Before we begin, let’s quickly get acquainted with the difference between analogue and digital photography. In recent years, analogue, AKA film cameras, have staggered in popularity due to their grainy and dreamy effects. With these cameras, you buy film, wind it up inside your camera, and you’re good to go. You’ll need to get the film developed and scanned afterwards to have these photos on a digital device. Digital cameras, on the other hand, are more up-to-date with the times. They offer more flexibility and dependability and are also making a massive comeback in the photography sphere. What you go for ultimately depends on preference.
We’ve compiled a list of six cameras, three digital and three analogue, with ranging complexity levels and features. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with some photography experience, you’ll find something that works for you. Look no further than this list right here!
Best digital cameras for travel
In this section, we will uncover comprehensive descriptions of the finest digital cameras available, offering valuable insights to assist in selecting the perfect camera for travel adventures.
1. Ricoh GR IIIx
This camera is a lot of photographers’ favourite for travelling, and it’s not hard to see why. The Ricoh GR IIIx is widely known to be the best compact travel camera and performs exceptionally well in street photography due to its quick response time. It has incredible power in its tiny body, smaller than an iPhone, but produces sharp and stunning images; it won’t let you down, shot after shot.
This isn’t the cheapest camera by any means, but in terms of cameras you can put in your pocket, there’s nothing this good. Although the GR IIIx is simple in nature, the custom shooting modes are helpful for those who put in the effort to create unique camera settings for specific outcomes. So if you’re looking for something super compact that takes fantastic pictures, this is an excellent choice.
2. Panasonic Lumix GX1
This mirrorless point-and-shoot covers virtually all bases. It boasts numerous physical controls, an efficient resolution, intuitive touch-screen controls; it’s small, portable, and exceptionally well-built. It is also a very adaptable and flexible camera that can be combined with a wide range of high-quality lenses and accessories. It’s super lightweight and feels fantastic in hand; great if you want to carry something that’s not heavy but takes a good shot.
The GX1 was released about a decade ago, so you won’t be able to buy these brand-new. That doesn’t make it any less good at its job, and it’s still a much-loved camera among photographers today, and it’s one of the nicest cameras for travel. Due to this, you’ll be pleased to discover the affordability of this bit of kit, and you’ll probably have the most luck searching eBay.
3. FujiFilm X-S10
FujiFilm cameras are great if you’re looking for a digital camera with the feel of a film camera. Of course, FujiFilm has been an enormous film manufacturer for decades, and they’re loved for their beautiful colours and soft grain. FujiFilm pack their digital cameras with filters replicating some of their most renowned film stock, such as Provia, Velvia, and Acros. You can also adjust the grain size and strength or skip it altogether. This camera gives you a lot of control over your images, and of course, you can see your photos instantly, which you can’t do with analogue; it’s a great digital camera for travel.
The interface is easy to navigate and more straightforward than big, scary DSLR cameras, making them suitable for beginners looking to commit to a high-tech mirrorless camera. There is a brand new version of this specific camera, the FujiFilm X-S20. However, the X-S10 is just as great and cheaper. The X-S20 has a few performance upgrades and one extra film simulation filter.
Image by Greta Konovalova
Best analogue cameras for travel
In this section, we’ll get into descriptions of the best analogue cameras available, paired with valuable insights to help in choosing the perfect camera for your travels.
1. Olympus AF-10
Disposable cameras are perfect for travelling and capturing intimate moments with friends. But the problem with disposable cameras is precisely that; they’re disposable. By investing in a point-and-shoot camera, you can take pictures over and over again by simply replacing the film.
Point-and-shoots are ideal for beginners and those seeking a more candid approach to photography. The Olympus AF-10 is a lovely versatile camera with a flash and a self-timer, perfect for any occasion. This camera is super simple to use. There are no adjustments you have to fiddle with; you just press the trigger and take the photo. Look no further if you want something handy that fits your pocket. A point-and-shoot is the best compact camera for travel.
2. Nikon One Touch
The name “One Touch” is no joke; this camera is that simple to use. The reason it’s a favourite for travelling is because of its impressive ability to focus, especially in landscape photography, something you wouldn’t expect from a film camera in this league. It’s ideal for beginners and those who prefer a straightforward approach to photography. It also comes with a built-in flash that’s handy for low-light situations.
This camera’s popularity is a testament to both its intuitive layout and the excellent pictures it is still capable of creating decades after it was initially launched. Long story short, if you’re looking for a great travel and landscape camera, the Nikon One Touch is precisely as capable as you need it to be.
3. Canon A1
The Canon A1 is a 35mm SLR camera with which you can take gorgeous pictures. You’ll have to make choices with this camera, such as choosing a film stock that compliments your subject and working with the manual features to create the image you want. If you understand aperture, shutter speed and ISO, you’re ready to take pictures.
This is a camera you can take on any occasion and make your photos look like art. It’s versatile and can be used for landscapes, street photography, and portraits. It’s an excellent investment. You should be aware that buying older cameras comes with the risk of them not functioning correctly. But although film cameras are vintage, you can use them in combination with new technology to elevate their performance, such as light metres and remote triggers.
