The Praktica MTL 3 is a single lens reflex camera. It was produced between 1978 and 1984 by VEB Pentacon in the GDR.
The lens of the Praktica MTL 3 is exchangeable. This is possible trough the M42 lens mount. Often the camera comes with the Tessar 2.8/50 Carl Zeiss Jena DDR. It has no autofocus system. Therefore, you have to focus by hand.
The M42 thread is standardized and manufacturer-independent, so there is a large range of lenses. The first M42 optics was developed by Zeiss. Zeiss, Pentacon and Pentax were among others major manufacturers of M42 lenses.
The Praktica MTL 3 features a built-in light meter. As with most SLR cameras, exposure is measured trough the lens. The desired aperture and exposure time can be set by the user. The camera comes with a bulb mode. A flash unit can be used via the hot shoe or the PC flash connection.
Films for the Praktica MTL 3
The Praktica MTL 3 needs 35mm film. 35mm films are still easy to get today and are developed by most photo laboratories. A good film choice for the Praktica MTL 3 are the Agfaphoto Vista 200* (color film) and the Ilford Delta 400* (black and white film).
The development process for the color film is the C-41 process. C-41 films are developed by almost all photo laboratories.
The Praktica MTL 3 has a built-in self-timer and an option to connect a cable release. There is also a thread for a tripod. The needed energy for the camera is provided by one VARTA V 625 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
The 35 mm camera is only available in used condition. The value of a used model is primarily determined by the condition and functionality.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x Varta 625 battery |
| Manufacturer | Pentacon |
| Company name of the manufacturer | VEB Pentacon Dresden |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| End of production | 1984 |
| Production duration | 6 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 57,85 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 56 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 62,11 Euro (67.11 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 67,71 Euro (72.52 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 57,63 Euro (61.70 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Praktica MTL 3
Is the Praktica MTL 3 an automatic camera?
No, the Praktica MTL 3 is a manual focus camera. It doesn't have autofocus. You need to manually adjust the focus ring on the lens to get sharp pictures.
What kind of lenses can I use with this model?
The Praktica MTL 3 uses M42 lenses. This is a common screw mount, so many lenses from different manufacturers are compatible. It offers a wide choice of lenses.
How does the light meter work on this camera?
It has a built-in light meter that measures the light through the lens. You then manually set the aperture and shutter speed based on the meter's reading.
What type of film does the Praktica MTL 3 use?
It uses standard 35mm film, which is widely available even today. Both color and black and white 35mm films work well.
Can I use a flash with the camera?
Yes, the Praktica MTL 3 has a hot shoe and a PC flash connection, allowing you to use various flash units. You can attach external flashes for better lighting.