The Zenit TTL is an SLR camera. It was produced by KMZ from 1977 to 1985. It was also manufactured by MMZ (BelOMO) in the USSR.
The lens of the Zenit TTL is interchangeable. It comes with the M42 thread. The Helios-44M 2/58 is often the standard lens. M42 lenses are attached to the camera by screw thread. The first M42 lens was developed by Zeiss. Zeiss, Pentax, Beyer-Optik and Pentacon, among others, produced lenses for the screw thread. There is no autofocus function on the Zenit TTL. The focus is set manually.
The camera comes with a light meter. As with most SLR cameras, the exposure is metered through the lens. The exposure time and aperture can be freely selected. The 35 mm camera has a bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter is open for a variable time. The use of an external flash unit is possible via the PC flash socket. The flash can be attached to the cold shoe.
Films for the Zenit TTL
What is needed for the Zenit TTL is 35mm film. Films of this format are still readily available today and are still being developed. One possibility for B&W images is the AgfaPhoto APX 400*. A possible film for color images is the Kodak Ultramax 400*.
The development of colour film is the C-41 process. C-41 films can be developed by most photo labs. The black and white film must be processed in a suitable black and white developer. This includes Kodak XTOL or Rodinal, for example.
The Zenit TTL exposes an area of 24 mm x 36 mm. With the size of the exposure area, 36 photos usually fit on a normal film (135-36). There is no automatic film transport. The film must be rewound by hand.
A tripod can be connected to the Zenit TTL. A cable release can also be used with the camera. Additionally, the self-timer can be used for taking pictures. A battery is required for the exposure meter.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| End of production | 1985 |
| Production duration | 8 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 82,61 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 52 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 93,72 Euro (100.66 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 90,85 Euro (97.42 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 88,67 Euro (95.25 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Zenit TTL
Is the Zenit TTL a difficult camera to use for beginners?
The Zenit TTL is a manual focus camera, so it requires some learning. However, its basic functions are straightforward, and many resources are available online to help beginners get started. It's a great camera for learning the fundamentals of photography.
What kind of lenses can I use with this SLR?
The Zenit TTL uses M42 lenses, which are a screw-mount type. Many manufacturers made lenses for this mount, including Zeiss, so there's a wide variety of options available, both new and used.
Does the camera have automatic settings for exposure?
No, the Zenit TTL doesn't have automatic exposure. You manually set the aperture and shutter speed using the built-in light meter as a guide. This gives you full creative control over your images.
How do I advance the film in this camera?
This 35mm camera doesn't have an automatic film advance. You'll need to manually wind the film after each shot using the film advance lever. This is a common feature of older cameras.
Can I use a flash with the Zenith TTL?
Yes, you can use a flash with the Zenit TTL. It has a PC sync socket for connecting external flash units, and a hot shoe for mounting them.