The Praktica BCS is an SLR camera. It was produced by Pentacon from 1989 to 1990 Pentacon and sold among others also in West Germany. The production run was about 34000 units. It is very similar to the Praktica BCA, but it lacks the connection for a motor winder and exposure compensation.
The lenses of the SLR camera can be changed. A Praktica bayonet was built into the camera for this purpose. Unfortunately, the 35mm camera does not have a built-in autofocus system.
The Praktica BCS has a built-in light meter. It is designed for an ISO range of 12 to 3200. The light meter is built to measure the exposure through the lens of the camera.
The aperture can be freely selected. Which values can be set depends of course on the lens. The exposure time is set automatically by the camera. However, the exposure time is displayed in the viewfinder. There is a Bulb setting for long exposures in low light.
The Praktica BCS has a built-in self-timer. It also comes with a connection for a cable release and tripod. An external flash can be connected to the hot shoe.
Films for the Praktica BCS
35mm films are exposed in the Praktica BCS. 35mm films are still made by various producers. A color film for the 35mm camera would be the Kodak Portra 160*. A possible film for black and white images is the Ilford Delta 400*.
The color film is a negative film and is processed in the C-41 development process. This development process is available at almost every photo lab. With a normal film (135-36), 36 photos are usually possible.
Four LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are needed for the camera. This type of battery is easy to get and also relatively inexpensive.
The used price of the 35mm camera depends on the condition and functionality.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Praktica B lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 4x LR44 batteries |
| Manufacturer | Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| End of production | 1990 |
| Estimated value / Used price | 56,92 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 16 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 63,31 Euro (68.19 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 65,33 Euro (70.36 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 68,33 Euro (73.60 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Praktica BCS
Is the Praktica BCS a manual focus camera?
Yes, the Praktica BCS is a manual focus camera; it doesn't have an autofocus system. This means you need to manually adjust the focus using the lens. It's a typical feature of cameras from that era.
How do I change lenses on my 35mm camera?
The Praktica BCS uses a Praktica bayonet mount. To change lenses, simply turn the lens slightly and it will come off. Attaching a new lens is just as easy; just align it and twist.
What kind of film does this SLR use?
The Praktica BCS uses standard 35mm film. You can use both color and black and white films. Most 35mm film rolls contain 36 exposures.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, it has a built-in light meter. The meter works through the lens and is designed for ISO 12-3200 film. This helps you determine the correct exposure settings.
Can I use a flash with the Praktica BCS?
Yes, the Praktica BCS has a hot shoe for connecting an external flash. This allows you to use a flash for improved lighting in low-light situations.