Konica EFJ

Introduced by Konica in the 1980s as a user-friendly compact camera, the Konica EFJ, also known as the C35 EFJ in Japan, is a classic viewfinder camera aimed at amateur photographers. It was designed to make photography uncomplicated: simply aim at the subject and shoot.

This model was part of a wave of point-and-shoot cameras that impressed with their ease of use and compactness. Another model is the Konica POP, which was introduced earlier and lacks the date imprinting function.

Features of the Konica EFJ

The camera is permanently attached to the “Hexanon 36 mm f/4” lens, an optic that offered solid performance for its time. The lens features a fixed focal length of 36 mm, which corresponds to a slight wide-angle and is well-suited for everyday snapshots.

The largest aperture is f/4, which is ideal for shooting in good lighting conditions. Manual focusing of the lens is not required as it is a fixed-focus lens. This design significantly simplifies operation, but also means that a recommended minimum distance of about 1.5 meters from the subject should be maintained to avoid blurry images.

What distinguishes this camera from many other models of its time is the absence of an integrated exposure meter. The photographer must therefore rely on their sense of light conditions or use external aids, although the camera has an underexposure warning LED that indicates when flash use is advisable.

For situations with insufficient light, the camera is equipped with a built-in flash. Its range is sufficient for distances of up to two to five meters at a film speed of ISO 100. To ensure blur-free images even with longer exposure times, which is particularly relevant in twilight, the Konica EFJ has a practical tripod thread on the underside.

With a weight of around 280 grams according to the manual and its compact dimensions of 11.6 x 7 x 5.1 cm, the camera is pleasantly light and portable. It fits well in the hand and easily slips into a bag, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go. Two standard AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are required for powering the 35mm camera.

A special feature is the “Auto Date” function for imprinting the shooting date. This function can also be turned off if desired.

Films for the Konica EFJ

What film to use for the Konica EFJ? The camera shoots classic 35mm films, which are still manufactured and widely distributed today.

When it comes to color photography, many photographers like to use Kodak Portra 400* to obtain appealing and high-quality images. For black and white photography enthusiasts, however, Ilford Delta 100* is an extremely popular choice.

Both film types are known for their reliable and decent results and are, according to test reports, excellent for everyday use. Other notable manufacturers of 35mm films that can also be considered include Rollei, Adox, and Foma.

Color negative film is developed using the standardized C-41 process. This process is offered by most professional photo labs, and even some major drugstore chains in Germany allow color film development.

When developing black and white film, you have the choice between handing it over to a specialized photo lab or developing it yourself at home, which allows for greater creative control over the final result. Numerous online resources and guides can assist with the first steps of home development.

The camera captures the classic 24 mm x 36 mm small format. Film advance to the next frame is done manually via a transport lever, which further emphasizes the analog character of photography.

Used Prices

Nowadays, the Konica EFJ can only be purchased on the used market. Depending on the optical and technical condition, as well as the color variant, the cost of this charming vintage camera can fluctuate.