[rockin_amigo14]

I'm taking Photography I this semester and was just informed by the teacher I need a 35mm film SLR camera. My mom brought out her old one but it is not in good shape and we've been told it would probably be cheaper just to buy one.

So now you know what I know: I need a 35mm SLR film camera (no flash needed). I have no more information available from my professor besides that.

I am very low on cash so I'd like, more or less, the cheapest possible deal. If I had to pick a budget, I'd like to stay under $50 if possible, but less is ideal.

Can anyone help?

 

[beerguy0]

Quote:

Originally Posted by rockin_amigo14 /img/forum/go_quote.gif I'm taking Photography I this semester and was just informed by the teacher I need a 35mm film SLR camera. My mom brought out her old one but it is not in good shape and we've been told it would probably be cheaper just to buy one. So now you know what I know: I need a 35mm SLR film camera (no flash needed). I have no more information available from my professor besides that. I am very low on cash so I'd like, more or less, the cheapest possible deal. If I had to pick a budget, I'd like to stay under $50 if possible, but less is ideal. Can anyone help?

Check Craigslist for a used camera. Film SLRs can be had pretty cheap. Or see if you can borrow one. Plenty of people have film cameras sitting around since going digital.

Did you try running a roll of film through your Mom's camera? Just because it's
not in mint condition doesn't mean it's broken.

 

[bcpk]

I got my Canon EOS 1000FN body for £15 on eBay. If your mother's camera is a Canon with an EOS/EF mount lens then you will be able to use it on another EOS body.

 

[Deep Funk]

Ken Rockwell has a good website. Regarding you photography class/lessons, make sure the camera you choose isn't all AF. Auto focus is fine, but when making adjustments for whatever situation you need good manual focus settings and controls. There is plenty of choice with bodies. The lenses can be a burden to the wallet.

 

[TopPop]

Pentax K1000. I still have mine, even though I've gone mostly digital now. It's a true workhorse, I tell ya.

 

[ronnielee54]

Check the pawn shops in you area. I have seen some really sweet deals lately while looking for lenses.

 

[Lazarus Short]

Ricoh makes some good SLR's and they are dirt cheap on the used market - Konica too.

 

[aj-kun]

I have a nikon FM

still dont ahve a lense tho -.-'
i always get beat

 

[Cankin]

Lots of used camera on BH Photo in your price range

Used 35mm Cameras

 

[jjcapurro]

Craigslist is your friend. I've seen MANY BEAUTIFUL and high end camera go for pennies! Just a couple weeks ago there was a canon EOS-1 for $100!

 

[Mr. B]

I'm partial to the classic Olympus OM system... those are gorgeous cameras.  If you can get a Canon EOS camera, you can use modern lenses though.

 

[c12mech]

I'll second the Pentax K1000.  I picked one up at a Flea Market on vacation a couple of years ago for $8.  Put in $3 battery for the light meter and it works great.  Best $11 bucks I've spent yet.

 

[tjohnusa]

PM me I may be able to help you out for pretty much nothing.

 

[nosch455]

Ken Rockwell is actually a pretty dangerous resource - he frequently makes up information (and admits as much). What are you are the requirements for the camera? Do you need internal metering, autofocus, motor drive, etc.? Also, do you/your mom already have a camera system? The body might be shot, but if your mom's lenses are good, that's the important part.

The biggest issues with older cameras are the shutter not firing and film advance not working. Common issues are just finding the right batteries for them and trusting the internal meter - an external light meter is infinitely more helpful. The old stand-bys of the used camera market are the Nikon FM series, Canon AE, Pentax K1000, Minolta X series, and Olympus OM series (*sniff* my first film camera). You should be able to find a body for less than $10 locally or around the internet/eBay. KEH is a good resource to buy used gear, but you can often get a better deal if you hunt around.