a film camera for idiots like me.

If you have ever been curious about taking film photos, this camera might be one of the easiest and most sensible places to start.

Getting into film can feel intimidating. There is a lot of noise around legendary cameras, rising prices, and what you supposedly need to know before you even load your first roll.

But I recently picked up a Yashica FX-3 from a second hand vintage camera store and almost immediately fell in love with it.

I was not looking for anything rare or collectible. I just wanted a film camera that felt good to use and did not make the process feel too complicated or too precious. This FX-3 ended up being exactly that.

It produces excellent image quality, but it is still very affordable, especially if you look around second hand or vintage camera shops. You get a solid, well built camera without paying collector prices.

One of my favourite details is how approachable it feels to use. There is a small light meter built in, with a simple button you can press to check if your image is too bright, too dark, or correctly exposed. It really simplifies the whole process and takes away a lot of that initial anxiety about whether or not your photos will turn out okay.

Plus, the camera itself feels honest. Nothing flashy or too delicate. It feels used, but in a good way. It encourages me to slow down slightly, look more carefully, and be intentional about what I’m shooting.

A few frames from my first roll:

If you have been thinking about trying film, or coming back to it, the Yashica FX-3 might honestly a great place to begin, it surely has been for me

Good quality. Fair price. No unnecessary complications.

Sometimes all it takes is the right tool to make you want to pay attention again.

Cheers,

Arteri