Cosina 1000S

The Cosina 1000S is an analog 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera for 35mm film. It features fully manual operation combined with an integrated through-the-lens (TTL) light meter. It is a good introduction to 35mm photography.

Lens

The Cosina 1000S features an M42 lens mount, allowing the use of a wide range of interchangeable lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto lenses. Mounting the lenses is easy. Regardless of the lens used, the precise TTL light metering system and the bright viewfinder remain functional.

Two versions were typically offered as standard lenses: the Cosinon Auto 50mm f/1.9, consisting of 6 elements in 4 groups, which can be stopped down to f/16, and the Cosinon Auto 55mm f/2.8, consisting of 4 elements in 3 groups, which can be stopped down to f/22. Both lenses feature an automatic diaphragm function, which ensures that the aperture is only closed to the preselected value at the moment the shutter is released, allowing for a bright viewfinder image for composition and focusing.

Focusing is achieved manually by turning the focusing ring on the lens. A central micro-split-image focus point (measuring wedge indicator) on a Fresnel disk in the viewfinder serves as a focusing aid. The subject is considered in focus when the image in the central circle no longer “flickers” or the two halves of the split-image indicator are congruent. If the viewfinder image darkens during exposure metering with the aperture fully closed, the aperture can be temporarily fully opened again by releasing the metering switch.

Both of these standard lenses have a 49mm filter thread for screw-in filters. Clip-on filters or lens hoods can also be used; this requires a diameter of 51mm for the f/2.8 lens and 54mm for the f/1.9 lens.

The depth of field is determined by the selected aperture and the distance to the subject. A larger aperture (e.g., f/2.8) or a shorter subject distance results in a shallower depth of field. Conversely, a smaller aperture (e.g., f/16) or a greater distance increases the depth of field. The focal length of the lens also influences the depth of field: Longer focal lengths reduce the depth of field, while shorter focal lengths expand it.

Exposure Settings

The Cosina 1000S is equipped with a TTL CdS (Through-the-Lens Cadmium Sulfide) exposure meter, which measures the average brightness of the light entering the lens. This system enables precise exposure measurements even when using interchangeable lenses or filters, without the need to consider manual correction factors.

The exposure meter is activated by pressing and holding the exposure meter switch on the front of the camera. While the switch is pressed, the lens aperture closes to the value preselected on the aperture ring (working aperture metering). At the same time, the exposure meter needle becomes visible in the viewfinder.

The correct exposure is set using a tracking system: The photographer adjusts either the shutter speed using the shutter speed ring or the aperture using the aperture ring until the metering needle in the viewfinder is aligned with the central mark. A needle position in the upper range (+) indicates overexposure, a position in the lower range (-) indicates underexposure. When the needle is centered, the combination of shutter speed and aperture is correct for the current lighting conditions and the selected film speed.

The film speed is set manually using the film speed dial. The setting range is from ASA 25 to 1600 (equivalent to DIN 15 to 33). The dots between the numerical values ​​represent intermediate speeds.

The camera features a mechanical Copal Square metal focal plane shutter. Shutter speeds are selected using the shutter speed ring and range from 1 second to 1/1000 second, plus the B (Bulb) setting for long exposures. The aperture values ​​are set directly on the lens aperture ring and range from the largest opening (f/1.9 or f/2.8) to the smallest opening (f/16 or f/22), depending on the lens.

Flash System

The Cosina 1000S features M-X flash synchronization, which allows the connection of external flash units. Two separate sync sockets are available on the side of the camera: The X-sync socket is designed for use with electronic flash units. Synchronization occurs at a shutter speed of 1/125 second or slower (including the B setting). The M-sync socket is used to connect M-class flash bulbs (e.g., M, M5, M2) and enables synchronization at all available shutter speeds.

There is no built-in hot shoe; external flash units must be attached via an optional flash bracket or mount and connected to the corresponding socket using a sync cable. The correct exposure for flash photography is usually determined manually, often by dividing the flash’s guide number by the distance to the subject (in meters or feet) to calculate the required aperture.

Additional Features

The Cosina 1000S offers several useful additional features. A standard tripod thread is located on the bottom of the camera for use on a tripod, which is especially recommended for long exposures or telephoto shots.

For vibration-free release when using a tripod or in the B setting, a mechanical cable release can be used, which is screwed into the shutter button thread.

The frame counter counts the captured images additively and automatically resets to “S” (Start) when the camera back is opened. A built-in mechanism prevents accidental double exposures; The film must be advanced using the quick-release lever after each shot to re-cock and release the shutter.

There is a red mark on the top of the camera that indicates the exact position of the film plane. This mark is helpful for precise distance measurements for close-up or macro shots. A self-timer is not integrated.

Dimensions and Weight

The dimensions of the Cosina 1000S are (body only): 145 mm wide, 96 mm high, and 52 mm deep. The camera body alone weighs 710 grams.

Power Supply

The Cosina 1000S requires a battery to operate the integrated CdS light meter. The recommended battery type is the Eveready E-675, a 1.35V mercury oxide button cell.

The battery is inserted into the battery compartment on the bottom of the camera, with the negative (-) side facing inward. The battery compartment is opened and closed using a coin or similar object.

It is important to note that the shutter and film advance are purely mechanical, meaning the camera remains fully functional even without a battery or with a dead battery; only the exposure metering function is unavailable.

Film Recommendations

The Cosina 1000S uses standard 35mm film. The film speed must be manually set using the dial, depending on the film loaded, in the range of ASA 25 to 1600, as the camera does not have DX code recognition. The number of possible exposures per roll of film (typically 24 or 36) is determined by the film loaded and displayed in the frame counter.

The choice of film speed depends on the subject and lighting conditions. A good color film is Kodak Gold 200*. If you prefer taking black and white photos, you can use the Kentmere 100*.

Quick Operation Guide

Basic operation of the Cosina 1000S includes the following steps:

1. Inserting the Battery: Open the battery compartment on the bottom with a coin and insert a suitable battery (type E-675 or equivalent) with the negative (-) side facing in. Close the compartment.
2. Inserting the Film: Flip up the rewind crank and pull the rewind knob upward until the camera back pops open. The frame counter jumps to “S.” Insert the film cartridge into the chamber. Pull out the film tab and insert the end into a slot on the film take-up spool. Pull the film advance lever once to ensure that the film perforation is engaged by the advance teeth. Close the camera back firmly.
3. Advance the film: Press the film advance lever and the shutter button alternately until the frame counter shows “1.” The camera is now ready to shoot.
4. Set the film speed: Turn the film speed dial until the ASA value of the loaded film matches the mark.
5. Aim and focus on the subject: Look through the viewfinder and turn the focus ring on the lens until the subject appears sharp in the center split-image field.
6. Measure and set the exposure: Press and hold the exposure meter switch. Select an aperture on the aperture ring and/or a shutter speed on the shutter speed ring until the needle in the viewfinder points to the center mark. Release the blade switch.
7. Release the shutter: Gently press the shutter button to take the picture.
8. Advance the film: Push the film advance lever all the way to advance the film for the next shot and cock the shutter.
9. Unload the film: When the film is full (the counter shows 20 or 36, for example, and the advance lever is locked), press the film rewind button on the bottom of the camera (it normally stays pressed in). Extend the rewind crank and turn it clockwise (direction of the arrow) until resistance is felt. Open the camera back and remove the film cartridge. Avoid direct sunlight.