The 11 Best Point and Shoot Film Cameras Ever Made

Field magazine

Canon Sure Shot WP-1

Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate

Year of Release: 1994

Pros: Waterproof, super simple, panorama mode, inexpensive

Cons: Limited functionality, automatic flash

First of all, to clear up any confusion with the name. The Sure Shot WP-1 is also known as the A-1, Prima AS-1, or my personal favorite: the Autoboy D5. Confusing, I know.

When it comes to waterproof 35mm cameras, beyond the legendary Nikonos V there isn’t much in the lineup to choose from, especially in point and shoot form. At the time of its release, the WP-1 was designed to compete with other underwater 35mm cameras like the Minolta Weathermatic.

The WP-1 is simple—really simple, and doesn’t have features such as exposure compensation, ISO settings, etc. There are essentially four different shooting modes on the dial; auto, macro, forced flash, and flash off modes.

The flash is automatic but can be turned off, there’s a date and time LCD display, and there’s a loophole to attach a lanyard or strap to. There is an option to shoot panoramas as well!

Although it is waterproof (up to 5m) it works as any point and shoot would above the water line! And it’s a fun one at that. Just don’t expect this to produce the same visual results as some of the other point and shoots.

Lens: 32mm

Aperture: f/3.5

Shutter: 1/60th to 1/250th

Average Price on eBay (2024): $150
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a point and shoot film camera?

A point-and-shoot film camera is a compact and simple-to-use camera designed for casual photographers. Some point and shoots do feature expert level functionality, premium materials, and even legendary glass, but in general, a typical point and shoot film camera has automatic settings for exposure and focus, designed to allow users to point the camera at a subject and take photos in an instant without needing to adjust many settings manually.

What is the difference between a point and shoot camera and an SLR camera?

The main differences between point and shoot cameras and SLRs are size and portability and lens and viewfinder system. SLR cameras (Single-Lens Reflex) feature an internal mirror that reflects the image the lens “sees” into the viewfinder for the user. Meaning, when you look into the viewfinder of an SLR (or DSLR) camera, you’re actually seeing through the lens.

On the other hand, point and shoot cameras are rangefinders, meaning they do not have an internal mirror but instead a mechanical series of compact lenses and mirrors that approximates what the lens is seeing. Because of this, rangefinders are smaller, quieter, and more compact, but the user doesn’t see the same depth of field perception as with an SLR, and accurate framing can be more difficult too.

What is the most expensive point and shoot camera?

The Contax T2 is widely considered the most expensive point and shoot camera. Once found on thrift shop shelves, it’s not uncommon to see a decent condition Contax T2 sell for well north of $1,000. Limited edition T2s can sell for double that. See the T2 above in our list for the full rundown on this iconic camera.

Source: https://fieldmag.herokuapp.com/articles/best-point-and-shoot-film-cameras