A classic Olympus that made film photography simple, affordable, and reliable — and still stands out today.
Buying your first 35mm SLR can feel like stepping back into a different era — and that’s exactly what makes the Olympus OM10 so special.
Compact, beautifully designed, and remarkably easy to use, it was the camera that opened up the world of manual photography for a generation of beginners in the late 1970s and early ’80s.
At Film Camera Store, every Olympus OM10 we stock is fully inspected, tested, and graded before it’s listed for sale. That means each one isn’t just a piece of photographic history — it’s a fully functional tool, ready to load with film and start shooting again.
The story behind the OM10
Launched in 1979, the Olympus OM10 was designed as a lighter, more affordable version of the professional OM1 and OM2 SLRs.
Olympus wanted to create a camera that gave newcomers the same quality and control, without the weight or complexity of pro-level bodies.
The result was a sleek, minimalist design that felt advanced for its time. It offered aperture-priority auto exposure by default, allowing beginners to focus on composition while the camera handled the technical details — and with the optional Manual Adapter, more confident photographers could take full control of their settings.
Compact, dependable, and perfectly balanced
Part of the OM10’s appeal lies in its balance between sophistication and simplicity.
The aluminium body is lightweight yet solid, the shutter release smooth, and the ergonomics — particularly the right-hand grip and dial placement — make it easy to use even for complete beginners.
Pair it with a Zuiko 50 mm f/1.8 lens and you’ve got a compact kit capable of crisp, contrasty images that rival cameras twice its size. The camera’s clear viewfinder and accurate metering system still impress today, more than 40 years after its release.
Why it remains a beginner’s favourite
Even now, the Olympus OM10 is one of the most accessible film cameras you can own.
It’s intuitive to use, widely available, and incredibly reliable — a perfect entry point for anyone exploring the film revival or moving up from a point-and-shoot.
Where some vintage SLRs can feel intimidating, the OM10’s design welcomes you in. You can start on auto mode, then grow into manual shooting simply by adding the adapter. That gradual learning curve is one reason it continues to be recommended by enthusiasts and tutors alike.
And unlike many untested listings online, every Olympus camera sold through Film Camera Store goes through a detailed testing and grading process.
Our team checks shutter speeds, metering, film transport, and seals — ensuring each camera is fully operational before it’s offered for sale.
Learn more about how we assess every camera in our Camera Grading Guide.
Lens compatibility and the OM System advantage
One of the OM10’s biggest strengths is its compatibility with the vast Olympus OM System.
It accepts all OM-mount Zuiko lenses, meaning you can build a versatile kit that spans everything from wide-angle street photography to portrait and macro work.
The system’s small form factor and exceptional optical quality make it one of the most rewarding ecosystems for film shooters — especially for those who value portability without sacrificing image quality.
If you enjoy the OM10’s feel, you might also want to explore other Olympus models such as the Olympus Trip 35 or the Olympus Mju 1 — both icons in their own right.
Tested, graded, and ready to shoot
We don’t believe in “sold as seen.” Every Olympus OM10 that arrives at Film Camera Store undergoes full inspection and functional testing.
That means checking shutter timing, exposure metering, battery function, film advance, and viewfinder clarity. Only after a camera passes all these checks do we list it — complete with a detailed grading description so you know exactly what to expect.
For extra reassurance, our FAQs include information on our 30-day guarantee and return policy, which covers any functional issues that may arise after purchase.
The OM10 in today’s world
In an era of disposable tech, the Olympus OM10 represents something lasting.
It’s a camera built for real photography — tactile, deliberate, and beautifully made.
Its continued popularity proves that film isn’t just a trend; it’s a creative choice that connects photographers to the craft in a way digital never can.
Whether you’re new to film or rediscovering it, the OM10 is a reminder that great design never goes out of style.
Final thoughts
More than four decades on, the Olympus OM10 still does exactly what it was designed to do: make great photography easy and enjoyable.
It’s compact, reliable, and elegant — and when properly tested and serviced, it’s every bit as capable today as it was in 1979.
At Film Camera Store, every OM10 we sell is tested, graded, and ready to shoot.
Discover our full range of Olympus Film Cameras, explore our Camera Grading Guide, or head directly to the Olympus OM10 Product Listing to find your next classic.
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