The Zorki 6 is a rangefinder camera. It was built by KMZ near Moscow from 1958 to 1966. A total of over 380,000 units were produced.
In principle, the Zorki 6 is identical to the Zorki 5, but the film for the 35mm camera is easier to load and there is a self-timer.
Features of the Soviet camera
The camera is equipped with an M39 lens mount, which is compatible with a wide range of lenses from different manufacturers. There are many different lenses for all purposes.
The Zorki 6 is a manual focus camera, which means that the photographer must manually adjust the focus ring on the lens to bring the subject into focus. The camera’s rangefinder system allows the photographer to accurately focus on the subject, and the focusing mechanism is smooth and precise.
One of the most important features of the Zorki 6 is its shutter speed range. The camera offers six different shutter speeds: 1/500 sec, 1/250 sec, 1/125 sec, 1/60 sec, 1/30 sec, and a Bulb mode. The Bulb mode is especially useful for long exposures or for shooting in low light conditions. The Zorki 6 does not have a built-in exposure meter. So, the photographer must use an external light meter or smartphone app for metering.
The camera also has a self-timer. The self-timer is useful for self-portraits or for group shots where the photographer wants to be in the picture. The camera also has a cable release port that allows the photographer to use a remote shutter release for even more precise control of the camera. There is a thread on the bottom of the body for mounting on a tripod.
Films for the Zorki 6
Photographic films are exposed in the Zorki 6, more precisely 35mm films. 35mm films are still made today and are fairly easy to get. Two great films for the 35mm camera are the Kodak Portra 400* and the AgfaPhoto APX 100*. Both can be used to take beautiful color and black and white pictures, respectively.
The color film is designed to be developed using the C-41 process. This development process is performed by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film. You can drop off your films at most drugstore chains in Germany, for example. The exposure area of the camera is 24 mm x 36 mm.
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, 1/125 second, 1/60 second, 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| End of production | 1966 |
| Production duration | 8 years |
| Number of units produced | 380000 units |
| Estimated value / Used price | 121,57 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 | 94,37 Euro (101.75 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 105,60 Euro (113.65 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 138,13 Euro (149.37 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Zorki 6
Is the Zorki 6 easy to load film into?
Yes, compared to some older cameras, the Zorki 6 is relatively easy to load film. The design makes loading the 35mm film simpler than some similar models. It's a feature that many users appreciate.
What kind of lenses can I use with this Soviet rangefinder?
The Zorki 6 uses an M39 lens mount, meaning it's compatible with a wide variety of lenses from different manufacturers. You have a lot of choices for different photographic needs.
Does this camera have an automatic exposure setting?
No, the Zorki 6 doesn't have a built-in light meter. You'll need to use an external light meter or a smartphone app to determine the correct exposure settings before taking a picture.
How do I focus the camera?
The Zorki 6 is a manual focus camera. You adjust the focus ring on the lens manually to achieve a sharp focus. The rangefinder viewfinder helps you see exactly where your focus is.
Can I use a tripod with the camera?
Yes, the Zorki 6 has a tripod mount on the bottom. This allows you to securely attach it to a tripod for stable long exposures or other situations requiring a still shot.
What lens would you suggest is best for the zorki 6? I currently have a industar 50, 50mm f/3.5 lens. (Not the collapsible one)