The Chinon 35FA II is an automatic camera for snapshots. It was produced by the Japanese manufacturer Chinon. A similar model with largely the same range of functions is the Chinon 35FA Super. There is also a variant with a data back for imprinting the shooting time in a corner of the pictures.
The compact camera comes with a fixed 35mm lens. This focal length is suitable for many applications. The largest aperture on this model is f/3.5. The glass lens is built up of three elements. The minimum distance to the subject for sharp images must be 1.2 meters. The distance is automatically set by the camera.
In general, most settings are selected automatically by the camera electronics. The exposure meter is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100, ISO 200, ISO 400 and ISO 1000. Shutter speed and aperture are selected by the camera electronics and cannot be determined by the photographer.
There is a built-in flash for taking pictures in low-light conditions. According to the manual, the flash’s power reaches up to 3.4 meters at ISO 100. Of course, a tripod thread on the bottom should not be missing. There is also a self-timer for group pictures and selfies.
According to the manual, the camera weighs 315 grams and measures 13.3 x 6.9 x 4.7 cm. Two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are responsible for the power supply. Here, of course, you can resort to rechargeable batteries.
Films for the Chinon 35FA II
The Chinon 35FA II is designed for the 35mm format. The film is automatically transported on after each photo. The application is therefore very simple. When the end of the film is reached, usually after 36 pictures, the film is also automatically transported back into the cartridge. Now it can be removed and taken to the developing lab. Before this, the camera must not be opened under any circumstances, otherwise the images may be lost due to the incident light. The pictures are taken in rectangular 3:2 format.
Possible films for this model that can still be purchased today are the Kodak Ultramax 400* and the Ilford Delta 100*. Both films deliver reliable results and can also convince in professional test reports. Other suitable films are also offered by Foma, Rollei and Adox, among others.
The development process for color film is the C-41 process. This process is offered by most professional photo labs. Thus, something the large drugstore chains in Germany offer the development of color films.
The Chinon 35FA II is no longer in production. The prices for the camera differ depending on its condition.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 120 cm / 3.936 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Lens design | 3 elements in 3 groups |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 1000 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,2 to 3,4 Meter / 3.94 to 11.15 Feet |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 13,3 x 6,9 x 4,7 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.24 x 2.72 x 1.85 inches |
| Weight | 315 Grams |
FAQ about the Chinon 35FA II
Is this camera easy to use for beginners?
Yes, the Chinon 35FA II is designed as a point-and-shoot camera. Most settings are automatic, so you don't need much technical knowledge to take photos. It's perfect for casual snapshots.
What kind of lens does the compact camera have?
It has a fixed 35mm lens, which is versatile for many situations. This focal length is good for general photography, and the aperture is f/3.5, letting in a decent amount of light.
How does the little device handle low light conditions?
The Chinon 35FA II has a built-in flash to help with low-light photography. The flash is stated to work effectively up to 3.4 meters when using ISO 100 film.
What type of film does this camera use?
It's designed for standard 35mm film. The camera automatically advances the film after each shot and rewinds it at the end of the roll (usually 36 exposures).
What are the dimensions and weight of the camera?
The Chinon 35FA II weighs 315 grams and measures 13.3 x 6.9 x 4.7 cm. It's a relatively compact and lightweight camera, easy to carry around.