The Olympus Trip 301, an basic camera for the snapshot photography from the 1990s, presents itself as an uncomplicated choice for photography beginners. Its sister, the Olympus Trip 300, is very similar, but has no self-timer.
Equipped with a fixed 34 mm lens and a maximum aperture of f/5.6, the Trip 301 doesn’t surprise with its speed, but it still offers solid performance for spontaneous moments.
The focus is fixed, as are most of the settings on this camera, which automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed. The sensitivity of the film is elegantly coded by the cartridge.
An integrated flash provides lighting when required, without the option of switching it off. But the camera is versatile: it can easily be mounted on a tripod. This is useful when using the self-timer. This makes it easy to take self-portraits or group pictures.
The Olympus Trip 301 requires two commercially available AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*), a readily available option for its operation.
Films for the Olympus Trip 301
The camera remains relevant today for those looking for a handy solution. In addition to batteries, film is of course required for photography.
According to the instruction manual, the Olympus Trip 301 is designed for 35mm films, which are still offered by various manufacturers.
The films available for the Trip 301 include Kodak T-Max 100* for impressive black and white shots and Kodak Ultramax 400* for vivid colour photographs. Of course, there are many more 35mm films to choose from.
The colour films are developed using the C-41 process, which is offered by professional photo labs. Many of these laboratories also offer the development of black and white films.
The Olympus Trip 301 negatives are 24mm x 36mm in size and one roll holds approximately 36 images. A small window on the back allows a view of the inserted film.
The automatic film transport function automatically rewinds the film to the next frame after each release and back into the cartridge at the end of the film. The rewinding process can also be triggered manually and a counter on the top shows the number of photos taken.
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 | 34 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.6 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Estimated value / Used price | 37,31 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 5 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 60,31 Euro (64.94 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 52,09 Euro (56.28 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus Trip 301
What type of film does this point-and-shoot camera use?
The Olympus Trip 301 uses standard 35mm film, readily available from various manufacturers. Both color and black and white films are compatible.
How does the Olympus Trip 301 handle focusing and exposure?
It has a fixed-focus lens and automatic exposure. The camera automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed, simplifying operation for beginners.
Does the compact camera have a built-in flash, and can it be turned off?
Yes, it features an integrated flash, but unfortunately, it cannot be turned off. The flash always activates when you take a picture.
What kind of batteries power this simple camera?
The Olympus Trip 301 is powered by two readily available AA batteries, making it convenient to operate.
Can this easy-to-use camera be used with a tripod?
Yes, the Olympus Trip 301 can be mounted on a tripod, which is especially useful for self-portraits or group photos when using the self-timer.