The Zenit 18 is an SLR camera. The KMZ company built the camera from 1980 to 1987. It was produced only in small numbers. It is the successor of the Zenit 19. The SLR comes in a similar body, but the Zenit 18 has an additional DOF preview button and the light meter was no longer coupled with the shutter release.
The lenses on the Zenit 18 are interchangeable. Usable are the lenses for the M42 thread. The Helios-44M 2/58 is often the standard lens. M42 lenses are attached to the camera by a screw thread. The M42 thread is the successor of the M39 mount. Some major producers of M42 lenses were Zeiss, Pentax, Pentacon and Zenit/KMZ The focus of the lens must be adjusted manually. There is no autofocus system.
The camera has a built-in light meter. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure when metering through the lens (TTL). The exposure time and aperture can be freely selected. The camera comes with a Bulb setting option. Here, the shutter is open for a variable time. Hot-shoe flashes can be used with the Zenit 18. There is also a PC flash socket.
Films for the Zenit 18
The Zenit 18 is designed for 35mm film. 35mm film is still produced today and can be developed in most labs. For black and white images, you can go for the Ilford Delta 100*. For color images, the Agfaphoto Vista 200 is a possibility.
Color film is developed using the C-41 process. C-41 film can be developed by most photo labs. The film is further wound in the camera by hand.
The Zenit 18 has a built-in self-timer and a connection option for a cable release. In addition, there is a thread for a tripod.
