The Petri PX5F is a simple point-and-shoot camera from the 1980s. This 35mm camera was also known as the "Cosina CX5F"; both models are identical in their features. The Japanese company Cosina produced both models.
An earlier version, the Cosina CX5, offered additional options such as manual focusing and extended ISO settings.
The lens of the Petri PX5F is fixed and not interchangeable. It is labeled "COSINON 1:3.8 33mm." The focal length is 33 mm and the maximum aperture is f/3.8.
Since the focus is fixed, there is no way to manually adjust the focus. For sharp images, the distance to the subject should be at least 90 cm.
The exposure settings are determined automatically by the camera's electronics, which use metering cells. The camera is designed for film with a sensitivity of ISO 100 or ISO 400. The value is set using a slider on the front panel.
Aperture and shutter speed are fixed; exposure compensation is not available.
The built-in flash can be used in low-light conditions. The flash range is 0.9 to 3 meters at ISO 100, which corresponds to a guide number of 12.
The camera is powered by two AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*), which are easily available.
A tripod thread and self-timer are missing.
Films for the Petri PX5F
Films for this camera are also readily available. The Petri PX5F uses 35mm film. There is a wide range of compatible color and black-and-white films.
For color photos, the Fujifilm Superia 400* is recommended, while for black-and-white photos, the Kodak T-Max 100* is recommended. Many other films can also be used.
Color films must be developed using the C-41 process, which can be done in any photo lab that develops 35mm film.
The negatives of the Petri PX5F are 24 mm x 36 mm in size. A standard 35mm film contains approximately 36 exposures. The film advances to the next frame manually using a thumbwheel on the back, as there is no automatic advance function. A frame counter is located on the top.
