104 / Comprehensive instructions
Distance metering/focusing
Due to its large effective metering basis, the range-
finder on the LEICA M8 is very precise. The benefits of
this are particularly noticeable when using wide-angle
lenses with their relative steep depth of field.
The rangefinder metering field is visible as a bright,
sharply defined rectangle in the center of the
viewfinder. If you keep the large viewfinder window
(1.6) closed, only the activated bright-line frames and
this metering field remain visible. The focus can be set
using either the superimposed image or split image
method:
Superimposed image method (double image)
In a portrait, for example, aim the rangefinder meter-
ing field at the eye and turn the distance setting ring
on the lens until the contours in the metering field are
brought into line. Then choose your subject trimming.
Split image method
When taking photographs of architecture, for exam-
ple, aim the
rangefinder metering field at a vertical
edge or another clearly defined vertical line and turn
the distance setting ring on the lens until the contours
of the edge or line can be seen at the limits of the
metering field with no misalignment. Then choose your
subject trimming.
In practice, there is often no clear distinction between
the two methods. Both can be used very effectively in
combination.
Mechanical base width x viewfinder = Effective
(Distance between optical magnification base width
axes of the view- and
rangefinder windows)
69.25mm x 0.68 = approx.
47.1mm
Double image = out of focus Coincident image = in focus
Interrupted line = out of focus Continuous line = in focus
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