Fuji TW-300 – The smart and practical bifocal compact 📷🔁
Launched in the mid-1980s, the Fuji TW-300 is a bifocal film camera designed for simplicity and efficiency. Halfway between a classic compact and a more versatile model, it cleverly juggles two fixed focal lengths – 38 mm for wide-angle, and 65 mm for tighter framing. A simple twist of the lens ring is all it takes to switch between the two, without motorized zoom or unwanted noise.
Main Features 📸
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🔍 Device type : Compact film bifocal (Tele-Wide)
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🎞️ Film format : 35 mm (24x36 mm)
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📐 Lens : Dual focal length 38 mm f/3.5 and 65 mm f/6 – fixed lens with mechanical tilt
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🎯 Focus : Autofocus
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🌡️ ISO sensitivity : Automatic detection up to ISO 1600
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⚡ Built-in flash : Yes, manual triggering
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🔁 Film loading : “Drop-in loading” system (very simple), with safety pre-winding
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🏭 Origin : Made or assembled in Japan
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📅 Release year : 1985 (and later)
Technical details and operation
The TW-300 is one of those smart compacts designed for the general public, but without compromising on the quality of the experience. Its bifocal system allows you to switch from wide-angle (38 mm) to a narrower focal length (65 mm) with a simple mechanical movement. This operation is more reliable, faster, and quieter than motorized zooms of the same era.
On the practical side, film loading is greatly simplified thanks to the drop-in loading system: simply insert the film, close the back, and it's ready to go. The automatic pre-winder winds the film as soon as it's inserted, which helps protect already taken images if the camera is opened by mistake.
Autofocus makes shooting easy for everyone, and manual flash puts you in control—it only fires when you decide.
Why choose the Fuji TW-300? ✔️
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Two practical focal lengths : 38 mm for everyday use, 65 mm for portraits
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No motorized zoom : silent, fast and reliable
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Easy loading : ideal for beginners
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Pre-winding = security : your photos are not lost in case of accidental opening
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Compact, sturdy and easy to use
Ideal for...
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🎒 Beginners in film photography who want a reliable camera
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👨👩👧👦 Family, vacation, or everyday photos
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🎞️ Fans of retro compacts with a typical 80s design
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📸 Those looking for a simple alternative to complex zooms
In summary
The Fuji TW-300 is a compact, affordable, and well-designed film camera that offers a seamless user experience thanks to its bifocal design and automatic features. Whether you're just getting started with film photography or looking for a simple camera to capture your memories, the TW-300 is a safe, practical, and enjoyable choice.