The Sokol-2 is a rangefinder camera and the successor of the Sokol Automat. It was produced by Lomo in the Soviet Union from 1977 to 1987. The biggest innovation was the possibility of using Hot Shoe Flashes.
The camera comes with a fixed focal length. The fixed focal length has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and a focal length of 50 mm. The Sokol-2 has no autofocus and therefore requires manual focus. The viewfinder supports the photographer during focusing.
An exposure meter with three metering cells was installed in the Sokol-2. The 35 mm camera has an automatic exposure mode and automatically adjusts aperture and exposure time. The desired f-stop number as well as the exposure time can be set by the user.
If you want to take long time pictures, there is the bulb-setting. An external flash can be used via the hot shoe. The film in the camera must be winded manually by the photographer. The Sokol-2 has a cable release and a tripod thread.
Films for the Sokol-2
The Sokol-2 needs 35mm film. 35mm films are still produced today. They can be developed in most photo laboratories. A good choice for color and black-and-white pictures is the Agfaphoto Vista 400* and the Ilford Delta 100*.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 50 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| End of production | 1987 |
| Production duration | 10 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 83,48 Euro 14913178693721351691395 Estimate based on used prices of 5 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of April 21, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 22,11 Euro (23.81 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 45,58 Euro (48.71 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 88,17 Euro (95.25 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Sokol-2
Is the Sokol-2 camera automatic or manual?
The Sokol-2 has automatic exposure settings for aperture and shutter speed, but you can also manually set them. It's a semi-automatic camera, offering flexibility.
What kind of lens does this camera have?
It has a fixed 50mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8. This is a common focal length for general photography.
How do I focus the camera?
The Sokol-2 uses a rangefinder for focusing, which requires manual adjustment. You'll need to look through the viewfinder and adjust the focus ring until the image is sharp.
Can I use a flash with the Sokol-2?
Yes, it has a hot shoe for connecting external flash units. This allows you to use flash photography for better lighting in low-light conditions.
What type of film does this rangefinder use?
The Sokol-2 uses standard 35mm film, which is readily available. Both color and black and white films can be used.