The Fotoicon MTL 3 is a SLR camera. It was built in East Germany from 1978 to 1984. The producer was VEB Pentacon Dresden.
The lenses of the Fotoicon MTL 3 are interchangeable. Lenses with an M42 thread can be used with the camera. In most cases, the Pancolar 2/50 Carl Zeiss Jena can be seen on the 35 mm camera. There is no autofocus function with the Fotoicon MTL 3. The focus is set manually.
The Fotoicon MTL 3 has a built-in light meter. The correct exposure is measured through the lens of the SLR camera. The aperture and shutter speed can be freely selected. The camera comes with a bulb mode. A external flash can be connected via the PC flash port or Hot Shoe.
Films for the Fotoicon MTL 3
The 35mm format is the most common film format. Therefore, some manufacturers still produce for this format. A good choice of film is the Fujifilm Superia 400* for color photographs and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for black-and-white images.
The color film is processed in the C-41 process. The C-41 films are offered by most photo laboratories.
The negatives of Fotoicon MTL 3 have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. There is no automatic film transport. The film must be winded by hand.
The Fotoicon MTL 3 can be mounted on a tripod. A thread for a cable release is also available. In addition, there is a self-timer. The power supply for the 35mm camera is provided by 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, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x Varta 625 battery |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| End of production | 1984 |
| Production duration | 6 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 52,19 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 4 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 40,67 Euro (43.30 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Fotoicon MTL 3
Is the Fotoicon MTL 3 an automatic camera?
No, the Fotoicon MTL 3 is a manual focus camera. It doesn't have autofocus. You need to manually adjust the focus and settings yourself.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The Fotoicon MTL 3 uses interchangeable lenses with an M42 screw mount. Many lenses are compatible, including the popular Pancolar 2/50 Carl Zeiss Jena, and various zoom lenses.
How does the camera meter light?
The Fotoicon MTL 3 has a built-in light meter. It measures the light through the lens to determine the correct exposure. You can then adjust the aperture and shutter speed accordingly.
What type of film does the camera take?
This SLR uses standard 35mm film. You can use color film like Fujifilm Superia 400 or black and white film like Ilford FP4 Plus.
Can I use a flash with the device?
Yes, the Fotoicon MTL 3 has a PC flash sync terminal (or hot shoe) for connecting an external flash unit to add additional lighting to your photos.