Just shy of halfway through cataloging my collection of cameras and related items. I am taking my time, enjoying going through them all, learning about the ones I have not spent time with. This is one of them, came across it today, I knew I had it, but in looking up, this ordinary-looking camera is akind of a big deal. From the early 1980s, I will give you the description that is going into the museum information below. I am making a separate list for myself of the cameras I plan to use. I think it would make a great blog. The history of the camera, the process of getting it back into working condition (just getting batteries for some of these is work), and then sharing the photos I get. Sounds interesting to me – and really selfishly, that is all that matters.

A landmark 35mm film camera featuring the innovative “dust barrier” clamshell design that protects the lens and serves as the power switch. The Olympus XA2 is equipped with a high-performance 35mm f/3.5 D.Zuiko lens (4 elements in 3 groups) and utilizes a simple three-zone scale focusing system (close-up, group, and landscape). One of its most distinctive features is the focus reset; when the clamshell is closed, the focus lever automatically returns to the middle “group” position to ensure the camera is ready for a quick snapshot when next opened. Historically, this model was designed by Yoshihisa Maitani—the mastermind behind the Olympus Pen and OM-1 systems—to provide a high-quality alternative to the low-resolution pocket cameras of the 1970s. It features a fully programmed automatic exposure system and an extremely sensitive, feather-touch electromagnetic shutter release. The XA2 won the Japanese Good Design Award and remains a favorite for street photographers due to its silent operation and pocketability.

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This has been sitting in the studio for a couple of months, quietly teasing me, wanting to be used. Today I finally loaded her up and went for a walk. Nothing special, a test roll—some frames at the park, with her and of her. According to the serial number, she’s from 1969 and in incredible condition: clean, smooth, and ready to work. A camera I’ve always wanted, generously gifted to me this fall. A tool used by so many photographers I admire—Harold Feinstein, Todd Webb, Vivian Maier, Fritz Henle, and many more. This one won’t sit on a shelf very often. She’ll be in rotation with my Hasselblad 500C as I lean back toward analog. Film is my future.

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The image was taken a while back during my trip to Ellis Island last year, where I took photos of the closed portions. However, it was processed today—a film shot taken with one of my favorite cameras, the Widelux 7. I had to send her away for a few months; she needs to be serviced, cleaned, and the banding issue, which is visible in the photo above, needs to be addressed. Not a fast process – there are not many left who work on them. I had the roll developed, and today, I scanned and shared the images.

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