The Kodak VR35 K5 is a camera from Kodak. It is a snapshot camera. The model was presented by Eastman Kodak in the late 80s. The copies were built in Asia. The body of the camera is black and made of plastic. The target group was mainly beginners and occasional photographers. You don’t really need a manual for this model, if you have dealt with cameras a bit.
The 35mm camera comes with a fixed lens. 38mm is the stated focal length of the lens. The largest aperture of the camera is f/5.6. There is no possibility to change the focus, it is fixed. Filter with a 46 mm diameter can be attached to the lens.
The correct exposure cannot be measured by the 35 mm camera, as it does not have a light meter. However, there is a slider to set the film speed. The choices are ISO 100/200 and ISO 400, and a different aperture is selected depending on the setting. The shutter speed is always 1/125 second.
The Kodak VR35 K5 comes with a built-in flash. The photo camera has a thread for a tripod and cable release. The connection for a cable release is very unusual for a camera of this era from Kodak. The camera requires two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Kodak VR35 K5
Photographic film is exposed in the Kodak VR35 K5, more specifically 35mm film. 35mm films are still produced today and can be developed in most labs. Possible films for the fixed focus camera are the Kodak Portra 400* for color images and the Ilford HP5* for black and white images. Both are solid films for everyday shooting and special events.
The 35mm photo camera negatives are 24mm x 36mm in size. The film is advanced to the next free frame fully automatically. The transport back to the cartridge is also handled by a motor.
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 | 38 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.6 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | 1/125 second |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
FAQ about the Kodak VR35 K5
Is the Kodak VR35 K5 difficult to use for a beginner?
No, the Kodak VR35 K5 is designed for beginners. Its simple point-and-shoot design and lack of complicated settings make it easy to use, even without a detailed manual.
What kind of lens does this simple camera have?
It has a fixed 38mm lens, meaning you can't zoom in or out. This is a common feature for simple cameras like this, offering a standard field of view.
Does the camera measure the light to set the exposure automatically?
No, the Kodak VR35 K5 doesn't have a light meter. You set the film speed (ISO 100/200 or 400), and the shutter speed is fixed at 1/125th of a second.
Can I use different types of film with this point-and-shoot camera?
Yes, it uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films are compatible. The camera automatically advances the film.
What type of batteries does the snapshot camera need?
The Kodak VR35 K5 runs on two standard AA batteries. These are readily available and inexpensive.