Kodak Ektar H35N Review: The Half Frame Camera Making Film Photography Affordable Again (2025)

Film photography has become an expensive hobby in recent years. Rising costs for film rolls and development make it difficult for beginners to experiment freely. The Kodak Ektar H35N changes that by using a half frame format that doubles your shots per roll while keeping the authentic film experience intact. With 72 photos instead of 36, this camera redefines value and accessibility for a new generation of photographers.

Built for both beginners and creators, the H35N Premium Kit takes this innovation further by bundling the essentials you need to shoot anywhere, from beaches to music festivals. It’s practical, fun, and thoughtfully designed for anyone ready to bring film back into their routine without breaking the bank.

Half Frame Shooting: Double the Photos, Double the Fun

The H35N uses half frame film format, meaning it captures two vertical 18mm x 24mm photos in the same space as a standard 35mm frame. This gives you 72 shots per 36-exposure roll, effectively cutting your film and development costs in half.

The vertical orientation feels natural for smartphone users, encouraging creative compositions that fit today’s visual habits. It’s perfect for diptychs and storytelling sequences, letting you pair two moments side by side on the same strip of film. This format invites experimentation and keeps photography playful and spontaneous.

What’s Inside the Premium Kit

The Kodak Ektar H35N Premium Kit includes everything you need to start shooting right away:

• Camera pouch and matching camera strap
• Waterproof case with hand strap
• Two color filters (Blue and Yellow)
• Cable release for long exposure photography

Film, battery, and tripod are not included, but the essentials for creative shooting are all here. The filters only fit the H35N model and not the original H35, giving this version added flexibility for creative lighting and color experimentation.

Key Features and Upgrades

The H35N improves on the original model with real functional upgrades that make a visible difference in your shots:

• Coated 22mm F11 (F8 with flash) glass lens for sharper, clearer images
• Bulb shutter for manual long exposures and night trails
• Built-in star filter to add four-beam flares on bright light sources
• Tripod mount for stability during long exposure shots
• Waterproof case that protects your camera up to 5 meters deep

Each of these features adds creative potential. The glass lens enhances clarity and contrast, while the bulb shutter allows you to experiment with night scenes and moving lights. The built-in star filter gives cityscapes and festivals a cinematic glow straight out of camera.

Designed for Travel and Adventure

The Premium Kit’s waterproof case makes it perfect for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re shooting near the ocean, at a pool party, or in a rain-soaked city, your H35N stays protected. The case can safely function up to 5 meters (16 feet) underwater, allowing you to capture scenes in clear, shallow waters.

Despite its durable design, the entire setup remains lightweight and portable. The camera itself weighs only 110g, while the waterproof case adds just 134g more. It’s built for mobility, creativity, and carefree shooting wherever your trip takes you.

Build Quality and Materials

The Kodak Ektar H35N uses a combination of ABS and aluminum for a sturdy yet lightweight feel. The camera dimensions are 110mm wide, 62mm tall, and 39mm deep, keeping it compact enough to fit into any small travel bag or pocket.

Inside the waterproof case, rubber seals and a secure lock mechanism protect the camera from water and dust. Kodak recommends rinsing the case with clean water after use to prevent salt corrosion and keeping the rubber ring free of sand or dirt for a proper seal.

Technical Specifications

• Film Format: 35mm (Half Frame)
• Film Transport: Manual Wind and Rewind
• Optical Lens: 22mm F11 (F8 with flash), 2-Element Lens (1 Glass, 1 Aspherical Acrylic)
• Shutter Speed: 1/100s, Bulb Mode
• Flash: Built-in
• Filter: Built-in Star Filter
• Power: 1 AAA Alkaline Battery
• Dimensions: 110 x 62 x 39 mm
• Weight: 110g (camera), 134.5g (case)
• Materials: ABS, Aluminum

Pros and Cons of the Kodak Ektar H35N Premium Kit

• ✅ Pro: Doubles your photo count per roll with half frame format
• ✅ Pro: Upgraded coated glass lens for sharper, higher-quality images
• ✅ Pro: Bulb shutter allows creative long exposure shots
• ✅ Pro: Built-in star filter adds beautiful four-beam flares to bright points
• ✅ Pro: Waterproof case enables underwater and outdoor use
• ✅ Pro: Lightweight, compact, and easy to carry on trips
• 🟡 Con: Requires manual film winding and rewinding
• 🟡 Con: Fixed focus limits flexibility for close-up shots
• 🟡 Con: Waterproof case must be handled carefully to prevent leaks

Who Should Buy the Kodak Ektar H35N

• Beginners in Film Photography: Looking for an affordable, easy-to-use camera that doubles film efficiency.
• Travel Photographers: Who want a lightweight setup for vacations, festivals, and outdoor trips.
• Creative Experimenters: Interested in bulb exposures, underwater photography, and color filter effects.
• Students and Young Shooters: Seeking a fun, low-cost way to learn analog photography.
• Casual Film Enthusiasts: Who want to enjoy film without the high cost or steep learning curve.

Final Verdict: Why the H35N Premium Kit Is the Smartest Film Buy in 2025

The Kodak Ektar H35N Premium Kit makes film photography accessible again. Its half frame format cuts costs in half, its upgraded lens and star filter add creative range, and its waterproof accessories make it ready for any adventure. For a camera this affordable, it delivers impressive versatility without sacrificing the joy of analog shooting.

If you’ve been priced out of film or just want a simple, fun, and portable camera, the H35N is your best entry point. It celebrates Kodak’s legacy of creativity and innovation while embracing the practical needs of modern photographers. The Kodak Ektar H35N proves that film photography isn’t dying. It’s evolving, and it’s never been this approachable.