The Praktica Sport Nova is a compact camera for quick snapshots. It is typical for this type of cameras from the 1990s. This model does not have much in common with the SLR cameras from the GDR.
Unlike cameras with interchangeable lenses, the lens of this camera has a fixed connection to the camera body, similar to a smartphone, and cannot be replaced. The focal length of the lens is fixed at 35mm and the maximum aperture is f/3.5. There are no manual focus settings on the camera, which means that manual focusing on the subject is not possible.
The 35mm photo camera is equipped with a light meter and has automatic exposure control. The automatic sets the aperture and exposure time automatically. The sensitivity of the film is set via the DX coding on the cartridge. Earlier model variants do not have this function. Instead, there is a setting option on the front for ISO 100/200 and ISO 400.
A flash is built in for pictures in low light or poor lighting conditions. The flash can be used in an automatic mode or as fill-in flash. It can also be turned off.
The dimensions of the Praktica Sport Nova are 12.8 x 7.2 x 4.5 cm. At the same time, it weighs 205 grams. The housing is black and made of plastic.
The photo camera requires two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*), which provide power for the functions.
Films for the Praktica Sport Nova
According to the instruction manual, the Praktica Sport Nova is loaded with 35mm film. 35mm films are still offered by various manufacturers and can also be developed without problems. The film transport is automated on this model. After each exposure, the motor transports the film to the next free area.
Available photo films for the Praktica Sport Nova, which can be easily obtained from online retailers, are the Fujifilm Superia 400* for magical color shots and the Ilford XP2 Super* for brilliant B&W shots. Both films have DX encoding on the cartridge.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 12,8 x 7,2 x 4,5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.04 x 2.83 x 1.77 inches |
| Weight | 205 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 21,28 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 8 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 17,13 Euro (18.40 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 17,81 Euro (18.40 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 20,33 Euro (21.65 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Praktica Sport Nova
What type of lens does the Praktica Sport Nova have, and can it be changed?
The camera features a fixed 35mm lens; it's not interchangeable, similar to a smartphone camera. This means you cannot swap lenses for different focal lengths or apertures.
Does this compact camera offer manual focus capabilities?
No, the Praktica Sport Nova does not allow for manual focus adjustment. The focusing is entirely automatic.
How does the light meter and exposure work on the device?
It has an automatic exposure system that determines both aperture and shutter speed. The film speed is set automatically via DX coding, or manually on earlier models.
What kind of power source does the small camera require?
The Praktica Sport Nova runs on two standard AA batteries. These provide the power for all the camera's functions.
What are the dimensions and weight of this 35mm camera?
Measuring 12.8 x 7.2 x 4.5 cm and weighing 205 grams, the Praktica Sport Nova is a lightweight and compact camera.