u/saaulgoodmaan

The OM-1N was my first ever SLR camera (recently followed by the OM4Ti). Got 3 lenses for it, the 50mm 1.8, 100mm f2.8 and the 28mm f2.8.

The 28mm has been by far the most challenging lens I have used (but in a good way), as someone who only used a 35mm for a long time on my digital cameras, the 28mm represented something very different and a pretty fun experience overall.

Never been a big fan of getting close to people on the street and taking their photos and with the 28mm you somewhat have to do that but I still prefer to usually step back. It has given me some pretty fun and unique perspectives. Might snatch up a 21mm f3.5 to go even wider haha.

Also, sharp AF. I know it has a thiny bit of distortion but I kind of like it.

Films used: Fuji 200, Kodak Gold and Ultramax.

Slightly before getting the XA2 back in November, I got the XA. 

After 22 rolls, here are some of my favorite shots with some thoughts about it. 

The XA is simply quite a ridiculously fun camera. For its size and rangefinder capabilities, there is nothing quite like it at It’s price. I always have it with me due to the size and practicality of the clam design. 

While I love the simplicity of the XA2, the ability to actually focus is great and the focus throw is so ridiculously short that while it is not as fast the XA2, it is shorter than you might think and worth it in the long run. Also controlling the aperture is very nice too. 

Only did I recently started using the XA for social outings with the A11 flash and while it is hard to see the viewfinder in low light, it was actually quite doable to focus and will be replacing my XA2 for social outings. 

My copy ain’t perfect, the CdS cell for the viewfinder doesn’t always show the actual value the camera will choose (somewhat common issue), not that big of an issue unless you’re using low ISO films. 50 ISO films on the XA have given me very mixed results. 

I tend to shoot 100, 125, 160, or 400 ISO films to keep the flash still usable. Also, I recommend you only use SR44 batteries, LR44s gave me inconsistent results quite frequently (a shot would sound off with a way lower shutter speed). 

The lens is super great and the f2.8 has definitely come in handy a couple of times (if you don’t mind some vignette), when stopped down the lens really shines between f5.6-f11. Only did I recently start shooting color with the XA and now I’m thinking of getting the Rollei 35 for B&W to complement it (my XA2 has developed some light meter issues). 

Films used: HP5, XP2, Pro Image, FP4 Plus, Aerocolor, Foma 400, Ektar, Leica Monopan, Rollei 640 & Kodak Vision 3 50D.

I hope you enjoy and happy to answer any questions!