My Current Top Ten Cameras
It is tricky to make a list of your favourite cameras, like making a list of your favourite songs. The list depends on a number of factors.
- The camera I am using right now. The one I used last is often high on my list.
- The cameras I have tried in the past. It can’t be in the top ten if I haven’t tried it.
- The condition of the example I have tried. Of course, if I have only tried a crap example it will be low on my list no matter what other people might think of it.
So all that aside, here is my current top ten.
- Pentax ESII – I absolutely love my example of this camera. It looks like it has been through a lot and seen a lot. Mine has great patina, quite brassy. It works with or without a battery. And best of all, I fixed it 🙂
- Zenit 11 – This camera is a tank and doesn’t need batteries. It can be used as a weapon in emergencies. It is incredibly cheap and reliable. They just keep going.
- Canon IV SB2 – This was the first camera that I had CLAd. I had to sacrifice a number of other cameras to pay for it, but it was worth it.
- Chinon CE-4 (or CE-5)- This choice is based on looks and value. I made mine into a Spiderman camera and it is unique-ish. The Chinons accept Pentax K-Mount lenses, but are relatively very cheap.
- Contax 137 MA – I love this camera, my stamp version especially. It looks great, handles well, is quite light, and has great lenses. It has dropped a place under the CE-4 as that is better value for money.
- Leica M3 – This should be number one, but as I don’t actually own it and can’t try it again I was reluctant to place it in the top spot. This is the only camera on the list I don’t currently own. I don’t need to tell you why it is a great camera, just research it.
- Fed 2 – This was one of the first cameras I tried after returning to film. It made me realize that film has a quality and look that digital just can’t capture. Plus, the photos I took using it are very meaningful to me. This choice is due to emotions rather than functionality.
- Olympus OM4 – None of the other SLRs I have tried has the spot metering function like this camera.
- Kiev 88 – I have found myself using this camera more and more. It is my go to camera for medium format, despite the weight. As I get more familiar with it my love for it grows.
- Yashica FX-D Quartz – I love my example of this camera. I love the effort and story behind its acquisition. The fact I can attach my Contax lenses makes it even more special.
This list is subject to change as I try more cameras.
