The Smena-9 is a viewfinder camera. It was built by GOMZ from 1969 to 1971. The body of the camera is made of Bakelite. Overall, it is a simple camera. It is identical to the Smena-8, but has no self-timer.
The lens of the Smena-9 cannot be changed. The manufacturer’s designation for the lens is T-43 440. The focal length is 40 mm and the widest aperture is f/4. The lens is focused manually. The Smena-9 does not have an autofocus.
The exposure is not measured by the camera. The exposure time and aperture can be selected by the photographer. Here it is recommended to use an external exposure meter. Of course, you can also estimate the exposure.
For the shutter speed, you can choose between values from 1/250 second to 1/15 second. In addition, the comes with a Bulb setting option. With the Bulb setting, the remains open as long as the photographer keeps the shutter button pressed. This is especially interesting if you plan to capture long exposures on film.
Films for the Smena-9
The Smena-9 requires 35mm film, and 35mm film is still available from several manufacturers. Possible films for this model are the Kodak Gold 200* for color photos and the Ilford HP5* for B&W images. Both films are very popular and produce solid results with any camera.
The color film is processed using the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most labs. The black and white film must be processed with a special black and white developer. This type of development is also offered by most professional photo labs, but is often somewhat expensive.
The film in the camera must be rewound manually, since there is no automatic film transport.
For blur-free photography, the camera has a thread for a tripod on the bottom. Batteries are not needed for taking pictures. All functions are mechanical.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 40 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/250 second to 1/15 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| End of production | 1971 |
| Production duration | 2 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 77,02 Euro 13712172639661247084388 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of April 21, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 80,80 Euro (86.59 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Smena-9
Is the Smena-9 camera easy to use?
The Smena-9 is a relatively simple camera, making it beginner-friendly. However, it lacks features like auto-focus and automatic exposure metering, requiring manual adjustments.
What kind of lens does this camera have?
The Smena-9 has a fixed T-43 4/40 lens with a 40mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/4. You cannot change the lens.
How does the shutter speed work on the Smena 9?
The shutter speed offers settings ranging from 1/250th of a second to 1/15th of a second, plus a bulb setting for long exposures. You manually select the desired speed.
Does the camera measure the exposure automatically?
No, the Smena-9 doesn't have an automatic exposure meter. You'll need to use an external light meter or estimate the correct settings for aperture and shutter speed.
What type of film does the device use and how is it advanced?
The Smena-9 uses standard 35mm film. Film advance is manual; there's no automatic film transport.