The Cosina Hi-Lite 402 is a SLR camera. It was presented by Cosina in the 1970s and built by the company from Nagano, Japan.
The lenses of the Cosina Hi-Lite 402 can be easily interchanged. A M42 lens mount was installed for this purpose. M42 lenses are attached to the camera by means of a screw thread. The lens mount is very common. The first lens was developed at Carl Zeiss in Jena, Germany. The major producers of M42 lenses were Pentax, Zeiss, Pentacon and KMZ. There is no autofocus with the 35mm camera. You have to focus on the subject by hand.
The camera has a built-in light meter. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure when it measures through the lens (TTL). The aperture and shutter speed can be individually configured.
The Bulb mode can be used for long exposures. Hot shoe flashes can be used with the Cosina Hi-Lite 402. There is also a PC flash socket.
Films for the Cosina Hi-Lite 402
The Cosina Hi-Lite 402 exposes 35mm films. This type of film is still being produced and can be processed by most photo laboratories without any problems. A color film for 35mm camera is the Kodak Portra 160*. A possible film for black-and-white images is the Ilford FP4 Plus*.
The color film is processed in the C-41 process. The C-41 films are offered by most photo laboratories.
The Cosina Hi-Lite 402 can be triggered by a self-timer or an additional cable release. A thread for a tripod is available.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Country of production | Japan |
FAQ about the Cosina Hi-Lite 402
Is this camera easy to use for beginners?
While it's a manual camera, meaning you control focus and exposure, it's relatively straightforward. It has a built-in light meter to help you set the correct exposure, and the interchangeable lenses offer flexibility.
What kind of lenses can I use with this SLR?
The Cosina Hi-Lite 402 uses M42 lenses, which are a screw-mount type. Many manufacturers made these, so you have a wide variety to choose from, both new and vintage.
Does this camera have autofocus?
No, this is a manual focus camera. You'll need to adjust the focus ring on the lens to get sharp images. This gives you more control over the image but requires practice.
Can I use flash with the Cosina Hi-Lite 402?
Yes, it has a hot shoe for flashguns and a PC sync socket. This allows you to connect various flash units for better lighting in low-light conditions.
What type of film does the camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film, both color and black and white. These are widely available, making it easy to find film to suit your photographic needs.