The Zorki 5 is a 35mm camera. It was built by KMZ in today’s Russia from 1958 to 1959. Over 200,000 of the 50s camera were produced.
The body of the Zorki 5 was changed and slightly raised compared to its predecessors. However, the thread for the interchangeable lenses remained the same, M39.
Besides the Bulb mode, the Zorki 5 offers exposure times from 1/500 sec to 1/25 sec. There is no exposure meter, but there is a rangefinder for proper manual focusing. The 35mm film is wound on with a quick-release lever.
There are two different models of the Zorki 5, Zorki 5a and Zorki 5b, which differ slightly.
Films for the Zorki 5
The Zorki 5 uses 35mm films. These are still easy to get today and are still being developed. The film transport of the camera is mechanical and must be done manually. After each frame, the film is transported to the next frame. At the end of the film roll, usually after 36 frames, the film must be wound back into the cartridge. Only when this step has been completed may the camera back be opened and the film removed.
Nice films for black and white or color images are the AgfaPhoto APX 400* and the Agfaphoto Vista 400*. Both films give good and solid results with the rangefinder camera. Of course, there are many other films that can be used with the camera. For example, the manufacturers Ilford, Kodak, Fujfilm, Adox, Rollei or even Lomography, to name just a few, offer suitable material.
The color film is a negative film and is processed in the C-41 development process. The C-41 process is offered by almost every photo lab. Most drugstore chains in Germany offer the development of color films. In addition, the offer of many laboratories also includes the creation of prints, posters or even the digitization of negatives.
The recommended black and white film must be processed in a black and white developer. Many professional laboratories also offer this service. However, the development is usually somewhat more expensive than for color films.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M39 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second, 1/250 second, 1/100 second, 1/50 second, 1/25 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| End of production | 1959 |
| Estimated value / Used price | 134,53 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 52 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 124,92 Euro (134.22 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 144,60 Euro (155.87 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 144,08 Euro (155.87 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Zorki 5
What kind of film does this Russian camera use?
The Zorki 5 uses standard 35mm film, which is readily available today. You can use color or black and white film, and the camera's mechanical film transport system requires manual advancement after each shot.
How do I focus the camera?
This rangefinder camera doesn't have a light meter, but it uses a rangefinder for manual focusing. You'll need to adjust the focus manually using the rangefinder system to get sharp images.
Does it have automatic settings?
No, the Zorki 5 is a fully manual camera. You need to set the shutter speed and aperture manually. There are no automatic features.
What shutter speeds does the camera offer?
Besides the bulb setting, the camera provides shutter speeds ranging from 1/500th of a second to 1/25th of a second. This gives you control over exposure in various lighting conditions.
Is it easy to find film for this vintage camera?
Yes, 35mm film is widely available. Many brands, such as Kodak, Ilford, and Fujifilm, still produce it, making it easy to find film for your Zorki 5.