Year of Introduction: 1967
Film Format: 35mm
Lens: Olympus D.Zuiko 40mm f/2.8 lens
Gimmick: No battery but Selenium Cell to power exposure meter
The Olympus Trip 35 is a legendary compact film camera that was first introduced in 1967. It quickly became a popular choice among photographers for its simplicity, reliability, and outstanding image quality. Designed as a point-and-shoot camera, the Trip 35 was renowned for its ease of use and excellent performance, making it accessible to both beginner and experienced photographers alike.
The Olympus Trip 35 featured a fixed Olympus D.Zuiko 40mm f/2.8 lens, which was highly regarded for its sharpness and versatility. The lens delivered superb image quality with excellent contrast and vibrant colors. The camera incorporated a unique exposure system that employed a selenium meter, allowing for automatic exposure control without the need for batteries. This feature made the Trip 35 incredibly convenient and reliable for everyday shooting.
With its compact size and lightweight design, the Trip 35 was a perfect companion for travel and street photography. Its zone focusing system, which allowed users to preselect the focus distance, facilitated quick and intuitive shooting. The camera also included a manual aperture control, giving photographers some creative control over depth of field.
The Olympus Trip 35 is a cherished addition to my camera collection due to its iconic status and excellent image quality. Its vintage aesthetic and classic design evoke a sense of nostalgia for the golden era of film photography. The camera’s reliable automatic exposure system and exceptional lens performance make it a joy to shoot with, producing beautiful, timeless images. Owning the Olympus Trip 35 allows me to experience the charm of analog photography and appreciate the craftsmanship and ingenuity of a camera that has stood the test of time.