Best 35mm Film Cameras
| Last Updated: December 31, 2020
Disposable cameras haven’t lost their charm, despite the availability of modern digital and film cameras. They have a vintage edge and convenience that makes them perfect for weddings, engagement parties, and birthdays.
However, disposable doesn’t have to mean cheap and nasty. The best disposable cameras are affordable but deliver high-quality photos of your priceless memories.
The overall best disposable camera is the Kodak Funsaver One Time Use Film Camera. It is incredibly affordable and high quality, with excellent performance both inside and outside. It comes with 27 exposures and is a great accessory for any social gathering.
In this guide, we examine the pros and cons of the best disposable cameras on the market. We help you decide how to find the best option for you and how you can take the best quality photos.
So, let’s get started!
5 Best Disposable Cameras in 2021
- Winner: Kodak Funsaver One Time Use Film Camera
- Runner-Up: Fujifilm QuickSnap Flash 400 Disposable Camera
- Fujifilm Disposable QuickSnap Waterproof Camera
- Kodak SUC Daylight Disposable Analog Camera
- Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera
Best Overall: Kodak Funsaver One Time Use Film Camera
- Sensor: Real-image with flash
- Lens: 35mm
- Weight: 8.8 ounces (249g)
- ISO: 800
- Exposures: 27
What Makes This Disposable Camera Our Top Pick?
The Kodak Funsaver One Time Use Film Camera is the overall best quality disposable camera. It is affordable but extremely diverse, with a relatively high ISO of 800. This brightness level allows it to capture detailed photos in high and low light situations.
Despite its simple lens, the Kodak Funsaver produces detailed and colorful photos. It has the standard 27 exposures and is a popular option at special events like weddings or milestone birthdays.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Reviewers love the nostalgic quality of this camera. They argue that taking photos with actual film makes capturing the moment more memorable than with a digital camera or smartphone. Users also like how easy it is to use this disposable camera.
However, some users complain that the overall photos are dark. We recommend using the flash function in any kind of lowlight shooting to avoid this problem. Because you can’t review the images after taking them, you may want to experiment before special events.
Features and Considerations
One of the strongest features of this camera is its flash function. It can add extra brightness to photos during nighttime, overcast weather, or in the shadows. You just need to hold down the flash button on the camera until it turns red and then take the photo.
We also like that it has manual control. You move the film between shots and use the viewfinder to frame your shots. Therefore, it allows you extra control over your photos and your desired aesthetic.
If you’re looking for an affordable but high-quality disposable camera, we recommend the Kodak Funsaver. You don’t need to be an experienced photographer to get colorful and detailed shots with this model.
Runner-Up: Fujifilm QuickSnap Flash 400 Disposable Camera
- Sensor: Inverted lens finder with flash
- Lens: 35mm
- Weight: 7.4 ounces (210g)
- ISO: 400
- Exposures: 27
What Makes This Disposable Camera Our Runner-Up Option?
The Fujifilm Quicksnap Flash 400 is the runner-up and the best disposable camera for weddings. Fujifilm is famous for its quality. This camera is no different, using premium X-TRA 400 film that lends a vintage quality to the photos.
This camera is suitable for both indoors and outdoors. It has an ISO of 400 and can bring out the color and detail in various lighting situations. This design is ideal for shooting outdoor ceremonies and indoor receptions with the same level of quality.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Users like the overall aesthetics of the photos. They appreciate the vintage look and enjoy how easy it is to use the camera. Many reviewers use them as part of wedding gifts for the new couple, allowing guests to capture the memories of the evening.
However, some reviewers dislike the overall cost of developing the photos. When choosing a disposable camera, you should be mindful that developing the film is a lot more costly than using a digital camera.
Features and Considerations
The QuickSnap Flash features an on-demand flash setting. If you want to increase the lighting in a dark situation, you can turn on the flash feature. However, it is easy to deactivate the setting if you change your mind. Many other disposable cameras don’t allow you to do this.
This flash can cover up to ten feet (3m) and combines with sharp detail to deliver realistic but artistic photos. The camera has 27 exposures, which is standard for a disposable model at this price range.
Overall, we recommend the Fujifilm QuickSnap Flash for any kind of special event. It is more expensive than using a digital camera. Still, it allows you to capture a unique type of photo with an ethereal quality.
Alternative: Fujifilm Disposable QuickSnap Waterproof Camera
- Sensor: Inverted lens finder
- Lens: 35mm
- Weight: 14 ounces (397g)
- ISO: 800
- Exposures: 27
What Makes This Disposable Camera a Good Choice?
The Fujifilm Disposable QuickSnap Waterproof is the best waterproof disposable camera. It can withstand depths of up to 35 feet (10.7m) without ruining the camera or affecting the photo quality.
If you are wanting to take photos while diving or snorkeling, it could be the right choice. You can also use it during rainy or snowy weather without worrying about damaging your expensive equipment.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Users love the quality of the photos. They also appreciate that the camera is completely waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about using a more expensive model and potentially ruining it.
However, it doesn’t have a flash function. Therefore, it isn’t a great option for lowlight conditions. It has an ISO of 800, but you may lose some detail and picture quality when photographing in dim lighting.
Users also lament the lack of a wrist strap. The addition of a cord would make it easier to swim and take photos without worrying about dropping the camera.
Features and Considerations
It has an oversized shutter button, so you can use it while doing other activities. This design makes it ideal for shooting in bad weather conditions, while in the snow, or in the water. All you need to do is point and shoot for decent, colorful pictures.
Overall, the Fujifilm QuickSnap Waterproof Camera is a reliable and user-friendly option for underwater photography. It is durable enough to withstand full submersion or poor weather conditions, allowing you to capture bright and colorful photos.
Alternative: Kodak SUC Daylight Disposable Analog Camera
- Sensor: Inverted lens finder
- Lens: 32.8mm
- Weight: 2.8 ounces (79g)
- ISO: 800
- Exposures: 39
What Makes Disposable Camera a Great Option?
The Kodak SUC Daylight is the best disposable camera for travel. It handles well in all daylight conditions outside. The ISO of 800 allows for bright photos in mid-level lighting, and it emphasizes the color of all subjects.
This disposable camera is lightweight and incredibly easy to carry and use. You can pop it inside your daypack or handbag to grab perfect shots of landscapes, architecture, and people. Because you have a limited number of exposures, you can focus on the pictures that really matter.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Reviewers like the user-friendliness and fun operation of the camera. They also enjoy that the photos are vibrant, colorful, and remarkably effective with blue subjects. Overall, the images are vintage-style but highly detailed.
However, the lack of a flash function is limiting. If you try to photograph dark subjects, they may not come out properly. Therefore, it would be a waste of film and expensive development.
Features and Considerations
You should be aware that the camera isn’t suitable for indoor photography. It handles outdoor images well, but the lighting isn’t correct inside. Therefore, it isn’t a good option for indoor functions or parties.
It is an excellent option if you want to take multiple photos. It features 39 exposures, which is higher than the average disposable camera. Therefore, it could be an excellent choice for longer day trips or memorable vacations.
If you’re looking for a lightweight and simple disposable camera for outdoor photography, you should consider the Kodak SUC Daylight Analog Camera. It is excellent value for money and can produce decent photos with vintage details.
Alternative: Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera
- Sensor: Inverted lens finder with flash
- Lens: 31mm
- Weight: 2.4 ounces (68g)
- ISO: 400
- Exposures: Reloadable
What Makes This Disposable Camera Special?
The Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera is the best disposable camera for a vintage look. Unlike other disposable cameras, it is reloadable. Therefore, you can add extra rolls of film as you go and use it in the long term. This feature justifies the higher price.
It includes color filters over the flash, which allow you to add a tint to your photos. Adding a purple, blue, or yellow hue to your pictures lets you adjust the mood and artistic expression of your photography.
Along with the flash, it can capture photos in darker situations inside or outside. If you’re looking for a disposable camera for events like parties or weddings, this could be a viable option.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Users like the different color effects that you can add to the photos. They enjoy the retro vibe of these shades and how they put unique effects on the pictures. Reviewers also like that you can continually add new rolls of film and get multiple uses.
However, some reviewers complain that the camera is breakable. When reloading the film, you have to be extra careful not to damage the unit. Therefore, it may not be a suitable option for children or teenagers.
Features and Considerations
The Lomography camera includes Color Negative 400 film. This particular film recreates a vintage aesthetic and draws out the detail of skin. For this reason, it’s incredibly effective for portrait shots or with human subjects.
However, you can also load the camera with any 35mm film. If you prefer a different brand, you can pop it inside the Lomography camera and use it like normal.
Overall, if you’re looking for a disposable camera that is long-lasting and recreates vintage scenes, you should consider the Lomography option.
What to Look for in a Disposable Camera
ISO
ISO refers to the brightness of your photos . A higher ISO setting makes brighter photos and vice versa. High ISO is better for shooting in darker environments. Still, it can make the images grainier and reduce the overall quality.
In disposable cameras, you can usually get an ISO of 400 or 800. The latter reproduces photos that have twice the level of brightness as the former. Therefore, these cameras are more suitable for night photography.
If you plan to shoot in good lighting conditions during the day, then an ISO level of 400 is more suitable. This lower setting can maintain the quality of the photos in brighter lighting.
Exposures
The number of exposures refers to how many photos you can take with a disposable camera. Most use just one roll of film, but some other models are reloadable with extra film. The standard number of exposures is 27. You can also find cameras that have 39 or more.
You should consider the intended use of your cameras when evaluating the number of exposures. If you want to shoot a long event like a wedding or a vacation, you will probably need multiple disposable cameras.
Weight
Disposable cameras are attractive because they are simple and easy to use. Ideally, you want a lightweight model to take in your backpack or pass around a party. Small and light cameras are the way to go.
Disposable Camera FAQ
Do Disposable Cameras Take Good Pictures?
Because disposable cameras are inexpensive, you may make the mistake of thinking that you will get low-quality photos. However, you can take surprisingly decent pictures with a good disposable camera.
There are just a few tips you can follow:
- Use good lighting: Many disposable cameras include a flash function so you can take photos in low light situations. During the daytime, you should try to get the best possible lighting. Try shooting with the sun behind you or take pictures during the golden hour .
- Play around with angles: All your photos will look similar if you take them from your eye level. By playing around with different heights and angles, you can bring out the best of your subject.
- Choose colorful subjects: Many disposable cameras use film that exaggerates the color effects of subjects. They may also include color filters on the lenses. Choosing colorful subjects can bring further exciting detail to your photography.
- Use different mediums: If you want to play around with multidimensionality, you can shoot subjects through glass or water. However, make sure you disable the flash first. Otherwise, the bright glare can ruin the photo.
- Use old film: Using old film or a vintage disposable camera allows you to achieve an extra-vintage photography aesthetic. When the film is close to or past its expiry date, it has a different quality. Because of the graininess and undersaturation, the film creates a stunning vintage effect.
- Double the exposure: There are two ways to double exposure in a disposable camera. Either you can hit the device so that it overlaps slightly, or you can partially wind between shots. In either case, double exposure makes two photos into one, which adds an element of artistic surrealism.
- Adjust the lens and shutter speed: If you choose a disposable camera that you can easily take apart, you can adjust the settings. If you play around with the shutter and lens, you can change their speeds. By doing so, you can affect the brightness of your photos.
- Use heat: Lens flares can be beautiful if you use them intentionally. To achieve one, you can keep your disposable camera in a warm environment for several weeks or months. Make sure that it is hot enough to affect the film without melting the plastic.
- Use a magnifying glass: Disposable cameras don’t have a zoom feature, but you can achieve a manual closeup with a magnifying glass. This camera technique is beneficial when you want to draw attention to the small details of an object.
- Use two cameras simultaneously: If you are looking for a 3D photography effect, you can use two cameras simultaneously. By lining up their lenses and taping them together, you can get further detail out of your pictures.
- Make a flash filter: Some disposable cameras already include color filters. If not, you can make one easily by putting colored cellophane over the flash or camera lens. This technique is handy if you want to create specific mood effects.
- Use a fisheye lens: Fisheye lens is a common feature in many smartphones. However, you can also achieve one with a disposable camera. You can tape the lens directly onto the front of the camera and play around with different landscape shots.
How Long Do Disposable Cameras Last?
Most people use all the film in a disposable camera quickly because it has a limited number of shots. However, you may have found an old camera in a secondhand store or the back of your cupboard. The life of the camera depends on the film.
If the camera comes with a box, it usually includes a best-before date. This timeline shows you how long the film will be in perfect condition. However, you can extend this date by keeping the film in a cold location and away from the sun.
If you live in a hot climate or leave the camera in a sunny place, the film will disintegrate faster. It may not last as long as advertised.
The batteries also affect how long a disposable camera lasts. They can rust over time, especially in hot or humid climates. If you want to store your disposable camera for longer, you should remove the batteries first.
Does Undeveloped Film Go Bad?
Undeveloped disposable camera film will deteriorate in quality over time. It goes bad faster in hot temperatures, so you can slow down the process by keeping the film cool. The best option is always to develop your film as quickly as possible.
The undeveloped film goes bad because of the chemicals that control color. Film contains multiple dyes and color masks, as well as different layers of silver halides. Each layer disintegrates at a different rate, affecting the overall color.
Generally, film becomes more magenta as it goes bad. The longer that you wait to develop the film, the more it affects the color. You can adjust the tones with post-production tools like Photoshop, or you can try to keep the film in good condition.
If you think you won’t develop your film immediately, you should keep it in a cold place. Stay away from sunlight or other warm parts of your house. You can even put the film in your refrigerator to maintain its quality longer.
Make sure to keep your film in darkness as well. Otherwise, the light can ruin your photos, and you won’t be able to fix it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the overall best disposable camera is the Kodak Funsaver One Time Use Film Camera . It is affordable but high-quality, allowing you to capture memories in all lighting conditions and situations.
Disposable cameras are a fun addition to special events like weddings or parties. They allow you to capture vintage-style memories, and they are easy to use. The cameras are also lightweight and affordable, making them excellent value for money.
When looking for a disposable camera, pay attention to the ISO, lens size, number of exposures, and weight. Each characteristic affects disposable camera quality or ease of use.
Overall, you can’t really go wrong when it comes to disposable cameras. Grab the one you like and play around with different techniques. You might be surprised by the quality of the photos you can take!
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