Ricoh FF-1
Ricoh FF-1 introduced in 1978 is a nice pocket size point and shoot. Similar to the Minox 35 ML with program or manual aperture and automatic shutter speed. Focus is zone .9 m to infinity.
Shooting the FF-1 is very much like the Minox 35 or similar little zone focus cameras. There is a red light in the viewfinder to indicate low light and long exposer time. The lens door opens best when you use the tabs on the side. Because I am use to the Minox, which opens best from the top, I fumbled with this every time. Not a dig on the camera, just my habits. The door retracts and covers the lens but not the viewfinder. So unlike the Minox you can compose without extending the lens. Not sure that you need to but you can.
My example is well used but not in bad shape. The only issue is there is lots of junk in the viewfinder, does not impact the image but make me want a shower after using it.
My Take:
The FF-1 has a nice feel. It is bigger than the Minox 35s but feels more substantial. Still a nice pocket size and same simple use. Image quality was good. Would I pick the FF-1 over a Minox 35? Maybe. I love the Minox 35, but the FF-1 is a solid alternative. We may have a challenger for pocket champ.
Lens: fixed Color Rikenon 1:2.8 35mm
Film: Fujicolor Superia X-TRA 400
