Photographs have always been a special thing. Being able to immortalise a single moment on film is probably one of science’s more underappreciated gifts to man. The significance of taking photographs plummeted with the introduction of digital photography. Specifically because people could now click away, taking thousands of pictures without worrying about wasting film. Nonetheless, we feel that there’s nothing quite like an analog camera experience.
This #throwbackthursday, we zoom in on 3 trusty film cameras from the yesteryears that are guaranteed to invoke some nostalgia. It’s time to stow away those fancy DSLRs and take one of these old boys out for a trip down memory lane.
Nikon F
This camera holds significant weight in history because it’s Nikon’s first SLR (single-lens reflex) camera. Introduced in 1959, the Nikon F signified the company’s step away from the best cameras of the time, rangefinders, which were exorbitantly priced. Reputed to be extremely well-built, user-friendly and durable, this camera is a good pick for anyone looking to pick up the basics of photography.
Yashica-MAT 124g
This TLR (twin-lens reflex) camera is popular among enthusiasts because of reasonable pricing and sharp lens. The 124g uses an 80mm f/3.5 lens fixed to the body and a 6×6 format. For the layman, this means only the object you’re shooting will be in focus. This can make for very artistic shots of your girlfriend standing in the streets. Although the TLR takes some geting used to, it can produce some incredible action shots.
Polaroid SX-70
What better way to jump on the Polaroid bandwagon than with an actual Polaroid camera? Perhaps the most unique thing about the SX-70 is that it’s a foldable SLR instant camera. This bit of jargon basically means what you see through the lens is what you will get on your photograph a few seconds later. This is unlike viewfinder cameras that can be inaccurate. Although this camera tends to be a bit pricey, it is nothing short of quality. There must be a reason Impossible Project (a company that’s dedicated to producing film for classic Polaroid cameras) continues to use it in demonstrations.
So there you go. Three vintage cameras worth checking out if you’re in the market for an analog camera experience. You can rest assured they won’t soon go out of style. Although these classics are available on sites like eBay, we suggest hitting a local vintage camera store first.