Introduced in 1983, the L35AF was Nikon's first compact, "point-and-shoot" camera to feature autofocus... though, the L35AF is so much more than that. Retrospectively, much of the technology of the 80s can be a very hit-and-miss kind of list, but the L35AF sits most certainly on the "hit" side of things.
The L35AF is a camera that beautifully combines speed, ease of use, and simplicity with superb quality, in both the camera body and lens. The bulk of the L35AF's reputation revolves around its excellent five element 35mm f/2.8 lens, which was designed by Koichi Wakamiya and helped earn the L35AF the nickname of "Pikaichi" or "Top Notch" in Japan. The fact that Nikon was able to cram a five element lens, with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, into this small camera is a marvel in itself. Known for producing very sharp images with nice contrast and a mild darkening at the corners, many photographers have gravitated toward L35AF cameras specifically for this look. Additionally, the lens has a pretty fast autofocus system that, while not overly sophisticated, has proven to be reliable and consistent. There is even a handy scale in the viewfinder to show you which distance the camera is focusing.
Other key features of the L35AF include a built-in meter, whose sensor sits within the filter ring of the lens, so feel free to use almost any filter you'd like with the camera without fear of skewing the meter. There is also a built-in, pop-up flash, motorized film advance, backlight compensation, self timer, and manual ISO dial with a max setting of ISO 1,000.
Nikon would also release an L35AFD, which has an auto-date feature for imprinting the date onto the exposed frame.
Clarence Marrow and the Nikon L35AF
These COVID-19-dominated times have inspired more than their fair share of dark humor among the staff, led in no small part by our sole undead staff member, Clarence Marrow.
The other day Clarence was griping that despite having been with us almost half a year now, he has never been asked to model a camera for our museum. Wanting to smooth over the semi-hurt feelings, we asked Clarence to pick out one of his favorite cameras and he grabbed this Nikon L35AF. He says he likes the L35AF because its controls are pretty simple and easy to use - an important consideration when your manual dexterity is hindered by a complete lack of flesh and muscle. Clarence also says the Nikon L35AF makes a great street point-and-shoot camera due to its speed and relatively quiet operation, despite having a motorized film advance. Though Clarence admits that unobtrusive camera or not, it is not easy to remain inconspicuous when you are the lone skeleton on the street.
So be you undead or one of the living, Clarence gives his full endorsement of the Nikon L35AF.
za/sd
Nikon L35AF
If you're interested in point-and-shoot cameras, as well as rangefinders, be sure you are keeping an eye out for the models made during the 80's and the 90's. It was the peak of the point-and-shoot era and many of these cameras are remarkable in the success of their simplicity, like this Nikon L35AF.
The Nikon L35AF is a semi-compact, auto-focusing, point-and-shoot wonder with an excellent 35mm f/2.8 lens. Not only does it yield sharp images but, the lens also features a 46mm thread for the attachment of filters. A nice additional feature if you're using black and white film.
While somewhat limited by the mostly automatic interface, the lens and build of this camera is worthwhile especially if you're just taking an interest in the point and shoot cameras.
The L35AF is affordable, reliable, and the perfect machine to satisfy your point-and-shoot desires.