The Olympus OM-10 is an SLR camera. Olympus wanted to position itself more strongly in the entry-level segment with this model in 1978.
The lenses of the Olympus OM-10 are interchangeable. Lenses with an Olympus OM bayonet can be used. There are a variety of options for this lens bayonet. However, there is no autofocus function.
The 35mm camera has a built-in exposure meter. It is designed for films from ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The automatic exposure is aperture priority. Here, the aperture is selected by the photographer and the exposure time is automatically set by the camera. There is no manual mode in the basic equipment, additional accessories are needed for this. However, the exposure can be influenced by the exposure compensation wheel on the top of the camera.
A bulb mode is available for long exposures. This allows the shutter to remain open for a variable amount of time to expose the film. With the PC flash port and hot shoe, it is possible to use a flash.
A tripod can be connected to the Olympus OM-10. A cable release can also be used with the camera. Additionally, the self-timer can be used for taking pictures. The Olympus OM-10 weighs 450 grams. The required power for the camera comes from two LR44 / SR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
The main limitations compared to the OM-1 are the non-interchangeable back, the non-existent cable connection for flash units and a limited usability of motorized film winders.
Films for the Olympus OM-10
The Olympus OM-10 requires 35mm film. These films are still manufactured and can be specified from almost any developing vendor. A good choice for the model is the Kodak Gold 200* (color film) and the Kodak T-Max 400* (black and white film).
Other model names
In the North American market, this camera model was sold as the Olympus OM-10 FC. A model with a data back, the back could not be easily replaced by the normal user on the OM-10, was sold under the name Olympus OM-10 QC.
Sample photos
All sample images were digitized with the Canon Canoscan 9000F (eBay / Amazon*).
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Olympus OM lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Weight | 450 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 96,80 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 95 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 111,19 Euro (120.15 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 117,54 Euro (126.64 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 109,35 Euro (117.98 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus OM-10
Is the Olympus OM-10 a manual or automatic camera?
The Olympus OM-10 primarily uses aperture-priority automatic exposure. You choose the aperture, and the camera sets the shutter speed. While it lacks a fully manual mode in its basic setup, a manual mode is possible with additional equipment and you can adjust exposure using the exposure compensation dial.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The Olympus OM-10 uses interchangeable lenses with an Olympus OM bayonet mount. There's a wide variety of lenses available for this mount, though keep in mind it doesn't have autofocus.
Does this camera need batteries?
Yes, the Olympus OM-10 runs on two LR44 or SR44 batteries. These are readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Can I use a flash with this device?
Yes, the Olympus OM-10 has both a PC flash connection and a hot shoe, allowing you to use various flash units.
What type of film does the single-lens reflex camera need?
The Olympus OM-10 uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films are compatible, and you can choose from a wide variety of ISO speeds.