A Snapshot of the Samsung Fino 105 Super
The Samsung Fino 105 Super is a compact 35mm point & shoot camera built for one thing: making photography easy. With fully automatic exposure, motorised film advance, and a versatile zoom lens, it fits perfectly into the current revival of simple, reliable analog cameras.
Instead of endless menus and modes, the Fino 105 Super offers a straightforward experience: load film, half-press to focus, and click. That ease of use makes it especially attractive for people trying film for the first time, as well as digital shooters who want a laid-back companion for weekends and travel.
The first time I picked up a film camera again after years of shooting digital, I was surprised by how quiet my mind became. No histograms, no exposure bracketing—just the gentle whirr of the motor and the feeling that every frame mattered.
Design, Features, and Handling
Compact body with practical controls
The Fino 105 Super has a classic late‑90s/early‑2000s look: rounded plastic shell, a small handgrip, and minimal buttons. It slips easily into a jacket pocket or small bag, which makes it a great everyday or travel camera. Most operations are handled with a few clearly labelled buttons and an LCD on the top plate, showing film count, flash mode, and battery status.
Versatile 38–105mm zoom lens
The built-in zoom lens covers a useful range from moderate wide-angle (38mm) to telephoto (105mm). At 38mm, it’s ideal for street scenes, family gatherings, and environmental portraits. Zoom to 105mm and you can isolate subjects, capture candid portraits, or bring distant details a bit closer—all without changing lenses.
Automatic exposure, flash, and focus
The Fino 105 Super is point & shoot in the purest sense. Focus and exposure are handled automatically, with the camera using its autofocus and metering to find a workable exposure in changing light. A built-in flash helps in low-light situations, and indicators in the viewfinder confirm focus and flash readiness before you take the shot.
Shooting Film in 2025: Practical Tips
Film choices that suit the Fino 105 Super
Film is very much alive in 2025, and the Fino 105 Super plays nicely with commonly available 35mm films. For most situations, ISO 200–400 color negative film strikes a great balance between grain, exposure latitude, and flexibility. Think of classic emulsions like Kodak Gold 200 for warm everyday shots, or Ilford HP5 Plus for expressive black & white with forgiving exposure.
Battery and care basics
The camera runs on a single CR123A lithium battery, which is still widely available in hardware stores, camera shops, and online. One battery typically lasts multiple rolls depending on flash use. Because this is an older camera, a bit of care goes a long way in keeping it dependable.
- Load a fresh CR123A battery.
- Choose ISO 200–400 film for balanced exposure.
- Keep the zoom lens mechanism clean and smooth.
- Store batteries separately when not in use.
- Use a strap or case for added protection.
- Inspect the battery compartment for corrosion.
- Test the zoom for smooth motion.
- Check the flash and autofocus indicators.
- Evaluate cosmetic condition and lens clarity.
Slowing down with 36 frames
With a limited number of exposures on each roll, the Fino 105 Super encourages you to think just a little more before pressing the shutter. That slower rhythm, combined with the surprise of developed negatives, is part of what keeps film relevant long after its heyday.
Buying a Samsung Fino 105 Super Second-Hand
What to check before you buy
Second-hand point & shoots can be wonderfully reliable, but they benefit from a quick inspection. Whether you’re browsing on DutchThrift.com or at a local market, there are a few essentials to verify so you end up with a camera that’s ready to shoot.
Use this simple checklist when evaluating a Fino 105 Super:
- Open the battery door and check for any white or green residue indicating corrosion.
- Insert a CR123A battery and confirm the camera powers up and the LCD displays correctly.
- Load a test roll or dummy film to see if the motor advances and rewinds smoothly.
- Zoom the lens from wide to telephoto and listen for any grinding or hesitation.
- Half-press the shutter to confirm autofocus lock and flash ready signals in the viewfinder.
- Inspect the lens front element for scratches, haze, or fungus.
- Look over the body for cracks, loose parts, or dents.
What is a fair price?
A working Samsung Fino 105 Super typically sits in the accessible range of around €20–€60, depending on condition. Cameras in excellent cosmetic shape, especially those with original box, strap, and manuals, may cost more but often offer better long-term reliability. If you’re just starting out, prioritise a fully working camera over cosmetic perfection.
Why the Fino 105 Super Endures
In a world of high‑resolution sensors and endless smartphone upgrades, a camera like the Fino 105 Super might seem modest on paper. Yet that modesty is its strength. It strips away complexity and leaves you with the essentials: composition, timing, and the anticipation of seeing your developed photos.
Beyond nostalgia, this camera embodies a sustainable approach to photography. By choosing a second-hand point and shoot, you’re extending the life of existing gear instead of buying new plastic and electronics. You gain a tangible, mechanical connection to your images, while keeping another capable camera in circulation.
FAQs
Is the Samsung Fino 105 Super good for beginners? Yes. Its automatic settings, simple controls, and easy film loading make it ideal for newcomers who want to explore film without worrying about manual exposure or focus.
What type of battery does the Samsung Fino 105 Super use? The camera uses one CR123A lithium battery, a common size that can still be found in many hardware stores, camera shops, and online retailers.
Where can I find film suitable for the Fino 105 Super? ISO 200–400 color negative and black & white films—such as Kodak Gold and Ilford HP5 Plus—are widely available from online shops and dedicated camera stores.
How much should I pay for a working Samsung Fino 105 Super? Expect to pay roughly €20–€60 for a functioning camera, depending on cosmetic condition and included accessories. Boxed or mint examples can command higher prices.
Ready to start your own film story with a compact, no-fuss camera? Explore our carefully inspected analog cameras, including point & shoots like the Samsung Fino 105 Super, and find a second-hand companion that fits your style.