YASHICA® T

This is the first of the almighty T series cameras that Kyocera®/Yashica® produced in the mid 80’s that features a meritorious Carl Zeiss® Tessar lens. The camera design runs parallel with what was being mass produced at the time but ahead of the curve when it comes to function and form. Chunky just like your favorite dad sneakers but not nearly as comfy. Let’s face it, contemporarily speaking, this machine wasn’t built for comfort, it was designed to produce sharp contrasty images that would later evolve into the gold standard for any fashion editorial that resonated with the counter-culture youth. 


I never had any desire to own this particular camera but it just so happened that it came in a packaged deal from my guy in Japan. I figured why not take it for a spin and to see how she handles. The first thing that I noticed was just how clunky the plastic body felt. I realize the technology that was being initiated was not nearly where it is now and that there was a limit to how small parts could be produced. I mean, it really shows how much industrial design has evolved and championed over the years. Nowadays we carry a device in our pocket that serves as a mobile office, chauffeur, life coach, chef service, matchmaker, movie production, photography studio and a full blown mass-publication outlet. Honestly, if my phone knew how to scratch my back at night I think I would have spent the rest of my days in self-isolation way before the pandemic. 


Anyway, the camera, back to the camera. Aside from the chunky frame and the AA batteries only lasting for a few days due to the aged circuitboards, I’d say it’s a pretty good point and shoot that renders noteworthy results. It’s definitely not a dependable first choice if this is going to be used as your primary point and shoot due to its nearly forty year lifespan. Quite frankly I found it to be a bit irritating when I would frame a good shot only to find the shutter unresponsive. My advice, if you come across one for a reasonable price, jump on it but always pack fresh batteries. 


-Danny