Question:
Is the ZENIT 412LS SLR CAMERA a good camera?
demi
2007-01-11 13:49:02 UTC
Overview

* Format: 35mm

* Shutter speeds: 1/500 to 1/30 & "B"

* Exposure: LED-light guided TTL

* Focal length (included lens): 50mm

* Max aperture (included lens): f/2

* Mount: Pentax K

* Flash: standard hotshoe, syncs at 1/30th second

* Self timer, tripod thread, standard cable release thread

* Size: 5.5" x 4" x 3.5" (14cm x 10cm x 9cm;)

* Weight: 1.5lb (0.7kg)


For more info on it go to http://shop.lomography.com/shop/main.php?cat=&pro=fis
[and click on details]
Three answers:
anonymous
2007-01-11 16:30:00 UTC
It's been a while since I saw that camera, it's sort of a primitive camera, really. It's not a bad camera but you'll be limited with future lens purchases and the quality of glass in those lenses are somewhat questionable (you'll find a lot of used one in not-too-good conditions). Resale value for that camera and lens are not very encouraging.



Consider, instead, the Nikon N80, the best and most versatile camera (can be used totally Manual Mode, or semi-automatic in Aperture Priority Mode or, instead, in Shutter Priority Mode, or totally automatic Program Mode), has 3 light metering modes, built-in strobe, and is built ergonimically (and is considered the best camera for taking classes, too).



You will want to keep this camera long afterward; it is a sturdy camera with similar features to the professional level, Nikon F100. There's no better camera at this price range! Shutter speed: 30 seconds to 1/4000th second plus bulb. Weighs 18.2 ounces and self timer, tripod thread, standard cable release thread, too. It has a hotshoe and syncs at 1/60th second with a dedicated strobe flash (remember, it HAS a built-in strobe, great for fill-in light). It will set your film's ISO for you automatically, it will advance the film after each shot is taken, and it will rewind the film as you take the last the shot. It also has a great, clear viewfinder with all the information (f/stop, shutter speed, ISO, mode, etc).



Check this site: http://www.photosig.com/articles/1227/article



The best lens for the Nikon N80 is the Nikkor AF 28-105mm f/3.5-5.6D which can be used for wide angle, regular, portrait, short telephoto and for macro photography. If you need something a little more economical, then go for the Nikkor AF 35-105mm f/3.5-5.6D-macro, and for wide angle photography, just take two or three steps back. A very good low light lens for emergency purposes would be the Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D and you can find it for about $75-$80 used (great lens for low light situations and a great lens for portraits, too).



Best place to find a good used N80 and the recommended lenses above: www.keh.com and be ready to buy the minute you see what you want; their products do not stay on their shelves very long. If you don't see what you want, go back in two or three days. They have the best prices and the most conservative ratings anywhere! Get the instructions manual AND Hogan's Book on the N80 (fantastic tips and tricks of the trade).



If you're just starting out, get the N80 camera; you won't regret it. You'll have a quality camera that you will grow with and not outgrow anytime soon. I have two Nikon F5 professional level cameras and I still use my two Nikon N80 for everyday walking around purposes with the Nikkor AF 28-105mm and Nikkor AF 70-300mm plus the Nikkor AF 50mm f/1.4 (the f/1.8 version is just as good, really).
Polyhistor
2007-01-12 10:10:53 UTC
I am not sure that I would jump on it, but from the specs, it appears as if it has all the whistles and bells. If it takes Pentax K mount lenses, buy those from the used market



all the specs seem normal, or within range of normal, so I would not worry about it.



You can certainly use it for learning.



If you have not already purchased it, go to www.keh.com and see what 35mms that they have in the same price ranges.



It is Russian made and while the Holga and the Seagull (chinese made) are not the best, they work. I am presently looking at a Kiev, also made in Russia.



About Russian Cameras. After WWII, Russian inherited, via taking over a couple of Zeiss plants, the plans to make some incredible cameras.



Everyone is going to tell you that (1) you need to go digital, (2) you need a Nikon, (3) you need a Canon, and all of that associated garbage. If you like this one, then go with it. The price will not drive you into bankruptcy.



Other cameras, used, that you can look at are Olympus OM1 or OM2, Yashica SLR, which takes the Pentax screw mounts, and a zillion others. Buy what you can afford, learn how to use it and have fun with it.
?
2017-02-10 04:40:43 UTC
1


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