Praktica EE 3 is an East German 35mm camera. It’s a single-lens reflex camera. The VEB Pentacon built it from 1979 to 1980 in the GDR.
The lenses of Praktica EE 3 are interchangeable. She comes with an M42 thread. It is necessary to focus the lens manually on the desired subject.
The 35mm camera has an exposure meter. It was designed for work with films with a ISO of 12 to 1600. As with most SLR cameras, exposure is measured trough the lens. The aperture and shutter speed can be selected by the photographer as desired. The Bulb mode can be used for long exposures. With the PC flash port and the hot shoe it is possible to use a flash.
Films for the Praktica EE 3
The Praktica EE 3 exposes 35mm films. The 35mm format is the most common film format. Therefore, some manufacturers still produce for this format. For black-and-white shots, you can go to with the AgfaPhoto APX 100*. For color images, the Fujifilm Superia 200* is a possibility.
The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. This development process is carried out by all photo laboratories offering the development of 35mm films.
The exposure area of the Praktica EE 3 has a size of 24 mm x 36 mm.
In the Praktica EE 3 is a thread for a tripod built-in. In addition, there is a connector for a cable release and a self-timer. The camera needs 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 | 1980 |
FAQ about the Praktica EE 3
Is the Praktica EE 3 a digital camera or a film camera?
The Praktica EE 3 is a film camera, specifically a 35mm film camera. It uses standard 35mm film rolls, which are still available from various manufacturers. This means you'll need to get your film developed at a photo lab after shooting.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
This camera uses manual focusing. You'll need to adjust the focus ring on the lens until the subject is sharp. There's no autofocus feature.
What kind of lenses can I use with the camera?
The Praktica EE 3 uses M42 lenses, which means you can use a wide variety of lenses. It’s not limited to Praktica brand lenses. Many other manufacturers made lenses with this mount.
Can I use a flash with my camera?
Yes, the Praktica EE 3 has both a PC flash sync and a hot shoe, allowing you to use various flash units. This offers flexibility for shooting in low-light conditions.
What type of battery does the camera need?
The camera uses a VARTA V21 PX battery to power the light meter. These batteries are still readily available, but you may need to search online or at specialty stores.