The Zenit Photosniper was manufactured by KMZ in the USSR. It is a 35mm SLR, various Zenit models, on a rifle-like prop designed to facilitate long focal length photography. Developed the Photosniper for the military to take photos on the battlefield. The 35mm camera is triggered with a rifle trigger.
Photosniper FS-3
The Photosniper FS-3 comes with a modified Zenit E, the Zenit ES.
Photosniper FS-12
The Photosniper FS-12 comes with a modified Zenit 12, the Zenit 12S.
Photosniper FS-12-2
The Photosniper FS-12-2 comes with a modified Zenit 12XP, the Zenit 12XPS.
Photosniper FS-122-2
The Photosniper FS-122-2 comes with a modified Zenit 122, the Zenit 122s.
Films for the Zenit Photosniper
The Zenit Photosniper exposes 35mm film, other film formats cannot be used. 35mm films are still manufactured today and are quite easy to get. Possible films for this particular camera are the Kodak Gold 200* and the AgfaPhoto APX 100*.
The development of the color film is the C-41 process. The C-41 film is offered by most photo labs. Mostly, directly with the development of the film, they also offer to make photographic prints of the images.
The B/W film must be developed in black and white chemistry. Most professional photo labs offer black and white film development and have a wide range of developers available to suit different types of film. Some labs also offer specialty developers that can achieve specific effects.
However, if you want to have complete control over the process, you can do the development yourself. To do this, it is necessary to buy the necessary chemistry and supplies online and acquire the skills needed to carry out the process. However, self-development facilities can take some space and usually require some practical experience to achieve good results.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| Estimated value / Used price | 295,43 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 7 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 232,11 Euro (251.12 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 222,81 Euro (240.29 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 287,46 Euro (310.65 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Zenit Photosniper
What kind of film does this special camera use?
The Zenit Photosniper uses 35mm film. This is a standard film size, still readily available from many retailers. You can use color or black and white film.
How is the Photosniper different from a regular camera?
It's designed like a rifle, with a trigger instead of a typical shutter button. This makes shooting with long lenses easier, particularly in challenging conditions.
Is this a professional camera?
The Photosniper was originally designed for military use, indicating a level of robustness. However, any photographer can use it; it's a 35mm SLR camera at its core.
Where can I get film developed for the device?
Most photo labs can develop 35mm film. Color film uses C-41 processing, while black and white film requires a different process. Many labs offer both.
What is the camera's purpose?
The Photosniper was originally developed for military use in photographing battlefields. Its design aids in stable shooting with long telephoto lenses.