After quite some time searching for decent 35mm new film cameras, you too might have realised that they are harder to come by than their used counterparts. This perhaps could have something to do with film cameras being around for well over a century compared to the best digital cameras available today - leading to an influx in second-hand film cameras. But what if you wanted a film camera completely new, never used, sparkly clean and full of sheen?
From single-use, DIY, and reusable cheaper film cameras to film cameras with fixed lens direct vision, interchangeable lens and TLR options, we cover them all. And, to anyone who thinks that film cameras aren’t still being made, you’re wrong!
Are film cameras worth it?
There is a reason why analogue photography still exists and to many, it will always remain their preferred choice. Why? There is something truly unique about it that words, even professional photographers, cannot describe. Every device may have its downsides, but it’s the authenticity, spontaneity and richness in colour that really draws us in. The ability to shoot an object or moment, not knowing what was fully captured, but finding yourself pleasantly surprised and in love with whatever came out of it. No matter how raw, true, and imperfect your shots might be.
Whether you are a beginner or enthusiast, if this sounds like something you would like to pursue, here are seven 35mm best film camera options to get your interest in analogue started:
The best 35mm film cameras
Want a B&W stress-free instant film camera to shoot your friends for the first time out of lockdown? This llford XP2 Super Single Use Camera with a flash has 27 beautiful exposures. With a 400 ISO, it's the perfect accessory for all lighting conditions.
| <strong>Type:</strong> | Single Use |
| <strong>Lens:</strong> | 30mm f/9.5 |
| <strong>Mode:</strong> | Auto |
| <strong>Suitable for:</strong> | Beginners |
If coloured film is perhaps more your style, this Kodak Single Use FunSaver Camera is a great care-free option for all beginners wanting to document their fun. Coming with 39 exposures and an ISO of 400, it's the number one bestseller on Amazon for a reason.
| <strong>Type:</strong> | Single Use |
| <strong>Lens:</strong> | 30mm f/10 |
| <strong>Mode:</strong> | Auto |
| <strong>Suitable for:</strong> | Beginners |
For any amateur photographer or film enthusiast who is wanting to try a device they can experiment on over more than one roll of film, this AgfaPhoto Analogue camera is a great buy. Coming with 36 exposures and a roll of film to get you started, the camera is easy to use and suitable for a variety of films (with an ISO of 200, 400, and 800). With its own little bag and strap included, this is another necessity for the road!
| <strong>Type:</strong> | Re-usable point and shoot |
| <strong>Lens:</strong> | 31mm f/9 |
| <strong>Mode:</strong> | Auto |
| <strong>Suitable for:</strong> | Beginners to enthusiasts |
Who says you can't make your own best 35mm film camera? This DIY Lomography Konstruktor F is a great experiment for any film enthusiast. You won't just be able to explore your own film style, but actually see how the full analogue experience is constructed. Easy to put together, this film camera gives you a 1/80 second shutter, more suitable for daytime.
| <strong>Type:</strong> | DIY Plastic SLR |
| <strong>Lens:</strong> | 50mm f/10 |
| <strong>Mode:</strong> | Manual |
| <strong>Suitable for:</strong> | Enthusiasts |
The Vintage Camera Hut Canon A-1 35mm Film Camera is the best device for anyone wanting to take a step up in their analogue photography. Being an original piece from the late 1970s, this interchangeable lensed film camera really can produce some extraordinary images but comes at an expensive price tag (£400).
| <strong>Type:</strong> | SLR |
| <strong>Lens:</strong> | 50mm f/1.8 |
| <strong>Mode:</strong> | Manual |
| <strong>Suitable for:</strong> | Intermediates to Advanced |
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If you are interested in trying a TLR film type, the Lomo Lubitel 166+ Camera is highly recommended. Suitable for both 35mm and 120 film, it allows you to shoot like an analogue master through being a recreation of the classic Russian twin lens medium-format cameras. A step up in price (£289), this manual camera gives you more flexibility in aperture and shutter speeds and produces stunning images.
| <strong>Type:</strong> | TLR |
| <strong>Lens:</strong> | 75mm f/4.5 |
| <strong>Mode:</strong> | Manual |
| <strong>Suitable for:</strong> | Beginners to enthusiasts |
Lomo also have a brilliant LC-Wide 35mm Film Camera suitable for any keen analogue enthusiast after a very wide film style with it's expansive 17mm ultra-wide lens. The 35mm automatic camera also has zone-focusing and auto-exposure of the LC-A, making it a dream to work with. Coming at a slightly higher cost (£329), you get the choice between a full, square, or half format for your shots. As well as a large ISO range, it really will bring a whole new lomographic dimension to your photography.
| <strong>Type:</strong> | Fixed Lens Direct Vision |
| <strong>Lens:</strong> | 17mm f/4.5 |
| <strong>Mode:</strong> | Auto |
| <strong>Suitable for:</strong> | Enthusiasts |
All of these 35mm film cameras have been hand-selected by What's The Best shopping experts. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching, so you can choose the best one. Plus, we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in. Find out why you should trust us here.
Emily Farquhar is a Commercial Content Writer for WhatsTheBest, and also writes for Yours.co.uk, heatworld and Closer across beauty, tech, and lifestyle.
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