Nikon L35AF Battery + Film Camera Review (Pikaichi)

If you’re reading this Nikon L35AF Battery + Film Camera Review (Pikaichi), you’re probably standing where so many beginners and collectors end up… holding the Nikon L35AF and wondering why this chunkier ’80s compact has such a cult following.

And the fact that Nikon built a film camera that aged extremely well.

The Nikon L35AF looks simple on the outside, but the moment you fire the shutter and see your photos… you get it.

Hi! I’m Teddy. I’ve handled over 4,200 film cameras (yes really) through my eBay shop (Analog Adventure) and YouTube channel.

The L35AF is one of the only ’80s point-and-shoots I see consistently working 40+ years later.

Not because it’s pampered… but because it’s solid.

Before you load a roll, though, let’s talk about step one:

Powering it correctly.

“Why Do People Still Love the Nikon L35AF?”

The Nikon L35AF is famous for three reasons:

1. The lens: a 35mm f/2.8 that punches way above a point-and-shoot category.
2. The exposure system: Nikon put actual effort into metering.
3. The build: heavier than most compacts, but incredibly dependable.

People love it because:

• Autofocus is surprisingly accurate for the early ’80s
• The lens has beautiful contrast and color
• It handles backlight better than most ‘90s point-and-shoots
• Flash is strong but not harsh
• The camera feels solid

The L35AF was Nikon’s first autofocus compact… and they overbuilt it to make a point.

Today, that durability pays off.

Choosing the Right Nikon L35AF Battery

The Nikon L35AF battery is both easy to find and affordable.

It takes two AA batteries… the most common battery on earth.

Why this is great:

• Cheap
• Easy to replace
• Available anywhere you travel
• No specialty lithium cells
• Strong enough to power multiple rolls with flash

Once the AAs are in, the camera powers on and is ready to shoot immediately.

Buying the Nikon L35AF

The Nikon L35AF shows up often… but not always in good condition.

These cameras were used heavily because they were good, which means many have wear.

When checking one in person or online, look for:

1. Clean battery compartment (AA leakage is common)
2. AF confirmation works (half-press should beep/lock)
3. Flash charges and fires
4. Lens extends and retracts smoothly
5. Viewfinder is clear
6. Light seals aren’t crumbling
7. Film advance isn’t grinding

If a copy passes these checkpoints, it’s likely ready for another decade of shooting.

“But What Do the Images Look Like?”

This is where the L35AF separates itself from the pack.

The 35mm f/2.8 lens is legitimately one of the best lenses ever put on a consumer point-and-shoot.

Expect:

• Rich contrast
• Sharp corners
• Beautiful tones
• Very little distortion
• Excellent color rendering
• Clean, classic Nikon look

Flash photography looks like peak ’80s: punchy colors, crisp details, and that nostalgic indoor vibe.

Outdoors?

This thing sings.

Shadows are deep but controlled.

Highlights roll off well.

And the AF is far more reliable than it has any right to be.

If you want a vintage film camera that consistently produces keepers, this is one of the safest buys.

Best For:
Street photography, travel, family moments, anyone who wants quality images

Alternatives Worth Considering

If the Nikon L35AF sounds close but not quite right, try:

• Minolta Hi Matic AF2 — very popular vintage film camera
• Yashica T4/T5 — premium Zeiss lens, cult following
• Canon Sure Shot AF35M — Canon’s ‘80s counterpart with great autofocus

Each has its own vibe… but the L35AF is definitely one to consider.

Becoming the Shooter You Want to Be

Film photography gets easier when you stop fussing with settings and start shooting what’s in front of you.

The Nikon L35AF is perfect for that:

• No menus
• No complications
• No “did it actually focus?” anxiety
• Just aim, half-press, shoot

Load your AA batteries.

Load your film.

Hit the streets.

You’ll learn more through three rolls of daily shooting than from months of comparing spec sheets.

Should You Buy One?

If you want a reliable, sharp, easy-to-use vintage 35mm film camera, the Nikon L35AF is absolutely worth it.

It has:

• A fantastic lens
• Simple controls
• Everyday batteries
• Legendary durability

It’s one of the best beginner-friendly vintage film cameras ever made… and still a favorite among experienced shooters.

Frequently Asked Questions