XA

Just Because

You guys should know by now that I love giving things away around here. I enjoy giving back to those who support me with this site and this year I found another fun thing or two to give away. This time around I decided to give away an Olympus XA I bought while out traveling this year. For those of you who aren’t familiar these are amazing, tiny little rangefinders and while they take a little getting used to because you are manually focusing on such a tiny camera’s split focus style viewfinder they will reward you with some fantastic film images. They were manufactured in the early 80s so most copies you find out there have a couple of quirks and this one is not alone.

The light seals/foam along the back door of the camera are gummy and worn out. I will clean out the gunk for you before I send it but it will be your responsibility to replace these seals if you come across any light leaks while using the camera. It is not a camera known for having problems with light leaks so you may be alright but I wanted to point this out for anyone interested in tossing their name into the hat.

Also, in order to get a good exposure you will need to set your ISO at least one stop brighter, or perhaps even two if you like a nice bright feel. This is according to my own tests of the meter that is. I know film is trickier to work with these days so please only enter to win this camera if you know you will put it to good use. I would hate to see it go to someone and have it simply sit on a shelf for the rest of its life.

So, are you interested in this slightly flawed but wonderful little camera? Simply leave a comment below mentioning you would like the camera and I will add those of you who are interested into a drawing and see who the lucky photographer will be.

But wait, theres more! I have decided to also give away an 8.5×11 Fine Art print from my latest endeavor. Should you be interested in winning one of these limited prints simply hop down to the comment section below and let me know! I will pick one winner from all of the entries.

I will pick a winner on December 26th and be in touch if you are the lucky one!

Update: You guys are amazing, you know that right? Thanks so much for the unexpected kind words among the comments below, I have chosen the winners and they know who they are at this point. I really do love giving things away from time to time so I’m sure those of you who missed out here will have another chance somewhere down the line. Thanks again. 

Comments

  1. Ryan - December 25, 2013 at 9:44 pm

    Hi John,

    I would love to win the camera! I appreciate all your hard work and dedication in providing us with awesome wallpapers and your entries regarding life in general… very thoughtful & inspirational!! Happy Holidays and Wishing you and your loved ones only the best – Ryan

  2. Gonul - December 25, 2013 at 10:58 pm

    Hi John, This little camera reminds me of my first Olympus from lives ago. Your writings and passion about photography and cameras-especially, those using film, have been making me yearn for that camera… I’d definitely put it to use and, certainly enjoy having one of your prints.
    Win or no win, keep up your passion alive, have a happy entry to 2014. My best wishes to you and to Young Doo in the year to come.

  3. Kyle - December 26, 2013 at 12:14 am

    Hi John,

    Hopefully I haven’t missed the cut-off.
    Regardless, I just want to say a belated merry Christmas and happy new year. Through the years your site has had a huge impact on me not only in respect to my interested in photography, but my general outlook on life and I’m very thankful for that.
    I’m looking forward to what you have in store for 2014.
    All the best.

  4. Anh - December 26, 2013 at 2:51 am

    I know I wouldn’t get much out of the camera, seeing myself sitting at the working office everyday. But I would love to have a print. Definitely can find it a spot in my living room :).

    Thank you and Merry Christmas!!!

    Anh

  5. Chris - December 26, 2013 at 4:12 am

    Wish I could have these fine prints hanging in my room :)

  6. Roland Peelen - December 26, 2013 at 4:43 am

    Just saw this! Hopefully still on time!

  7. Matthew Spear - December 26, 2013 at 5:16 am

    I’d love to be entered in for the camera!

    Thanks,

    Matt

  8. J - December 26, 2013 at 10:48 am

    I’d be interested in the camera or the print…

  9. Andrew - December 26, 2013 at 4:31 pm

    I’d be interested in either. Thanks for including one of suggestions in the iOS 7 parallax pack. Cheers!

  10. James - December 26, 2013 at 6:15 pm

    I would absolutely love to win the print. Thanks John for such an awesome giveaway!

  11. Dakota - December 28, 2013 at 4:06 am

    I would fancy a print, Sir John! Much obliged :)

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