Film photography has retained its popularity despite the advent of digitaltechnology. It offers a unique texture and visual quality that cannot be replicated by modern alternatives. We’ve gathered the best film cameras in one place, suitable for enthusiasts at any level — from experienced users to novices who are just beginning to explore the analog medium.
When evaluating modern film cameras, the first criteria that come to mind are their accuracy, durability, and ability to produce exceptional images. These handpicked models are the epitome of craft skills and excellence and have been chosen so you can make the right purchase when it comes to buying a film camera.
Updated on July 19, 2025, by Sai Vsr:Sometimes the 35mms are not big enough, and the larger formats are, well, too large. Which is where our trusty ole medium formats come in. In this update we bring you the Fujifilm GFX100 II. Read more about it below.
Fujifilm GFX100 II
Just the right dimensions.
Featuring eight stops of in-body stabilization, a brilliant 9.44 million-dot EVF, and a 102MP BSI CMOS sensor, the GFX100 II is a brilliant option for those in the market for a medium format film cam.
If you are a seasoned veteran who wants to up your filmcam game a little bit and also venture into the medium format side of things, boy do we have good news for you. Well, a good camera. The GFX100 II has a crazy good 102MP 43.8 x 32.9mm BSI CMOS sensor, which goes toe to toe with the resolution of its predecessorwhileextending the native ISO down to 80andboosting dynamic range to an impressive 14+ stops when you’re on 16-bit RAW.
The new X-Processor 5 also gives you snappier performance across the board and the redesigned 5-axis in-body stabilization is now rated for avery effective8 stops of compensation. This enables remarkably sharp handheld shooting even in low light situations. Cherry on top? The Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode can come out with 400MP images while giving you some incredible detail.
Autofocus got a major bump up as well, thanks to improved algorithms and subject detection that now recognizes humans, animals, birds, cars, trains and more. Continuous shooting rates hit a fast 8 fps with AF-C. And then there’s your ergonomic refinements, like the stunning 9.44-million-dot EVF with 1.0x magnification, or even the larger top LCD and redesigned grip wrapped in plush leather further, which make your shooting sessions just a little more breezy.
The only downside being that it’s so expensive, you need that Bruce Wayne type of money to buy it. What we can say, though, is that it definitely exceeds the performance you would usually find on digital backs that cost a heck of a lot more than this (as long as you know how to work it, of course).
Olympus OM-1 Mirrorless Camera
The Art of Clarity
The Olympus OM-1 is a mirrorless camera with a 20.4 MP sensor, lightning-fast autofocus, dual SD card slots, and muscular image stabilization encased in an incredibly robust, weather-protection body for the professional photographer.
The Olympus OM-1 isa great beginner camera. With its 20.4 MP sensor, the image quality will be distinct with all the scenes' textures. The autofocus is high speed, and the camera has a dual-slot for microSD cards that keeps precious images safe and secure.
The OM-1’s stabilization ensures sharp images, even if your hands shake. This camera’s rugged construction eliminates weather issues, so, whether it rains or shines, you can hit the road, making sure your photography adventure never hits pause. As much as it is expensive, it’s ideal for userswho take their photography seriouslywithout escalating the weight of their gear.
Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera
Film-Savvy, Wallet-Happy
Power through every film roll with the even, sleek, pocket-sized Ektar H35. Those who are just starting and those who prefer analog photography are the audience for this camera. It provides twice as many frames per roll and a built-in flash for easy shooting.
This pocket-friendly camera is the perfect companion that doubles the fun and comes at half the cost. Why limit yourself to 36 photos when you can capture 72 vibrant shots on a single roll? The camera is excellent for amateurs and those who love nostalgia, as each roll of the film becomes a treasure trove of memories.
Small enough to go with you anywhere, the Ektar H35 is beautifully essential. Its straightforward interface allows you to grab life as it goes. Indoors, outdoors, day, or night, the built-in flash gives crisp shots with a timeless film look. You can also select from a range of colors suitable for your style. The Ektar H35 will return the old analog charm to your digitalized world: photography but retro style.
Reto Ultra Wide & Slim 35mm Film Camera
See Wide, Travel Light
Get out of your comfort zone with the Reto’s Ultra Wide & Slim, a slim and light dual-format 35mm digital camera featuring a 22mm lens for a broader perspective. Ultra-lightweight, no-focusing gadgets allow it to be always at your ready, obtaining colossal landscapes.
The Reto Ultra Wide & Slim is a delight for film photographers who want to cover large shots with broad vision. Its 22mm lens doesn’t only capture pictures — it widens the horizon in your photos, giving the appearance of a more extraordinary landscape. On the other hand, its slim design easily fits into a pocket. This camera is perfect for daytime adventures, effortlessly combining style with artistic snapshots.
This ultra-light camera has a wide-angle lens that lets you record your daily life in a video and creatively make lovely still moments. This camera is a perfect option; it offers you a unique opportunity to savor the depth and texture of the film photography world in the era of digital photography’s fast and intensive development.
Leica M6 Rangefinder 35mm Camera
Elegance in Imaging
The Leica M6 Rangefinder incarnates the legendary brand philosophy of producing precision and robustness with its full-frame 35mm format, the metal construction in brass, and manual controls. Therefore, it is suitable for all discerning photographers who enjoy the combination of tradition and technical mastery in imaging.
The Leica M6 Rangefinder camera epitomizes Leica’s unwavering pursuit of perfection in photography. It is highly user-friendly, with 0.72x viewfinder magnification and a light meter with red dot navigation, ensuring high quality in every shot. The top part of the lid is a chromed brass cover with a black lacquer finish, which not only protects the traditional 1984 version but also adds a touch of color with the famous red Leitz logo.
This camera is more than just a tool for taking pictures. It’s a place for developing a passion and discovering the art of photography. The absence of noise and complex camera gear invites you to focus on composition and exposure. The Leica M6 is an excellent choice for photographers who appreciate tradition and are will to invest in a high-end camera.
Kodak Ultra F9 Film Camera
Vintage Vibes, Modern Snaps
The Kodak Ultra F9 celluloid-based film camera is both nostalgic in design and functional in its simplicity. Compact and lightweight, it is suited for 35mm film amateurs who like to take life moments in a bright color film.
Think of the Kodak Ultra F9 as the go-to camera for anyone eager to dip their toes into the world of film photography without getting overwhelmed. Its charm lies in its nod to classic design while being incredibly easy to use. This little gem is perfect for the modern-day explorer looking to capture life’s moments on film with a personal touch. The camera’s simplicity is its superpower — no need to fiddle with complicated settings.
The manual exposure control is there when you’re ready to play with light and shadow, making it as much a learning tool as a creative conduit. Its compatibility with color films invites you to paint your memories with every hue. With its pocket-sized build, built-in flash, and easy controls, the Ultra F9 is perfect for those spontaneous shots, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer with a soft spot for film’s authenticity.
Holga Panoramic 120 WPC
Panoramic Analog Artistry
The Holga 120 WPC lets you retake the panoramic version of pinhole photography into the digital panorama format. A widely used camera with a 120-degree field of view and multiple exposures can be great for creative souls.
If you are passionate about medium format film, don’t miss out on this opportunity to try a carefully handmade analog camera: the Holga 120 WPC camera. It’s a pinhole panoramic camera specialized in medium film. With a tiny aperture, this camera captures pictures with a broad view of over 120 degrees and contemporary vignettes framing the image. It is a pause button, melting in time and space, inviting you to play the game carefully and to peep around curiously.
This lens has two frame-sized masks and can shoot at wide angles and capture up to 120 degrees. It is undoubtedly for those who love the things they build with their hands, a dash of experiments, or the do-it-yourself trend.
FAQ
How have film cameras evolved by 2024 to stay relevant?
Recently, film cameras have been revamped with modern features, but their classic analog characteristics are still intact. These cameras can now capture pictures with more flexibility; a viewfinder has been made available to take fast snapshots and the ability to connect to the digital negative.
Besides that, manufacturers have improved these devices' design quality and reliability to meet the demands of newbies and professionals who are fans of film photography that leave unique and memorable experiences. These innovations have contributed to making film cameras more accessible and either focusing or reputed for those who appreciate photography as an act of art and technical skill.
Is it worth investing in film cameras?
Yes. Photography would be different if we could not use film cameras. Film cameras enjoy exclusive advantages with photographers. The slow nature of film accentuates the meticulous process leading from composition to exposure, which is physically represented by waiting for the film to develop, which is more enriching to the craft. Last but not least, the magic of film photography is regarded for its aesthetic qualities, such as grain and color, that many digital cameras strive to achieve.
