Looking forward to your Meyer Optik Lydith review; very few objective reviews of this lens on UA-cam. I've had my copy for just a couple of months but along with the Domiplan, thanks to your review of that lens it has become an all time vintage favourite.
I have four out of your nine. I've never owned a Nikon but it might be time to change that. The way film prices are going I can see half-frame cameras making a comeback. Another great video, keep up the great work.
Good time, I appreciate your information and perspectives. My first photography class was black and white with a Pentax k-1000. I think black and white development is the best place to start, it really gives perspective and deeper understanding of what Phtography really is. Could you get an adapter to test the Meyer optik with the fuji?.. Thank you love you :)
Top quality as usual, Nigel. There's a camera for everyone out there, no matter your budget or desire. I have got the medium format bug, of late, I picked up a bargain Mamiya C3 TLR early last year with an 80mm lens, and immediately bought a 60mm wide angle and a 150mm telephoto set. Once bitten I then jumped and bought a Bronica EC, with the same focal lengths, and have recently bought a Bronica S2A with a Nikkor 50mm f3.5. Stunning bits of kit. Some ideas? How about, "What's Your Budget"? - Pick a budget, say £10, £20,,£30 etc and try to put together something for each price point, and here's the twist - it has to include a film!! I picked up, in a charity shop, a Samsung Vega 290W and a Konica Z-uP 70 Super, both for £3 each. Together with a Fomapan 100 36exp film they come in at well under £10 each. I think that it would make a good talking point - what's the cheapest you can go in film, LOL I love these Sunday videos, keep up the good work George
I'm ever grateful that your videos introduced me to the Fed rangefinders, and my Fed 5 became the camera that taught me photography basics. I grew up with film but never had anything more than a point-and-shoot to work with back in those days. Another Yashica product that I came upon recently is the MG-1, which is mostly made up of Electro 35 parts, but which has a f/2.8 lens rather than a f/1.7. Otherwise, it's much the same -- it still even has the atomic symbol -- and it costs much, much less.
These are very stylish cameras, an iconic piece of industrial design that doesn't seem to have aged - and they make fantastic images too! Absolutely one of my favourite cameras!
Splendid review! I like both the FM and the FE but clearly prefer the FM as you do. You omitted the principal reason though: The FM has a mechanical while the FE has an electronic shutter. Old hands like us have a penchant for the marriage of pure mechanics with optics, without the intervention of electronics. This is pure sentimentalism, I must confess, since the electronic control of shutter speed in Nikons is more accurate and just as durable as its mechnical counterpart. (Always carry spare batteries, though!) // To someone new to film I would never hand over a camera with Auto! In my view, it is of prime importance to learn the art of correct exposure by combining time and aperture by hand. Once that is mastered, you may go Auto -- but probably won't.
I like my Yashica fxd quartz. Bought mine for £12 and changed the shabby body covering. I also have a Zorki 4k with the Jupiter 8 50mm lens. Excellent. My Nikon FE with the 50mm F2 Nikkor lens cost me £100 and gets the most use.
My old man taught me how to use his Pentax SV way back in the 70s. I eventually acquired it when he upgraded to a Canon AE-1. My first purchase was the Nikon FA. I also had an L35AF, which went with me everywhere. My biggest regret is selling the FA in the 00s, and somehow managing to lose the L35AF. I now have a D750 with some great glass, and an X100V on order, but I still miss my old 35mm Nikons...
Tip if you’re interested in the Yashica Electro: (Get the GL or GX version) There are many versions of this camera. All of them except two have a 45mm 1.7 lens and a Cadmium Sulphide (CdS) light sensor. That sensor is commonly dead in many cameras today. However the GL and GX versions use a 40mm 1.7 and have a Silicon Blue Cell (SBC) light meter. This meter is more accurate, more reliable, and more consistent than the older CdS meters. The GL version allows for film speeds up to 1600 while the GX stops at 1000, otherwise they’re identical.
Very intresting video, as always ! I am a bit surprised that you have not mentionned one of your all time favorites, the Olympus OM2n. Thanks alot for sharing your know-how with us all. Greetings, Take Care, Roger.
I had to chuckle when 'film' was explained at the beginning of the video. Except for those of us who grew up with film photography and those who continue to shoot with film..there probably are folks out there who grew up with digital photography and that's all they know but it's all good capturing the image is the key. The Yashica Electro GS/GSN cameras are gems especially with that excellent f/1.7 lens. My favorite of the group is the Nikon FM..then again I'm not objective since I've had one since 1980 and it is an excellent camera I've taken many great photos with it and it has never let me down. I don't consider it especially heavy or large in comparison to other mostly metal 35mm SLR film cameras from 'back in the day' I also have a Nikon F and Nikkormat FT2 those are noticeably heavier and larger than the FM..you know you have a substantial camera hanging around your neck.
Nice presentation. I have 3 of your choices. I wonder if you could discuss how to use the older Nikon lenses that require a lever to be bent. Never understood what had to be done. Kind regards.
A very nice selection of film cameras, Nigel! Brilliant touch with the crystal ball, you made me laugh there, wonderful when folks don't take themselves to seriously, thank you! My favourite Nikon film camera is the FM2, so we're into the same there, maybe it's time for a Canon F-1? Talking about Canons, the T series often come with the FD 35-70 f4, not exactly exciting, but quite a nice, cheap lens. I've had no luck in finding a FD 50mm 1.4 at under 150 euros, but I did pick up my Nikon L35af2 at only 5 euros, so sometimes you're lucky, and sometimes you're not. I totally agree on the Minolta XG-1, a very nice little camera, people seems to have forgotten about them since they are no longer around, and bargains are quite frequent. The same can be said about Konica.
Interesting to see you discuss the Zorki 1. I bought one recently as I liked the design but didn't want to spend Leica money. I found it very fiddly to use and preparing and loading the film is a pain. Part way through my first roll, the aperture all but seized. It was under a months warranty from the Manchester camera shop I'd bought it from, and they took it back without a quibble. Shortly thereafter I had the film processed and ...... oh dear, I acted too soon. The images from the collapsible Industar lens were superb. Not the sharpest and low contrast, but with a character I've rarely seen or liked as much. I must get another copy of the lens, but probably not the Zorki 1.
The early Leicas, or their many copies, including the Zorki 1, are kind of fiddly to use, but then I guess they are what they are and like any machine can only be used within their limits. I rather enjoy using them - they can make beautiful images, they're really small and they're incredibly stylish too, a real iconic piece of design. Find a nice one and you might discover their charm!
@@zenography7923 It's true enough I liked the style and loved the pocketable size. It's sometimes the case that a camera just doesn't gel. I've a Zorki 4, it's great and a pleasure to use. I had a Contax iia until recently. I couldn't find anything to fault and it produced beautiful results, but it never excited me either, and I love rangefinders. I have an aged Contax D slr and love it as much as several much more advanced and costly slrs I own. I love all the Praktica cameras I own and have owned and cannot understand why they are so ignored. It's a nebulous concept to describe, but I've very much come to the conclusion that some cameras 'feel right' making me want to use them, and others simply don't.
The sister cam of the nikon af is the chinon infra Fokus almost the same features only a 38mm lens. Andy Warhols big eye cam. I get mine for around 20 bucks and yes it's a great point and shoot
Another ebay find I got about 2 weeks ago, a great fully working with no battery corrosion (another) Nikon F301 with a 50mm f1.8 standard not pancake lens for the hefty sum of £38
Superb content as usual Nigel! Very informative! Would you mind asking your crystal ball if we'll ever get to see a review of the Canon Dial 35 as used in The Prisoner (Episode 7) "Many Happy Returns". Many thanks, Dave. Be seeing you... 👁👌🏻
Nice video Nigel, thanks. Cannot wait for the XT-3 review, a favourite companion of mine. Out of curiosity, ever got the chance to try the Canon Elan E? Perhaps not your sort of camera really, but if you are familiar with it, I'd be interested in your opinion.
Loving this collection of recommendation sir! 😍😍😍 No OM10?! It would be one of my top recommendations on price and value, or even an OM1 for total basics and bargain value (bit like the FM but without the über price tag!). I know you’re a big fan and have covered them fully in the past. I’m drawn to that big old beauty of a Yashica! Or maybe an Olympus Trip 35, although I have an Pen F (message me if you’d like to review it btw!) that I should use more! I’ve got a T70 with two of those system lens they did for them. I’d like a Minolta SLR, I think my brother had an X7000 or something like that. I’ve got a FED III or IIII that was fun to try, but I’d love a really sweet full frame rangefinder with switchable lenses at some point. Any recommendations?
I enjoyed this one. I can see only one other comment showing interest in the MOG Lydith 30mm 3.5, they are a great lens for landscapes, street scenes etc, not so much for close ups. I look forward to your review whenever it gets to us :-)
I grew up with film in the 1960s and my dream as a boy was to have a Leica rangefinder and a Nikon SLR. They were expensive especially that Leica and the good lenses. My first photography class as a lad was at the Art Institute in Chicago and I recall one of the instructors used that Olympus with the half-frame.
That was a good dream, I hope you achieved it! My dream was to have a Zorki 4K but I ended up with a Fed 4 instead. A Zenit was an impossible imagining! Thanks for looking in!
One of my favourite film photos I've taken was with a Yashica Electro 35 GS, a silver one, but your black G version looks nice. It can shoot in low light really well with that lens and leaf shutter.
I liked this camera as soon as I saw it and knew I had to have one. I'm still shooting it and haven't developed any images from it yet - can't wait to see what it can do!
7:57 I guess you made an earthquake joule over the bones of Lenin, Starlin, and Brezhnev in their graves! Though I love your choices in every category, I really want to see an original Zenit SLR, somewhere in the merit list as its kit lens alone, currently is still selling more than a top of line, autofocus, ultra-modern current technology lens of similar F-number in every big-name players and dominant of the current market. This must have a very good reason, besides that famous whirling bokeh!
The Helios 44 is one of my favourite lenses, but the some versions are better than others - in my experience KMZ are the best. I've looked at Zenit SLRs in the past - perhaps it's time to re-visit! Thanks for looking in!
The TTArtisan 17/1.4, 35/1.4 and 50/1.2 APS-C Trio Lenses are all especially cheap & great throughout the bank, since Fall 2021, when the Zfc Nikon came out, also being avialable into silver color - not only for Nikon Z-Mount. ;) And the latest TTA 23/1.4 Zebra Design Lens is a really fine character lens, 35mm equivalent. Check out the Video from Toms Cameras. I have it since before X-Mas 2021.
Thanks for tip on the Canon T70. The one I bought 'as-is' for £13 that I mentioned before I have now shot with and it works perfectly with the kit Canon 35-70 I bought separately for £26. It might not be the finest of lenses but I wanted to complete the T70 period look. In my drawer I have a Tampon SP2 Adaptall 2 35-80 that hasn't been used for decades. I intend to get a Canon FD mount for it and put it onto the T70 for some really good images at the expense of a lot more weight. I believe it's an outstanding lens. I haven't checked but I wonder if you have reviewed it? The last part of my T70 story is that I have bought another T70 body. It was sold as 'working' for £23 in P&P and is in rather nicer condition than the first one. I haven't shot with it yet but it appears to work properly. I really like the oh-so 80's look of the T70 and using it is really nice (aside from the noise of the rewind!) so at this price I wanted a little insurance if one goes wrong. If anyone asked me what they should buy as their first film SLR it would be hard to think of a better choice than the T70. So often I see the OM1 or Canon AE1 suggested, but they are not so cheap these days. Also with its programme and auto-exposure shutter priority modes the T70 is easier to use for a beginner. I'd also suggest the cheap 35-70 to start with as it's rather cheaper than the prime lenses, has (I read) at least decent image quality, and will give the user a better idea of the focal length primes thy might prefer down the line.
Thanks . Tres interessant, comme toujours. May be you could test the Nikon F301 (N2000 in US). A very cheap camera with incredible features. In France, you can find one for 30 ... 50 euros.
@@zenography7923 Or the Nikon F-501, mostly the same camera, but with AF and it's even cheaper. I've bought a mint one in 2020 for ca. € 60, that's just incredible for such a well built F-mount camera. Some folks on the internet say that its AF is not that great, but it works absolutely fine in daylight and by toggling a switch you have manual focus F-301, but with some extra features that the F-301 doesn't have.
Having just bought one and out a couple of films through it I have a few comments on the Nikon L35AF for anyone considering buying one. So far I've been very impressed by all the things you note. It consistently delivers sharp images that are in focus and well exposed. The looks are in my eyes great and it's fun to shoot with. So what's not to like? Well....if one of this type of sophisticated early point and shoot cameras goes wrong it's probably unfixable. To somewhat contradict myself, the two Achilles Heels of this camera you mentioned in your separate video on it i.e. the battery door breaking (gaffer tape!) and even the shutter release sticking are quite fixable. However what about anything else? On my first roll through the camera wouldn't rewind. As I develop my own film it wasn't a big deal as I just took the film out in the darkroom and loaded into the developing tank directly. On the second roll it didn't rewind at first but after cough and a splutter (and a gently tap from me!) it completed the rewind. I have processed the film and the negatives look good however the frame spacing is not consistent. It was fine on the first roll. It varies from non-existent to twice normal but no frames actually overlap. Who knows about the next roll? Everything AOK or a complete seizure? The Nikon is a fine camera and I do recommend buying it at the right price. However the purchaser should be aware that it can die at any time. It's a bit Blade Runner (and real life for that matter) in that you don't know how much time you've got but best to make the most of it! Just don't pay too much for one as even a 'minter' could expire the day after you get it. So do get an L35AF and enjoy it while you can!
You're absolutely right when you say make the most of it - these are old machines and will eventually need service and repair. It will probably be possible to repair manual cameras for some time to come, but the more complex auto cameras will one day reach the end of the road. Having said that, all machines do benefit from regular use!
And as a direct result of watching your video I've just bought an 'as-is untested' Canon T70 body for a whopping £13.09 in P&P! I'll have to prise the corroded batteries out but fingers crossed! Like you said there are plenty of FD 50mm lenses out there on auction so I can probably get one of those for not much money too. I had discounted the 80's 'transitional' and 'plasticky' cameras before, but after getting the L35AF my eyes have opened. The likes of the Nikon FM that I have, are lovely pure machines but there is a place for something else in my modest shooting collection. I think the T70 is a great looking camera in its own way and, like the L35AF, it's so of its time! Also I agree that aperture priority but not auto-focus is the sweet spot regarding automation for SLRs.
Great video as ever, I really enjoyed this one! I'd love to see a full review of that Yashica 35, it's a great looking camera. I had an X-T3 but now use an X-T2 which I'm trying out with some old Takumar lenses... Speaking of which, have you ever reviewed the Pentax Spotmatic? Another value for money camera is the Nikon F301, I'd love to see a review of that! All the best.
Nice collection of cameras. I'd like to get a good film rangefinder in my own collection. Always wanted a Leica, but they're a bit out of my budget. I'll have to keep an eye out for those Russian copies, the one that's a model of the Leica II would be very nice to have. I remember the first time I saw the Canon T70. When I was taking photography classes in the late eighties, one of the other students bought one. I was really impressed; at that time, I had never seen an all button-controlled camera with an LCD screen on it, up close before that point. Up till that then, my A-1 was probably the most advanced camera in the class.
I've owned an FM, an FM2, and and FE2. All great cameras. But the FM2 was the only Nikon I've ever owned that broke. Shutter failed-the louvers messed up- and had to be replaced. They're all gone now, but I wish I had at least one of them.
Many thanks for information! When I saw the Canon T70 on your list - this really brought good memories from the mid 80's: In fact I cut my SLR teeth on this body during the mid 80's. This made me dig around storage space at home and I found the T70 again! In the interim I changed to Nikon digital but own several Nikon AI/AIS/AF/AFD lenses and considering to get the T70 back to life again. However, before doing so would be greatful to receive any info on whether adapters are available to fit these Nikon lenses to a FD Canon body. Many thanks. Philip Jooste
My recommendation: Olympus OM1n. Fully mechanical, can get CLA-ed still, easy to use, reliable, stylish. Still fairly inexpensive and great amount of high quality lenses.
Thanks for the informative video! I love the Olympus point and shoot cameras for their appearance, but to just rely on symbols fir focussing wouldn't be my cup of tea. I recently considered the Nikon FM as a present for my younger brother who's got quite some Nikon lenses of different age (while I'm more of a Pentaxian) but hasn't got an analog camera yet. I'll see ... Looking forward to your next videos. As you develop your black and white films yourself (if I understood right), a video on that topic would be appreciated!
Hi Zenography, another great video as per usual👍, I recently purchased just before Christmas my first rangefinder camera as I normally shoot slr’s. The camera in question is a Yashica Lynx 14E 1C with a 45mm F1.4. It needs a CLA but definitely looking forward to shooting this beast.
After decades shooting film when that was all there was, it just became too much trouble and expense to continue shooting film where I live in Indonesia. As a Kodachrome shooter primarily, that era came to an abrupt end too soon for me. It is good to see a new generation of photographers discovering film and film cameras, but I could never justify going back to film.
Have you tried adapting the Nikon lenses to use on digital? I've recently inherited my fathers old Nikon F3 and bought some lenses for it, including the 50mm 1.4 ais, I'd like to know if you have tried them out, I think an adapter may need another element to compensate for the lenses to film distance.
It depends what you want to adapt them to. Adapting to mirrorless cameras (eg Sony A7, Fuji X, Micro Four Thirds etc) is simple and easy, with only a simple adaptor, with no extra elements, required. Adapting to DSLRs may be difficult without a special adaptor.
Thanks, Zenography! I was wondering what my photography hobby would lead to next, but I found the next step with this video. I watched this video in the morning and by midday I found myself thinking about that Yashica 35 Electro. By the afternoon I was checking eBay for one, and by evening I remembered seeing a couple of Yashica cameras at a local antique mall, so I drove over to check them out. I am now sitting with a Yashica Electro 35 GS on my desk, looking for information on what film to use. I am excited to try it out and use a (non-disposable) film camera for the first time! (Also, it seems to have come with a battery set up in it, at least, and doesn’t look too bad for $45 US)
Welcome to the Electro club - you got yours for a good price too! It's a fairly simple camera to use, being an auto exposure only camera so the only thing you'll need to get used to is the rangefinder focussing system, which is pretty simple too! Enjoy!
Actually, Canon T70 came out in 1884 (😱) while T90 came out a couple of years later, so T70 was indeed state of the art camera. But since Minolta released their first auto focussing model in 1985 (model 7000) Canon had to act fast so in 1987 it already came out with the first camera of EOS series, the EOS 650. It's funny, you say Nikon FM & FE are a big cameras, while back in the day they where considered rather small. At least for Nikon standards. I'm disappointed that there's no OM1 in your lineup, but you've redeemed yourself with those Pen models 😉 And with the X-T3 of course...
Oh, and aren't Nikon point and shoots just magical. I bought a Nikon TW20 from a house clearance auction for an embarrassingly low price and it feels incredible in the hand... everything about it is premiere league.
"Fullframe" is a stupid moniker, when the #1 36x24mm Sensor DSLRs arrived ( EOS 1Ds, 11 MP, 2002) - but the world's #1 was the mightly Contax N Digital (announced: 2000) with it's flawed Philips 6 MP Sensor. Back to the Filmdays - that Format, 36x24mm, was being called "Small picture Format", created by Oskar Barnack for the Ur-Leica - and was being considered inferior, because people at the time have been Shooting Large Format, and also Medium Format Sizes. So much about the history ;) There are many great SLRs, and even Rangefinders (Film - of course) being avialable, which you can choose from...so pick you poison, take your fave film, and enjoy. Peace.
This is why film is on rise. Full frame digital is too expensive. Good one cost around 3k with technology will be behind in 4-5 years. And some people like me too scared to bring outside. 35mm film is a full frame that cost 1/10 digital one. And i dont mind bringing my camera outside
Buy it now prices are likely to be higher, but check out completed sales and you might be surprised. Patience pays off, and the bargains are out there!
Love your show. Informational and soothing at the same time. Makes my week better. Thank you!
Many thanks David, glad you're enjoying it!
Yes, you will get beautiful images from Yashica Electro 35, I have and love this beauty 😊
Can't wait to shoot it properly and see the images - I'm rather hoping they'll be nice!
That's great! I have been using a Yashica Electro 35 GTN camera for 45 years. Excellent, I really like it.
Looking forward to your Meyer Optik Lydith review; very few objective reviews of this lens on UA-cam. I've had my copy for just a couple of months but along with the Domiplan, thanks to your review of that lens it has become an all time vintage favourite.
I have four out of your nine. I've never owned a Nikon but it might be time to change that. The way film prices are going I can see half-frame cameras making a comeback. Another great video, keep up the great work.
Great! Enjoyed it! Like always…
I do miss the Olympus OM 1 or 2 😉
But I’m an Olympus enthousiast. Bought my first starting Art Academy…
Olympus are probably my favourite SLRs on balance - beautiful little things!
I want to pickup and Olympus. Should I get the OM 1, 2 or 3?
Lovely selection of camera's. Thanks for another interesting video!
Thanks Bert, glad you like them!
You'll enjoy the XT3. The 18 - 55 kit lens is excellent. At the moment I have the TT Artisans 17mm fitted to mine, and it makes a lovely combination.
Another thumbs up for the TT Artisans 17mm lens - a brand new lens which gives all the quality of a vintage lens, but bitingly sharp as well.
The X-T3 is wonderful to shoot with.
I'm looking forward to exploring the X-T3 for sure - and that 17mm is one of my favourites!
I bought the X-T2 a few years back. I love it. I have the 7artisans 25mm f/1.8 I use with it sometimes.
Great presentation, makes Me appreciate My collection. No need to spend too much money.Thanks.
Good time, I appreciate your information and perspectives. My first photography class was black and white with a Pentax k-1000. I think black and white development is the best place to start, it really gives perspective and deeper understanding of what Phtography really is. Could you get an adapter to test the Meyer optik with the fuji?.. Thank you love you :)
I'd love to use the Lydith on the Fuji, you have anticipated my thoughts! Thanks for the love!
Top quality as usual, Nigel.
There's a camera for everyone out there, no matter your budget or desire. I have got the medium format bug, of late, I picked up a bargain Mamiya C3 TLR early last year with an 80mm lens, and immediately bought a 60mm wide angle and a 150mm telephoto set. Once bitten I then jumped and bought a Bronica EC, with the same focal lengths, and have recently bought a Bronica S2A with a Nikkor 50mm f3.5.
Stunning bits of kit.
Some ideas?
How about, "What's Your Budget"? - Pick a budget, say £10, £20,,£30 etc and try to put together something for each price point, and here's the twist - it has to include a film!!
I picked up, in a charity shop, a Samsung Vega 290W and a Konica Z-uP 70 Super, both for £3 each. Together with a Fomapan 100 36exp film they come in at well under £10 each. I think that it would make a good talking point - what's the cheapest you can go in film, LOL
I love these Sunday videos, keep up the good work
George
Thanks George, glad you enjoyed it - and that's a really cool idea, thanks!
I'm ever grateful that your videos introduced me to the Fed rangefinders, and my Fed 5 became the camera that taught me photography basics. I grew up with film but never had anything more than a point-and-shoot to work with back in those days. Another Yashica product that I came upon recently is the MG-1, which is mostly made up of Electro 35 parts, but which has a f/2.8 lens rather than a f/1.7. Otherwise, it's much the same -- it still even has the atomic symbol -- and it costs much, much less.
Although all the cameras shown look awesome, personally I feel like the Zorki 1 is the most beautiful camera out of all of them.
These are very stylish cameras, an iconic piece of industrial design that doesn't seem to have aged - and they make fantastic images too! Absolutely one of my favourite cameras!
@@zenography7923 I would definitely agree with with you!
Splendid review! I like both the FM and the FE but clearly prefer the FM as you do. You omitted the principal reason though: The FM has a mechanical while the FE has an electronic shutter. Old hands like us have a penchant for the marriage of pure mechanics with optics, without the intervention of electronics. This is pure sentimentalism, I must confess, since the electronic control of shutter speed in Nikons is more accurate and just as durable as its mechnical counterpart. (Always carry spare batteries, though!) // To someone new to film I would never hand over a camera with Auto! In my view, it is of prime importance to learn the art of correct exposure by combining time and aperture by hand. Once that is mastered, you may go Auto -- but probably won't.
I like my Yashica fxd quartz. Bought mine for £12 and changed the shabby body covering.
I also have a Zorki 4k with the Jupiter 8 50mm lens. Excellent.
My Nikon FE with the 50mm F2 Nikkor lens cost me £100 and gets the most use.
My old man taught me how to use his Pentax SV way back in the 70s. I eventually acquired it when he upgraded to a Canon AE-1. My first purchase was the Nikon FA. I also had an L35AF, which went with me everywhere. My biggest regret is selling the FA in the 00s, and somehow managing to lose the L35AF. I now have a D750 with some great glass, and an X100V on order, but I still miss my old 35mm Nikons...
Excellent information (highly experienced) . Thanks .
Wish - Minolta LC range finder camera review.
Tip if you’re interested in the Yashica Electro: (Get the GL or GX version)
There are many versions of this camera. All of them except two have a 45mm 1.7 lens and a Cadmium Sulphide (CdS) light sensor. That sensor is commonly dead in many cameras today.
However the GL and GX versions use a 40mm 1.7 and have a Silicon Blue Cell (SBC) light meter. This meter is more accurate, more reliable, and more consistent than the older CdS meters. The GL version allows for film speeds up to 1600 while the GX stops at 1000, otherwise they’re identical.
Thanks for the info, I'll check them out!
Very intresting video, as always ! I am a bit surprised that you have not mentionned one of your all time favorites, the Olympus OM2n. Thanks alot for sharing your know-how with us all. Greetings, Take Care, Roger.
Many thanks Roger, glad you enjoyed it!
I had to chuckle when 'film' was explained at the beginning of the video. Except for those of us who grew up with film photography and those who continue to shoot with film..there probably are folks out there who grew up with digital photography and that's all they know but it's all good capturing the image is the key. The Yashica Electro GS/GSN cameras are gems especially with that excellent f/1.7 lens. My favorite of the group is the Nikon FM..then again I'm not objective since I've had one since 1980 and it is an excellent camera I've taken many great photos with it and it has never let me down. I don't consider it especially heavy or large in comparison to other mostly metal 35mm SLR film cameras from 'back in the day' I also have a Nikon F and Nikkormat FT2 those are noticeably heavier and larger than the FM..you know you have a substantial camera hanging around your neck.
Hence the stories of Nikons stopping bullets I guess! Thanks for looking in.
Nice presentation. I have 3 of your choices. I wonder if you could discuss how to use the older Nikon lenses that require a lever to be bent. Never understood what had to be done. Kind regards.
Absolutely loved this one! Thanks for the fantastic content as usual Nigel!
Many thanks, glad you liked it!
Im for Meyer Optik Lens!!
I kind of like that one too - cheap and plenty of optical flaws, but a rather special charm!
I have the later all black Pentacon version, superb little lens, very sharp, lovely colour rendition.
No disrespect,but when I can’t sleep I play one of your videos and it helps me sleep
A very nice selection of film cameras, Nigel! Brilliant touch with the crystal ball, you made me laugh there, wonderful when folks don't take themselves to seriously, thank you! My favourite Nikon film camera is the FM2, so we're into the same there, maybe it's time for a Canon F-1? Talking about Canons, the T series often come with the FD 35-70 f4, not exactly exciting, but quite a nice, cheap lens. I've had no luck in finding a FD 50mm 1.4 at under 150 euros, but I did pick up my Nikon L35af2 at only 5 euros, so sometimes you're lucky, and sometimes you're not. I totally agree on the Minolta XG-1, a very nice little camera, people seems to have forgotten about them since they are no longer around, and bargains are quite frequent. The same can be said about Konica.
Glad I made you smile Kalle - and well done with the Nikon L35 AF - the bargains are out there, as you have found!
I love the Olympus Trip 35. So easy to carry and gets good resuls.
A great little camera, no doubt about it! Thanks for looking in.
Interesting to see you discuss the Zorki 1. I bought one recently as I liked the design but didn't want to spend Leica money. I found it very fiddly to use and preparing and loading the film is a pain. Part way through my first roll, the aperture all but seized. It was under a months warranty from the Manchester camera shop I'd bought it from, and they took it back without a quibble. Shortly thereafter I had the film processed and ...... oh dear, I acted too soon. The images from the collapsible Industar lens were superb. Not the sharpest and low contrast, but with a character I've rarely seen or liked as much. I must get another copy of the lens, but probably not the Zorki 1.
The early Leicas, or their many copies, including the Zorki 1, are kind of fiddly to use, but then I guess they are what they are and like any machine can only be used within their limits. I rather enjoy using them - they can make beautiful images, they're really small and they're incredibly stylish too, a real iconic piece of design. Find a nice one and you might discover their charm!
@@zenography7923 It's true enough I liked the style and loved the pocketable size. It's sometimes the case that a camera just doesn't gel. I've a Zorki 4, it's great and a pleasure to use. I had a Contax iia until recently. I couldn't find anything to fault and it produced beautiful results, but it never excited me either, and I love rangefinders. I have an aged Contax D slr and love it as much as several much more advanced and costly slrs I own. I love all the Praktica cameras I own and have owned and cannot understand why they are so ignored. It's a nebulous concept to describe, but I've very much come to the conclusion that some cameras 'feel right' making me want to use them, and others simply don't.
The sister cam of the nikon af is the chinon infra Fokus almost the same features only a 38mm lens. Andy Warhols big eye cam. I get mine for around 20 bucks and yes it's a great point and shoot
Another ebay find I got about 2 weeks ago, a great fully working with no battery corrosion (another) Nikon F301 with a 50mm f1.8 standard not pancake lens for the hefty sum of £38
Superb content as usual Nigel! Very informative! Would you mind asking your crystal ball if we'll ever get to see a review of the Canon Dial 35 as used in The Prisoner (Episode 7) "Many Happy Returns". Many thanks, Dave. Be seeing you... 👁👌🏻
I'd love to try one of those - it would be pretty cool to shoot it in the village too. I shall consult the mystical orb - be seeing you!
@@zenography7923 My thoughts exactly! Be seeing you!
Nice video Nigel, thanks. Cannot wait for the XT-3 review, a favourite companion of mine. Out of curiosity, ever got the chance to try the Canon Elan E? Perhaps not your sort of camera really, but if you are familiar with it, I'd be interested in your opinion.
Loving this collection of recommendation sir! 😍😍😍 No OM10?! It would be one of my top recommendations on price and value, or even an OM1 for total basics and bargain value (bit like the FM but without the über price tag!). I know you’re a big fan and have covered them fully in the past. I’m drawn to that big old beauty of a Yashica! Or maybe an Olympus Trip 35, although I have an Pen F (message me if you’d like to review it btw!) that I should use more! I’ve got a T70 with two of those system lens they did for them. I’d like a Minolta SLR, I think my brother had an X7000 or something like that. I’ve got a FED III or IIII that was fun to try, but I’d love a really sweet full frame rangefinder with switchable lenses at some point. Any recommendations?
I enjoyed this one. I can see only one other comment showing interest in the MOG Lydith 30mm 3.5, they are a great lens for landscapes, street scenes etc, not so much for close ups. I look forward to your review whenever it gets to us :-)
It may take a week or so yet, but it's coming! Thanks for looking in.
I grew up with film in the 1960s and my dream as a boy was to have a Leica rangefinder and a Nikon SLR. They were expensive especially that Leica and the good lenses.
My first photography class as a lad was at the Art Institute in Chicago and I recall one of the instructors used that Olympus with the half-frame.
That was a good dream, I hope you achieved it! My dream was to have a Zorki 4K but I ended up with a Fed 4 instead. A Zenit was an impossible imagining! Thanks for looking in!
One of my favourite film photos I've taken was with a Yashica Electro 35 GS, a silver one, but your black G version looks nice. It can shoot in low light really well with that lens and leaf shutter.
I liked this camera as soon as I saw it and knew I had to have one. I'm still shooting it and haven't developed any images from it yet - can't wait to see what it can do!
7:57 I guess you made an earthquake joule over the bones of Lenin, Starlin, and Brezhnev in their graves!
Though I love your choices in every category, I really want to see an original Zenit SLR, somewhere in the merit list as its kit lens alone, currently is still selling more than a top of line, autofocus, ultra-modern current technology lens of similar F-number in every big-name players and dominant of the current market. This must have a very good reason, besides that famous whirling bokeh!
The Helios 44 is one of my favourite lenses, but the some versions are better than others - in my experience KMZ are the best. I've looked at Zenit SLRs in the past - perhaps it's time to re-visit! Thanks for looking in!
The TTArtisan 17/1.4, 35/1.4 and 50/1.2 APS-C Trio Lenses are all especially cheap & great throughout the bank, since Fall 2021, when the Zfc Nikon came out, also being avialable into silver color - not only for Nikon Z-Mount. ;)
And the latest TTA 23/1.4 Zebra Design Lens is a really fine character lens, 35mm equivalent. Check out the Video from Toms Cameras. I have it since before X-Mas 2021.
Thanks for tip on the Canon T70. The one I bought 'as-is' for £13 that I mentioned before I have now shot with and it works perfectly with the kit Canon 35-70 I bought separately for £26. It might not be the finest of lenses but I wanted to complete the T70 period look. In my drawer I have a Tampon SP2 Adaptall 2 35-80 that hasn't been used for decades. I intend to get a Canon FD mount for it and put it onto the T70 for some really good images at the expense of a lot more weight. I believe it's an outstanding lens. I haven't checked but I wonder if you have reviewed it?
The last part of my T70 story is that I have bought another T70 body. It was sold as 'working' for £23 in P&P and is in rather nicer condition than the first one. I haven't shot with it yet but it appears to work properly. I really like the oh-so 80's look of the T70 and using it is really nice (aside from the noise of the rewind!) so at this price I wanted a little insurance if one goes wrong.
If anyone asked me what they should buy as their first film SLR it would be hard to think of a better choice than the T70. So often I see the OM1 or Canon AE1 suggested, but they are not so cheap these days. Also with its programme and auto-exposure shutter priority modes the T70 is easier to use for a beginner. I'd also suggest the cheap 35-70 to start with as it's rather cheaper than the prime lenses, has (I read) at least decent image quality, and will give the user a better idea of the focal length primes thy might prefer down the line.
Thanks . Tres interessant, comme toujours. May be you could test the Nikon F301 (N2000 in US). A very cheap camera with incredible features. In France, you can find one for 30 ... 50 euros.
Merci Pascal, glad you enjoyed it. I'll check out that Nikon, thanks for the tip!
@@zenography7923 Or the Nikon F-501, mostly the same camera, but with AF and it's even cheaper. I've bought a mint one in 2020 for ca. € 60, that's just incredible for such a well built F-mount camera. Some folks on the internet say that its AF is not that great, but it works absolutely fine in daylight and by toggling a switch you have manual focus F-301, but with some extra features that the F-301 doesn't have.
Having just bought one and out a couple of films through it I have a few comments on the Nikon L35AF for anyone considering buying one. So far I've been very impressed by all the things you note. It consistently delivers sharp images that are in focus and well exposed. The looks are in my eyes great and it's fun to shoot with. So what's not to like? Well....if one of this type of sophisticated early point and shoot cameras goes wrong it's probably unfixable.
To somewhat contradict myself, the two Achilles Heels of this camera you mentioned in your separate video on it i.e. the battery door breaking (gaffer tape!) and even the shutter release sticking are quite fixable. However what about anything else? On my first roll through the camera wouldn't rewind. As I develop my own film it wasn't a big deal as I just took the film out in the darkroom and loaded into the developing tank directly. On the second roll it didn't rewind at first but after cough and a splutter (and a gently tap from me!) it completed the rewind. I have processed the film and the negatives look good however the frame spacing is not consistent. It was fine on the first roll. It varies from non-existent to twice normal but no frames actually overlap. Who knows about the next roll? Everything AOK or a complete seizure?
The Nikon is a fine camera and I do recommend buying it at the right price. However the purchaser should be aware that it can die at any time. It's a bit Blade Runner (and real life for that matter) in that you don't know how much time you've got but best to make the most of it! Just don't pay too much for one as even a 'minter' could expire the day after you get it. So do get an L35AF and enjoy it while you can!
You're absolutely right when you say make the most of it - these are old machines and will eventually need service and repair. It will probably be possible to repair manual cameras for some time to come, but the more complex auto cameras will one day reach the end of the road. Having said that, all machines do benefit from regular use!
And as a direct result of watching your video I've just bought an 'as-is untested' Canon T70 body for a whopping £13.09 in P&P! I'll have to prise the corroded batteries out but fingers crossed! Like you said there are plenty of FD 50mm lenses out there on auction so I can probably get one of those for not much money too.
I had discounted the 80's 'transitional' and 'plasticky' cameras before, but after getting the L35AF my eyes have opened. The likes of the Nikon FM that I have, are lovely pure machines but there is a place for something else in my modest shooting collection. I think the T70 is a great looking camera in its own way and, like the L35AF, it's so of its time! Also I agree that aperture priority but not auto-focus is the sweet spot regarding automation for SLRs.
Fragile - unfortunately will end up in landfill sooner rather than later
Great video as ever, I really enjoyed this one! I'd love to see a full review of that Yashica 35, it's a great looking camera.
I had an X-T3 but now use an X-T2 which I'm trying out with some old Takumar lenses... Speaking of which, have you ever reviewed the Pentax Spotmatic?
Another value for money camera is the Nikon F301, I'd love to see a review of that!
All the best.
Thanks for the suggestions Bob, I'll check those cameras out!
Nice collection of cameras. I'd like to get a good film rangefinder in my own collection. Always wanted a Leica, but they're a bit out of my budget. I'll have to keep an eye out for those Russian copies, the one that's a model of the Leica II would be very nice to have. I remember the first time I saw the Canon T70. When I was taking photography classes in the late eighties, one of the other students bought one. I was really impressed; at that time, I had never seen an all button-controlled camera with an LCD screen on it, up close before that point. Up till that then, my A-1 was probably the most advanced camera in the class.
The T70 must have looked ultra modern in its day - I think it still looks pretty cool now!
I've owned an FM, an FM2, and and FE2. All great cameras. But the FM2 was the only Nikon I've ever owned that broke. Shutter failed-the louvers messed up- and had to be replaced. They're all gone now, but I wish I had at least one of them.
Lovely video Nigel,! Though Im surprised there were no Fujis film cameras. is there any you'd recommend ?
Many thanks for information! When I saw the Canon T70 on your list - this really brought good memories from the mid 80's: In fact I cut my SLR teeth on this body during the mid 80's. This made me dig around storage space at home and I found the T70 again! In the interim I changed to Nikon digital but own several Nikon AI/AIS/AF/AFD lenses and considering to get the T70 back to life again. However, before doing so would be greatful to receive any info on whether adapters are available to fit these Nikon lenses to a FD Canon body. Many thanks. Philip Jooste
Glad you found your T70 again, and yes, you can adapt your Nikon lenses to a Canon FD mount - a quick google will turn up lots of adaptors!
My recommendation: Olympus OM1n. Fully mechanical, can get CLA-ed still, easy to use, reliable, stylish. Still fairly inexpensive and great amount of high quality lenses.
I love the OM1 - everything you need and nothing you don't - except for plenty of style that is!
You can also get an Olympus OM20 in that price bracket, with a lovely 50mm 1.8 Zuiko lens.
Indeed you can, a very nice camera!
The om20/omg is really underrated compared to the other om line cameras, but it shoots in auto/manual and is built well. I don't get why?
Thanks for the informative video!
I love the Olympus point and shoot cameras for their appearance, but to just rely on symbols fir focussing wouldn't be my cup of tea.
I recently considered the Nikon FM as a present for my younger brother who's got quite some Nikon lenses of different age (while I'm more of a Pentaxian) but hasn't got an analog camera yet. I'll see ...
Looking forward to your next videos.
As you develop your black and white films yourself (if I understood right),
a video on that topic would be appreciated!
I've been thinking about a video on developing - stay tuned! Glad you enjoyed this one.
Hi Zenography, another great video as per usual👍, I recently purchased just before Christmas my first rangefinder camera as I normally shoot slr’s.
The camera in question is a Yashica Lynx 14E 1C with a 45mm F1.4. It needs a CLA but definitely looking forward to shooting this beast.
That Yashica Lynx sounds nice - enjoy!
@@zenography7923 Thank you 🙏
Большое спасибо за Ваш прекрасный обзор! Но, где же Ваша старая добрая немецкая Praktica с Вашим любимым объективом Pancolar?
Ну, это было так много просмотрено, что я решил немного передохнуть! Спасибо, что заглянули.
As always, thumbs up / Ulf
Hey Ulf, thanks for looking in, I hope all's well with you, glad you enjoyed the episode!
Nice collection indeed. May I have you address, in order to arrange a burglary? :-)
I'll put the kettle on. You don't mind if I invite the police too? Might seem rude not to! :)
After decades shooting film when that was all there was, it just became too much trouble and expense to continue shooting film where I live in Indonesia. As a Kodachrome shooter primarily, that era came to an abrupt end too soon for me. It is good to see a new generation of photographers discovering film and film cameras, but I could never justify going back to film.
Not everyone's cup of tea I don't suppose! Thanks for looking in.
Have you tried adapting the Nikon lenses to use on digital? I've recently inherited my fathers old Nikon F3 and bought some lenses for it, including the 50mm 1.4 ais, I'd like to know if you have tried them out, I think an adapter may need another element to compensate for the lenses to film distance.
It depends what you want to adapt them to. Adapting to mirrorless cameras (eg Sony A7, Fuji X, Micro Four Thirds etc) is simple and easy, with only a simple adaptor, with no extra elements, required. Adapting to DSLRs may be difficult without a special adaptor.
@@zenography7923 excellent, It would be to go on my apsc Canon M50, Imagine a portrait using that setup? More blur than you can shake a stick at! 😀
T70 - my first more pro camera
Very cool in its day, and still pretty groovy now!
Thanks, Zenography! I was wondering what my photography hobby would lead to next, but I found the next step with this video. I watched this video in the morning and by midday I found myself thinking about that Yashica 35 Electro. By the afternoon I was checking eBay for one, and by evening I remembered seeing a couple of Yashica cameras at a local antique mall, so I drove over to check them out. I am now sitting with a Yashica Electro 35 GS on my desk, looking for information on what film to use. I am excited to try it out and use a (non-disposable) film camera for the first time! (Also, it seems to have come with a battery set up in it, at least, and doesn’t look too bad for $45 US)
Welcome to the Electro club - you got yours for a good price too! It's a fairly simple camera to use, being an auto exposure only camera so the only thing you'll need to get used to is the rangefinder focussing system, which is pretty simple too! Enjoy!
i have a yashica electro gsn
my poor man's leica camera.
an underrated cheap viewfinder camera.
Indeed it is, such a stylish camera, and I'm looking forward to seeing what that lens can do!
Actually, Canon T70 came out in 1884 (😱) while T90 came out a couple of years later, so T70 was indeed state of the art camera.
But since Minolta released their first auto focussing model in 1985 (model 7000) Canon had to act fast so in 1987 it already came out with the first camera of EOS series, the EOS 650.
It's funny, you say Nikon FM & FE are a big cameras, while back in the day they where considered rather small. At least for Nikon standards.
I'm disappointed that there's no OM1 in your lineup, but you've redeemed yourself with those Pen models 😉
And with the X-T3 of course...
The Pen half frame is an unassuming little thing, but it's grown on me. Stay tuned for the X-T3!
It is very frustrating that he doesn’t mention the camera model. On the first Canon SLR, he never mentions the name at all.
I'm so sorry - it's the Canon T70!
Oh, and aren't Nikon point and shoots just magical. I bought a Nikon TW20 from a house clearance auction for an embarrassingly low price and it feels incredible in the hand... everything about it is premiere league.
Great little cameras for sure - enjoy!
"Fullframe" is a stupid moniker, when the #1 36x24mm Sensor DSLRs arrived ( EOS 1Ds, 11 MP, 2002) - but the world's #1 was the mightly Contax N Digital (announced: 2000) with it's flawed Philips 6 MP Sensor. Back to the Filmdays - that Format, 36x24mm, was being called "Small picture Format", created by Oskar Barnack for the Ur-Leica - and was being considered inferior, because people at the time have been Shooting Large Format, and also Medium Format Sizes. So much about the history ;)
There are many great SLRs, and even Rangefinders (Film - of course) being avialable, which you can choose from...so pick you poison, take your fave film, and enjoy.
Peace.
This is why film is on rise. Full frame digital is too expensive. Good one cost around 3k with technology will be behind in 4-5 years. And some people like me too scared to bring outside. 35mm film is a full frame that cost 1/10 digital one. And i dont mind bringing my camera outside
I few of your prices are out unfortunately.
Buy it now prices are likely to be higher, but check out completed sales and you might be surprised. Patience pays off, and the bargains are out there!
Cut the nails?
Okay - not too much though as that's my ukelele hand!
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