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.
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 | 31 mm |
| Widest aperture | - |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Country of production | Malaysia |
| Estimated value / Used price | 29,50 Euro 52462824425493132734 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 16, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 39,78 Euro (42.21 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 33,85 Euro (35.72 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus Trip AF 21
What type of film does the Olympus Trip AF 21 use?
The Olympus Trip AF 21 is designed for 35mm film, a format still widely available from various manufacturers. This allows for both color and black and white photography.
How does the compact camera focus on subjects?
It utilizes an integrated autofocus system, simplifying the process of achieving sharp images. This feature makes it user-friendly, especially for beginners.
Does the Olympus Trip AF 21 offer any manual controls?
No, the camera's exposure settings are fully automatic. The light meter and electronics determine the settings based on the film speed. Manual adjustments aren't possible.
What's the lens focal length of this point-and-shoot?
The fixed lens has a 31mm focal length, making it ideal for everyday snapshots and candid photography. This is a common focal length for compact cameras.
Besides the automatic flash, what other features aid in taking better pictures?
The camera includes a self-timer for group photos and a red-eye reduction function to minimize that common flash photography issue. It also has a tripod mount for stability.