Half Frame, Full Hype: The Camera Houses Latest Obsession
Half-frame film photography has quickly become my favourite type of film photography - perfect for capturing road trips and days out with friends. Providing you with the ability to capture double the shots and double the memories. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of camera houses reviving and producing a modern version of the half-frame film camera. While a few modern full-frame camera's have been created like the Escura Snap S35- these modern SLR’s are sparse compared to the growing list of modern half-frame releases. From the Pentax 17, to the Kodak Ektar, and the most recent 2025 release, the Alfie Typoch. Half-frame cameras have become Camera House’s modern favourite. So it begs the question - why half-frame?
before we get into it, if you are new to film photography, let us do a quick recap on what a half-frame film camera is.
A half-frame camera, in short, is a film camera that captures two exposures on a single standard 35mm film frame - essentially doubling the number of photos per roll. Instead of one photo, you get two. Each image measures 18mm x 24mm because of this, when you shoot while holding the camera in a typical upright position, your photos will turn out vertical rather than landscape. So, if you want a landscape photo, you’ll need to rotate the camera vertically, as if you were taking a portrait shot with a normal camera - slightly confusing, I know!
What is so good about a half-frame?
Half-frame cameras offer a perfect way for returning film lovers to experience a fresh style of analogue photography while providing newcomers with a fun, economical introduction to the medium. While the complexities of cameras can vary from camera to camera, half-frame models generally function much like their point-and-shoot cousins - just click the button and let the camera handle the rest. From a cost perspective, half-frame cameras are long-term efficient. Since they double the number of exposures per roll, you get 72 shots instead of the usual 36 images. This means you get double the amount of photos for the price of one. But beyond the cost-saving benefits, the main selling point of a half-frame camera lies in the visual storytelling. Contrasting images are forced into conversation by being placed next to each other. Half-frame cameras take the pressure off, not wanting to waste any exposures. It invites you to look at what you would consider a ‘throw-away’ picture and see it in a new light.
Why are companies leaning towards half-frame and not reinventing and reproducing a full-frame camera?
One reason could be the sheer number of vintage full-frame film cameras that are already available on the market, just take a look at our shop. Another factor could link to the complexity of full-frame camera production. Designing a modern full-frame camera, featuring interchangeable lenses, and developing mechanics is far more demanding than producing a compact, fixed-focus lens of a half-frame camera. Finally, a key consideration is the company's target audience. To cater to a mass audience and consider all levels of photographers. Learning the complexities of an SLR is far more intimidating than clicking a button on a point-and-shoot. Half-frame film camera matches the quote of being accessible to beginners, but also offers a fresh, creative and aesthetic twist that even seasoned photographers can appreciate.
What are some of our favourite half-frame film cameras?
Pentax 17
After trying this camera on a couple of trips, it has quickly grown to be one of my go-to cameras, especially for capturing personal memories. Although it can be viewed as on the pricer side, this is certainly warranted for its durability, luxurious feel and high-quality lens that produces retro but clean and crisp images.
We have an extensive collection of Pentax 17, which are customised in different colours and come with an exclusive Vintage Camera Hut T-shirt.
To find the Pentax 17 [click here]
Alfie Tych
The Alfie Tych is the newest 2025 release half-frame film camera that is kitted out with advance technology despite its miniature size. Comes in two variations: the classic Alfie Tych and the Alfie Tych Premium +. Both cameras feature a range of high-quality lens placed on a rotary lens board to get creative with, rechargeable via a USB-C charging cable, making it easy to charge anywhere and features both an automatic and manual mode.
To find more information and specifications on the Alfie Tych [click here].
Will you jump on the Half-frame film camera trend? You can find a variety of vintage and new 35mm half-frame film cameras on our website [here].