momo Talks | For Those Wanting to Start with Film Cameras | KODAK EKTAR H35N | Knowledge #237

The KODAK EKTAR H35N is a half-frame film camera by Kodak. While a standard 35mm film camera takes one photo per frame, a half-frame camera splits one frame into two, allowing you to take twice as many photos with one roll of film.

I've been involved with photography for a long time, but I started using film cameras seriously due to the influence of a close friend. He was incredibly skilled at photography and always captured landscapes and everyday moments with a film camera. His photos had a unique warmth that digital couldn't express, and I gradually became drawn into the world he captured.

However, he is no longer in this world. That's why I want to continue using film cameras for him. I believe that experiencing and recording the world he saw through the viewfinder is one way to cherish his memory.

A dear friend gifted me the KODAK EKTAR H35N for my birthday. They chose the metallic pink model for me. When I first held it, I fell in love with its cute and retro vibe at first sight. Its compact size and nostalgic design are irresistibly appealing.

The friend who gave it to me knew how much I valued shooting on film and said, 'You can easily carry this around and take lots of photos.' True to their words, this camera has seamlessly integrated into my daily life, accompanying me wherever I go.

The biggest feature of this camera is that it's a half-frame camera. While a standard 35mm film camera takes one photo per frame, a half-frame camera splits one frame into two. This means you can take twice as many photos with one roll of film.

With the rising costs of film and development, this camera is a blessing for film users. Moreover, you can arrange two frames side by side to create a single work, which is a unique fun aspect of half-frame cameras that digital cameras can't easily replicate.

Additionally, it's priced just over 10,000 yen, making it affordable. It's perfect as a first camera for those starting with film. Its incredibly light weight of 110g is also appealing, allowing you to carry it in your pocket and never miss a shutter opportunity.

Furthermore, the built-in star filter function is another feature of this camera. A star filter is a filter that spreads light into a cross shape, adding a sparkling effect. With this camera, you can easily turn it on and off by switching, allowing you to enjoy photo expression casually.

Some might feel that film cameras are somewhat high-barrier. Unlike digital cameras, you can't check the photos immediately, and development costs are involved. However, the 'waiting time' and 'one-shot tension' are the real charms of film.

The KODAK EKTAR H35N is the perfect camera to step into the world of film. It's easy to operate and wallet-friendly. Carry it around casually and snap photos as you wish. The photos you accumulate will surely have a different kind of charm compared to digital.

If anyone feels 'I want to start with film, but I'm a bit anxious,' I hope they'll pick up this camera. Just as I was captivated by the world of film, I'm sure you'll find a new way to enjoy photography.