The Olympus OM-1 MD is a 35mm camera. It is a revised version of the OM-1 from 1974. The biggest innovation of the camera was the change of the base plate, which allowed the use of a motor for film transport.
In total, 19 changes were made to the successful OM-1. The OM-1 MD can be recognized by a small “MD” badge on the front of the camera.
The lenses of the Olympus OM-1 MD can be exchanged. For this purpose, an Olympus OM bayonet was installed. Frequently, one encounters the 35mm photo camera with the Zuiko Auto-S 1:1.4/50 mm. The lens is focused by hand. The Olympus OM-1 MD does not have an autofocus function.
The 35 mm camera has a light meter. This can be used with films from a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure when metering through the lens (TTL). The shutter speed and aperture can be selected by the photographer.
The photo camera comes with a Bulb mode. An external flash unit can be used via the hot shoe or PC flash port. The shortest exposure time with the OM-1 MD’s hot shoe when using a flash is 1/60 second.
The Olympus OM-1 MD has a thread for a tripod. It can be released via self-timer or cable release. The camera weighs 510 grams. The dimensions of the housing are 13.6 x 8.3 x 5 cm. A PX 625 battery provides the power supply.
Films for the Olympus OM-1 MD
What kind of films are needed for the Olympus OM-1 MD? The camera is designed for 35mm film. 35mm films are still manufactured today and are quite easy to get. Possible films for the Olympus OM-1 MD are the Fujifilm Superia 200* for color images and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for black and white images.
The color film is processed using the C-41 process. This development process is performed by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film. Thus, something the large drugstore chains in Germany offer the development of color films.
The exposure area of the Olympus OM-1 MD has a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. So at least 36 photos fit on a 36 frame 35mm film. To the next picture you can either wind manually or you work with a winder. These motors are available as accessories and allow a maximum frame rate of up to 5 frames per second.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Pictures per second | 5 |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Olympus OM lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x PX625 battery |
| Size | 13,6 x 8,3 x 5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.35 x 3.27 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 510 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 177,03 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 24 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 194,61 Euro (209.99 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 164,15 Euro (177.51 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 177,38 Euro (191.58 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus OM-1 MD
What kind of film does this Olympus camera use?
The Olympus OM-1 MD uses 35mm film, both color and black and white. These are readily available from many retailers. The camera is designed for standard 36-exposure rolls.
How do I focus the lens on this 35mm camera?
The Olympus OM-1 MD has manual focus. You adjust the focus ring on the lens until the subject is sharp. There's no autofocus function on this model.
Can I use a flash with the Olympus OM-1 MD?
Yes, you can use an external flash. The camera has both a hot shoe and a PC flash connection for attaching a flash unit. The minimum shutter speed when using flash is 1/60th of a second.
Does the camera have a light meter?
Yes, the Olympus OM-1 MD has a built-in TTL light meter. This means it measures the light through the lens and helps you determine the correct exposure settings. It works with ISO 25 to 1600 film.
What's the weight and size of this classic camera?
The Olympus OM-1 MD weighs 510 grams and its dimensions are 13.6 x 8.3 x 5 cm. It's relatively compact and lightweight for a 35mm SLR.