Praktica BM is a camera from Pentacon. It is a single lens reflex camera from Pentacon. It is one of the last models in the company’s history. The only difference between the Praktica BMS is the lack of a self-timer.
The Praktica BM offers the possibility of interchangeable lenses. It features a Praktica B mount. The lens is focused manually. The Praktica BM does not have an autofocus system.
For photographing, the Praktica BM an exposure meter. The exposure meter was designed to work with films between ISO 12 and ISO 3200. The precise exposure is measured trough the lens (TTL) of the 35mm SLR. The aperture and shutter speed can be freely selected by the photographer.
If you want to take long time pictures, there is the bulb-setting. The shutter stays open as long as desired. An external flash can be connected via hot shoe.
Films for the Praktica BM
For taking pictures with the Praktica BM, 35mm films are needed. The 35mm format is very common, which is why there are still some manufacturers and many development laboratories. For black-and-white shots, you can go to with the AgfaPhoto APX 400*. For color images, the Fujifilm Superia 400* is a possibility.
The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. The C-41 process is offered by almost all photo labs. The exposure area of the camera is 24 mm x 36 mm big. The film must be winded manually by the photographer.
The Praktica BM has a thread for a tripod and cable release. The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 13,8 x 8,7 x 4,9 cm. At this size her weight is 480 grams. The power source of the 35mm camera is V28PX (eBay / Amazon*).
The Praktica BM is no longer produced. The condition and functionality of the camera determine the price for a used copy.
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 4 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x V28PX battery |
| Size | 13,8 x 8,7 x 4,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.43 x 3.43 x 1.93 inches |
| Weight | 470 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| Estimated value / Used price | 40,25 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 2023 | 83,33 Euro (89.84 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 114,58 Euro (123.39 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 46,63 Euro (49.79 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Praktica BM
Is the Praktica BM a digital camera or does it use film?
The Praktica BM is a film camera. It uses 35mm film, a common format still available today from various manufacturers. You'll need to develop the film at a photo lab after shooting.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
The Praktica BM has manual focus. You'll need to adjust the focus ring on the lens yourself. It doesn't have autofocus.
Can I use a flash with the Praktica BM?
Yes, the Praktica BM has a hot shoe, allowing you to connect an external flash. This gives you more control over lighting your photos.
What kind of batteries does the camera need?
The Praktica BM uses a V28PX battery. These might require searching online or specialty stores as they are not a common modern battery type.
Does the camera have a light meter to help with exposure?
Yes, the Praktica BM includes a built-in light meter designed for ISO 12-3200 film. It measures light through the lens (TTL) to help you set the correct exposure.