Pentacon PRAKTICA LTL User Manual

Praktica LTL Instructions for Use
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Praktica LTL
Instructions for Use.
We are extremely pleased that you have chosen the high-quality PRAKTICA LTL, and we wish
you every success in working with this modern reflex camera.
Before using your camera, however, we would request you to study the Instructions for Use
carefully. This will help you to avoid trouble caused by wrong handling of the equipment.
The PRAKTICA LTL is a miniature single-lens reflex camera for the 24 mm × 36 mm picture
format, with automatic exposure control and internal metering to which the shutter-speed, aperture and
film-speed settings are coupled. The measuring system employed is partially integrated, the main
measuring field , about 20 mm in diameter, being arranged in the centre of the viewfinder. The result is
perfectly accurate metering since, with the most majority of subjects, the most important details of the
image are located within this area. All the subordinate marginal sections are photometrically left aside
and cannot influence the reading.
Metering is performed with the lens stopped down to taking aperture by adjusting the diaphragm
ring on the lens mount while depressing the metering key. By means of this key the circuit is closed.
All lenses having the international PRAKTICA fitting M42×1 may be used. The automatic mechanism
in the camera causes the pressure diaphragm in the lens (APD) to operate as a spring diaphragm. This
means that only during the actual moment of exposure the diaphragm closes down to the value
obtained by means of the light meter.
The novel type of metal-bladed focal-plane shutter travels across the shorter side of the frame and
has a range of speeds from 1 sec. to 1/1000 sec. It is synchronized for the use of flash bulbs and
electronic flash units. As a result of the very rapidly moving steel curtains, the electronic flash can be
synchronized at about 1/125 sec. The centre contact makes it possible to connect camera and flash unit
without using a coble.
The PRAKTICA LTL can be supplied either with or without built-in-self-timer.
The pentaprism is firmly built in, and the focusing system, due to its Fresnel lens, reveals a finder
image of maximum corner-to-corner brightness, in which also the meter needle and the readiness
indicator are visible.
Microprism screen and groundglass circle ensure quick and perfect sharp focusing. In combination
with its wide range of accessories, the PRAKTICA LTL may be employed for a great variety of
special photographic activities.

Pentacon PRAKTICA LTL Specifications

General

Type	35mm SLR
Lens Mount	M42
Shutter Speed	1/1000 sec to 1 sec, Bulb
Exposure Metering	TTL center-weighted
Film Speed	ISO 12 to 1600
Viewfinder	Pentaprism viewfinder
Battery	PX625 (for light meter)
Shutter	Mechanical, horizontally travelling cloth focal plane shutter
Weight	Approx. 600g (body only)

Summary

Control Parts Overview

Camera Operation - Film Handling

A. Opening the Camera Back

Steps to open the camera back for film loading and unloading.

B. Inserting the Film

Guide to loading 35mm film cartridges and securing the film strip.

C. Closing the Camera Back

Procedure for securely closing the camera back after film insertion.

D. Preparing for Exposure

Initial steps to ready the camera for taking photographs, including winding.

Exposure Settings and Metering

E. Setting the Exposure Speed

How to adjust the shutter speed for correct exposure using the control dial.

F. Setting the Film Speed

Adjusting the camera to match the ISO/ASA of the loaded film.

G. Setting the Diaphragm

Adjusting the lens aperture for exposure control and depth of field.

H. Automatic Exposure Control

Explanation of the camera's built-in light metering system for exposure.

Using Lenses Without Automatic Diaphragm

Specific instructions for using lenses that lack automatic diaphragm control.

Focusing Techniques

I. Focusing Overview

Introduction to the camera's focusing systems and viewfinder components.

Focusing on Microprism Screen

Utilizing the microprism screen for sharp focus on still subjects.

Focusing on Groundglass Area

Using the groundglass area for focusing with moving subjects or close-ups.

Shutter and Timer Functions

K. Releasing and Cocking the Shutter

Procedures for actuating the shutter release and cocking the mechanism.

L. Self-Timer Operation

How to use the built-in self-timer mechanism for delayed exposures.

Film Management and Lens Compatibility

M. Changing the Film

Step-by-step guide for rewinding and replacing film cartridges.

N. Exchanging Lenses

Instructions for safely removing and attaching different lenses to the camera.

Special Photography Techniques

O. Flash Exposures

Guidelines for using flash bulbs and electronic flash units with the camera.

Camera Care and Power

P. Exchanging the Power Source

How to replace the battery powering the camera's exposure meter.

Q. Maintenance and Care

Recommendations for cleaning, protecting, and maintaining the camera's condition.

Camera Accessories (Part 1)

Everready Case

Protective case for shock and dirt resistance.

Cable Release

Accessory for long exposures, close-ups, and photomicrography.

Lens Hood

Reduces flare and protects the lens from weather.

Filters

Screw-on attachments for modifying light entering the lens.

Camera Accessories (Part 2)

Focusing Telescope

Magnifies finder image section for precise focusing.

Angle Finder

Aids viewing from various angles with correct image orientation.

Intermediate Rings

Increases picture ratio for close-up photography.

Camera Accessories (Part 3)

Reversing Ring

Allows extreme close-ups by reversing the lens.

Miniature Close-up Bellows Attachment

Enables variable magnification for close-up work.

Bellows Attachment with Focusing Slide

Provides variable image ratio for close-up photography with focusing control.

Special Intermediate Ring with Cable Release Connection

Maintains diaphragm operation with bellows and double cable release.

Camera Accessories (Part 4)

Focusing Slide

Facilitates camera-to-object distance adjustment with a tripod.

Universal Tripod

Stable support for varying camera positions and movements.

Transparency Copying Equipment

Device for making transparencies and negatives from slides.

Microscope Attachment Piece

Connects the camera to a microscope for photography.

Camera Accessories (Part 5)

Copying Stand with Lighting Equipment

Stand with lights for reproduction and close-up work.

Repro Arm with Screw Thread M49x0.75

Fitting for copying stands to mount reflex cameras.