Cosina CT-1 G

The Cosina CT-1 G is a classic SLR camera. It was manufactured by the Japanese company Cosina and also sold under other brand names. The model offers similar features to other CT-1 models, but lacks a self-timer and the exposure time is limited to a maximum of 1/1000 of a second.

Features of the SLR Camera

The ability to use interchangeable lenses is made possible by the universal Pentax K bayonet, which provides access to a huge selection of lenses from various manufacturers.

The camera does not have autofocus; instead, focus is adjusted manually on the lens. A bright viewfinder serves as a focusing aid, offering a split image in the center and a microprism ring for precise focusing. The viewfinder covers 93% of the final image field.

A built-in light meter makes it easier to find the correct exposure. The camera uses center-weighted TTL (Through The Lens) metering, meaning the light is metered directly through the lens at full aperture, with greater emphasis on the center of the image.

The light meter is designed for film with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to 1600. Correct exposure is indicated by three LEDs in the viewfinder: A green “O” indicates the correct setting, while a red “+” indicates overexposure and a red “–” indicates underexposure. The exposure time can be manually selected using the shutter speed dial and ranges from 1 second to a rapid 1/1000 of a second.

A bulb mode (“B”) is available for long exposures, in which the shutter remains open as long as the shutter button is pressed. An external flash unit can be used via the hot shoe, with a flash sync speed of 1/125 of a second or faster.

Thanks to the tripod thread and the ability to connect a mechanical cable release, blur-free shots can be easily taken.

According to the instructions, the camera body alone weighs 410 grams and measures 13.3 x 8.5 x 5 cm. The light meter is powered by two LR44 or alternatively SR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*). The rest of the camera functions are purely mechanical and work without batteries.

Films for the Cosina CT-1 G

Which films are required for the Cosina CT-1 G? You need to buy 35mm film for the camera. Although the 35mm format is no longer as widespread as it once was, there are still photographers who want to use this format, which is why some manufacturers produce films for it.

For color images with this camera, we recommend using Fujifilm Superia 400*, while for black and white images, Ilford FP4 Plus* is recommended. Reviews report that both films deliver solid results and are suitable for a wide range of applications.

The color film is developed using the C-41 process. Almost all developing labs can perform the C-41 process. The black and white film must be developed in a suitable developer according to the instructions.

The exposure range of the Cosina CT-1 G is the standard 35mm format of 24 mm x 36 mm. A typical 35mm film at this size holds approximately 36 frames. The film must be manually rewound by the photographer using the quick-release lever after each exposure. The exposure counter counts the exposures and automatically resets to “S” (start) when the back is opened.