Film cameras

Film camera: how to find a working one and not overpay

Updated 21 October 2026

For shooting or for a collection

First answer for yourself: do you want to shoot, or just own a nice object? For a collection or decoration, appearance and the full set matter most. For shooting, working order comes first: a sound shutter, accurate speeds, clean lens glass. Beginners are often advised to take a simple, reliable SLR with manual controls, because it forgives mistakes.

Types of film cameras

• SLRs: you see through the lens, with interchangeable lenses. For example, Canon AE-1, Zenit-E.
• Rangefinders: more compact and quieter, but harder to focus.
• Point-and-shoot compacts: simple, automatic, handy for everyday shooting.
• Medium format: a bigger frame and higher quality, with pricier film and cameras.
• Instant cameras, Polaroid and Instax: give a print at once, and the cartridges cost more.

What to check before buying

Film cameras are mostly used, so condition decides everything. Ask about these things:

• Shutter: does it open at all speeds, and does it stick at long ones?
• Light meter: does it work and show sensible values?
• Light seals: with time they break down and let light onto the film. They can be replaced, but ask whether this has been done.
• Lens glass: no fungus, scratches or haze.
• Film advance and the frame counter.

It is good when the seller shows a test roll or at least a video of the shutter.

What to put in your request

• Model - for example, Zenit-E or Canon AE-1.
• Type - SLR, rangefinder, compact, medium format, instant.
• Condition - tested shutter, light meter, seals, cosmetic state.
• Lens - needed or not, and which one (for example, Helios-44).
• What for - shooting, collection, a beginner.
• What is included - case, cap, film or cartridges.
• Delivery, city, budget.

Example: “I am looking for a working film SLR for a beginner, preferably a Canon AE-1 with a 50 mm lens. Shutter and light meter tested, fresh light seals, with a case. Courier delivery to Wellington. Budget up to NZ$120.”

How to compare offers

Compare not only the price but also the condition and what is included. A camera at a lower price with an untested shutter may need a repair that costs more. Ask whether you can return it if the camera turns out to be faulty.

How ordering works through BlaBlaPrice

You describe the camera you need, and sellers and collectors reply in a chat with photos, condition, price and delivery. The offers are compared, and the best one by content is shown first. Reviews are visible by each seller, and contacts stay hidden until you choose. Read how it works.

For modern shooting, look at digital cameras, and for the camera itself you will need lenses.