The Salyut is a medium format camera from Arsenal. It was the first attempt of the Soviet camera industry to bring a professional medium format camera onto the market. The design of the Salyut was probably inspired by the Hasselblad 1600.
The soviet medium format camera was produced by Arsenal from 1957 to 1972. During this period the Salyut was changed again and again. Some models have a self-timer or the shortest exposure time is 1/1500 second.
The Zenith 80 is based on the Salyut with a slightly modified lens mount. This model was intended for export.
The viewfinder, film back and lens can be replaced on the Soviet camera. The principle is, not surprisingly, identical to the Hasselblad cameras of the time. The base is formed by the cube with mirror, adjustment wheel and lock to which the parts are attached.
Lenses with a Hasselblad 1600 mount can be used. In most cases, the Industar-29 80mm f/2.8 can be found on the medium format camera. The focus of the lens must be adjusted manually by the viewfinder. There is no autofocus system.
The correct exposure cannot be measured by the camera because it does not have an exposure meter. The aperture and exposure time can be freely adjusted according to the photographer’s wishes. The camera has bulb mode. No batteries are needed to take pictures.
Films for the Salyut
The Salyut is designed for 120 films. The production of 120 films has not yet been finished and you can still find them. A great film choice for color photos is the Lomography Color Negative 100 120* and for black and white pictures the Ilford XP2 Super*.
You have to think square with the Salyut. It takes pictures in 6×6 format. One roll of film has room for twelve shots with this picture format. The film in the camera must be winded manually by the photographer.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 120 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1/2 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR), Ukraine |
| End of production | 1972 |
| Production duration | 15 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 381,45 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
FAQ about the Salyut
Is the Salyut camera easy to use for beginners?
The Salyut is a manual camera, meaning you need to adjust settings like aperture and shutter speed yourself. It doesn't have autofocus or a light meter, requiring some photographic knowledge. However, its simple design is appealing to those who enjoy hands-on photography.
What kind of film does this Soviet camera use?
The Salyut uses 120 film, a medium format film that produces square 6x6 cm images. Twelve exposures are available per roll, and the film needs to be advanced manually.
Can I use different lenses with the Arsenal Salyut?
Yes, the Salyut is compatible with lenses designed for the Hasselblad 1600. The Industar-29 80mm f/2.8 is commonly found with it, and the focusing is manual, via a viewfinder.
Does the camera have any automatic features?
No, the Salyut is completely manual. It lacks autofocus and a built-in light meter; you need to determine the correct exposure settings yourself. It also requires manual film advancement.
How much did this camera cost when it was new?
The Salyut wasn't cheap. During its production, it cost a worker about six months' salary, showing its high quality and professional status as a medium format camera.