SnapsbyTK

Back in July 2022, I was walking past my local camera shop when something in the window stopped me in my tracks — an Olympus OM-10. Instantly, I was transported back to the mid-90s, when I was studying photography and our course tutor handed me a similar model to learn on. The nostalgia hit hard… and, naturally, I couldn’t resist buying it.

It was in fantastic condition, complete with the original strap and case, plus a 50mm f/1.8 prime lens. For a camera of its age, it felt like a real time capsule. Since bringing it home, I’ve shot around ten rolls of film through it with very few problems — and those were mostly down to user error rather than the camera itself.

However, the most recent roll back from the lab told a different story. Eight of the negatives had noticeable dark patches running down the right-hand side. After reaching out on social media for advice, I received a helpful reply, who suggested it might be a shutter curtain issue. A visit to my local camera store confirmed the diagnosis: the shutter curtain is indeed the culprit.

The repair cost? Around £125 – £150 — more than double what I originally paid for the camera.

So now I’m left with the question: is it worth repairing for the love of the camera and the memories it holds, or is this where the story ends for my OM-10?

Please let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Images with the Curtain Issue