For nearly 30 years, I’ve been deeply immersed in the world of photography. Twenty of those years have been spent as a professional, and throughout my journey, I’ve shot and tested dozens of cameras.
As someone who’s always been attracted to the beauty of landscape photography, I’ve found that nothing quite compares to the experience of shooting with an old-school 35mm film camera. There’s a tactile quality and artistry to film that digital simply can’t replicate.
By far, one of my favorite cameras to this day is the Canon AE1. It’s a camera that holds a special place in my heart for its balance of simplicity and functionality. Today, I want to share details about that camera and others in a list of the best 35mm film cameras that, in my opinion, stand out from the rest. Each camera has its own strengths, and while the Canon AE1 tops my list, the rest offer unique features that are worth considering for any film enthusiast.
Table of Contents
- The Best 35mm Film Camera: Canon AE-1
- Nikon F3
- Leica M6
- Best 35mm Film Camera: Pentax K1000
- Olympus OM-1
- Minolta X-700
- Best 35mm Film Camera: Contax T2
- Yashica T4
- Nikon FM2
- Best 35mm Film Camera: Canon EOS 1V
- Final Thoughts About the Best 35mm Film Cameras
The Best 35mm Film Camera: Canon AE-1
There’s a reason why the Canon AE1 is first on this list, and it’s not just because it’s my personal favorite, and I’m looking at it as I’m writing this!
Released in 1976, the Canon AE-1 was revolutionary for being the first camera to include a microprocessor, making it more affordable and accessible to amateur photographers. Yet, despite its advanced technology for the time, it remains a simple, reliable workhorse.
What makes it stand out for me is its Program AE (automatic exposure) mode, which takes care of exposure, allowing me to focus more on composition—crucial when I’m deep into a landscape shoot. Its sturdy build, bright viewfinder, and simple controls make it perfect for anyone wanting to dive into film photography. Plus, the FD lenses available for the AE-1 are top-notch, offering crisp, high-quality images even by today’s standards.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, the Canon AE1 is a camera that’s easy to fall in love with. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and function, and in my opinion, it’s the best 35mm film camera you can own.
Nikon F3
Photo by Matt Bero on Unsplash (license)
Another legendary camera in the world of 35mm film is the Nikon F3. Released in 1980, the F3 was Nikon’s first professional camera to feature an electronically controlled shutter. What I love about this camera is its durability—it was built like a tank and could withstand the harshest conditions, making it ideal for those long landscape photography treks.
The F3 offers manual and aperture-priority modes, giving photographers more control. It also features one of the brightest viewfinders of any 35mm film camera, which is a huge advantage when shooting in low-light conditions.
The Nikon F3 is a favorite among many professionals and hobbyists alike because of its rugged build, precision, and longevity. While I shoot Canon today, a little fun fact is that the first 25 years of my photography were done predominantly with a Nikon in my hand.
Leica M6
Photo by Patrick Langwallner on Unsplash (license)
When talking about the best 35mm film cameras, it’s impossible not to mention the Leica M6. This rangefinder camera, introduced in 1984, has become synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. As a landscape photographer, I find the M6’s portability and quiet operation to be ideal for serene, undisturbed moments.
While the Leica M6 lacks some of the automation of the Canon AE-1, it makes up for it with its unmatched optical quality. The Leica lenses, particularly their Summicron series, are renowned for their sharpness, color rendition, and bokeh. If you’re looking for an all-manual camera with a luxurious feel and the ability to produce stunning images, the Leica M6 might be your best 35mm film camera choice.
Best 35mm Film Camera: Pentax K1000
No list of 35mm film cameras would be complete without the Pentax K1000…
What’s funny is that out of all the film cameras I have tested over the years, the two that I own today are my beloved Canon AE-1 and a Pentax K1000. It’s often recommended as a starter camera, but don’t let that fool you—this camera is capable of incredible results. Released in 1976, the K1000 is the epitome of simplicity, featuring fully manual controls and a match-needle exposure system.
The K1000 has a reputation for being nearly indestructible, and its affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of photographers. Its fully manual operation forces you to really learn the fundamentals of photography, which I find rewarding when I want to slow down and focus on the technical aspects of capturing a landscape.
Olympus OM-1
Photo by E Magnuson. CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Compact, lightweight, and beautifully designed, the Olympus OM-1 is a beloved choice among photographers who need a camera that’s easy to carry but still packs a punch. Launched in 1972, this camera is part of Olympus’s effort to create a system that is much smaller and lighter than the competition at the time.
What really stands out about the OM-1 is its large, bright viewfinder and quiet shutter, which is perfect for photographing peaceful landscapes. The all-mechanical operation (with the option to use a battery for the meter) ensures that this camera will keep working even when modern electronics fail.
Minolta X-700
Photo by Frank Markesteijn. CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Minolta X-700, introduced in 1981, is often considered one of the best manual focus cameras ever made. With its Program AE, Aperture Priority, and full manual modes, the X-700 is versatile enough for both beginners and experienced photographers. It was highly advanced for its time, with features like TTL (through-the-lens) metering and a bright, easy-to-use viewfinder.
The X-700 also boasts a variety of accessories and lenses, making it a great system to invest in if you’re looking to explore different styles of photography. While not as widely celebrated as the Canon AE1 or Nikon F3, the Minolta X-700 is an underrated gem in the world of 35mm film.
Best 35mm Film Camera: Contax T2
Photo by Lordcolus from Taoyuan country, Taiwan. CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
For those who prioritize portability without sacrificing image quality, the Contax T2 is a solid option. This compact 35mm film camera is beloved for its premium build and sharp Carl Zeiss lens. Released in 1990, the Contax T2 is a point-and-shoot with a cult following—partly due to its ease of use and partly because it produces outstanding images.
The T2 is fully automatic, but the aperture priority mode allows you to exercise some creative control. It’s one of the best options for anyone looking to carry a film camera everywhere they go without the bulk of an SLR. For landscape photography on the go, the Contax T2 delivers in both form and function.
Yashica T4
Photo by George Rex from London, England. CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Another point-and-shoot that’s worth considering is the Yashica T4, especially if you’re after a camera that balances simplicity with high-quality images. The T4 gained popularity because of its sharp Carl Zeiss lens, compact design, and weatherproof build. It’s a favorite among street photographers and casual shooters alike.
While it’s fully automatic, what sets the T4 apart is its ability to capture crisp, vibrant images in virtually any condition. For those who want an affordable, pocketable option, the Yashica T4 deserves its spot among the best 35mm film cameras.
Nikon FM2
Photo by Johan from Turku / Åbo (from Ostrobothnia), Finland. CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Nikon FM2 is a fully mechanical, manual focus camera that has earned its place in the hearts of many film photographers. Introduced in 1982, it’s known for its durability, reliability, and precision. With a shutter speed of up to 1/4000th of a second, the FM2 is one of the fastest cameras of its time, making it excellent for action shots and fast-moving landscapes.
Because it’s fully mechanical, the FM2 doesn’t rely on batteries to operate, a significant advantage when you’re out in remote locations. The Nikon FM2 is a solid choice for those who want full control over every aspect of their shot.
Best 35mm Film Camera: Canon EOS 1V
Photo by pointnshoot. CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Closing out the list of the best 35mm film cameras is the Canon EOS 1V, one of the last professional 35mm SLRs made by Canon before the transition to digital. This camera came out in 2000. It’s a highly advanced film camera that integrates many features found in modern digital SLRs, including fast autofocus, weather sealing, and compatibility with Canon’s EF lenses.
What makes the EOS 1V particularly interesting is that it offers the benefits of modern technology while still delivering the distinct look and feel of film. If you’re a photographer who wants to bridge the gap between the old and new, this camera might just be your best option.
Final Thoughts About the Best 35mm Film Cameras
In a world dominated by digital technology, the charm and quality of 35mm film cameras still resonate with many photographers, myself included. Each camera on this list brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the innovative features of the Canon AE-1, the precision of the Nikon FM2, or the luxurious craftsmanship of the Leica M6.
If you’re looking to invest in a 35mm film camera, consider what features are most important to you. Whether it’s manual control, portability, or durability, there’s a camera on this list that will meet your needs. And for me, the Canon AE1 remains the best 35mm film camera of all time.
