At a Glance
- Film photography is making a comeback after digital dominance.
- A guide shows how to choose a camera, buy film, and where to shop.
- Popular film brands include Kodak Gold 200 and Ilford HP5.
- Why it matters: Analog shooting offers a unique creative experience and is gaining social-media buzz.
After years of digital dominance, analog cameras are returning to the spotlight. This guide walks beginners through picking the right camera, selecting film, and finding trustworthy sellers.
Choosing the Right Camera
Cameras range from simple point-and-shoots to complex medium-format systems. Your choice depends on cost, ease of use, and the look you want.
Point-and-shoots are the quickest to start; vintage SLRs give a manual feel; modern SLRs combine automation with interchangeable lenses.
- Point-and-shoot: fixed lens, autofocus, auto settings. Typical cost $50-130 (Canon Prima Zoom) to $800-1,000 (Konica Hexar AF).
- Vintage SLR: manual, internal light meter, lenses often cheap. Examples: Canon AE1, Nikon F, Pentax K1000.
- Modern SLR: autofocus, interchangeable lenses, built-in light meter. Canon EOS 1000F costs $20-50.
- Medium-format: 120 film, more complex, higher cost. Hasselblad 500C, Mamiya 6.
- Large-format: 4″×5″ or 8″×10″, expensive, not for beginners.
- New film cameras: few options, e.g., Pentax 17 (half-frame) and Leica MP.
Where to Buy Cameras and Film
Used markets like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and local shops offer a wide selection, but buyers must check functionality before purchase.
Reputable resellers such as Kamerastore, KEH, and Adorama inspect and certify gear, providing peace of mind.
| Camera Type | Typical Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Point-and-shoot | $50-$1,000 | Autofocus, auto settings, fixed lens |
| Vintage SLR | $10-$200 | Manual, internal meter, interchangeable lenses |
| Modern SLR | $20-$50 | Autofocus, interchangeable lenses, built-in meter |
| Medium-format | $200-$2,000 | 120 film, manual controls, larger negatives |
| Large-format | $1,000-$10,000 | 4″×5″ or 8″×10″, manual focus, high resolution |
Picking the Film
Film comes in color or black-and-white, each with its own price and ISO range.
Color films like Kodak Gold 200 are affordable and ideal for daylight; high-speed films such as Ilford Delta 3200 enable handheld low-light shooting.
- Kodak Gold 200: classic warm tones, $10/roll, ISO 200.
- Kodak Portra 400 / 800: high quality, higher price.
- Harman Phoenix I/II: strong visual look, grainy.
- Harman Red: apocalyptic red tone.
- Ilford Delta 3200: black-and-white, ISO 3200, fast.
- Ilford HP5: solid contrast, ISO 400.
- Kentmere 400: cheaper alternative, ISO 400.
Key Takeaways
- Film cameras are regaining popularity for their unique creative process.
- Modern SLRs like the Canon EOS 1000F offer a smooth entry point.
- Choosing the right film depends on desired look and lighting conditions.
With the right camera and film, analog photography becomes a rewarding, hands-on experience that stands out from the instant world of digital.
