The Olympus XA is a film camera that came out in the 1980's. It is an aperture priority, full frame rangefinder and it is one of the smallest full frame cameras I've ever used.
Lens: F. Zuiko 35mm f/2.8 internally focused lens
Exposure: Aperture priority mode ISO: 25 to 800 Shutter: Automatic electronic analog, 1/500 - 10 seconds Aperture: f/2.8 - f/22, two-bladed manual Focus: Rangefinder Power: Two S76 cells Weight: 7.800 oz (221.15g) with batteries Size: 2.567" x 4.123" x 1.572" HWD |
I bought this camera when I decided to live without a phone, I knew I needed a small camera to take with me everyday. As soon as I held it, I knew it was the camera I had always been looking for. It was simplicity in my hands.
It's light, fast and easy to use, there is no thinking or fiddling. You just shoot what you see. The Olympus XA works in aperture priority mode and once you slide it open, it's ready to shoot. This was the magic soul-capturer I had heard of. It was designed by Yoshihisha Maitani, known for the design of the Olympus Pen and OM–1 cameras. ”I designed the XA from the film out instead of from the camera in” he says about his design. It may be covered in plastic but don't judge it by it's cover. The photos that came out of the XA were even better than my expectations.
This is my everyday camera, I use it mostly for shooting streetphotography and life around me. I carry it in my pocket or in my hand. I like to be discret when I'm shooting street photography, and I felt that this little camera allowed me to get closer to people without them noticing. The shutter noise is almost silent and made me feel more confident in getting close to people. But even when they noticed, they smiled most of the time because of how small my camera was. It never felt obstrusive for anyone. |
It feels like it was designed for streetphotography, to always be ready to shoot. By selecting the aperture, your camera is always ready if you are aware of the light. And when looking down on your camera, you can easily zone-focus and capture the steets like a madmen.
Maybe, the only issue is the rangefinder. It's what allows this camera to be so small but if you're not familiar with this type of focusing, let me explain. In the middle of your viewfinder, there is a yellow dot where two images must align on what you want to be in focus. But the second image is often difficult to see. What I did was add some black tape on the front of the viewfinder to create more contrast and it now works perfectly. I should also precise that the shutter release is very sensitive. A gentle touch is enough to take your shot. It's a thing you have to get used to but it might be a little strange at first. If you are looking for a small and discret camera to carry with you everyday. This is for you. The XA is all about simplicity, you don't have to think, it's always ready for you. |