Camera Zenit DX System 35mm

[Care Photo]

I got a Zenit DX System ,do not know how to use it ,please some one can explain have a description only in Russian.

as well lens 2,5/50 what is the best film to use 200 or 100 ?
Thank you.

Martin

 

[T42]

Hello Martin.

I will assume that you have bought a mechanical camera which can decode DX film speed indications which have been encoded onto 35mm film cassettes. Here is a link to the Zenit site where I think such a camera is identified and described:
http://www.zenit-camera.com/zenit_camera_412dx.htm

As to its operation, it should be the same as for all classical mechanical cameras. You will need to learn the fundamentals of photography. Specifically, you will need to understand the relationships of film speed (ISO, formerly ASA), Aperture (lens opening), Shutter Speed (exposure time), Focal Length (lens' angle of view), how to use a light meter (in the camera in this case), and some basic compositional skills.

The indicator within the window of the camera should indicate when you have a workable combination of shutter speed and aperture to achieve a suitable exposure for your film.

That might head you in the right direction. Ask questions as you go. Lots of folks here are only too willing to help you.

Good luck with it.

 

[T42]

I got a Zenit DX System ,do not know how to use it ... as well lens 2,5/50 what is the best film to use 200 or 100 ?
Thank you. Martin

Martin,

The 50mm lens should be quite useful as a first lens. Good sensitivity and a very useful, more or less "normal" angle of viewing. You can add other M42 thread-mount lenses later as you learn more. There are zillions of them available for small money.

You said 50mm f 2.5. That is an unusual maximum (wide open) aperture number. Could it by chance be f 2.0?

ISO 100 or 200 are both good enough as you get started. Even 400 if you can get it. 200 is as good a place to start as any.

To get started, put some batteries into your camera (careful with polarity), drop in a roll of ISO 200 film and thread it carefully. Close the door and wind on until you see number one in the counter window. Set the lens aperture at f8 and the shutter at 125 (1/125th second), focus at infinity. Step outdoors. Turn on the meter in your camera. While composing on a picture, adjust the aperture until your meter says you have a proper exposure. Click. That's a start.

From there you refine everything as you learn photography. Check out this site:
http://silverlight.co.uk/tutorials/toc.html

 

[Care Photo]

Zenit 412 DX

Thank you,very much .

Regards
Martin