The Cosina Hi-Lite HDL is a SLR camera. It was developed by Cosina and presented in the 1970s. In Germany, Photo Porst was also distributed by the then very large photo distributor Photo Porst. The model was called “Porst Reflex C-TL”.
The lenses of the Cosina Hi-Lite HDL can be exchanged. For this purpose, an M42 thread was used. The M42 thread is standardised and manufacturer-independent, which is why a large number of lenses have been manufactured. The lens thread was developed by Carl Zeiss in Jena. Some major manufacturers of M42 lenses were Zeiss, Pentax, Pentacon and Zenit/KMZ. The Cosina Hi-Lite HDL does not have an autofocus function. The focus is set manually.
The Cosina Hi-Lite HDL has a built-in light meter. The correct exposure is measured through the lens. The 35 mm camera comes with a Bulb setting option. The shutter is open for a variable time. A flash unit can be used via the hot shoe or the PC flash connection.
Films for the Cosina Hi-Lite HDL
Without photo films, nothing works with the Cosina Hi-Lite HDL. The camera needs 35mm films more precisely. 35mm films are still easy to get today and are developed by most photo laboratories. Beautiful 35mm films for color or black-and-white shots are the Agfaphoto Vista 200* and the Ilford Delta 400*.
The color film is processed in the C-41 process. C-41 films can be developed by most photo laboratories. The negatives of Cosina Hi-Lite HDL have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. At this size, a film (135-36) will usually fit at least 36 photos.
A tripod can be attached to the Cosina Hi-Lite HDL. A cable release can also be used with the camera. In addition, the self-timer can be used to take pictures.
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 |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Estimated value / Used price | 36,33 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 6 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 43,00 Euro (46.54 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 42,54 Euro (45.46 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 40,06 Euro (43.30 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Cosina Hi-Lite HDL
Is the Cosina Hi-Lite HDL a manual focus camera?
Yes, it is. The Cosina Hi-Lite HDL doesn't have autofocus. You adjust the focus manually using the lens's focusing ring. This gives you more control over the image.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The camera uses M42 lenses, which are a very common and widely available type. Many manufacturers made lenses for this mount, so you have a lot of choices.
How do I take pictures with a flash?
The Cosina Hi-Lite HDL has a hot shoe and a PC flash connection. You can use either to attach and fire an external flash.
What type of film does this old camera need?
It uses standard 35mm film, also known as 135-36 film. This type is still readily available, so you can easily find color or black and white film.
Can I use a tripod with the camera?
Yes, absolutely! The Cosina Hi-Lite HDL has a tripod mount, allowing you to attach a tripod for stable shots, particularly in low-light conditions.