How to Know the Best Beginner Film Camera for You

As a beginner in film photography, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what kind of analogue camera to start out with. At the end of the day, it's best to seek out the type of camera suitable for you in terms of your needs and personality.

In this tipster, we're asking you a few questions to help you figure out the best beginner camera for you. Let's get into it!

How much are you willing to shell out?

We start with a very practical and essential question! There are many cheaper options when buying film cameras compared to digital, especially secondhand ones.

Still, development and scanning costs can also add up depending on the format and film stock you're using, so when considering which beginner film camera to explore, it's important to take note of the financial costs that come with the craft.

Which format is suitable for you?

For example, processing and development for the smallest format available in the market right now, 110, can cost a bit more since not all film labs offer processing services for it anymore. Still, with this tiny format you're guaranteed to get your shots, leaving no room for blank rolls. Many analogue shooters love to shoot 110 for its grain, beginner-friendly functions, pocketable size and more.

Meanwhile, the bigger 120 format which many consider to be for more serious film shooters, can also incur higher prices in terms of film development and scanning, mainly because you only get 12 - 16 shots per roll of this format. Comparatively, 110 film has 24 shots while 35 mm film can have 36 shots (or up to 72 shots if we're talking about a half-frame 35 mm camera like the Lomourette.)

The standard 35 mm (which is the format you will most likely first be acquainted with when starting film), is a good starting point for many shooters, as many 35 mm film stocks are still being produced, with a few new cameras such as the LomoApparat being launched the past few years.

So, do you have any ideas so far as to what format makes more sense for you?

How important is convenience?

Another question to ask is how you want to treat your film camera. Do you want a go-to buddy, a small companion you can keep in your bag without it taking a lot of space, and that you can conveniently whip out when whim takes hold of you? Then perhaps point-and-shoot cameras in the 110 or 35 mm formats are the perfect fit. Cameras like the Simple Use Camera, Lomomatic 110, LomoApparat and Lomo LC-A+, or the Yashica T5, Olympus AF-10, Olympus MJU ii, can easily fit into your pocket or bag for easy shooting.

Meanwhile, if you're a more serious shooter who wants control, doesn't mind the bulk, and is into the classic film camera look, some cameras that are built like a brick and are still trusted to perform decades after they were initially manufactured include the Nikon FE, Pentax K1000, Olympus OM-1, and Canon AE-1. Many of these powerhouses could be a bit on the higher price range in the secondhand market (as they're coveted by many film photographers) but they're surely built to last and are used by many professionals.

In the 120 format, there are the Pentax and Mamiya cameras. Also available are the LC-A 120 and Holga which are more lightweight and built with a few creative functions such as multiple exposure.

What's your style?

Are you a perfectionist who's in it to learn the ins and outs of film photography, careful to follow the different types of compositions, and make the most out of your frames? Or, perhaps you're experimental, choosing to accept "mistakes" such as light leaks or grain.

Are you the kind who's fascinated by multiple exposure shots, and using different kinds of photography accessories such as a kaleidoscope lens and a splitter? Then maybe creative cameras such as the Diana cameras, Lomo LC-A+, La Sardina, Sprocket Rocket, or the Lomo'Instant Wide Glass for instant photography are right up your alley.

There's a whole world of cameras out there and along your film journey you will surely be acquainted with many of them, but when starting with film it's important to consider these few questions as you find your own footing in the world of film!

Do you have more beginner-friendly tips for choosing cameras? Share it with us below!

written by sylvann on 2024-12-18 #gear #tutorials #tipster #beginner #beginner-film-cameras