Ricoh 500GX 35 mm Camera Review with Sample Photos in England! | The Best Compact Film Camera for Travel

(By using the affiliate links and/or codes in this blog post it supports Myles Katherine Photography. We may get a small kick back by you doing so.)

When I was planning my 16 day trip to England, where we’d be hiking 102 miles along the Cotswold Way National Trail, I knew I needed to choose my cameras very carefully. Not only would I be carrying them the entire time, but I was also potentially encountering various types of weather and lighting. I have a tendency to bring at least 6 cameras with my on my international trips, but I wanted this specific trip to challenge me to downsize. And let me tell you, it was difficult. Of course, I knew I was going to bring my Holga 120 GCFN as my medium format camera and my Canon G7X Mark II as my point and shoot digital camera, but I was having a hard time finding the ultimate 35 mm camera for this sort of adventure. That is, until I found the Ricoh 500GX.

THE STORY BEHIND MY SEARCH

I spent days researching 35 mm cameras. I made spreadsheets. I used Chat GPT like it was my job. When I’m looking for a new camera, there are always a few features I absolutely cannot live without. If you’ve been following me for a while, you know that I’m obsessed with multiple exposures. Searching for 35 mm film cameras that easily can create multiple exposures isn’t an easy task. For most people, that feature isn’t a deal breaker. But for me, on a 102 mile hike, it was absolutely a deal breaker. The other feature that was necessary for this trip was a super lightweight and small body. I didn’t want to weigh myself down and make the hike any harder than it had to be. I considered taking my Nikon FE2, one of my favorite vintage 35 mm cameras (you can read more about it on my blog here), but it was a bit too bulky to fit in my tiny camera bag I had purchased for this trip. I had also already decided which point and shoot 35 mm camera I was going to take (don’t worry, I have a full blog post coming about that camera too!) but I wanted to bring along a second 35 mm camera that was higher quality with sharper images and a better lens.

I was also working with a very specific budget. I was hoping to stay within the $200-300 range. There were plenty of cameras out there closer to $500 or $1000 that I would have loved to buy, but I’d already spent way too much money on gear for the hike. (P.S. I have a full YouTube series and downloadable PDF all about our hike, if you’re interested!)

I almost pulled the trigger on the Rollei QZ 35T but when I realized that the camera body wasn’t super durable and would not fare well in a rainstorm, it became too risky to spend that much money on a camera for this particular trip.

Typically, I prefer an aperture priority setting on my cameras. However, when I stumbled upon the Ricoh 500GX, it seemed to cover all of the topics I mentioned above, but it had a shutter priority setting instead. Not ideal, but still a partially automatic setting that would allow me to take photos quickly and easily. We had a lot of miles to cover every day, so I couldn’t spend the entire time fiddling with manual settings for every photo. The Ricoh 500GX was also super tiny and was known for it’s durable metal body. The original version of this camera (which also tends to be easier to find) doesn’t have a multiple exposure feature, but the Ricoh 500GX has a designated multiple exposure lever on the front of the camera. It’s also known for it’s sharp Rikenon 40 mm f/2.8 lens. The lens is built-in and non-detachable, which also helps to keep the camera small and compact.

HISTORY

The Ricoh 500GX was released around 1977 in Japan (somehow I always end up choosing Japanese cameras!) and was sold throughout the 1980s. It’s considered a compact 35 mm rangefinder camera and was one of the last styles in the 500-series line that was produced. The Ricoh brand wasn’t quite as popular as some of the bigger brands, which allowed it’s price point to stay relatively low. But that’s precisely why it’s a great camera. You get high quality for a low price.

WHY THE RICOH 500GX IS SPECIAL

Not only is it good value for the price, it also offers a few smaller features that most 35 mm cameras didn’t offer at the time. Some of these might seem like minor conveniences, but they truly make a difference. The Ricoh 500GX has a battery check light, a shutter lock (to help prevent the shutter from firing accidentally), a bulb setting for long exposures, a tripod mount, a film-loading indicator, a shutter indicator, and a “coupled” rangefinder focusing system. A coupled rangefinder allows for more precise focusing because the focus ring is mechanically linked to the actual rangefinder system. It can take some patience to get used to manual focus, particularly when it comes to a rangefinder, but this is a great camera to learn manual focus and get comfortable with it. Just as an FYI, the 500GX takes a PX675 mercury battery that is not made anymore. You do not need a battery to use the camera, but it will make the light meter work. The shutter priority setting does not fully function either without a battery, though I seemed to manage just fine in the Cotswolds without a battery in the camera. A modern replacement of the PX675 battery would be a PR44 battery.

All of these features are on top of the shutter priority, compact and durable metal body, sharp f/2.8 lens, and the multiple exposure lever that comes with the 500GX model. It’s a perfect blend between a point and shoot camera and a larger, more professional SLR camera.

HOW TO CREATE MULTIPLE EXPOSURES

I’m so glad I did a test roll before bringing it with me on my trip, because I quickly discovered that my multiple exposure knob was completely stuck and wasn’t functioning at all. My husband and I spent an entire day trying to loosen it. We tried rubbing alcohol, goo gone, grease, everything. The joys of vintage cameras! I swear, someone must have glued the knob in the closed position. I’m not surprised though, because if you’re not a fan of multiple exposures and the setting annoys you, I can see someone getting sick of it and gluing it shut. In order to use the multiple exposure setting, you have to first twist a small circular lock knob into the green, “open” position. This will free the multiple exposure lever, which you then slide into the direction of the arrow until you feel it stop. This has re-cocked the shutter and you can take another photo. Just make sure not to wind the advance lever until you’ve taken your second exposure. In my case, we were able to slowly move the circular knob into the open position (with a LOT of pressure), but it is permanently stuck there. So, essentially, my camera is always primed for the multiple exposure setting. In a fully functioning 500GX, the circular knob would automatically switch back to the red, “closed” position after you’ve taken your second image. I don’t really understand why Ricoh felt the need to make it a two-step process, but I’m just glad that I was able to get mine working!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Looking back on my trip, I don’t think I could have found a more perfect 35 mm camera. While the camera was actually a bit heavier than I’d anticipated, it’s because the body is incredibly sturdy and rugged, ideal for a hike with unpredicatable weather and rugged hillsides. On the flip side, it was much smaller and more compact than I expected, which I absolutely love, of course. I was able to bring 4 cameras with me that somehow magically fit inside my tiny camera bag. I posted a full YouTube video about the various cameras I brought with me. You can watch it on my channel here!

I also just think the camera itself is so beautiful and classic. The black and silver styling, the cute tiny lens, the sharp edges. It’s one of my favorite cameras to look at, that’s for sure. Not to mention, the satisfying click that you get with those vintage 35 mm cameras every time the shutter releases. There’s just nothing like it!

I know with 100% certainty that this camera will be going with me on many more trips. Because it’s so compact, there’s really no excuse for not bringing it with me everywhere! I dropped it into a field of cow manure on our trip and it came out without a scratch! I have a tendency to drop my cameras, so the fact that it is such a sturdy little thing is a major plus for me. And while I’m not as comfortable with shutter priority as I am with aperture priority, I got used to it quickly and I was able to get the images I wanted with some thoughtful planning. I could rave about this camera all day because it really is amazing for the price. I truly think this one flies under the radar so make sure to snatch one up as soon as possible! I’ve included tons of sample photos below from our trip so make sure to browse through to help you decide if this camera is for you!

WHERE TO FIND THE RICOH 500GX OR RICOH 500G

RICOH 500GX

Etsy

eBay

RICOH 500G & 500 (no multiple exposure option, but easier to find)

Etsy

eBay

KEH Camera

RECOMMENDED FILM STOCK

Kodak Portra 400 35 mm

Amazon

B&H Photo

Kodak Portra 160 35 mm

Amazon

B&H Photo

Kodak Gold 200

Amazon

B&H Photo

Lomography Color Negative 400

Amazon

B&H Photo

Ilford HP5 Black and White

Amazon

B&H Photo

You can read more about my favorite color 35 mm film stocks here or my favorite black and white film stocks here!

If you found this post helpful or inspiring, I’d love it if you considered signing up for my Patreon! For as little as $1 a month, you’ll get early access to all of my YouTube videos, plus tons of photos that I don’t post anywhere else. Depending on which tier you choose, you could also receive seasonal prints and/or discounts! I always use all of the proceeds towards cameras, film & processing.

If you have any questions, I’m always happy to help! You can contact me here, or leave a comment below! Thanks so much for stopping by! You can also check out my B&H Photo storefront & Amazon Storefront for more camera/film recommendations. :) Have a magical day!

<3 Myles Katherine

(By using the affiliate links and/or codes in this blog post it supports Myles Katherine Photography. We may get a small kick back by you doing so.)

15 Best Digital Cameras for Beginner Photographers under $1500 | Top Entry-level Cameras from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm & More!

I get asked this question a LOT, and I totally get it. Most people aren’t interested in a super professional camera that costs an arm and a leg. They want a camera that they can use to capture their family vacations, their kid’s sports games, or their family get-togethers. But they also want beautiful photographs that are worthy of hanging on the wall. Yes, cell phones these days can take decently good photos, but they aren’t super great for blowing up larger and spending money on a frame. If you’re ready for an upgrade from your iPhone, this list is for you!

I included a blend of point-and-shoot cameras, DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm & others. And if you’re over the big brands, I’ve included a few from Panasonic, OM System, Ricoh, and Leica. So, depending on which brand or style you prefer, hopefully this list will help guide you in the right direction. All of these cameras offer a lot for the price and tend to lean towards the more professional side of photography. But, just because they are more “professional”, doesn’t mean they aren’t approachable. There are cameras on this list that you can get as low as $400 if you’re open to buying a used camera. Buying used gear doesn’t mean you can’t get a camera in incredible condition. I always recommend buying used gear through KEH Camera or B&H Photo because they have a detailed rating system and are honest about the condition of the gear. Plus, they both have excellent customer service if you have any issues along the way. And just remember, your iPhone probably cost $1000-$1500, and with these cameras, you’re getting a LOT more bang for your buck in terms of photo quality and functionality. Plus, if you want to hang one in a photography gallery, you can do that too! :)

So, without further ado, here are the 15 Best Digital Cameras for Beginner Photographers Under $1500!

(By using the affiliate links and/or codes in this blog post it supports Myles Katherine Photography. We may get a small kick back by you doing so.)

1. Canon 6D or 6D Mark II - DSLR

I have to start off with a Canon camera because this is my tried and true brand. I’ve been shooting with Canon since the very beginning of my photography career. At times, I’ve considered entirely switching my set-up to another brand just to try something different, but after weighing all of my options, it always comes back to Canon. It’s because they offer the best budget to quality ratio, in my opinion. There are also certain features that I’m looking for in my main cameras, like multiple exposures, affordability, and color tone. There’s something about Canon’s standard color temperature that looks natural, but with a hint of mystery. The colors are a bit darker than some of the other cameras, which is why it appeals to me. If you’re more interested in bright, saturated color tones, I’d probably recommend a Sony option. Now, keep in mind the Canon 6D or 6D Mark II is a DSLR. This means it’s quite a bit bulkier than a point-and-shoot, and you have to buy a separate lens. But, there are a handful of lenses out there that are quite small and can actually make this camera pretty easy to walk around with. I recommend the Canon EF 50 mm f/1.4 or f/1.8. The Canon 6D was my main camera for nearly a decade. I feel like this might surprise people because it is a more low-budget professional Canon camera. The more recent version of the camera, the 6D Mark II, sells for around $1200 but the reason it’s on this list is because you can get a gently used one for an amazing price these days. I highly recommend KEH camera, which is a company that sells used gear and is super helpful if there is ever a problem. You can also pick up a used version on eBay, just make sure you’re going through a reputable seller with good reviews, and read their description carefully. And ask the most important question, what is the shutter count on the camera? This can tell you a lot about whether the camera was used or if it’s in practically new condition.

You can read my full blog post and review about the Canon 6D here!

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON 6D

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON 6D MARK II

Amazon

B&H Photo

KEH Camera (used)

2. Canon Powershot G7X Mark II - Point-and-shoot

Yes, this camera is difficult to get your hands on these days, and usually it’s at an up charge. But keep your eyes open for a used one on KEH camera, because this tiny little point-and-shoot packs a punch. I’ve actually taken it on my last two European vacations, instead of my bulky DSLR camera. You can check out my full blog post about this camera here! And surprisingly, the auto setting works really well, particularly for landscapes or outdoor photos. If you’re using it for indoor sports or something like that, I’d recommend using the shutter priority setting. Basically, you set the shutter speed, which you’d want to be fairly fast (like 1/500th or 1/800th) so that you don’t get too much blur, and then it will automatically set the other settings. The amazing thing about this camera is that the aperture goes as wide as f/1.8. This means it can perform great in low light and can create beautiful portraits with lovely background blur. It might take some learning when it comes to using that setting, because it can become more difficult to get your subject in focus, or to not have the highlights blown out. It’s a great camera to learn on though, because it does have the option of shutter priority, aperture priority, manual and lots of others! A lot of times, people ask me what to get instead of the Canon G7X Mark II, since it’s difficult to find. I’d recommend the Sony RX 100 VII (read more about this one below), or the ZV-1, ZV-1 II or ZV-1F for lower budget options.

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON POWERSHOT G7X MARK II

Amazon

KEH Camera (used)

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON G7X MARK III

eBay

Amazon

KEH Camera (used)

3. Canon EOS RP - Mirrorless

The Canon EOS RP is a newer budget professional Canon camera, so it offers some more trendy features than the older Canon 6D Mark II. But keep in mind, when the Canon 6D Mark II first came out, it was a $2000 camera, whereas the Canon EOS RP was originally $1299. Now, you can get the Canon EOS RP for around $800, which is an amazing price for what you get. The EOS RP is a mirrorless camera, which is a more modern kind of camera than a DSLR. It also means you have to use Canon’s RF line of lenses. They are the newest line of lenses and are known to be a bit sharper than the older EF lenses. Also, because this camera is newer, it also offers better video than the Canon 6D Mark II, but it actually has the same sensor and ISO range (low-light sensitivity)! However, the 6D Mark II offers better battery life, build quality, burst shooting (important for sports action), and EF lens compatibility. These options are important for event photographers and wildlife photographers, who need longer battery life and build quality that will withstand more extreme conditions. If you’re looking for a step up from the RP, I highly recommend the Canon R8. It’s about $1400 new but it has more modern features and really competes with some of the best mirrorless cameras out there.

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON EOS RP

Amazon

B&H Photo

KEH Camera (used)

4. Canon 5D Mark IV - DSLR

This is actually my current camera, and I truly can’t believe that price you can get for a used version of this camera through KEH camera. A new 5D Mark IV costs around $2200 these days, but when it was first released, it was $3500!!! The reason these have drastically reduced in price is because of the introduction of the mirrorless cameras. Personally, I still prefer the DSLRs because I find them to be sturdier, more user-friendly and longer-lasting. My had my first Canon camera, the 5D Mark II, for 10 years and I never had an issue with it. And I definitely dropped it more times than I could count. They are truly built to last. The mirrorless cameras often have more breakable screens, more electronic functions that can glitch out more easily, and just aren’t as tried and true. I suppose we’ll find out if they stand the test of time, but you’re more likely to get a camera without issues by going with a DSLR, even if it’s used. I have the Canon EOS R, Canon’s first mirrorless camera, and I've had a ton of issues with it, mostly just functionality issues that they’ve adjusted since then, but I tend to recommend DSLR’s over mirrorless still to this day. If you can get a used 5D Mark IV for a good price, you’re competing with some incredible photographers that also use this as their main camera!

I have a full blog post and review with sample photos of the 5D Mark IV here!

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON 5D MARK IV

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

5. Nikon Z5 - Mirrorless

The Nikon Z5 is Nikon’s entry-level mirrorless camera, so if you’d prefer to go with a more modern camera than the old-school DSLR’s and Nikon is your brand, this is a great option. The Z5 is about $1100 new, but again, you can get a used one for an amazing price through KEH camera. The Z5 is super compact too, so if you don’t want to stand out too much when you’re on vacation or at your kid’s sports game, this is a perfect option. You’ll still get 4K video, a surprisingly good ISO range, and great autofocus. The standout features are really the in-body image stabilization, dual card slots, and lightweight body. While I don’t have as much experience with Nikon, they are Canon’s main arch nemesis, and have always stood the test of time. I have a 35 mm Nikon film camera, the Nikon FE2, that I’m absolutely obsessed with. They have great lens options and simply won’t let you down.

WHERE TO BUY THE NIKON Z5

Amazon

B&H Photo

KEH Camera (used)

6. Nikon D750 - DSLR

For years, this was the camera that I swear every photographer was using. It’s a DSLR similar to the Canon 5D Mark III or 6D that is sturdy, professional and reliable. Since Nikon is also shifting towards mirrorless cameras, you can get the D750 for an incredible price. Originally $2300, you can now pick up a new one for around $1700. But the reason I put it on this list is because you can get one in excellent condition from KEH camera for as low as $700. I feel like used gear always freaks people out, but that’s why I recommend KEH camera or B&H Photo for used gear. The employees know a LOT about cameras and photography and can totally help you out if there’s ever an issue.

WHERE TO BUY THE NIKON D750

B&H Photo

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

7. Sony A7 II or III - Mirrorless

The Sony A7 III is an extremely popular camera these days because it has amazing video, image quality, autofocus, battery life, dual card slots, a compact body and in-body image stabilization. A lot of people might argue it’s the best all-around camera out there these days. The great thing is, it’s only $1500 new! While that does not include a lens, you can go for a kit that includes a lens, which usually saves you a bit of money in the long run. Again, that’s why I’d check out the used options on KEH or B&H if you want the best deal. I promise you, you don’t need to be afraid of used gear! I just recommend always getting one in excellent or excellent+ condition. You basically want it to be in as new of condition as possible. The lower price point ones in “good” condition might seem appealing, but you just never know the history of the camera.

WHERE TO BUY THE SONY A7 II

eBay

KEH Camera (used)

WHERE TO BUY THE SONY A7 III

KEH Camera (used)

B&H Photo (used)

eBay

8. Sony A6700 - Mirrorless

The Sony a6700 has been on my list for a while now because it’s super compact, has amazing video, and has an excellent autofocus system. Sony has really been carving their own path in the camera industry and in my opinion, is very much challenging Canon and Nikon. I’m not mad about it though because it has made Canon and Nikon really amp up their gear and keep it relevant. I feel like they both were coasting for a while as the two main camera brands, but now they finally have some competition. The a6700 is particularly great if you’re trying to capture motion or sports, and if video is more important to you than photos. If you’re starting a YouTube channel, or are interested in capturing slo-mo, the a6700 is for you.

WHERE TO BUY THE SONY A6700

Amazon

B&H Photo

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

9. Sony RX100 VII - Point-and-shoot

If I could choose any camera off this list that I don’t already have, it would be this one. The only reason I haven’t really invested in Sony is because their cameras don’t offer multiple exposure. To most people, this feature isn’t important, so if you’re really looking for a super relevent, modern, point-and-shoot camera, this is the one. It’s $1700 new, but a used version goes for around $1500. And what’s nice about this one is that you don’t have to worry about buying a separate lens! It’s a point-and-shoot, so the lens is part of the camera and can’t be removed. You just point, and shoot! It’s perfect for family vacations, being inconspicuous at a sports event, throwing in your bag for a simple outing, or capturing beautiful group portraits at family events. It’s similar to the Canon G7X Mark II in a lot of ways, but better for capturing motion, better battery life, and an even smaller body. It’s a great option if you’re having a hard time finding a G7X Mark II.

WHERE TO BUY THE SONY RX100 VII

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

10. Fujifilm X-S20 - Mirrorless

I always describe Fujifilm cameras as a great option for the photographer who craves creative control, unique images, and a break from the norm. Fujifilm is really known for their film cameras, which is why their digital cameras are so fun. The often have fun film-simulation modes built-in, which allows you to create images that are film-like and that stand out from the traditional digital look that you find with all of the other cameras on this list. And the Fujifilm X-S20 actually has incredible video, a compact body, and lots of other great features that particularly are great for vloggers or YouTubers.

WHERE TO BUY THE FUJIFILM X-S20

Amazon

B&H Photo

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

11. Fujifilm X100V - Point-and-shoot / Rangefinder

The X100V is the sort of the point-and-shoot Fujifilm option with a fixed lens and super compact body. If you like the idea of the film simulation modes and a built-in fixed lens, then this might be a better option. The Fujifilm X100V is beloved in the film community for a lot of reasons, such as the retro-style camera body, the beautiful 23mm f/2 fixed lens and 4K video. While the X-S20 has better video, it’s not as compact or “pretty” to look at. The X-S20 is a DSLR, while this is more like a portable point-and-shoot. It’s just a fun camera to carry around and it makes you excited to take photographs. It doesn’t feel embarrassingly large or “serious”. It’s quirky and special! Because these are highly coveted, it can be difficult to get your hands on one, but KEH camera sometimes has a bargain option for around $1500. I recommend keeping your eye out and waiting for a good deal because it’s really just a classic camera to have in your collection.

WHERE TO BUY THE FUJIFILM X100V

eBay (used)

KEH Camera (used)

12. Panasonic LUMIX LX100 II - Point-and-shoot / Mirrorless

The Panasonic LX100 II is actually pretty similar to the camera I just mentioned, the Fujifilm X100V. It’s a compact camera with a fixed lens but for a lower price. It might not be as highly sought after, but it offers a lot of the same features. The main differences are that the Panasonic LX100 II actually has a bit of zoom to the lens, which is better for travel or capturing sports. It also has better image stabilization and a smaller, lighter body. The main positive attribute of this camera is the price. You can get a used one for around $1200 (if you can find one…)! And don’t forget, this includes the lens since it’s built in! Not to mention, it’s a Leica lens, which are known for being ultra sharp. With only 17 megapixel images, the the image quality overall isn’t quite as good as a lot of cameras on this list, but the price is less stressful than investing in a full DSLR and lens set-up or an overpriced point-and-shoot like the Canon G7X Mark II. The lens is a f/1.7 to f/2.8 aperture though, which does increase the capabilities of the camera in low light.

WHERE TO BUY THE PANASONIC LUMIX LX100 II

eBay (used)

KEH Camera (used)

13. Panasonic LUMIX S5 - Mirrorless

The Panasonic LUMIX S5 is a full-frame mirrorless camera that fits in more with the Canon EOS RP or Nikon Z5. This means it’s a bit bulkier, requires a separate lens purchase, and is geared more towards professional photographers. It’s on the higher end of the pricepoint spectrum, but still fits on this list if you buy it used! It’s a full-frame mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilites, in-body image stabilization, and a rugged, sturdy body. This is a pro level hybrid camera, so its great for both photo and video. It really has all of the features you need to start a photography or video career if you’re really serious about investing in your future. It’s honestly a great price for what you get and is actually lighter and smaller than most full-frame DSLRs!

WHERE TO BUY THE PANASONIC LUMIX S5

Amazon

B&H Photo

KEH Camera (used)

14. OM System OM-5 - Mirrorless

I’ve recently been doing a lot more research into the OM system cameras after my visit to the B&H Bild Expo in New York City. I was chatting with one of the associates in the OM booth and learned a lot about their brand. The OM System cameras are particularly amazing for travel because of their super durable weather-sealed design. The autofocus is great and the burst shooting goes up to 30 fps, which is incredible for nature photography and capturing things like fluttering birds wings. I’d definitely recommend this camera particularly to hikers, nature photographers and travel photographers because it has a lot of other features like a Starry Sky autofocus mode and built-in neutral density filters to help capture things like waterfalls and waves. It also has an interesting “hand-held high-res shot” that allows for images up to 50 megapixels by combining multiple shots into one.

WHERE TO BUY THE OM SYSTEM OM-5

Amazon

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

15. Ricoh GR III - Point-and-shoot

This one can be a bit difficult to find as well, similar to the other point-and-shoot cameras on this list. But Ricoh is a brand I’ve been getting into lately, especially with their film cameras. The Ricoh GR III is a premium point-and-shoot camera that is compact and travel-friendly, with great image stabilization and low-light performance. What makes it really stand out though is the image quality and sharpness. As a Japanese company, their attention to optics is pretty unmatched. They’ve always been known for their sharp lenses and durable camera bodies. While they don’t release as many cameras as Canon or Sony, they pay attention to detail and create cameras that are worth the wait.

WHERE TO BUY THE RICOH GR III

Amazon

eBay (used)

KEH Camera (used)

BONUS OPTION!


16. Leica D-Lux 7 - Point-and-shoot

Point-and-shoot cameras are incredibly popular these days so I wanted to include one more that stands out to me. While the Leica D-Lux 7 has to be purchased used to fit in the $1500 price point, it does include the lens since it’s a point-and-shoot! Leica cameras in general are beautiful and stylish, with that retro old-school film camera look. While I have yet to own one because they tend to be overpriced for the specs that you get, this one is somewhat affordable and keeps up with the others in this price point. Their lenses are known for being super sharp and are made with premium materials since they are somewhat considered a “luxury” brand. If you really want a camera that feels special and great in your hands, the Leica cameras are truly beautiful. Also, if you’re looking for a gift for a photographer, no one is going to turn down a Leica!

WHERE TO BUY THE LEICA D-LUX 7

eBay (used)

KEH Camera (used)

If you found this post helpful or inspiring, I’d love it if you considered signing up for my Patreon! For as little as $1 a month, you’ll get early access to all of my YouTube videos, plus tons of photos that I don’t post anywhere else. Depending on which tier you choose, you could also receive seasonal prints and/or discounts! I always use all of the proceeds towards cameras, film & processing.

If you have any questions, I’m always happy to help! You can contact me here, or leave a comment below! Thanks so much for stopping by! You can also check out my B&H Photo storefront & Amazon Storefront for more camera/film recommendations. :) Have a magical day!

<3 Myles Katherine

Minolta AF Tele 35 mm Camera Review with Kodak UltraMax 400 Sample Photos in San Diego, California

(By using the affiliate links and/or codes in this blog post it supports Myles Katherine Photography. We may get a small kick back by you doing so.)

When I stumbled across the Minolta AF Tele in an antique shop and noticed it was fully functioning, I knew I’d found a gem. I’m always on the hunt for vintage point-and-shoot cameras because they are great for traveling and because they each have their own character and vibe when it comes to the photos. I have another 35 mm Minolta camera, the Minolta Maxxum STsi, which is one of my all-time favorite 35 mm cameras. You can read my full review of that camera here! Before the Minolta Maxxum STsi, I’d never had any experience with Minolta cameras, but I’m started to learn that they are definitely a standout when it comes to vintage cameras.

I decided to take the Minolta AF Tele with me on a recent trip to San Diego and I’m obsessed with how the images turned out. Not only was it incredibly easy to use, the photographs also have the perfect retro film vibe that I wanted for my California photos.

HISTORY

The Minolta AF Tele was originally produced in the late 1980s to early 1990s and was created as an accessible camera for beginners and professionals alike. The specific model of the camera featured in this blog post was manufactured in Japan. You can check the bottom of the camera for an imprint to see where yours was produced! The Minolta brand, in general, is a Japanese company, though some of the Minolta cameras are manufactured in other countries as well. I’ve learned over the years that if I see that a camera was produced in Japan, it’s usually a slam dunk. They also typically have a nice aesthetic design and seemingly last forever.

Point-and-shoot cameras really started to gain traction in the 1980s so it was a bit of a competition between all of the major camera companies to produce amazing compact film cameras that were easy to use for the average consumer. The Minolta AF Tele was one of those cameras, though maybe not quite as popular as cameras like the Canon Sure Shot ( I’m still on the hunt for one of these). I find it to be unique and interesting and I definitely never plan to give mine up!

FEATURES

The standout feature of this camera is it’s dual lens system. While it is a compact camera, the lens has two different focal lengths that you can easily switch between. There is a 35 mm f/2.8 lens and a 60 mm f/4.3 telephoto lens. There are other versions of this camera, like the Minolta AF Tele Super, that have slightly different lens options built into the camera.

The Minolta AF Tele also has a built-in flash, a fill-flash button, a self-timer, auto advance, auto rewind, and a tripod mount. This camera is fully autofocus, so there is no need to worry about taking the time to manually focus. However, this also means there are really no manual features at all, so you’re a bit limited when it comes to creativity.

There is also no option for multiple exposures. There is a film rewind button on the bottom of the camera, but it rewinds the film roll all the way back to the beginning, so you will be shooting over your entire roll. While you can still overlap images in this way, it gives you way less control than a camera with a dedicated multiple exposure feature.

The fill-flash button is also a nice addition to the camera, especially if you are shooting with a subject that is back-lit. The main flash will automatically come on when the camera senses there is not enough light, but it’s nice to have the option to turn the fill-flash on when needed.

The camera will automatically set the ISO for your film as well, as long as the film is DX coded, which most films are.

It takes a Lithium CR-P2 battery or two AA batteries, which is a very interesting feature I’ve never seen before in a camera. But it’s definitely nice for those moments when your battery dies on you while traveling and AA batteries are the only ones you can find.

And obviously, one of the best things about these point-and-shoot cameras is that they are compact and easy to travel with! While the Minolta AF Tele is a bit more bulky that other cameras of its class, it is still a nice, small size compared to 35 mm cameras with detachable lenses and zoom lenses.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I’m kind of obsessed with this camera. The dual lens system is just plain fun to experiment with and gives you that little bit of extra zoom when you’re traveling if you see something farther away that you’d like to photograph. I’m also pleasantly surprised by the sharpness of the lens, especially at the 35 mm setting. It seems a little softer when using the 60 mm lens option. I’m a little bit bummed that there is no multiple exposure option, but I usually assume this is the case with most point-and-shoot cameras from that time period. It’s a rare feature that most people didn’t care for, particularly the average, everyday consumer. This camera is somewhat limited in terms of creativity, considering it doesn’t have any manual features other than the fill-flash, but it’s still a super fun point-and-shoot that is great for capturing candid moments with friends and family, and for traveling with a 35 mm film camera that doesn’t weigh a million pounds or take up a ton of space in your bag.

This is definitely one of those cameras I’ll just quickly grab when I’m running out the door for a family day or a night out with friends. I’m sure it will be joining me on many more trips in the future too. If you see this one out in the wild, snatch it up! I got lucky and found mine for $20, but it seems that the average going rate is about $25 to $70. I’d pick one of these up sooner rather than later if I were you, because these vintage point-and-shoots just keep getting more and more popular!

For these photos, I used Kodak UltraMax 400 35 mm film, but if you’d like more film recommendations, make sure to check out my blog post, The Best Color Film for 35 mm Cameras!

WHERE TO BUY THE MINOLTA AF TELE 35MM CAMERA

eBay

Etsy

Amazon

KEH Camera

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If you have any questions, I’m always happy to help! You can contact me here, or leave a comment below! Thanks so much for stopping by! You can also check out my B&H Photo storefront & Amazon Storefront for more camera/film recommendations. :) Have a magical day!

<3 Myles Katherine

SAMPLE PHOTOS


And of course, I have to share all of my favorite photos from my trip to San Diego with you!!!