The Porst EL 500 is a rangefinder camera. It was introduced by Photo Porst in the 1960s. This model was probably built by the company Dacora.
The lens of the Porst EL 500 cannot be changed. The maximum aperture is f/2.8 with a focal length of 45 mm. The name of the manufacturer for the lens is “Rodenstock Color Trinon-Lanthan 1:2.8/45”. The lens is focused by hand. The Porst EL 500 does not have an autofocus function. Whether the subject is sharp can be determined by the rangefinder.
The Porst EL 500 has a built-in light meter. The desired exposure time can be determined manually. The aperture is also freely selectable. The Porst EL 500 has a bulb mode, for example for long exposures. The shutter is open for a variable time. A Prontor central shutter is installed in the camera.
Hot shoe flashes can be used with the Porst EL 500. There is also a connection for flash cubes.
The Porst EL 500 has a built-in self-timer. It also comes with a connector for a cable trigger and tripod. The dimensions of the Porst EL 500 are 13 x 9 x 6.5 cm. It weighs in at 530 grams.
Films for the Porst EL 500
The Porst EL 500 must be equipped with 35mm films. 35mm films are still produced today and can be developed in most photo labs. The Kodak Gold 200* is a possible color film for this model. Black and white images are with the Kodak TRI-X 400* possible.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 45 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, Connection for flash cubes |
| Flash sync speed | 1/500 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Size | 13 x 9 x 6,5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.12 x 3.54 x 2.56 inches |
| Weight | 530 Grams |
| Company name of the brand | Photo Porst |
| Manufacturer | Dacora |
FAQ about the Porst EL 500
Is the lens on this Porst camera interchangeable?
No, the Porst EL 500 has a fixed lens. It's a Rodenstock Color Trinon-Lanthan 1:2.8/45mm lens, which means you can't swap it for a different one. You have to work with the 45mm focal length.
How do I focus the camera?
This camera uses manual focus. There is no autofocus feature. You focus the lens manually by turning the focusing ring until the image in the viewfinder is sharp.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, the Porst EL 500 has a built-in light meter to help you determine the correct exposure settings. You then manually set the shutter speed and aperture based on the meter's reading.
What kind of film does this compact camera use?
The Porst EL 500 uses standard 35mm film, also known as 135 film. Both color and black and white 35mm films are compatible.
Can I use a flash with the device?
Yes, the camera has a hot shoe for flash units and a connection for flash cubes. This allows you to use external flash to illuminate your photos.