The Canon EOS 650: A Budget-Friendly Gem for Film Photographers in 2024
If you’ve been eyeing film photography but balk at the soaring prices of cameras and gear, you’re not alone. It’s no secret that film photography has become more expensive in recent years. The days of finding affordable film cameras seem like a distant memory. Back in 2015, picking up a Leica M6 for $1000 was possible—compared to today’s price tag of $3000! But fear not: there are still ways to enjoy film photography without breaking the bank.
Enter the Canon EOS 650, the very first Canon camera to introduce autofocus back in 1987. Despite its age, this camera is a fantastic budget-friendly option for anyone who wants to get into film photography or expand their current setup without spending a fortune.
A Classic Piece of Canon History
Released in 1987, the Canon EOS 650 was groundbreaking for its time. It was the first Canon camera to feature the EOS (Electro-Optical System) mount, which supported autofocus. That lens mount would go on to be used in Canon cameras for over 30 years, a testament to its enduring quality.
What makes the EOS 650 especially appealing in 2024 is its compatibility with modern Canon EF lenses. This means you can pair this older body with newer lenses featuring updated coatings and optics, allowing you to achieve high-quality images with gear that’s still easy to find and afford.
Features and Quirks
The Canon EOS 650 is a relatively simple camera to operate, making it an excellent option for beginners. It has the standard shooting modes you’d expect—Manual, Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority—along with a unique Depth Mode that attempts to keep two different points in focus at the same time. While that might sound futuristic, it’s not very practical in real-world use.
One of the camera's few drawbacks is its slightly awkward manual mode. Unlike later Canon models, where the controls for aperture and shutter speed are intuitive, the EOS 650 forces you to press a button near the lens mount to switch between adjusting shutter speed and aperture. Plus, the exposure system can be a bit cryptic, with letter codes (OP, CL, OO) replacing the traditional exposure needle.
But here’s the thing: most users won’t need to rely on manual mode. The camera works perfectly well in aperture priority, and with modern EF lenses, you’re almost guaranteed to capture sharp, well-exposed images without much hassle.
The Best Part: The Price!
Here’s the kicker: you can score a Canon EOS 650 for less than $100. In fact, sites like Used Photo Pro often have deals like pairing a Canon A2 (another great model from the EOS line) with a 50mm 1.8 lens for under $95! If you want an even cheaper option, look for lenses like the Canon EF 35-80mm, which can bring your total setup to under $70.
When you compare that to the prices of high-end film cameras like the Leica M6, it’s a no-brainer. The EOS 650, while not as flashy, gets the job done—and does so without emptying your wallet.
Why You Don’t Need a Leica
While there’s nothing wrong with owning a Leica or a Mamiya, this video and blog post prove that you don’t need one to take incredible film photos. The EOS 650 offers everything you need for a fraction of the cost. Plus, with the vast selection of EF lenses available, you can customize your kit to suit any style of photography.
For anyone looking to get into film photography on a budget, the Canon EOS 650 is a hidden gem that delivers excellent results without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, this camera offers a fantastic entry point into the world of film—while keeping your budget intact.
Conclusion
Film photography doesn’t have to be expensive, and the Canon EOS 650 is proof. This classic camera offers excellent image quality, ease of use, and compatibility with modern lenses—all for under $100. If you're tired of hearing about pricey Leicas and want a solid, affordable alternative, the EOS 650 might just be your perfect match.
Happy shooting!
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