Dearest readers,
I cannot believe I have finally bought my first (with my own adult money) film camera. Well my actual first was a medium film camera, and a famous one - the Instax Mini 8. My sister presented me as SPM gift, if I am not mistaken. But nonetheless, it was a gift!
So I have been an avid fan of a film camera. Most probably because I grew up with my dad forever with his bulky film camera (fun fact: it was THAT bulky almost everyone thought it was a cam recorder lol). Dad took photos EVERYWHERE and EVERY TIME. I always get secondhand (or firsthand) embarrassment because he's just not ashamed at all? My goodness. Storytime! I remember I was attending my 'Hari Anugerah Kecemerlangan' for my PMR results at my former public school, and the VIP was the then Menteri Besar Tokmat. And if you follow some politics, he is indeed a favourable politician as compared to the previous Mohd Isa. Anyways.... partly because of this perseverance he has shown me that has made me admired film photos that it actually grew in me without me realising.
And now, I have access to adult money. I worked my ass off, I'd like to spend on some things I would treasure. After consulting an industry film photographer for a beginner camera that is in the range of RM500 and below, he suggested me to find for "Canon Autoboy 2". So the search begins... I looked high and low on the internet - Carousell, eBay, amazon. Well, you name it. Only a few listings within my budget because apparently a lot of people are in pursuit of it. Probably because a few of K-Pop idols have been seen taking pictures/selfies with it. I was put off by the first and second time I was looking for it. I said to myself, let's sleep on it and see how my interest in a few days.
Following 6 weeks later, I gave it a try again and poom a listing on a Carousell -- a) the seller was trustable with many recent reviews; b) the price listed was within my budget - RM429 for the camera, original cover, 2 AA batteries and an expired Fujifilm Superia 200 for test; c) the description and pictures were so convincing. safe to say the seller knows his shit haha. I instantly messaged the seller and offered RM400 fast payment! And boom, within 5 mins, I put a hole in my pocket and OWN MY FIRST FILM CAMERA! The seller was also accommodative and generous with his tips for beginners. Next-day delivery and one-day shipment. Legit 11/10 buying experience. Please follow them on Instagram and Carousell. They go by the name @kamerakompak
THE CAMERA
- Canon AF35M II or Autoboy 2 Quartz Date (Japan edition) or Sure Shot (America edition)
- 35mm film camera
- First released in 1979 - the first automatic film camera! For a 42 years old camera, it is indeed impressive since like really everything is automated except for the flash. It has a button for that
- Some say it's bulky but I wouldn't regard it that way
- Plastic material and only weights 300m. My wrist wont hurt.
I spent a few days exploring and understanding its functionality via readings and Youtube reviews. Also I came across old manuals from reddit available here. Can't believe it this guy/business entity gathered the whole ancient manuals hahaha. But really recommended to read through this!
So I have inserted the roll that was included in the mail. 36 exposures and I have used up about 6 shots. Ah! Excited to get it developed and processed! Too bad it's still full movement control order (MCO) now. Hopeful that it does not continue for I am absolutely exhausted of indoor isolations at home. Ceh drama!
Till then, I will share the results once it's done. Any recommendation to where I can develop the rolls? Thanks
Sincerely,
Kemboja
