A good film camera is a great investment for any photography buff, whether you’re a beginner or a professional looking to expand your collection.
We researched dozens of film cameras, evaluating ease of use, portability, and image quality. Our top pick, the Canon EOS Rebel 2000 35mm Film SLR Camera, is a durable, easy-to-use instant film camera that produces high-quality photos with a retro look.
Here are the best SLR film cameras.
Best Slr Film Cameras: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Slr Film Cameras Reviews
- 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.
- 35mm Film Format: The Rebel 2000 uses standard 35mm film, providing compatibility with a wide range of film types and offering the classic film photography experience.
- Autofocus System: It features a 7-point autofocus system, which helps in achieving accurate and quick focus on subjects, even in challenging shooting conditions.
- Built-In Flash: The camera includes a built-in pop-up flash, which can be used for additional lighting in low-light situations or as a fill flash to soften shadows.
- Exposure Modes: Program AE, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual Mode
- Film Transport: It features automatic film loading, advancing, and rewinding, simplifying the process of handling film.
- The Pentax K1000 35mm SLR is one of photography's greatest, most popular and longest-lived cameras.
- This Pentax film camera is completely mechanical and needs no battery to run, however, you must purchase an A76 cell battery to run the light meter.
- Unlike other SLR and DSLR cameras, the K1000 is simple and has little to no learning curve. There is three shooting controls: aperture, shutter speed and focus. You set the film speed when you load it.
- An extraordinary simple camera that forces you to think about your picture instead of your camera. As a result, it's recommended by most photography teachers, instructors, and professors to be used in their classes.
- The Pentax K1000 is so brilliant that you never need to turn the meter or camera on or off: both are always on for instant picture taking
- Autofocus 35mm SLR with full manual options
- 28 to 80mm Zoom lens included
- Retractable built-in flash
- 7-Point autofocus system
- 35-Zone exposure sensor
- Design and Build: The OM-10 follows the design philosophy of the OM series, which emphasizes compactness and portability. It has a small, lightweight body compared to many other SLRs of its time, making it convenient for travel and everyday use.
- Viewfinder: The camera features a bright and clear viewfinder with a split-image rangefinder and microprism collar, aiding in accurate focusing.
- Exposure Control: The OM-10 is primarily designed as an aperture-priority automatic exposure camera. This means that users can select the desired aperture, and the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed to achieve proper exposure. It does not have full manual exposure control, which sets it apart from other cameras in the OM series.
- Light Metering: The OM-10 uses a TTL (Through-The-Lens) center-weighted metering system for accurate exposure readings. This system helps in achieving well-exposed photographs even in challenging lighting conditions.
- Lens Compatibility: The OM-10 is compatible with Olympus OM-series lenses, known for their excellent optical quality and compact size. These lenses cover a wide range of focal lengths and apertures, catering to various photographic needs.
Best Slr Film Cameras Buying Guide
Before choosing the best SLR film camera you should consider the following options:
1. Image Quality: When looking at film cameras, image quality is similar to digital. Faster films mean less grain, and therefore clearer images. ISO 400 and 800 films are some of the most popular for street photography.
2. Battery: Battery life is very important to consider as film cameras don’t have a built-in power source. You’ll need to purchase a new battery and charger along with your camera.
3. Lens Compatibility: If you plan on using only the kit lens that comes with your camera, you can ignore this. However, if you want to expand your lens collection, make sure the camera has a mount compatible with the lens you already own or plan to purchase.
4. Manual Features: Most film cameras do not have many manual features, but some do. If you enjoy photography and want to expand your understanding of the craft, opt for a camera that has more manual features.
5. Price: Film cameras are not as expensive as they used to be. You can get a decent camera for around $100.
6. Weight: A camera that’s lightweight is important, especially if you plan on taking a lot of photos on the go. Check the specs to see how heavy the camera is before purchasing.
7. ISO Range: Film ISO ratings are similar to digital ISO. The lower the ISO number, the lighter the film can handle. If you plan on taking photos in low light conditions, look for a camera with a higher ISO range.
What else you should know about the best SLR film cameras
1. What are the best SLR film cameras?
Some of the best SLR film cameras include the Canon EOS Rebel, the Nikon D5500, and the Sony Alpha a6000.
2. What are the features of a good SLR film camera?
Some features that may be considered important in a good SLR film camera include a fast shutter speed, a wide range of aperture settings, and the ability to interchange lenses.
3. What are the different types of SLR film cameras?
35mm SLR, Medium Format SLR, Large Format SLR
4. How do I choose the right SLR film camera for me?
The best way to choose the right SLR film camera for you is to determine what you want to use the camera for. If you are a professional photographer, you will need a camera that is able to take high-quality photos. However, if you are an amateur photographer, you can get by with a less expensive camera. Once you know what you need the camera for, you can then start to narrow down your choices.
5. How do I use an SLR film camera?
To use an SLR film camera, you will need to load the film into the camera and then wind the film until it is tight. Once the film is tight, you will need to cock the shutter and then press the shutter release button.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best SLR film cameras. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best slr film cameras will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.