The Prinzflex 500E is a SLR camera. It was produced by the KMZ company in the Soviet Union. It was available there as Zenit-E. The Prinzflex was offered by the company Dixons.
With its M42 thread, the Prinzflex 500E is able to carry a variety of different lenses, which can be interchanged as needed. Focusing requires manual handling as an autofocus function is not integrated into this camera. However, this gives the photographic process a certain authenticity and a touch of nostalgia.
Users of the Prinzflex 500E are assisted by a selenium light meter cleverly placed above the lens. This useful tool is ideal for working with films whose ISO range is between 16 and 500.
With manual control over aperture and exposure time, the camera offers impressive flexibility, which is particularly effective for long exposures with its bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter remains open for a desired duration, leaving room for creative experimentation.
Additionally, external flash units can be connected via the PC flash port or hot shoe to provide an additional light source for perfectly lit shots.
Film material for the Prinzflex 500E
Recommended for color images with this camera is Kodak Portra 160*, while for black and white images Kodak T-Max 400* is recommended. Of course you can also use films from other manufacturers.
This special color negative film is developed using the C-41 process, a process offered by most photo labs that develop 35mm film. The camera’s manual film advance function allows photographers to consciously choose the moment to take the next shot.
In terms of accessories, the Prinzflex 500E is equipped with a tripod mount, and can also be expanded with a cable release to expand the variety of photographic possibilities. The built-in self-timer offers another dimension of flexibility. It also doesn’t require batteries, making it a reliable companion when you’re on the go.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Quick release lever |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Selenium light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 16 to 500 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Manufacturer | KMZ |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
FAQ about the Prinzflex 500E
What type of camera is the Prinzflex 500E, and who manufactured it?
The Prinzflex 500E is a single-lens reflex (SLR) camera manufactured by KMZ in the Soviet Union, where it was also known as the Zenit-E. It was sold by Dixons in other markets.
Does this camera offer autofocus capabilities?
No, the Prinzflex 500E features manual focus. This lack of autofocus contributes to a more hands-on, authentic photographic experience.
How does the camera handle light metering and what ISO range is it suitable for?
It utilizes a selenium light meter situated above the lens. This meter effectively works with films having an ISO range between 16 and 500.
What kind of lens mount does the Prinzflex 500E use, and what are its flash capabilities?
The camera uses an M42 screw mount, allowing for a wide variety of interchangeable lenses. It also features a PC flash sync and hot shoe for external flash units.
What are some recommended film types for use with the Prinzflex 500E and what is notable about its operation?
Kodak Portra 160 for color and Kodak T-Max 400 for black and white are recommended. The camera has a manual film advance, giving the photographer precise control over each shot and importantly, it doesn't require batteries.