Ricoh SLR kit with fast 55mm f/1.4 standard lens and TTL metering.
The Ricoh TLS401 with 55mm f/1.4 is a 35mm SLR kit featuring Ricoh's through-the-lens metering body with a fast standard lens. The f/1.4 aperture provides a bright viewfinder and excellent subject isolation capability. The TLS401 was part of Ricoh's SLR range that offered quality photography at accessible prices.
The 55mm f/1.4 lens delivers a fast standard perspective with the slightly longer-than-50mm focal length that provides subtly tighter framing many photographers prefer for portraits. Wide open at f/1.4 the lens produces pleasant bokeh, and stopped down it delivers sharp results across the frame.
Build quality is solid with metal construction and the reliable mechanical quality that Japanese SLR manufacturers achieved during the 1970s. The camera uses a screw-mount system compatible with M42 or proprietary Ricoh thread lenses depending on the specific variant. TTL metering provides convenient exposure guidance.
On the used market, the Ricoh TLS401 with 55mm f/1.4 offers a fast standard lens SLR kit at very modest prices. For vintage camera enthusiasts and beginners wanting an affordable film SLR with a fast standard lens, it provides a functional and enjoyable shooting experience at negligible cost.