The Praktica DTL 3 is a SLR camera. It was built by the VEB Pentacon Dresden from 1979 to 1982 in the GDR.
The lenses of Praktica DTL 3 are interchangeable. Lenses with an M42 thread can be used with the camera. The SLR has no autofocus. The lens is focused manually.
The 35 mm camera has a built-in sensor for measuring the precise exposure. The exposure meter is designed to measure exposure through the lens of the camera. The shutter speed and aperture can be selected by the photographer. The 35mm camera comes with a bulb mode. An external flash can be used via the hot shoe or PC flash port.
Films for the Praktica DTL 3
The Praktica DTL 3 exposes 35mm film. These are still easy to get today and development services are still around. A good choice for color and black-and-white pictures is the Kodak Ultramax 400* and the Ilford HP5*.
The color film is a negative film and is processed in the C-41 development process. This development process is offered by most laboratories.
The exposure area of the Praktica DTL 3 is 24 mm x 36 mm big. With this exposure area, normally, a 35mm film (135-36) will fit at least 36 photos.
A tripod can be attached to the Praktica DTL 3. A cable release can also be used with the camera. In addition, the self-timer can be used to take pictures. The power supply is provided by one VARTA V21 PX battery.
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 V21 PX battery |
| Manufacturer | Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| End of production | 1982 |
| Production duration | 3 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 218,60 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 5 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 35,78 Euro (37.88 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 39,50 Euro (42.21 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 28,04 Euro (30.31 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Praktica DTL 3
Is the Praktica DTL 3 an automatic camera?
No, the Praktica DTL 3 is a manual focus camera. You adjust the focus and exposure settings yourself. It doesn't have autofocus.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The Praktica DTL 3 uses interchangeable lenses with an M42 screw mount. Many lenses are compatible with this mount, offering a wide variety of options.
How do I control the exposure on this model?
It has a built-in light meter that helps you determine the correct exposure. You then manually set the aperture and shutter speed accordingly.
What type of film does the camera use?
This is a 35mm film camera; it uses standard 35mm film rolls, both color and black and white, which are readily available.
Can I use a flash with this camera?
Yes, you can use external flash units. The Praktica DTL 3 has a hot shoe and a PC flash connection to attach one.