The Kodak VR35 K12 is an automatic camera. It was offered by Eastman Kodak from 1986 to 1989. It is one of the top models of the VR35 series. The camera was built in Japan and is very similar to the K14. The body of the camera is made of plastic and most parts are black.
The lens of the 35mm camera is fixed. The name of the lens is “Kodak Ektar Lens”. The lens has a focal length of 35 mm. The lens is focused via autofocus. In general, most of the functions are automatic to make as little work as possible for the photographer or to eliminate the biggest sources of error.
The 35mm photo camera has a built-in light meter. It is designed for an ISO range of 100 to 1000. The Kodak VR35 K12 reads the ISO value via the DX code on the cartridge. Exposure settings are automatically controlled and set by the 35mm camera. Shutter speed and aperture cannot be changed. There is also no exposure compensation.
The photo camera has a self-timer and a tripod socket. Both of these features are honestly rare on VR35 cameras. For low light photography, there is a built-in Sensalite flash. The flash is flipped open for use, and when closed, the part serves as a protector for the optics.
Power is actually supplied by a Kodak Ultralife battery. This type of battery was developed especially for Kodak cameras. But it did not catch on, so it is hard to find the original batteries today. As an alternative, you can reach for a 9V battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Kodak VR35 K12
What kind of films does the Kodak VR35 K12 need? The camera needs 35mm format films. 35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. A good choice for color is Kodak Ultramax 400*. If you want to stay monochrome, the Ilford Delta 100* is not bad. Both films are very solid and give excellent results.
You can see if there is film in the camera through a small window on the back. After each press of the shutter button, the camera advances the film. A counter shows the number of photos taken. At the end of the roll, the material is wound back into the cartridge and can then be taken for development. The development of the above-mentioned films takes place in the C-41 process or in a black-and-white developer.
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/2.8 |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/8 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 1000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x 6LR61 battery |
| Country of production | Japan |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Production duration | 3 years |
FAQ about the Kodak VR35 K12
What kind of film does this camera use?
The Kodak VR35 K12 uses standard 35mm film. These are readily available and can be developed at most photo labs. You can choose color or black and white film depending on your preference.
Is the lens adjustable, or does it have a fixed focal length?
The camera has a fixed 35mm lens. You can't zoom in or out. It's a built-in Kodak Ektar lens and focuses automatically.
How does the camera focus?
The Kodak VR35 K12 uses autofocus. You don't need to manually adjust the focus; it does it automatically for you, making it easy to use.
Does this automatic camera have a flash?
Yes, it has a built-in Sensalite flash that pops up for use. When not in use, it folds down to protect the lens. It's helpful for shooting in low-light conditions.
What type of battery does the point-and-shoot need?
It originally used a Kodak Ultralife battery, but those are hard to find now. A 9V battery is a good alternative, making it easy to find replacements.