Olympus OM-2 Black
A 35mm film camera from approx. 1977
About
My baby. This was a Christmas present to myself in 2025 and marked my return to film. It is jet black, looks like new, works like new, and is perfection. I haven't checked the production code, but the serial number places this one at almost the exact same age as me, but unlike me it has no stiffness and no wear and tear.
Black is the winner for both the cool factor and because in the 1970s, street photographers and conflict journalists wanted to blend into the shadows. Chrome reflected streetlights and drew unwanted attention; the matte black enamel absorbed light, making the camera incredibly low-profile.
Unlike the OM-1 the OM-2 is heavily electronic (but can operate in fully manual mode even without batteries). It works flawlessly as an aperture priority camera, which is my favourite way to shoot.
Source
Purchased on eBay from a reputable Dutch camera seller with a full CLA for €270 in Dec 2025.
Selected images from Olympus OM-2 Black
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Read more: George's Quay, Dundalk
George's Quay, Dundalk
I purchased a new (to me) Olympus OM2n on eBay and ran a roll of Kodak Gold 200 through it to test it. I loved the colours and shapes in this photo...Read more -
Read more: The Back Alleys of Dundalk
The Back Alleys of Dundalk
Dundalk is a colourful and well maintained town, but if you look in the right places it doesn't take long to find some gritty scenes that lend themselves to a gritty black and white film.
Read more -
Read more: Belfast City Hall in February
Belfast City Hall in February
These photos were taken on Ilford Type-517. Only my fourth roll of B+W film ever. Type – 517 was the designation given to 400ft bulk reels intended...Read more -
Read more: Slieve Donard on Tri-X
Slieve Donard on Tri-X
I love the railway architecture of the Slieve Donard Hotel in County Down. Kodak Tri-X with a deep red filter turned it all very dramatic on this m...Read more -
Read more: Belfast on Tri-X - River House
Belfast on Tri-X - River House
First roll of Tri-X since the 90s. It feels like coming home.Read more
Want to Learn More?
I am happy to share whatever I know about my range of film cameras. I try to attend Dún Dealgan Analogue Project on the second Monday of every month in Creative Spark Downtown Dundalk, I will gladly answer questions on my own Instagram, and there are lots of other analogue resources in Ireland such as Ireland Analogue.