The Petri FT 500 is a camera from Petri. It is an SLR camera. A functionally identical model was sold under the name “Carena SRH 760”.
The lenses of the Petri FT 500 can be changed. For this purpose, an M42 thread was installed. There is no autofocus on the 35 mm camera. You have to manually focus on the subject.
There is a wide range of interchangeable lenses for the M42 lens mount. The first M42 optics were developed by Zeiss. Zeiss, KMZ, Voigtländer, Pentacon and Pentax were among the manufacturers of M42 interchangeable lenses.
The Petri FT 500 has a built-in light meter. Designed for 35mm film from ISO 25 to ISO 1600, the SLR determines the correct exposure by metering through the lens (TTL). The aperture and exposure time are freely adjustable. A Bulb setting is available on the Petri FT 500. Per hot shoe, an external flash unit can be used with the 35 mm camera.
The Petri FT 500 offers the possibility to connect a cable release and has a thread for a tripod. Measuring 15.5 x 9.5 x 5 cm, the metal camera weighs 675 grams.
Films for the Petri FT 500
35mm films are needed to take pictures with the SLR. 35mm film is still produced today and can be developed in most labs. A good choice for the Petri FT 500 is the Kodak Gold 200* (color film) and the Ilford FP4 Plus* (black and white film).
Of course, there are other films that you can use with the SLR camera. Other manufacturers include Adox, Fujifilm and Foma. Further material is available under the brands Kentmere, Fotoimpex, Lomography, Rollei or Cinestill.
As a rule, 36 exposures fit onto one roll of film. The development of the film material is offered by many photo laboratories.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 1600 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Size | 15,5 x 9,5 x 5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 6.10 x 3.74 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 675 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Petri |
FAQ about the Petri FT 500
Is the Petri FT 500 a digital camera or a film camera?
The Petri FT 500 is a film camera, specifically a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera. It uses film rolls, not digital sensors, to capture images. You'll need to develop the film after taking pictures.
How do I focus the lens on this SLR camera?
The Petri FT 500 doesn't have autofocus; it's a manual focus camera. You'll need to manually adjust the focus ring on the lens until your subject is sharp. This requires some practice to master.
Can I use different lenses with the camera?
Yes, the Petri FT 500 uses the M42 screw mount. This means a wide variety of lenses from various manufacturers like Zeiss, Pentax, and others are compatible.
Does this camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, it has a built-in TTL light meter that helps determine the correct exposure settings for your film. The meter works with ISO 25 to 1600 film speed.
What kind of film does the device take?
The Petri FT 500 uses standard 35mm film. This is a common size, so it's easy to find both color and black and white film from various manufacturers.