Kodak M35: an accessible but limited film camera
The Kodak M35 is a compact, all-plastic film camera designed to be a reusable alternative to traditional disposable cameras. Its goal is to allow users to take film photographs easily , without the hassle of manual adjustments found on more advanced cameras.
Available in several bright colors (yellow, pink, green, blue, etc.) , it relies on a retro and minimalist design to appeal to instant photography enthusiasts and those nostalgic for disposable cameras. It works with standard 35mm film and a simple AAA battery , making it accessible to everyone.
Main features:
| Characteristic | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Objective | 31mm plastic, fixed aperture f/10 |
| Shutter speed | 1/120s |
| Focus | Fixed (from 1m to infinity) |
| Flash | Integrated, range from 1 to 3m |
| Food | 1 AAA battery |
| Price | Around €40 |
The main appeal of the Kodak M35 is its simplicity: just insert a film and press the shutter release.
Ultra-simple handling… but no control
One of the main selling points of the Kodak M35 is its absolute simplicity . Unlike conventional film cameras, it requires no adjustments :
- No exposure control (aperture is fixed at f/10).
- No shutter speed adjustment (1/120s in all circumstances).
- No focus (it is fixed from 1 meter).
In practice, this means that the user has no way to adjust their shooting settings based on the lighting conditions or the scene being photographed. You just press the shutter button and hope for the best shot.
The built-in flash can be activated manually, but its very limited range (1 to 3 meters) and long recharge time (15 seconds) make it unreliable indoors or in low light.
Very average image quality
On paper, the Kodak M35 promises colorful and easy-to-use rendering. In reality, its technical limitations have a direct impact on the quality of the photos:
- Lack of sharpness: The plastic lens produces blurry, low-detail images.
- Unreliable exposure: A fixed aperture and single shutter speed do not allow you to adapt the shot to the lighting conditions.
- Aggressive Flash: The built-in flash easily overexposes close subjects.
- Distortions and chromatic aberrations: The edges of images are often blurred and colors imprecise.
The Kodak M35 certainly allows you to take film photos, but with random quality that limits the interest of the experience.
Why avoid the Kodak M35?
Despite its fun appearance, the Kodak M35 has several problems that make it a poor choice for beginners:
1. A misleading price
At €40 per camera, not including film and development, you might think it's a good deal. However, for a similar price, or even less, it's possible to buy a genuine second-hand film camera that's much more powerful and durable.
2. An environmentally unfriendly and fragile device
The Kodak M35 is made of lightweight, flimsy plastic. Its film advancement mechanism is fragile and likely to break after a few rolls. It is supposed to be reusable, but many end up being thrown away after a few months, negating any environmental benefits over traditional disposables.
3. No photography training
With the Kodak M35, you have no control over focus, exposure, or depth of field. You just press a button, with no room for improvement.
If you want to learn the basics of film photography, you'll want to get a camera that allows you to experiment with lighting, focus, and settings.
Which alternative should you choose to start using film?
Rather than buying a new Kodak M35, it is better to invest the same budget in a used film camera. There are two main families available to you:
1. A used compact film camera
If you're looking for something as easy to use as the Kodak M35, but with better image quality, consider a used compact film camera.
Why choose a film compact?
- They are often easy to use, with autofocus and good exposure.
- Their glass lens offers much better image quality than the Kodak M35.
- They often allow the use of films with more ISO flexibility, which improves the rendering depending on the available light.
Where to buy a used film compact?
- On sites specializing in the sale of film cameras, such as BromureFilm
- In photo stores that sell verified used equipment.
- On second-hand platforms (with caution and checking the condition of the equipment).
A reliable second-hand film compact can be found for as little as €40 , the same price as the Kodak M35, but with much better image quality and a longer lifespan.
2. A second-hand film SLR to learn photography
If you're serious about learning to master photography, a manual film SLR is a great option.
Why choose a film SLR?
- It allows total control over the settings and therefore real learning.
- It is generally rugged and built to last, unlike the Kodak M35.
- It accepts a wide variety of lenses, giving you more creative possibilities.
Where to buy a used film SLR?
- In a specialized photo store, where the device will have been tested and serviced, such as BromureFilm
- On sites specializing in film photography, which often offer guarantees.
- On second-hand platforms, carefully checking the condition of the body and lens before purchase.
A film SLR can be found from €50 on second-hand platforms, and from €150 on specialist sites, which is a bigger investment than a Kodak M35, but with an infinite number of additional creative possibilities.
Conclusion: forget the Kodak M35 and opt for a real used film camera
The Kodak M35 may seem like an attractive starting point, but its poor image quality, lack of settings, and fragility make it a poor investment . Rather than opting for a limited camera, it's much better to buy a real used film camera , which will offer better quality, more control, and a real photography experience .
👉 At BromureFilm, we help you choose the perfect film camera to get started! Discover our advice and our selection of used cameras on our site.
