MP 0.72 - Camcorder LEICA - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL MP 0.72 LEICA

Black and silver vintage camera with lens and gold coin accessories (no visible text or symbols)

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21 22 LEIVA CASSIN NARE IN CHINA 23 28 27 26 25 24

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English instructions

pages 54 - 107

Inhaltsverzeichnis

CE-Hinweis......u6

Vorwort ....1

Diagram illustrating camera cable fastening technique with magnified views showing rope knot and adjustment arrows

Three-panel illustration showing a mechanical component with a black spring, marked with red and pink symbols (no text or labels)

Die Stromversorgung

Duracell D 357 (10 L 14) Duracell DL				1/3 N
Everready EPX 76 Kodak K 58 L
Kodak KSX 76 Philips CR				1/3 N
Maxell	SR 44	Ucar		2 L 76
National SR 44		Varta	CR	1/3 N
Panasonic	SR 44
Philips	357
Ray-o-vac	357
Sony	SR 44
Ucar	EPX 76
Varta	V 76 PX

Auf

Close-up of hands holding a vintage camera with lens and control buttons (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of hands holding a vintage camera with lens and strap (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of a mechanical device with a metallic knob and lever (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of hands holding a camera lens, no visible text or symbols on the lens or background

Close-up of hands holding a camera lens, no visible text or symbols on the lens or background

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Cross-sectional view of a mechanical component showing layered structure (no text or symbols visible)

Gegenlichtblenden

Black-and-white photo of a person holding a vintage camera (no visible text or symbols)

Black-and-white photo of a person taking a photo of a vintage camera (no visible text or symbols)

Black-and-white beach scene with palm trees, a sailboat, and a geometric overlay (no text or symbols)

50 mm + 75 mm

Black-and-white beach scene with palm trees, a small boat docked, and geometric pink overlay (no text or symbols)

28 mm ^*+ 90 mm

Close-up of a vintage camera with visible lens and adjustment knobs (no text or symbols)

Close-up of a camera lens and optical component with no visible text or symbols

Stylized illustration of a human eye with black outlines and gray inner circles, set against a pink background (no text or symbols)

Simple line drawing of an eye with eyebrow and pupil, set against a pink background (no text or symbols)

Abstract geometric composition with a black vertical split between two white squares on a pink background (no text or symbols)

Abstract geometric composition with pink background, white rectangle, and black vertical stripe (no text or symbols)

Close-up of a black and silver camera body with a circular aperture and adjustment knobs (no text or symbols visible)

Simple geometric diagram with a central square and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

Simple geometric diagram with a central circle and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

24 mm 21 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central circle and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

Simple geometric diagram with concentric rectangles and a central black square (no text or symbols)

90 mm28 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central circle and two horizontal lines, no text or symbols present.

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and two horizontal lines, no text or symbols present.

135 mm3 5 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines inside a rectangle (no text or symbols)

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines inside a rectangle (no text or symbols)

75 mm50 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central square and concentric circles, no text or symbols present.

28 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present.

35 mm

Simple geometric diagram with concentric circles and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

50 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and surrounding dashed rectangles (no text or symbols)

Simple geometric diagram with concentric circles and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

24 mm 24 mm21 mm

Simple circular diagram with a central black square and horizontal lines, labeled '21 mm' at bottom left (no text or symbols within the diagram itself)

Simple diagram with a central black square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present.

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present.

90 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and two vertical lines, no text or symbols present.

28 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and three horizontal lines, no text or symbols present.

90 mm

Simple geometric diagram with nested rectangles and a central black square (no text or symbols)

135 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and gray circle, enclosed by two horizontal lines (no text or symbols)

35 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present.

135 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines, no text or symbols present.

75 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines, no text or symbols present.

50 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines, no text or symbols present.

75 mm

Black-and-white photo of the Great Pyre and Giza pyramids in a desert landscape, with no visible text or symbols.

Black-and-white museum exhibit featuring a sculpted figure in traditional attire, displayed on stands with no visible text or symbols.

Black and white photo of a Liuka flash unit mounted on a camera (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of a vintage camera lens assembly (no visible text or symbols)

Objektivhalter M

Close-up of a vintage camera with lens and screen (no visible text or symbols)

Close-up of a metallic camera module with control knobs and a dial (no visible text or symbols)

Sucherlupe

Black and silver vintage camera with lens and external frame (no visible text or symbols)

LEICA MOTOR M

Front view of a silver and black vintage camera with lens (no visible text or symbols)

LEICAVIT M

Close-up of a metallic mechanical component with a dial indicator (no visible text or symbols)

Black and white photo of a vintage-style camera with lens and frame (no visible text or symbols)

Handgriff M

Two black athletic bags with straps, one partially filled and one partially open (no visible text or symbols)

Taschen

- Messfeld....26/34-35

Zeit/Blenden-Kombination,

Leica Customer Service

The CE identification of our products documents adherence to the fundamental requirements of the valid EU guidelines.

Warning notice

Modern electronic elements react sensitively to electrostatic discharge.

As people can easily pick up charges of thousands of volts, by walking on synthetic carpets for example, a discharge can occur when you touch your LEICA MP, particularly if it is placed on a conductive surface.

If only the camera housing is affected, this discharge is harmless to the electronics. However, despite built-in safety circuits, the outer contacts, such as the battery or rear panel contacts, should not be touched if at all possible for safety reasons.

For any cleaning of the contacts, do not use an optical micro-fiber cloth (synthetic); use a cotton or linen cloth instead. Before touching the contacts, you can make sure you discharge any electrostatic charge by deliberately touching a heating or water pipe (conductive, earthed material).

You can also avoid soiling and oxidisation of the contacts by storing your Leica closed in a dry place.

Foreword

Dear customer

Leica would like to thank you for purchasing the LEICA MP and congratulate you on your choice.

With this unique view and rangefinder camera, you have made an excellent selection.

We wish you a great deal of pleasure and success using your new Leica.

In order to make best use of all the opportunities offered by this high performance camera, we recommend that you first of all read these instructions.

Contents

CE notice 54

Foreword 55

Designation of parts 58

Viewfinder displays 59

Attaching the carrying strap .... 60

Power supply 61

- Compatible batteries .... 61

- Inserting and changing the batteries. . . . . . . 61

- Automatic battery check .... 62

- Tips on battery use 63

Shutter release button....64

Shutter speed dial 64

Quick wind lever 65

Changing the film 66

- Opening the camera 66

- Loading a film 67

- Closing the camera 67

- Winding to the 1st frame. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

- Rewinding and removing the film ..... 68

Setting the film speed 69

- The following settings are possible . . . . . . . 70

Mounting a lens. 70

Removing a lens....71

Structure of Leica M lenses....71

- Distance setting ring ..... 72

- Aperture setting ring ..... 72

- Depth of field scale ..... 73

- Lens hoods 74

- Use of older Leica M lenses .....74

Holding the camera correctly ..... 75

Bright-line view- and rangefinder....76

Image frame selector....78

Distance metering 80

- Superimposed image method (double image) .. 80

- Split image method ..... 80

Exposure metering 82

- Turning on the exposure meter ..... 82

- Setting the exposure / an appropriate shutter speed/aperture combination ..... 83

- The B setting / Turning off the exposure meter....84

- Exposure meter metering range ..... 84

- Working below the metering range ..... 84

- Metering diagram 85

- Metering field orientation in the viewfinder 86/88-89

- General notes on exposure metering ..... 90

Flash mode 92
- Compatible flash units....92
- Attaching and connecting the flash unit .... 93
System accessories for the LEICA MP.....94
- Interchangable lenses ..... 94
- Filters 94
- Lens Carrier M. 95
- Viewfinder for 21/24/28mm Lenses ..... 95
- Viewfinder Magnifier M1.25x....96
- Correction lenses 97
- LEICA MOTOR M 97
- LEICAVIT M 98
- Detachable rewind crank....98
- Handgrip M 99
- Cases. 99

Maintenance tips for your Leica camera and lenses .... 100
Index 102
Technical data 104
Other Leica products....106
- Projectors .... 106
- Binoculars and spotting scopes ..... 106

Leica Academy 106
Leica on the Internet 107
Leica Information Service ..... 107
Leica Customer Service....107

Designation of parts

1. Bottom cover locking pin
2. Battery compartment cover
3. Lens release button
4. Eyelets for carrying strap
5. Rewind release lever
6. Automatic exposure counter
7. Shutter release button
8. Cable release thread

9. Quick wind lever for cocking the shutter and film winding (folded out into ready position when taking photographs)

10. Shutter speed dial with locking settings for:

11. Manually adjustable shutter speeds of 1s to 1/1000s

12. Synchronisation time of 1/50s for flash mode

13. B/OFF for long exposures and deactivation of exposure metering

14. Rangefinder window

15. a. Accessory shoe with b. Central contact for flash photographs

16. Bright line frame illumination window

17. Viewfinder window with reflective strips for improved LED visibility in very bright conditions and engraved viewfinder magnification factors

18. Pull-out rewind button

19. Fixed ring with
    a. Index for distance setting
    b. Red reference dot for lens alignment
    c. Depth of field scale
20. Distance setting ring
21. Aperture setting ring
22. White index point for aperture setting
23. Image frame selector
24. Viewfinder window
25. Contact socket for flash units with cord connection
26. Rear panel
27. Tripod thread A 1/4 DIN 4503 (1/4").
28. Bottom cover
29. Index point for film speed setting
30. Film speed dial (ISO 6 to 6400)
31. Locking toggle for bottom cover
32. Contacts for transmission of film speed setting
33. Take-up spool
34. Coupling for motorised or external mechanical film winding
35. Schematic illustration for inserting the film

Viewfinder displays

A. LEDS (Light Emitting Diodes)

Two triangular and one circular LED:

• Jointly used as light balance for exposure compensation,
• Left triangular LED used as a warning if below the metering range.

Battery-shaped LED:

• for battery warning display.

B. Bright line frame for 50mm and 75mm (example)

C. Metering field for focusing

Attaching the carrying strap

Three-panel diagram showing mechanical assembly steps: press, cross mark, and warning symbol (no text or labels)

Power supply

For exposure metering, the LEICA MP needs two 1.5 volt silver oxide button cells or a 3 volt type DL 13 N lithium battery.

Lithium batteries are particularly suitable if the camera will often not be used for long periods or to carry as a spare, as they can be stored for years with almost no loss of capacity.

Compatible batteries
Silver oxide button cells Lithium batteries

Duracell D 357 (10 L 14) Duracell DL			1/3 N
Ever Ready EPX 76 Kodak K 58 L
Kodak KSX 76 Philips	CR		1/3 N
Maxell SR 44	Ucar		2 L 76
National SR 44	Varta	CR	1/3 N
Panasonic SR 44
Philips 357
Ray-o-vac 357
Sony SR 44
Ucar EPX 76
Varta V 76 PX

Open Close

Inserting and changing the batteries

1. Unscrew the battery compartment cover (2) anticlockwise.

Note:

A second battery compartment cover is included with the camera. In contrast to the corrugated edge of the one shown in the figures, this one has a slit, which allows it to be unscrewed and screwed on using a coin.

Close-up of hands holding a vintage camera with lens and control buttons (no visible text or symbols)

1. Remove any residual oxidation from the battery/ies with a clean cloth and
2. Insert the battery/ies into the holder on the cover with the positive pole pointing upwards (as indicated).
3. Then screw the cover with the inserted batteries back into the camera clockwise.
4. To remove the batteries, follow these instructions in reverse order.

At room temperature and with a metering time of 14s per exposure, a new set of batteries will last for approximately 100 36-exposure films, i.e. around 3600 exposures (according to Leica testing standards).

Automatic battery check

If the battery-shaped LED lights up in addition to the light balance LEDs (A), the batteries will soon need to be replaced. However, accurate exposure metering is still possible at that point.

If the batteries are too weak to guarantee the camera's electronic exposure metering function, the battery-shaped LED only lights up while the shutter release is pressed down to the pressure point, or the displays disappear altogether.

In such cases, you can continue taking photographs with exposure settings based on an estimate or using an external manual exposure meter.

Note:

Oxidation of the battery surfaces can break the circuit and extinguish the LEDs. In this case, remove the batteries and clean them with a clean cloth. If necessary, also clean the camera's internal contacts.

Tips on battery use

• Do not use new and used batteries or batteries of different power or from different manufacturers together.
• The battery contacts must always be kept clean.
• Batteries should never be put into a fire, recharged, broken apart, taken to pieces or heated.
• Used batteries should be removed as soon as possible. They should not be thrown in the normal, household waste as they contain hazardous materials that are harmful to the environment.
• To ensure that they are properly recycled, they should be returned to the dealer or disposed of as special waste (at a collection point).
• If the camera is not going to be used for a long time, the batteries should be removed.
• Batteries should be stored in a cool dry place.

10 7 8 9

Shutter release button

The shutter release button (7) has a pressure point. Pressing it lightly as far as the pressure point activates exposure metering, as long as the shutter is cocked. When the shutter release button is released, the metering system and the display in the viewfinder remain activated for around 14s longer (for more details, refer to the sections under "Exposure metering" on p. 82).

Pressing past the pressure point releases the shutter.

The shutter release button should be pressed gently - and with constant pressure, until the shutter is released with a soft click.

The shutter release button has a standard thread for a cable release (8).

Shutter speed dial

The LEICA MP's shutter speed dial (10) can be used to select shutter speeds from 1/1000s to 1s and, in the 12 position marked in orange or red ^1 , the synchronisation speed of 1/50s.

The B/OFF position, also marked in orange or red ^1 , combines two functions:

- Exposure meter is turned off.

- If the shutter release button (7) is pressed when set to this position, the shutter remains open – for long exposures – for as long as the shutter release is held down.

All positions can be felt clicking into place, none of them are locked.

1 For optimum readability, these engravings are orange on black chromium plated cameras and red on silver chromium plated cameras.

Notes:

Intermediate values may not be used.

Between the 1000 and B/OFF positions there is a stop, so that other settings are only possible by turning the dial anticlockwise from the 1000 position or clockwise from the B/OFF position.

When transporting the camera, e.g. in a bag, and if the camera will not be used for a long time, if should be turned off, i.e. set to B/OFF.

Quick wind lever

The quick wind lever (9) is used to wind the film, the cock the shutter and automatically advance the exposure counter. The film can be wound either by pressing the lever as far as it will go or by pressing the quick wind lever several times. It can be folded out and left in its "ready position" for quick access.

28 1

Changing the film

Always begin by checking that a film is not already loaded by turning the pull-out rewind button (15) in the direction of the arrow. Any resistance indicates film in the camera; if so, proceed as described in the section "Rewinding and removing the film" on page 68.

Take the camera in your left hand, so that the bottom cover is facing upwards.

Opening the camera

1. Fold up the toggle (28) on the bottom cover (25).

2. Turn it to the left.

3. Lift off the bottom cover.

4. Open the hinged rear panel (23).

30 31 32 29 23

Note:

When the rear panel is open, three contacts (29) for transmission of the set film speed to the exposure metering system are visible on the panel and on the camera housing. These contacts are gold plated and therefore protected from corrosion and extremely insensitive to soiling. Special care is not therefore necessary.

However, when changing the film, you should ensure that severe impurities or direct wetting from raindrops etc. are avoided.

Close-up of hands holding a vintage camera with lens and strap (no visible text or symbols)

Loading a film

1. Take the film cartridge in the right hand and insert it around halfway into the appropriate chamber in the camera.
2. Take hold of the film leader and, as shown in the schematic diagram (32) inside the housing, insert it into the take up spool (30).
3. Then carefully press the film cartridge and film leader into the camera with the fingertips.

Notes:

As with any ready to use film, the leader must be trimmed.

If the leader is pulled out so far that it extends a little way out of one of the slits on the opposite side of the take-up spool, this does not interfere with the camera's function. It is only in conditi-

ons of frost that the film has to be loaded exactly in accordance with the schematic diagram, i.e. the leader may only be held by one slit on the take-up spool, so that the protruding end of the films cannot snap off.

Warning:

The winding of the film should not be checked with the camera open, as the bottom cover is designed in such a way that replacing it on the camera brings the film into the correct position.

Closing the camera

1. Close the hinged rear panel.
2. Lower the bottom cover onto the locking pin (1) on the side of the camera.
3. Close it, ensuring that the rear panel is completely pressed in so that the bottom cover holds it in place.
4. Lock with the toggle.

Winding to the 1st frame

1. Wind the film forward one frame using the quick wind lever (9) and release the shutter.

2. Then tense the film by carefully turning the pull-out rewind button (15) in the direction of the arrow. The film is properly wound if the rewind button turns in the opposite direction to the arrow when the quick wind lever is operated again.

3. Finally, release the shutter again and cock the shutter a third time. The exposure counter (6) indicates 1 and, once the film speed has been checked or set (see the corresponding sections starting on p. 69 for details), the camera is ready to use.

5

Close-up of a mechanical device with a metallic knob and a small screen (no visible text or symbols)

Rewinding and removing the film

If the film has been exposed up to the last frame, the quick wind lever can no longer be operated. Before removing the film, it must be rewound into the film cartridge.

To do this:

1. Move the rewind release lever (5) to R.
2. Pull out the rewind button (max. 11mm) and

3. turn it clockwise (in the direction of the arrow) until the film has been pulled off of the take-up spool, after having felt and overcome slight resistance.

4. Open the bottom cover.

5. Open the rear panel.
6. Remove the film cartridge.

If a film is not correctly attached to the cartridge spool, e.g. when using bulk film, it can happen that the end of the film is torn off and has to be removed from the take-up spool.

To do this:

1. Remove the camera's bottom cover in a completely dark room.
2. Hold the camera so that the open bottom cover is facing downwards.
3. Operate the quick wind lever slowly several times, until the film comes out of the camera by itself so that you can take hold of it and remove it. If necessary, lightly tap the camera on your hand to assist you.

27 26

Setting the film speed

Using the setting dial (27), you can select the film speed by setting one of the values in the range ISO 6 to 6400. (ISO is the international designation for film speeds.)

To do this, turn the locking dial until the desired value is aligned with the white index point (26).

The following settings are possible
Scale ISO-Speed (ASA/DIN)

6 6/ 9°
-8/10°
-10/11°
12 12/12°
-16/13°
-20/14°
25 25/15°
-32/16°
-40/17°
50 50/18°
-64/19°
-80/20°
100 100/21°
-125/22°
-160/23°
200 200/24°
-250/25°
-320/26°
400 400/27°
-500/28°
-640/29°
800 800/30°
-1000/21°
-1250/32°
1600 1600/33°
-	2000/34°
-	2500/35°
3200	3200/36°
-	4000/37°
-	5000/38°
6400	6400/39°

Close-up of hands holding a camera lens, no visible text or symbols on the lens or background

Mounting a lens

1. Hold the lens by the fixed ring (16).
2. Align the red index dot for lens alignment (16b) on the lens with the unlocking button (3) on the camera housing.
3. Then, while keeping it aligned vertically, insert the lens directly into position.
4. Turn the lens slightly clockwise, and you will hear and feel it click into place.

Close-up of hands holding a camera lens, no visible text or symbols on the lens or background

Removing a lens

1. Hold the lens by the fixed ring (16).
2. Press down the unlocking button (3) on the camera housing.
3. Turn the lens to the left until its index button (16b) is aligned with the unlocking button.
4. Carefully remove the lens from the camera body, keeping it aligned vertically.

Note:

With a film loaded, you should change the lens in the shadow of your own body, as direct sunlight can result in light getting in through the shutter.

18 17 16 c 16 19 16 a 16 b

Structure of Leica M lenses

Leica M lenses have a fixed ring (16) with an index for distance setting (16a), a red index dot for lens alignment in changing lenses (16b) and a depth of field scale (16c), a rotating distance setting ring (17) and an aperture setting ring (18) along with the corresponding white index point (19).

Distance setting ring

The distance setting ring (17) indicates the distance currently set and, in conjunction with the depth of field scale (16c), the depth of field range.

For more details about setting the distance, refer to the section "Distance metering" on page 80.

Aperture setting ring

The aperture figures are standardised internationally. They are set in such a way that the quantity of light reaching the film is reduced by half each time you stop down from one aperture value to the next. One aperture level corresponds to one level on the shutter speed setting dial (9).

In a similar way to the shutter speeds, the aperture setting ring (17) on the lens audibly clicks into place at each value (on most lenses at half values). This means that, with a little practice, you can set the aperture even in the dark.

The direction of rotation of the aperture ring corresponds to the exposure meter displays in the viewfinder.

For example, if the left-hand triangular LED lights up, rotation in the direction of the arrow, i.e. to the right, leads to the required, larger, i.e. more open, aperture (lower aperture value).

For more details about setting the correct exposure, refer to the section: "Exposure metering" on page 82.

1 2.5 3.8 M T1 6 10 1.5 2 3.5 mm Feat 10 16 10 2 3.5 mm Feat 10 16 10 2 3.5 mm Feat

Depth of field scale

The plane - parallel to the film - to which the lens is set, is depicted with maximum sharpness. This maximum sharpness gradually diminishes in front of and behind the set plane, which means that there is a certain depth that is reproduced sharply in the picture: this is the depth of field. It depends on the distance, the focal length of the lens (together these give the enlargement) and the set aperture. Stopping down, i.e. setting a higher value, increases the depth of field while stopping up, i.e. setting a lower value, reduces it. With the depth of field scale (16c) it is possible to read off the depth of field range at the currently set distance on the distance setting ring (17).

For example, if the LEICA SUMMILUX-M 50mm f/1.4 lens is set to 5m, the depth of field at f/4 is from approximately 4 m to 8m. If you then stop down to f/11 with the same distance, the depth of field is from 3m to around 20m.

Cross-sectional view of a mechanical component showing layered structure (no text or symbols visible)

Lens hoods

The individual Leica M lenses are supplied with various functionally designed lens hoods. On several lenses, they are built in, and have a telescopic design. Lens hoods should always be used because they provide the lens with effective protection against stray light and irradiation and also against rain and fingerprints.

Use of older Leica M lenses

All Leica M lenses can be used. However, the following are not compatible with the exposure metering function:

Hologon 15mm f/8,

Super-Angulon-M 21mm f/4

Super-Angulon-M 21mm f/3.4

Elmarit-M 28mm f/2.8 with serial nos. below 2314921.

When changing lenses, the following must be set to infinity:

Summicron 50mm f/2 with close-up attachment

Black-and-white photo of a person holding a vintage camera (no visible text or symbols)

Holding the camera correctly

For sharp, blur-free pictures, the camera should be held as steadily and comfortably as possible. To ensure suitable secure "three point support" for the LEICA MP, hold the camera with the right hand, with the index finger on the shutter release button and the thumb behind the quick wind lever lifted into its ready position. The left-hand either supports the lens from below, ready for fast focusing adjustments, or is around the whole camera.

Holding the camera against the forehead and cheek provides additional support. For portrait format pictures, turn the LEICA MP to the left. The hands remain in the same position as for

Black-and-white photo of a person taking a selfie with a camera (no visible text or symbols)

pictures in landscape format.

However, you can also turn it to the right. In this case, it may be advantageous to release the shutter with the thumb.

Note:

As a practical accessory, we recommend the Handgrip M, which holds the camera extremely steadily and keeps your hands free when carrying the LEICA MP (Order no. 14 405).

Bright-line view- and rangefinder

The LEICA MP's bright-line view- and rangefinder is not only a very high-quality, large, brilliant and bright viewfinder, it is also a highly accurate rangefinder coupled to the lens.

The size of the bright-lines corresponds to an image size of 23 x 35mm (slide format) at the shortest setting distance for each focal length. At longer distances, the camera records more of the subject than can be seen within the bright-line frames.

The bright-line frames are linked to the distance setting in such a way that parallax – the misalignment between the lens and the viewfinder axes – is automatically compensated and the image within the bright-line frames and the picture are identical over the entire distance setting range from 0.7m to 8.

Three LEICA MP modes are available, with different versions of this viewfinder. They differ exclusively in their magnification:

If lenses with the focal lengths 28 (Elmarit from serial number 2411001), 35, 50, 75, 90 or 135mm are used with the LEICA MP with 0.72 x viewfinder magnification, the associated bright-line frame automatically adjusts itself in the combinations 28+90mm, 35+135mm, 50+75mm.

On the LEICA MP model with the stronger 0.85x viewfinder magnification, five frames are activated for the focal lengths starting at 35mm (90mm, 35+135mm, 50+75mm).

On the LEICA MP 0.58, five frames are activated for the focal lengths up to 90mm (28+90mm, 35mm, 50+75mm).

In the middle of the viewfinder image is the rectangular distance metering image, which is brighter than the surrounding image field. All lenses with focal lengths from 21 to 135mm connect with the range finder when used on the LEICA MP.

If the exposure meter is turned on, the exposure meter LEDs or the battery warning LED display also appear at the lower edge of the viewfinder image.

For more details about setting the distance and the exposure, refer to the relevant sections on pages 80 and 82.

Note:

On the LEICA MP 0.85, the central area of the lower 50mm bright-line frame is hidden by the display.

Bright-line frame 35 mm Bright-line frame 135 mm Metering field for focusing LED for battery warning LEDs for shutter / aperture balance

Image frame selector

The image frame selector (20) expands the possibilities of the LEICA MP viewfinder. This built in universal viewfinder allows you to activate bright-line frames at any time, which do not belong to the lens currently being used. You can then see immediately if, for image composition reasons, it would be better to photograph the relevant subject using a different focal length.

If the lever is pushed outwards, i.e. away from the lens, the image frames for the focal lengths 35 and 135mm appear (not the image frame for 135mm focal length on the LEICA MP 0.58). If the lever is moved to its vertical central position, the image frames for the focal lengths 50 and 75mm appear.

If the lever is pushed inwards, i.e. towards the lens, the image frames for the focal lengths 28 and 90mm appear on the LEICA MP with 0.72x viewfinder magnification, and only the bright-line frames for 90mm focal length on the model with 0.85x viewfinder magnification.

35 mm + 135 mm*

*not in Leica MP 0.58

Black-and-white beach scene with palm trees, a sailboat, and a geometric overlay (no text or symbols)

50 mm + 75 mm

Black-and-white beach scene with palm trees, a small boat docked, and a pink geometric overlay (no text or symbols)

28 mm* + 90 mm

Close-up of a vintage camera with visible lens and adjustment knobs (no text or symbols)

Close-up of a vintage camera lens and aperture with a small inset image showing a lens (no visible text or symbols)

*not in Leica MP 0.85

Distance metering

Due to its large effective metering basis, the rangefinder on the three LEICA MP models is very precise. The benefits of this are particularly noticeable when using wide-angle lenses with their relative deep depth of field. The higher magnification in the case of the 0.85 viewfinder has the effect of providing an even large metering basis, further increasing the accuracy:

	Mechanical metering x basis magnification (Distance between optical axes of viewfinder and the rangefinder viewing windows)	Viewfinder = Effective basis
Leica MP with = approx.0.72x viewfinder 69.25 mm x 0.72 49.9 mm
Leica MP with = approx.0.85x viewfinder 69.25 mm x 0.85 58.9 mm
Leica MP with = approx.0.58x viewfinder 69.25 mm x 0.58 40.2 mm

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 (14) closed, only the activated bright-line frame 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 metering 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 the subject detail.

Split image method

When taking photographs of architecture, for example, aim the range finder metering field at the 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 the subject detail. In practice, there is often no clear distinction between the two methods. The two criteria can be used to great effect in combination.

Simple line drawing of a human eye with eyelashes and concentric ovals, set against a pink background (no text or symbols)

Simple line drawing of an eye with eyebrow and pupil, set against a pink background (no text or symbols)

Double image = out of focus Coincident image = in focus

Abstract geometric composition with pink and white rectangles and a black vertical line (no text or symbols)

Abstract geometric composition with a black vertical line dividing two white squares on a pink background (no text or symbols)

Interrupted line = out of focus Continuous line = in focus

Close-up of a black and silver camera body with a circular aperture and adjustment knobs (no text or symbols visible)

Exposure metering

On the LEICA MP, exposure metering for the available ambient light is done selectively through the lens with the working aperture. The light reflected by a bright metering spot is captured by a photodiode (arrow) and measured. This silicon photo diode with a convex lens in front of it is positioned on the left above the shutter. The metering spot (12mm diameter, corresponding to approx. 13% of negative format) is situated in the center of the first shutter curtain. The uneven coverage of the white paint is not the result of faults in production. Rather, it is due to the fact that it is not possible to apply a sealed, thick coat of paint to the flexible rubber blanket of the shutter without impairing the shutter function. The uneven structure of the metering spot in no way impairs the exposure result. The appropriate shutter speed/aperture combinations for correct exposure are determined using a light balance consisting of three red LEDs (▶ ● ◀) in the viewfinder display. When the setting is correct, only the central circular LED lights up.

Turning on the exposure meter

The exposure meter is turned on by lightly pressing the shutter release button (7) to the pressure point, provided that the camera is turned on, i.e. the shutter speed setting dial (10) is at a position other than B/OFF, and the shutter is fully cocked. If the exposure meter is ready to use, one of the two triangular LEDs lights up and stays lit, in some cases along with the central circular LED. If the shutter release button is let go, without releasing the shutter, the exposure meter remains turned on for around 14s more, and the LED(s) remain lit for the same time.

After releasing the shutter and shutter movement, the exposure meter is turned off and the LED(s) in the viewfinder go out.

The exposure meter is also turned off if the shutter is not cocked and/or the shutter speed setting dial is set to B/OFF (i.e. the camera is turned off).

Notes:

If the shutter is not cocked or the displays go out, the camera is in "standby" mode.

With very little ambient light, i.e. at the limits of the exposure meter's range, it can take around 0.2s for the LEDs to light up.

If you are below the exposure meter's metering range at very low light densities, the left-hand triangular LED flashes as a warning.

Setting the exposure / an appropriate shutter speed/aperture combination

If the exposure is to be set in accordance with the data from the exposure meter, the shutter must be fully cocked and the shutter speed setting dial (10) must be set to one of the engraved shutter speeds.

Then:

1. Turn on the exposure meter by lightly pressing the shutter release (7, to pressure point).
2. Turn the shutter speed setting dial and/or the aperture setting dial on the lens (18) until only the circular LED is lit.

As well as the direction of rotation of the aperture setting ring necessary for correct exposure, the three LEDs in the light balance also indicate underexposure, overexposure and correct exposure in the following way:

▶ Underexposure of at least one f-stop; rotation of aperture ring to the right and/or the shutter speed dial to the left is necessary

Underexposure of 12 f-stop; rotation of aperture ring to the right or the shutter speed dial to the left is necessary

• Correct exposure
  Overexposure of 1/2 f-stop; rotation of aperture ring to the left or the shutter speed dial to the right is necessary
  Overexposure of at least one f-stop; rotation of aperture ring to the left and/or the shutter speed dial to the right is necessary

The B setting / Turning off the exposure meter

With the B/OFF setting on the shutter speed setting dial, exposures of any duration are possible. The shutter remains open for as long as the shutter release button is held down.

The exposure meter is turned off. If the camera is not used or is stored in a bag for a long time, it should always be turned off by turning the shutter speed setting dial to the B/OFF position. This prevents any power consumption, including the low consumption that continues to occur in standby mode after the exposure meter is turned off automatically and the display is extinguished.

Exposure meter metering range

At room temperature, normal humidity and aperture 1.0, the metering range stretches from 0.03 to 125000cd/m ^2 . At ISO 100/21°, this corresponds to EV-2 to 20 or f/1.0 and 4s to f/32 and 1/1000s (see also diagram on page 87).

Working below the metering range

If you are below the exposure meter's metering range at very low light densities, the left-hand triangular LED flashes as a warning.

As the exposure is metered with the working aperture, this situation can come about by stopping down the lens.

Even if you are below the metering range, the exposure meter remains on for around 14s after you let go the shutter release button. If the lighting conditions improve in this time (e.g. through a change in the subject detail or opening of the aperture), the LED display changes from flashing into being continuously lit, indicating that the meter is ready.

Metering diagram (Diagram see p. 87)

Information on the metering range of the exposure meter can be found on the right-hand side of the diagram, while information on the working range of the slotted shutter and the lenses are on the left. Between them, the exposure values (EV) can be read off.

The metering range of the exposure meter is given on the right of the diagram in cd/m ^2 (candela per square meter). Above this, the film speed settings (SV = Speed Value) are given in ISO values. To the left of the diagram, you can see the shutter speed details in seconds (TV = Time Value). The working range of the LEICA MP's focal plane shutter is represented by a shaded area in the adjacent column. In the B/OFF setting, the range is open at the top. The aperture values (AV) can be read off in the bottom left. Example A highlights the relationships between the film speed, light intensity (brightness), shutter speed and aperture.

From the film speed (ISO 100/21°), you can first of all follow the vertical line to its intersection with the horizontal line for the given light intensity. In this example, this is 4000 cd/m², which corresponds to the brightness in bright sunshine. The line then runs diagonally as far as the vertical line for the set aperture (11) and from there horizontally to the left until it reaches the necessary shutter speed (1/250s). The exposure value (EV15) can also be read off in the diagonal course of the line.

Example B shows that in candlelight and with a film speed of ISO 400/27° (1cd/m ^2 ) it is necessary to use aperture 1.4 and a shutter speed of 1/15s. The aperture 11 on the lens, for example, cannot be used as the associated shutter speed of 4s is not available on the shutter speed setting dial.

Because only 1s can be set as the highest shutter speed using the dial, direct metering is no longer possible. Conversion or reading the correct shutter speed from this diagram is therefore essential.

Metering field orientation in the viewfinder (Diagram see pp. 88-89)

The diameter of the circular metering field is 12mm. This corresponds to 12 of the format height and 13 of the format width. However, in the viewfinder image the metering field size changes slightly in relation to the valid framing, which depends on the focal length used and the set distance.

This also applies to lenses with a viewfinder attachment, e.g. the LEICA ELMARIT-M 135mm f/2.8.

Metering diagram

LEICA MP
Viewfinder magnification 0.58 x

Simple geometric diagram with a central square and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

LEICA MP
Viewfinder magnification 0.58 x

Simple geometric diagram with a central circle and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

24 mm 21 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central circle and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

Simple geometric diagram with concentric rectangles and a central black square (no text or symbols)

90 mm28 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central circle and two horizontal lines, no text or symbols present.

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and two horizontal lines, no text or symbols present.

135 mm3 5 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines inside a rectangle (no text or symbols)

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and surrounding dashed lines, no text or symbols present.

75 mm50 mm

LEICA MP
Viewfinder magnification 0.72 x

Simple geometric diagram with a central square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present.

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present.

28 mm

Simple geometric diagram with concentric circles and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

35 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines, no text or symbols present.

50 mm

LEICA MP
Viewfinder magnification 0.72 x

Simple geometric diagram with concentric circles and horizontal lines, no text or symbols present

24 mm 24 mm21 mm

LEICA MP
Viewfinder magnification 0.85 x

Simple circular diagram with a central black square and horizontal lines, labeled '21 mm' at bottom left (no text or symbols within the diagram itself)

LEICA MP
Viewfinder magnification 0.85 x

Simple diagram with a central black square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present.

90 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and two vertical lines, no text or symbols present.

28 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and three horizontal lines, no text or symbols present.

90 mm

Simple geometric diagram with nested rectangles and a central black square (no text or symbols)

135 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and gray circle, enclosed by two horizontal lines (no text or symbols)

35 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and surrounding lines, no text or symbols present.

135 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines, no text or symbols present.

75 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines, no text or symbols present.

50 mm

Simple geometric diagram with a central black square and dashed lines, no text or symbols present.

75 mm

General notes on exposure metering

Most subjects normally have even distribution of dark and light subject details. This kind of normal subjects reflect 18% of the incident light, corresponding to a grey scale value to which all exposure meters are calibrated.

If the subject actually reflects more light, e.g. a snowy winter landscape, a bright sandy beach, white house walls or a white wedding dress, a shutter speed and aperture setting in accordance with the exposure meter display would result in underexposure.

By contrast, subjects with predominantly dark details, e.g. a black steam engine, dark grey slate roofs or a dark blue captain's uniform, reflect less light and a shutter speed and aperture setting in accordance with the exposure meter display would result in overexposure.

In this kind of cases, the exposure meter value has to be corrected, if you are aiming for optimum exposure results. This is not the case if you use selective metering and take the measurement from part of the subject with a good distribution of light and dark details.

For example, in a wedding photo you can take the measurement from the bride's face and not the white wedding dress. For landscape photographs using a wide angle lens, the camera can be tilted until the LEICA MP's selective metering field does not record the bright sections of the sky.

If there is no suitable section of the subject to measure in this way, it is necessary to use a compensation factor, i.e. the shutter speed is extended by 2 to 4 times or the aperture is opened by 1 to 2 stops.

For sunlit snowy ground, for example, the compensation factor is 4, i.e. instead of the metered shutter speed of 1/1000s at f/8, the exposure uses either 1/250s at f/8 or 1/1000s at f/4. For less bright subjects, e.g. a bright beach, an compensation factor of 1.5 is sufficient. The reverse procedure is used for dark subjects.

Black-and-white photo of the Great Pyre and Giza pyramids in a desert landscape, with no visible text or symbols.

With great contrasts between light and dark sections, the exposure range of film is no longer sufficient to register all the subject's differences in brightness in both the "light" and the "shadows". The decision is left to the photographer as to which sections he wants to emphasise. For example, a person can then appear as a dark silhouette (underexposed) in front of a correctly exposed landscape or correctly exposed in front of a "bleached" background (overexposed).

Black-and-white museum exhibit featuring a sculpted figure in traditional attire, displayed on stands with no visible text or symbols.

Taking a measurement for "light" and "shadows" and using a compromise exposure calculated from the two normally leads to unsatisfactory results, because some differences are lost in both the light and the dark sections.

Deliberately low or deliberately generous exposures often increase the character of a picture and can therefore be effectively used as a composition tool.

12 a 12 b 22 USICA CAMERA MADE IN GERMANY

Flash mode

The LEICA MP does not have its own flash metering and control function. As a result, flash exposures must either be controlled by the flash unit itself (computer control) or by using guide number calculations – the aperture must be reset for each picture according to the distance between the subject and the camera.

The fastest possible shutter speed for pictures using electronic flash units, the synchronisation time of 1/50s, is indicated by 12 on the shutter speed dial (7). For special effects, all slower shutter speeds including the B/OFF setting can also be used.

Warning:

Mechanically controlled firing of flash units connected via the accessory shoe (12a) or the contact socket (22) may also be triggered when pressing the shutter release even if the shutter is not cocked.

Black and white photo of a Liuka 1900 camera with lens and external frame (no visible text or symbols)

Compatible flash units

With its compact dimensions and design geared towards this camera, the LEICA SF20 is particularly well suited. Thanks to its computer-controlled automatic flash exposure, it is very easy to operate and furthermore offers a range of interesting additional functions.

However, all other standard flash units with standard flash connectors (central connectors) and additional flash units with standard flash

feet can also be used with the LEICA MP and fired via the central contact (X contact, 12b). We recommend the use of modern thyristor-controlled electronic flash units.

Attaching and connecting the flash unit

The LEICA MP offers a choice of two flash connections:

• A flash (hot) shoe with central (firing) contact (12a/b) for all flash units with standard flash foot. When attaching a flash unit to the LEICA MP's flash shoe, you should ensure that the foot of the flash unit is fully inserted and – if present – prevented from accidentally falling out using the tightening nut. This is important because changes in position in the flash shoe can break the required contact, which means that the attached flash unit would not be fired.
• On the rear of the camera, directly below the flash shoe, is a contact socket (=X contact, 22) for cord connections.

The two connections can be used simultaneously to fire multiple flash units.

Notes:

Before attaching the flash, the camera and the flash unit must be turned off.

For more information about use of the flash and the various modes offered by the flash units, please refer to the relevant instructions.

System accessories for the LEICA MP Interchangable lenses

The Leica M system is ideal for fast and candid photography. The range of lenses incorporates focal lengths from 21 to 135mm and speeds up to 1:1.

Filters

In black and white photography, filters are used for controlled rendition of tonal values, e.g. to achieve a rendition of the grey scale values for the different colors that correspond to the natural feeling, or to improve the rendition of the sky or clouds. In color photography, filters can be used to adapt color rendition as required or to the spectral sensitivity of the film used.

A range of different filters, equipped with standard filter thread sizes, are available for the current LEICA M lenses, including a circular polarizing filter.

When the exposure is metered through the lens, the reduction in the quantity of light through the filter is automatically taken into account. However, different films have a different sensitivities in the individual areas of the spectrum. Therefore, more dense or extreme filters may cause deviations from the metered exposure. For example, orange filters normally require a compensation of one stop, red filters around 2 stops on average. It is not possible to provide a generally applicable value, as black and white films have very different sensitivities to red.

Close-up of a vintage camera lens assembly with metallic frame (no visible text or symbols)

Lens Carrier M

A practical little accessory, which allows you to keep a second lens at hand, held securely under the camera, with quick and easy access at any time. The second lens can act as a comfortable handle. The Lens Carier M lens is attached to the camera's tripod thread (Order no. 14404).

Viewfinder for 21/24/28mm Lenses

The LEICA viewfinder for 21/24/28mm lenses makes it possible to set the framing of the three wide angle focal lengths for which the camera viewfinder does not, or does not always, provide bright-line frames (28 mm available on LEICA M4P, M6, M6TTL 0.58/0.72, M7 0.58/0.72 and MP 0.58/0.72). The three settings can be

Close-up of a vintage camera with lens and screen (no visible text or symbols)

conveniently selected using a knurled dial that can be felt and heard clicking into place.

The optical performance matches the high level of the LEICA MP viewfinder, is also suitable for those wearing eyeglasses and offers extremely high magnification, giving excellent detail visibility. If the viewfinder is used without eyeglasses, the eyesight correction lenses for the Leica M camera can be screwed on to compensate for eye defects. The eyepiece is rubber coated to protect eyeglasses.

The viewfinder's robust aluminium housing is available in black or silver to match the designs of the camera body (Order nos. 12 013 /12 014).

Close-up of a metallic camera module with control knobs and a dial (no visible text or symbols)

Viewfinder Magnifier M 1.25x

The LEICA Viewfinder Magnifier M 1.25x significantly simplifies picture composition when using focal lengths above 50mm. It can be used on all Leica M models and magnifies the central area of the viewfinder image by a quarter. A 0.58x viewfinder becomes a 0.72x viewfinder, a 0.72x viewfinder becomes a 0.9x viewfinder and a 0.85x viewfinder becomes a 1.06x viewfinder, which actually means a slight magnification compared to viewing with the naked eye.

The latter combination therefore allows the subject to be viewed comfortably with both eyes. Particularly with the 75 to 135mm telephoto lenses in the Leica M system, the visibly larger viewfinder image makes subject details clearly easier to recognise in the respective image

frame. At the same time, the 25 % magnification of the effective metering basis results in a corresponding increase in the setting accuracy. A security chain with snap fasteners prevents loss and can be used to hang the viewfinder on the carrying strap's fastening ring.

The viewfinder magnifier is supplied in a leather case. A loop on the case allows the viewfinder magnifier to be stored on the camera's carrying strap, where it is protected and ready for use (Order no. 12004).

Correction lenses

For optimum adaptation of the eye to the camera's viewfinder, correction lenses with the following positive or negative dioptre values are available (spherical): 0,5/1/1,5/2/3.

Black and silver vintage camera with lens and external frame (no visible text or symbols)

LEICA MOTOR M

The LEICA MOTOR M can be attached to the LEICA MP for automatic shutter cocking and film advancing for single or series exposures of either 1.5 or 3 images per second. It is attached to the bottom of the camera housing instead of the bottom cover.

The Motor M is suitable for all shutter speeds, i.e. from 1s to 1/1000s including B. When the Motor M is turned off or its batteries are flat, the film can be advanced and the shutter cocked manually. Remote release is possible using the cable release connection (Order no. 14408).

Vintage camera with black and silver body, lens visible (no text or symbols)

LEICAVIT M

The LEICAVIT M is a smooth running and low-noise manual quick-wind device for advancing the film and cocking the shutter, and is attached to the bottom of the camera in the place of the bottom cover. Without having to take the camera away from your eye, you can advance the film by moving a swing-out winding lever to the left; partial steps are also possible. The shutter is released using the camera's shutter release button. The camera's quick wind lever can also be used.

The LEICAVIT M is available in either silver chromium plated or black lacquered versions to match the different camera designs (Order nos. 14008/14009).

Close-up of a metallic mechanical component with a knob and scale markings (no readable text or symbols)

Detachable rewind crank

This easy to attach clip-on crank can be left attached if preferred. It makes rewinding the film significantly easier and faster.

The crank is available in either silver chromium plated or black lacquered versions to match the different camera designs (Order nos. 14437/14 438).

Black and white photo of a vintage-style camera with lens and frame (no visible text or symbols)

Handgrip M

The Handgrip M allows all Leica M cameras (except the M5) to be held securely and comfortably. It is attached to the camera's tripod thread (Order no. 14405).

Two black athletic bags with straps, one larger and one smaller, shown against a white background (no text or symbols visible)

Cases

For the LEICA MP with a lens of between 21 and 50mm focal length (except M 50mm f/1), a leather ever-ready case with unbuttoning front section is available. For more extensive camera configurations, the classic combination case for a camera and up to three lenses or the classic universal case for a camera and up to five lenses are also available (see Leica system manual).

Maintenance tips for your Leica camera and lenses

If your Leica is to be stored for a long period of time, please remove the batteries and make sure that the camera is stored in a dry, well-ventilated place. Photo cases that have got wet during use should be emptied to prevent damage to your equipment caused by moisture and any leather-tanning residue released. To prevent fungal growth during use in hot, humid tropical climates, the camera equipment should be exposed to the sun and air as much as possible. Storage in airtight containers or cases is only recommended if a desiccant, such as silica gel, is also used. As any dirt may also be a breeding ground for micro-organisms, the equipment should be carefully kept clean.

All mechanically operated bearings and sliding surfaces on your Leica are lubricated. Please remember this if you will not be using the camera for a long period of time. To prevent the lubrication points from becoming gummy, the camera should be wound on several times and released with every shutter speed with no film loaded every three months. It is also recommended that you repeatedly move and use all other controls, such as the image field selector. The range and aperture setting rings on the lenses should also be moved from time to time.

A lens works like a magnifying glass if bright sunlight shines on the front of the camera. The camera should therefore never be set aside without protection against strong sunlight. Using the lens cover and keeping the camera in the shade (or directly in the case) help to prevent damage to the interior of the camera.

To remove stains and fingerprints, the camera and lens should be wiped with a clean lint-free cloth. Tougher dirt in hard to reach corners of the camera body can be removed with a small brush. Do not use liquid cleaning agents to clean the housing. Dust and lint inside the camera (e.g. on the mirror or the film guides) are best removed carefully with a soft hair brush that has been repeatedly degreased in ether and then dried. Be careful not to damage the shutter curtain with the shaft of the brush.

Normally, a soft hair brush is sufficient to remove dust from the outer lens elements. However, in case of more stubborn dirt, they can be carefully cleaned with a very clean, soft cloth that is completely free of foreign matter, using circular motions from the inside to the outside. We recommend micro-fiber cloths (available from photographic and optical specialists) that are stored in a protective container and can be washed at temperatures of up to 40^ C (without fabric softener, never iron!). Cloths for cleaning glasses, which are impregnated with chemicals, should not be used as they can damage the lens glass.

For optimum front lens protection in unfavourable photographic conditions (e.g. sand, salt water spray), use transparent UVa filters. However, you should bear in mind that, like all filters, they can cause unwanted reflections in certain backlight situations and with high contrasts. The generally recommended lens hood also protects the lens from unintentional fingerprints and the rain.

Note the serial number of your LEICA MP6 and lenses, as these are extremely important in case of loss.

Index Page

Academy, Leica 106

Accessories....94

- Cases....99

- Correction lenses....97

- Interchangeable lenses 94

- Filters....94

- Handgrip M 99

- LEICAVIT M 98

- Motor M 97

- Rewind crank 98

- Viewfinder for 21/24/28mm lenses....95

- Viewfinder Magnifier M 1.25x....96

Batteries....61

- Automatic battery check....62

- Compatible batteries....61

- Inserting and changing the batteries......61

- Tips for use of the battery....63

Bright-line / View- and rangefinder......76

Carrying strap 60

Depth of field scale 73

Distance setting....80

- Depth of field 73

- Metering field....80/88-89

- Setting ring 72

- Split image method....80

- Superimposed image method ....80

Exposure / Exposure meter....82

- B setting....84

- General notes on exposure metering .....90

- Metering field size in the viewfinder ....86/88-89

- Metering range....84

- Metering diagram 85/87

- Working below the metering range .....84

- Setting the exposure / -an appropriate shutter speed/aperture combination....83

- Turning off the exposure meter....84

- Turning on the exposure meter 82

Film....66

- Loading 67

- Rewinding and removing 68

Film speed 69

- Setting 69

- Setting range ....70

Filters....94

Flash mode 92

- Synchronisation ....92

Holding the camera correctly....75

Info service, Leica 107

Image field selector....78

Internet / Leica homepage .....107

Shutter release, see Shutter and

Technical Data 64/104

Lens hoods....74

Lenses, Leica M ....71

- Attaching and removing....70/71

- Structure....71-73

- Use of older lenses....74

Maintenance tips for camera and lenses .....100

Quick wind lever 65

Repairs / Leica Customer Service ......107

Shutter, see Shutter release and

Technical Data 64/104

Shutter speed setting dial....64

Speed/aperture combination, see Exposure setting and Metering diagram .....73/85/87

Technical data....104

Viewfinder 76

- Attachable viewfinder ....95

- Bright-line frames....76

- Displays....59/83

Technical data

Camera type Compact 35mm range- and viewfinder system camera with mechanically controlled shutter.

Lens connection Leica M bayonet.

Lens system Leica M lenses from 21-135mm

Exposure metering Exposure metering through the lens (TTL), selectively with working aperture.

Metering principle The light reflected by a metering spot in the center of the 1^st shutter curtain is metered. The metering spot has a diameter of 12 mm and therefore corresponds to approx. 13% of the full negative format or around 12 of the short side of the corresponding frame in the viewfinder.

Metering range (at ISO 100/21°) From 0.03 cd/m² to 125000 cd/m² at room temperature, normal humidity and aperture 1.0. At ISO 100/21° this corresponds to EV-2 to 20 or f/1 and 4s (B-setting) to f/32 and 1/1000 s. Flashing of the left triangular LED in the viewfinder indicates values below the metering range.

Metering cell for available light (continuous light measurements) Silicon photo diode with convex lens to the top left behind the camera bayonet.

Film speed range Manual setting from ISO 6/9° to ISO 6400/39°.

Exposure mode Manual shutter speed and aperture setting, adjustment via LED light balance.

Flash exposure control

Flash unit connection Via accessory shoe with central contact and/or standard flash connection socket.

Synchronisation On the 1 ^st shutter curtain.

Flash synchronising speed =1/50s ; slower shutter speeds possible.

Flash exposure control Via computer control of flash unit or via guide number calculation and manual setting for the required aperture.

Viewfinder

Viewfinder principle Large, light bright-line range- and viewfinder with automatic parallax compensation.

Eyepiece Adjusted to -0.5 dpt.. Corrective lenses from -3 to +3 dpt. available.

Image field limitation By projection of pairs of bright-line frames: For 28 and 90mm (90mm only on LEICA MP 0.85) or for 35 and 135mm (35mm only on LEICA MP 0.58), or for 50 and 75mm. Automatic projection when lens is attached. The desired frame can be projected using the frame selector.

Parallax compensation The horizontal and vertical difference between the viewfinder and the lens is automatically compensated according to the relevant distance setting, i.e. the bright-line frame automatically aligns with the subject detail recorded by the lens.

Matching of viewfinder and film image The size of the bright-line frame corresponds to an image size of 23 x 35mm at the shortest setting distance for each focal length. With the infinity setting, depending on the focal length, approx. 9% (28mm) to 23% (135mm) more of the image is recorded than the corresponding bright-line frame shows.

Magnification (for all lenses)

LEICA MP 0.58: 0.58x, LEICA MP 0.72: 0.72x, LEICA MP 0.85: 0.85x.

Wide-basis range finder Split or superimposed image range-finder shown as a bright field in the center of the viewfinder image.

Effective basis width LEICA MP 0.58: 40.2mm (mechanical basis width 69.25mm x viewfinder magnification 0.58 x), LEICA MP 0.72: 49.9mm (mechanical basis width 69.25mm x viewfinder magnification 0.72x), LEICA MP 0.85: 58.9mm (mechanical basis width 69.25mm x viewfinder magnification 0.85x).

Displays

Viewfinder (lower edge) LED symbol for battery warning. LED light balance with two triangular and one central circular LED for exposure adjustment. Triangular LEDs indicate the required direction of the aperture ring for the adjustment.

Top panel Frame counter

Rear panel Setting dial for manual film speed setting.

Shutter and release

Shutter Rubberised cloth, focal plane shutter with horizontal movement; extremely low-noise; mechanically controlled.

Shutter speeds From 1s to 1/1000s in whole steps, B for long exposures of any duration, 12(1/50s) for flash synchronisation.

Shutter release Two-stage: Power up (activation of exposure meter) - Release Integrated standard cable release thread.

Film winding

Loading Manual film loading after opening the bottom cover and the rear panel.

Winding forwards Manually with quick wind lever or LEICAVIT M, motorised using MOTOR-M, LEICA WINDER-M, LEICA WINDER M4-P, or LEICA WINDER M4-2 (from serial no. 10350).

Rewind Manually with pull-out rewind button, after moving the R lever on the front of the camera. Detachable rewind crank available as an accessory.

Frame counter On top of camera. Automatic reset after removal of bottom cover.

Camera housing

Material Enclosed all-metal housing with opening rear panel. Top panel and bottom cover brass, black lacquered or silver chromium plated.

Image field selector Allows the bright-line frame pairs to be manually projected at any time (e.g. to compare framing).

Tripod thread A 1/4(1/4") DIN in bottom cover.

Rear panel / equipment Setting dial for film speed selection.

Operating voltage 3 Volts

Power supply 2 silver oxide button cells, type "PX 76/SR 44" or 1 lithium cell, type "DL 1/3 N". Battery status check by illumination of battery warning display along with light balance LEDs (1 ^st stage), extinguishing of light balance LEDs (2 ^nd stage) or extinguishing of all LEDs.

Dimensions (length x depth x height)

138 mm x 38mm x 77mm

Weight 585g (without batt.)

Other Leica products

Projectors

A wide range of projectors is available to suit all preferences and applications. The professional Pradovit RT models for round magazines and the PRADOVIT P600, P300 and P150 offer optimum operating convenience and versatile expansion options.

The most important common feature of all Leica projectors, particularly the Leica projection lenses, is perfect optical performance, which transfers everything you have recorded with your Leica M lenses onto the screen.

Binoculars and spotting scopes

The particular plus point with the Duovid and Trinovid telescopes, Rangemaster and Pinmaster laser range finders and Televid spotting scopes is their outstanding optics. They are produced from the same high-quality types of glass as the world-famous Leica lenses. The excellent optical performance, the high resolution capabilities and the convincing brilliance provide a vivid image even in conditions of poor contrast.

Leica Academy

We not only manufacture high-performance products for everything from observation to reproduction, we also offer a special service in the form of the Leica Academy, which for many years has been providing practical seminars and training courses, where expertise from the world of photography, projection and magnification has been taught to both beginners and advanced photographic enthusiasts.

The content of the courses, which are run by our experienced team of expert instructors in our modern training facilities at the Solms plant and the nearby "Gut Altenberg", ranges from general photography to areas of special interest, and provide a wealth of practical suggestions, information and advice.

More details, along with the current program of seminars, are available from:

Leica Camera AG

Leica Akademie

Oskar-Barnack Str. 11

D-35606 Solms

Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

e-mail: [e-mail]

Leica on the Internet

Current information about products, news, events and the Leica company is available on our homepage on the Internet at:

http://www.leica-camera.com

Leica info service

The Leica information service can provide you with answers to technical questions regarding the complete Leica range either by telephone, or in writing, by fax or e-mail.

Leica Camera AG

Informations Service

Postfach 1180

D35599 Solms

Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

e-mail: [e-mail]

Leica Customer Service

For maintenance of your Leica equipment, or in case of damage, Leica AG's Customer Service center, or the repair service of the Leica national offices, is available to assist you (see your guarantee card for address list). Please contact your nearest authorised Leica dealer (in Germany: Leica regional office).

Leica Camera AG

Customer Service

Oskar-Barnack Str. 11

D35606 Solms

Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

e-mail: [e-mail]

Trademark of the Leica Camera Group / LEICA MP =® Registered Trademark

Illustrations, descriptions and technical data are not binding.

German/English edition

my point of view

Leica Camera AG / Oskar-Barnack-Straße 11 / D-35606 Solms

www.leica-camera.com / [e-mail]

Telephone [phone] / Fax [phone]