Olympus Trip AF 21

The Olympus Trip AF 21, which was launched on the market by Olympus in the 1990s, is a typical compact camera of the time, characterised by its simple operation, making it ideal for beginners. It is characterised by its black plastic housing and was manufactured in Malaysia. The Olympus Trip 201 and Olympus Trip AF 20 models have a similar design.

Unlike other 35mm cameras, this model has a fixed lens, which distinguishes it from other camera types. A sliding door is used to protect the lens from external influences and to activate the camera when it is opened.

The focal length of the lens is 31 mm, which makes the camera particularly suitable for everyday shots and spontaneous snapshots. There is no zoom function, but an integrated autofocus system makes it easier to focus the images.

Photography is simplified by the built-in light meter, which makes automatic settings as manual settings are not possible. The exposure parameters are set automatically by the camera electronics, whereby the film speed is determined by the code on the film cassette.

An integrated flash with fill-flash mode, which can be activated for each shot, is part of the equipment. The fill flash is used to brighten up subjects that are darker than the background. If required, the flash can also be deactivated and there is a function to reduce the red-eye effect.

This model has a thread for a tripod and a holder for a camera strap. The scope of delivery originally also included a matching bag.

The camera has a self-timer function for group shots.

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

Films for the Olympus Trip AF 21

According to the instruction manual, the camera is specifically designed for use with 35mm film. The enduring popularity of this film format ensures that it continues to be produced by various manufacturers.

Films available include Ilford XP2 Super* for high-quality black and white photography and Kodak Portra 400* for vibrant colour photography, among other options from various suppliers.

Colour films are usually negative films developed using the C-41 process, a service offered at most camera shops and drugstores.

The format of the camera’s exposure area is 24 mm x 36 mm, and one roll of film is usually sufficient for about 36 exposures. After taking a photo, the camera automatically advances the film. Once the film is fully exposed, it is automatically rewound. This can also be triggered manually using a switch on the underside of the camera.

Instead of a display, the model has a frame counter on the top and a small window on the back that makes the inserted film visible.

Differences to the Olympus Trip AF 20

Both cameras are very similar. The biggest differences are the self-timer and the tripod thread on the AF 21.