I wasn’t expecting to fall so hard for the Pentax 17, but it quickly became my go-to camera this year. Compact, reliable, and with a unique charm that blends perfectly with my style of shooting film.

What I love most about this little half-frame camera is how it invites experimentation. The half-frame format means double the shots per roll, and its lightweight build encourages me to carry it everywhere. It’s the kind of camera that feels like an old friend in your bag.
The simple controls and solid lens deliver images with beautiful contrast and subtle softness — perfect for capturing those quiet, moody moments I’m drawn to. If you want a camera that pushes you to see differently, the Pentax 17 is worth every penny.
For a deeper dive, check out my full review on Substack.