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Leica M 3 User Manual

Leica M 3
28 pages
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Leica M 3 Specifications

General IconGeneral
TypeRangefinder camera
Film Format35mm
Lens MountLeica M mount
MeteringNone (external meter required)
Viewfinder Magnification0.91x
Flash Sync1/50s
Weight580 g (body only)
Dimensions138 x 77 x 33.5 mm
Production Years1954 - 1966
ShutterFocal-plane shutter
Shutter Speed1s to 1/1000s, plus B
ViewfinderOptical viewfinder
Film AdvanceLever advance
Film RewindManual

Summary

Camera Operation Basics

The Transport Lever

How to tension the shutter and advance film using the lever.

The Release Button

How to press the shutter release to take a picture.

Exposure and Film Management

The Shutter Speed Dial

Controls exposure time settings for the shutter.

The Film Counter

Indicates the number of exposures made.

Lens Adjustments

The Iris Diaphragm

Controls the amount of light entering the lens via aperture.

Focus and Depth of Field

The Depth-of-Field Scale

Shows the zone of acceptable sharpness at different apertures.

Viewfinder System

The Brilliant-Frame Range-Viewfinder

Combines a viewfinder and coupled rangefinder for accurate framing and focusing.

Focusing Procedures

The Distance Scale

Setting focus distance using lens scale or rangefinder.

Distance Measurement Methods

Using coincidence and split-image for focusing.

Interchangeable Lenses and Viewfinder

Automatic Finder Adjustment

Viewfinder frames adjust for 90mm and 135mm lenses.

Viewfinder Adaptation for Lenses

Viewfinder field for 135mm and 35mm lenses.

Finder Frame Preselector

Mechanism to display different lens viewframes.

Camera Handling and Ergonomics

Holding the Camera

Proper grip for steady shots and smooth operation.

Shooting Techniques

Tips for steady shooting and changing orientation.

Advanced Camera Functions

The Delayed Action Self-Timer

Using the self-timer for delayed exposures.

LEICA Lens Range

Interchangeable Lenses List

List of available focal lengths and apertures for the LEICA M3.

Lens Management

Changing Lenses

Procedure for removing and mounting camera lenses.

Lens Care and Maintenance

The Collapsible Lenses

Operation of retractable lens designs.

Lens Coating and Care

Information on lens coatings and cleaning procedures.

Specific Lens Features

50mm Dual-Range SUMMICRON

Description of the dual-range focusing mechanism.

Camera Accessories

Ever-Ready Case

Protection and readiness provided by the ever-ready case.

Leica Filters

Use of filters for image enhancement.

Lens Hoods

Protection against flare and elements using lens hoods.

Exposure Metering

The LEICAMETER 'MC'

Introduction to the accessory exposure meter.

Attaching the LEICAMETER 'MC'

Procedure for attaching and coupling the meter to the camera.

LEICAMETER 'MC' Operation

Setting speeds and apertures using the meter.

Film Loading Procedures

Loading the LEICA

Instructions for loading film into the camera.

Film Cassette and Take-up Spool

Handling and positioning of film cassette and take-up spool.

Ensuring Correct Film Placement

Checking film guides, sprocket engagement, and winding.

Preparing for First Exposure

Advancing film to the first frame and checking rewind knob.

Film Handling and Indicators

Setting Film-Type Indicator

Indicating loaded film type and speed.

Unloading the Film

Procedure for rewinding and removing exposed film.

Film Types and Characteristics

LEICA Films Overview

Description of available color and black-and-white film types.

Flash Photography Guide

The Flash Table

Synchronization of flash units and bulbs with the LEICA M 3.

Using Flash

Guidance on flash bulb usage and guide numbers.

Hints for Color Pictures

Tips for using flash with color film.

Film Cassette Options

Cassettes for the LEICA M 3

Information on commercially available and special LEITZ cassettes.

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