Reto Project has launched the Kodak EC35, a budget 35mm film point-and-shoot that recalls the Olympus Mju era. The camera ships with fixed settings, a 25mm lens, and a distinctive curved sliding cover that protects the glass and locks the shutter. Pricing starts at $34.99.
The Swiss company licenses the Kodak brand to produce both analog and digital cameras. Its lineup includes the Kodak Snapic A1 film camera and the popular Kodak Charmera digital keychain camera.
Kodak EC35: key features and specs
The EC35 keeps things deliberately simple. Exposure is fixed at 1/100 second and f/10, while the 25mm lens focuses permanently at a set distance. There is no near/far toggle. A built-in flash handles low-light situations and requires one AA battery—the only battery the camera needs.
The design is where the EC35 stands out. The sliding lens cover mirrors the iconic Olympus Mju from the early 1990s, curving smoothly across the front. It doubles as a shutter lock, preventing accidental exposures inside bags. This is a practical touch often missing from budget film compacts.
Buyers pick from seven distinct finishes. Midnight Black and Blush Pink anchor the darker and lighter ends of the palette, with Vanilla White, Butter Yellow, Lavender, Powder Blue, and Avocado Green occupying the middle ground. The camera weighs just 102g.
Pricing breaks down as follows:
- Camera body only: $34.99 / £35.99
- Bundle with 24-exposure Kodak Ultramax 400: $44.99 / £45.99
Who is the EC35 for?
This camera targets newcomers to film and casual shooters who want a lightweight second body. Fixed settings eliminate decision fatigue—no aperture rings, no focus hunting. You point, you shoot. The sliding cover adds tactile satisfaction without adding complexity.
The bundle price makes it competitive against single rolls of premium film plus development costs. For a first-time film shooter, the total outlay sits well under $50.
What to watch next
Reto Project has released several affordable film cameras recently, but distribution outside Europe remains inconsistent. The EC35 may face the same availability gaps that limited the Snapic A1 in North American markets. Watch for expanded retail listings and third-party lens cap accessories—a common pain point with these models.
Practical example
Say you run a small creative studio and want to shoot "behind the scenes" content on film for social media. You cannot justify spending $200+ on a vintage Leica or Contax. The EC35 at $35 gives you a distinct visual style without blowing your gear budget. You load Ultramax 400, slide the cover, and shoot throughout a client day. The resulting images carry an analog texture that a smartphone cannot replicate.
Key takeaways
- Kodak EC35 offers fixed-focus simplicity at an entry-level price point
- Sliding lens cover provides physical shutter lock and vintage aesthetics
- Seven colorways cater to style-conscious buyers
- Bundle pricing under $45 makes it accessible for first-time film shooters
- Distribution and accessory availability remain open questions for non-European buyers
Frequently asked questions
Does the Kodak EC35 have autofocus?
No. The 25mm lens is fixed-focus with no near/far option, meaning everything from roughly arm's length onward should appear sharp.
What film does the Kodak EC35 use?
It accepts standard 35mm film cartridges. The example bundle pairs it with Kodak Ultramax 400, a consumer-grade color negative film.
Is the flash mandatory?
The flash is available but optional. You only need the AA battery when using it; otherwise the camera is fully mechanical.
How does the EC35 compare to the Kodak Snapic A1?
The Snapic A1 offers a near/far focus toggle, while the EC35 keeps focus permanently fixed. The EC35 adds the sliding lens cover, which the Snapic lacks.
Can I use the EC35 as an everyday carry camera?
At 102g with a protective sliding cover, it is compact enough for daily carry. However, the fixed focus and lack of viewfinder feedback make it better suited for casual shooting than serious work.