Where to buy digital cameras & film cameras in Singapore
While many of us appreciate the art of film photography, we have to admit the prices we pay to maintain this hobby are getting more expensive. From the high costs of scanning our negatives to restocking our monthly film rolls, it only makes sense to find ways to save money on film photography.
Instead of spending an exorbitant amount on a vintage film camera, consider using digital and reusable film cameras instead. They are ideal for a budget, and produce equally satisfying photos. Here is a list of places you can buy affordable digital cameras and reusable cameras.
Table of Contents
- Where to buy digital cameras & film cameras in Singapore
- What’s the difference between digital cameras and film cameras?
- How to choose the right digital camera or reusable film camera
- How to avoid getting scammed
- Things to know before visiting these camera shops
- – Physical camera shops –
- 1. Digicam Depository
- 2. 8storeytree
- 3. Whampoa Colour Centre
- 4. Triple D Minilab Centre
- 5. Hands On Film
- 6. Standard Photo Studio
- – Online camera stores –
- 7. Shutter Up Film
- 8. Thrifted Clicks
- 9. osnaplab
What’s the difference between digital cameras and film cameras?
Before deciding on which camera fits you best, you first need to know the difference between digital and film cameras. Digital cameras don’t require the use of film, and the photos can instantly be transferred to a memory card. The quality of the photos will still give you that vintage look, but they are less grainy and lack the warm tones film photos have.
Regarding film cameras, the pictures you take will be manually captured on a film roll, which you have to develop to produce the pictures. The process is more tedious than digital cameras, but some of us would find the process and quality of the photos more rewarding.
The more affordable option for film cameras would be reusable film cameras. While these cameras are made of plastic, they last longer than disposable ones which come preloaded with film, but can only be used once. The quality of the photos is comparable to those really expensive cameras too.
How to choose the right digital camera or reusable film camera
If you are a beginner with no experience, we recommend you get digital cameras like the Casio Exilim EX-Z77 or the Nikon Coolpix L25, as they are compact and easy to use. Most of these vintage digital cameras have less than 10 megapixels, giving that nostalgic Y2K look.
If you are someone who enjoys the process of producing film photos or simply prefer your photos to be grainy, we suggest you start off with the Kodak Ektar H35 or the Ilford Sprite 35-II. These cameras will give you traditional 35mm-framed photos, and are simple point-and-shoots. You can read more about how to get your first film camera.
How to avoid getting scammed
As a word of advice, we recommend going down physically to a shop as you can test the camera before buying it. Remember to do quality checks such as ensuring the shutter is working, film can be loaded, and that the viewfinders are not cracked.
For online purchases, check that the website you’re browsing is trustworthy and read reviews from buyers on apps like Carousell as those will give you a good gauge of the cameras sold.
Things to know before visiting these camera shops
| Camera Shop | Good For | Opening hours |
| Digicam Depository | Digicams from $150 | Mon-Fri 2pm-9pm, Sat-Sun 12pm-9pm |
| 8storeytree | Kodak H35 film cameras at $65 | Mon-Fri 11am-4pm (Closed on Sat & Sun) |
| Whampoa Colour Centre | Cheap film rolls & disposable cameras under $20 | Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat 11am-7.30pm (Closed on Wed & Sun) |
| Triple D Minilab Centre | Unique film rolls such as Cinestill available | Mon-Sat 10.30am-7pm (Closed on Sun) |
| Hands On Film | Custom disposable camera made from upcycled single-use cameras | 11am-7pm, Daily |
| Standard Photo | Photo booths & film roll blind boxes | Depends on branch |
| Shutter Up Film | Waterproof cased film cameras at $28 | *Website-based |
| Thrifted Clicks | Newbie digicams at $48 | *Telegram-based |
| osnaplab | Screenless digicams | *Instagram-based |
– Physical camera shops –
1. Digicam Depository
Digicams from $150
Image credit: @digicam.depository via Instagram
Digicam Depository has been making a name for itself recently with a 4.9 star rating across nearly 1,800 Google reviews. The cosy shop, located amidst the hipster thrift stores at Haji Lane, has over 200 compact-sized digital cameras in its inventory.
You’ll also be in good hands, as the camera store is ran by a Singaporean couple who does the quality checks and can fix your malfunctioning cameras.
@wekaypoh We found a digicam treasure trove and their owners (in their twenties!!!) 🥹 Bonus: They have the funniest stories lol #sgnews #digicamsg #thrifting #wdyd #youth #wekaypoh @Digicam Depository
Most cameras here are pre-loved, with prices starting from $150. Your options won’t be limited as you can browse through brands such as OIympus, Sony, Nikon, and Vivicam.
Image credit: The Digicam Depository via Google Maps
Every purchase of a camera comes with a 14-day warranty, a memory card, and a charger. Just in case your camera isn’t working, you can simply bring it back to them within that 2-week window.
The Digicam Depository review: “Bought the cutest camera today all thanks to staff Shannon at the counter! She was so sweet and patient in explaining all the little details to me, showing me how everything works and suggesting cameras that would suit me best!” – jarjar via Google
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2. 8storeytree
Kodak H35 film cameras at $65
Image credit: @8storeytree via Instagram
8storeytree has been around since 2007, and they have everything you need from affordable 35mm film cameras to aesthetic accessories. Located at Balestier Road, you can find cameras from brands like Kodak, Yashica, and Ilford.
If you’re visiting their outlet to browse, do note that you’ll have to make an appointment, and the store only accepts cash and PayNow payments.
Image credit: 8storeytree
A reusable camera would cost between $40 and $70, with the popular Kodak Ektar H35 35mm cameras ($65) being stocked here. You will discover film rolls from $6 and even vintage vinyls as you roam around in this vibey space.
Image credit: 8storeytree
If you don’t have the time to visit their store, you can browse through the catalogue on their website. Every product listed has ample photos and information given, where accessories relevant to your purchase will even be suggested to you before checkout.
8storeytree review: “Great cozy place at it’s new location, love the space! very helpful and friendly service as well. They offer a wide range of films (35/120) and interesting memorabilia! Made a few purchases so far and very satisfied with the experiences!” – Joel Kang via Google
3. Whampoa Colour Centre
Cheap film rolls & disposable cameras under $20
Whampoa Colour Centre is a film processing shop that has served Singaporean film enthusiasts for generations since the 80s. Situated within a brisk 5-minute walk from Shaw Plaza, this shop is also a popular photo-taking spot as it looks like it came out of a Wong Kar Wai film.
Image credit: Whampoa Colour Centre via Google Maps
Although they specialise in film developing, you can find reusable and disposable cameras here for less than $30. The price for film rolls here are cheaper than most other places, with Kodak Colorplus 200 being available at $13/roll and Kodak Gold at $14/roll.
Image credit: @sick3six via Instagram
In terms of experience, you won’t have to worry if you’re a beginner, as the friendly uncle here will guide you in buying and using film cameras.
Whampoa Colour Centre review: “Loveeeeee the swiftness of their service when it comes to developing films, always my go to and my first place to develop ever since starting out film photography! Yesterday I went to develop 2 film rolls and got it back after 1 hour!” – Amanda Lim via Google
4. Triple D Minilab Centre
Unique film rolls such as Cinestill available
Image credit: remi k via Google Maps
While Bugis is known for its famous Bugis Street filled with food stalls and souvenir shops, there are also hidden gems such as Triple D MiniLab Centre. Apart from film developing services from $10.50/roll, the photo lab tucked away at Burlington Square also sells reusable and disposable film cameras.
Image credit: Triple D Minilab Centre via Google Maps
You will mostly find single-use cameras here such as the Kodak Funsaver which has a manual film advance and comes with a 27-exposure film roll built in. The shop also sells reusable Kodak M35 cameras, but they are slightly more expensive.
Image credit: Triple D Minilab Centre via Google Maps
Their shelves are stocked with traditional film rolls from Kodak and Fujifilm, as well as lesser-known brands like Cinestill and Candido if you want something different. There’s even a machine here for you to edit photos and print them out. Just don’t forget to bring your thumbdrive.
If you’re here to develop your film rolls, drop it off before 2pm to get your photos back by 5pm-7pm on the same day. You can also top up $2.50 per roll to have the scans ready within 1 hour.
You can find out more about their products and services on their Instagram.
Triple D Minilab Centre review: “Visited this place for their films as there are so many variety of films compared to other places. However, the male staff is quite unfriendly which can be a bit of an unpleasant experience.” – LameCarrot via Google
5. Hands On Film
Custom disposable camera made from upcycled cameras
Image credit: Torn Marom via Google Maps
For the camera collectors out there, you won’t want to miss out on Hands On Film. As you step into the store, you will see rows of vintage cameras stacked on top of each other amidst chic neon lights, and old camera advertorial posters. The store also has a 4.9 star rating over 600 Google reviews, with many customers praising the store’s curation of obscure film and cameras.
Image credit: Daryl via Google Maps
The store sells beginner-friendly disposable cameras from Kodak and Fujifilm, and also rare collaboration models such as Pokémon and Mickey Mouse-themed cameras. These rare cameras are hard to find these days as they are mostly dead stock.
Image credit: @handsonfilm via Instagram
You’ll want to get your hands on the shop’s very own custom-designed disposable camera made from upcycled single-use cameras. The camera comes preloaded with their Summer 400 film, a pouch and stickers, so it’s very much a collector’s item.
Hands On Film review: “All you analogue camera needs. lovely little store. recomend popping by if youre into analogue cameras. picked up some obscure film and second hand filters i didnt know i was looking for. were out of stock of the 1600 film unfortunately.” – Andre Medina via Google
6. Standard Photo Studio
Over 2,000 5-star Google reviews
Image credit: Oscar Wan via Google Maps
If you’re looking for a shop to get all your photo and printing needs, head down to Standard Photo Studio in Balestier. Film camera lovers can get their next camera here, with options like the Yashica Sanrio Disposable 35mm camera or the Kodak M38 Refillable Film Camera on sale.
Image credit: Standard Photo
Let Standard Photo Studio decide the vibes for your next set of snaps too. They’ve joined the blind box hype with their Mystery Film at $14.90, where you could get film rolls like the Kodak Gold 200 or Fujifilm Speed 200.
Add film processing to the mix and get their Premium Mystery Film ($25) to get a free film processing ticket together with your film rolls. Lucky customers can even get a free film camera from these blind boxes.
Standard Photo Studio also boasts over 2,000 5-star reviews on Google, with many patrons complimenting the studio’s aesthetics and wide variety of props.
Standard Photo Studio review: “A super interesting hidden gem! They offer a wide range of services including photo booth and film processing. I’ve sent in my film twice and was impressed both times – the turnaround was just 1 to 2 days, and the photos came back neatly organized.” – Cindy Jiang via Google
Find a Standard Photo outlet near you.
(Closed) Retronalogue
Retronalogue has closed.
– Online camera stores –
7. Shutter Up Film
Waterproof cased film cameras at $28
Image credit: @shutterup.film via Instagram
Shutter Up Film started out as a business on IG, and is now an online store selling disposable film cameras from Kodak and Fujifilm. You can get a Kodak M35 reusable camera for $31.90 here.
Their best-selling camera is their own Shutter Up 35mm Film Camera ($28), a manual camera enclosed in a water-proof case that can also be bought in bundled sets with film rolls included. If you like custom things, their Decoden DIY Kit ($49) comes with 10-15 charms you can decorate your camera with. There are 2 charm colours to choose from, and for the cameras, a total of 14 colours and patterns are available.
Image credit: @shutterup.film via Instagram
Other than cameras, the shop also sells cute enamel pins, sticker sets, and bead straps that are film camera-themed. These accessories are all custom-made by Shutter Up Film.
Orders over $50 are eligible for free delivery, while orders above $80 will also get a free enamel pin (worth $14.90) with each order.
8. Thrifted Clicks
Newbie digicams at $48
Image credit: @thriftedclicks via Instagram
Thrifted Clicks is a Telegram-based store dealing in second-hand digital cameras and camcorders. Some brands that make regular appearances on their store include Sony, Canon, and Panasonic. Each camera is also carefully packed with accessories like an SD card, battery, charger, cleaning cloth, camera strap and a 1-week warranty.
Image credit: Thrifted Clicks via Instagram
If you’re not too particular about brands, Thrifted Clicks also offers its own cameras for sale. Newer photographers can opt for their Newbie Digicam at $48, which comes with a built-in battery, charging cable, and micro SD memory card to easily get started. You can also get their Mini Digi for $38, a more affordable dupe of the Kodak Charmera.
These are available on sale whenever they have pop-ups, which are announced on their Telegram channel and Instagram page.
9. osnaplab
Screenless digicams
Image credit: @osnaplab via Instagram
Photographers looking for an affordable but more unique digital camera can turn to osnaplab. This Instagram-based shop offers its own digital camera, the oSnap, which is Singapore’s first screenless digital camera. The oSnap also comes with 3 filters included, so you can easily switch your pictures’ vibes for each occasion.
You can get an oSnap for $88, with a USB Type-C cable, SD card, and tracked shipping included in the price, making this a very affordable choice.
(Temporarily closed) Film Thrills
Minolta film cameras under $100
Image credit: @filmthrills_ via Instagram
Filmthrills is an Instagram-based store that lists film cameras for sale under different sets. Each set has 9-10 cameras you can choose from, with the price going from $80-$190. The cameras sold here are pre-loved, ranging from Minoltas to Fuji Zoom cameras.
For each purchase, you will get a 3-month warranty where you can do a 1-to-1 exchange for another camera of equal value if the one you ordered is faulty.
Their IG page is a place to get valuable information about vintage cameras as well, with guides on the types of film rolls, batteries, cameras, and places to get film developed listed in their story highlights.
(Closed) Katong Camera
Katong Camera has closed.
Check out these affordable places to buy vintage cameras
It’s often hard to find information on places to buy vintage cameras in Singapore and decide if they are trustworthy in terms of quality. Instead of depending on Reddit or sifting through Google reviews, we have done the work for you in compiling the places on this list. So, head down to one of these shops, there’s no better time to kickstart a new hobby than now.
For more photography-related articles:
- Photographs you can take in Singapore to bluff that you’re on vacation
- Photo printing stores in Singapore
- Street photography tips
Cover image adapted from: @8storeytree, @handsonfilm, @osnaplab via Instagram
Originally published on 23rd August 2024. Last updated by Andrea Chandra Putri on 20th February 2026.