The Porst Reflex C-TL is an SLR camera. It was developed by Cosina and presented by the large German photo retailer Porst in the 70s. The model was named “Cosina Hi-Lite HDL” at Cosina.
The lenses of the Porst Reflex C-TL are interchangeable. For this purpose, an M42 thread was built into the camera. The lens is focused by hand. The SLR camera from Japan does not have an autofocus function.
The M42 thread is more standardized and manufacturer-independent, so a variety of lenses were produced. The first M42 lens was invented by Zeiss. M42 lenses were manufactured by Pentax, Pentacon, Meyer-Optik and Beroflex, among others.
The camera comes with a light meter. The metering of the exposure takes place through the lens in the 35mm camera (TTL). The camera comes with a Bulb mode. In this, the shutter remains open as desired. A flash can be used via the hot shoe or PC flash port.
The Porst Reflex C-TL can be mounted on a tripod. There is also a thread for a cable release. In addition, there is a self-timer.
Films for the Porst Reflex C-TL
The Porst Reflex C-TL requires 35mm film. 35mm films are still made today and are fairly easy to get. Possible films for the SLR are the Kodak Gold 200* and the AgfaPhoto APX 400*. Both films can be used flexibly in everyday life. However, they also cut a very good figure when shooting on vacation.
The color film is a color negative film and is developed in the C-41 process. This development process is used by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film. Thus, about 36 images fit on a normal film (135-36). The film must be rewound manually by the photographer.
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 |
| Company name of the brand | Photo Porst |
| Manufacturer | Cosina |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 48,59 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 54 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 52,37 Euro (56.28 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 53,63 Euro (57.37 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 51,75 Euro (55.20 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Porst Reflex C-TL
Is the Porst Reflex C-TL a manual focus camera?
Yes, it is. The Porst Reflex C-TL uses manual focus. It doesn't have autofocus capabilities, which was common for cameras of its era.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The camera uses the M42 screw mount, a very common standard. This means you can use a wide variety of lenses from many different manufacturers.
Does this camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, it has a through-the-lens (TTL) light meter to help you determine the correct exposure settings for your shots.
How do I attach a flash to the camera?
You can use a flash with either the hot shoe or the PC flash sync connection. Both methods allow for external flash usage.
What type of film does the reflex camera use?
The Porst Reflex C-TL uses standard 35mm film. These are still readily available from many retailers.
Can I shoot in the house without the bulb?