The Best Black Friday & Cyber Weekend Deals for Photographers & Videographers in 2025 | Cameras, Computers & Gear!

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are actually two of my favorite days of the year. And not necessarily because of the shoppings deals, but because it’s typically the first weekend I get to relax after the busy fall photography season and Thanksgiving holiday stress. I plan to sit on the couch sipping hot chocolate, watching a holiday movie and browsing online for deals on items that I needed to buy for my business anyway. I love saving money any way that I can, so if there’s a camera or lens that I’ve been eyeing for a while, I always hold off until Cyber Weekend. There are a ton of incredible deals on Amazon & B&H Photo this year, so I figured I’d share all of the products I’ve been eyeing over the last few months. And if you’re looking for gift ideas for the photographer or videographer in your life, this may spark a few ideas for you!

(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. SONY A7 IV MIRRORLESS CAMERA

I recently had the opportunity to try out this camera (you can read my full blog post about it here) and I immediately missed it when it wasn’t in my possession anymore. The thing I love about Sony cameras is how small and compact they are, including the lenses. They are also perfect for photographer/videographer hybrid shooters. As someone who considers themselves a photographer, and not necessarily a videographer, the incredible autofocus of the Sony A7 IV made video creation SO EASY. I found myself wondering if maybe I could be a videographer and that maybe it isn’t quite as intimidating as I’ve been letting myself believe. It also has dual card slots, in-body image stabilization, 4K video up to 60 fps, live streaming functionality, a 33 MP full-frame sensor, and super fun color profiles you can experiment with. It’s majorly on sale this year through B&H Photo for $1998. It’s usually $2698! There’s also a bundle deal that includes a 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens for only $2198. Not to mention, it comes with a backpack, a memory card, and an extra battery! I’ve seriously been considering this deal for myself… We’ll see if I finally take the leap into the Sony world! If you’re on the hunt for something more like a point-and-shoot/vlog camera that is a bit more affordable, the Sony ZV-1F is $100 off on Amazon too!

WHERE TO BUY

SONY A7 IV

B&H Photo

SONY ZV-1F

Amazon

2. GO PRO HERO 13 CREATOR KIT

I always bring a Go Pro with me on my travels because they are SO super small and inconspicuous. They are way easier than using a giant video camera and are great for all weather conditions. They are quick to turn on so you never miss a moment, which has come in handy more times than I can count. I’ve used them for my YouTube channel, Cameras & Cats, for years. I have the Go Pro Hero 9 and I’m so ready for an upgrade. The Go Pro Hero 13 has up to 5.3K at 60 fps (insane!), 27 MP still photos, HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, and of course, a waterproof and rugged body for travel and action videos. Amazon is offering a Creator Kit, which includes everything you need for on-the-go content creation. I’m just absolutely amazed by what these tiny little cameras can do. I still remember my first Go Pro, and the first thing I said when I opened the box was, “It’s so tiny!!” As someone who is used to dragging giant DSLR cameras around with me, it’s always a nice break when I get to spend a day out and about with just my Go Pro.

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

B&H Photo

3. APPLE AIRPODS MAX WIRELESS OVER-EAR HEADPHONES

I just recently heard about the Apple Airpods Max headphones, and I need them ASAP. I love my AirPods, but I lose them constantly. My husband upgraded to the AirPods Pro Max with noise cancellation and I’ve been jealous ever since. The noise cancellation is a game-changer. You can experience music without the outside world interfering, and they are perfect for drowning out the airplane noises when you’re flying. Honestly, I much prefer over-ear headphones than in-ear Airpods, because I find my ears start to hurt after a little while. The Apple AirPods headphones come in a bunch of cute colors too. I kind of love the light purple ones personally! They are $120 off on Amazon for Black Friday/Cyber Monday. You can find them here!

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

4. APPLE IPAD 11-INCH WITH A16 CHIP

Not even joking, the Ipad I use is from 2013. I’ve been considering upgrading for a LONG time. For me, I actually use my iPad as a third screen when I’m working/editing photos. I haven’t upgraded yet because I don’t actually store any files on it, but it has to stay plugged in at all times because the battery is shot. So yes, it’s time for a new iPad for me, and I’m definitely floating the idea of this 11-inch iPad because it’s $75 off, which means it’s only $274. It’s probably about time to move on to a new iPad for me…

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

5. WD 14TB DESKTOP EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE

It’s kind of a bummer that every year I have to spend money on a new external hard drive because I fill them so quickly. But what’s not a bummer, is that they tend to go down in price every year. Somehow, you can get this 14 TB WD Hard drive for $169 at B&H Photo. 14 TB!!!! Umm, I’ll definitely be buying this, no questions asked. AND it’s USB 3.2 which means it’s super fast and that is SO important for photographers and videographers while editing. There’s also a Seagate 28 TB USB 3.0 External Hard Drive that’s $100 off too! So it depends on your budget and how much space you think you need, but I’ve had great experiences with both WD and Seagate drives.

WHERE TO BUY

WD 14 TB USB 3.2 EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE

B&H Photo

SEAGATE 28 TB USB 3.0 EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE

B&H Photo

6. SIGMA 24-70MM F/2.8 DG DN II ART LENS (SONY E)

When I was testing out the Sony A7 IV I mentioned above, I was using the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 Art Lens. It’s super small and light for a 28-70mm zoom lens, yet it still holds up to lenses like the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L II lens. You can check out tons of sample photos I took with the Sigma f/2.8 lens here. I always recommend zoom lenses, especially if you’re just starting out and you want ONE lens that is multi-purpose and can handle any sort of lighting scenario. The fact that it is f/2.8 means it’s great for low light, especially if you’re shooting indoor events or weddings. I used the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L lens as my main lens for over a decade. I just recently upgraded to the Canon RF 28-70 f/2.0, which is an INCREDIBLE lens (you can read a full review of it here), but is HUGE and weighs a million pounds. This Sigma zoom lens is just so light and easy to work with, which is a major factor for me. I’m not even lying, the Canon RF lens I just mentioned is so gigantic, I can barely hold it up for an extended period of time. If you’re wanting to get into professional photography and/or videography, Sony is really the way to go if you’re a small person or just want lightweight but high performance gear. However, if you are a Canon shooter, I highly recommend the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 which is $300 off on B&H Photo for Black Friday/Cyber Weekend too!

WHERE TO BUY

SIGMA 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II ART LENS

B&H Photo

CANON RF 24-70MM F/2.8 LENS

B&H Photo

7. FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI LINK 2 SMARTPHONE PRINTER BUNDLE

I already have an Instax Square printer that I use all the time to print photos out for my wedding clients, but I want the Instax Mini printer too! It’s only $80 on Amazon for Black Friday which is such a good deal. I use my Instax Square printer ALL THE TIME. You can literally print any photo you want from your phone and turn it into a little polaroid. It’s so much fun and is a great way to share photos with family and friends. No one has time to send photos to Walgreens anymore and go pick them up, so just save yourself the hassle and enjoy printing them yourself into adorable little prints you can hang on your fridge. :)

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

8. CANON EOS R6 MARK II

Ok, so if we’re talking about the one thing I really, really, really want this year, it’s the Canon R6 Mark II. I currently shoot with the Canon EOS R as my main mirrorless camera, and I love it, but there are a few things it’s missing that I could seriously benefit from. The R6 Mark II has dual card slots, in-body image stabilization and 4K video up to 60 fps. It also has better battery life and a more refined grip and body. And who knows, maybe I’ll really go for it and just upgrade to the Canon EOS R5 Mark II. That’s the dream, though it is significantly more expensive. The benefits with the R5 Mark II are higher resolution images, up to 8K video, more advanced autofocus, and a more pro-level photography game. The good news is that they are both on sale this year, with the R6 Mark II on sale for $1999 ($300 off) and the R5 Mark II at $3899 ($500 off)!!!

WHERE TO BUY

CANON EOS R6 MARK II

B&H Photo

Amazon

CANON EOS R5 MARK II

B&H Photo

9. APPLE 2025 MACBOOK AIR 15-INCH LAPTOP WITH M4 CHIP

Is it even Black Friday without a good Macbook deal? If you’re looking for a lightweight travel laptop that’s super fast with lots of storage, the 256 GB 15-inch Macbook Air is on sale for $949 on Amazon. In today’s world, I feel like getting a high-performing laptop under $1000 is kind of a miracle, so I’d take advantage of this deal while you can if you’re on the hunt for a Macbook Air. If you’re looking for a Macbook Pro, B&H Photo has a pretty sweet deal going on with the Macbook Pro 14-inch M4 at $1749.

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

10. POLAROID NOW GENERATION 3 INSTANT CAMERA

I recently received a Polaroid Now and I absolutely love it. I’m used to using vintage Polaroid cameras but now that I have a newer version that’s just as fun, I can safely store my vintage cameras away so they don’t get damaged at photo shoots. The Polaroid Now camera can take Polaroid i-Type or 600 film, which is nice because i-Type film is more affordable than 600 film. It comes in tons of different colors and is super cute. Not to mention, it’s only $100 this year on B&H Photo, which is truly the most perfect gift for any photographer. Polaroid cameras are special and will immediately make the holidays more fun for everyone. Just take turns passing the camera around and watch the photos come to life! I’m obsessed with Polaroid photos. I can’t help it! Oh, and don’t forget to pick up some film!

WHERE TO BUY

POLAROID NOW GENERATION 3 INSTANT CAMERA

B&H Photo

Amazon

I-TYPE FILM

B&H Photo

Amazon

HONORABLE MENTIONS

SanDisk 2TB Portable SSD on Amazon for $179.99

Canon EOS R100 with RF 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 Lens Kit on Amazon for $499

DJI RS 4 Gimbal Stabilizer on B&H Photo for $459

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Camera on B&H Photo for $83.95

ONA (The Clifton) Leather Camera Backpack on B&H Photo for $374.25

I hope this guide helped you comb through some of the deals going on this year! The holidays are always so crazy and stressful, but make sure to take some time for yourself and maybe even buy yourself a little something. We all work so hard ALL year long, and then we have to spend our money buying presents for everyone else?! Just remember to reward yourself in some way too. Whether that’s just spending a day on the couch snuggling with your pets, or finally sorting through some old photographs on your hard drive. For me, January/February is my time to slow down and recuperate from the long year, so I’ve got my eye on that prize. :)

Thanks so much for stopping by! Check out my full 2025 Gift Guide for more ideas here! Or you can see lots more 2025 Cyber Weekend camera & film recommendations on my Amazon Storefront or B&H Storefront. Happy Holidays!

<3 Myles Katherine

15 Unique Gifts for Photographers in 2025 | Holiday Gift Guide and Ideas for Photography Lovers

I can’t believe it’s already here - it’s Gift Guide time! The holidays are swiftly approaching (help!) and I don’t know about you, but I always have a seriously difficult time trying to figure out what to buy everyone in my life. But there is one thing I do know, and that’s what I would love to have gifted to me as a photographer. So, I’m hoping that imparting some of my wisdom in the photography world will help you make the perfect gift choice for the photography lover in your life! All of these gift ideas are meant for photographers but can definitely apply to videographers and artists alike. Just because they consider themselves to belong in one specific category of art doesn’t mean they couldn’t use the creative tools on this list to enhance their artwork. So, without further ado, here are 15 Unique Gifts for Photographers in 2025!

(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. HOLGA GCFN OR DIANA F+

I will always put a Holga or a Diana F+ in a gift guide, because I think a toy camera is a perfect way to challenge the artist in your life in a cute and creative way. These cameras are funky, adorable, colorful and so much fun to use. Just remember to pick up some 120 film to go with it! I recommend Kodak Portra 400 or Kodak Gold 200 to start with. :) I have a full blog post all about the Holga GCFN here or the Diana F+ here if you want to read more about them! There is also a cute little 35 mm Holga BC camera if you know the photographer in your life prefers 35 mm.

WHERE TO BUY

HOLGA GCFN ON AMAZOn

HOLGA GCFN ON B&H PHOTO

DIANA F+ ON B&H PHOTO

2. HANDMADE CAMERA STRAP (ETSY)

There was one Christmas when my mom bought me a handmade camera strap with cats on it, and it has become my all-time favorite strap. I keep it on my Nikon FE2 camera and it just makes me smile every time I pick up my camera. It’s also such a great idea to support an artist on Etsy by buying one of their handmade camera strap like this one. Think of something your photographer friend likes, whether it’s cats, dogs, avocados, etc, and see if you have find one on Etsy!

WHERE TO BUY

EtSY HANDMADE CAMeRA STRAPS

3. HARLOWE CREATIVE ACCESSORIES

I recently learned about this company while I was in NYC at the BILD Expo with B&H Photo. This company makes so many fun and creative accessories to help inspire photographers. Personally, I’d go for the Harlowe Gobo and Lens FX Creator Kit (unique filters for creating interesting photos) or the Harlowe Mini II Bi-Color LED Light Standard Kit (a portable lighting kit that is super small and can go anywhere with you).

WHERE TO BUY

B&H Photo - Harlowe Gobo and Lens FX Creator Kit

B&H Photo - Harlowe Mini II Bi-Color LED Light Standard Kit

4. LIGHT PAINTING WAND

There are so many uses for a light wand. You could create shapes while using a slow shutter speed, or you can use it in the studio to create colorful lighting scenarios. Instead of buying an expensive studio light with gels to change the color, you can just use a light wand like this one that has endless color options!

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

B&H Photo

5. FILM SCANNER

It’s on my list this year to get myself a new 35 mm film scanner. I currently use an Epson Perfection V750, which is great for scanning 120 film, but I’d love to have a designated 35 mm film scanner like this one. It’s way faster and easier to manage, and takes up less space on my desk. Plus, this Kodak one lets you scan 35 mm, 120, and 110 film and slides so you can restore those old film photos your parents might have taken back in the day!

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

B&H Photo

6. POLAROID GO OR POLAROID NOW & FILM

I actually just picked up a Polaroid Now camera and I love it. It’s super simple to use and works a little better than my vintage Polaroid 600 cameras. Plus, it takes both 600 film and i-Type film (which is a little cheaper). Not to mention, it’s incredibly cute sitting up on your shelf. Every photographer should have a polaroid camera, it’s just a right of passage!

WHERE TO BUY

Polaroid Now ON AMAZON

POLAROID NOW I-TYPE FILM ON AMAZON

Polaroid Go ON AMAZON

POLAROID GO FILM ON AMAZON

POLAROID NOW GIFT SET ON POLAROID.COM

POLAROID GO GIFT SET ON POLAROID.COM

7. NEEWER RING LIGHT

I bring a ring light with me everywhere if I’m traveling for work. It’s a heck of a lot easier than carrying around a studio lighting kit, and is the perfect fill light if you’re working in a space that isn’t quite bright enough. Plus, it’s great for capturing makeup and glam looks, and creates a nice even lighting over your subject. I’ll often throw a white sheet over it to diffuse the lighting even more, especially for video. But it’s nice because you can also change the color temperature and brightness! Not to mention, they are super affordable!

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

B&H PHOTO

8. INSTANT FILM PRINTER - INSTAX MINI LINK

These days, we take so many photos on our iPhones but we never print them! This little printer is perfect because you can create little mini polaroids with photos from your iPhone. It’s perfect because the prints are great for giving to friends and family and look so cute in a scrapbook or hanging on the fridge. I print polaroids all the time because it’s just a nice way to keep the memories alive instead of letting your photos disappear on your hard drive.

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

B&H PHOTO

9. 35 MM & 120 FILM ROLLS

If the photographer in your life shoots film, then 35 mm is your safest best. But if you know for a fact that they’re into 120 film (medium format), then definitely help them out and buy a few rolls! Film is expensive for photographers to buy constantly but is a great gift! A roll of 35 mm film costs anywhere from $5-20, and 120 film is usually $8-20. You can’t go wrong with Kodak Portra 400 in 35 mm or 120, or Kodak Gold 200 in 35 mm or 120. You can also read more on my blog. I have a post about 5 Unique Films To Make Your Photos More Interesting or The Best Color Film For 35 mm Cameras.

WHERE TO BUY

Kodak Portra 400 35 mm film ON B&H PHOTO

Kodak Portra 400 120 film on B&H Photo

KODAK GOLD 200 35 MM FILM ON AMAZON

KODAK GOLD 200 120 FILM ON B&H PHOTO

10. LEATHER OR VEGAN LEATHER CAMERA BAG

I just got a new camera bag last Christmas and it was a game changer. I’d been using the same ratty camera bag for over a decade, to the point that the zipper was broken and the fabric was tearing apart! There are finally some nice looking camera bags out there now. I personally love the brand Ona, but there are tons of other brands out there too, especially on Amazon. Here are a bunch that I’d recommend!

ONA THE CAPRI II CAMERA BAG IN ANTIQUE COGNAC LEATHER ON B&H PHOTO

VEGAN LEATHER CAMERA BACKPACK ON AMAZON

GILLIS LONDON GILLIS LONDON TRAFALGAR CAMERA BACKPACK

CWATCUN CANVAS CAMERA BACKPACK

CCWATCUN CAMERA BAG, RETRO CAMERA CROSSBODY CASE

JAEP CAMERA BACKPACK - WEATHER RESISTANT WAXED MEMORY CANVAS

LARGE CAPACITY PHOTOGRAPHY CANVAS CAMERA BACKPACK

VINTAGE CANVAS DSLR/SLR CAMERA BAG

11. VINTAGE CAMERA

Etsy is sort of a secret when it comes to shopping for vintage cameras. Instead of scouring through thrift stores to find a working camera, you can just browse through Etsy and find a seller that specializes in vintage cameras. I just bought a Ricoh 500GX on Etsy and I’m obsessed with it. You can check out my blog post about 10 Film Cameras I Recommend for Beginners if you’re looking for ideas. But the Canon AE-1 , Pentax K1000, Nikon FE or Nikon FE2 are great options! I always shop for vintage cameras on Etsy, KEH Camera, and eBay.

WHERE TO BUY

VINTAGE CANON AE-1 PROGRAM CAMERA ON ETSY

PENTAX K1000 ON KEH CAMERA

VINTAGE NIKON FE ON KEH CAMERA

VINTAGE NIKON FE2 ON EBAY

12. LIGHTROOM OR PHOTOSHOP SUBSCRIPTION

If the photographer in your life is just starting out, they probably haven’t officially invested in an editing program yet. Or if they have, I’m sure they’d appreciate a few extra months on their subscription that they wouldn’t have to pay for! Lightroom and Photoshop are sort of the standard for photo-editing, and are incredibly user-friendly and fun to experiment with. I’ve been using Lightroom and Photoshop together throughout my entire photography career for all of my editing!

WHERE TO BUY

LIGHTROOM ON Amazon

LIGHTROOM ON B&H Photo

PHOTOSHOP ON AMAZON

PHOTOSHOP ON B&H PHOTO

LIGHTROOM AND PHOTOSHOP PACKAGE ON AMAZON

13. PORTABLE LED PANEL

If you are looking for the perfect gift for a videographer, a portable LED panel is a great option. I’m not even a videographer and I’d love to have one of these! Sometimes the lighting just sucks and you need a little help. If the photographer in your life is a traveler, this one on Amazon is a great option because it includes a carrying case and lightweight stands. Or, if they tend to be in particularly rugged conditions, I’d recommend this kit from B&H Photo.

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

B&H Photo

14. BACKBLAZE SUBSCRIPTION

I’ve convinced pretty much everyone in my life to purchase Backblaze. It’s essentially a cloud back-up service, but it backs up your entire computer and all of your hard drives. So, I never have to worry if my client’s photos are going to disappear if my house burns down. And you’re able to access your files from anywhere. For example, if you accidentally forget to drag a folder onto your computer for editing, you can just download it from your backblaze account and keep editing!

WHERE TO BUY

Get a free 14-day trial on Backblaze!

15. NEW CAMERA!

And of course, who wouldn’t want a new camera! Depending on which brand they prefer, here are a few great options that are new this year from each brand under $2000! I also have a full blog post with more detailed camera descriptions if you’d like to read more - Top 10 Most Desired Digital Cameras of 2025 Under $2500 | The Best Mirrorless Cameras on the Market.

WHERE TO BUY

Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless Camera with RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens

Nikon Z5 II WITH 24-50MM F/4-6.3 LENS

Panasonic Lumix S5 II WITH 20-60MM F/3.5-5.6 LENS

Sony A6700 WITH 18-135MM LENS

Fujifilm X100VI

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

I hope this list helps you come up with a few gift ideas for the photographer or creative in your life. Or if you’re a photographer yourself, I hope this list reminds you to invest in your business and believe in yourself! I’ve been a full-time photographer since 2012 and it all started with my first Canon 5D Mark II. It truly only takes one amazing camera and one amazing artist to create a successful business.

If you’re looking for even more gift ideas, you can check out my previous gift guides here and 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. Find out more here!

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 Amazon storefront for more camera/film recommendations. :) Have a magical day!

<3 Myles Katherine

Top 10 Best 35mm Film Cameras for Beginner Photographers | From the Nikon FE2 to the Pentax K1000 to the Holga 135bc to the Canon AE-1 Program

I’ve used quite a few 35 mm film cameras over the years and they each have a special place in my heart. However, there are a few that I’d recommend over others if you’re a beginning photographer or just getting into film photography. Film & digital photography are wildly different adventures, in my personal opinion. Digital photography is great in it’s own right, but every film camera has it’s own personality. They aren’t replaceable. Their internal software can’t be updated. They work when they want to work. It’s all part of the fun of film photography. It also teaches you how to live in the moment. You can’t see the photo you just took on the back of the camera. You have to wait to get the film developed. So the moments you capture are real and unedited. Once an image is ingrained in film, the negative exists in a drawer forever, not on your hard drive. As you can tell, I’m just a little bit obsessed with film photography. :) I wanted to share 10 of the best 35mm film cameras for beginner photographers (in my opinion, of course) and why I recommend each one!

(By using the 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. Nikon FE2/FE

The Nikon FE2 is one of the pricier 35 mm cameras that I own, but it’s also the one 35 mm camera I won’t leave home without. I use the Nikon NIKKOR 50 mm f/1.4D lens and I’m absolutely obsessed with the way the photos look. They are dreamy, sharp, and beautiful. It’s definitely the most professional, sharpest 35 mm camera in my collection and I can’t imagine ever selling it. If you’re looking for a 35 mm camera that borders on amateur/professional, or you want room to grow, this is a great option. It has a dedicated aperture priority mode which is why I included it in this list. You don’t have to fully understand photography to be able to use this camera. You choose the aperture and the camera will do the rest for you. However, the lens itself is fully manual so you do have to focus the image yourself. It takes some getting used to, but there is something truly magical about this camera. It also has a dedicated multiple exposure option, which is why I went with this camera over a few of the other 35 mm cameras in this price range. This allows for creativity and experimentation once you get the hang of shooting film. :) The Nikon FE is similar, so either one is a great choice. However, the Nikon FE doesn’t have a dedicated multiple exposure lever. If multiple exposures aren’t your thing, than the Nikon FE would be a great choice and might save you a little bit of money. You can read my full review of the Nikon FE2 here or you can watch my YouTube videos about the Nikon FE2 here or here!

WHERE TO BUY

Nikon FE2

KEH Camera

Etsy

eBay

Nikon FE

KEH Camera

Etsy

Amazon

LENS (uses F Mount lenses):

50mm f/1.4 AF Nikkor on Amazon

50mm f/1.4 AF Nikkor on KEH Camera

35-70mm f/3.3 AF Nikkor (more affordable zoom lens)

2. Canon AE-1 Program

I don’t personally own a Canon AE-1 Program myself, but I convinced my sister to buy one and we made a YouTube video about it while we were traveling in Budapest together. You can watch our video on my YouTube channel here! The Canon AE-1 Program is sort of a cult classic. Everyone loves this camera. Everyone will be jealous of you if you own this camera. I’m jealous that my sister has one! But my Nikon FE2 is quite similar to it in terms of the features and settings, so it doesn’t make sense for me to get one at this time in my life. Maybe one day! What’s nice about the AE-1 is that it includes a full Auto setting, which basically makes it a point-and-shoot camera, but with much better results! You still have to manually adjust the focus, but the camera will automatically set the shutter speed and aperture. It’s an incredible camera and perfect for beginners who are just starting out with film photography. Whenever my sister shows me her photos from her travels, I’m always blown away. The focus can be a little difficult to get right, but if you’re patient and willing to learn, you can get some absolutely stunning images. This is another one of those cameras that you’ll never want to sell. This one will stay in your collection for a lifetime.

WHERE TO BUY

Canon AE-1 Program:

KEH Camera

Etsy

Amazon

eBay

Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 Lens:

KEH Camera

eBay

3. Holga 135BC 35 mm Camera

You guys know I’m obsessed with the Holga 120 GCFN. But I’ve recently gotten into the Holga 135BC, which is the 35 mm version of the camera. You can read my full blog post about the 35 mm version here and see tons of sample images or watch my YouTube video here! The Holga, in general, is in a league of it’s own. It’s sort of an acquired taste. They can be notoriously finicky, but they are also a true testament to the magic of film photography. Holga cameras are known for their quirks and light leaks, but they are also known for creating surreal, unusual images. Many of my favorite images I’ve ever taken have been with a Holga. The 35 mm version is a great place to start if you’re interested in challenging yourself or getting creative. There is nothing more exciting to me than getting back a roll of Holga film. You just never know what you’re going to get! I will say this - if your first roll of film doesn’t turn out, you have to try again. It takes a few rolls to get the hang of it, but I promise you, it’s worth it. Plus, these cameras are incredibly cute up on the shelf too, so if you get tired of it or need a break, just set it up on the shelf for decoration! I have over a dozen Holgas now because they come in lots of different colors. If you’re interested in reading more about the 120 version of the Holga, you can check out my blog post about it here. My sister actually received a 35 mm Holga from her husband for Christmas one year, and it’s become one of her go-to travel cameras. It took her a few tries to understand how the camera works, but now she loves it and brings it on every trip with her now!

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon

Etsy

B&H Photo

4. Minolta Maxxum STsi

The Minolta Maxxum STsi is my secondary go-to 35 mm camera when I travel. It’s really hard for me to leave it behind because it has a special mode that is difficult to find on most 35 mm film cameras - a panorama mode. Some people could care less about the panorama mode, but for me, it’s a necessity when I’m traveling. I’m often at the top of a mountain or bell tower and find myself wanting to capture the entire scene. The panorama mode on my phone just doesn’t cut it for me. I used to use the Vivitar IC101 camera for panorama photos while I was traveling, but when I found the Minolta Maxxum STsi, it immediately replaced it because the images are much, much sharper. Not to mention, it’s extremely easy to switch to the pano mode. There is a little lever on the side of the camera that you can switch at any time in the middle of a roll of film. And you can switch it as many times as you’d like! You can check out my YouTube video and blog post about the Minolta Maxxum STsi if you want more info!

WHERE TO BUY

Minolta Maxxum STsi Camera Body:

eBay

Etsy

Amazon

Lens:

Minolta Maxxum AF 28-85mm 3.5-4.5 Zoom lens on eBay

5. KS Super II

This is one of the newest additions to my collection and I just recently posted a YouTube video and blog post about this camera too! The KS Super II was actually released under the department store brand, Sears, in the 1980s. It’s technically a Ricoh XR-7 in disguise, just rebranded for Sears. The Ricoh XR-7 is probably a little easier to find out in the wild since the Sears model was a short-lived version of it. I was lucky enough to get a KS Super II in super good condition and I’ve only shot a few rolls with it so far. However, it’s simple to use and a great camera for traveling. It has an Aperture Priority setting as it’s main “Auto” setting, and then a flash setting. While this camera is a bit limited in terms of creativity and features, it’s great if you’re looking for a starter camera with a decently sharp lens at a good price. It has a cute, rugged metal alloy frame and has that classic 80s camera vibe. While I’d put this one a step below the Canon AE-1 Program and Nikon FE2, it still takes lovely photos and is super fun to use. I took it with me on a beach day and love how the photos turned out. I won’t be selling mine anytime soon, also because it was a hand-me-down from a family member. But the shutter sound is very satisfying and it just feels nice in your hand. I’m looking forward to trying this one out a bit more!

WHERE TO BUY

eBay

Etsy


WHERE TO BUY A RICOH XR-7

Etsy

eBay

6. Pentax K1000

While I don’t own a Pentax K1000, it was the camera that I almost went with before being convinced to buy the Nikon FE2. I had a photographer friend who shot with the Pentax K1000 and I loved how her photos looked. But after chatting with a sales associate at a used camera store, I realized that the Nikon FE2 was more suited for me because of the multiple exposure setting. However, if multiple exposures aren’t your jam, the Pentax K1000 is an amazing 35 mm camera. It’s another one of those cult cameras that can be somewhat difficult to get your hands on for a good price. But it has that classic silver and black body and super sharp lenses if you go with ones like the Pentax 50 mm f/1.4 or the 28 mm f/2.8 lens. I’m still hoping to get my hands on one of these someday. If you stumble upon one, don’t leave it behind!

WHERE TO BUY

Camera Body:

Amazon

KEH Camera

Etsy

eBay

Lens (uses K-mount lenses):

Pentax 28mm f/2.8 Lens

KEH Camera

eBay

Pentax 50 mm f/1.4 Lens

KEH Camera

eBay


7. Pentax PC35AF-M

The Pentax PC35AF-M sort of snuck up on me. I have no idea where I got it from or how it ended up in my collection. It’s a point-and-shoot 35 mm camera with a pop-up flash from the 1980s. I was pleasantly surprised by the sharpness of the lens, but it’s not surprising considering it’s a Pentax with an f/2.8 lens. The only downside is that the battery compartment tends to pop open a lot, but I just make sure to keep it taped shut! This is another camera that I’ve only used a handful of times but it’s a great camera for travel because it’s compact and simple to use. I took it with me to Boston and Salem, Massachusetts not too long ago and I love the photos I ended up with. It does not have a multiple exposure function though, so for me, it won’t be coming with me on all of my adventures. However, I might bring it out for a day trip or a wedding every once in a while. :) You can read more about it on my blog here.

WHERE TO BUY

Etsy

eBay

8. Canon Rebel G

The Canon Rebel G is very special to me because it’s the camera my mom used when I was kid to capture our every day moments. And I mean, the very camera in the photo above is the one she used. It’s funny how those photos from our childhood seem to have such a specific tone and mood to them. But it also has to do with the film they used to make back in the day. Unfortunately, a lot of those film stocks don’t exist anymore, but I find that I can get pretty close with Fujifilm 400 35 mm film or Kodak Gold 200 35 mm. This camera has a ton of different features and settings, so if you’re looking to get creative, you’ll probably enjoy using this camera. It has modes like sport, portrait, macro, multiple exposure, night, etc. It also has a full auto mode so if you just want to keep it simple, you can do that too! I have a YouTube video and blog post about this one too, of course. :)

WHERE TO BUY

Camera Body:

Etsy

Amazon

eBay

Lens:

Quantaray 28-90mm f/3.5 lens

9. Minolta Hi-Matic AF2

The Minolta Hi-Matic AF2 is another standard point-and-shoot camera, so if you’re looking for the most basic cameras that are the easiest to use, the point-and-shoots are the way to go. It’s exactly what it sounds like - you just point, and shoot! You don’t have to adjust any settings or waste time focusing the lens. The lens is autofocus and the camera will automatically set the best aperture and shutter speed to get the correct exposure. I took the Minolta Hi-Matic with me to Portugal last year and tested it out for the first time. It was such a perfect camera for travel because of it’s simplicity. I’m definitely planning on trying this one out again soon! You can read my blog post about it here, or watch our YouTube video about this camera in Portugal here!

WHERE TO BUY

Etsy

Amazon

eBay

10. Canon Rebel K2

My beloved Canon Rebel K2. While some might argue that there’s nothing special about this camera, I’d beg to differ. The Canon Rebel K2 was my very first 35 mm camera and I still remember my first roll of film I ever shot with it. There is a nostalgia to the images that I just die for every time. It’s traveled with me all over the world and has been there for me on so many different occasions. I love my Canon Rebel K2 so much. When friends and family members who are at the very beginning of their photography journey ask me which camera they should get, the Canon Rebel K2 is always my first recommendation. It has a full Auto setting, but also has a ton of different settings and features for getting more creative or learning more about photography. You can graduate all the way to using this camera fully manually if you’d like to. It’s also super affordable. The Canon Rebel G that I mentioned earlier is very similar to this camera, but for some reason, I just like the photos of the Rebel K2 a bit better. I also use a zoom lens with my Canon Rebel K2, which allows it to be much more versatile when traveling. I can zoom in and get a beautiful portrait, or I can zoom out and capture a full city street. It also has autofocus, so you don’t have to waste your time trying to get the focus right. Of course I have a full blog post and YouTube video about this one too, if you’re interested in seeing sample photos or reading more about it. :)

WHERE TO BUY

Camera Body:

Amazon

Etsy

eBay

LENS (uses EF mount):

Canon 28-90mm f/5.6 kit lens

FINAL THOUGHTS

I hope this blog post has helped you narrow down your search and decide which 35 mm camera is best for you. I’m happy to help in any way so feel free to send me a message here or leave a comment below! I can’t wait to try out more 35 mm cameras soon and make an even more extensive list for you. It’s so much fun for me to try out new cameras and see how they’re all different. No two film cameras are alike and I love that the opportunities for testing vintage cameras seems endless to me. There are so many more left out there in the world!

If you’re wondering what film stocks to try out with these cameras, check out my blog posts about Unique Film Stocks for 35 mm Cameras here or my Top 5 Favorite Color Films for 35 mm Cameras here. Or, here’s a quick list!

35 mm Film Recommendations

Kodak Gold 200 35 mm Film

Kodak Portra 160 35 mm Film

Kodak Portra 400 35 mm Film

Kodak ColorPlus 200 35 mm Film

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