The Olympus AZ-4 Zoom is a 35mm fixed-lens SLR camera introduced in 1989.

Overview

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The camera is almost identical to the Ricoh Mirai, except it does not have a remote control socket and uses different batteries. It was one of the earliest examples of a Superzoom lens,[1] with an ability to zoom from 35 to 135mm.[2] The zoom lens moves slowly compared to modern 35mm cameras, and the autofocus is slower and less reliable.[3] However, the images it can achieve are of a very high standard particularly in terms of sharpness.

It has the following features usually only found on SLR cameras:

It has the following features usually only found on compact cameras:

It also has the following features

  • LCD
  • Beeps when autofocus locks
  • Tripod socket

Some models use 2 123 size lithium batteries. The version marketed by Ricoh can accept a large lithium battery or four AAA size batteries. There is also a Quartz date model, and the back on a regular model can be removed and replaced with a data back.

Trivia

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The camera appeared in the 1989 Batman film.[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b Aitchison, James (August 16, 2015). "The 10 Weirdest Cameras of All Time". USA Today. Retrieved 2024-01-25.
  2. ^ Tellet, David (2022-08-15). "Ricoh Mirai & Olympus AZ-4 Zoom Review - Fraternal Twins". 35mmc. Retrieved 2024-01-25.
  3. ^ Brustofski, Connor (2020-10-23). "Who Knows What the Future Holds - Olympus AZ-4 / Ricoh Mirai Review". Casual Photophile. Retrieved 2024-01-25.