Bronica SQ-A User Manual

Congratulations on your choice of the Bronica SQ-A single lens reflex camera that has been
developed to give you quality performance, simple handling convenience and extremely
useful versatility, such as required for professional photography.
The Zenza Bronica SQ-A has been designed to take full advantage of the square 6cm x 6cm
medium format. It has also been developed as a complete modular "system" camera, with a
very high degree of interchangeability in lenses, finders, focusing screens, film backs, etc.
To obtain best results from your camera, we suggest that you read this instruction manual
carefully, before you even touch the camera. Thoroughly familiarize yourself with its work-
ing parts, before loading your first roll of film, and your pleasure in using the Zenza Bronica
SQ-A will be even greater.
NOTICE
Although instructions following are based on a standard combination consisting of the
main camera body with standard lens, film back SQ 120 and waist level finder, the choice of
lens, film back and finder is left to the discretion of the photographer, who should choose
those items best suited to the type of assignments contemplated.
1
SQ-A

Bronica SQ-A Specifications

General

Type	Medium format SLR
Lens Mount	Bronica SQ bayonet mount
Film Format	120/220
Image Size	56x56 mm
Shutter Speed Range	8 sec. to 1/500 sec.
Flash Sync	1/500 sec.

Summary

ZENZA BRONICA SQ-A Specifications

Camera Type and Format

Describes the camera's type and medium format capabilities.

Frame Size Details

Specifies the physical frame dimensions of the camera.

Supported Film Types

Lists the various film formats the camera can use.

Standard Lens Specifications

Details of the included Zenzanon-S 80mm F2.8 lens.

Filter Size Compatibility

Lists filter thread sizes for different lenses.

Lens Mount System

Describes the camera's bayonet lens mount.

Focusing Mechanism

Explains the helical focusing system.

Lens Diaphragm Features

Details automatic diaphragm and depth of field preview.

Shutter Type and Speed

Information on the electronic leaf shutter and speed range.

Multiple Exposure Function

How to use the multiple exposure feature.

Mirror Lock-Up Capability

Functionality for locking up the mirror.

ZENZA BRONICA SQ-A Parts Overview

Camera Controls and Features

Identifies key components and their functions on the camera body.

Camera Operation Basics

Loading the Battery

Step-by-step guide for inserting the battery.

Battery Status Check

How to verify the battery status using the LED indicator.

Attaching and Removing Film Backs

Procedures for connecting and disconnecting film backs.

Film Handling and Loading

Film Back Construction

Details on the physical structure of the film back.

Film Loading Procedure

Initial steps for loading film into the film holder.

Film Speed and Indicators

ASA/ISO Film Speed Setting

How to set the film sensitivity using the dial.

Camera Controls and Indicators

Film Type Indicator Frame

Using the frame to track loaded film types.

Film Advance and Shutter Cocking

Procedures for advancing film and cocking the shutter.

Exposure Counter Function

Understanding the frame counter display.

Shooting Procedures

Film Unloading Process

Steps for removing exposed film from the camera.

Setting the Shutter Speed Dial

How to select shutter speeds using the dial.

Shutter and Exposure Controls

Shutter Release Button Operation

Operation and safety lock for the shutter button.

Time (T) Exposure Mode

How to perform time exposures using the T lever.

Lens Management

Exchanging Lenses

Procedures for attaching and detaching lenses.

Viewfinder and Finder Accessories

Interchanging Viewfinders

How to attach and detach different viewfinders.

Waist-Level Finder and Magnifiers

Operating the waist-level finder and its magnifiers.

Lens Settings

Setting the Aperture

How to adjust the lens aperture.

Focusing and Distance Information

Focusing Adjustments Guide

Techniques for achieving sharp focus.

Distance and Depth of Field Scales

Using distance and depth of field scales for focus.

Specialized Photography Techniques

Infrared Photography Tips

Special considerations for infrared film.

Flash Photography Guide

Guidelines for using flash with the camera.

Advanced Camera Features

Multiple Exposure Technique

How to create multiple exposures on a single frame.

Mirror Lock-Up Operation

Using the mirror lock-up feature.

Camera Accessories

Attaching the Neck Strap

How to attach the neck strap to the camera.

Camera Care and Usage Tips

Battery Information and Precautions

Important information regarding battery usage and care.

General Shooting Pointers

Tips and advice for general shooting.

Camera Maintenance

Care and Cleaning of the SQ-A

Recommendations for cleaning and maintaining the camera.