Apparatus for the automatic positioning of at least two or for the automatic selection from at least three cameras (K) coupled for three-dimensional image recording, wherein this apparatus has in addition to the coupled cameras: a device for distance measurement (EM), which is configured such that it can measure the distances of relevant points (O) in the object space (OR) relative to the recording apparatus (A) and supply corresponding output signals, wherein the relevant points (O) can be selected manually or automatically, a computer unit (RE), which is configured such that it can calculate the parameters such as stereo base, swivel angle, correction parameters and internal parameters of the cameras (K) and a positioning device (P), by means of which the cameras (K) can be adjusted depending on the calculated parameters, and a switching apparatus (S), which together with the computer unit (RE) can form a single unit which can effect a selection of camera bundles depending on the size of the stereo base.