The Kodak Automatic 35F is a 35mm camera. It is a viewfinder camera from the Automatic series. The Kodak company built it from 1962 to 1966.
The lens of the 35mm camera is fixed. The name of the lens is “Kodak Ektanar 44mm f/2.8”. The focal length is 44mm. The largest aperture is f/2.8. The camera has no autofocus. It is focused manually, the different distance zones help to do this. The minimum distance to the subject is 91 cm.
The Kodak Automatic 35F has a built-in selenium light meter. It can be used with films from ISO 10 to ISO 320. The exposure settings are automatically controlled and adjusted by the 35mm photo camera. The desired exposure time can also be set manually. The aperture is also freely selectable in a range from f/2.8 to f/32. The Kodak Automatic Flash shutter supports two shutter speeds, 1/40 s and 1/80 s.
The photo camera can be mounted on a tripod. It does not have an external connection for a flash, like other models of the series. Therefore, there is a built-in holder for AG-1 flash bulbs. Two N-batteries are needed to operate the flash. The camera does not need any power to take pictures.
Films for the Kodak Automatic 35F
The Kodak Automatic 35F is built for 35mm format. 35mm films are still produced by various manufacturers. Possible films for the Kodak Automatic 35F are the Kodak Portra 160* for color photos and the Kodak T-Max 100* for b/w photos.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. This development process is carried out by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film. For example, you can give your films for development at most drugstores and professional photo labs.
The exposure area of the Kodak Automatic 35F is 24 mm x 36 mm. This means that at least 36 exposures fit onto a 36mm film. The film is wound manually to the next picture.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 44 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 91 cm / 2.9848 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/80 second, 1/40 second |
| Light meter | Selenium light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 10 to 320 |
| Exposure modes | Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | AG-1 Blitzbirne |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| End of production | 1966 |
| Production duration | 4 years |
FAQ about the Kodak Automatic 35F
Is the Kodak Automatic 35F a point-and-shoot camera?
Yes, it's a rangefinder camera, meaning you look through the viewfinder to compose your shot. It's part of Kodak's Automatic series and doesn't have autofocus; you manually focus using the distance scale.
How do I adjust the focus on this camera?
The Kodak Automatic 35F uses manual focus. You'll see a distance scale on the lens; estimate your subject's distance and adjust the focus ring accordingly. It has a minimum focusing distance of 91 cm.
What kind of flash does the camera use?
This camera doesn't have a hot shoe for external flashes. It has a built-in holder for AG-1 flash bulbs which are powered by two N-batteries. Remember, the camera itself doesn't require batteries for picture taking.
Does the camera have automatic exposure?
Yes, it has a built-in selenium light meter for automatic exposure, working with ISO 10-320 film. While it automatically sets the exposure, you can manually adjust the aperture from f/2.8 to f/32 and choose between 1/40 and 1/80 shutter speeds.
What type of film does the 35mm camera use?
The Kodak Automatic 35F uses standard 35mm film. Both color films like Fujifilm Superia 400 and black and white films like Kodak T-Max 400 are compatible. Remember to manually advance the film after each shot.