From one fanboy to another: top video. The 35 SP is one of those cameras that you can't fully appreciate until you get the photos from the first roll of film back.
Great review, really loved the style of your videos. :) I believe putting the lens cap on an SP does not turn off its meter, as its sensor is at the top right corner of the body and not by the lens like on an RC. Not a big problem though as you can just put it inside your bag to dim out the sensor window therefore effectively turning the meter off.
Oh I see. The SP easily is my favorite camera (still hunting for a black version) and I myself is an Oly fanboy, love my OM series. :) Cheers and Thanks again for the videos
Nice video The exposure metering still on even you cover your lens because the light meter is on the left-upper corner next to the view finder. the best way to save the battery is putting it to the bag Nice Camera I usually get a little bit overexposed from my camera ( according to my camera's light meter)
Thanks, I've had this for about four years, and not used it. Shocking I know! But at last I know how to use it, thanks to your video, haha! I will trial in this weekend perhaps.
Iam not going to fall into the trap of debating Leica vs anything on the internet i dont have the time or the interest :) BUT i will say that i have a Olympus Trip 35 and i can see its a much simpler version of this. I really like the fact that on this camera you have all the settings you need on the lens itself!
The 35SP is a terrific camera for the reasons outlined. I've shopped for one several times, but failed because I always seemed to run into meter failure problems. When comparing the 35SP to other Olympus cameras, the best comparison would be to the 35RD, not the 35RC [which is more of a point-n-shoot]. The RD is a generation later, and is much more like the Canon QL17 GIII, which I think is the standard of comparison for this style of 35mm camera.
Thanks for the nice video. I recently bought a used SP and look forward to using it. In looking it over, I found that the light meter sensor, above the lens, remains active even when the lens cap is on. So, covering the lens does not prevent battery drain. Best to keep the camera in the dark when not using it. As for other excellent rangefinder cameras, I would highly recommend the Minolta CLE. It has TTL metering and interchangeable lenses. I used to own one, and regret selling it.
It's best, in it that its extremely simple unlike a Leica and suitable even for noobs. I have used a trip 35 which is almost similar. The selenium metering works brilliantly.
Lovely, a joy to use but fragile - so check, check, check before parting with (a lot of) money. The Canon Canonet QL17 is generally tougher and cheaper, but perhaps not quite so cute. Loved them both.
Olympus has always made great optics--just look at the microscopes in medical facilities, but I'd cast my vote for the Konica Auto S2, followed by the Olympus XA. I have a number of the "compact" 35mm cameras from Olympus, Minolta, Yashica, Canon, Petri, Konica, etc and the quality of these cameras is very much underrated. Excellent video! Thanks!
After putting two rolls through an oly 35 trip (both episodes on my channel), I'm bitten by the film bug, and after watching your review for the 3rd time (and a few other excellent reviews), I'm sold. Now eagerly awaiting the courier to deliver my 35SP. Awesome review and channel mate. Regards Paul
In the later 1990s, I spent several years looking for a good condition, fully working 35SP. I never found one, the most common problems being defects in the meter, either fully inoperative or the spot meter switching not working. I gave up without finding one. The lens probably was the best available in a fixed lens rangefinder model at its time, however is certainly is not the best every put in a camera of this type. The 40mm 1.7 used in the later Olypus RD is better, and the 40mm 1.7 put in the Canonet QL17 GIIIS is probably still better than the Oly. The RD is fairly hard to find, but the Canon is quite commonly available..
This is an excellent and also very efficient review - all the intro you need to this superb camera in less than ten minutes. "Chapeau," as they say. One thing though. Covering the lens doesn't turn off the meter on the SP, unfortunately. Unlike on the 35RD and DC (the rare all-auto version of the RD) and of course the lovely little 35RC, the SP's metering cell is not in the lens. It's right next to the viewfinder window you look through, behind the narrow window on the extreme right if you're looking at the front of the camera. So to turn the meter off you have to either put the camera back into its never-ready case (which is though a beautiful thing of proper leather on a metal frame, if you can find one...) or improvise a kind of cover of your own just for that window - or, like silencing a minah bird or parrot, put the camera into the dark, either by dropping it into your camera bag or throwing a blackout hood over it... ...which is of course a huge pity : a 35SP that's not in immediate use is one of the nicest things to hang on your wall from a hook above your desk. Even with a lens cap on though, this will drain the battery. So it's not necessarily advisable... Great review/guide, though. Good job, Sir. Thanks
Hi. Yes you're right and a few people pointed it out to me after making the video. And of course I learnt also when my battery did drain. I think i didn't notice because I mostly shoot fully manual. The SP is gone now as part of my effort to vastly reduce the camera hoard and embrace minimalism. The RC though is surgically attached to me :)
Your video looked beautiful. I love Olympus from this era. My favourite camera ever was my OM-1. Talking about batteries - only today I pulled out a Yashica FX3 from the back of a cupboard (which takes two coin cells for the meter). They had never been changed and this camera was bought new in 1980! Yes the meter still worked? PS Zuiko lenses are special, all of 'em.
in the US they sell the Wein Cell MRB625 at Adorama and it is an exact replacement for the old mercury PX625/PX13, PX675, and RM400 with the correct size and voltage. Some people say they drain too fast and you should keep them out of the camera when not in use, but I haven't tried any yet
Yes that battery is the correct replacement except it doesn't hold its charge like the Mercury ones did, so it turns out to be a very expensive option.
That's excessively kind of you :) It depends, the price depends on the day really. You can luck out on eBay and grab one for $10 or they can be up to $200 all depending on the seller, the condition of the camera, whether or not it's been tested, professionally cleaned, e.t.c
Hey man, loved this review, your videos are really enjoyable to watch, are you UK based, can't place your accent! I have just received my SP, wanted one for a while, what I'd heard about the lens got stuck in my head, got myself a bargain(or so I hope) on eBay, beautiful cosmetic condition and seems to be operating soundly since replacing the battery. Bought some Kodak 400 tmax as my first roll for this camera, can't wait to start using it, fingers crossed there's no hidden problems!
You've got yourself one of the best, seriously. I really love mine. Yes, I'm based in the UK. You can't totally get that by my accent though, I've got a kind of 'International' accent having grown up all over the place. Thanks for watching Ian.
carlos karam LOL at "sir" :) It all depends on the condition of the camera. I've seen mint and near-mint ones go for about £180 - £200 on eBay. I've also seen some with a few bumps here and there go for much much less, like £30 or so.
Old Cameras i have one just gifted to me like 1 hour ago and i just cried cuz i wanted a camera any camera so im happy oh and thank you your a youtuber who acually rolys to cmnts and cares thanks old cameras ill be def subbing and sharing your channel hope thats get you alot off subbs
This is almost identical to the Canon Canonet QL17 series. But, the biggest advantage to the Olympus is the ability to meter in manual mode. The Canon only meters in full auto, which can be a bit of a pain.
great camera, but for me it is too big, my favorite rangefinder is the Werra 3, from Carl Zeiss Jena, made in the 50s. It has interchangeable lenses and is very small, but does not look as weird as the Rollei 35
Great review, helpful stuff; thanks. :) I've been looking into the SP, RC and RD a little, because I'm interested in getting one for my girlfriend, as well as for me in future. I think the RC might be in the lead for her. We'll see. :)
The RC has the size advantage I think, without sacrificing much in terms of quality. The RD is kind of harder to find in good condition. To be honest, you can't go wrong with any of them.
Same here. As a big Olympus (SLRs) fan I was a bit suspicious when I was given a QL17 giii. However, that soon became one of my fave street cameras. However, the 35SP has always intrigued me. Now prices have skyrocketed, but I am still looking for one here and there...
Putting the lens cap on does not de-activate the metering - the metering is done via the window to the right of the viewfinder when looking from the front. The camera needs to be kept in the leather case (or in a dark place) to turn the metering off.
Odd, I had the SPn - it had a very loud Seiko shutter that was as loud as a DSLR but half the duration of the sound. Wonder if they changed the shutter between the SP and the SPn...
+LeeToTheVI LOL thanks man. Those images cost money like £1 a snap so it makes you sit there thinking about your bank account. It kind of motivates the art :)
After watching this video, I bought this camera on impulse hahaha. Do you have any focusing/zone focusing tips? This is a lot different than my SLRs, but I love it! Cheers!
Hi, that's great. You'll love it. Focusing is easy and accurate on this because it has a rangefinder that takes the 'guesswork' out of it. i've never used zone focusing on it, but It does have the distance scale on the top part of the lens so you can see the numbers easily. I'd say when you're at f8, set to 1m for single person portrait, 1.5m for two people head/shoulders shot, at somewhere between 3 and 5 m for everything should be in focus from 3 m to infinity.
Hello, I have been enjoying your reviews for a while now and I have finally been convinced to get a 35mm film camera. Are there any you can recommend which do not need new batteries every time they run out and is able to be used like a digital camera in aperture priority? If there are any inexpensive and easy to use options I would really appreciate your advice. I am hoping to use it for street photography. Thanks.
Thanks for watching. Let me see, those are hard criteria to meet. Normally if you want aperture priority, then you need batteries to operate the light meter and shutter speed mechanism. The batteries don't usually run out quickly like in Digital because there's usually no LCD to power. SLR: I'd check out something like a CanonT70 or a Praktica BX20.. both cheap SLRs that give you aperture priority with long battery life. The batteries are also readily available in the shops - (not obscure ones you have to order online only) Rangefinder: Hmm.. I'll say try the Yashica Electro 35 GSN or GTN. They will give you aperture priority but you need batteries. You can use modern equivalent batteries that are relatively long lasting as well. The lens is amazing. The only camera I can think of right now that does not need batteries but is not full-manual is the Canonet. However, this is shutter-priority, not aperture priority. Those are the 'cheap' options. A more expensive option is the Olympus XA. It has aperture-priority and takes amazing photos. The batteries last very long. Hope that helps.
Thank you very much. Am I right in assuming that with film cameras the batteries are non-rechargeable? Sorry about my lack of camera knowledge I think I was wrong in saying simply aperture priority, auto ISO is what I meant. I am okay with setting aperture and shutter speed but auto ISO is helpful but it is a moot point as I assume that would also require batteries to operate. Thanks again for the recommendations, they look really good and I will be most likely picking up one but before I do could I ask if there are any cameras you can recommend which are in the £150 range?
Harry Peckover OMG. £150 is a good budget for a film camera. What style of camera do you prefer DSLR or Mirrorless? The reason I ask is there are so many many many styles of film cameras. You can buy fully classic manual ones that are manual everything.. or fully electronic ones that are 1 step away from being digital. With film, ISO is static. It's the speed of the film you buy. So each roll of film has its own ISO and you cant change it (well, there are ways called pushing and pulling), but in general you'd have to wait till you load another film for the ISO to change. When you 'set the ISO' on the film camera, you're simply telling the camera what the speed of the film you're putting in is.. so the camera's light meter can calculate the exposure correctly. Most old film cameras that use batteries use those button cell types (hearing aid type). Those can't be recharged. However many film cameras do use AA and AAA batteries - Alkaline or Rechargeable. Of course these cameras can't charge the batteries. You'd have to use an external charger. You can get generic ones. For £150, You can probably grab yourself an Olympus 35SP off eBay. For me I think this is the best you can do without heading for a Leica, which will set you back a LOT more :) With this camera, you can go Full Manual, SLR style, maybe something like a Nikon F3. That's pushing the budget a bit, but you can grab that. Or maybe a Canon EOS 300 (very cheap) but will give you awesome photos, and feels like you're using a digital SLR. You can also use rechargeable batteries with that. If you just want to take photos and never have to worry about batteries, then try the Olympus Trip 35. All you have to do is focus. Cheers
@@OldCameras word. I own the QL17, got the all black for for a great price. Finishing up my first roll soon. Looking forward to seeing what I get. I've never shot with a rangefinder before so I'm excited. Also, recently picked up a Canon P. Would be curious as to your thoughts on that one as well.
I don’t think the markings are glow in the dark, they are just fluorescent, which means they convert ultraviolet (black light) into other colors, so they only glow under a black light. The metering system has no switch but it isn’t affected at all by the lens cap. What you do it keep the camera in the dark or turn the ISO setting to 25 and it uses almost no power when metering darkness.
How could anyone forget the RD?. I did use the RD quite extensively before it found a new home. The max aperture on the RD and SP are the same - f1.7 The RD's advantage over the SP is the size.
Nice camera!! Pretty ahead of it's time with SP option. Nice!! Oh.. I have a Canonet QL17.. The way the Canon and this camera work about draining battery without lens cap is.. simply take it off "A" mode that runs meter. Then you don't have keep cover lens risking forgetting taking it off for a picture. Been there done that before I knew this info.
wonderful review, I got one on order, really looking forward to getting going with it after this! could you tell me the best place to get film developed thanks?
I don't think the LR44 fits. Also there's probably a voltage issue if you find an adaptor for the LR44 to make it fit. I use the Wein EPX-625 battery. Basically anything 625 from Amazon will do.
I'll suggest the the SP is not the best of this type of camera, but it is an "also ran" when compared the Oly's own RD and the Canon QL17 G-III. My reasoning is that the SP is an earlier design, bigger, heavier and lacking some of the convenience features of the later models. The SP lens is excellent, but the 40mm 1.7 lenses in both the QL17 and the RD are its equal or better, being probably the two best lenses ever put in cameras of this type. Between the RD and the QL17, I personally prefer the Canon because it is readily available and although rising in price, is still less expensive to acquire than the RD (if found). All three cameras use the mercury 1/35 volt cell, so some workaround is required on all. You can "cap" the QL17 and RD to reduce battery flow, and you can switch them off the "auto aperature setting to actual turn off the meter. The SP never turns off the meter, but it meters in non-auto and well and auto, which the others do not. The SP spot meter function is a nice feature, but 95% of the users will never use it, and in the 3 -4 SPs I've handled over the last 20 years, it's been defective. [Note re QL!7 and RD not metering in manual: you meter in auto normally, and if you want to modify the exposure from "auto" setting as read in viewfinder, you just reset the aperature to your preferred aperature-shutter combination. Or, you decide your exposure preference, then move the viewfinder in "auto" to get whatever you want, then trap that exposure with pressure on the shutter release, reframe composure and shoot.]
Thanks Randall for all the great info. I also used the RD for a while and loved so much. I sold it because it has a reputation to gum up and die after a while. Apparently it is inevitable. Without that one issue, I would agree that it beats the SP.
It was an error in the video. You're right, the camera has to be put in it's leather case to stop the battery from draining. I really should overlay some text on the video to correct that. sorry.
The problem its too big and focal length is not 35mm.I was thinking put yashica 35cc 's lens at this camera is perfect but it seems not so possible lol
Yes and no :) Yes; I still think when it came out, it kicked everything else' behind. No; it needs the leather case to preserve battery life (or you have to take the battery out). Also I'm an Olympus Fanboy :) so take that with a grain of salt.
Oooh, tough call. Yashica Electro 35, Canonet QL17, Konica Auto S2 and Rollei 35 are contenders too. I agree that it's better than Leica, though. That ridiculous loading on the Leica, all because of their pride. The one thing I would change though is to make the lens 35mm, not 42. It's true that 42 looks just like what we see with our eyes, but it is often not enough to fit everything into the frame. Spot metering? Woo, that's a heavy hit. NO ONE else could do that, back in those days. ..and the choice between M, P, S and A? Also, no one else could do it. It's just that 42mm is totally useless for landscapes and architcture in cities. (where there's no room to back up)
"This is no doubt the best 35mm Rangefinder ever made"...There are a lot of doubts about your declaration. Leica M3 is the best rangefinder camera ever made.
- I had to stop this interesting video due to that music in the background. Ut would have been so much better without music, that way I could have listen to you instead. I will try to use texting and watch it without sound.
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
From one fanboy to another: top video. The 35 SP is one of those cameras that you can't fully appreciate until you get the photos from the first roll of film back.
+oly 35mm Absolutely. You know when I said "7 elements in 5 groups" I was thinking of you :) haha.
It makes us sound all clever-like.
Great review, really loved the style of your videos. :) I believe putting the lens cap on an SP does not turn off its meter, as its sensor is at the top right corner of the body and not by the lens like on an RC. Not a big problem though as you can just put it inside your bag to dim out the sensor window therefore effectively turning the meter off.
Thanks for that. Someone pointed it out to me when I first made the video. Cheers. I usually jake the battery out when I'm not using it.
Oh I see. The SP easily is my favorite camera (still hunting for a black version) and I myself is an Oly fanboy, love my OM series. :) Cheers and Thanks again for the videos
Very pleasant camera review with some quirky humour. Excellent job, thank you :)
Thanks Michael.
Nice video
The exposure metering still on even you cover your lens because the light meter is on the left-upper corner next to the view finder.
the best way to save the battery is putting it to the bag
Nice Camera
I usually get a little bit overexposed from my camera ( according to my camera's light meter)
You always get overexposed pictures compared to what the camera says?
I owned two of them, Loved them both! Gave them to friends who still use them.
Thanks, I've had this for about four years, and not used it. Shocking I know! But at last I know how to use it, thanks to your video, haha! I will trial in this weekend perhaps.
Let me know if you want to sell yours :)
Iam not going to fall into the trap of debating Leica vs anything on the internet i dont have the time or the interest :)
BUT i will say that i have a Olympus Trip 35 and i can see its a much simpler version of this. I really like the fact that on this camera you have all the settings you need on the lens itself!
the Leica vs Everything debate will rage on till the end of the world :)
A really excellent review - well shot - thanks so much!
I'm a fanboy, had my 35SP for years and love it. But I still learned something from your excellent review.
Thanks David.
The 35SP is a terrific camera for the reasons outlined. I've shopped for one several times, but failed because I always seemed to run into meter failure problems. When comparing the 35SP to other Olympus cameras, the best comparison would be to the 35RD, not the 35RC [which is more of a point-n-shoot]. The RD is a generation later, and is much more like the Canon QL17 GIII, which I think is the standard of comparison for this style of 35mm camera.
Thanks for the nice video. I recently bought a used SP and look forward to using it. In looking it over, I found that the light meter sensor, above the lens, remains active even when the lens cap is on. So, covering the lens does not prevent battery drain. Best to keep the camera in the dark when not using it.
As for other excellent rangefinder cameras, I would highly recommend the Minolta CLE. It has TTL metering and interchangeable lenses. I used to own one, and regret selling it.
The Minolta CLE is pretty much a Leica right? It certainly has the design aesthetics. I hope to review it sometime this year.
Yes, I believe the CLE was a coordinated effort. Look forward to your review.
I unscrew the battery when not using the camera to totally turn the meter off
Best rangefinder ever? I hear you bro but I hope you know kung fu because Leica might send ninjas your way for blasphemy lol.
Hahaha. I need that NEO program from the Matrix quick.
Best is relative. Best automation in a rangefinder for it's time? Yes, totally!
It's best, in it that its extremely simple unlike a Leica and suitable even for noobs. I have used a trip 35 which is almost similar. The selenium metering works brilliantly.
Maybe Leica would send some tiger tanks after you than some ninjas.
Part of being the best is also bang for your buck... Leica is WAY over priced in my opinion.
Lovely, a joy to use but fragile - so check, check, check before parting with (a lot of) money. The Canon Canonet QL17 is generally tougher and cheaper, but perhaps not quite so cute. Loved them both.
You don't turn off the light meter by putting on the lens cap. You have to fully cover the camera with the case.
very good video and a cool Hammond music
Thanks :)
Olympus has always made great optics--just look at the microscopes in medical facilities, but I'd cast my vote for the Konica Auto S2, followed by the Olympus XA. I have a number of the "compact" 35mm cameras from Olympus, Minolta, Yashica, Canon, Petri, Konica, etc and the quality of these cameras is very much underrated. Excellent video! Thanks!
Thank you very much. That Konica Auto S2 is awesome. One day I'll make a video for sure. Cheers
Serious review man! Excellent work with your channel. Now I need to buy one of these.
:) Thanks man. Sorry I cost you money lol
Once again, excellent, brilliant review. Bravo.
Thank you so much :)
After putting two rolls through an oly 35 trip (both episodes on my channel), I'm bitten by the film bug, and after watching your review for the 3rd time (and a few other excellent reviews), I'm sold. Now eagerly awaiting the courier to deliver my 35SP. Awesome review and channel mate. Regards Paul
Hi Review is great! I love your friendly informative style.
Awesome review, you just gained a subscriber!
YAY! Thanks Joshua!
+Old Cameras No problem man! Keep up the good work!!! Hope your having a great day, and many blessings to you!
Its strange that they did not include a depth of field scale, which annoys me so much I rarely
use the camera.
Thanks man! This was great. 👍
Well, I just bought one after I watched your video.
Nice. I hope it brings you lots of joy :)
You just casually ending the video in Czech was the most unexpected thing 😅
Again a nice review. Well done. I have no Olympus and havn't try one. But have a Contax/Kiev 4 which works very well. It well made.
In the later 1990s, I spent several years looking for a good condition, fully working 35SP. I never found one, the most common problems being defects in the meter, either fully inoperative or the spot meter switching not working. I gave up without finding one. The lens probably was the best available in a fixed lens rangefinder model at its time, however is certainly is not the best every put in a camera of this type. The 40mm 1.7 used in the later Olypus RD is better, and the 40mm 1.7 put in the Canonet QL17 GIIIS is probably still better than the Oly. The RD is fairly hard to find, but the Canon is quite commonly available..
it is top of my want list. Great video
It's a great camera, thanks.
This is an excellent and also very efficient review - all the intro you need to this superb camera in less than ten minutes. "Chapeau," as they say.
One thing though. Covering the lens doesn't turn off the meter on the SP, unfortunately. Unlike on the 35RD and DC (the rare all-auto version of the RD) and of course the lovely little 35RC, the SP's metering cell is not in the lens. It's right next to the viewfinder window you look through, behind the narrow window on the extreme right if you're looking at the front of the camera.
So to turn the meter off you have to either put the camera back into its never-ready case (which is though a beautiful thing of proper leather on a metal frame, if you can find one...) or improvise a kind of cover of your own just for that window - or, like silencing a minah bird or parrot, put the camera into the dark, either by dropping it into your camera bag or throwing a blackout hood over it...
...which is of course a huge pity : a 35SP that's not in immediate use is one of the nicest things to hang on your wall from a hook above your desk.
Even with a lens cap on though, this will drain the battery. So it's not necessarily advisable...
Great review/guide, though. Good job, Sir.
Thanks
Hi. Yes you're right and a few people pointed it out to me after making the video. And of course I learnt also when my battery did drain. I think i didn't notice because I mostly shoot fully manual.
The SP is gone now as part of my effort to vastly reduce the camera hoard and embrace minimalism. The RC though is surgically attached to me :)
Your video looked beautiful. I love Olympus from this era. My favourite camera ever was my OM-1. Talking about batteries - only today I pulled out a Yashica FX3 from the back of a cupboard (which takes two coin cells for the meter). They had never been changed and this camera was bought new in 1980! Yes the meter still worked?
PS Zuiko lenses are special, all of 'em.
in the US they sell the Wein Cell MRB625 at Adorama and it is an exact replacement for the old mercury PX625/PX13, PX675, and RM400 with the correct size and voltage. Some people say they drain too fast and you should keep them out of the camera when not in use, but I haven't tried any yet
Yes that battery is the correct replacement except it doesn't hold its charge like the Mercury ones did, so it turns out to be a very expensive option.
Old Cameras ah that's too bad, you would think with modern technology someone could make some that would be last better :(
Loved the video, were these pictures taken near kings cross?
Thank you. I had to re-watch the video to see which pictures you mean. They were mostly taken in and around Hackney Wick along the Lea River.
Best camera reviewer hands down! How much would this camera cost nowadays? I need to get me one 👌🏻
That's excessively kind of you :) It depends, the price depends on the day really. You can luck out on eBay and grab one for $10 or they can be up to $200 all depending on the seller, the condition of the camera, whether or not it's been tested, professionally cleaned, e.t.c
To me, Its all about the glass. Thats why I opted for the LC as its price point was more appealing than the SP.
Hey man, loved this review, your videos are really enjoyable to watch, are you UK based, can't place your accent! I have just received my SP, wanted one for a while, what I'd heard about the lens got stuck in my head, got myself a bargain(or so I hope) on eBay, beautiful cosmetic condition and seems to be operating soundly since replacing the battery. Bought some Kodak 400 tmax as my first roll for this camera, can't wait to start using it, fingers crossed there's no hidden problems!
You've got yourself one of the best, seriously. I really love mine.
Yes, I'm based in the UK. You can't totally get that by my accent though, I've got a kind of 'International' accent having grown up all over the place.
Thanks for watching Ian.
+Old Cameras sir how much is this worth
+Old Cameras sir how much is this worth
carlos karam LOL at "sir" :)
It all depends on the condition of the camera. I've seen mint and near-mint ones go for about £180 - £200 on eBay. I've also seen some with a few bumps here and there go for much much less, like £30 or so.
Old Cameras i have one just gifted to me like 1 hour ago and i just cried cuz i wanted a camera any camera so im happy oh and thank you your a youtuber who acually rolys to cmnts and cares thanks old cameras ill be def subbing and sharing your channel hope thats get you alot off subbs
Great video! Now please you gotta release a review about the 35 RD to accomplish a triptych of this incredible family (SP, RD & RC).
Nice video. This camera have a zone focus ring?
Thanks. It has a distance scale so you could use zone focus if you like, but it's the same focusing ring whatever technique you're using.
Great style man!!
Great review, thank you!
This is almost identical to the Canon Canonet QL17 series. But, the biggest advantage to the Olympus is the ability to meter in manual mode. The Canon only meters in full auto, which can be a bit of a pain.
Yes those cameras are always compared. Also the Petri and Mamiya offerings too.
great camera, but for me it is too big, my favorite rangefinder is the Werra 3, from Carl Zeiss Jena, made in the 50s. It has interchangeable lenses and is very small, but does not look as weird as the Rollei 35
What is that little metal tab between the spot button and the film spool?
Beautiful video. I'm hesitating between this or a yashica electro 35
Olympus g a n g
Fantastic review, Sir.
Great review, helpful stuff; thanks. :) I've been looking into the SP, RC and RD a little, because I'm interested in getting one for my girlfriend, as well as for me in future. I think the RC might be in the lead for her. We'll see. :)
The RC has the size advantage I think, without sacrificing much in terms of quality. The RD is kind of harder to find in good condition. To be honest, you can't go wrong with any of them.
Yes..she's also petite. :) Thank you for the info.
my first rangefinder camera, just love it. Buttery smooth controls razer sharp lens. but my RF patch is very fade :(
Forgot one thing the meter is always on.unless you use the camera case. The no light acts as a switch to cut power.
yep
Beautiful camera! I have the Canon QL17 GIII which is a great compact rangefinder too, I would love to aquire a working version of this camera.
Like the QL17, the price has gone up lately on eBay.
Same here. As a big Olympus (SLRs) fan I was a bit suspicious when I was given a QL17 giii. However, that soon became one of my fave street cameras. However, the 35SP has always intrigued me. Now prices have skyrocketed, but I am still looking for one here and there...
The metering cell is located next to the viewfinder and not on the lens. Putting the lens cap on doesn't switch off the meter.
yep.
Putting the lens cap on does not de-activate the metering - the metering is done via the window to the right of the viewfinder when looking from the front. The camera needs to be kept in the leather case (or in a dark place) to turn the metering off.
@Jonathan Bailey I was about to comment this.
Can you take double exposures on this camera?
the first camera i was actually hunting for but never found one for a good price :)
Odd, I had the SPn - it had a very loud Seiko shutter that was as loud as a DSLR but half the duration of the sound. Wonder if they changed the shutter between the SP and the SPn...
+Ananda Sim that's interesting. Apparently they peaked at the SP and then got progressively worse after that.
For an old camera those images look beautiful... I'm sure your skills have a lot to do with it too lol.
Omg that RIP Steve jobs bit 👌🏾
+LeeToTheVI LOL thanks man. Those images cost money like £1 a snap so it makes you sit there thinking about your bank account. It kind of motivates the art :)
After watching this video, I bought this camera on impulse hahaha. Do you have any focusing/zone focusing tips? This is a lot different than my SLRs, but I love it! Cheers!
Hi, that's great. You'll love it. Focusing is easy and accurate on this because it has a rangefinder that takes the 'guesswork' out of it. i've never used zone focusing on it, but It does have the distance scale on the top part of the lens so you can see the numbers easily. I'd say when you're at f8, set to 1m for single person portrait, 1.5m for two people head/shoulders shot, at somewhere between 3 and 5 m for everything should be in focus from 3 m to infinity.
Awesome! Thank you so much 😁
Hello, I have been enjoying your reviews for a while now and I have finally been convinced to get a 35mm film camera. Are there any you can recommend which do not need new batteries every time they run out and is able to be used like a digital camera in aperture priority? If there are any inexpensive and easy to use options I would really appreciate your advice. I am hoping to use it for street photography. Thanks.
Thanks for watching. Let me see, those are hard criteria to meet. Normally if you want aperture priority, then you need batteries to operate the light meter and shutter speed mechanism. The batteries don't usually run out quickly like in Digital because there's usually no LCD to power.
SLR: I'd check out something like a CanonT70 or a Praktica BX20.. both cheap SLRs that give you aperture priority with long battery life. The batteries are also readily available in the shops - (not obscure ones you have to order online only)
Rangefinder: Hmm.. I'll say try the Yashica Electro 35 GSN or GTN. They will give you aperture priority but you need batteries. You can use modern equivalent batteries that are relatively long lasting as well. The lens is amazing.
The only camera I can think of right now that does not need batteries but is not full-manual is the Canonet. However, this is shutter-priority, not aperture priority.
Those are the 'cheap' options. A more expensive option is the Olympus XA. It has aperture-priority and takes amazing photos. The batteries last very long.
Hope that helps.
Thank you very much. Am I right in assuming that with film cameras the batteries are non-rechargeable? Sorry about my lack of camera knowledge I think I was wrong in saying simply aperture priority, auto ISO is what I meant. I am okay with setting aperture and shutter speed but auto ISO is helpful but it is a moot point as I assume that would also require batteries to operate. Thanks again for the recommendations, they look really good and I will be most likely picking up one but before I do could I ask if there are any cameras you can recommend which are in the £150 range?
Harry Peckover OMG. £150 is a good budget for a film camera. What style of camera do you prefer DSLR or Mirrorless? The reason I ask is there are so many many many styles of film cameras. You can buy fully classic manual ones that are manual everything.. or fully electronic ones that are 1 step away from being digital.
With film, ISO is static. It's the speed of the film you buy. So each roll of film has its own ISO and you cant change it (well, there are ways called pushing and pulling), but in general you'd have to wait till you load another film for the ISO to change. When you 'set the ISO' on the film camera, you're simply telling the camera what the speed of the film you're putting in is.. so the camera's light meter can calculate the exposure correctly.
Most old film cameras that use batteries use those button cell types (hearing aid type). Those can't be recharged. However many film cameras do use AA and AAA batteries - Alkaline or Rechargeable. Of course these cameras can't charge the batteries. You'd have to use an external charger. You can get generic ones.
For £150, You can probably grab yourself an Olympus 35SP off eBay. For me I think this is the best you can do without heading for a Leica, which will set you back a LOT more :) With this camera, you can go Full Manual,
SLR style, maybe something like a Nikon F3. That's pushing the budget a bit, but you can grab that. Or maybe a Canon EOS 300 (very cheap) but will give you awesome photos, and feels like you're using a digital SLR. You can also use rechargeable batteries with that.
If you just want to take photos and never have to worry about batteries, then try the Olympus Trip 35. All you have to do is focus.
Cheers
Bawo ni Ade? This is quite the late query on my part but I'm curious as to your thoughts on this camera compared to the Canonet QL17 GIII?
Dada ni o. I would say the QL17 is nearly on par with the SP for most people. Some people even prefer the QL17, but that's subjective.
@@OldCameras word. I own the QL17, got the all black for for a great price. Finishing up my first roll soon. Looking forward to seeing what I get.
I've never shot with a rangefinder before so I'm excited. Also, recently picked up a Canon P. Would be curious as to your thoughts on that one as well.
Gonna dug mine up again. The 1.7 / 500 combination could be better (1/1000 or even 1/2000 but in that time that would be extreme)
The lens cap will not turn off the light meter.
I don’t think the markings are glow in the dark, they are just fluorescent, which means they convert ultraviolet (black light) into other colors, so they only glow under a black light.
The metering system has no switch but it isn’t affected at all by the lens cap. What you do it keep the camera in the dark or turn the ISO setting to 25 and it uses almost no power when metering darkness.
did u forget about the rd with a even faster aperture?
How could anyone forget the RD?. I did use the RD quite extensively before it found a new home. The max aperture on the RD and SP are the same - f1.7 The RD's advantage over the SP is the size.
aha ok saw that now
Nice camera!! Pretty ahead of it's time with SP option. Nice!! Oh.. I have a Canonet QL17.. The way the Canon and this camera work about draining battery without lens cap is.. simply take it off "A" mode that runs meter. Then you don't have keep cover lens risking forgetting taking it off for a picture. Been there done that before I knew this info.
:) the QL17 is awesome, and looks so cool. Very similar to the SP in many ways. I'm yet to review one, but the time is coming :)
Bullshit. The only way to shut the 35 SP meter off is to cover the meter portal on the front of the body.
hey guys...I was just looking forward to buy one but I really can't find a place to do so ...can anyone recommend a site or some of sort?
wonderful review, I got one on order, really looking forward to getting going with it after this! could you tell me the best place to get film developed thanks?
taky děkuji moc a nashledanou!
🙏🏽 😅
Hay bro, what are your alternative battery do you use? Can I use LR44? and how much battery I need for this camera? Thank you
I don't think the LR44 fits. Also there's probably a voltage issue if you find an adaptor for the LR44 to make it fit. I use the Wein EPX-625 battery. Basically anything 625 from Amazon will do.
I'll suggest the the SP is not the best of this type of camera, but it is an "also ran" when compared the Oly's own RD and the Canon QL17 G-III. My reasoning is that the SP is an earlier design, bigger, heavier and lacking some of the convenience features of the later models. The SP lens is excellent, but the 40mm 1.7 lenses in both the QL17 and the RD are its equal or better, being probably the two best lenses ever put in cameras of this type. Between the RD and the QL17, I personally prefer the Canon because it is readily available and although rising in price, is still less expensive to acquire than the RD (if found). All three cameras use the mercury 1/35 volt cell, so some workaround is required on all. You can "cap" the QL17 and RD to reduce battery flow, and you can switch them off the "auto aperature setting to actual turn off the meter. The SP never turns off the meter, but it meters in non-auto and well and auto, which the others do not. The SP spot meter function is a nice feature, but 95% of the users will never use it, and in the 3 -4 SPs I've handled over the last 20 years, it's been defective. [Note re QL!7 and RD not metering in manual: you meter in auto normally, and if you want to modify the exposure from "auto" setting as read in viewfinder, you just reset the aperature to your preferred aperature-shutter combination. Or, you decide your exposure preference, then move the viewfinder in "auto" to get whatever you want, then trap that exposure with pressure on the shutter release, reframe composure and shoot.]
Thanks Randall for all the great info. I also used the RD for a while and loved so much. I sold it because it has a reputation to gum up and die after a while. Apparently it is inevitable. Without that one issue, I would agree that it beats the SP.
Minolta Hi-Matic 7sII........
Konica Auto S3.......
there are many... each with the pros and cons.
I'll shoot that Konica Auto S3 one day. I've heard a lot of good things.
Nicolas Parsons: Peter Fenn on the Hammond organ: , & " Here are Jennifer & Canasta to congratulate you."
Just bought one. so if it is not TTL metering why would a lens cap prevent the meter from working??
It was an error in the video. You're right, the camera has to be put in it's leather case to stop the battery from draining. I really should overlay some text on the video to correct that. sorry.
So which do you prefer, the RC or SP?
Personally, the RC.
hi do you push the iso to get a cirrect exposure? i recently got 35sp and it has a 625 battery..
correct*
I usually over-expose by 1 stop, but I think negative film is fine with a little error - especially towards overexposure.
The problem its too big and focal length is not 35mm.I was thinking put yashica 35cc 's lens at this camera is perfect but it seems not so possible lol
Does your opinion of this camera still hold true?
Yes and no :)
Yes; I still think when it came out, it kicked everything else' behind.
No; it needs the leather case to preserve battery life (or you have to take the battery out). Also I'm an Olympus Fanboy :) so take that with a grain of salt.
What about the RC hello?
nice. now i want that. :P
:)
For me I place a piece of Black paper tape or Election tape over the meter window, so now I have a on/off switch..... Try it...
I love the corny lounge organ music :)
Oooh, tough call. Yashica Electro 35, Canonet QL17, Konica Auto S2 and Rollei 35 are contenders too. I agree that it's better than Leica, though. That ridiculous loading on the Leica, all because of their pride. The one thing I would change though is to make the lens 35mm, not 42. It's true that 42 looks just like what we see with our eyes, but it is often not enough to fit everything into the frame.
Spot metering? Woo, that's a heavy hit. NO ONE else could do that, back in those days. ..and the choice between M, P, S and A? Also, no one else could do it. It's just that 42mm is totally useless for landscapes and architcture in cities. (where there's no room to back up)
Olympus XA!
7 elements??? That's more than my Xenotar on my Rolleiflex....
:)
Why all the photos b&w is it because the film or what?
Yes it’s black and white film
What about Leica,canon 7s,Retina 3c😛
*Quality*
Just the fact that you use the word 'fanboy' says it all.
Or is it the Canonet? ;-)
You'll start a war. :)
Would you say the Olympus 35 SP is better, (sharper), than the Canonet QL17 Glll?
I would say so. This lens has better aesthetic. Bigger but easier to hold as well.
@@danieldijo Thank you!
"This is no doubt the best 35mm Rangefinder ever made"...There are a lot of doubts about your declaration. Leica M3 is the best rangefinder camera ever made.
Big, heavy, expensive, no shooting info in finder, no meter, kludgy film loading, focal plane shutter...
Obviously it has build quality going for it.
Děkuji moc a nashledanou.? Speaking czech.?
Ano 🤓
@@OldCameras Me too. Native from Prague 😎😂 Love Olympus, have OM-2n and Trip 35
nice
Thanks.
Wrong, the exposure meter is not in the lens, it's in the viewfinder. Using a lens cap has no effect on it!
But why the hell are you speaking spanish and czech?!?! btw great czech accent
+ondra burysek 😂 dekuji moc. I love languages
The Lens have seven elemesnts in FOUR groups !
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olympus_35SP
um.... lol did you forget? LEICA?????? or SHARPHEST lens......... lol contax carl zeiss 45mm f2 ? hmmmmm
- I had to stop this interesting video due to that music in the background.
Ut would have been so much better without music, that way I could have listen to you instead.
I will try to use texting and watch it without sound.
Sorry. I've learn't a lot about making videos since this one. I was relatively new and having fun :)
Only 500th of a sec?
Because of the mechanical leaf shutter.
Pretty typical
brilliant review. [' Ō°]
Thanks :)
Best Rangefinder Ever Made? Not by a long shot.
4:06 embarrassing
lol
Yo tengo una de esas cámaras y vieran que fotos de puta madre consigo 😜📸📸🗻⛲📷📷🌄🏰🌆🥂🥚🥚
😂Seguro que si.
Es una cámara increíble :)