I'd been looking for a 35mm point-and-shoot for months when I stumbled upon the Nikon L35AW. Listed at a chill $99 on eBay with free shipping, it felt like a no-brainer. A totally waterproof camera sounded like a fun way to branch out and photograph subjects that my other film and digital cameras (i.e., super duper not waterproof) couldn't handle. However, I didn't expect how much I'd love this camera for every use case imaginable.
This $99 Film Camera Works Underwater | Nikon L35AW Review
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Time to read 5 min
An underwater 35mm camera from Nikon that's just as capable on land as it is at sea.
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Table of contents
Quick Overview
First, a quick look at the specs. This fully waterproof brick has the same 35mm f/2.8 lens as its renowned cousin, the Nikon L35AF. At the camera's top, there's an on/off/timer switch and dial to select autofocus or zone focus. The zone focus option is available because the autofocus doesn't work underwater. On the front, you have an on/off switch for the built-in flash, and lastly, on the side, there's a heavy-duty film back opening switch to seal the film from water. That's it! No fiddling with the aperture or shutter speed, it's as simple as point and shoot.
Even if you hate getting wet, the lens alone earns it a spot in your bag. For street work, the black version keeps it low-key (it also came in orange and blue), and I’d argue it can be the only point-and-shoot most people need.
The Lens
The 35mm f/2.8 lens gives crisp, punchy images with high micro-contrast — in fact, it's so good that I'd argue why it's most people buy this camera in the first place.
^he corner distortion is minimal and vignetting is slight, its flare stays tasteful even in direct sun. You've got a maximum aperture of f/2.8 that meters up to ISO 1600 decently, so low light is not a problem. I know the ring may not read “Nikkor" level precision, but the files speak for themselves.
Use Cases
As I've already alluded to, I bought this camera to shoot underwater film, but I have found many other use cases over the last few months of owning it. Let's unpack each of them:
In The Water...
Probably (definitely?) the most obvious – shooting it in the water! I half expected this to break the first time I fully submerged it, but to my delight, it worked perfectly. I can't explain just how fun it is to take photos in a body of water – it feels like I'm getting away with something that I shouldn't be doing in the first place. Access to this literal new territory has unlocked a new part of my creative brain.
However, because of the size of the viewfinder, it's pretty challenging to shoot this in the water. I had to jam my eye against the small window, and it seemed like every time I was about to fire, I'd get knocked over by a wave. The entire process took some getting used to, but in the end, everything still turned out perfectly usable, and it was an enjoyable experience.
In a Storm...
Very similar to shooting in the water, being able to take this camera out during a storm was an absolute joy. These images were taken during my vacation with my family in August, and they're so special to me. We were outside when the clouds opened up, and we raced inside to keep everything dry. As soon as we got indoors, though, we thought it would be fun to sprint back out, jump in the water, and dance in the rain. This moment was so beautiful and accessible; if not for this camera, I wouldn't have had any way to document it.
Everyday Use...
I know, shocking, right? This camera can be used OUTSIDE of water, too?! Yep, works like a charm. The lens is a sharp 35mm 2.8, rendering colors beautifully. This camera fits into what I call the "macro lens paradox" – just because something is built for a specific use doesn't mean you have to use it exclusively for that use. Macro lenses can be used for portraits, and underwater cameras can be used for everyday moments.
Party Camera...
This built-in flash is fantastic and adds even more versatility to this camera. When you've wrapped a day of shooting in the water, in a storm, or around town, you can still bring this thing out when the lights get low and are totally prepared.
This film is *chef’s kiss* when you want to get those classic reddish tones like Ektar, but better than Ektar. This film brings the vibrancy and richness of the colors out of a cityscape, emphasizing highlights you didn’t won’t even see with just your eyes. I love warm photos. When people look at my photos, I want them to feel like they’re literally standing in an afternoon sunbeam streaming through their windows. This film makes that happen — period. Film photographers are always asking the film gods to bless us with more film and new stocks, but particularly within the past few years after price hikes and supply chain issues, we’re all feeling the crunch (or rather, not hearing the sound of our cameras loading). But this film is now abundant, available through online retailers or your local camera shops.What I Love:
Vibrant Colors
Consistent Warmth
Brand New
Pros
Underwater for FILM?!
I can abuse it without hurting it.
So great for everyday use. Quality enough for precious memories.
Cons
Lots of grain given its experimental nature.
Not as sharp as other SLRs, like the Nikon F3, but still holds its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this camera actually waterproof?
Yes—rated for about 3 m / ~10 ft and built like a brick for beach, pool, or rainy days.
What batteries does the camera take?
Standard AA batteries (two of them) on the L35AW.
Does it shoot manually at all?
A: It’s auto-everything, but the L35AF has a backlight compensation lever; otherwise point-shoot-enjoy.
" It feels like the perfect utility camera – I don't have to baby it or worry about it getting wet, and I can use it in every lighting or weather imaginable."
Steven Schultz
Chicago-based artist Steven Schultz uses film photography, filmmaking, and design to explore human stories.
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