Click to view our Accessibility Statement or contact us with accessibility-related questions
Showing 1 of 40 conversations about:
Logic77
41
Mar 31, 2018
bookmark_border
I am getting into film cameras and I wanted to get some suggestions on good cameras to start out with. I was looking at the Minolta x-700 and the AE-1 Program. Which one of these would be cheaper to use in the long run (lense wise, aftermarket stuff, etc)? Any suggestions on other ones?
Mar 31, 2018
ZeeDan
180
Mar 31, 2018
bookmark_border
Logic77I would probably lean toward the Canon. There were two great 35mm camera companies, Nikon and Canon. Second tier was Minolta, Pentax, Olympus, Yashica, etc. There were so many Canon cameras made, aftermarket lenses, and all that other good stuff.
Not sure cheapest is the best way to look at this. Quality and how does it fit in your hand are far more important. Be sure to put both of them in your hand before you buy. Remember, these are super heavy cameras compared to today. You might just hate both of them.
Either camera is a good choice, as long as they are in good repair.
Mar 31, 2018
Dr.McCoy
345
Apr 1, 2018
bookmark_border
Logic77The Minolta is cheaper and better - and honestly I'd get a Minolta x-570 if you can. It's a bit more modern and has better VF info.
Apr 1, 2018
TiffanyPoodleslide
1402
May 10, 2018
bookmark_border
Logic77Minolta. I have worked Minolta since forever ago, and both of my Minolta film cameras work very well. The wind mechanisms still function correctly with no jamming, and the lenses available are very good. With proper adaptors, you can even use superior lenses on the Minolta box. You can find Minoltas at very excellent prices on eBay... look for Adorama offerings, as they generally refurb up any used cameras they sell. I also like B&H Photo. Getting a "vintage" film camera that's already been cleaned up and made mechanically sound is more valuable than I can say. Save you a lot of grief and money in the end. Before you get started... make sure you know where you will get film , where you'll get it developed etc. Taking a course at a college or community college might be very valuable to you. Look at the website "I Still Shoot Film". Good forum, good recommends.
May 10, 2018
ttaubert
1
Aug 12, 2018
bookmark_border
Logic77Older film cameras frequently have problems with lights seals, mirror dampers, shutter speeds, and metering (that's about the whole camera). Some camera stores that sell used will offer a return policy if something isn't working. I guess avoiding frustration is the first step. Lenses can have mold, scratches and gummed up or oily blades. God it's almost like buying a used car. I guess the cheapest to use would be one that works. :)
Aug 12, 2018
View Full Discussion
Related Posts
Trending Posts in More Community Picks