The Kodak Prostar 111 is a simple camera from Kodak. The 35mm photo camera is also called “Kodak Pro-Star 111” and “Kodak 111”. The housing of the camera is made of plastic and is black. This model was built in China for the American photo pioneer.
The lens of the 35 mm camera is fixed. The focus of the lens is fixed. The camera has no built-in light meter. Aperture and shutter speed cannot be changed. The focal length of the lens will probably be in the range of 28-35 mm, as is common with this type of camera. There is no information about the focal length of the lens on the camera.
A flash is built in for pictures in low light or poor lighting conditions. The automatic flash can also be switched off if desired. The flash is powered by two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). The rest of the camera works completely mechanically, so no batteries are needed.
Films for the Kodak Prostar 111
The Kodak Prostar 111 is designed for 35mm format according to the manual. For this film format there is a good selection of material for color and black and white images. Possible films for the Kodak Prostar 111 are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color images and the Ilford XP2 Super* for b/w images. The camera does not have a film speed detection, so these flexible films are a good choice.
The color film is a color negative film and is developed in the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most laboratories. Most drugstore chains in Germany offer the development of color films. The monochrome film can also be developed in the C-41 process, other black and white films require a special developer.
The exposure area of the Kodak Prostar 111 has a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. Per film (135-36) usually 36 exposures are possible. The film must be manually rewound by the photographer.
The 35mm camera can only be purchased when it is needed. The price for a used camera depends on its condition. As a rule, you pay around two to ten euros for a working model.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | - |
| Widest aperture | f/5.6 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Country of production | China |
FAQ about the Kodak Prostar 111
Is the Kodak Prostar 111 difficult to use? I'm new to film photography.
No, this camera is designed to be very simple. It's a point-and-shoot camera, meaning you just point it at your subject and press the shutter button. There are no settings to adjust like aperture or shutter speed, making it perfect for beginners.
Does this Kodak take batteries? What are they used for?
Yes, the camera uses two AA batteries, but only for the built-in flash. The rest of the functions, like winding the film, are entirely mechanical, so it can still work fine without batteries if you're shooting in good light.
Can I use any kind of film with the Kodak Pro-Star 111, or does it need a special type?
This camera uses standard 35mm film, which is widely available. You can use either color or black and white film. Films like Kodak Ultramax 400 or Ilford XP2 Super are good choices because the camera doesn't detect the film speed automatically, so these flexible films work well.
I've heard about developing film. Is it hard to develop the film I use in it, or can I get it done easily?
Developing the film is generally easy. The camera is designed for films that can be developed using the C-41 process, which is offered by most photo labs and even many drugstores. This makes it convenient to get your photos developed without needing specialized services for black and white films.
Where can I buy a camera like this compact camera, and how much does it cost?
Since this camera is no longer in production, you can only purchase it used. Prices usually range from around two to ten euros, depending on its condition. Check online marketplaces or local camera shops that sell used equipment to find one.