Leica Digilux 3 Instruction Manual

LEICA DIGILUX 3



Before Use

Before Use

Dear Customer,

We would like to take this opportunity to
thank you for purchasing this LEICA
DIGILUX 3. Please read these Operating
Instructions carefully and keep them handy
for future reference.

Information for Your
Safety

WARNING
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD AND ANNOYING
INTERFERENCE, USE ONLY THE
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES
AND DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE THE
COVER (OR BACK); THERE ARE NO
USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.

• Please note that the actual controls and
components, menu items, etc. of your
LEICA DIGILUX 3

may look somewhat
different from those shown in the
illustrations in these Instructions.

• Four Thirds

TM

is a trademark.

• SDHC Logo is a trademark.

• Adobe is a trademark or registered
trademark of Adobe Systems
Incorporated in the United States and/or
other countries.

• Leica is a registered trademark of Leica
Microsystems IR GmbH.

• Elmarit is a registered trademark of Leica
Camera AG.

• Other names, company names, and
product names printed in these
instructions are trademarks or registered
trademarks of the companies concerned.

THE SOCKET OUTLET SHALL BE
INSTALLED NEAR THE EQUIPMENT
AND SHALL BE EASILY ACCESSIBLE.

Carefully observe copyright laws.
Recording of pre-recorded tapes or
discs or other published or broadcast
material for purposes other than your
own private use may infringe copyright
laws. Even for the purpose of private
use, recording of certain material may
be restricted.

RBRC

Li-ion

A lithium ion/polymer battery that is recyclable powers the
product you have purchased. Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for

TM

information on how to recycle this battery.

QuickTime and the QuickTime logo are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., used under license.

2

CAUTION

Danger of explosion if battery is
incorrectly replaced. Replace only with
the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer.
Dispose of used batteries according to
the manufacturer’s instructions.

Before Use

FCC Note: (U.S. only)

This equipment has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more
of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving
antenna.

• Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet
on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced
radio/TV technician for help.

FCC Caution: To assure continued

compliance, follow the
attached installation
instructions and use only
shielded interface cables
with ferrite core when
connecting to computer or

peripheral devices.
Any changes or modifications not
expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void
the user’s authority to operate this
equipment.

Trade Name: LEICA
Model No.: DIGILUX 3
Responsible party / Support Contact:
Leica Camera AG
Oskar-Barnack-Str. 11
D-35606 Solms
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.leica.camera.com
[e-mail]
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference,
and
(2) this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.

This Class B digital apparatus complies
with Canadian ICES-003

LEICA

DIGILUX 3

3

Before Use

-If you see this symbol- w

Information on Disposal for Users of
Waste Electrical & Electronic
Equipment (private households)

This symbol on the
products and/or
accompanying
documents means
that used electrical
and electronic
products should not
be mixed with
general household
waste.
For proper treatment, recovery and
recycling, please take these products to
designated collection points, where they
will be accepted on a free of charge basis.
Alternatively, in some countries you may
be able to return your products to your
local retailer upon the purchase of an
equivalent new product. Disposing of this
product correctly will help to save valuable
resources and prevent any potential
negative effects on human health and the
environment which ould otherwise arise
from inappropriate waste handling. Please
contact your local authority for further
details of your nearest designated
collection point. Penalties may be
applicable for incorrect disposal of this
waste, in accordance with national
legislation.

For business users in the European
Union

If you wish to discard electrical and
electronic equipment, please contact your
dealer or supplier for further information.

Information on Disposal in other
Countries outside the European Union

This symbol is only valid in the European
Union.
If you wish to discard this product, please
contact your local authorities or dealer and
ask for the correct method of disposal.

Care of the camera

•

Do not strongly shake or bump the

The camera may stop operating

camera.

normally, pictures may not be recorded or
the lens may be damaged.

• Sand or dust may cause the camera to
malfunction. Make sure that sand or dust
does not get into the lens or the
terminals when using the camera on a
beach etc.

• Make sure that water does not get into the
camera when using it on a rainy day or on a
beach.

• This unit is not waterproof. If rain water
or other drops of water splash onto the
camera, wipe it with a dry cloth.

•

Do not put your hands inside the mirror.

Do not press, push or use a blower brush to
forcefully blow air on the shutter curtains as
they are very thin. Be careful as they may
get scratched, bent or damaged.

w

About the LCD monitor

• Do not press the LCD monitor with
excessive force as it may cause the
camera to malfunction.

• Condensation may form on the LCD monitor
in places with large temperature differences.
Wipe the condensation with a soft, dry cloth.

• If the camera is cold when you turn it on, the
picture on the LCD monitor will be slightly
darker than usual at first. However, the
picture will return to normal brightness when
the internal temperature of the camera
increases.

Extremely high precision technology is employed
to produce the LCD monitor. However there may
be some dark or bright spots (red, blue or green)
on the screen. This is not a malfunction. The LCD
monitor screen has more than 99.99% effective
pixels with a mere 0.01% of the pixels inactive or
always lit. The spots will not be recorded on
pictures on a card.

4

w About the Lens

• Do not press the lens with excessive
force.

• Do not leave the camera with the lens
facing the sun as it may cause the camera
to malfunction. Also, be careful when you
leave the camera outside or near a
window.

• When there is dirt (water, oil, and
fingerprints, etc.) on the surface of the
lens, the picture may be affected. Lightly
wipe the surface of the lens with a soft,
dry cloth before and after taking pictures.

• Do not place the lens mount facing
downwards. Do not allow the lens mount
contacts  to become dirty.

w About Condensation (When the lens

or the Viewfinder is fogged up)

• Condensation occurs when the ambient
temperature or humidity changes as
follows. Be careful of condensation since it
causes lens stains, fungus and camera
malfunction.
– When the camera is taken from the cold

outdoors to the warm indoors.

– When the camera is taken from outside

to inside an air-conditioned car.

– When cool wind from an air conditioner

etc. blows directly on the camera.

– In humid places.

• To prevent condensation, put the camera
in a plastic bag until the temperature of
the camera is close to the ambient
temperature. If condensation occurs, turn
the camera off and leave it for about
2 hours. The fog will disappear naturally
when the temperature of the camera
becomes close to the ambient
temperature.

Before Use

w When not using the camera for a long

period of time

• Store the battery in a cool and dry place
with a relatively stable temperature.
[Recommended temperature:
15 QC to 25 QC (59 QF to 77 QF),
Recommended humidity:
40% to 60%]

• Always remove the battery and the card
from the camera.

• When the battery is left inserted in the
camera, it will discharge even if the
camera is turned off. If left like this the
battery will discharge excessively and
may become unusable even if charged.

• When storing the battery for a long period
of time, we recommend charging it once a
year. Remove the battery from the camera
and store it again after it has completely
discharged.

• We recommend storing the camera with a
desiccant (silica gel) when you keep it in a
closet or a cabinet.

• If you have not used the camera for a
long period of time, check all the parts
before taking pictures.

5

Before Use

About These
Operating Instructions

w About indications in these operating

instructions

Convenient or helpful information for using
the camera is described.

w About illustrations of the cursor

button

In these operating instructions, operations
using the cursor button are described with
illustrations.
e.g.: When you press the  button

MENU

SET

w About the command dial

In these operating instructions, the
operations on the command dial are
described as illustrated to match the screen
icon.
Rotate the command dial firmly and slowly.

w About illustrations in these operating

instructions

The appearance of the product, the
illustrations and menu screens etc. will
differ slightly from those in actual use.

6

Contents

Before Use

Information for Your Safety....................... 2

About These Operating Instructions .........6

Preparation

Scope of delivery ....................................10

Names of the Components .....................11

Screen Display........................................ 13

About the Lens........................................ 16

Attaching/Detaching the Lens................. 16

Charging the Battery

with the Charger.................................. 18

About the Battery (charging/

number of recordable pictures) ...........19

Inserting/Removing the Battery .............. 20

Using the AC Adaptor ............................. 21

Inserting/Removing the Card

(Optional) ............................................ 21

About the Card........................................ 22

Attaching the Lens Hood ........................23

Attaching the Strap .................................24

Attaching the Eyepiece Cap ...................25

Turning the Camera On .......................... 25

Setting Date/Time (Clock Set) ................26

About the Setup Menu ............................ 27

Basic

Before Taking Pictures With

the Viewfinder ..................................... 31

• Tips for taking good pictures............. 31

• Making the Viewfinder
easier to see (Diopter adjustment) ...31

• Changing the information

display on the LCD monitor .............. 31

Setting the Focus and the

Exposure Automatically
(AF: Auto Focus/

Program AE mode) ............................. 32

• Taking good pictures ........................34

• Continuously focusing on a subject
(AFC) (When taking pictures

with the Viewfinder) .......................... 35

Aperture-priority AE ................................36

Shutter-priority AE ..................................36

Manual Exposure.................................... 38

Compensating the Exposure ..................40

Taking Pictures with Manual Focus ........ 42

Taking Pictures with the Zoom................43

Playing Back Pictures ............................. 44

• Changing the Information
Displayed on the

playback screen................................ 45

Deleting Pictures.....................................45

Using the Playback Zoom....................... 47

Displaying Multiple Screens

(Multi Playback)................................... 48

Displaying Pictures by Recording Date

(Calendar Playback)............................ 49

Advanced

Switching to Live View ............................50

• Tips for taking good pictures

with Live View................................... 51

• Changing the Information

Displayed.......................................... 51

• Recording a picture with the camera
held high above your head

(High angle mode) ............................ 53

• Auto focus when taking

pictures with Live View ..................... 54

• Manual focus when taking

pictures with Live View ..................... 55

Checking the Depth of Field ...................57

Taking Pictures using

the Built-in Flash .................................58

• Adjusting the flash output .................61

• Bounce flash ..................................... 62

Fixing the Focus and the Exposure

(AF/AE Lock)....................................... 63

Taking Pictures using Continuous Mode .... 64

Taking Pictures using Auto Bracket........ 66

Taking Pictures with the Self-timer .........67

7

Adjusting the White Balance................... 68

• [WHITE SET]

Resetting the white balance .............70

• [COLOR TEMPERATURE
SETTING]

Setting the color temperature ........... 70

• [WHITE BALANCE
ADJUSTMENT]
Finely adjusting the

white balance ................................... 70

Setting the ISO Sensitivity ...................... 71

Deciding the Method to

Measure Brightness

(Metering mode).................................. 72

Menu Settings

Setting Frequently Used Functions......... 73

Using the [REC] Mode Menu .................. 75

• [FILM MODE]
Setting the color tone of the

picture to be recorded ...................... 76

• [PICT.SIZE]/[QUALITY]
Setting a picture size and
quality that match your

use of the pictures ............................ 78

• [RAW REC.]
Recording a RAW file

simultaneously.................................. 79

• [ASPECT RATIO]
Setting the aspect ratio of pictures
(When taking pictures

with Live View only).......................... 79

• [EX. OPT. ZOOM]
Enlarging a picture with no
picture quality deterioration
(When taking pictures

with Live View only).......................... 80

• [D.ZOOM]
Further extending the zoom
(When taking pictures

with Live View only)......................... 81

• [SELF-TIMER]

Setting the time for the self-timer ..... 81

• [AF ASSIST LAMP]
Focusing in low light

conditions becomes easier............... 82

• [OIS MODE]

Optical Image Stabilizer ................... 82

• [AUTO BRACKET]
Taking Pictures using

Auto Bracket..................................... 83

• [AF/AE LOCK]
Switching the [AFL/AEL]

button setting.................................... 83

• [BURST RATE]

Setting the frequency ....................... 83

• [FLASH SYNC.]
Setting to the 2nd

Curtain Synchro................................ 83

Using the [CUSTOM] Menu .................... 84

• Saving settings in

[CUST. SET MEM.] ..........................87

Using the [PLAY] mode menu ................88

• [SLIDE SHOW]
Playing back pictures in

order for a fixed duration ..................89

• [FAVORITE]

Setting your favorite pictures............ 90

• [ROTATE DISP.]/[ROTATE]

To display the picture rotated ........... 91

• [DPOF PRINT]
Setting the picture to print

and the number of prints .................. 92

• [PROTECT]
Preventing accidental erasure

of pictures......................................... 94

• [RESIZE]

Making the picture smaller ............... 94

• [TRIMMING]
Enlarging a picture and

trimming it......................................... 95

• [ASPECT CONV.]
Changing the aspect ratio

of a 16:9 picture................................ 96

• [FORMAT]

Initializing the card............................ 97

8

Connecting to other equipment

Connecting to a PC................................. 98

Printing the Pictures.............................. 100

Playing Back Pictures

on a TV Screen .................................104

Others

Using an External Flash........................ 105

Using Filters.......................................... 106

Using the Remote Control Unit .............107

Displaying the Time at the Travel

Destination (World Time) ..................108

• Location candidates for

World Time settings........................ 110

Cautions for Use ................................... 111

Message Display ..................................114

Troubleshooting .................................... 115

Number of recordable pictures .............120

Specifications........................................ 122

Accessories ..........................................125

Index ..................................................... 126

Installing the Software on the CD .........128

Leica Academy .....................................130

Leica on the Internet ............................. 130

Leica Customer Service........................ 131

Leica Information Service .....................131

AC Mains Lead Caution........................ 132

9

Preparation

Preparation

Scope of Delivery

Check that all the accessories are included before using the camera.

1

4

ACA-DC3

424-015.001-000

(TW 423-067.801-089)

7

423-067.801-084

10

423-067.801-081

13

2

5

EU 423-068.801-019
UK -020 / US -021
JP -022 / AUS -023
TW 423-075.801-083

8

423-067.801-017

11

14

3

BP-DC3-E/U/J
18662/-663/-664

6

423-067.801-083

9

12

423-067.801-086

15

10

423-067.801-082

16

423-067.801-088

423-067.801-013

17

423-067.801-093

423-067.801-087

1 Camera Body

(This is referred to as camera body in
these operating instructions.)

2 Interchangeable Lens

LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 14– 50 mm
f/2.8– 3.5 ASPH
(This is referred to as lens in these
operating instructions.)

3 Battery Pack

(This is referred to as battery in these
operating instructions.)

4 Battery Charger/AC Adaptor

(This is referred to as AC adaptor in
these operating instructions.)

5 AC Cable
6 DC Cable
7 Video Cable
8 USB Connection Cable

9 CD-ROM
10 Strap
11 Eyepiece Cap

(This is attached to the strap at the time
of purchase.)

12 Body Cap

(This is attached to the camera body at
the time of purchase.)

13 Lens Hood
14 Lens Cap

(This is attached to the interchangeable
lens at the time of purchase.)

15 Lens Rear Cap

(This is attached to the interchangeable
lens at the time of purchase.)

16 Lens Storage Bag
17 1 GB SD Memory Card

Names of the
Components

w Camera body

3

1

2

1 IR sensor (P69)
2 Lens fitting mark (P16)
3 Flash (P58)
4 AF assist lamp (P82)

Self-timer indicator (P67)
5 Mirror
6 Lens lock pin
7 Lens release button (P17)
8 Lens mount

12

29

28
27
26

25

AFS
AFC

Preparation

4

5

6

7

8

13

AFL
AEL

MF

14

1511109

16

17
18

19

24 2223

21 20

9 Eye cup (P25)

10 Viewfinder eyepiece (P13, 31)
11 [OVF/LCD] button (P50)
12 Flash open button (P58, 62)

11

Preparation

13 Focus mode lever (P32, 35, 42, 54, 55)
14 [AFL/AEL] button (P63)
15 Drive mode lever
16 Camera ON/OFF switch (P25)
17 Command dial (P33, 37, 38, 40, 47 to

49, 56, 58, 61, 68, 71, 73)

18 /// Cursor buttons (P27)
19 [MENU/SET] button (P27)
20 Delete button (P45)
21 Aperture stopping down button (P57)
22 [DISPLAY] button (P31, 45, 51, 53)
23 Playback button (P44, 45, 47 to 49,

104)
24 LCD monitor (P14, 31, 45, 50, 51, 53)
25 Flash output adjustment button (P61)
26 Flash button (P58, 105)
27 [ISO] button (P71)
28 [WB] button (P68)
29 Diopter adjustment dial (P31)

38

O

P

E

E

S

N

O

L

C

38 Tripod thread

• When you use a tripod, make sure it is
stable when the camera is attached to
it.

39 Open/Close lever (P20)
40 Battery door (P20)

41

39
40

30 31

37

35

36

30 Shutter speed dial (P32, 36, 38)
31 Shutter release button (P32)
32 Metering mode lever (P72)
33 [FUNC.1] button (P73)
34 [FUNC.2] button (P40, 73)
35 Drive mode lever

Single (P32):
Continuous (P64):
Auto bracket (P66):

Self-timer (P67):
36 Focus distance reference line (P42)
37 Hot shoe (P105)

12

32
33

41 Strap eyelet (P24)

34

42 Card door (P21)
43 DC cable cover (P21)

V OUT /

46

REMOTE

45

44 [USB] socket (P98, 100)
45 [V OUT/REMOTE] socket (P104, 107)
46 Terminal door

42

43

USB

44

w Lens

LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 14–50 mm
f/2.8–3.5 ASPH

47

48

49

55

51

52

54 53

50

47 Focus distance indicator (P42, 55)
48 Aperture ring (P32, 36, 38)
49 Lens fitting mark (P16)
50 Contact point
51 Aperture ring button (P32, 36, 38)
52 [O.I.S.] switch (P17)
53 Focus ring (P42, 55)
54 Zoom ring (P43, 80, 81)
55 Front lens element surface

w Battery charger/AC adaptor (P18)

56

57
58

59

60

56 Battery holder
57 [POWER] indicator
58 [CHARGE] indicator
59 Power output socket [DC OUT]
60 Power input socket [AC IN]

• Do not use any other AC adaptors
except the supplied one.

Preparation

Screen Display

w Viewfinder Display

1

AEL

AUTO
SLOW

2

12
11

10

9

1 AF frame (P31, 32)
2 AF-LED (P86)
3 AE lock (P63)
4 Exposure compensation value (P40)/

Manual exposure assistance (P39)/

Auto bracket compensation range (P66)
5 Exposure compensation (P40)
6 Auto bracket (P66)
7 Flash setting (P58)
8 Number of recordable pictures

You can display up to 99 pictures only

on the Viewfinder.
9 Card access (P22)

10 Focus (P32)
11 Shutter speed (P32, 37, 38)
12 Aperture value (P32, 36, 38)

AUTO
SLOW

AEL

3

4
5
6

7
8

13

Preparation

P

2000F

2.8

STANDARD

ISO

100

WB

19

NORMAL

CUSTOM

-

1+1+10

-

2

+2

A

AUTO

SINGLE

A

2nd

AUTO

AFL

AEL

-

1+1+10

-

2

+2

P

3BKT 1/3

STD

19

ISO

100

F2.8P

A

2000

1

/

3

-

1+1+10-2

+2

w Information Display on the LCD

Monitor
(When taking pictures with the
Viewfinder)

1

2 3

P

2.8

17

STANDARD

WB

AUTO

16

ISO

100

15
14

13 12 11 910

1 Recording mode (P32, 36, 38)
2 Aperture value (P36, 38)
3 Shutter speed (P36, 38)
4 AF frame setting (P85)
5 Metering mode (P72)
6 Exposure compensation (P40)
7 Flash output adjustment (P61)
8 Custom set (P87)

9 Number of recordable pictures
10 Card access (P22)
11 Quality (P78)
12 Picture size (P78)
13 Battery indication (P19)
14 Flash setting (P58)
15 ISO sensitivity (P71)
16 White balance (P68)
17 Film mode (P76)

18

AUTO

27

SINGLE

2nd

26

25

18 Program shift (P33)
19 AF lock (P63)
20 AE lock (P63)

14

2000

24

45

CUSTOM

NORMAL

19 20

AFL

+2

21 Current date and time

This is displayed for about 5 seconds
when the camera is turned on, after
setting the clock and after switching

from playback mode to recording mode.
22 Manual exposure assistance (P39)
23 Optical image stabilizer (P17, 82)

6

+2

7

8

19

24 Recording a RAW file simultaneously

ON/OFF (P79)
25 Single (P32): SINGLE

Continuous (P64):

Auto bracket (P66):

3BKT 1/3

Self-timer (P67):
26 2nd curtain synchro (P83): 2ND
27 White balance fine adjustment (P70)

w Live View Display on the LCD Monitor

(P50)

34

12 5 6

ISO

STD

13

100

7
8

9, 10

+2

11

19

20

19
18

17

F2.8

16 121415

2000

1 Recording mode (P32, 36, 38)
2 Aperture value (P54)
3 Shutter speed (P54)
4 White balance (P68)

AEL

21
22

5 ISO sensitivity (P71)
6 Flash setting (P58)
7 Flash output adjustment (P61)
8 Card access (P22)

Lights red.

23

9 Recording state

Flashes red.
10 Focus (P54)

Lights green.
11 Manual exposure assistance (P39)
12 Number of recordable pictures
13 Film mode (P76)
14 Optical image stabilizer (P17, 82)
15 Quality (P78)

16 Picture size (P78)

A

2nd

P

AFL
AEL

2X

1

/

3

10:00

DEC

.

1.2006

1

100

_

0001

1/19

ISO

100

F2.8

2000P

A

2nd

17 Battery indication (P19)
18 High angle mode (P53)
19 AF frame (P54)
20 Focus position (P54)

21

22 233324

2nd

AFL

32

AEL

31
30

2X

25

26

28 2729

21 Program shift (P33)
22 Continuous (P64):

Auto bracket (P66):

Self-timer (P67):
23 White balance fine adjustment (P68)
24 2nd curtain synchro (P83): 2ND
25 Histogram (P52)
26 Self-timer (P67)

This is displayed during countdown.
27 Recording a RAW file simultaneously

ON/OFF (P79)
28 Extended optical zoom (P80)
29 Digital zoom (P81)
30 AF frame setting (P85)
31 AE lock (P63)
32 AF lock (P63)
33 Exposure compensation (P40)

Preparation

w Playback Display on the LCD Monitor

16
15

10:00

12

F2.8

2000

DEC

1.2006

3

ISO

100

2nd

4
5

6
7

8

14

1312

1011

1/19

0001

9

10

1 Playback mode (P44)
2 Recording information
3 Favorites (P90)
4 Protected picture (P94)
5 Color space (P86)
6 Cable disconnection warning icon

(P103)
This is displayed when printing using a
printer supporting PictBridge.
(Depending on the printer, the icon may

not be displayed.)
7 Histogram (P52)
8 Picture number/Total pictures
9 Folder/File number (P99)

10 Recording a RAW file simultaneously

ON/OFF (P79)

11 Quality (P78)
12 Picture size (P78)
13 Battery indication (P19)
14 Favorites settings (P90)
15 Number of DPOF prints (P92)
16 Recorded date and time

15

Preparation

1

About the Lens

You can use the supplied lens or a lens that
is compatible with the lens mount standard
for the “Four Thirds System (Four Thirds
Mount)” with the LEICA DIGILUX
If you use a lens other than the supplied
interchangeable lens, some of the functions
described in these instructions may not be
available and/or work differently.
In such cases, please see the respective
lens instructions.

w “Four Thirds Mount”

3.

Attaching/Detaching
the Lens

• Check that the camera is turned off.

• Close the flash.

w Attaching a lens to the camera body

1 Turn the lens rear cap  and the

body cap  in the direction of the
arrow to detach them.

1

This is the lens mount standard for the
“Four Thirds System”.
These are interchangeable lenses newly
developed specifically for the optical design
requirements of digital cameras.

w Using a lens from another

manufacturer

• Some lenses from other manufacturers do
not have an aperture ring. When you use
a lens with no aperture ring, [FUNC.1] is
fixed for aperture.
Refer to P73 for more information about
how to use [FUNC.1].

• Depending on the type of lens, you may
not be able to use some functions.

• The available flash range etc. differs
depending on the aperture value of the
lens you are using.

• Take some test pictures with the lens you
are using.

16

A

A

• Do not touch the mirror inside the
camera. (P11)

B

2 Align the lens fitting marks 

(red marks) on the camera body
and the lens and then rotate the
lens in the direction of the arrow
until it clicks.

C

• Do not press the lens release button
when you attach a lens.

• Do not try to attach the lens when
holding it at an angle to the camera
body as the lens mount may get
scratched.

• Check that the lens is attached
correctly.

3 Detach the lens cap.

w Optical image stabilizer

The supplied lens has an optical image
stabilizer function.
The optical image stabilizer function is set
for activation when the lens is attached to
the camera body.

Set the [O.I.S.] switch to [ON].

Preparation

w Detaching a lens from the camera

body

• Check that the camera is turned off.

1 Attach the lens cap.

2 Set the [O.I.S.] switch to [OFF].

3 Press the lens release button 

while turning the lens as far as
possible in the direction of the
arrow to detach it.

D

• Always attach the body cap to the
camera body so that dirt or dust does
not get inside.

• Attach the lens rear cap so that the lens
contact point does not get scratched.

OFF ON

• You can change the optical image
stabilizer mode to [MODE1] or [MODE2]
using [OIS MODE] in the [REC] mode
menu (P82). It is set to [MODE1] at the
time of purchase.

• We recommend setting the [O.I.S.] switch
to [OFF] when using a tripod. If the [O.I.S.]
switch is set to [OFF], [ ] is displayed
on the LCD monitor.

• Change lenses where there is not a lot of
dirt or dust.

• When you turn the camera off or carry the
camera, attach the lens cap to protect the
front lens element surface.

• Detach the lens cap before taking
pictures.

• Be careful not to lose the lens cap, the
lens rear cap and the body cap.

17

Preparation

Charging the Battery
with the Charger

• The battery is not charged when the
camera is shipped. Charge the battery
before use.

1 Connect the AC cable.

A

• When you connect the AC cable, the

[POWER] indicator  lights red.

• The battery cannot be charged when
the DC cable is connected to the AC
adaptor.

2 Align the battery with the marks

on the AC adaptor and then place
it straight into the AC adaptor.
Check that it is firmly attached.

B

3 Detach the battery after charging

is completed.

B

• Charging is completed when the

[CHARGE] indicator  turns off (after
about 130 minutes).

• After charging is completed, be sure to
disconnect the AC cable from the
electrical outlet.

• The battery becomes warm after using it
and during and after charging. The
camera also becomes warm during use.
This is not a malfunction.

• The battery will be exhausted if left for a
long period of time after being charged.
Recharge the battery when it is
exhausted.

• Use the dedicated AC adaptor and
battery.

• Use the AC adaptor indoors.

• Do not disassemble or modify the AC
adaptor.

• Charging starts when the [CHARGE]

indicator  lights green.

18

About the Battery

(charging/number of recordable
pictures)

w Battery indication

The remaining battery power appears on
the screen.

• The battery indication turns red and blinks.
(The status indicator blinks when the LCD
monitor turns off.) Recharge the battery or
replace it with a fully charged battery.
(This does not appear when using the AC

)

adaptor.

w The battery life
The number of recordable pictures
when using the Viewfinder
(By CIPA standard in program AE mode)

Number of
recordable pictures

Recording conditions by CIPA standard

• Temperature: 23 °C (73.4 °F)/
Humidity: 50% when LCD monitor is on.

• Using the supplied 1 GB SD Memory
Card.

• Using the supplied battery.

• Using the supplied lens.

• Starting recording 30 seconds after the
camera is turned on. (When the optical
image stabilizer function is set to [MODE1])

• Recording once every 30 seconds with
full flash every second recording.

• Turn the camera off every 10 recordings.

• CIPA is an abbreviation of “Camera &
Imaging Products Association”.

The number of recordable pictures
varies depending on the recording
interval time. If the recording interval
time becomes longer, the number of
recordable pictures decreases.
[e.g. When recording once every
2 minutes, the number of recordable
pictures decreases to about 110.]

Approx. 450 pictures
(Approx. 225 min)

Preparation

The number of recordable pictures
when using the LCD monitor (Live View)
(The conditions are the same as the
CIPA standard.)

Number of
recordable pictures

Approx. 300 pictures
(Approx. 150 min)

Playback time

Playback time Approx. 420 min

The number of recordable pictures and the
playback time will vary depending on the
operating conditions of the unit and the
storing conditions of the battery.

w Charging

Charging time Approx. 130 min

• The [CHARGE] indicator lights when
charging starts.

w When the [CHARGE] indicator flashes

• The battery is over discharged
(discharged excessively). In a while, the
[CHARGE] indicator will light up and
normal charging will start.

• When the battery temperature is
excessively high or low, the charging time
will be longer than normal.

• When the operating time of the camera
becomes extremely short even after properly
charging the battery, the life of the battery
may have expired. Buy a new battery.

w Charging conditions

• Charge the battery in a temperature
between 10 QC to 35 QC. (50 QF to 95 QF).
(The battery temperature should also be
the same.)

• The performance of the battery may
temporarily deteriorate and the operating
time may become shorter in low
temperature conditions (e.g. skiing/
snowboarding).

19

Preparation

Inserting/Removing
the Battery

• Check that the camera is turned off.

• Close the flash.

1 Slide the release lever in the

direction of the arrow (OPEN
side) and then open the battery
door.

O

P

E

E

S

N

O

L

C

• Always use genuine Leica
batteries (BP-DC3).

2 Insert:

Insert the charged battery fully
until it clicks.

Remove:
Push the lever  in the direction
of the arrow to remove.

A

• Be careful of the direction indicated by
the mark [ ] on the battery when
inserting the battery.

3  Close the battery door.

 Slide the release lever in the

direction of the arrow (CLOSE
side) and then close it firmly.

1

O

P

E

E

S

N

O

L

C

2

• Remove the battery after use.

• When a fully charged battery has been
inserted for more than 24 hours, the clock
setting is stored (in the camera) for at
least 3 months even if the battery is
removed. (If you insert a battery that is not
sufficiently charged, the length of time that
the clock setting is stored may be shorter.)
The clock setting is canceled after this
length of time. In this case, set the clock
again. (P28)

• Do not remove the card or the battery
while the card is being accessed. The
data may be damaged. (P22)

• Turn the camera off and then remove
the battery after the LCD monitor and
the status indicator (green) turn off. If
you remove the battery while the
camera is on, the settings on the
camera may not be stored properly.

• The supplied battery is designed only
for the camera. Do not use it with any
other equipment.

20

Using the AC Adaptor

You can use the camera without worrying
about battery discharge when it is
connected to a PC or printer if you use the
AC adaptor.

• Check that the camera is turned off.

• Close the flash.

1 Connect the AC cable.

2 Connect the DC cable .

Preparation

• Do not use any other AC adaptors except
the supplied one.

• Do not use any other DC cables except
the supplied one. If you use other DC
cables, it may cause a malfunction.

• The camera becomes warm during use.
This is not a malfunction.

• Disconnect the AC adaptor and DC cable
when the camera is not in use.

Inserting/Removing
the Card

• Check that the camera is turned off.

• Close the flash.

• Prepare a card.

1 Slide the card door to open it.

1

A

• Pull open the DC cable cover  and

then connect the DC cable to the
camera body using the same steps as
“Inserting/Removing the Battery” (P20).
Pull the DC cable through the opening
as shown in the illustration and then
close the battery door.

• Be careful not to catch the DC cable
when closing the battery door.

2 Insert:

Insert the card fully until it clicks
and it is locked.

Remove:
Push the card until it clicks, then
pull the card out upright.

PUSH T

LOCK / EJE

• Check the direction of the card.

O

CT

21

Preparation

1

P

STANDARD

ISO

100

AUTO

WB

19

SINGLE

NORMAL

CUSTOM

-

1+1+10-2

+2

ISO

100

F5.6

125

P

125F

5.6

STD

19

• Do not touch the connection terminals
on the back side of the card.

• The card may be damaged if it is not
fully inserted.

3  Close the card door.

 Slide the card door to the end

and then close it firmly.

• If the card door cannot be completely
closed, remove the card and insert it
again.

• Always turn the camera off before
opening the card door.

• The card and the data may be damaged
if it is inserted or removed while the
camera is on.

About the Card

w Access to the card

The card access indication  lights when
pictures are being recorded onto the card.

125

5.6

STANDARD

WB

AUTO

ISO

100

SINGLE

2

BC

1

: Viewfinder Display
: When taking pictures with Live View

When the card access indication lights,
pictures are being read or deleted or the
card is being formatted (P97). Do not:

• turn the camera off.

• remove the battery or the card.

• shake or impact the camera.

• disconnect the DC cable if you use the AC
adaptor.

The card and the data may be damaged or
the camera may not operate normally.

w About handling a card

Transfer important pictures from your card
to your PC periodically (P98). The data on
the card may be damaged or lost due to
electromagnetic waves, static electricity,
the camera breaking down or a defective
card.

• Do not format the card on your PC or
other equipment. Format it on the camera
only to ensure proper operation. (P97)

F5.6

A

125

CUSTOM

NORMAL

+2

19

ISO

100

STD

19

22

• The reading/writing speed of an SD
Memory Card and an SDHC Memory
Card is fast. Both types of cards are
equipped with a Write-Protect switch 
that prevents writing and formatting the
card. (If the switch is slid to the [LOCK]
side, it is not possible to write or delete
data on the card and format it. When the
switch is slid to the other side, these
functions become available.)

SD Memory Card



• Refer to P120 for information about the
number of recordable pictures for each
card.

• This camera is compatible with SD
Memory Cards based on SD Memory
Card Specifications and formatted in
FAT12 system and FAT16 system. It is
also compatible with SDHC Memory
Cards based on SD Memory Card
Specifications and formatted in FAT32
system.

• The SDHC Memory Card is a memory
card standard decided by the SD
Association in 2006 for high capacity
memory cards more than 2 GB.

• This camera is compatible with both an
SD Memory Card and an SDHC Memory
Card. You can use an SDHC Memory
Card in equipment that is compatible with
SDHC Memory Cards however you
cannot use an SDHC Memory Card in
equipment that is only compatible with SD
Memory Cards. (If you use an SDHC
Memory Card in other equipment, always
read the operating instructions for the
other equipment.)

Preparation

• The SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory
Card and MultiMediaCard are small,
lightweight, removable external cards.

• The reading/writing speed of a
MultiMediaCard is slower than an SD
Memory Card or an SDHC Memory Card.
When a MultiMediaCard is used, the
performance of certain features may be
slightly slower than advertised.

• Keep the Memory Card out of reach of
children to prevent swallowing.

Attaching the Lens
Hood

In bright sunlight or backlight, the lens hood
will minimize lens flare and ghosting. The
lens hood cuts off excess lighting and
improves the picture quality.

• Check that the camera is turned off.

• Close the flash.

Insert the lens hood on the lens
with the short sides at the top and
bottom and then turn it in the
direction of the arrow until it
clicks.



: Fitting to the mark.

23

Preparation

w Temporarily storing the lens hood

1 Turn the lens hood in the

direction of the arrow to detach it.

2 Reverse the lens hood and then

attach it in the same way as
shown previously.

Attaching the Strap

1 Pass the strap through the hole at

the strap eyelet.

A

: Eyepiece cap

• Attach the strap so that the side with
the eyepiece cap attached to it is near
the Viewfinder.

2 Pass the strap through the

stopper and fasten the strap.

• Attach the lens cap.

• When temporarily storing the lens hood,
check that it is firmly attached and that it
does not appear in the picture.

• Hold the short sides of the lens hood
when attaching or detaching it.

• When taking pictures with the flash with
the lens hood attached, the lower portion
of the screen may turn dark (vignetting
effect) and the control of the flash may be
disabled because the flash reflector may
be obscured by the lens hood. We
recommend detaching the lens hood.

• When using the AF assist lamp in the
dark, detach the lens hood.

• For details on how to attach filters refer to
P106.

• For information about optional accesso­ries, refer to “Accessories“. (P125)

24

B



: Pull the strap 2 cm (0.07 feet) or more.

• Attach the strap to the other side of the
camera also so that is does not get
twisted.

• Check that the strap is firmly attached to
the camera.

• Attach the strap so that the Leica Logo is
on the outside.

Attaching the Eyepiece
Cap

When taking pictures with your eye removed
from the viewfinder, light may enter the
viewfinder and affect the exposure and focus.
Attach the eyepiece cap so that light does
not enter the viewfinder and prevent
accurate exposure when taking pictures
with Live View (P50) or the Self-timer (P67)
and when using the remote Control Unit.
(CR-DC1; optional) (P107)

1 Slide the eye cup up to detach it.

2 Slide the eyepiece cap down.

• The eyepiece cap is attached to the
strap.

w Attaching the eye cup

Slide the eye cup down.

Preparation

Turning the Camera On

Set the camera ON/OFF switch to
[ON].

ON

OFF

• The camera turns off when you set the
switch to [OFF].

Dust reduction function

When the camera is turned on, the dust
reduction function is automatically
activated to shake off any dust on the front
part of the image sensor.

• Be careful not to lose the eye cup.

25

Preparation

Setting Date/Time
(Clock Set)

w Initial setting

The clock is not set so the following screen
appears when you turn the camera on.

ON

OFF

A

B

PLEASE SET THE CLOCK

: [MENU/SET] button
: Cursor buttons

1 Press [MENU/SET].

2 Press /// to select the

date and time.

CLOCK SET

00 00

SELECT SET EXIT

: Time at the home area
: Time at the travel destination

(P108)

/: Select the desired item
/: Set the display order for the date

and time.

• Press [DELETE] to cancel the time
setup.

• Refer to [WORLD TIME] (P108) for
information about setting the local time
at the travel destination area [ ].

CLOCK SET

:
:

JAN

11 2006

:

..

M/D/Y

MENU

SET

A
B

CANCEL

MENU

.

3 Press [MENU/SET] several times

to close the menu.

• Turn the camera off after finishing
setting the clock. Then turn it on and
check that the clock setting is correct.

w Changing the clock setting
1 Press [MENU/SET] to display the menu

screen and then press .

2 Press  to select the [SETUP] menu

icon [ ] and then press . (P27)

3 Press / to select [CLOCK SET] and

then press . Set as shown on steps

3.

and

1

EXIT

/

3

n

5 MIN.

MENU

0

SET UP

SELECT

CLOCK SET
WORLD TIME
MONITOR
AUTO REVIEW
POWER SAVE

• When a fully charged battery has been
inserted for more than 24 hours, the clock
setting is stored (in the camera) for at
least 3 months even if the battery is
removed.

• You can set the year from 2000 to 2099.
The 24-hour system is used.

• If the date is not set in the camera it will
not be printed when you use a photo
printing service, even if the store provides
a date printing option for your
photographs. (P93)

2

26

About the Setup Menu

• Set items as required. (Refer to P28 to 30
for each menu item.)

• The following example shows how to set
[BEEP].

• Select [RESET] to return the settings to
the initial settings at the time of purchase.
(P29)

1 Press [MENU/SET] and then

press .

1

SET

A

EXIT

EXIT

EXIT

/

OFF

1

/

n

5 MIN.

1

/

n

5 MIN.

3

MENU

SET

MENU

3

0

MENU

3

0

MENU

REC

FILM MODE
PICT.SIZE
QUALITY
RAW REC.

ASPECT

SELECT

2 Press  to select the [SETUP]

menu icon [ ] and then press .

SET UP

CLOCK
WORLD TIME
MONITOR
AUTO REVIEW
POWER SAVE

SELECT

3 Press / to select the menu

item.

SET UP

CLOCK SET
WORLD TIME
MONITOR
AUTO REVIEW
POWER SAVE

SELECT

Preparation

4 Press, press / to select the

setting and then press [MENU/
SET].

2

SET

/

3

4k

MENU

MENU

SET

SET UP

SELECT

MF ASSIST

BEEP

NO.

RESET
RESET
USB MODE

5 Press [MENU/SET] to close the

menu.

• You can also press the shutter
button halfway to close the menu.

w About the menu screen items

• There are 3 menu screens in the [SETUP]
menu (1/3, 2/3, and 3/3).

1/3

SET UP

EXIT

SELECT

1

MF ASSIST
BEEP
NO.

2 MIN.

RESET
USB MODE

SET UP

SELECT

CLOCK SET
WORLD TIME
MONITOR
AUTO REVIEW
POWER SAVE

• You can also use the command dial when
the instructions indicate to use /, e.g.
when selecting menu items to set.

• The next menu screen after 3/3 in the
[SETUP] menu is the first menu screen in
the [CUSTOM] menu.

/

3

n

MENU

0

RESET

2/3

SET UP

EXIT

SELECT

2

/

3

4k

HIGHLIGHT
VIDEO OUT
TV ASPECT

MENU

LANGUAGE

3/3

3

3

OFF

SET UP

NTSC

ENG

EXIT

/

/

3

4

ENG

MENU

2

EXIT

/

3

4k

MENU

SET UP

SELECT

MF ASSIST

BEEP

NO.

RESET
RESET
USB MODE

•Press  at  to switch to the next

menu screen.

27

Preparation

[CLOCK SET]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
Change date and time. (P26)

[WORLD TIME]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
[]:The local time at the travel

destination area is set.

[]:The time at your home area is

set.

• Refer to P108 for information about setting
[WORLD TIME].

[MONITOR]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
The brightness of the screen can be
adjusted in 7 steps.

[AUTO REVIEW]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)

Review time
[1SEC.]/[2SEC.]/[3SEC.]:

The recorded picture appears for
the set time. This is useful for
confirming the focus.

[OFF]: The recorded picture does not

appear automatically.

Zoom time
[1SEC.]/[2SEC.]/[3SEC.]:

The recorded picture is enlarged
4 times and appears on the
screen for the set time. This is
useful for confirming the focus.
The picture is not enlarged if you
use continuous mode, auto
bracket or record a RAW file
simultaneously.

[OFF]: The recorded picture does not

appear automatically.

• If you use burst mode (P64), auto bracket
(P66) or record a RAW file simultaneously
(P79), the auto review function is activated
regardless of the setting for auto review.
(The picture is not enlarged.)

• If [HIGHLIGHT] (P29) is set to [ON], white
saturated areas appear blinking in black
and white when the auto review function is
activated.

[POWER SAVE]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)

[1MIN.]/[2MIN.]/[5MIN.]/[10MIN.]:

Power save mode is activated (the
camera is automatically turned off
to save the battery life) if the
camera has not been used for the
time selected on the setting.

[OFF]: Power save mode is not

activated.

• Press the shutter button halfway or turn
the camera off and on to cancel power
save mode.

• Power save mode is not activated when
using the AC adaptor, connecting to a PC
or a printer and during a slide show.
(However, the setting for power save
mode is fixed to [10 MIN.] while pausing a
slide show or playing back a manual slide
show.)

[MF ASSIST]
(When taking pictures with Live
View only)

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
When taking pictures with Live View in
manual focus, the whole of the screen on
the LCD monitor is enlarged to facilitate
focusing on the subject. (P55)
[4x]: The whole of the screen is

enlarged 4 times.

[10x]: The whole of the screen is

enlarged 10 times.

[OFF]: The screen is not enlarged.

28

[BEEP]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
Set the volume of the focus confirmation
beep, the self-timer beep, and the alarm
beep.

[]:No beep
[]:Soft beep
[]:Loud beep

[NO.RESET]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
Set this when you want the file number of
the next recording to start from 0001.
(The folder number is updated and the file
number starts from 0001.)

• A folder number between 100 and 999
can be assigned.
When the folder number reaches 999, the
number cannot be reset. We recommend
formatting the card after saving the data
on a PC or elsewhere.

• To reset the folder number to 100, format
the card first (P97) and then use this
function to reset the file number.
A reset screen for the folder number will
then appear. Select [YES] to reset the
folder number.

• Refer to P99 for detailed information about
the file number and the folder number.

[RESET]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
The following settings are reset to the initial
settings.

– [REC] mode menu settings
– [SETUP]/[CUSTOM] menu settings

• The following settings are also reset when
you select [RESET].
– [FILM MODE] (P76)
– [CUST. SET MEM.] (P87)
– [WORLD TIME] (P108)
– [FAVORITE] in the [PLAY] mode menu

(P90)

Preparation

• The folder number and the clock setting
are not changed.

[USB MODE]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
Select the USB communication system
after or before connecting the camera to
your PC or your printer with the USB
connection cable (supplied). (P98, 100)

[ SELECT ON CONNECTION]:

Select either [PC] or [PictBridge (PTP)]
if you connected the camera to a PC or
a printer supporting PictBridge.

[PC]:

Set after or before connecting to a PC.

[ PictBridge (PTP)]:

Set after or before connecting to a
printer supporting PictBridge.

• When [PC] is selected, the camera is
connected via the “USB Mass Storage”
communication system.

• When [PictBridge (PTP)] is selected, the
camera is connected via the “PTP (Picture
Transfer Protocol)” communication
system.

[HIGHLIGHT]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
[ON]: When the auto review function is

activated, white saturated areas
appear blinking in black and
white.

[OFF]: No highlight feature.

[ON] [OFF]

• If there are any white saturated areas,
compensate the exposure towards
negative (P40) referring to the histogram
(P52) and then take the picture again. It
may result in a better quality picture.

29

Preparation

• There may be white saturated areas if the
distance between the camera and the
subject is too close when taking pictures
with the flash. If [HIGHLIGHT] is set to
[ON] in this case, these white saturated
areas appear blinking in black and white.

[VIDEO OUT]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
[NTSC]: Video output is set to NTSC

system.

[PAL]: Video output is set to PAL

system.

• Video output is available in playback
mode only.

[TV ASPECT]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)

[]:

Select this if connecting the camera to a
16:9 screen TV.

[]:

Select this if connecting the camera to a
4:3 screen TV.

• The TV aspect setting is effective in
playback mode only.

• [ ] is suitable for displaying pictures
recorded when the aspect ratio setting is
[ ] on the full screen of a 16:9 TV.
However, pictures recorded when the
aspect ratio setting is [ ] or [ ] will
be displayed with black bands on the left
and right of the screen.

• When [ ] is selected, pictures recorded
when the aspect ratio setting is [ ] or
[ ] are displayed with black bands on
the top and bottom of the screen.

• When you select [ ] and use the
Video cable (supplied) for output (P104),
pictures are displayed vertically on the
LCD monitor.

[LANGUAGE]

MENU

Press [ ] to display the [SETUP] menu

SET

and select the item to set. (P27)
Set the language on the menu screen from
the following languages. Press/ to set
the desired language and then press
[MENU/SET].

[ENGLISH]: English
[DEUTSCH]: German
[FRANÇAIS]: French
[ESPAÑOL]: Spanish
[ITALIANO]: Italian
[]: Chinese (Traditional)
[]: Japanese

• If you set a different language by mistake,
select [ ] from the menu icons to set the
desired language.

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