The Halina Panorama is a simple snapshot camera for the 35 mm format. It comes with a plastic housing and was manufactured in China. Functionally identical models were sold under different names and brands.
The obvious manufacturer is Haking from Hong Kong. However, it is also possible that another company with production facilities in the People’s Republic of China was responsible for the production itself. One candidate could be New Taiwan Photographic Corp (Ouyama), which had a factory in Shenzhen and also produced cameras.
There was also the Halina Panorama-F, which is equipped with an additional flash.
Functions of the camera
The overview the range of functions of the 35mm camera is quite short, as there is not much to mention. It comes with a fixed focal length of probably 28 mm. The aperture is fixed, as is the shutter speed.
There is no exposure meter. There is also no autofocus. The focus is fixed at 1 meter to infinity. For reasonably sharp pictures, you should therefore keep at least 1 meter away from the subject.
Batteries are not necessary for the camera. All functions are mechanical. There is no flash, tripod socket or self-timer. There is an attachment for a wrist strap.
The panorama function
When marketing the camera, the panorama function was highlighted. However, this is not a real panorama camera.
A normal 35 mm camera exposes an area of 24 mm x 36 mm. The Halina Panorama exposes 13 mm x 36 mm. This image ratio gives the impression of a panorama, especially if you print the prints in this ratio.
This image ratio is achieved by a mask in the camera that covers part of the image. The plastic mask can theoretically be removed so that the camera again exposes 24 mm x 36 mm. However, the simple viewfinder still shows the panorama format.
This panorama function can be found on many compact cameras of the time. In many cases, however, you could switch between normal photos and panorama photos.
To make such panoramic pictures, you can also simply crop the picture by software.
Films for the Halina Panorama
Of course, you can still use the camera. 35mm film is exposed in the Halina Panorama. Even today, there is still a production of 35mm films that can be easily developed at most developing service providers.
Possible films for the Halina Panorama are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for colour photos and the Ilford HP5* for b/w images. Of course, there are a variety of other suitable films for this camera. Both films deliver solid results and hold 36 images. Other film material is available from Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei, Foma and Lomography, among others.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Thumbwheel |
| Picture format | 13 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 28 mm |
| Widest aperture | - |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Panorama function | Yes |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Manufacturer | Haking |
| Country of production | China |
| Estimated value / Used price | 20,04 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 5 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 17,57 Euro (18.40 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 17,94 Euro (18.40 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 15,93 Euro (16.24 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Halina Panorama
What type of film does this simple snapshot camera use?
The Halina Panorama uses standard 35mm film, readily available from various manufacturers like Kodak, Ilford, and Fujifilm. These films can be easily developed by most photo labs.
Does the camera have any automatic features like autofocus or an exposure meter?
No, the Halina Panorama is entirely mechanical. It lacks autofocus and an exposure meter; the focus is fixed, and aperture and shutter speed are pre-set.
How is the 'panorama' effect achieved in this camera, considering it's not a true panoramic camera?
The 'panorama' effect is created by a mask inside the camera that restricts the film area to 13mm x 36mm, creating a wider, panoramic aspect ratio. It's not a true panoramic camera.
What is the focal length and aperture of the lens used on the Halina Panorama?
The Halina Panorama features a fixed focal length lens, likely around 28mm, with a fixed aperture. Precise specifications are not readily available.
What is the manufacturer of this inexpensive point-and-shoot camera and where was it made?
While the exact manufacturer is uncertain, it's likely Haking from Hong Kong or possibly New Taiwan Photographic Corp. The camera itself was manufactured in China.