Olympus Trip 200

Introduced by Olympus in the 1990s, the Olympus Trip 200 is characterised as a beginner-friendly snapshot camera. Its ease of use makes it an ideal option for beginners. The device is characterised by a black plastic housing and was manufactured in Malaysia. Comparable models include the Olympus Trip 201 and the Trip AF 20.

Unlike other 35mm cameras, this model has a fixed lens, which makes it unique. The lens is protected by a sliding door, which also automatically activates the device when it is opened.

The lens offers a focal length of 31 mm, ideal for everyday shots and spontaneous photos. This model does not have a zoom function. The focus is fixed.

Without the option of manual adjustment, a built-in light meter simplifies exposure metering. The camera electronics determine exposure settings automatically, whereby the film speed is determined by the coding on the film cartridge. If you like to play with settings, this Olympus camera is therefore not the right choice.

There is also an indispensable built-in flash with fill-flash mode that fires with every shot. The fill flash is used to brighten underexposed subjects against the background, although the flash can be deactivated as required. To avoid red-eye in photos, the device has a corresponding automatic reduction function.

Although the model does not offer the option of attaching a tripod, a camera strap can be attached. It was also originally sold with a matching carrying case.

The Olympus Trip 200 comes without a self-timer function.

The camera is powered by two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*), which also drive the automatic film transport.

Films for the Olympus Trip 200

Designed for use with 35mm film, as specified in its manual, the Olympus Trip 200 enjoys a wide availability of film from various manufacturers thanks to the long-lasting popularity of the 35mm film format.

Available photographic films include Ilford XP2 Super* for outstanding black and white images and Kodak Portra 160* for vivid colour images, available from online retailers. Many companies offer compatible films.

The colour film, a negative film, is developed using the C-41 process, which is available in most photo labs, so development is possible at many drugstores.

With a standard exposure area of 24 mm x 36 mm, around 36 exposures can usually be made on a roll of film. After each shot, the camera automatically advances the film and rewinds it when it is finished. The user can also control this process manually via a switch on the base.

This model does not have a display, only a frame counter at the top and a small window at the back provide information about the film loaded.