The Olympus Trip 35 has earned its reputation as one of the most approachable and rewarding 35mm film cameras ever made. It’s simple, beautifully designed, and capable of outstanding results… but only when it’s working exactly as intended.
Today, I specialise in selling professionally serviced Olympus Trip 35 cameras, along with original spare parts, accessories, and trusted advice for owners worldwide. This focus didn’t come from a business plan… it grew out of experience, frustration, learning, and eventually, a genuine respect for what this camera can be when properly cared for.
A Personal Start with Film Photography
My journey with film photography began at around twelve years old. My first camera was a Zenit EM, a solid, no-frills SLR and the only camera I could afford with my pocket money. It taught me the fundamentals… patience, light, and intention long before automation did any thinking for you.
I photographed regularly throughout my teens, but like many people, work took priority. As digital photography became dominant, film quietly slipped out of my life.
Years later, with life slowing down and retirement on the horizon, I stumbled across an Olympus Trip 35 for sale online. It looked fantastic in the listing… compact, elegant, full of character. When it arrived, however, it was clear the camera had spent years unused.
When “Looks Good” Isn’t Good Enough
This is a common story with vintage film cameras. Externally, they can look immaculate. Internally, decades of inactivity often tell a different story.
The Trip 35 needed repair. That challenge sent me down a rabbit hole of research: blogs, forums, service notes, and hands-on learning. Eventually, I found the confidence to open the camera and attempt my first repair… and remarkably, I got it working again.
But the first roll of film told the truth. The photos were disappointing.
That was the moment I realised something important:
repairing a Trip 35 is not the same as properly servicing one.
Learning to Service the Olympus Trip 35 Properly
Determined to understand why the results weren’t right, I began learning how the Trip 35 actually functions, its selenium meter, mechanics, aperture system, lens assembly and common failure points. I learned how to clean, calibrate, test, and evaluate performance properly.
After servicing the camera correctly, I ran a second roll of film through it. The difference was immediate. Accurate exposure. Crisp results. The camera finally behaved as Olympus intended.
That experience changed everything.
From One Camera to Many
One Trip 35 became two. Then three. Slowly, a small collection formed… each camera serviced, tested, and shot with. Eventually, it dawned on me that others might want a fully working Olympus Trip 35 they could trust straight out of the box.
I sold one. Then another. And before long, a personal project turned into a specialist business.
Today, the core of what I do is offering Olympus Trip 35 cameras that are fully serviced and genuinely ready to use… not just cleaned, not just “working”, but properly prepared for real photography.
Why Buying a Serviced Olympus Trip 35 Matters
Many Trip 35 cameras for sale today are unserviced. Some work partially. Others work briefly. Some don’t work at all, despite attractive listings.
A professionally serviced Trip 35 offers:
- Reliable exposure and shutter performance
- Confidence for first-time film photographers
- Longevity and repairability
- A far better shooting experience
In short, it turns a gamble into a dependable camera you can enjoy for years.
More Than Cameras: Parts, Accessories, and Advice
Alongside complete cameras, I also supply Olympus Trip 35 spare parts, accessories, and clear, experience-based guidance. The aim is to support owners at every stage… whether you’re shooting your first roll of 35mm film or maintaining a camera you’ve owned for decades.
I believe in repair over replacement, honesty over hype, and helping people understand what they’re buying. A well-serviced Trip 35 isn’t a trend or a novelty… it’s a camera for life.
So… wherever you go in life “Have a Nice Trip” 🙂
Jason
Other blogs here:
The History of the Olympus Trip 35
