Popular film cameras: six classics to get to know

These six established models cover several ways to shoot film, from manual exposure to aperture-priority automation. Compare their controls and handling before deciding which ones to investigate further.

Canon AE-1

Introduced in April 1976, the AE-1 brought electronically controlled shutter-priority exposure to a broad audience. You choose the shutter speed and, with a compatible lens set correctly, the camera chooses the aperture. Canon’s museum records its design and specifications.

Nikon F3

The F3 arrived in 1980 with aperture-priority automatic and manual exposure. Nikon reports sales of more than 751,000 by September 1992 in its F3 history. It’s a useful model to investigate if you want a system SLR with interchangeable viewfinders.

Nikon FM2

For manual exposure, the FM2 is another place to look. Its mechanically controlled shutter reached 1/4000 second when it launched in 1982. Nikon’s camera chronicle describes the model and its shutter technology.

Pentax K1000

The K1000 is a straightforward manual SLR to explore if learning the controls is part of the appeal. Pentax includes it in its historical camera archive. Check the condition of the meter and the included lens when comparing used examples.

Olympus OM-1

Olympus designed the OM system around a smaller SLR body. Its OM-1 design account explains how the designers reduced its size. Try one if you want a compact SLR with manual controls.

Leica M3

The M3, introduced in 1954, began Leica’s M rangefinder system. Leica’s history traces the models that followed. Its separate rangefinder view is a different experience from looking through an SLR lens.

This selection draws on the manufacturers’ histories and specifications. It isn’t an all-time sales ranking, and it doesn’t tell you the condition of a camera in a particular listing.

Open a few camera pages and check the sample photographs and buying links. Before choosing one, read how to inspect a used camera.