The Zenit Junior is a 35mm camera. It is a rangefinder camera. The camera was produced by KMZ near Moscow in the former Soviet Union. Zorki Junior is the international version of the 35mm camera. In Germany, the camera was called “Zorki 10”.
The camera’s lens cannot be changed. The Zenit Junior does not have an autofocus function. The focus is set manually. The built-in rangefinder helps to do this. The close-up limit of the lens is 1.5 m.
The Zenit Junior has a built-in light meter. More precisely, it is a selenium exposure meter. This type has the advantage that it does not require an external power source. The big disadvantage is the dwindling reliability over the years.
Bulb mode is available for long exposures. The shutter can remain open for a variable time and expose the film. An external flash unit can be connected to the PC flash socket.
Films for the Zenit Junior
Photographic films are required for the Zenit Junior. Films for the 35mm format are used. 35mm films are still produced today. They can be developed in most photo laboratories. One option for b/w images is the Ilford Delta 400*. A possible film for color pictures is the Kodak Ultramax 400*.
The color negative film is developed in the C-41 development process. This development process is offered by most laboratories.
The Zenit Junior has a built-in self-timer and a thread for a tripod. At a weight of 750 g the size of the camera is 12,9 x 7,7 x 7,6 cm. No batteries are needed to take pictures.
The Zenit Junior is no longer manufactured. The price for a used copy depends on the condition.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Focal length | 45 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 150 cm / 4.92 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/250 second to 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 12,9 x 7,7 x 7,6 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.08 x 3.03 x 2.99 inches |
| Weight | 750 Grams |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
FAQ about the Zenit Junior
Is the Zenit Junior a camera with autofocus?
No, the Zenit Junior is a rangefinder camera with manual focus. It doesn't have an autofocus function. You adjust the focus yourself using the built-in rangefinder.
What kind of film does this rangefinder camera use?
The Zenit Junior uses 35mm film, also known as Kleinbildformat. These films are still produced today and can be developed at most photo labs.
Does the camera have a light meter, and if so, what type?
Yes, it has a built-in selenium light meter. This type of meter doesn't need batteries, but its accuracy can decrease over time.
Can I use a flash with the Zenit Junior?
Yes, you can attach an external flash to the camera's PC flash sync socket. This lets you use flash photography with the camera.
How big and heavy is the little camera?
The Zenit Junior is quite compact, measuring 12.9 x 7.7 x 7.6 cm and weighing 750 grams. It's a relatively heavy camera for its size.