*PLEASE GIVE ME YOUR OPINIONS IN THE COMMENTS!* __________________________________________________________ The tier list isn't a "which camera should you buy" list; but rather going over my experiences and my friends experiences with the cameras, their current short comings, and then an overall grade based on my opinion. Obviously there will be places that cameras can be swapped or I give some forgiveness to some camera over the other camera. I'm definitely biased, as stated when ranking the cameras I've used the most. I think if you watched George's video based on the same perimeters, you'd probably find some stuff to disagree with as well, especially as time/market has changed prices and availability in the last 3 years.
I understand this list is based on your personal experience and the experience of your friends, but can you potentially do a tier list for antique cameras, i.e. older than 1960 or potentially grouped by decade when the camera model was manufactured ?
Actually, in terms of light metering, Olympus and its OTF metering was superior to Nikon / Canon metering at that time and its super small light compact size is perfect. But other than that - the Nikons always felt sturdier to me though. I love both brands. But I’d rather see OM2n instead of OM10 there.
@@bulbigood6558 I understand your point but I don't share your opinion. Analog photography is a long process that includes lens + film + body + negative development + scanning or printing. The video talks about "bodies". Those bodies or "film boxes" as you simplify them, require a lot of design work, engineering, study of materials, etc. I think that they are two difficult cameras to compare because the OM-10 is mid-range and the Nikon F2 or F3 are professional. Perhaps an OM-1 or OM-2 would be more fair.
I remember buying a Contax T3 for $750, used it, sold it for $800, honestly felt like electronics could die at any moment so was eager to let it go. Current prices are LOL! Enjoyed using the Nikon FE and 50mm 1.8 more. Good light to all
Here is my ranking based on my personal professional experience since the 1960s. I did not use the "S Tier" because I did not understand its criteria. Hasselblad, Rolleiflex, Mamiya 7, Canon F1, Olympus OM1, Nikon F5, and Nikon F6 are cameras that I never owned or used but did admire. A Tier (dependable, durable, my personal favorite) Nikon F2 (favorite photojournalism and macro SLR camera) Leica M6 (favorite photojournalism rangefinder camera) Mamiya 220 (favorite wedding camera) B Tier (excellent; almost an A Tier, better than a C Tier) Nikon F4 Nikon F3 Nikon F Leica M1 (used on microscope) Mamiya RB67 (favorite portrait camera) Calumet 4x5 monorail (favorite architectural camera) Nikonos III (favorite underwater camera) Fuji GW67 (favorite medium format field camera) Fuji GSW69 (favorite landscape camera) C Tier (average; backup; expendable) Nikon EM Nikon N70 Nikon N2000 Pentax Spotmatic Pentax ME Fujifilm ST705 Contax G1 Nikon L35 compact Minolta Hi-Matic Canon Canonet QL17 G-III Canon Sure Shot compact Yashica TLR Graflex 4x5 press Mamiya 22 TLR Mamiya C3 TLR Holga toy camera Diana toy camera Mazda/Vivitar toy camera Argus C3 Ansco Standard Speedex 90mm f/4.5 120 folder (6x6cm) Ansco Viking 105mm f/6.3 120 folder (6x9cm) GoPhoto Aqua Pix 35mm Underwater Camera with 30mm fixed lens D Tier (would not buy; cannot recommend) Miranda Sensorex (sold it after it broke the third time within 2 years) Sears 500 MX 35mm SLR (given as a gift) Polaroid (film unavailable) Kodak Instamatic 104 (film unavailable) Leica M10 digital rangefinder (had two bodies with defective sensors)
Being an old timer I have had quite a few 35mm film cameras. I’m surprised you left out the Nikon FM3a. The FM3a is without doubt the best 35mm SLR made by any camera manufacturer ever. I bought mine new in 2001 and still have it. The FM3a is a fully mechanical camera that only needs a couple of button cells to operate the light meter - it still works without batteries. Nikon produced a fully mechanical camera capable of 1/4000 second shutter speed with precision accuracy. I remember the OM-2 which a friend of mine had which was a great camera but the FM3a is the benchmark 35mm SLR film camera. The only other 35mm camera that is on the same level is an M series Leica Rangefinder. I have the Leica MP and that is a work of art. I used Canon as well but every one of them failed and was unable to be repaired. My FM3a is bullet proof.
I picked up an X570 since I read that it’s manual mode had metering (or was it proper / useful metering?). to be honest I need to shoot it. I just admire it right now. Have an XG-M here that I just got recently and don’t know the status thereof, and I have an otherwise nice XE-5 that is jammed up. The XE-5 feels solid. Makes the XG and X570 seem flimsy in a way like the Canon AE-1. But I suspect they were good values new in the day and especially used. I’d’ve considered those in my college days if I (a) knew of them then and (b) the X700 wasn’t in every/most NYC camera store ad in the back of magazines in those days.
You can only truly appreciate the Holga if you understand the advantages of medium format. If you do not understand the Holga, then you do not understand medium format.
My OM1 is ride or die, and since it just wont die... on we ride! Goegeous battle tank with shots people sometimes mistake for digital. Its light meter seems to never miss as well.
Super helpful! For future videos I recommend having a still background behind images as it’s hard to focus on the main image. Might just be me that thinks so but you never know. Thanks for a great list 😄
your comments about the XA2 are valid. I had no concept of how trendy this camera was, before i found one nearly mint for 8 bucks at a random thrift store. It took me a a few rolls to get the correct feel of the limitations of the camera, but at this point i really love it. i have it on me at all times when i leave the house, and the amount of great shots I've gotten with it just because its so pocketable and simple, makes it a truly amazing camera imo.
I also got an XA2 real cheap at a charity shop here in the UK. Great camera, especially for those who want an easy point and shoot. What's the XA 1 like?
@@harpdrago7422 I can't speak to the XA 1, but the original XA is - for me - the one to have: rangefinder focusing and aperature priority give you a lot more control than the other zone-focus fully automatic cameras in the XA series.
@@jimsteinborn I've owned the XA, XA2, and XA4 and used to think the same way but as a pure point-and-shoot, the XA2 in my opinion is better at what a point-and-shoot should do. The OG XA is a great camera that allows good freedom of control, but the XA2 you can slide it out of your pocket, open it, and if you get good enough at estimating distance to your subject you can switch the focus between the 3 selections, all in one motion as you bring it up to your eye, and all you need to do compose and click the shutter. No focusing, no metering, just point and shoot.
I saw a post on the List of Craig for a Graflex. The guy was retiring and moving (FL? Probably) and have me several AND an XA2 in the plastic case with flash. And a few other goodies. I meant to take the XA2 with me in family vacation last month (Easter time) but I didn’t want to risk it. Not familiar enough with it and was it in need of CLA? So I paid too much for an Olympus LT 105 Zoom that cries out “E” trying to extend/retract lens. Ugh. But just before we left I finally found a Nikon 35Ti and had it shipped overnight. That’s Contax T2 $ these days. But my head was still clouded over the Olympus situation. And something bad happened to the 35Ti. How am I supposed to use Sunny F16 with a rain cloud over me? 😂
I just bought an Olympus mju II for two dollars at a thrift shop. I couldn't be happier that I bought a working film camera with a roll of film! I only had to buy a battery and it seems like it works!
How is the XA2 a point and shoot? Its a rangefinder camera to start with… I guess it makes sense on a list where sound of the camera is a factor. How do you rate cameras you haven’t used and keep a straight face?
The XA is a rangefinder, the XA2 is zone focus. People tend to consider it a point and shoot because you get good results just setting it at f8 and firing away.
One of the benefits of an interchangeable lens range finder camera is that because it doesn't have the SLR mechanism the distance between the mount and negative is very short. This allows you to adapt lenses from SLR camera mounts onto the camera, greatly expanding the choice of lenses. This is also a benefit of mirrorless cameras. Among the SLRs, the FD mount has the shortest distance between the lens & negative so I can adapt F-mount & m42 mount lenses onto the camera which is why I own the canon F-1.
There’d be no rangefinder coupling though. Pretty sure among 35mm SLRs the Pen F has the shortest flange distance, among SLRs period its probably the Pentax 110. Being able to adapt M42 and F-mount to an FD body is certainly super useful.
You can't have a best 35mm list without the Nikon FM3a. The camera consistently scores higher points in every category in its format. Even the price is justifiable.
@@finn4240 I think the F6 is the latest 35mm slr, it even works with modern G mount lenses. I think a lot of good and cheaper more modern SLR's are missing.
In hindsight, that camera would be an incredible one to include. I figured the most popular and ones I've had most experience with would be best, as I can draw from that, to make a conclusion. But yes, the FM3a is definitely one of the most underrated cameras to buy today to get into film.
If you mostly do studio work, I believe the best medium format camera is... the behemoth Fuji GX680: bigger than the Mamiya RB/RZ, with some camera movements support (like a 4x5).
I second this. The GX680 is unique among medium format cameras, however, because of size and especially weigth, a pure studio camera. Also, for what this camera and its system offers, its astonishingly cheap now.
I get that you demoted the rolleiflex for being expensive but it makes me sad that it's so low in the ranking. It takes a while to get used to shooting a TLR but some of my favorite personal street photos are from a rolleiflex. It is smaller and quieter than a hasselblad with the same 80mm f2.8 zeiss planar. It also has the unique feature of automatic film loading using a mechanical film thickness sensor which is really neat and makes loading fast and easy. Also, The nikon f2 and f3 are great choices but also the fm/fe/fm2/fe2/fm3a are some of the best 35mm slrs in existence and for sure beat the ae-1, k1000, x700, om10 etc
Yeah, you're definitely right. I have some sort of sourness towards TLRs because of lack of experience with them. They feel so obscure to me, haha. Agreed that most of the Nikon line crush the competitors but that could be for a whole video itself.
@@metalfingersfilm I would watch that video! Something to consider is how affordable nikon lenses are compared to some other mounts like olympus. If you want faster glass or different focal lengths than a nifty 50, the nikon options are cheap and plentiful. For example, an Olympus zuiko 85mm f2 in OM mount is $350 but a nikon ai 85mm f2 is $150 and it's an amazing lens. I think Nikon is the best choice for people who want to build a full kit that's top quality but not too insanely expensive
You missed one great MF camera, the Fuji GF670. Razor sharp lens, compact and it allows you to choose between 6x6 and 6x7. I would definitely get this since it’s basically al mix of the Mamiya 6 and Mamiya 7. Great vid!
Hi, thank you for this video. I could not help to notice the amazing photos you posted as part of this video. Are these photos you took? Do you teach photography too or use preset filters?
I am considering buying a Canon F-1 and would like to know what tier you think the Canon F-1 should be and your objective assessment of it. I'm always watching your videos. Thank you
Ditto on the F-1. I have had the 70s mechanical and 80s electronic. Sooooo nice. Like an F2 or F3 but for a Canon FD shooter. Lots of screens and prisms to choose from. The A-1 is just a tarted up AE-1 that if it doesn’t “squeal” yet then is bound too. Cheap and plasticy. I’ve already commented elsewhere here about my A-series feelings. They were decent. But the hype is too much these days for what they are worth given the conditions they are mostly in nowadays. And I find the A-1 controls dials fiddly. F-1 classically clear and concise. Check the Bay of E for a book called How To Select And Use Canon SLR Cameras by Carl Shipman. Yeah. Physical book! How old timey but you get the real deal. Not internet age advice by people that might not have been born before the internet. It may seem prehistoric but since you’re asking about cameras almost as old as I am, I can say that this was a big part of how I learned. Poor Carl looked old (in the author photo) back then and he probably is no longer with us. But he and his editors knew their stuff. Just so you know, there are several versions of the book. It was updated as new models came out. Older models were dropped. Mine has the “New F-1” but it sounds like you want the older mechanical F-1 (like the 1979 book would have). Good luck!
Enough said. I’ve been a Canon shooter forever but since I started collecting cameras I’ve come to learn the X-700 and SRT101 are two of the best cameras ever made. Well truth be told, the lens is what’s really special about these cameras.
I love my Fuji 690 "texas leica" and i never had to get used to the 6x9 aspect ratio, because its almost identical to the aspect ratio of 35mm film, plus the ability to shoot insanely wide 35mm panoramas is really fun and different. Great lens and huge negatives for cheap price, I would put it A tier personally
I started shooting medium format after picking up a Yashicaflex C as an impulse buy while abroad, and honestly I think it's a great way to start shooting in medium format due to how cheap it is. I managed to find mine for 11,000 yen (Roughly $75), though it's a bit pricier on ebay. The photos I've taken so far have turned out pretty good. They aren't the sharpest or anything but I'm sure it's better than anything a Holga can take. It's also pretty sturdy and it's light enough that I take it with me when I go camping. Overally a great deal. TLRs definitely do take getting used to though, but once you get used to them they're pretty fun to use and they make for great conversation starters.
Bronica deserve to be in this list. The GS-1 has amazing glass and great accessories to hand hold. I'd put it up against the Rb67 any day. Plus it can use flash at all speeds.
Holga 120s are not trash. You can’t diss a camera or review it if you haven’t tried it. And you proceed to show outstanding images… seriously, you show some amazing images and you can’t see how good they are? Makes me severely doubt any opinions you have.
Any camera can create amazing images. Just because it's taken amazing images before, doesn't automatically mean its bad. I don't want to show shit photos to reinforce my opinion... If you think it's great, great! Keep shooting and proving me wrong! But other than sourcing images, my first hand experience seeing people use them, has been not very impressive. I was definitely aggressive on it's ranking, and I'm certainly open to shooting it in future and changing my perception.
Comparatively a holga is trash. The lens is literally plastic, light leaks like a mother, and terrible build quality. They’re for sure fun, but to the other cameras on this list, it’s a toy.
I was surprised that the Bronica ETR 645 series of cameras wasn't on the list. I've had one for many years and have nearly all the lenses available for it. Most lists consider it #2 to only the Mamiya in the 645 category.
The negativity seems really unwarranted about the Holga. They are by far the most accessible and affordable MEDIUM FORMAT camera. A 35 mm p&s isn't really an equivalent recommendation. There is an incredible, active community of photographers who choose to shoot Holga cameras and create amazing photos. To say they have no "bang for their buck" makes me think you've never even shot one. If you had, you wouldn't have needed to steal my photo from Reddit.
that's fair, for the most part, many of the photos I've seen first hand taken on them have been not great, or sharp. Which imo, why shoot medium format if you're not looking to have large resolution, sharp photos, probably going to be used for printing. Yes, obviously any camera is going to have amazing photos, and I don't want to show shitty photos for any camera despite the ranking.
appreciate you standing up for the Holga though, I don't have as much experience with it, as it's cult following, and certainly underrated it. However, out of my friends who own the Holga, they've been pretty disappointed with it, but that comes with any expectations. I'll definitely be looking to picking up a Holga in the future to give a truly fair chance myself with multiple rolls.
@@metalfingersfilm If you don’t have the experience, then say that upfront. Or better yet, why even include the Holga in your ranking then? Just to shit on it? You said in another comment “the more people shoot, the better”, but is shitting on a camera with no personal experience to back it up, WHILE using other peoples’ photos without their permission, really the way to inspire others to shoot film? I encourage you to explore the Holga and Holga photography more. Sounds like you may appreciate the Holga 120GCFN (glass lens) more than the 120N (plastic lens).
@@anna.s.snapshotsdid he at least give you credit for the photo he took from you? I think this guy suffers from the Dunning Kruger effect… the less experience he has the more confident he gets.
Irrespective of any disagreements (pity no OM2 instead of the 10; best viewfinder ever along with the Leicaflex SL, and Rolleiflex in D (that’s a Jail sentence earned there!) because of shape yet the juggernaut 330C above it?) it was great to see so many excellent shots from other photographers. Except, that grainy flashing background was horrendously distracting. In fact, just plain horrendous. What were you thinking ?😮😮😮
You chose the Canon AE-1 over the A-1? The A-1 was a much more versatile camera since it was a true multi-mode and was capable of using a 5fps motordrive.
I share almost everything. I would have given an extra vote to the Pentax 645. The viewfinder, contrary to what you describe, is exceptionally bright and all Pentax lenses are very good especially compared to the price.
The only camera currently in my possession, (which I am about to rescue from storage, if its still there, because i’ve suddenly decided that taking pictures with my phone bores me to tears and losing all of the trappings of the world I grew up in makes me sad,) is my Dad’s old K1000 that I used for that one black and white photography elective in college. Given that I got it for free, is there anything you can tell me about that camera that can give me a more B or A feeling about shooting it to continue my enthusiasm? I don’t really know much about it yet other than it made this list.
hi , some thoughts - Nikons F4 , F5 , F6 with Autofocus lenses are really good. Same for Canon 1V with red ring lenses. Pro film cameras , which are now somewhat affordable and still in good shape.
I would put the Texas Leica in B tier. The 8 shots shouldn't be viewed as a negative. The super wide perspective makes us more of a special purpose camera, but those two points shouldn't drop it any further than B.
A very well made pair of rangefinder medium format cameras from Fuji was the GF670, a folding camera, and a wide version that is not folding. Voigtlander also made an identical version of these as the Bessa iii. When these cameras came out in the late 2000s, they were a very good deal for a new medium format camera. It has both 6x6 and 6x7 in one camera. As you are focusing, the square in the viewfinder adjusts to compensate for parallax. That is something that not even Leica does. The lens is very sharp and can take some really fantastic images. It has Aperture Priority and Exposure Compensation as well. The shutter is the quietest I have ever heard, even quieter than Rolleiflex TLR, which is next to nothing. And it is very portable for a medium format camera, almost up there with Mamiya 6 and 7. The problem with it nowadays is that they are very expensive. Last time I looked the Fujis were between 2 and 3 thousand, and the Voigtlanders even more. I actually got one of the regular GF670s back in 2009 when they were new and cheaper. I was looking for a Mamiya 6 at the time, but couldn’t find one with all three lenses, so I settled for GF670. It’s a shame they stopped making these fantastic cameras. Yes it is only one focal length, but I don’t even think about that when I use it. If it wasn’t for the very hefty price these now go for, I would put them at the top of your list for medium format, both for great quality, portability, versatility and ease of use. To me the only drawback of the camera is that it is an electronic camera that is dependent upon the battery. If the battery dies, the camera dies.
I got an XA2 recently and have had a much more positive experience with it. Focusing can be a little dodgy with it but it's been sharp as they come for the most part
Looking for a nice nikon film cam. I was looking at lomography apparat...but I'm going to spend 150.....I might as well get something with.....all manual controls etc. Thinking on the nikon fm or fm2.
Pentax K1000 is great, but I feel like Spotmatic should be on here for affordability/bang-for-buck as well as access to all the great M42 lenses. Also its looks are simple and elegant, and the camera just works. Great learner camera and as you grow the camera never really hits limitations. Love the tier list regardless.
Honestly, I think that C tier based on price is a bit harsh for the K1000, because the price does vary a bit depending on who's selling it. Even with the same lens, strap, etc., some sell for more, some sell for less. Also, the durability is so good that the camera basically repairs itself. I would put it in B tier instead of C tier. Of course, the K1000 was my first serious camera - film or digital - so I am a bit biased.
No Minolta SLRs considered? Odd. X700? What about the XD7/11? Any of the SRT bodies? And the amazing and still affordable Rokkor glass? More modern SLRs? Nikon F5/F6?! Canon 1n/1v?! The 1v is probably THE best film SLR ever made. Period. The 1n is weather sealed, takes modern EOS EF L lenses, also with IS and is ridiculously cheap for what it offers. Also, there's a whole category of fixed lens compact rangefinders from the 1960s and 1970s with excellent lenses at very affordable prices. Other than that, great list. 24:05 Only $500? For ~$500 you will get a beater of a camera, if you want a clean copy of the GW690III you'll end up closer to USD1,000 now.
Yeah I think it's funny how the only thing that brought it down so low was bc of the electronics. I've never had an issue with mine. Yet the Pentax 67 scored higher 😂 it doesn't come anywhere clooooose to the sharpness of the RZ67.
I love the RZ67 so much too! I bought a Pro ii with the 110mm 2.8 back in 2012 for ~$700 USD (I'm in Australia) and never had one issue with it's electronics or reliability. For about 6 years I shot it at every engagement shoot I did, alongside a Canon 1n and have just gotten the film bug recently. So I'm about to shoot it more now with my kids! Still going strong! (fingers crossed haha) @@adamhymel2386
Mate, ditch the XA2 and grab the og XA. The XA doesn’t pretend to be a point and shoot, it knows it’s a rangefinder, and it’s use flow is a naturally slower one; but you never doubt the focus.
One camera I never seen in lists like this is the Practika Mtl3 it was my first ever 35mm camera and I love it! But a very good interesting video dude!
My opinion would be very biased to me it’s an A it’s very similar to the Pentax k1000 apart from being m42 mount and being split screen focus. I picked mine up for £30 with a Takumar 50 and has never failed after a quick clean up. And I tend to see the body’s go for sale for pretty cheep too!
I have a praktica mtl5, and to me, it seems to fit in with the Pentax k1000/spotmatics, as well as being similar in size and function to cameras such as the Minolta srt series, the canon ftb and others, all larger, fully manual cameras that may possibly survive a zombie apocalypse
I have a Mamiya c330 professional S and a Mamiya 645 - imo I'd swap the position of the c330 and the 645. The bellows on the c330 is a game changer, super bright waist level view finder and amazing glass in the lenses. Maybe it's due to getting the c330 first and getting used to the ergonomics, that I actually find the 645 a bit clunky. Anyway great video!
Great video!! I absolutely love my Olympus Pen EE-3. Soooooo small and pocketable but it takes fantastic photos. Such a fun point and shoot that feels like a more durable disposable camera haha.
I’ve used some newer Nikon film slrs and being able to have autofocus, multiple settings that can be switched to quickly, and the ability on some to use AF and AF-S lenses are great for quicker scenes. And some shoot sooo much quicker for action scenes. Obviously niche use case. I like vintage cameras for the “hipster” aspect as much as anyone, but I started with a Nikon N70 and went on from there and it’s great for getting the best quality for each individual image, especially in this economy with the price of film and you only get 36 exposures or sometimes less. Also newer Nikon slr film cameras have a more modern set up for professionals. F5, F6 and others don’t look “pretty” but I’m in this hobby to take good photographs and not just one that’s pretty or “popular”. You often end up saving money and saving more images off your roll.
You never mentioned the Konica Big Mini. Other than the flex connection from the body to the back wearing out, the build is good and it has great optics. A point you did not cover regarding the Mamiya RB67 is the film backs are available in a range of aspect ratios. Most common is the 6x7, but there also is 6x4.5 and a motorized film advancing 6x8. I have three 6x8 backs and they work great. When paired with the Mamiya K/L 65mm f/4.0 lens, the RB is great for tripod mounted landscape photography. Despite the weight, this is my tote about camera.
Hi, I liked the video in general, would like to see you maybe do a more in-depth tierlist of cameras you have experience with, would be cool to have criticisms based on actual handling rather than "a bit expensive" although I do see why you formatted the video like that. Also, one thing that is completely not your fault is that the grainy background you used when giving example pics totally tanks youtubes bitrate and makes the pics looks compressed and artifact-y. Thanks TH-cam...
Awesome video! The contax T3 and T2 do not share a lens tho. T3 has a 35mm. Imo the biggest difference is the fact that there is a macro mode. The minimum focus distance of the T2 always frustrated me.
While agreeing with many of your comments I would take issue with your preference for the RB over the RZ. The electronic shutter in the latter I have found to be very reliable whereas the mechanical shutter needs regular maintenance with a question mark about the slow speeds which can give problems like most mechanical between lens shutters if heavily used at those speeds. There is also the question of weight which favours the RZ, the fact that the extension tubes link electronically to the shutter, the availability of TTL metering and that many of the lenses are of later and superior design.
I own, or have owned, many of these cameras. And the Holga is every bit as good. Since you brought up value though...I get much more value out of my Holga than I do out of my Leica M6.
Glad you're able to make it work for you! They're certainly nifty cameras if you like toy cameras! In my experience shooting them and having friends own them, they have a difficult time making consistent good images on it!
It's in B, the only cameras on the list I have above it are the Olympus & Nikon, which I standby, especially for the price. Not a bad camera by any means, but the hype for beginners wanting it, has inflated it's price quite substantially.
My cousin had an OM-10 w/manual adapter. I had an OM-1. We shared a flat for a few years. He "borrowed" my OM-1 whenever the opportunity arose. I never "borrowed" his OM-10.
I think all your prices are off. The Contax 645, I got a kit with the 80mm f/2 in 2008 for about $1K. Now, they are going for $4K-$6K. I'm looking now to get a second body. The 80mm is the sharpest yet dreamiest lens I've every used. The Contax has been my baby for almost 15 years. I got the rz67 for ~$1.3K last summer and I've been using that more, but nothing will ever replace the Contax 645 and that 80mm f/2.0. I have 2 Mamiya 645 bodies and I almost never use them because the Contax is so much better.
6x9 is the same aspect as 35mm so I’m not sure why you’d find it confusing. Also the T3 in category D is crazy, price alone should not account for its position, B at worse. Otherwise if mostly agree.
Another outstanding point & shoot camera is the 1st generation Nikon L35AF with ISO1000, 2-stop back light button, 46mm threaded lens barrel, and super sharp 5 element lens.
You can do mirror lock in RB67 and then only the leaf shutter will operate which will eliminate shutter slap. Still not good for street but at least a solution for landscape.
I personally do prefer the Olympus OM-1 - or, if you want automatics, the OM-2 - very much over the OM-10. Much sturdier and more versatile, and with around 100 USD or less still quite cheap. Also, putting the Rolleiflex into C and below the Mamiya C (which in my opinion is the combination of everything bad of aTLR with everything bad of a medium format 6x6 SLR) is of course a sacrilege.I like the TLR camera format, and thus the Rolleiflex belongs into A. Other than that, I can follow your explanations quite well.
What was slanderous about it? They were a decent starting camera in the days when you could still find them for nothing. Now there are better, more reliable cameras with better glass, for cheaper. If they still cost nothing, they'd be great, but it's a camera that cheaped out on some things to undercut the competition and that is no longer reflected in the price
My family had an AE-1 back in the day. I don’t remember it until the early 1980s, by which point the AE-1 Program was out and T-series were about to (or just had) debut. It was a less expensive camera for the time. Maybe that’s why we had it and had it after it’s replacement was on the market. 🤔 It wasn’t that great. I didn’t know it at the time. Then again my dad shot a Yashica Electro GSN because whatever camera he initially bought at the store didn’t come with a lens. Sure the display model had a lens but when he got home, according to his story, he was surprised. Went back and asked where is the lens? Oh it’s extra? Oh this camera (the GSN) comes with a lens for the same price? Okay! Yeah dad didn’t know too much about photography. Had some Polaroid pack-film cameras (a 104 and some other) and we had the One Step in white with the rainbow 🌈 down the front. I mainly used that before the AE-1. But camera and lens kits started to be a thing and with the AE-1 was the obligatory FD 50/1.8. Never got another lens. It broke. Jammed up one day. Got it fixed but in high school we traded it in for an EOS 750. Auto everything. Ugh. If only the 700 was out but that was months away. Or better still the Rebel. Or we looked at Nikon like N2020 or N4004(s). The N6006 was not out yet. Oh well. Actually spending a few more $ for an EOS 630 would’ve been perfect. I did NOT miss the AE-1. The EOS line felt more solid. Never any jam ups. I’d get an EOS 10s and RT a few years later in college and the only issue was the RT’s mirror. I dared to ever so lightly clean it (or blow on it - I forget). Speaking of college, that’s when I actually learned photography. No classes offered but there was technically a club but it was the same friends on the student newspaper. One friend had a K1000. He showed me how to do B&W development. After the 10s and RT I found a Canon F-1 (late 70s version). Lost interest in AF and all the bells and whistles. So in comparison the F-1 to me is up there with the Nikon F2 and F3 (I have both of these too nowadays). The K1000 was a budget camera but a used KM or KX would’ve been better imho. No on or off switch? No DoF? Okay no self timer .. but puh-leeze! Of course those two were off the market for a decade I suppose and the “legend” of the K1000 grew. Actually, give me an MX. oh I got one but the viewfinder shutter speed display is mismatched to the dial by a stop. I hear that happens on the MX. But still it is the nicest - smaller than the older bricks. Too bad the P3/30/whatever had DX ASA/ISO only. No overriding it! And my K1000 friend had a bulk film loader. Don’t get me started about the plethora of no-manual mode Pentax bodies. So it seems the AE-1 had small and light going for it as well as manual everything ability. But the fake metal body (nicely finished and painted/coated plastic) was a bit much (or little I should say). And the manual mode had a big red M in the finder. Like the big red A in The Scarlet Letter? 😂 match needle or match diode metering would’ve been nice. A better learner camera was the AT-1. But Canon made tons of AE-1’s and the prices were low enough and people bought them. Probably kept the aperture ring on A. I certainly didn’t know what it was about until college. That, and reading Popular Photography (“now incorporating Modern Photography”). Although I didn’t understand a lot of what I was reading at first. What is “120”? Why do I see 645 / 66 / 6x6 / 67 a lot? What is medium and large format? What is 45/4x5 ? It was a puzzle I had to piece together. I got there. And in the end I say the AE-1 is certainly a classic, but still “meh”.
The F-1 (70s , mechanical) and “New F-1” (80s-90s , battery-dependent electronic shutter) are akin to the F2 and F3 , respectively. Nicer viewfinder display in my opinion (I have shot with all of them and as of today own most of those or maybe all cuz I swear I have a late 70s F-1 from my college days around here somewhere…). And I have to add that the F3 meter display is awful and the backlight switch for the LCD came from a regular patron of S&M clubs. 😂
Very interesting. I would add the Nikon FM2 on the top of the list. It's for about 200$ cheap, reliable and has the largest and best set of lenses available at a decent price.
6x9 aspect ratio is the same as miniature formats 36x24mm (full frame). The first camera I ever used was a 6x9 medium format ad that was in 1967. 6x9 is good and no more difficult as an aspect ratio as 135 full frame.
I love the OM-10 too, but there's a huge glaring problem and it's that they're wholly unreliable. Plastic parts and cheaper build quality makes it unpredictable. I wish mine would work well, but no matter what I do to it , it fails in some way sooner or later. Belongs in B imo.
I think you could of spent the same amount of time on each format and gotten three shows worth of info out . SLR so many vintage cameras from the 80s alone you can even go backs to 50s or 30s such a great design era also those beautiful wooden large format cameras . I understand if it’s not your jam but I just find camera history so interesting. Oh don’t get me started on Polaroid but some influencer got that covered already
![[Live สด] การออกรางวัลสลากกินแบ่งรัฐบาล งวดวันที่ 16 ธันวาคม 2567](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dNTiBBthKgQ/mqdefault.jpg)
*PLEASE GIVE ME YOUR OPINIONS IN THE COMMENTS!*
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The tier list isn't a "which camera should you buy" list; but rather going over my experiences and my friends experiences with the cameras, their current short comings, and then an overall grade based on my opinion. Obviously there will be places that cameras can be swapped or I give some forgiveness to some camera over the other camera. I'm definitely biased, as stated when ranking the cameras I've used the most. I think if you watched George's video based on the same perimeters, you'd probably find some stuff to disagree with as well, especially as time/market has changed prices and availability in the last 3 years.
I understand this list is based on your personal experience and the experience of your friends, but can you potentially do a tier list for antique cameras, i.e. older than 1960 or potentially grouped by decade when the camera model was manufactured ?
Olympus OM10 better than the F2 and F3? I don't understand anything anymore. I can't keep looking.
Actually, in terms of light metering, Olympus and its OTF metering was superior to Nikon / Canon metering at that time and its super small light compact size is perfect. But other than that - the Nikons always felt sturdier to me though. I love both brands.
But I’d rather see OM2n instead of OM10 there.
All these bodies are just film boxes. Color renders by film, not the camera.
@@bulbigood6558 I understand your point but I don't share your opinion. Analog photography is a long process that includes lens + film + body + negative development + scanning or printing. The video talks about "bodies". Those bodies or "film boxes" as you simplify them, require a lot of design work, engineering, study of materials, etc. I think that they are two difficult cameras to compare because the OM-10 is mid-range and the Nikon F2 or F3 are professional. Perhaps an OM-1 or OM-2 would be more fair.
@@ssilanes Nikon F2 and olympus OM 1, also the best Leica M3 , M6. Contax G1/2
@@dzava OM-4T. I've had two since the early '80s and both still work.
I remember buying a Contax T3 for $750, used it, sold it for $800, honestly felt like electronics could die at any moment so was eager to let it go. Current prices are LOL! Enjoyed using the Nikon FE and 50mm 1.8 more. Good light to all
People who can afford T3 nowadays can definitely afford to lose 2000 usd.😅
BRO, the video on the background is a pain in the ass.
he doesn't realize it mess up with the compression and makes the photo in the middle looks worse on youtube
Here is my ranking based on my personal professional experience since the 1960s.
I did not use the "S Tier" because I did not understand its criteria.
Hasselblad, Rolleiflex, Mamiya 7, Canon F1, Olympus OM1, Nikon F5, and Nikon F6 are cameras that I never owned or used but did admire.
A Tier (dependable, durable, my personal favorite)
Nikon F2 (favorite photojournalism and macro SLR camera)
Leica M6 (favorite photojournalism rangefinder camera)
Mamiya 220 (favorite wedding camera)
B Tier (excellent; almost an A Tier, better than a C Tier)
Nikon F4
Nikon F3
Nikon F
Leica M1 (used on microscope)
Mamiya RB67 (favorite portrait camera)
Calumet 4x5 monorail (favorite architectural camera)
Nikonos III (favorite underwater camera)
Fuji GW67 (favorite medium format field camera)
Fuji GSW69 (favorite landscape camera)
C Tier (average; backup; expendable)
Nikon EM
Nikon N70
Nikon N2000
Pentax Spotmatic
Pentax ME
Fujifilm ST705
Contax G1
Nikon L35 compact
Minolta Hi-Matic
Canon Canonet QL17 G-III
Canon Sure Shot compact
Yashica TLR
Graflex 4x5 press
Mamiya 22 TLR
Mamiya C3 TLR
Holga toy camera
Diana toy camera
Mazda/Vivitar toy camera
Argus C3
Ansco Standard Speedex 90mm f/4.5 120 folder (6x6cm)
Ansco Viking 105mm f/6.3 120 folder (6x9cm)
GoPhoto Aqua Pix 35mm Underwater Camera with 30mm fixed lens
D Tier (would not buy; cannot recommend)
Miranda Sensorex (sold it after it broke the third time within 2 years)
Sears 500 MX 35mm SLR (given as a gift)
Polaroid (film unavailable)
Kodak Instamatic 104 (film unavailable)
Leica M10 digital rangefinder (had two bodies with defective sensors)
Nikon N2000. The best shooting experience with a Nikon I’ve ever experienced other than my new F100 which is so satisfying to shoot as well.
22:17 calls the Holga 120 trash but proceeds to share absolute bangers
Exactly!
@@roxannesque his reviews are trash
hey, even a turd can look sometimes 🤣
You’re videos are so sick @texas3257 really appreciate the effort you put into your channel then shitting on others 🤣🤣
🤡
Being an old timer I have had quite a few 35mm film cameras. I’m surprised you left out the Nikon FM3a. The FM3a is without doubt the best 35mm SLR made by any camera manufacturer ever. I bought mine new in 2001 and still have it. The FM3a is a fully mechanical camera that only needs a couple of button cells to operate the light meter - it still works without batteries. Nikon produced a fully mechanical camera capable of 1/4000 second shutter speed with precision accuracy. I remember the OM-2 which a friend of mine had which was a great camera but the FM3a is the benchmark 35mm SLR film camera. The only other 35mm camera that is on the same level is an M series Leica Rangefinder. I have the Leica MP and that is a work of art. I used Canon as well but every one of them failed and was unable to be repaired. My FM3a is bullet proof.
The Nikon F , F2 and olympus OM 1 are better
Damn no Minolta love for slrs ?No x700 love ? xd11 love ? Smoothest advance lever to ever grace a photographers hands in the xe-7?
I picked up an X570 since I read that it’s manual mode had metering (or was it proper / useful metering?).
to be honest I need to shoot it. I just admire it right now. Have an XG-M here that I just got recently and don’t know the status thereof, and I have an otherwise nice XE-5 that is jammed up. The XE-5 feels solid. Makes the XG and X570 seem flimsy in a way like the Canon AE-1. But I suspect they were good values new in the day and especially used. I’d’ve considered those in my college days if I (a) knew of them then and (b) the X700 wasn’t in every/most NYC camera store ad in the back of magazines in those days.
You used my photos as an example for the Contax G2, so sick!
Just wow ❤ I was looking for a channel about film photography that would have the maximum internal response, and here it is. Thank you very very much
I agree with everything, with the exception of the Rolleiflex. I have the 2.8F with several of its accessories and it's great.
The 2.8F is one of the sharpest lenses I’ve seen on any camera. I’ve scanned a bunch of film from this camera and the images are stunning.
Ye rollei FTW
You can only truly appreciate the Holga if you understand the advantages of medium format. If you do not understand the Holga, then you do not understand medium format.
My OM1 is ride or die, and since it just wont die... on we ride!
Goegeous battle tank with shots people sometimes mistake for digital. Its light meter seems to never miss as well.
OM-1 image quality is second to none.
Why he picked the ten is beyond me bloody thing has too many issues next to my good old om 1 which just need to be used in warm weather
Super helpful! For future videos I recommend having a still background behind images as it’s hard to focus on the main image. Might just be me that thinks so but you never know. Thanks for a great list 😄
I second this comment. A simple black background is all you need. I was getting a headache trying to watch this video.
I agree, it would help with just a simple background.
your comments about the XA2 are valid. I had no concept of how trendy this camera was, before i found one nearly mint for 8 bucks at a random thrift store. It took me a a few rolls to get the correct feel of the limitations of the camera, but at this point i really love it. i have it on me at all times when i leave the house, and the amount of great shots I've gotten with it just because its so pocketable and simple, makes it a truly amazing camera imo.
Awesome to hear! I know I had troubles with it, but it still seems to be such a great pocketable camera!
I also got an XA2 real cheap at a charity shop here in the UK. Great camera, especially for those who want an easy point and shoot. What's the XA 1 like?
@@harpdrago7422 I can't speak to the XA 1, but the original XA is - for me - the one to have: rangefinder focusing and aperature priority give you a lot more control than the other zone-focus fully automatic cameras in the XA series.
@@jimsteinborn I've owned the XA, XA2, and XA4 and used to think the same way but as a pure point-and-shoot, the XA2 in my opinion is better at what a point-and-shoot should do. The OG XA is a great camera that allows good freedom of control, but the XA2 you can slide it out of your pocket, open it, and if you get good enough at estimating distance to your subject you can switch the focus between the 3 selections, all in one motion as you bring it up to your eye, and all you need to do compose and click the shutter. No focusing, no metering, just point and shoot.
I saw a post on the List of Craig for a Graflex. The guy was retiring and moving (FL? Probably) and have me several AND an XA2 in the plastic case with flash. And a few other goodies.
I meant to take the XA2 with me in family vacation last month (Easter time) but I didn’t want to risk it. Not familiar enough with it and was it in need of CLA?
So I paid too much for an Olympus LT 105 Zoom that cries out “E” trying to extend/retract lens. Ugh. But just before we left I finally found a Nikon 35Ti and had it shipped overnight. That’s Contax T2 $ these days. But my head was still clouded over the Olympus situation. And something bad happened to the 35Ti. How am I supposed to use Sunny F16 with a rain cloud over me? 😂
I just bought an Olympus mju II for two dollars at a thrift shop. I couldn't be happier that I bought a working film camera with a roll of film! I only had to buy a battery and it seems like it works!
Damn, living my dream lol
Extremely useful list! I'd love to learn more about 35mm SLRs, review more models, delve more in depth, and explain a bit about their history.
How is the XA2 a point and shoot? Its a rangefinder camera to start with… I guess it makes sense on a list where sound of the camera is a factor. How do you rate cameras you haven’t used and keep a straight face?
Correct, is is a rangefinder, but imo, acts and feels much more similar to the other point and shoots that the two rangefinders I talked about
The XA is a rangefinder, the XA2 is zone focus. People tend to consider it a point and shoot because you get good results just setting it at f8 and firing away.
f/8 and be there!
One of the benefits of an interchangeable lens range finder camera is that because it doesn't have the SLR mechanism the distance between the mount and negative is very short. This allows you to adapt lenses from SLR camera mounts onto the camera, greatly expanding the choice of lenses. This is also a benefit of mirrorless cameras. Among the SLRs, the FD mount has the shortest distance between the lens & negative so I can adapt F-mount & m42 mount lenses onto the camera which is why I own the canon F-1.
There’d be no rangefinder coupling though.
Pretty sure among 35mm SLRs the Pen F has the shortest flange distance, among SLRs period its probably the Pentax 110.
Being able to adapt M42 and F-mount to an FD body is certainly super useful.
never saw your videos but saw your turnover PV vinyl in the back so I know you make bangers! subscribed!
Awesome! Thank you!
You can't have a best 35mm list without the Nikon FM3a. The camera consistently scores higher points in every category in its format. Even the price is justifiable.
its indeed quite litterly the best (and latest) 35mm slr ever made yee also the most expensive for sure
but i think he just doesnt know it
@@finn4240 I think the F6 is the latest 35mm slr, it even works with modern G mount lenses. I think a lot of good and cheaper more modern SLR's are missing.
In hindsight, that camera would be an incredible one to include. I figured the most popular and ones I've had most experience with would be best, as I can draw from that, to make a conclusion. But yes, the FM3a is definitely one of the most underrated cameras to buy today to get into film.
Yeah any of the more modern F cameras are probably great. Newer functions, ergonomics, usability, mechanics, etc.
1k for a 35mm? gtfo
If you mostly do studio work, I believe the best medium format camera is... the behemoth Fuji GX680: bigger than the Mamiya RB/RZ, with some camera movements support (like a 4x5).
I second this. The GX680 is unique among medium format cameras, however, because of size and especially weigth, a pure studio camera. Also, for what this camera and its system offers, its astonishingly cheap now.
I get that you demoted the rolleiflex for being expensive but it makes me sad that it's so low in the ranking. It takes a while to get used to shooting a TLR but some of my favorite personal street photos are from a rolleiflex. It is smaller and quieter than a hasselblad with the same 80mm f2.8 zeiss planar. It also has the unique feature of automatic film loading using a mechanical film thickness sensor which is really neat and makes loading fast and easy. Also, The nikon f2 and f3 are great choices but also the fm/fe/fm2/fe2/fm3a are some of the best 35mm slrs in existence and for sure beat the ae-1, k1000, x700, om10 etc
Yeah, you're definitely right. I have some sort of sourness towards TLRs because of lack of experience with them. They feel so obscure to me, haha. Agreed that most of the Nikon line crush the competitors but that could be for a whole video itself.
And the whisper quiet shutter, the parallax system and the cheaply available but still v. sharp filter bayonet Mount close up lens sets etc.
@@metalfingersfilm I would watch that video! Something to consider is how affordable nikon lenses are compared to some other mounts like olympus. If you want faster glass or different focal lengths than a nifty 50, the nikon options are cheap and plentiful. For example, an Olympus zuiko 85mm f2 in OM mount is $350 but a nikon ai 85mm f2 is $150 and it's an amazing lens. I think Nikon is the best choice for people who want to build a full kit that's top quality but not too insanely expensive
You missed one great MF camera, the Fuji GF670. Razor sharp lens, compact and it allows you to choose between 6x6 and 6x7. I would definitely get this since it’s basically al mix of the Mamiya 6 and Mamiya 7. Great vid!
Hi, thank you for this video. I could not help to notice the amazing photos you posted as part of this video. Are these photos you took? Do you teach photography too or use preset filters?
I am considering buying a Canon F-1 and would like to know what tier you think the Canon F-1 should be and your objective assessment of it. I'm always watching your videos. Thank you
Get an A-1 and thank me later. Way better shooting experience with the A-1 than the overhyped F-1.
I have F-1, F-1n and AE-1P, The F-1 is my preferance due to fully mechanical and better build quality.
Ditto on the F-1. I have had the 70s mechanical and 80s electronic. Sooooo nice. Like an F2 or F3 but for a Canon FD shooter. Lots of screens and prisms to choose from.
The A-1 is just a tarted up AE-1 that if it doesn’t “squeal” yet then is bound too. Cheap and plasticy. I’ve already commented elsewhere here about my A-series feelings. They were decent. But the hype is too much these days for what they are worth given the conditions they are mostly in nowadays. And I find the A-1 controls dials fiddly. F-1 classically clear and concise.
Check the Bay of E for a book called How To Select And Use Canon SLR Cameras by Carl Shipman. Yeah. Physical book! How old timey but you get the real deal. Not internet age advice by people that might not have been born before the internet. It may seem prehistoric but since you’re asking about cameras almost as old as I am, I can say that this was a big part of how I learned. Poor Carl looked old (in the author photo) back then and he probably is no longer with us. But he and his editors knew their stuff.
Just so you know, there are several versions of the book. It was updated as new models came out. Older models were dropped. Mine has the “New F-1” but it sounds like you want the older mechanical F-1 (like the 1979 book would have). Good luck!
I own both the Canon A1 and F1. The F1 is absolutely amazing, I now own 5 of them.
Where's the Minolta representation :(
talk about a great starter camera the SRT-101 and the X-700
Enough said. I’ve been a Canon shooter forever but since I started collecting cameras I’ve come to learn the X-700 and SRT101 are two of the best cameras ever made. Well truth be told, the lens is what’s really special about these cameras.
That thumbnail is some high-quality trolling. Lol.
I love my Fuji 690 "texas leica" and i never had to get used to the 6x9 aspect ratio, because its almost identical to the aspect ratio of 35mm film, plus the ability to shoot insanely wide 35mm panoramas is really fun and different. Great lens and huge negatives for cheap price, I would put it A tier personally
I started shooting medium format after picking up a Yashicaflex C as an impulse buy while abroad, and honestly I think it's a great way to start shooting in medium format due to how cheap it is. I managed to find mine for 11,000 yen (Roughly $75), though it's a bit pricier on ebay. The photos I've taken so far have turned out pretty good. They aren't the sharpest or anything but I'm sure it's better than anything a Holga can take. It's also pretty sturdy and it's light enough that I take it with me when I go camping. Overally a great deal. TLRs definitely do take getting used to though, but once you get used to them they're pretty fun to use and they make for great conversation starters.
Bronica deserve to be in this list. The GS-1 has amazing glass and great accessories to hand hold. I'd put it up against the Rb67 any day. Plus it can use flash at all speeds.
Agreed, GS-1 should be on this list, would certainly be A tier imo
Holga 120s are not trash. You can’t diss a camera or review it if you haven’t tried it. And you proceed to show outstanding images… seriously, you show some amazing images and you can’t see how good they are? Makes me severely doubt any opinions you have.
Any camera can create amazing images. Just because it's taken amazing images before, doesn't automatically mean its bad. I don't want to show shit photos to reinforce my opinion... If you think it's great, great! Keep shooting and proving me wrong! But other than sourcing images, my first hand experience seeing people use them, has been not very impressive. I was definitely aggressive on it's ranking, and I'm certainly open to shooting it in future and changing my perception.
Comparatively a holga is trash. The lens is literally plastic, light leaks like a mother, and terrible build quality. They’re for sure fun, but to the other cameras on this list, it’s a toy.
Bruh holgas ARE trash he sounds like a brokie 😂
"I think therfore I'm right"
GOD FORBID anyone that has an opinion 🙄
I was surprised that the Bronica ETR 645 series of cameras wasn't on the list. I've had one for many years and have nearly all the lenses available for it. Most lists consider it #2 to only the Mamiya in the 645 category.
Thanks for sharing, very interesting! Are the photos you used selected randomly or were each of these taken with the camera in question?
They were taken with the camera talked about!
The negativity seems really unwarranted about the Holga. They are by far the most accessible and affordable MEDIUM FORMAT camera. A 35 mm p&s isn't really an equivalent recommendation. There is an incredible, active community of photographers who choose to shoot Holga cameras and create amazing photos. To say they have no "bang for their buck" makes me think you've never even shot one. If you had, you wouldn't have needed to steal my photo from Reddit.
TH-cam film people can have the most uninformed opinions. It’s always on the worst spectrum usually like this video.
that's fair, for the most part, many of the photos I've seen first hand taken on them have been not great, or sharp. Which imo, why shoot medium format if you're not looking to have large resolution, sharp photos, probably going to be used for printing. Yes, obviously any camera is going to have amazing photos, and I don't want to show shitty photos for any camera despite the ranking.
appreciate you standing up for the Holga though, I don't have as much experience with it, as it's cult following, and certainly underrated it. However, out of my friends who own the Holga, they've been pretty disappointed with it, but that comes with any expectations. I'll definitely be looking to picking up a Holga in the future to give a truly fair chance myself with multiple rolls.
@@metalfingersfilm If you don’t have the experience, then say that upfront. Or better yet, why even include the Holga in your ranking then? Just to shit on it? You said in another comment “the more people shoot, the better”, but is shitting on a camera with no personal experience to back it up, WHILE using other peoples’ photos without their permission, really the way to inspire others to shoot film? I encourage you to explore the Holga and Holga photography more. Sounds like you may appreciate the Holga 120GCFN (glass lens) more than the 120N (plastic lens).
@@anna.s.snapshotsdid he at least give you credit for the photo he took from you? I think this guy suffers from the Dunning Kruger effect… the less experience he has the more confident he gets.
Irrespective of any disagreements (pity no OM2 instead of the 10; best viewfinder ever along with the Leicaflex SL, and Rolleiflex in D (that’s a Jail sentence earned there!) because of shape yet the juggernaut 330C above it?) it was great to see so many excellent shots from other photographers.
Except, that grainy flashing background was horrendously distracting. In fact, just plain horrendous. What were you thinking ?😮😮😮
You chose the Canon AE-1 over the A-1? The A-1 was a much more versatile camera since it was a true multi-mode and was capable of using a 5fps motordrive.
I share almost everything. I would have given an extra vote to the Pentax 645. The viewfinder, contrary to what you describe, is exceptionally bright and all Pentax lenses are very good especially compared to the price.
I agree here
I agree more. The Pentax 645 is such a pleasure to shoot with. I lend mine to other photographers and I have to pry it out of their hands every time.
how about canon FTb ?? i can get it in 110 bucks, is it worth it or i can get another camera more better in the same range price ??
Great video. I would love to try some of the A/S tier cameras, but for now I am trying to make my grandpa's Zorki & FED cameras work :D
Not sure how the pentax645 is less usable than even the mamiya 7 and not a better option with its multiple metering than the mamiya 645....
The only camera currently in my possession, (which I am about to rescue from storage, if its still there, because i’ve suddenly decided that taking pictures with my phone bores me to tears and losing all of the trappings of the world I grew up in makes me sad,) is my Dad’s old K1000 that I used for that one black and white photography elective in college. Given that I got it for free, is there anything you can tell me about that camera that can give me a more B or A feeling about shooting it to continue my enthusiasm? I don’t really know much about it yet other than it made this list.
hi , some thoughts - Nikons F4 , F5 , F6 with Autofocus lenses are really good. Same for Canon 1V with red ring lenses. Pro film cameras , which are now somewhat affordable and still in good shape.
personally thought the fuji 6×9 would have ranked a little bit higher but im biased super sharp lens lol great video !
Just wondering are there any film cameras around that are no more than $200 in new condition (that also has a timer)?
i challenge you to experiment with a Holga! They can produce beautiful, unique images. And they’re super inexpensive :)
I definitely will be!!
was one of those pics at the overture center in madison, wi
I would put the Texas Leica in B tier. The 8 shots shouldn't be viewed as a negative. The super wide perspective makes us more of a special purpose camera, but those two points shouldn't drop it any further than B.
That's fair; if I had more time w/ the big sucker I would probably be more convinced.
Great video, thank you, can you please do a budget video? These prices are insane now
Have the same issues with the XA’s. People love them but I don’t have many successes with it.
A very well made pair of rangefinder medium format cameras from Fuji was the GF670, a folding camera, and a wide version that is not folding. Voigtlander also made an identical version of these as the Bessa iii. When these cameras came out in the late 2000s, they were a very good deal for a new medium format camera. It has both 6x6 and 6x7 in one camera. As you are focusing, the square in the viewfinder adjusts to compensate for parallax. That is something that not even Leica does. The lens is very sharp and can take some really fantastic images. It has Aperture Priority and Exposure Compensation as well. The shutter is the quietest I have ever heard, even quieter than Rolleiflex TLR, which is next to nothing. And it is very portable for a medium format camera, almost up there with Mamiya 6 and 7. The problem with it nowadays is that they are very expensive. Last time I looked the Fujis were between 2 and 3 thousand, and the Voigtlanders even more. I actually got one of the regular GF670s back in 2009 when they were new and cheaper. I was looking for a Mamiya 6 at the time, but couldn’t find one with all three lenses, so I settled for GF670. It’s a shame they stopped making these fantastic cameras. Yes it is only one focal length, but I don’t even think about that when I use it. If it wasn’t for the very hefty price these now go for, I would put them at the top of your list for medium format, both for great quality, portability, versatility and ease of use. To me the only drawback of the camera is that it is an electronic camera that is dependent upon the battery. If the battery dies, the camera dies.
I got an XA2 recently and have had a much more positive experience with it. Focusing can be a little dodgy with it but it's been sharp as they come for the most part
Looking for a nice nikon film cam. I was looking at lomography apparat...but I'm going to spend 150.....I might as well get something with.....all manual controls etc. Thinking on the nikon fm or fm2.
Pentax K1000 is great, but I feel like Spotmatic should be on here for affordability/bang-for-buck as well as access to all the great M42 lenses. Also its looks are simple and elegant, and the camera just works. Great learner camera and as you grow the camera never really hits limitations.
Love the tier list regardless.
Honestly, I think that C tier based on price is a bit harsh for the K1000, because the price does vary a bit depending on who's selling it. Even with the same lens, strap, etc., some sell for more, some sell for less. Also, the durability is so good that the camera basically repairs itself. I would put it in B tier instead of C tier. Of course, the K1000 was my first serious camera - film or digital - so I am a bit biased.
No Minolta SLRs considered? Odd. X700? What about the XD7/11? Any of the SRT bodies? And the amazing and still affordable Rokkor glass?
More modern SLRs? Nikon F5/F6?! Canon 1n/1v?! The 1v is probably THE best film SLR ever made. Period. The 1n is weather sealed, takes modern EOS EF L lenses, also with IS and is ridiculously cheap for what it offers.
Also, there's a whole category of fixed lens compact rangefinders from the 1960s and 1970s with excellent lenses at very affordable prices.
Other than that, great list.
24:05 Only $500? For ~$500 you will get a beater of a camera, if you want a clean copy of the GW690III you'll end up closer to USD1,000 now.
Listen to this commenter if you want a list of the best cameras to buy.
Fixed lens compact rangefinders from 60s/70s?
Canonet QL17 (G-III et al) ! 🎉
24:19 what do you mean: 'The unique aspect ratio'? 6x9 is the most common aspect ratio it is the same as 135 frame aspect ratio 3:2
Oh I'm really beginning to love these tier list videos. If for no other reason the extremely entertaining comment section. LOL
@@tubewatcher155 facts
I paid $70 for my K1000 a few years ago at an antique store. I'm the 2nd owner. It came with the original manual.
$70 isn't bad!! Where would you rank it based on your experience?
@@metalfingersfilm A tier for sure. best camera for beginners. easiest light meter ever.
idk about his experience with the Pentax 645 but mine is pretty good and bright
RZ67 in C because of its electronics and Contax T2 and G2 in A… lol
Yeah I think it's funny how the only thing that brought it down so low was bc of the electronics. I've never had an issue with mine. Yet the Pentax 67 scored higher 😂 it doesn't come anywhere clooooose to the sharpness of the RZ67.
I love the RZ67 so much too! I bought a Pro ii with the 110mm 2.8 back in 2012 for ~$700 USD (I'm in Australia) and never had one issue with it's electronics or reliability. For about 6 years I shot it at every engagement shoot I did, alongside a Canon 1n and have just gotten the film bug recently. So I'm about to shoot it more now with my kids! Still going strong! (fingers crossed haha)
@@adamhymel2386
what do you recommend for good p&s that doesn't break the bank? I've seen t4's at an alright price. I've just heard the plastic can fall apart
Canon SureShot WP-1.
If you know you know 😉
Mate, ditch the XA2 and grab the og XA. The XA doesn’t pretend to be a point and shoot, it knows it’s a rangefinder, and it’s use flow is a naturally slower one; but you never doubt the focus.
Yeah, I definitely should. Wasn't a huge fan of the XA2 obviously
Except nothing other than the original XA. Olympus dumbed down every model afterward.
One camera I never seen in lists like this is the Practika Mtl3 it was my first ever 35mm camera and I love it! But a very good interesting video dude!
I've never even heard of it, haha. Where would you rate it, and why?
My opinion would be very biased to me it’s an A it’s very similar to the Pentax k1000 apart from being m42 mount and being split screen focus. I picked mine up for £30 with a Takumar 50 and has never failed after a quick clean up. And I tend to see the body’s go for sale for pretty cheep too!
I have a praktica mtl5, and to me, it seems to fit in with the Pentax k1000/spotmatics, as well as being similar in size and function to cameras such as the Minolta srt series, the canon ftb and others, all larger, fully manual cameras that may possibly survive a zombie apocalypse
@@danpetreikis I am glad some one else has had one let alone heard of them!
I have a Mamiya c330 professional S and a Mamiya 645 - imo I'd swap the position of the c330 and the 645. The bellows on the c330 is a game changer, super bright waist level view finder and amazing glass in the lenses. Maybe it's due to getting the c330 first and getting used to the ergonomics, that I actually find the 645 a bit clunky. Anyway great video!
Very good video, but I miss there the Olympus Om2 and the Nikon FM2
What about the Nikon F?
XA2 is a good camera but most people dont know how to zone focus.
Great video!! I absolutely love my Olympus Pen EE-3. Soooooo small and pocketable but it takes fantastic photos. Such a fun point and shoot that feels like a more durable disposable camera haha.
I’ve used some newer Nikon film slrs and being able to have autofocus, multiple settings that can be switched to quickly, and the ability on some to use AF and AF-S lenses are great for quicker scenes. And some shoot sooo much quicker for action scenes. Obviously niche use case. I like vintage cameras for the “hipster” aspect as much as anyone, but I started with a Nikon N70 and went on from there and it’s great for getting the best quality for each individual image, especially in this economy with the price of film and you only get 36 exposures or sometimes less. Also newer Nikon slr film cameras have a more modern set up for professionals. F5, F6 and others don’t look “pretty” but I’m in this hobby to take good photographs and not just one that’s pretty or “popular”. You often end up saving money and saving more images off your roll.
You never mentioned the Konica Big Mini. Other than the flex connection from the body to the back wearing out, the build is good and it has great optics.
A point you did not cover regarding the Mamiya RB67 is the film backs are available in a range of aspect ratios. Most common is the 6x7, but there also is 6x4.5 and a motorized film advancing 6x8. I have three 6x8 backs and they work great. When paired with the Mamiya K/L 65mm f/4.0 lens, the RB is great for tripod mounted landscape photography. Despite the weight, this is my tote about camera.
ROFL that thumbnail got me. Knew you couldn’t think those gems were D tier
;)
Hi, I liked the video in general, would like to see you maybe do a more in-depth tierlist of cameras you have experience with, would be cool to have criticisms based on actual handling rather than "a bit expensive" although I do see why you formatted the video like that. Also, one thing that is completely not your fault is that the grainy background you used when giving example pics totally tanks youtubes bitrate and makes the pics looks compressed and artifact-y. Thanks TH-cam...
Awesome video! The contax T3 and T2 do not share a lens tho. T3 has a 35mm. Imo the biggest difference is the fact that there is a macro mode. The minimum focus distance of the T2 always frustrated me.
Oh damn, I didn't know that!! Small, small details that can make a big difference though!
While agreeing with many of your comments I would take issue with your preference for the RB over the RZ. The electronic shutter in the latter I have found to be very reliable whereas the mechanical shutter needs regular maintenance with a question mark about the slow speeds which can give problems like most mechanical between lens shutters if heavily used at those speeds. There is also the question of weight which favours the RZ, the fact that the extension tubes link electronically to the shutter, the availability of TTL metering and that many of the lenses are of later and superior design.
I own, or have owned, many of these cameras. And the Holga is every bit as good. Since you brought up value though...I get much more value out of my Holga than I do out of my Leica M6.
Glad you're able to make it work for you! They're certainly nifty cameras if you like toy cameras! In my experience shooting them and having friends own them, they have a difficult time making consistent good images on it!
a wild list. Rollei in C tier? sir.
I know I know, I feel I'll come to regret that, haha.
mate, how're you gonna put the AE-1 so low because of its price but commend the low prices of other manual SLRs that cost twice as much?
It's in B, the only cameras on the list I have above it are the Olympus & Nikon, which I standby, especially for the price. Not a bad camera by any means, but the hype for beginners wanting it, has inflated it's price quite substantially.
My cousin had an OM-10 w/manual adapter. I had an OM-1. We shared a flat for a few years. He "borrowed" my OM-1 whenever the opportunity arose. I never "borrowed" his OM-10.
No mention of the Canon Elan 7e?
I think all your prices are off. The Contax 645, I got a kit with the 80mm f/2 in 2008 for about $1K. Now, they are going for $4K-$6K. I'm looking now to get a second body. The 80mm is the sharpest yet dreamiest lens I've every used. The Contax has been my baby for almost 15 years. I got the rz67 for ~$1.3K last summer and I've been using that more, but nothing will ever replace the Contax 645 and that 80mm f/2.0. I have 2 Mamiya 645 bodies and I almost never use them because the Contax is so much better.
I live in latin america and i found a K1000 made in Japan for 20$, amazing deal for such a great camera
6x9 is the same aspect as 35mm so I’m not sure why you’d find it confusing. Also the T3 in category D is crazy, price alone should not account for its position, B at worse. Otherwise if mostly agree.
Cool and interesting video. Thanks. A popfilter for the mic would be great ✌🏼
If your RZ67 electronically fails, you can use the RB lens on the camera and it'll still work!
Another outstanding point & shoot camera is the 1st generation Nikon L35AF with ISO1000, 2-stop back light button, 46mm threaded lens barrel, and super sharp 5 element lens.
You can do mirror lock in RB67 and then only the leaf shutter will operate which will eliminate shutter slap. Still not good for street but at least a solution for landscape.
I personally do prefer the Olympus OM-1 - or, if you want automatics, the OM-2 - very much over the OM-10. Much sturdier and more versatile, and with around 100 USD or less still quite cheap. Also, putting the Rolleiflex into C and below the Mamiya C (which in my opinion is the combination of everything bad of aTLR with everything bad of a medium format 6x6 SLR) is of course a sacrilege.I like the TLR camera format, and thus the Rolleiflex belongs into A. Other than that, I can follow your explanations quite well.
How would you rate the Minox GT-E ?
I love minox 35s such a cool mini camera
I’m so sick of these TH-cam film influencers.
Why? I am curious
@@Piegeonny They're causing film prices to rise
@@MossPaloneoh I thought it was the ae-1 slander out of the gate
What was slanderous about it? They were a decent starting camera in the days when you could still find them for nothing. Now there are better, more reliable cameras with better glass, for cheaper. If they still cost nothing, they'd be great, but it's a camera that cheaped out on some things to undercut the competition and that is no longer reflected in the price
My family had an AE-1 back in the day. I don’t remember it until the early 1980s, by which point the AE-1 Program was out and T-series were about to (or just had) debut. It was a less expensive camera for the time. Maybe that’s why we had it and had it after it’s replacement was on the market. 🤔
It wasn’t that great. I didn’t know it at the time. Then again my dad shot a Yashica Electro GSN because whatever camera he initially bought at the store didn’t come with a lens. Sure the display model had a lens but when he got home, according to his story, he was surprised. Went back and asked where is the lens? Oh it’s extra? Oh this camera (the GSN) comes with a lens for the same price? Okay! Yeah dad didn’t know too much about photography. Had some Polaroid pack-film cameras (a 104 and some other) and we had the One Step in white with the rainbow 🌈 down the front. I mainly used that before the AE-1.
But camera and lens kits started to be a thing and with the AE-1 was the obligatory FD 50/1.8. Never got another lens. It broke. Jammed up one day. Got it fixed but in high school we traded it in for an EOS 750. Auto everything. Ugh. If only the 700 was out but that was months away. Or better still the Rebel. Or we looked at Nikon like N2020 or N4004(s). The N6006 was not out yet. Oh well. Actually spending a few more $ for an EOS 630 would’ve been perfect.
I did NOT miss the AE-1. The EOS line felt more solid. Never any jam ups. I’d get an EOS 10s and RT a few years later in college and the only issue was the RT’s mirror. I dared to ever so lightly clean it (or blow on it - I forget).
Speaking of college, that’s when I actually learned photography. No classes offered but there was technically a club but it was the same friends on the student newspaper. One friend had a K1000. He showed me how to do B&W development. After the 10s and RT I found a Canon F-1 (late 70s version). Lost interest in AF and all the bells and whistles.
So in comparison the F-1 to me is up there with the Nikon F2 and F3 (I have both of these too nowadays). The K1000 was a budget camera but a used KM or KX would’ve been better imho. No on or off switch? No DoF? Okay no self timer .. but puh-leeze! Of course those two were off the market for a decade I suppose and the “legend” of the K1000 grew. Actually, give me an MX. oh I got one but the viewfinder shutter speed display is mismatched to the dial by a stop. I hear that happens on the MX. But still it is the nicest - smaller than the older bricks. Too bad the P3/30/whatever had DX ASA/ISO only. No overriding it! And my K1000 friend had a bulk film loader. Don’t get me started about the plethora of no-manual mode Pentax bodies.
So it seems the AE-1 had small and light going for it as well as manual everything ability. But the fake metal body (nicely finished and painted/coated plastic) was a bit much (or little I should say). And the manual mode had a big red M in the finder. Like the big red A in The Scarlet Letter? 😂 match needle or match diode metering would’ve been nice. A better learner camera was the AT-1. But Canon made tons of AE-1’s and the prices were low enough and people bought them. Probably kept the aperture ring on A. I certainly didn’t know what it was about until college. That, and reading Popular Photography (“now incorporating Modern Photography”). Although I didn’t understand a lot of what I was reading at first. What is “120”? Why do I see 645 / 66 / 6x6 / 67 a lot? What is medium and large format? What is 45/4x5 ? It was a puzzle I had to piece together. I got there.
And in the end I say the AE-1 is certainly a classic, but still “meh”.
Shame there haven't been more Canon cameras featured in the video. Any opinions on the F-1n SLR and P rangefinder?
Sadly, neither my friends nor I have shot many canon cameras over the years, so I don't have too much to say. Which should I check out specifically?
The F-1 (70s , mechanical) and “New F-1” (80s-90s , battery-dependent electronic shutter) are akin to the F2 and F3 , respectively. Nicer viewfinder display in my opinion (I have shot with all of them and as of today own most of those or maybe all cuz I swear I have a late 70s F-1 from my college days around here somewhere…). And I have to add that the F3 meter display is awful and the backlight switch for the LCD came from a regular patron of S&M clubs. 😂
what music do you use in the background?
Very interesting. I would add the Nikon FM2 on the top of the list. It's for about 200$ cheap, reliable and has the largest and best set of lenses available at a decent price.
6x9 aspect ratio is the same as miniature formats 36x24mm (full frame). The first camera I ever used was a 6x9 medium format ad that was in 1967. 6x9 is good and no more difficult as an aspect ratio as 135 full frame.
Canon AE1 expenisve? you can pick them up for under 100
Subscribed for the TWSS!
I love the OM-10 too, but there's a huge glaring problem and it's that they're wholly unreliable. Plastic parts and cheaper build quality makes it unpredictable. I wish mine would work well, but no matter what I do to it , it fails in some way sooner or later. Belongs in B imo.
What camera is beside the OM10 in the S-Tier? You skipped over that.
I think you could of spent the same amount of time on each format and gotten three shows worth of info out . SLR so many vintage cameras from the 80s alone you can even go backs to 50s or 30s such a great design era also those beautiful wooden large format cameras . I understand if it’s not your jam but I just find camera history so interesting. Oh don’t get me started on Polaroid but some influencer got that covered already
music at 19:00?