The Kodak M35 is a popular reusable film camera that initially launched back in 2019.
Known for simplicity and variety of funky colors, kodak M35 has become a favorite among both photography enthusiasts and casual users.
The analogue design and single element plastic lens draw in those seeking a nostalgic experience while offering a sustainable alternative to disposable cameras.
As you dive into the world of kodak reusable cameras, you’ll discover that the Kodak M35 is an excellent first step for those new to analogue photography.
With its ease of use and affordable price point, the M35 provides an accessible way to capture moments without the need for digital technology.
Additionally, the camera’s charming design has a way of sparking conversations and capturing attention wherever it goes.
Throughout this review, I’ll explore the features and performance of the Kodak M35, helping you understand its strengths, weaknesses, and overall value.
By the end, you’ll have a better grasp of whether this camera is the perfect fit for your photography journey or if you should consider other options.
Kodak M35 Camera History
In the past, disposable cameras were a popular choice for capturing memories. However, as technology advanced, reusable film cameras like the Kodak M35 started to make their mark on the market.
The Kodak M35 is a 35mm reusable film camera, which features a modern design and offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional disposable cameras.
Back in 2006 to 2008, the digital camera industry was having a significant impact on the photographic market.
People were shifting from film to digital cameras due to their convenience and ease of use. However, the demand for analog photography remained strong among enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Kodak M35 was developed as a response to this demand. Its design is simple yet attractive, with a plastic body and an easy-to-use mechanism for loading and advancing the film.
It uses standard 35mm film, making it a versatile choice for photographers looking to explore the world of film photography.
Thanks to its reusability, the Kodak M35 not only lets you indulge in the art of analog photography, but it also contributes to reducing environmental waste.
Compared to disposable cameras, the M35 allows you to experiment, discover, and learn about film photography, while keeping a clear conscience.
As the Kodak M35 continues to gain popularity, it paves the way for both new and experienced photographers to embrace the unique charm and nostalgia that comes with film photography.
The introduction of this camera marked a significant milestone in the photographic industry, as it revitalized interest in analog technology and helped keep the art of film photography alive.
Kodak M35 Review (Key Features)
Lens and Focusing
The Kodak M35 features a 31mm F/10 focus-free lens that ensures you capture sharp photos consistently.
This 1-element lens makes your film photography experience simple and straightforward, allowing you to concentrate on capturing moments without worrying about focus.
Shutter Speed
With a fixed shutter speed, the Kodak M35 is designed to handle a range of lighting conditions.
This camera easily adapts to various situations, from bright sunlight to low-light scenarios, providing you with quality images every time.
Film Format
The M35 uses the classic 35mm film format, giving you a sense of nostalgia with your photos.
This film camera is a perfect choice for those looking to explore the world of analog photography and cherish the tactile experience of working with physical film.
Film Transport
This camera features a manual film advance and rewind system. To load your film, simply open the camera back and place the film onto the spool.
Once you’ve taken all your photos, rewind the film back into the canister before sending it off to your favorite lab for processing. The hands-on approach to film transport enhances your connection with the analog photography process.
View Finder
The camera’s viewfinder is designed for ease of use and precise framing, enabling you to compose your shots effectively.
It is a straightforward tool that gives you a reliable preview of your final image, ensuring that your compositions are on point.
Power Source
The Kodak M35 relies on a single AA battery to power its flash. This makes the camera lightweight and easy to carry on your daily outings.
However, be aware that the battery may drain quickly due to frequent flash usage. To avoid running out of power unexpectedly, always carry a spare battery with you during your shoots.
With these features, your Kodak M35 is ready to offer you a unique and engaging film photography experience. Enjoy your creative journey while capturing memories with this camera.
Kodak M35 Specs at a Glance & Explanation
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Lens | 31mm, f/10 |
| Focus Range | 1 meter to infinity |
| Flash | Built-in, On/Off |
| Film Type | 35mm |
| ISO | 200/400 |
| Winding | Manual |
| Battery | 1x AAA Alkaline |
The Kodak M35 is a great beginner-friendly film camera for those who want to explore the world of analog photography. Here are some notable features and specifications of the camera:
- Lens: The Kodak M35 is equipped with a 31mm F/10 focus-free lens, ensuring that capturing your memories is as simple as point-and-shoot. With its wide field of view, you can easily capture sweeping landscapes or group shots.
- Fixed Focus Lens: The Kodak M35 has also a 31mm fixed focus lens with an aperture of f/10. This fixed focus lens ensures that your subjects are always in focus from a distance of 1 meter to infinity. The simplicity of this one-element lens allows you to concentrate on framing and composition, rather than spending time on focusing adjustments.
- Flash: The camera has a battery-powered flash, which allows you to take photos in various lighting conditions, including low light. To ensure you don’t miss those precious moments, always carry extra batteries for the flash.
- Film Compatibility: The M35 uses standard 35mm film, giving you the flexibility to experiment with different film types, brands, and ISOs to achieve your desired look.
- Design: The camera’s plastic body is lightweight and durable, making it an ideal companion for your adventures. Its straightforward design means you can focus on enjoying the moment without worrying about complicated settings.
- Reusable: Unlike traditional disposable cameras, the Kodak M35 is reusable. This means you can keep using the camera with new rolls of film, making it an eco-friendly choice for analog enthusiasts.
The Kodak M35’s specifications make this camera a reliable and easy-to-use choice for both beginners and experienced film photographers who want a compact, reusable 35mm film camera.
With its focus-free lens and manual controls, you can capture memorable moments without any hassle. For more information, you can refer to the Kodak M35’s official product page.
Design and Colors of Kodak M35
Dimensions
The Kodak M35 is a plastic-bodied simple use camera designed to be lightweight and easy to carry. Its dimensions make it convenient for you to take it along on your daily adventures without any hassle.
Color Options
The Kodak M35 offers a variety of bold and eye-catching color options to suit your personal style. Among the colors available are:
- Black: A classic color that never goes out of style and offers a sleek, professional look.
- Brown: A versatile and sophisticated choice that complements almost any setting.
- Yellow: A bright and vibrant option that stands out and adds a pop of color to your photography experience.
In addition to these colors, the Kodak M35 also comes in other shades, each with white logos. This variety ensures that you’ll find a color that best suits your preferences, making your M35 camera truly your own.
The confident and knowledgeable build of the Kodak M35 camera paired with its colorful options will make your photography experience all the more enjoyable.
How to Use the Kodak M35?
Loading and Unloading Film
To get started with your Kodak M35, you need to load a 35mm film. Open the back cover by pressing the release button and carefully insert the film cartridge.
Pull out the film leader and insert its tip into the take-up spool. Close the back cover and advance the film using the manual wind until the film frame counter shows “1”.
When you’ve finished the roll, press the rewind button and wind the film back into the cartridge before opening the back cover to remove it.
Manual Winding
The Kodak M35 requires manual winding to advance the film. After taking a photo, turn the film advance wheel until it stops.
This helps in transporting the film to the next frame, which is sized as 24 x 36mm. You’ll need to do this each time you take a photo.
Taking Photos
The Kodak M35 features a focus-free 31mm F/10 lens, which means you don’t need to worry about focusing before taking a photo.
Simply aim the camera at your subject, press the shutter release button, and capture the moment. Remember to manually wind the film after taking each photo.
For low light situations, the M35 has a built-in battery-powered flash, powered by a 1 x AAA alkaline battery.
To activate the flash, press the flash button and wait for the indicator light to turn on. This indicates the flash is ready to be used. Just remember to turn it off after use to conserve battery life.
By following the above steps, you’ll be able to make the most of your Kodak M35 film camera. Happy shooting!
Image Quality and Performance of Kodak M35 Camera
When using the Kodak M35, you’ll notice that it’s a reusable film camera with a retro feel. Despite its plastic body, this point and shoot camera is designed for ease of use and durability.
As a result, the image quality and performance of this camera are quite impressive for its price range and purpose.
The camera features a fixed focus lens with a distance range of 3.3′ ~ ∞, allowing you to capture a variety of subjects with decent sharpness.
Although the camera has a simple design, it uses 135 film, which means you can achieve good image quality on your roll of 35mm film.
In terms of performance, the Kodak M35 comes with manual film winding. This gives you complete control over your photos and contributes to the retro vibe of the camera.
However, inexperienced users may need a bit of practice to get familiar with this feature.
The viewfinder on the M35 is not the most advanced, but it is clear and functional, allowing you to frame your shots effectively.
As a reusable film camera, you can expect that using the M35 will be slightly different from digital point and shoot cameras. But, once you get the hang of it, you can capture some excellent images with a nostalgic aesthetic.
In summary, the Kodak M35 delivers decent image quality for a reusable film camera in its category.
With its fixed focus lens, manual film winding, and 135 film compatibility, it is a fun and affordable option for those who want to explore the world of analog photography.
Just be prepared to embrace the retro feel and challenge yourself to master its unique features.
What Are The Accessories and Compatible Products for Kodak M35?
When it comes to using your Kodak M35 film camera, you have a variety of accessories and compatible products to enhance your photography experience.
The camera is designed to work with various 35mm film, such as color negative or black and white films. It’s an excellent camera for beginners and those interested in analogue photography.
To capture the mood of your scene, you can try different types of film. Some popular choices include Kodak ColorPlus 200, Portra 400, or their black and white films like Tri-X 400.
Brands like Lomography also offer unique 35mm films with special effects like color shifts or light leaks.
Since the Kodak M35 has a built-in flash, you don’t need any external flash accessories. However, you could invest in a camera strap to comfortably carry around your camera while you’re out shooting.
Additionally, a cleaning kit consisting of a soft-bristle brush, microfiber cloth, and lens cleaner will keep your M35 well-maintained and functional.
You won’t need any extra lenses for the M35, as it comes with a 31mm F/10 focus-free lens. This lens makes the camera easy-to-use and versatile for various shooting situations.
If you wish to further develop your skills in analogue photography, you can even explore photography workshops or courses at your local school.
It’s a great way to network with other enthusiasts, learn new techniques, and get professional guidance.
Remember, the Kodak M35 is a reusable 35mm film camera, so you can experiment with different kinds of films and accessories.
Feel free to reach out to your nearest photography store or online retailers for assistance in choosing the products you need to enhance your photography experience.
Comparison Kodak M35 to Disposable Cameras
When comparing the Kodak M35 to disposable cameras, there are several factors to consider, including their functionality, ease of use, and overall value.
The Kodak M35 stands out as a reusable film camera, differentiating itself from typical disposable cameras that can only be used once.
In terms of functionality, the Kodak M35 comes with a built-in flash and a focus-free operation. This makes it easy for you to capture images without worrying about adjusting settings or buying a separate flash.
Disposable cameras often feature similar built-in flashes and simple operation, but the reusable nature of the Kodak M35 offers more opportunities to practice and improve your photography skills.
The Kodak M35 has a plastic body, just like many disposable cameras. However, its design comes in various bold colors with white logos, adding an element of style to your photography experience.
On the other hand, disposable cameras often feature plain or generic designs, lacking the visual appeal the Kodak M35 offers.
One notable advantage of the Kodak M35 is its reusable aspect. Most disposable cameras are limited to a single use, requiring you to purchase a new one for every roll of film.
The Kodak M35, being a reusable camera, allows you to switch out the film and continue using the same camera, saving you money and reducing waste.
However, it’s essential to note that the Kodak M35 relies on AAA batteries, which can pose a drawback when compared to disposable cameras.
Some users have reported the battery dying quickly, causing inconvenience when out shooting. On the other hand, disposable cameras usually come with a pre-loaded battery designed to last for the duration of the film.
In conclusion, the Kodak M35 offers advantages over disposable cameras, such as its reusability and bold design, making it an attractive option for those interested in casual film photography.
However, it does come with its own set of drawbacks, such as battery life.
To decide whether the Kodak M35 is the right choice for your photography needs, consider the aspects most important to you, such as aesthetics, ease of use, and long-term value.
Buying Options and Dealer Reviews of Kodak M35
When looking for a Kodak M35, you might come across various buying options and reviews. In this section, I will explore some of the aspects you should consider while purchasing a Kodak M35.
Used Cameras
While the main focus of your search might be on new Kodak M35 cameras, don’t overlook the possibility of finding a well-maintained used camera.
Besides Amazon reviews, you can browse other platforms where you may find people selling their Kodak M35 in excellent condition.
Just be sure to check the camera’s overall condition, including the functionality of the built-in flash, and the clarity of the lens.
Dealer Reviews
It’s essential to research the reputability of the dealer from whom you’re buying your Kodak M35. A quick Google search can help you find customer reviews about the seller.
Remember that Amazon also provides dealer ratings and reviews on their platform, which can be useful in gauging the dealer’s reliability.
Pay close attention to reviews that mention their delivery times, packaging practices, and any instances of them going above and beyond to accommodate customer needs.
FAQ of Kodak M35
Is M35 reusable?
Yes, the Kodak M35 is a reusable film camera. Unlike traditional disposable cameras, you can use this camera multiple times by simply replacing the film once you have finished shooting a roll.
Is the Kodak M35 easy to use?
The Kodak M35 is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy to use for people of all skill levels.
Its straightforward film loading, manual wind and rewind, and minimal controls allow you to focus on capturing great photos without any complicated settings.
Is the Kodak M35 suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Kodak M35 is an excellent choice for beginners or those looking for a user-friendly film camera.
Its simple design and easy-to-use features make it accessible to anyone who wants to explore the world of film photography.
What films are suitable for Kodak M35?
The Kodak M35 works with any standard 35mm film, giving you the flexibility to choose from a variety of film types depending on your creative vision and desired aesthetic.
This includes color or black and white films, as well as those with different ISO ratings for various lighting conditions.
What is the difference between Kodak M35 and M38?
The main difference between the Kodak M35 and M38 is their design and construction.
While both cameras are reusable film cameras, the M38 has a slightly different design and build compared to the M35.
However, their basic functions and features remain similar, offering easy-to-use, reusable film cameras for film enthusiasts.
What is the difference between Kodak M35 and Ultra F9?
The Kodak M35 is a reusable film camera primarily designed for simplicity and ease of use, whereas the Ultra F9 is a compact digital camera offering additional features and settings like zoom, image stabilization, and various shooting modes.
While both are Kodak cameras, they cater to different types of photographers and preferences.
Does the Kodak M35 have a built-in flash?
Yes, the Kodak M35 comes with a built-in flash, enabling you to take well-exposed photos in low-light situations. The flash is powered by a single AAA battery, making it convenient to replace when needed.