If you've stumbled across an old Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure camera in your attic or at a garage sale, you might be wondering what you've got on your hands. This little gem from the 1980s represents an interesting chapter in photography history when cameras were starting to get smarter but hadn't yet gone fully digital.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know about this classic point-and-shoot camera. Whether you're a collector, a film photography enthusiast, or just curious about what your grandparents used to capture family memories, this guide will help you understand what makes the Argus M5700D special.
What Exactly Is the Argus M5700D Auto Focus/Program Exposure?
The Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure is a 35mm film camera that came out during the mid-1980s boom of automatic cameras. Back then, camera makers were racing to make photography easier for everyday people. You didn't need to be a professional to get decent shots anymore.
This camera sits in that sweet spot between fully manual cameras that required technical knowledge and the modern digital cameras we use today. The "auto focus" part means the camera handles focusing for you, while "program exposure" means it automatically sets both the shutter speed and aperture based on available light.
Argus, the company behind this camera, had been around since the 1930s. They were actually an American company based in Michigan, which made them somewhat unique in an industry dominated by Japanese manufacturers. The M5700D was part of their later lineup when they were trying to compete in the automatic camera market.
The camera typically came with a 35mm f/2.8 lens, which is pretty standard for point-and-shoot cameras of that era. It's compact enough to carry around without much hassle, making it perfect for family gatherings, vacations, and everyday photography.
Understanding the Auto Focus System
The auto focus feature on the Argus M5700D was pretty advanced for its time. Instead of twisting a focus ring like on older cameras, you just point and shoot. The camera uses an infrared system to measure the distance between you and your subject.
Here's how it works in simple terms. The camera sends out an invisible infrared beam that bounces off your subject and comes back. By measuring how long this takes, the camera figures out the distance and adjusts the lens accordingly. It all happens in a fraction of a second.
This system works great for subjects between about 3 feet and 15 feet away. That covers most typical photography situations like portraits, group shots, and street photography. However, it does have some limitations. The auto focus can struggle with very reflective surfaces like mirrors or windows. It also doesn't work well through glass, so forget about taking sharp photos through a car window.
One quirk worth mentioning is that the auto focus on the Argus M5700D locks onto whatever is in the center of your frame. So if you want to photograph something off-center, you need to use a technique called "focus and recompose." Point the camera at your subject, press the shutter button halfway to lock focus, then move the camera to reframe your shot before pressing all the way down.
Program Exposure Mode Explained
Program exposure is where the Argus M5700D really shows its smarts. This feature automatically balances shutter speed and aperture to give you a properly exposed photo without you having to think about it.
Here's what's happening behind the scenes. The camera has a light meter that measures how bright the scene is. Based on that reading and the speed of film you've loaded, it picks the best combination of shutter speed and aperture. The goal is to let in just the right amount of light so your photo isn't too dark or too bright.
For example, in bright sunlight the camera might select a fast shutter speed like 1/500th of a second with a smaller aperture like f/8. In dimmer conditions, it might slow down to 1/60th and open up to f/2.8. The program exposure algorithm tries to keep you from getting blurry photos from camera shake while also maximizing image quality.
The beauty of this system is that it removes a lot of the technical burden from photography. You don't need to understand exposure triangles or memorize the sunny 16 rule. Just load your film, point the camera, and trust the automation. For casual photographers in the 1980s, this was revolutionary stuff.
Key Features That Made It Popular
The Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure packed several features that made it attractive to buyers back in the day:
- Built-in flash that pops up automatically in low light situations
- Self-timer for group photos where you want to include yourself
- Motorized film advance so you don't have to manually wind between shots
- DX coding reader that automatically detects what speed film you've loaded
- Red-eye reduction feature on some models
- LCD display showing frame counter and other basic info
The built-in flash deserves special mention. It's not particularly powerful by modern standards, but it gets the job done for casual indoor photography. The camera decides when you need flash based on available light. In very dark conditions, it won't even let you take a photo without flash because the image would be too blurry from the slow shutter speed required.
The motorized film advance was still somewhat fancy in the mid-80s. Earlier point-and-shoot cameras required you to manually advance the film with a lever after each shot. With the M5700D, you just keep pressing the shutter button and the camera handles the rest.
Loading and Using Film
Getting started with the Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure is straightforward once you understand the basics of film loading. You'll need to pick up some 35mm film, which is still available today through specialty photography stores and online retailers.
Film comes in different speeds, measured in ISO numbers. ISO 100 or 200 works great in bright outdoor conditions. ISO 400 is more versatile and handles indoor lighting better. The DX coding on modern film cassettes lets the camera automatically detect the film speed, though some older films might not have this coding.
To load the film, open the back of the camera by sliding the latch on the side. Pull out the film canister and drop in your new roll. Pull the film leader across to the take-up spool and make sure it catches. Close the back and the camera will automatically advance to the first frame.
The frame counter on top of the camera tells you how many shots you've taken. Most 35mm film comes in 24 or 36 exposure rolls. When you reach the end, the camera will stop advancing. You'll need to rewind the film back into its canister before opening the camera. There's usually a rewind button on the bottom and a crank on top for this.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
Like any camera that's pushing 40 years old, the Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure can develop some problems. The good news is that many issues are fixable without too much trouble.
Battery problems are probably the most common issue. These cameras typically use AA batteries or a specialized battery pack. If your camera won't turn on or seems dead, start by trying fresh batteries. Check the battery compartment for corrosion, which looks like white or green crusty stuff. You can clean mild corrosion with a cotton swab and white vinegar.
Sticky mechanisms happen when cameras sit unused for years. The film advance might jam or the shutter could stick. Sometimes you can work these loose by repeatedly pressing buttons and advancing film without actually having film loaded. Other times, you might need a professional cleaning.
Auto focus failures can occur if the infrared window gets dirty or scratched. This little window is usually near the lens. Clean it gently with a microfiber cloth. If the auto focus still doesn't work, the internal mechanisms might need service.
Flash issues are also fairly common. The flash might not fire, or it might fire every time even in bright light. This often indicates problems with the light meter or flash circuitry. These repairs are trickier and might require a technician who specializes in vintage cameras.
Getting the Best Results
Even with all its automatic features, you can still mess up photos with the Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure if you're not careful. Here are some tips for getting great results:
Keep the camera steady when shooting. Even though the camera picks appropriate shutter speeds, you can still get blur if you move while taking the photo. Hold the camera with both hands and press the shutter button gently rather than jabbing at it.
Pay attention to lighting conditions. The program exposure works well in most situations, but it can struggle with very high contrast scenes. If you're photographing someone with a bright sky behind them, the camera might expose for the sky and make your subject too dark.
Get close to your subject when possible. The lens on the M5700D isn't a zoom, so you need to physically move closer or farther to frame your shot. Many beginning photographers stand too far away, making their subjects look small and distant.
Remember that film costs money to buy and develop. Unlike digital cameras where you can take hundreds of throwaway shots, film photography encourages you to be more thoughtful. Take your time composing each shot.
Comparing to Modern Cameras
Looking at the Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure from today's perspective is interesting. In some ways, it's shockingly limited compared to even the cheapest smartphone camera. But in other ways, it offers an experience that digital can't quite replicate.
What modern cameras do better:
- Instant preview of your photos
- Unlimited shots without changing film
- Much better low light performance
- Video recording capability
- Easy sharing and editing
- More sophisticated auto focus systems
What the M5700D offers:
- The unique look of film photography
- A deliberate, thoughtful shooting process
- No batteries needed for the actual exposure (motor functions need power)
- Durability and mechanical simplicity
- Tangible physical prints
The film look is what draws many people back to cameras like the M5700D. Film has a certain quality that digital tries to replicate but never quite matches. The grain structure, color rendition, and dynamic range create images with character.
The Collectability Factor
Is the Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure worth anything to collectors? The honest answer is not much in most cases. You can typically find these cameras at thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces for anywhere from $10 to $50 depending on condition.
They're not rare or particularly sought after compared to more famous cameras from Canon, Nikon, or Olympus. Argus as a brand doesn't command the same collector premiums. However, that actually makes the M5700D a great entry point if you're interested in film photography without spending much money.
The value is more in its usability than its collectability. If you've got one that works properly, you've got a perfectly functional tool for exploring film photography. That's worth more than whatever price tag someone might put on it.
Some collectors do focus on Argus cameras specifically, especially earlier models from the company's heyday. The M5700D would be a later addition to such a collection, representing the company's final attempts to stay relevant in a changing market.
Where Film Photography Stands Today
You might wonder why anyone would bother with a camera like the Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure in 2025 when we all have powerful cameras in our pockets. The answer is that film photography has experienced a genuine revival among younger photographers and artists.
Film forces you to slow down and think about each shot. You can't just snap 50 photos and pick the best one later. This constraint encourages more intentional photography. Many people find this process more satisfying than the instant gratification of digital.
Film labs still exist in most major cities, and you can also mail your film to labs that specialize in developing and scanning. Some photographers even develop their own film at home, which adds another creative dimension to the hobby.
The look of film remains distinctive enough that many digital photographers use filters and editing techniques to try mimicking it. Why not just shoot actual film if you want that aesthetic? Cameras like the M5700D make it accessible and affordable.
As our blog often discusses, vintage technology has a way of remaining relevant even as newer options emerge. There's value in understanding and appreciating how things used to work.
Maintenance and Care Tips
If you want your Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure to keep working, some basic maintenance goes a long way. These cameras are pretty robust, but they do need occasional attention.
Store the camera in a dry place away from extreme temperatures. Moisture is the enemy of electronics and mechanical parts. If you live in a humid climate, consider using silica gel packets in your camera bag.
Remove batteries if you're not planning to use the camera for a while. Batteries can leak over time and cause serious damage. Check batteries periodically even when the camera is in storage.
Keep the lens clean but be gentle about it. Use a proper lens cleaning cloth rather than your shirt or a paper towel. Blow dust off before wiping to avoid scratching the lens coating.
Run a test roll through the camera once a year if you're storing it long-term. This keeps the mechanisms moving and helps you catch problems before they get worse. Use cheap film for these test rolls or even try to find expired film that costs less.
Key Takeaways
- The Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure is a 35mm film camera from the 1980s with automatic focus and exposure features
- Its infrared auto focus system works well for most typical photography between 3 and 15 feet
- Program exposure mode automatically balances shutter speed and aperture for proper exposure
- The camera includes convenient features like built-in flash, motorized film advance, and DX film speed detection
- Common problems include battery issues, sticky mechanisms, and auto focus failures
- Film photography with cameras like this offers a unique aesthetic and more thoughtful shooting process
- The M5700D has limited collector value but makes an affordable entry into film photography
- Proper storage and occasional use helps keep these vintage cameras functional
Finding Film and Development Services
One question people always ask about using the Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure is where to get film and how to develop it. The good news is that film photography infrastructure still exists, though it's smaller than it used to be.
You can buy film from several sources. Local camera shops that specialize in film photography usually stock various film types. Big retailers like B&H Photo and Adorama sell film online and ship it to you. Some drugstores still carry basic consumer film, though selection is limited.
Popular film brands include Kodak, Fujifilm, and Ilford. For color prints, Kodak Gold and ColorPlus are affordable options. Fujifilm makes the popular Fujicolor C200. For black and white, Ilford HP5 and Kodak Tri-X are classics.
Development options vary by location. Some cities have dedicated film labs where you drop off your rolls and pick up prints or scans. Many drugstores and big-box retailers still offer film development services through partnerships with labs. Mail-order labs let you send film from anywhere and receive scans digitally plus prints if you want them.
Development costs typically run $10-15 per roll for basic processing, with additional fees for prints or high-quality scans. It's definitely more expensive than digital, but that's part of what makes each shot feel more valuable.
Should You Use an Argus M5700D Today?
This is the question everyone really wants answered. Should you actually use an Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure in 2025, or is it just a curiosity piece?
If you're interested in film photography and don't want to spend much money getting started, the M5700D makes sense. It removes technical barriers with its automatic features, letting you focus on composition and timing. You can learn the basics of film photography without worrying about manual focus or exposure settings.
However, if you're serious about photography and want manual control, you'll quickly outgrow this camera. More advanced film cameras let you adjust settings yourself, which opens up creative possibilities. The M5700D does what it does well, but what it does is fairly limited.
For casual fun and experimentation, it's perfectly fine. Take it to parties, on walks, or during travels. Use it to document family gatherings. Treat it as a different way of seeing and creating images rather than a professional tool.
The real value might be educational. Using the Argus M5700D helps you understand how cameras work and appreciate the technology we take for granted today. It connects you to the history of photography in a hands-on way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of battery does the Argus M5700D use? Most models use two AA batteries to power the auto focus, exposure meter, and film advance motor. Some versions might use a different battery configuration, so check your specific model.
Can I still buy film for this camera? Yes, 35mm film is still manufactured and widely available. You can purchase it from camera specialty stores, online retailers, and some drugstores. Popular brands include Kodak, Fujifilm, and Ilford.
How much does it cost to develop film? Film development typically costs between $10-15 per roll for basic processing. Additional fees apply for prints, high-resolution scans, or rush services. Prices vary by lab and location.
Is the Argus M5700D a good camera for beginners? Yes, it's actually ideal for beginners interested in film photography. The automatic features handle technical aspects while you learn composition and timing. It's also inexpensive if you find one used.
Why won't my auto focus work properly? Common causes include dirty infrared sensors, dead batteries, or mechanical failures. Clean the small window near the lens, replace batteries, and ensure your subject is within the 3-15 foot focusing range.
Can I use this camera for professional photography? While technically possible, the M5700D lacks the image quality and manual controls professionals typically need. It's best suited for casual photography, learning, and artistic experimentation with film.
Final Thoughts
The Argus M5700D auto focus/program exposure represents an interesting moment in photography history. It came along when manufacturers were figuring out how to make cameras more accessible without sacrificing too much quality. While it's not a professional tool and won't compete with modern technology in most ways, it still has value today.
If you find one of these cameras, consider giving it a try. Load some film, charge up the batteries, and see what happens. You might discover that limitations can be freeing rather than frustrating. There's something satisfying about working within constraints and making deliberate choices about what to photograph.
Film photography isn't better than digital, just different. The Argus M5700D offers a way to experience that difference without a huge investment of money or learning. Whether you're rediscovering an old camera from your youth or finding one for the first time, it deserves a chance to create a few more memories.
Who knows? You might find that slowing down and being more intentional with your photography makes you appreciate the craft more. And even if you don't fall in love with film, you'll have a better understanding of how far camera technology has come and where it might go next.
| Specification | Details |
| Film Type | 35mm (135 format) |
| Focus System | Infrared auto focus |
| Exposure Mode | Program (automatic) |
| Lens | 35mm f/2.8 (typical) |
| Flash | Built-in automatic |
| Film Advance | Motorized |
| Battery | 2x AA (typical) |
| Focus Range | ~3-15 feet |
| Weight | ~300g |