The Praktica Super TL 1000 is a 35mm camera. It is a single lens reflex camera. The VEB Pentacon produced the camera from 1980 to 1984.
The lenses of the Praktica Super TL 1000 can be exchanged. Lenses with a M42 lens mount can be used with the camera. The M42 thread is standardized and manufacturer-independent lens mount, so a large number of lenses have been produced. The model has no autofocus. Therefore, you have to focus by hand.
The Praktica Super TL 1000 has a built-in light meter. The exposure meter is designed to measure exposure through the lens of the camera. The aperture and shutter speed can be freely selected by the photographer. The camera comes with a bulb mode. An external flash can be connected via hot shoe.
Films for the Praktica Super TL 1000
Without photo films, nothing works with the Praktica Super TL 1000. The camera needs 35mm films more precisely. The 35mm format is very common, which is why there are still some manufacturers and many development laboratories. Beautiful 35mm films for color or black-and-white shots are the Kodak Gold 200* and the AgfaPhoto APX 100*.
The development process for the color film is the C-41 process. This development process is carried out by all photo laboratories offering the development of 35mm films.
The Praktica Super TL 1000 offers the possibility to connect a cable release and has a thread for a tripod. The power source of the 35mm camera is one VARTA V 625 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x Varta 625 battery |
| Manufacturer | Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| End of production | 1984 |
| Production duration | 4 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 73,57 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 59 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 72,64 Euro (77.93 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 80,00 Euro (86.59 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 75,15 Euro (81.18 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Praktica Super TL 1000
Is this camera a digital or film camera?
It's a film camera, specifically a 35mm film camera. It uses standard 35mm film rolls, which are readily available. You'll need to develop the film after taking pictures.
How do I focus the lens on this SLR?
This camera doesn't have autofocus; you have to focus manually. You'll need to adjust the lens's focus ring until the image is sharp. Practice is key!
Can I use any lens with this camera?
You can use lenses with an M42 screw mount. This is a standard mount, so many lenses from different manufacturers are compatible.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, it has a built-in light meter that measures the light through the lens. This helps you determine the correct aperture and shutter speed settings for proper exposure.
What kind of batteries does the camera need?
The Praktica Super TL 1000 requires a Varta V625 battery for its light meter. These are still relatively easy to find, or you could use a compatible alternative.