 | Disposable or Instant: $2-$300 |
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 | 35mm SLR: $200-$4,000+ |
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 | Medium Format: $1,000-$30,000+ |
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| The popularity of digital cameras means that film cameras, especially the inexpensive, compact units are gradually becoming obsolete. There are still plenty of people, though, who prefer taking photographs using traditional film cameras. Whether buyers want an inexpensive disposable camera for use at the beach or simply prefer the look and feel of 35mm photographs, film cameras still have many uses. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Single use or disposable cameras cost from under $2 to $20, which includes a roll of preloaded film. They are popular at weddings and parties where each guest can be given a camera to inexpensively snap memories of the event. The Kodak Sport Single Use camera is loaded with Kodak Ultra Max 800 speed film, is waterproof up to 50 feet and costs about $7 -$20.
- As the name suggests, instant cameras deliver color prints almost instantly. These cameras range from about $30 to $300 or more. The Fuji Instax Mini 7 delivers credit card sized prints from a pocket-size unit and costs about $80 -$96. A compatible film cartridge capable of delivering 10 prints costs about $15.
- Point and shoot film cameras have been hardest hit by the growth in popularity of digital cameras. Refurbished and end-of-stock models can be found costing from $15 to $300. Example of a 35mm point-and-shoot is the Olympus 35mm Trip
- A 35mm SLR (single lens reflex) camera is the mainstay of the film camera world aimed at serious amateurs and professionals alike. While the camera bodies and interchangeable lenses are usually sold separately, together they range in cost from about $200 to $4,000 or more. For more information on the cost of lenses, see How Much Does a Camera Lens Cost. The Nikon FM10 costs about $500 with a Nikon 35-70mm zoom lens.
- Medium format cameras use film that is substantially larger than 35mm film. In general, a larger negative will produce higher quality prints, although the size of the film means that medium format cameras also tend to be bulkier than their 35mm counterparts. These cameras remain popular for studio portraits and wedding photography where the cameras can remain fixed on a tripod. While some low tech, very inexpensive medium format cameras such as the Holga 120N are available for as little as $40, most quality medium format units cost from $1,000 to $30,000 or more. The Mamiya 7-II is a high-quality medium format camera that uses 6x7cm film and costs about $3,700 with an 80mm f/4 lens.
What should be included: | - Most film cameras include a camera body, lens and a camera strap.
Additional costs: | - When using film cameras it's important to factor in the cost of film stock and film processing. A roll of color 35mm film costs from under $2 to $15. Processing the film costs about $6 to $12 or more.
- A camera bag or pouch will protect a film camera and can cost from about $10 to $500.
- Tripods cost from less than $10 to several hundred dollars for professional grade equipment.
- Flash equipment for SLR cameras can range from $35 to $600 or more.
Discounts: | |
Shopping for a film camera: | - Online retailers such as Amazon still offer a broad selection of new film cameras, as well as some used and refurbished models.
- B&H Photo Video offers a selection of used film cameras.
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Article updated February 2010 |
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