Many people are familiar with the sight of a DSLR, or a fully automatic sensor system built into mirrorless cameras. Digital cameras have of course become a mainstay in photography culture.
However, before the development of the DSLR and other digital shooting devices there was the SLR, the instant point and shoot, and the 35mm film camera. All these cameras have been surpassed but in recent years have started to make a comeback.
Plenty of photographers have recently decided to make the switch back towards analogue photography. The lack of autofocus and retro feel to the images you can capture has become as aesthetic trend in our culture.
With the outbreak of the smartphone almost everyone has a camera in their pocket ready to shoot a picture at any given moment. The insurgence of the smart phone is what has triggered the reactionary return of the vintage camera.
This list will detail a range of vintage cameras. We will be covering a host of cameras for a variety of different eras that performance a variety of different functions. If you’re thinking of the ditching the DSLR or want a retro camera to take out and shoot with – read on and find out the best vintage cameras you can find right now.
vintage Canon AE-1 Program 35mm SLR Camera
The vintage Canon AE-1 35mm SLR Camera with 50mm 1:1.8 Lens is the first camera on our best vintage list.
This camera is quintessentially vintage offering a retro aesthetic and feel. The camera looks distinctly retro with its wild bold shaped body and large lens. The major upside of this camera in comparison with other vintage models that are on the market is that this camera has both auto and manual modes.
Having the opportunity to choose between the two is a great added bonus for users of modern cameras. Most vintage cameras will either be fully automatic or full manual so this feature makes the Canon AE-1 truly different.
Beyond the cameras various settings, its great build quality and overall feel this camera offers everything a photographer could ask for from a vintage model. If you’re looking to purchase a vintage camera you will do well to find better than this model.
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Great for beginners.
- Auto and manual modes on this camera make it perfect for those that are used to shooting on more modern cameras.
- Vintage camera that offers distinctly modern features.
- Superb Canon quality.
- Even old models are still functioning extremely well with limited flaws known in the system.
- Wide aperture makes it great for low level light shooting and also adds depth to all of your images.
- The high aperture also helps to put your subject into focus more clearly when shooting your images.
- 35mm film is both cheap, readily available and really nice to shoot on.
- Get physical copies of your shots once you’ve got your film developed.
- Sturdy strong design.
Cons
- This camera is extremely heavy. Those that are used to shooting on modern cameras will find this difficult.
- For a vintage camera these models can be quite pricey. Great for someone who is looking to shoot film consistently, however, not the best option for someone looking for a basic point and shoot camera.
Vintage Argus C3 35mm Rangefinder Brick Camera
The Argus C3 35mm Rangefinder is a brick 35mm camera. This camera has a distinctly vintage aesthetic and feel from the 1970’s.
This camera is our best pick for those on a budget that want a great 35mm film camera. This vintage camera has a great ergonomic design that makes it both easy to handle and practical.
Its wide aperture and close up focus range mean that you’re able to take great shots wherever you are and whatever the occasion. This camera is shockingly cheap in comparison with other vintage models on the market.
You will shocked at how light and easy to carry this camera is in comparison with other models. If you’re a beginner, or you want a vintage camera to add your collection but you don’t want to break the bank – this is the camera for you. Offering a distinctly vintage feel with great design.
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Easy to use.
- Lightweight design.
- Ergonomically sound.
- Great built quality.
- Sturdy, robust and durable.
- 35mm film.
- Great shooting abilities thanks to the wide aperture and close up fiscal lens.
- Vintage feel.
- Will shoot great pictures even in low level light situations.
- Basic point and shoot.
- Easy to load film.
Cons
- Won’t take great shots of moving objects.
- Very basic.
- Not good for those wanting to experiment with 35mm film.
Polaroid Originals 4723 Polaroid 600 Camera
The next camera that has made our list is the Polaroid Originals 4723 Polaroid 600 Camera. This camera is the first on our list that hasn’t been a 35mm film camera. This camera is also the first on our list that is a remodelled vintage edition.
Polaroid Originals is a series by polaroid that is made to provide photographers with the same vintage feel and appearing cameras but with all the updated mods and cons of a more modern model.
Of course, this camera still functions like an old school Polaroid. The only difference being that the mechanics inside of the camera are modern. The Polaroid 4723 is an instant point and shoot camera. This means that moments after shooting your image you will receive a printed copy.
This is great fun and offers something different from traditional point and shoot cameras. The ability self process the photos adds another vintage feel to your shooting experience.
We picked this model for the list as it offers great all-round user experience but any of the Polaroid Originals series cameras will also provide you with great vintage feel cameras in an updated body.
Pros
- Original design in a rebuilt system.
- Instantly develops your shots.
- Great fun.
- This camera offers a vintage aesthetic without the hassle of buying a preloved camera.
- Includes a 1 year warranty.
- Comes with fixed focus lens.
- Simple, fun and easy to use.
- Can take up to 600 images and print them at the same time!
- Prints image.
- Smooth design.
- Protective body for durability.
Cons
- Limited shooting experience.
- Great for instant shooting but little else.
- Not a good option for wildlife, nature or adventure photographers wanting to snap landscapes.
Canon TL QL 35mm SLR Professional Vintage Film Camera
The Canon SLR 35mm TL QL is the final model on our list and this is another great 35mm film option for any 35mm aspiring shooters.
Most people enjoy this camera a lot and compliment its fun and easy use. Its also great value for money, sturdy and has stood the test of time. It offers a distinctly vintage Canon feel, perfect for those wanting a retro looking camera.
The great focal length that comes with this camera make it the perfect model for shooting anywhere and everywhere. If you’re keen to experiment with 35mm film then you should definitely check out his budget, vintage camera.
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Uses 35mm film.
- Distinctly vintage feel and appearance.
- Great focal length for a wide range of shooting possibilities.
- Focal length is excellent for portrait photograph.
- Variety of settings.
- Functions well in low level light situations.
- Customised aperture allows for greater experimentation whilst shooting.
Cons
- Heavy body.
- The design isn’t compact.
Halina Ansco Pix Flash 35mm Film Camera Vintage Point & Shoot
The Halina Ansco Pix Flash 35m Film Camera is the second camera on our list and this camera is a lot more modern looking than the Canon that we began with.
This camera is the obvious retro point and shoot snapper that will satisfy anyone who is looking for a vintage camera. It has that classic 90’s feel and aesthetic that takes great shots. Its so simple and easy to use those that have never loaded film with have no issues shooting with this camera.
This camera is great for most shooting but especially good for portrait photography and street snapping. The 28mm focal length coupled with the wide aperture and built in flash that is both automatic and manual makes this camera the perfect combination of versatile and useful.
Take great shots of your subjects and objects wherever you are with this trendy point and shoot from Halina.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Great for beginners with film.
- Shoots great quality pictures on 35mm film.
- 35mm film is reasonably priced, looks great and reflects tones superbly.
- On and off switch for the flash.
- Manual winding for more diversity.
- Frame counter for more connivence.
- Lightweight and extremely portable.
- Durable design that has stood the test of time.
- Great for portrait, street and subject shooting.
- Versatile and effective.
- Takes great shots in both light and dark. Situation.
Cons
- The main issue with this camera is that it is extremely limiting. Beyond the point and shoot function this camera offers little more for creative output.
- High shutter can cause light saturation.
Conclusion
This list has covered all of the best vintage cameras available on the market. We have looked at a wide range of cameras that offer users a wide range shooting abilities. If you’re looking for a vintage camera be sure to check the film your camera takes so you can shoot straight away.
Whether you’re on the hunt for. Reconditioned vintage polaroid instant point and shoot, or a lightweight 90’s 35mm this list has covered all the best options out there for you. Happy shooting!
