The Smena-M is a viewfinder camera, was developed by MMZ Minsk and introduced in the 60s. It was built in Minsk in the former USSR. The body is black and made of Bakelite. Smena stands for young generation.
The lens of the Smena-M is fixed. The lens is named “”MMZ T-22M (Triplet) 40mm f4.5″”. The widest aperture is f4.5 and the focal length is 40 mm. You have to focus the lens manually. The closest focusing distance is specified as 1.3 meters for this lens.
The exposure is not measured by the camera. The exposure time and aperture can be selected by the photographer. It is therefore advantageous to measure the exposure externally. For example, there are practical apps for smartphones that make this possible. The measured values can then be transferred to the camera.
The 35 mm camera offers shutter speeds from 1/250 second to 1/8 second and has a Bulb mode. In the Bulb setting, the remains open as long as the photographer keeps the shutter button pressed. The film is manually wound to the next frame. There is a Cold Shoe to which additional accessories can be attached.
Films for the Smena-M
The Smena-M is designed for 35mm film. There is still a good selection of material for color and black and white images for this film format. Possible films for the Lomo camera are the Fujifilm Superia 400* and the Kodak TRI-X 400*. Both films deliver solid results.
The development of the color film is the C-41 process. This development process is available at almost every photo lab. The B&W film can also be developed in a lab, but it goes into a different process. It is also possible to develop the B&W film at home, as the process is less complex. However, photo labs also offer a corresponding service.
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/4.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 130 cm / 4.264 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/250 second to 1/8 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
FAQ about the Smena-M
What kind of film does this camera use?
The Smena-M uses 35mm film, also known as small-image film. This format is still widely available in both color and black and white options. Many popular brands offer compatible films.
How do I focus the lens on this simple camera?
The Smena-M has a manual focus lens. You'll need to turn the lens ring to adjust the focus until your subject is sharp. The minimum focusing distance is 1.3 meters.
Does the camera measure the light for me?
No, the Smena-M doesn't have a built-in light meter. You'll need to use a separate light meter, like a smartphone app, to determine the correct aperture and shutter speed settings.
What shutter speeds are available on this Russian camera?
The camera offers shutter speeds ranging from 1/250th of a second to 1/8th of a second, plus a bulb setting where the shutter stays open as long as you hold down the button.
Can I add accessories to the camera?
Yes, the Smena-M has a cold shoe on top, allowing you to attach accessories such as a flash or external light meter. This improves the functionality of the simple device.