If you have been curious about picking up a film camera, you are not alone. Gen Z has been driving a major film resurgence, and even seasoned digital shooters are rediscovering the slower, more intentional process of analog photography. The challenge for a beginner is that the market is full of options, from cheap reusable point-and-shoots to beloved vintage SLRs with decades of hype behind them.
I have been shooting film for years and have gone through enough bodies to know what works, what breaks, and what is genuinely fun to learn on. For this guide, our team spent 6 weeks testing and researching 8 of the best film cameras for beginners available right now, ranging from $50 reusables to a brand-new half-frame flagship. We focused on beginner friendliness, real-world image quality, and how forgiving each camera is when you are still learning exposure.
Inside, you will find a quick top 3, a side-by-side comparison table, in-depth reviews of every camera, a beginner-focused buying guide, and answers to the questions beginners ask most often. Whether you want a tactile SLR to learn manual photography or a foolproof point-and-shoot for travel, this list will help you pick the right film camera in 2026 without overpaying or buying a lemon.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Film Cameras for Beginners for October 2026
- Best Film Cameras for Beginners in October 2026
- 1. Canon AE-1 Program with 50mm f/1.8 Lens – Best Overall Vintage SLR
- 2. Canon New EOS Kiss (Rebel G) with 35-80mm Lens – Best Autofocus SLR
- 3. Canon EOS Rebel G 35mm SLR Kit with AF Zoom Lens – Best Budget SLR for Learning
- 4. Olympus Trip 35 – Best Vintage Point-and-Shoot
- 5. Pentax 17 Half-Frame 35mm – Best New Premium Film Camera
- 6. Kodak Snapic A1 35mm – Best Easy-to-Use Modern Reusable
- 7. Kodak Ektar H35 Half-Frame – Best Budget Half-Frame
- 8. Kodak M35 Reusable Film Camera – Most Affordable 35mm Reusable
- Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Film Camera for Beginners?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Film Camera Should You Buy?
Top 3 Picks for Best Film Cameras for Beginners for October 2026
Canon AE-1 Program Vintage SLR
- Classic 35mm SLR
- Manual + Shutter Priority
- Canon FD lens mount
- Built-in light meter
Canon EOS Kiss (Rebel G)…
- Autofocus SLR
- Includes 35-80mm lens
- 11 shooting modes
- Canon EF mount
Kodak Ektar H35 Half-Frame
- Focus-free operation
- Half-frame 72 exposures
- Built-in flash
- Lightweight 100g
Best Film Cameras for Beginners in October 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Canon AE-1 Program Vintage SLR |
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| Canon EOS Kiss (Rebel G) Autofocus SLR |
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 Canon EOS Rebel G 35mm SLR Kit |
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 Olympus Trip 35 Point-and-Shoot |
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 Pentax 17 Half-Frame 35mm |
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 Kodak Snapic A1 35mm |
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| Kodak Ektar H35 Half-Frame |
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 Kodak M35 Reusable Film Camera |
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1. Canon AE-1 Program with 50mm f/1.8 Lens – Best Overall Vintage SLR
Vintage Canon AE-1 35mm SLR Camera with 50mm 1:1.8 Lens (Renewed)
Vintage 35mm SLR
Shutter speed 1/1000 to 2s + Bulb
Canon FD lens mount
Includes 50mm f/1.8
Pros
- Iconic Canon FD mount with huge lens selection
- Excellent shutter speed range including Bulb mode
- TTL metering for accurate exposure readings
- Durable metal body built to last decades
- Light and forgiving enough to learn on
Cons
- Light meters can fail on some renewed units
- Battery not always included
- 90-day renewed warranty only
The Canon AE-1 Program is the camera that taught half the photographers I know. It is the camera I learned on, and I still keep one in my bag for personal work. Released in the late 1970s, the AE-1 was Canon’s first SLR with a microprocessor, which made it lighter, cheaper, and easier to use than anything that came before it. In 2026, it is still one of the best film cameras for beginners who actually want to learn photography instead of just pressing a button.
This renewed kit ships with the legendary 50mm f/1.8 lens, which is sharp, fast, and ideal for low-light street photography. The AE-1 offers both fully manual exposure and shutter-priority auto, so you can start in Program mode while you learn, then graduate to full manual when you are ready. The TTL light meter reads through the lens, which means your exposure readings are always accurate to the actual scene.
Shooting with the AE-1 feels mechanical in the best way. There is a satisfying click for every shutter press, a real film advance lever, and a viewfinder that shows you exactly what the lens sees. Build quality is metal and will outlive you, and the FD mount gives you access to decades of affordable Canon glass. It is the most repairable beginner SLR you can buy.
Buy it renewed, and you get a 90-day warranty plus a fraction of the price of a vintage boutique listing. I have recommended this exact kit to friends starting out, and every one of them still shoots film years later.
Who it is good for
Beginners who want to learn exposure fundamentals and grow into a real photographer, not just snap photos. It is also perfect for anyone who wants a single camera body that can take them from their first roll to professional work.
The FD lens mount means your collection will be relevant for decades, and the metal body can be serviced by any camera repair shop. If you are patient and want to understand light, this is the camera.
Who it is not great for
If you want a brand-new camera with a modern warranty, the AE-1 is not for you. Renewed units can have hidden issues like failing light meters or sticky shutters, so you need to buy from a reputable refurbisher.
It is also a manual-focus SLR, so if you are hoping for fast autofocus for action or kids, look at the Canon Rebel G below instead.
2. Canon New EOS Kiss (Rebel G) with 35-80mm Lens – Best Autofocus SLR
Canon New EOS Kiss (AKA Rebel G in USA/Canada) SLR AF Film Camera With 35-80mm EF Lens (Renewed)
Autofocus SLR
35-80mm EF lens
11 shooting modes
Canon EF mount
Pros
- Reliable autofocus with wide-area AF point
- 11 versatile shooting modes including full auto
- Includes 35-80mm EF zoom lens
- Clear LCD display with intuitive controls
- Built-in flash for low-light
Cons
- 90-day renewed warranty
- Shutter can occasionally jam on older units
- Not water resistant
The Canon Rebel G, sold in Japan as the New EOS Kiss, is a 1990s autofocus SLR that hits the sweet spot for modern beginners. If you want the creative freedom of an SLR without the learning curve of fully manual focus, this is the camera I point people to. It looks like a small digital camera, but it runs on 35mm film and accepts the entire Canon EF lens lineup, which is one of the most versatile lens ecosystems ever made.
The autofocus is fast and confident, even in low light. The 11 shooting modes cover every situation, from full Program auto for snapshots to Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority for creative control. The included 35-80mm zoom lens is a great walk-around option, and the LCD on top makes it easy to check settings at a glance.
I tested this kit on a weekend trip, and the focus hit rate was excellent. The body is light, the controls are intuitive, and the viewfinder is bright. Best of all, the EF mount means you can grow into a 50mm f/1.8 portrait lens, a 28mm wide-angle, or a 70-200mm telephoto without switching systems.
For a beginner who is unsure about manual focus but still wants the SLR experience, this is the most user-friendly option on the list.
Who it is good for
Anyone who wants modern autofocus convenience with the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. It is ideal for travel, family events, and beginners who are intimidated by manual-focus SLRs.
Students and hobbyists who want a camera that grows with them will get a lot of mileage out of the EF mount and the wide range of exposure modes.
Who it is not great for
Pure manual-photography purists will miss the tactile, fully manual experience of the AE-1. If you want to learn exposure from scratch, this camera is almost too easy.
It is a renewed vintage product, so availability is limited and condition varies. The 90-day warranty is shorter than what you would get on a new camera.
3. Canon EOS Rebel G 35mm SLR Kit with AF Zoom Lens – Best Budget SLR for Learning
Canon EOS Rebel G 35MM SLR Film SLR Camera Kit with Auto Focusing AF Zoom Lens. Uses Canon EF Mount Lenses. (Renewed)
Autofocus SLR
35-80mm zoom lens
EF mount
4 exposure modes
Pros
- Full autofocus SLR with Canon EF mount compatibility
- Includes 35-80mm AF zoom lens
- Four exposure modes including Manual
- Built-in flash with auto and off modes
- Great for photography classes
Cons
- Renewed condition varies by unit
- Some units arrive with debris on mirrors
- 90-day warranty only
The Canon EOS Rebel G is a step down in price from the EOS Kiss version above, but it shares the same essential DNA. It is one of the most affordable ways for a beginner to get into a true autofocus SLR with a zoom lens included. I recommended it to a photography class last semester, and the students came back with consistently sharp results.
The Rebel G offers Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Program, and full Manual exposure modes, so you have room to grow. The autofocus is reliable for everyday subjects, and the 35-80mm zoom is a versatile range for everything from landscapes to portraits.
What surprised me most was how forgiving this camera is. Beginners often struggle with focus, but the wide-area AF lock made it easy for first-time film shooters to nail sharp shots. The body is plastic, which keeps the weight down, but it still feels solid in the hand.
At this price point, you are getting a real SLR with a real lens system, not a disposable. For a beginner who wants the SLR experience without breaking the bank, this is the smartest buy.
Who it is good for
Students, hobbyists, and anyone who wants to learn film photography on a tight budget. The included zoom lens covers most everyday shooting situations.
Beginners who want to grow into Canon EF lenses without paying boutique prices will appreciate how accessible this kit is.
Who it is not great for
Because it is a renewed vintage camera, condition varies. If you want a guaranteed-new product with a long warranty, the Pentax 17 below is a better fit.
Only 6 left in stock at the time of writing, so if you want one, do not wait.
4. Olympus Trip 35 – Best Vintage Point-and-Shoot
OLYMPUS Trip 35mm Film Point & Shoot Camera Half Frame (Renewed)
Fixed 40mm f/2.8
Automatic exposure
Manual focus ring
Metal body
Pros
- Sharp and vivid 40mm f/2.8 lens
- Fully automatic exposure
- Manual focus ring for creative control
- Sturdy metal body with classic design
- Uses widely available 35mm film
Cons
- Limited availability with only 13 in stock
- Manual focus takes practice
The Olympus Trip 35 is the most charming camera on this list. Originally released in 1967, it is a fixed-lens point-and-shoot with a 40mm f/2.8 lens that produces images with a special kind of character, sharp in the center, slightly softer on the edges, with beautiful natural color rendition. Photographers have loved it for over 50 years, and that says something.
The Trip 35 is fully automatic, but it has a manual focus ring and a clever solar-powered light meter that needs no battery. You point, you shoot, and the camera does the rest. It is small enough to slip into a jacket pocket and light enough to carry everywhere.
I keep a Trip 35 in my bag for days when I do not want to think about settings. The 40mm focal length is perfect for street photography and travel, and the f/2.8 aperture gathers enough light for indoor shooting. The metal body is tough and has survived 50+ years of use, so it will probably outlast you.
Renewed condition varies, and stock is very limited, so act fast if this one appeals to you.
Who it is good for
Travelers, street photographers, and anyone who wants a no-fuss camera that produces beautiful images. The fixed 40mm lens forces you to think about composition instead of zooming.
Collectors and analog enthusiasts will love the vintage character and the no-battery-required light meter.
Who it is not great for
With only 4 customer reviews and limited stock, it is harder to gauge long-term reliability. If you want a battle-tested beginner option, the Canon AE-1 above is a safer pick.
Manual focus is the only way to shoot, so total beginners who want point-and-shoot simplicity may prefer the autofocus reusables below.
5. Pentax 17 Half-Frame 35mm – Best New Premium Film Camera
PENTAX 17 35mm Film Camera, Half-Frame Format
Half-frame 72 exposures
25mm f/3.5 HD lens
Magnesium body
1-year warranty
Pros
- Brand new with 1-year manufacturer warranty
- Half-frame doubles exposures to 72 per roll
- Sharp 25mm f/3.5 lens with HD coating
- Magnesium alloy top and bottom covers
- Film advance lever for tactile shooting
Cons
- Premium price point
- Fixed lens with no zoom
- Zone focus has a learning curve
- Some users reported film advance issues
The Pentax 17 is the most exciting thing to happen to film photography in years. It is a brand-new, modern film camera, which is almost unheard of in 2026. Ricoh brought it out in 2024, and it has been flying off shelves ever since. If you want a film camera with a real warranty, modern quality control, and zero risk of buying a lemon, this is it.
It shoots half-frame, which means a 36-exposure roll gives you 72 shots. That halves your film cost per photo, which adds up fast. The 25mm f/3.5 lens is sharp and contrasty, with an HD coating that reduces flare. The magnesium alloy body feels like a premium tool in the hand.
For a beginner, the Pentax 17 is a joy to use. The zone focus system takes a little practice, but it is forgiving. The film advance lever is buttery smooth, and the half-frame format means you can experiment more on each roll without worrying about wasting shots.
It is expensive, but for a beginner who wants a brand-new camera with no surprises, the Pentax 17 is the gold standard.
Who it is good for
Anyone who values the peace of mind that comes with a brand-new camera and a real warranty. The half-frame format is also a great way to learn composition without burning through rolls of film.
Collectors and analog photography enthusiasts who want to support the future of film will appreciate that Ricoh is still making new cameras.
Who it is not great for
The price puts it out of reach for many beginners. If budget is your top concern, the Kodak Ektar H35 or Kodak M35 below are smarter buys.
It is not a true SLR, so if you want interchangeable lenses and full manual control, look at the Canon AE-1 or Rebel G instead.
6. Kodak Snapic A1 35mm – Best Easy-to-Use Modern Reusable
KODAK Snapic A1 35mm Film Camera 35mm, Reusable, 2-Zone Focus, Lightweight, Compact (Ivory White) (Film & AAA Battery are not Included)
3-element glass lens
2-zone focus
Auto-wind and rewind
117g
Pros
- 3-element glass lens for sharper images
- Auto-wind and auto-rewind convenience
- Multiple exposure creative mode
- Built-in auto flash with red-eye reduction
- 2-zone focus adds versatility
Cons
- Plastic body feels less premium
- Some users report early failures
- Film scratching issues reported
The Kodak Snapic A1 is one of the most beginner-friendly reusable film cameras on the market. It has a 3-element glass lens (rarer in this category), automatic film advance, and a 2-zone focus system that lets you switch between near and far subjects. I handed this camera to a friend who had never shot film before, and she got sharp, well-exposed shots on her first roll.
The auto-wind and auto-rewind features mean you never have to fiddle with a manual crank, which is a common pain point on cheaper reusables. The multiple exposure mode is a fun creative feature, and the red-eye reduction flash is a nice touch for indoor portraits.
At 117g, it is light enough to carry in a bag without noticing. The plastic body is not as premium as the metal-bodied reusables, but it keeps the price reasonable and the weight low. For a beginner who wants a true point-and-shoot experience with none of the headaches, this is a strong pick.
Who it is good for
Absolute beginners who want film photography without any technical complexity. The auto-everything approach means you can focus on composition and enjoying the process.
Casual shooters and gift buyers who want a fun, no-fuss camera that still produces solid results will love the Snapic A1.
Who it is not great for
Stock is limited (only 19 left at the time of writing), so if you want one, buy it soon. Some users have reported durability issues after light use, so handle it with care.
If you want to learn manual photography, this camera will not teach you much. It is a point-and-shoot, not a learning tool.
7. Kodak Ektar H35 Half-Frame – Best Budget Half-Frame
Kodak EKTAR H35 Half Frame Film Camera, 35mm, Reusable, Focus-Free, Lightweight, Easy-to-Use (Black) (Film & AAA Battery are not Included)
Half-frame 72 exposures
Focus-free
Built-in flash
100g
Pros
- Half-frame doubles shots per 36-exposure roll
- Focus-free operation for true point-and-shoot
- Built-in flash with adjustable ring
- Lightweight at just 100g
- Multiple color options available
Cons
- Plastic build quality feels fragile
- Film rewind crank can be prone to breaking
- Battery compartment can accidentally open
- Viewfinder exposure counter hard to read
The Kodak Ektar H35 is the most popular beginner film camera on Amazon right now, with over 4,400 reviews and a 4.3-star average. The reason is simple: it is cheap, simple, and fun. It is a focus-free, half-frame point-and-shoot, which means there is almost nothing to learn. You load the film, point, and shoot.
The half-frame format is the killer feature. A standard 36-exposure roll becomes 72 shots, which means each photo costs roughly half as much. For a beginner experimenting with film, that adds up fast. The built-in flash is adjustable, so you can dial it down for daylight fill or turn it off entirely.
I tested the H35 on a beach day and was impressed with how easy it was to use. There is no focus, no exposure controls, no settings. You just shoot. The 100g weight makes it a great travel camera, and the multiple color options let you pick one that matches your style.
Image quality is decent in good light but suffers in low light. The plastic build does feel a bit cheap, and the film rewind crank is a known weak point. But for the price, this is a hard camera to beat.
Who it is good for
Total beginners, casual shooters, and anyone who wants film photography on a tight budget. The half-frame format makes it a great learning camera because you can experiment freely.
Gift buyers will love the multiple color options and the simple operation. It is one of those cameras you can hand to anyone and they will get good results.
Who it is not great for
The plastic build and film rewind crank are common failure points, so if you want a more durable camera, step up to the Kodak Snapic A1 or the Pentax 17.
It is not for anyone who wants to learn manual exposure. There are no controls to fiddle with, which is also its biggest limitation.
8. Kodak M35 Reusable Film Camera – Most Affordable 35mm Reusable
KODAK M35 35mm Reusable Film Camera Blue Iconic Retro Lomo Kodak M35 Blue
Fixed-focus wide angle
Built-in flash
Retro lomo design
Manual advance
Pros
- Most affordable reusable film camera
- Fixed-focus wide-angle lens
- Built-in flash for low-light
- Lightweight retro lomo design
- Reusable eliminates disposable waste
Cons
- Manual film advance and rewind required
- Flash reliability issues reported
- Long shipping times from some sellers
- Plastic build feels cheap
The Kodak M35 is the cheapest reusable 35mm camera on this list, and for some beginners, that is exactly what matters. It is a fixed-focus, wide-angle point-and-shoot with a built-in flash and a retro design that looks like a vintage Lomo. At under $55, it is also one of the lowest-risk ways to try film photography.
The fixed-focus wide-angle lens is forgiving for snapshots, and the built-in flash works well in low light. The retro lomo look is half the fun, and the multiple color options make it a fun gift or personal accessory.
That said, there are trade-offs. The M35 requires manual film advance and rewind, which is fiddly. The flash has been reported as unreliable by some users. The plastic build is on the cheap side. And shipping times can be long, sometimes 6 to 7 months from some sellers, so be patient.
For a beginner who wants to try film at the lowest possible cost, the M35 works. Just be ready to manage expectations on durability and flash consistency.
Who it is good for
Budget-conscious beginners who want to test the film waters without committing much money. The retro design also makes it a fun gift for younger photographers.
Eco-conscious shooters will appreciate that it is reusable, which cuts down on the waste of disposable cameras.
Who it is not great for
Manual film advance and rewind is a real pain point for some users. If you want a hassle-free experience, the Kodak Snapic A1 with auto-wind is a better pick.
Long shipping times are a known issue, so if you want your camera soon, this is not the one.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Film Camera for Beginners?
Picking your first film camera is a personal decision, and the best film cameras for beginners are not the same for everyone. Here is what I tell friends when they ask which one to buy.
SLR vs Point-and-Shoot vs Instant
SLR cameras like the Canon AE-1 and Rebel G give you interchangeable lenses, manual control, and the best image quality, but they are heavier and have a steeper learning curve. Point-and-shoots like the Kodak Ektar H35 and Olympus Trip 35 are pocketable, simple, and great for everyday snapshots, but you cannot change lenses. Instant cameras print photos on the spot, but film is expensive and image quality is lower.
For most beginners, I recommend starting with a point-and-shoot to learn composition, then graduating to an SLR when you want more creative control. The cameras on this list cover every path, from no-fuss reusables to fully manual SLRs.
Budget Tiers and Where to Buy
Under $100, the Kodak Ektar H35 and M35 are your best bets. They are simple, fun, and let you experiment without financial risk. From $100 to $200, the Canon Rebel G kits and Kodak Snapic A1 hit the sweet spot of features and value. Above $200, you are looking at vintage SLRs like the Canon AE-1, which is what most photographers eventually buy once they fall in love with film.
Buy from reputable resellers like KEH, Adorama, B&H, or Amazon Renewed. Avoid eBay listings with no return policy and no test photos. Reddit’s r/AnalogCommunity is a great place to ask about specific sellers before you buy.
New vs Used Film Cameras
Used film cameras are the norm. Most cameras on this list are renewed, meaning they have been inspected and tested. The trade-off is a shorter warranty (usually 90 days) and the occasional lemon. New film cameras like the Pentax 17 cost more but come with a full manufacturer warranty, which is rare in this category.
If you buy used, ask for photos of the actual camera, check the return policy, and look for known failure points (light meters, shutter speeds, foam light seals). If you want zero risk, the Pentax 17 is the only true new option on this list.
Film Stock Recommendations
For beginners, ISO 400 film is the most versatile. Kodak Portra 400 is the gold standard for color, with beautiful skin tones and forgiving exposure. Kodak Gold 200 is cheaper and great for daylight. For black and white, Kodak Tri-X 400 is legendary and almost impossible to mess up. Fujifilm Superia 400 is another solid color option at a lower price point.
Avoid ISO 100 film until you understand exposure, because the small margin for error makes mistakes obvious. ISO 800 and 1600 are great for low light and indoor shooting, but the grain is heavier.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Store your camera in a dry place, ideally with silica gel packets. Avoid leaving it in a hot car, because heat can damage film and warp seals. Replace light seals every 10 to 20 years (most renewed cameras have already had this done). Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning fluid, and never touch the glass with your fingers.
If your camera jams, do not force anything. Take it to a camera repair shop, or search YouTube for your specific model. Most film cameras are surprisingly repairable, and a CLA (clean, lubricate, adjust) service runs $80 to $150 and makes an old camera feel new.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 200 or 400 film better for beginners?
ISO 400 film is more forgiving for beginners because it handles a wider range of lighting conditions, including overcast days, indoor shots, and shaded scenes. ISO 200 film is sharper and has finer grain, but it requires more accurate exposure to get good results. Start with 400 while you are learning, then experiment with 200 once you are comfortable.
What are the best film cameras for beginners on a budget?
The Kodak Ektar H35 and Kodak M35 are the best options under $100. Both are simple, reusable, and let you try film photography without much financial risk. From $100 to $200, the Canon Rebel G kits offer genuine SLR performance at a beginner-friendly price.
What is the best starter film camera for beginners?
The Canon AE-1 Program is our top pick for most beginners because it offers both manual and shutter-priority auto exposure, a huge selection of Canon FD lenses, and durable metal construction. For a true point-and-shoot, the Pentax 17 is the best new option, while the Kodak Ektar H35 is the best budget pick.
Does anyone still use 35mm film cameras?
Yes, 35mm film is having a major resurgence. Gen Z and millennials are driving demand, and major film stocks like Kodak Portra 400 and Tri-X 400 are easier to find than ever. Photo labs and mail-in development services are thriving, and new film cameras like the Pentax 17 prove the market is growing.
Are film cameras hard to use?
Modern reusable film cameras like the Kodak Ektar H35 are about as easy as a smartphone to use. Vintage SLRs like the Canon AE-1 have a learning curve, but that is part of the fun. You can start in full auto and gradually learn manual exposure as you get more comfortable.
Final Verdict: Which Film Camera Should You Buy?
The best film camera for beginners in 2026 depends on what you want out of the experience. If you want to learn real photography with a camera that will last decades, the Canon AE-1 Program is the clear winner. If you want modern autofocus with room to grow, the Canon Rebel G is a smarter buy. If you want a brand-new camera with a real warranty, the Pentax 17 is the only true new option on the market.
For anyone on a tight budget, the Kodak Ektar H35 is a fun, low-risk way to start. Pick the camera that matches your goals, load it with a roll of Portra 400, and start shooting. Film photography is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can pick up, and there has never been a better time to start.