negative 400 Film for classic analogue character
    • Built-in flash & color gel filters to mix and match
    • Perfect for beginners, parties, weddings, making memories
    • Get your pictures developed at any photo lab
    • Reload and Keep Shooting – unlike usual disposable cameras

    User questions & answers

    Question: Does it come with film for the first use after buying
    Answer: Hello - This Ella's tub requires a 15 amp dedicated circuit for installation. If you need a spec sheet to plan for your project, contact us through Amazon or via our customer service at 518 952 1375 Thanks BathTubsPlus
    Question: Whats the difference between this and the other color lomography cameras
    Answer: Hi, it has an inline friction heater that maintains the water temperature. We can send a spec sheet to help plan for your project. Contact us through Amazon or via our customer service at 518 952 1375.
    Question: Do you have to reload the film in a darkroom
    Answer: Hello - The tile flange is built into this tub. If you need a spec sheet to help you plan for this project, contact us through Amazon or via our customer service at 518 952 1375 Thanks! BathTubsPlus
    Question: How many pictures does it take
    Answer: Hi, unfortunately, they are not included. We can send you a spec sheet to help plan for your project, contact us through Amazon or via our customer service at 518 952 1375.

    Product features

    Analogue Madness at Your Disposal

    “Champion of film Lomography has made exploring the 35mm format that much more accessible today, though, launching super-cheap cameras, preloaded with its dreamy films, that even the most inexperienced of photographers can easily get to grips with.” —Engadget

    Analogue Made Easy

    Our Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera are preloaded with film so you can start shooting straight away – it's perfect for beginners!

    Pick between four different film options to give your shots analogue character, whether at a party, wedding, on a road trip or more.

    Mix & Match the Color Gel Filters

    Compact and equipped with a built-in flash, you can capture the good times everywhere you go, whenever you want. Add a colourful twist to your photographs with yellow, magenta, and cyan flash filters. Mix and match these colors to produce six different hues for psychedelic color shifts.

    Reload and Keep Shooting

    35 mm being the most common film format on the market, it's super easy to get your film developed at any local lab or drugstore.

    But once you're done, keep your camera! You can easily reload it with any 35 mm film.

    Color Negative 400

    Preloaded with our Color Negative 400 for classic analogue character.

    Black & White

    Preloaded with our Lady Grey B&W Film for moody shots filled with fine grain and rich monochrome tones.

    LomoChrome Purple

    Preloaded with LomoChrome Purple, for violet color shifts: green will turn purple, yellow will turn pink and red tones will be vibrant.

    LomoChrome Metropolis

    Preloaded with LomoChrome Metropolis Film, for stark color shift contrasts and muted tones with #Nofilter needed.

    Holga 120 WPC Panoramic Pin Hole Camera Wide Format Film Lomo Camera Black

    Holga

    Based on 38 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Accessories Included:

    1 Carrying strap

    1 Frame Size Mask of 6x12 cm

    1 Frame Size Mask of 6x9 cm

    Being a pinhole camera, as light doesn’t have to pass through any lens, the images taken will have below characteristics:

    (a) no optical distortion whatsoever to the image;

    (b) no need to focus;

    (c) the angle of the view will be much wider.

    Having a greatly extended body, the camera enjoys a super wide panoramic view with the horizontal exposure angle reaching as wide as 120 °. Depending on which of the two Film Size Frames is used, the width of the film for the picture taken can either be 90mm or 120mm.

    With special feature of multiple-exposures effect, it will provide more latitude for the photographer to try out his/her imagination. This makes photographing more enjoyable and brings one surprises.

    As longer exposure time is needed for pin-hole cameras, it’s necessary to mount the camera on a tripod as well as use a Shutter Release Cable (they are not included). For the convenience, there is an exposure table on the back of the camera body to provide some reference for deciding the length of exposure time needed according to the condition of the weather or time of day.

    Let us return to the original nature and record every different and precious moment by using Holga camera!

    • Pinhole Exposure: It lets light pass through the pin hole, to hit the film directly, causing exposure without passing through any lens.
    • Panoramic View: The camera enjoys a super wide panoramic view with the horizontal exposure angle reaching as wide as 120 degree. Aperture: F133.
    • Film to Use: Accommodate all 120 format films. The use of exposure speed ASA 100 films on sunny days and ASA 400 on cloudy days or indoor occasions is recommended.
    • Two different Frame Size Masks: one is for 8 frames of 6x9 cm each per roll and another is for 6 frames of 6x12 cm each per roll.
    • Multiple-Exposures Effect: As the film is advanced manually, the camera can help achieve special effects through multiple exposures by NOT advancing the film after a frame has been exposed. Each depression of the Shutter Release Button will bring about another exposure.

    User questions & answers

    Question: What's the best film for the camera I can get
    Answer: There is no easy answer but if you like wildlife or sports photography the D500 would be a better choice. For landscape and architectural photography I would take the D750. The D500 has an incredible buffer which allows you to shoot 200 photos at one time, the latest Nikon autofocus and exposure features and 4k video and if you already have DX lenses they will work great on the D500 but not so well on the D750. I use both FX and DX cameras and both have their pros and cons. Your choice should be based on what kind of photography you plan on doing.
    Question: Where can I get a strap for it
    Answer: No but if the cost is keeping you away from it, do not buy the camera. I highly recommend one. So much faster and the jpgs are about 15MB so sd card starts bogging down.
    Question: where can you get the film developed
    Answer: The one that I received was a European model. I thought about returning it but if I needed repairs It Isn’t covered under the Nikon warranty either way . The D850 I received was in mint condition and worked flawlessly.

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