Leica M-D Instruction Manual

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Leica M-D

Instructions

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FOREWORD

Dear Customer, Leica would like to thank you for purchasing the Leica M-D and to congratulate you on your choice. With this unique digital view and range ﬁnder camera, you have made an excellent choice.

Foreword

We wish you a great deal of pleasure and success using your new camera. In order to make best use of all the opportunities oﬀered by this high performance camera, we recommend that you ﬁrst read this instruction manual.

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This is a Class B product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference from Information Technology Equipment (VCCI). If this is used near a radio or television receiver in a domestic environment, it may cause radio interference. Install and use the equipment according to the instruction manual.

FCC Note:

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 interfer ence 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 guar antee 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 inter face cables with ferrite core when connecting to com put er 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.: LEICA M-D (Typ 262) Responsible party/ Support contact:

Leica Camera Inc. 1 Pearl Count, Unit A Allendale, New Jersey 07401 Tel.: +1 201 995 0051 Fax: +1 201 995 1684 technicalinfo@leicacamerausa.com

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.

LEICA M-D

(Typ 262)

Tested To Comply With FCC Standards

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

For Canada only:

CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Foreword ...................................................................................56

Warning messages .....................................................................60

Legal information .......................................................................60

Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment ..........................61

Designation of parts ...................................................................62

Table of Contents

Quick-start guide .......................................................................64

Detailed instructions ..................................................................64

Preparations

Attaching the carrying strap ....................................................64

Charging the battery ................................................................65

Changing the battery and memory card ...................................68

Leica M lenses .......................................................................71

Attaching .............................................................................73

Removing ............................................................................73

Operating elements

Main switch .............................................................................74

Shutter button ........................................................................74

Time setting dial .....................................................................75

Basic settings

Date and time .........................................................................76

ISO sensitivity .........................................................................77

Permanent camera settings ....................................................77

Bright line view and range ﬁnder ................................................78

The image ﬁeld selector ...........................................................79

Distance metering .....................................................................80

Exposure metering .....................................................................82

Turning the exposure meter on/oﬀ .........................................82

Exposure modes .....................................................................83

Aperture priority ...................................................................83

Exposure lock ....................................................................84

Exposure compensation .....................................................84

Manual exposure setting ......................................................84

The B setting .......................................................................85

Values above and below the metering range ...........................85

Flash operation .........................................................................86

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Miscellaneous

Taking photographs with the self-timer.....................................90

Playback .................................................................................90

Transferring data to a computer ...............................................90

Using raw data DNG ...............................................................90

Installing ﬁrmware updates ......................................................91

Malfunctions and their resolution ...............................................99

Appendix

Viewﬁnder displays ................................................................100

Index .......................................................................................102

Table of Contents

System accessories ..................................................................92

Spare parts ................................................................................93

Precautions and care instructions

General precautions ................................................................94

Care instructions .....................................................................95

Cleaning the sensor .................................................................97

Storage ...................................................................................98

Technical data .........................................................................104

Leica service addresses ...........................................................108

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The CE identiﬁcation of our products documents compliance with the fundamental requirements of the applicable EU directives.

WARNING MESSAGES

• Modern electronic elements react sensitively to electrostatic discharge. As you can easily pick up charges of tens of thousands of volts, by walking on synthetic carpets for example, a discharge can occur when you touch your camera, particularly if

Warnings/Legal notices

it is placed on a conductive surface. If only the camera housing is touched, this discharge is harmless to the electronics. However, despite built-in safety circuits, the outer contacts, such as the accessory shoe, battery or rear panel contacts, should not be touched if at all possible for safety reasons. If the accessory shoe is not in use, the relevant cover (supplied) should always be in place.

• For any cleaning of the contacts, do not use an optical microﬁber 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 oxidization of the contacts by storing your camera in a dry place with the lens or bayonet cover ﬁtted.

• Use only the recommended accessories to prevent faults, short circuits or electric shock.

• Do not attempt to remove parts of the housing (covers); repairs must be done at authorized service centers only.

LEGAL INFORMATION

• Please ensure that you strictly observe copyright laws. The recording and publication of pre-recorded media such as tapes, CDs, or other published or broadcast material may contravene copyright laws.

• This also applies to all of the software supplied.

• The SD, HDMI, and USB logos are registered trademarks.

• Other names, company and product names referred to in this manual are trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies.

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DISPOSAL OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT

(Applies within the EU, and for other European countries with segregated waste collection systems)

This device contains electrical and/or electronic components and must therefore not be disposed of in general household waste! Instead, it should be disposed of at a recycling collection point provided by the local authority. This costs you nothing. If the device contains standard or rechargeable batteries, these must be removed ﬁrst and also be disposed of in line with relevant regulations. Further information on the subject is available from your local administration, your local waste collection company, or in the store where you purchased this device.

The production date of your camera can be found on the stickers in the warranty card and/or on the packaging and that of the rechargeable batteries on their housing. In the case of the camera, this is written year/month/day and in the case of the rechargeable batteries calendar week/year (WW/YY).

Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment

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DESIGNATION OF PARTS

Figures in the front and rear cover pages

Front view

1 Lens release button 2 Eyes for carrying strap 3 Range ﬁnder viewing window 4 Brightness sensor 5 Self-timer LED

Designation of parts

6 Viewﬁnder viewing window 7 Image ﬁeld selector 8 Bottom cover locking point

Top view

9 Fixed ring with

a. Index for distance setting b. Depth of ﬁeld scale c. Red index button for changing lenses

10 Aperture setting dial 11 Index point for aperture setting 12 Lens hood 13 Focusing ring with

a. recessed grip

14 Shutter release button 15 Function button 16 Main switch with detent position for

– OFF (camera turned oﬀ) – S (single pictures) – C (serial exposures)

–

(self-timer, time/date setting,

or sensor cleaning)

17 Time-setting dial with detent positions for

– A for automatic shutter speed control

– Shutter speeds

– B (Long-time exposure)

–

Flash sync speed (

4000 - 8s (incl. intermediate values)

⁄

⁄180s)

⁄

18 Accessory shoe

1 Leica M lenses with viewﬁnder attachment cover the brightness sensor. Information about

functions with these and other lenses can be found under "Displays in the viewﬁnder", p. 100, and „Leica M lenses ", p. 71.

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Rear view

19 Viewﬁnder 20 Thumb wheel 21 ISO setting with

a. Scale b. Setting disc c. Index point

22 LED for indicating picture mode/recording data

Bottom view

(with bottom cover ﬁtted)

23 Locking toggle for bottom cover 24 Tripod thread A ¼, DIN 4503 (¼“) 25 Bottom cover

(with bottom cover removed)

26 Memory card slot 27 Battery compartment 28 Battery locking slider

Designation of parts

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QUICK-START GUIDE

DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS

YOU WILL NEED THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

– Camera – Battery – Memory card (not supplied) – Charger and mains cable

Quick-Start Guide

PREPARATIONS

1. Charge the battery (see p. 65)

2. Insert the battery (see p. 68)

3. Insert the memory card (see p. 69)

4. Turn on the camera (see p. 74)

5. Set the date and time (see p. 76)

TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS

6. Attach the lens (see p. 73)

7. Set the shutter speed setting dial to

8. Set the subject focus (see p. 80)

9. Turn on the camera (see p. 74)

10. Turn on exposure metering (see p. 82)

11. Correct the exposure, if necessary (see p. 84)

12. Release the shutter (see p. 54)

PREPARATION

ATTACHING THE CARRYING STRAP

A (see p. 75)

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CHARGING THE BATTERY

The camera is powered by a lithium ion battery.

• The green LED marked CHARGE starts ﬂ ashing to conﬁ rm that charging is in progress. As soon as the battery has charged to at

least

⁄5 of its capacity, the yellow LED marked 80% also lights up. When the battery is fully charged, the green LED also changes from ﬂ ashing to continuously lit.

Note:

The

80% LED lights up after around 2 hours due to the charging

characteristics.

The charger should be disconnected from the mains when charging is complete. There is therefore no risk of overcharging.

Preparations

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Caution:

• Only the battery type speciﬁed and described in this manual

(Order No. 14 499), or battery types speciﬁed and described by Leica Camera AG, may be used in this camera.

• These batteries may only be used in the units for which they are

designed and may only be charged exactly as described below.

• Using this battery contrary to the instructions and using non-

Preparations

speciﬁed battery types can result in an explosion under certain circumstances!

• The batteries must not be exposed to heat or sunlight for pro-

longed periods, or to humidity or moisture. Likewise, the batteries must not be placed in a microwave oven or a high pressure container as this results in a risk of ﬁre or explosion!

• A safety valve in the battery guarantees that any excess pres-

sure caused by improper handling is discharged safely.

• Only the charger speciﬁed and described in this manual (order

no. 14 494) is to be used. The use of other chargers not approved by Leica Camera AG can cause damage to the batteries and, in extreme cases, can cause serious or life-threatening injuries.

• The charger supplied should be used exclusively for charging this battery type. Do not attempt to use it for other purposes.

• The car charging cable supplied must never be connected while the charger is connected to the mains.

• Ensure that the mains outlet used for charging is freely accessible.

• The battery and charger must not be opened. Repairs may only be carried out by authorized service centers.

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Notes:

• The battery should be charged before the camera is used for the ﬁrst time.

• The battery must have a temperature of 10°-30°C to be charged (otherwise the charger will not turn on, or will turn oﬀ again).

• Lithium ion batteries can be charged at any time, regardless of their current charge level. If a battery is only partly discharged when charging starts, it is charged to full capacity faster.

• The batteries warm up during the charging process. This is normal and not a malfunction.

• If the two LEDs on the charger ﬂash rapidly (> 2Hz) after starting charging, this indicates a charging error (e.g. maximum charging time exceeded, voltages or temperatures outside the permitted ranges, or short circuit). In this case, disconnect the charger from the mains and remove the battery. Ensure that the above temperature conditions are met and then restart the charging process. If the problem persists, please contact your dealer, the Leica oﬃce in your country or Leica Camera AG.

• A new battery only reaches its full capacity after it has been fully charged and – by use in the camera - discharged again 2 or 3 times. This discharge procedure should be repeated every 25 cycles. To ensure a maximum service life of the battery, it should not be exposed to constant extremes of temperature (e.g. in a parked car in the summer or winter).

• Even when used under optimum conditions, every battery has a limited service life! After several hundred charging cycles, this becomes noticeable as the operating times become signiﬁcantly shorter.

• The battery should be replaced after a maximum of four years, as its performance deteriorates and reliable operation can no longer be guaranteed, particularly in cold conditions.

• Defective batteries should be disposed of according to the respective instructions (see p. 61).

• The replaceable battery provides power to a back-up battery which is permanently ﬁtted in the camera. This back-up battery retains the set date and time for up to 2 months. If this back-up battery becomes discharged it must be recharged by inserting the replaceable main battery. Once the replaceable battery has been inserted, the full capacity of the back-up battery is recovered after about a few days. This process does not require the camera to be turned on.

Preparations

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CHANGING THE BATTERY/MEMORY CARD

Turn the camera oﬀ (see p. 74).

Important:

Do not open the bottom cover or remove the memory card or battery while the red LED on the back of the camera is ﬂ ashing, indicating picture recording and/or data saving to the card. Other-

Preparations

wise the unsaved (or not completely saved) picture data may be lost.

Removing the bottom cover

Inserting the battery

Removing the battery

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Charge level display

You can display the current battery capacity in the viewﬁ nder:

1. Turn on the camera

Only necessary if the viewﬁ nder display has switched itself oﬀ again even though the camera is switched on:

2. Press the shutter release button to the ﬁ rst pressure point

3. Press the function button 2x.

• When pressed repeatedly, the battery and memory card capacities are alternately displayed as percentages. To diﬀ erentiate, when the battery capacity is displayed, a dot also lights up at the top of the display for the battery capacity.

Notes:

• The capacity display appears irrespective of whether the viewﬁ nder display was on before or not.

• Remove the battery if you will not be using the camera for a long period of time.

• A maximum of 2 months after the capacity of a battery left in the camera is exhausted (see also the last note under “Charging the battery”, p. 65), the date and time need to be re-entered.

Inserting the memory card

Removing the memory card

Preparations

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Compatible memory cards

The camera saves the pictures on an SD (secure digital), SDHC (high capacity), or SDXC (eXtended capacity) card. SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards are available from various suppliers and with diﬀerent capacities and read/write speeds. Particularly those with high capacities and read/write speeds allow data to be recorded and retrieved very quickly. The cards have a write

Preparations

protection switch, which can be used to prevent unintentional storage and deletion of pictures. This switch takes the form of a slider on the non-beveled side of the card; in the lower position, marked LOCK, the data on the card is protected.

Only necessary if the viewﬁnder display has switched itself oﬀ again even though the camera is switched on:

3. Press the shutter release button to the ﬁrst pressure point

4. Press the function button 1x

• The relevant value is displayed. 3s after the shutter release button has been pressed to the ﬁrst pressure point, or after the function button has been let go, the display returns to the normal state. When the card's capacity limit has been reached, Full always appears, irrespective of whether the viewﬁnder display was switched on before or not.

Note:

Do not touch the memory card contacts.

Displaying the memory card capacity

You can display the number photographs that can still be taken in the viewﬁnder:

1. Turn on the camera

• The battery capacity is displayed ﬁrst.

2. Press the function button 1x

Notes:

• The range of SD/SDHC/SDXC cards is too large for Leica Camera AG to be able to completely test all available types for compatibility and quality. Although using other card types is not likely to damage the camera or the card, some "no name" cards do not comply with the SD/SDHC/SDXC standards and Leica Camera AG is unable to provide any guarantee that they will function correctly.

• If the memory card cannot be inserted, check that it is aligned correctly.

• As electromagnetic ﬁelds, electrostatic charges, and defects on the camera or the card can lead to damage or loss of the data on the memory card, we recommend that you also transfer the data to a computer and save it there (see p. 90).

• For the same reason, it is recommended that the card is always stored in its antistatic cover.

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LEICA M LENSES

Generally, most Leica M lenses can be used. Details on the small number of exceptions and restrictions can be found in the following notes. They can be used regardless of the lens features, and whether it does or does not have 6-bit coding in the bayonet. In the case of lenses with coding, the camera uses the information transmitted to optimize exposure and image data. Even without this additional feature, i.e. when using Leica M lenses without identiﬁ cation, the camera will deliver excellent pictures in most situations.

Important:

• The following cannot be used: – Hologon 1:8/15mm, – Summicron 1:2/50mm with close-up, – Elmar 1:4/90mm with retractable tube (manufactured from

1954-1968)

– Some versions of the Summilux-M 1.4/35mm (not aspherical,

manufactured from 1961-1995, Made in Canada) cannot be ﬁ tted to the camera or will not focus to inﬁ nity. The Leica Customer Care department can modify these lenses so that they can be used on the camera.

• The following can be used, but risk damaging the camera or

lens: Lenses with retractable tube can only be used with the tube extended, i.e. their tube must never be retracted into the camera. This is not the case with the current Macro-Elmar-M 1:4/90mm, as its tube does not protrude into the camera body even when retracted. It can therefore be used without any restrictions.

Preparations

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The following can be used with restrictions

Despite the high precision of the range ﬁnder on the camera, exact focusing with 135mm lenses with an open aperture cannot be guaranteed due to the very low depth of ﬁeld. Therefore, stopping down by at least 2 stops is recommended.

• Possible, but excluded from the exposure metering

Preparations

– Super-Angulon-M 1:4/21mm – Super-Angulon-M 1:3,4/21mm – Elmarit-M 1:2,8/28mm with serial nos. before 2 314 921.

Notes:

• The Leica Customer Care department can retroﬁt many Leica M lenses with 6-bit coding. (Address, see p. 108).

• When using the Leica Tri-Elmar-M 1:4/16-18-21mm ASPH., the set focal length is not transferred to the camera and thus is not included in the EXIF data for pictures.

• By contrast, the Leica Tri-Elmar-M 1:4/28-35-50mm ASPH features mechanical transfer of the set focal length to the camera, necessary to display the appropriate bright line frame in the viewﬁnder, which is scanned by the camera's electronics and used for focal-length-speciﬁc compensation. This applies to all three versions of the lens (item nos. 11 625, 11 890 and 11

894).

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Attaching the lens

Detaching the lens

Preparations

1. Turn oﬀ the camera

2. Hold the lens at the ﬁ xed ring

3. Align the red index button on the lens with the release button on the camera housing.

4. In this position, insert the lens straight

5. Turn the lens slightly to the right, and you will hear and feel it click into place.

1. Turn oﬀ the camera

2. Hold the lens at the ﬁ xed ring.

3. Press down the release button on the camera housing

4. Turn the lens to the left until its red index button is aligned with the release button.

5. Remove the lens

Notes:

• Generally, to protect against ingress of dust etc. into the interior

of the camera, it is important always to have a lens or a cover ﬁ tted to the camera body.

• For the same reason, when changing lenses work quickly and in

an environment that is as dust-free as possible.

• Camera or lens rear covers should not be stored in your pants

pocket as they attract dust that can get into the camera when they are ﬁ tted.

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OPERATING ELEMENTS

MAIN SWITCH

16 17

Camera operation

The camera is turned ON and OFF using the main switch. This is below the shutter release button and is a lever with four detent positions:

OFF – Camera turned oﬀ

S – Single picture

Pressing the shutter release takes a single picture regardless of how long it is held down for. Activation of the shutter release button is extremely quiet and causes minimum vibration.

C - Continuous series

A series of pictures are taken for as long as the shutter release is held down and the capacity of the memory card used and the internal buﬀ er memory is suﬃ cient. At least 8 pictures are taken in rapid succession, subsequent pictures with a reduced frequency.

- Self-timer

Pressing the shutter release starts the set delay time (see p. 90), then the picture is taken.

Notes:

• After turning on, the camera is ready to use after approx. 1s.

• If the camera is out of use for an extended period or is stored in a case, always turn it oﬀ at the main switch. This prevents any power consumption, including that which continues to occur in standby mode after the exposure meter is turned oﬀ automatically and the display is extinguished. This also prevents pictures from being taken accidentally.

SHUTTER RELEASE BUTTON

The shutter release button has two pressure points:

1. Pressing down to the 1st pressure point

– activates exposure metering and the viewﬁ nder display – saves the metered exposure value in aperture priority mode,

i.e. the shutter speed determined by the camera (for more details, refer to the “Metering memory lock” section on p. 84)

* Depending on card speed

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If the shutter release button is pressed down to this pressure stage, the display stays on. If the camera had previously been in stand-by mode, it will be reactivated and the displays switched on. If you release the shutter button, the metering system and the displays remain activated for around a further 30s (for more details, refer to the sections on p. 82).

Notes:

The shutter button remains blocked if

– the internal buﬀ er memory is (temporarily) full, e.g. after a series

of ≥16 pictures, or

– the memory card inserted and the internal buﬀ er memory are

(temporarily) full, or – the memory card inserted is write-protected, or – the picture numbering of the memory card inserted is used up

(in such a case, format the card outside the camera after saving

the data), or – the battery has exceeded its performance limits (capacity,

temperature, age) – the bottom cover is not in place.

2. Pressing the shutter button all the way down takes a picture. The data is then transferred to the memory card.

Note:

To avoid wobble, the shutter button should be pressed gently, not jerkily, until the shutter is released with a soft click.

TIME THUMBWHEEL

The exposure modes are selected using the shutter speed thumbwheel,

– Aperture priority mode by setting the – Manual mode by selecting a shutter speed of

A position (see p. 83),

⁄4000s to 8s, (inter-

mediate values in ½ step positions are also available), and

– the

shortest possible sync speed of 1⁄180s for ﬂ ash mode,

marked with the symbol (s. S. 89), and

–

B for long exposures (see p. 85).

The Leica M shutter speed dial has no stop, i.e. it can be turned in either direction from any position. It detents at all marked positions and at the intermediate values. Values between the detent positions cannot be used. More details on setting the correct exposure can be found in the sections under the heading: "Exposure metering" from page 82.

Camera operation

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BASIC SETTINGS

DATE AND TIME

Accessing the setting mode:

1. Set main switch to

2. Press the function button for a long time (≥12s, during this time, no other operation process may be carried out)

Actual setting is done only with the function button, the thumbwheel and the viewﬁ nder display.

Camera operation

Setting each of the values:

3. With thumbwheel

Switching between the value groups:

4. Brieﬂ y press the function button

Order of the value groups

Adjusting the year:

Adjusting the month:

Adjusting the day:

Adjusting the hour:

Adjusting the minute:

Leaving the setting mode

1. Press the function button for a long time(≥12s), or turn the main switch from the release button All settings are accepted/saved.

position, or brieﬂ y touch the shutter

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ISO SENSITIVITY

The ISO setting covers a range of ISO 200 – 6400 in

⁄3 ISO increments, and thus enables you to adapt the shutter speed/aperture values to the relevant situation as required. The setting disc with detent positions on the back of the camera is used for this. Turn it so that the index point is opposite the desired value on the scale.

Note:

Particularly at high ISO values and when editing pictures, noise as well as vertical and horizontal stripes may become visible, especially in large, uniformly bright areas of the subject.

PERMANENT CAMERA SETTINGS

This camera saves the picture data in compressed loss-free DNG format. White balance is automatic.

Camera operation

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22:45 PM 22.02.2012

999-9000

8234/999912MP

2.8F 1/8000 12500ISO EV

INFO

BRIGHT-LINE VIEW AND RANGE FINDER

The camera’s bright-line view and range ﬁ nder is not only a very high-quality, large, brilliant and bright viewﬁ nder, it is also a highly accurate range ﬁ nder coupled to the lens. It has a magniﬁ cation factor of 0.68x. The bright-line frames are lit in white by LEDs. The bright-line frames are linked to the range setting to ensure that the parallax - the oﬀ set between the lens and the viewﬁ nder axis is automatically compensated. At a range of below 2m the sensor detects slightly less than shown by the inner edges of the bright-

Camera operation

line frame, and slightly more at longer ranges (see adjacent diagram). These slight variations, which are hardly ever critical in practice, are due to the operating principle. Bright-line frames on a viewﬁ nder camera must be matched to the image angle of the relevant lens focal lengths. However, the nominal image angles change slightly when focusing due to the changing extension, i.e. the distance between the optical system and the sensor plane. If the set range is less than inﬁ nity (and the extension correspondingly greater), the actual image angle is smaller the lens captures less of the subject. In addition, the diﬀ erences in the image angle tend to be greater at longer focal lengths, as a result of the greater extension. In the middle of the viewﬁ nder image is the square range metering image, which is brighter than the surrounding image ﬁ eld. If the exposure meter is turned on, the exposure meter LEDs and the ﬂ ash symbol LED appear at the lower edge of the viewﬁ nder image. For more details about setting the range and exposure metering, as well as ﬂ ash mode, refer to the relevant sections on p. 80/82/86.

All pictures and bright-line frame positions relative to 50mm focal length

A B

Set to 0.7m: The sensor detects approx. one frame width less. Set to 2m: The sensor detects exactly the image ﬁ eld shown by the inner

Set to inﬁ nity: The sensor detects approx. 1 or 4 (vertical or horizontal)

Bright-line frame Actual image ﬁ eld

edges of the bright-line frame.

frame width(s) more.

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IMAGE FIELD SELECTOR

22:45 PM 22.02.2012

999-9000

8234/999912MP

2.8F 1/8000 12500ISO EV

INFO

22:45 PM 22.02.2012

999-9000

8234/999912MP

2.8F 1/8000 12500ISO EV

INFO

22:45 PM 22.02.2012

999-9000

8234/999912MP

2.8F 1/8000 12500ISO EV

INFO

The image ﬁ eld selector extends the possibilities of this built-in universal viewﬁ nder: at any time, you can view frames that do not belong to the current lens. You can then see immediately if, for image composition reasons, it would be better to photograph the relevant subject using a diﬀ erent focal length. If the lever is rotated outwards, i.e. away from the lens, the image ﬁ eld limits for 35 and 135mm focal length are shown. If the lever is rotated to the vertical, centered position, the image ﬁ eld limits for 50 and 75mm focal length are shown. If the lever is rotated inward, i.e. toward the lens, the image ﬁ eld limits for 28 and 90mm focal length are shown.

35mm + 135mm

50mm + 75mm

28mm + 90mm

Camera operation

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RANGE MEASUREMENT

Due to its large eﬀective metering basis, the range ﬁnder on this camera is very precise. The beneﬁts of this are particularly noticeable when using wide-angle lenses with their relatively high depth of ﬁeld.

Superimposed image method

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.

Picture mode

Mechanical metering basis

(Distance between the optical axes of the viewﬁnder window

x Viewﬁnder zoom

= Eﬀective metering basis

and the range ﬁnder viewing window)

69.25mm x 0.68 = approx.

47.1mm

The range ﬁnder metering ﬁeld is visible as a bright, sharply deﬁned rectangle in the center of the viewﬁnder. The focus can be set using either the superimposed image or split image method:

Out of focus In focus

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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.

Picture mode

Out of focus In focus

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Picture mode

EXPOSURE METERING

In this camera, the exposure is metered for the available ambient light though the lens with the working aperture with strong center weighting. The light reﬂected by a bright shutter diaphragm blade in the ﬁrst shutter curtain is measured. The time/aperture combinations suitable for the correct exposure are indicated by the viewﬁnder displays or identiﬁed with their help. In aperture priority mode, the aperture is selected manually, however the camera forms the shutter speed automatically. In this mode a digital LED display provides information on the shutter speed to be used (e.g.

1000)

A light balance (▸▯◂) comprising three red LEDs is used to adjust the exposure for manual settings. If the setting is right, only the central, circular LED lights up.

Turning the exposure meter on/oﬀ

The exposure meter is switched on by lightly pressing the shutter release button down to its 1st pressure point, provided that the camera is switched on with the main switch and the shutter speed dial is not set to B. The readiness of the exposure meter is signaled by the constant lighting of one of the displays in the viewﬁnder:

– in aperture priority mode the digital LED display of the shutter

speed,

– and in manual mode one of the two triangular LEDs lights up,

either individually or in conjunction with the center circular LED. If you let go of the shutter release button without activating the shutter, the exposure meter remains turned on for around 12s more, and the relevant LED(s) remain lit for the same time. If the shutter speed setting dial is set to

B, the exposure meter is dis-

abled.

Notes:

• When the displays have gone out, the camera is in a "stand-by" mode.

• In very low ambient light, i.e. at the limits of the exposure meter, it can take around 0.2s until the LEDs light up.

• In aperture priority mode, if correct exposure cannot be achieved using the available shutter speeds, the shutter speed display gives a warning by ﬂashing (for more details, refer to the "Aperture priority mode" section on p. 83).

• If the exposure meter reading is below its working range in very low lighting conditions and in manual mode, the left hand triangular LED ﬂashes as a warning. In aperture priority mode, the shutter speed is still displayed. If the required shutter speed falls below the slowest possible setting of 60s, this display also ﬂashes.

The appropriate shutter speed for correct exposure, or the variation from a correct exposure setting, are speciﬁed or determined using displays in the viewﬁnder (see following sections).

Page 29

EXPOSURE MODES

The camera provides two exposure modes: Aperture priority mode and manual mode. Depending on the subject, situation and your individual preferences, you can thus choose between

– the familiar “semi automatic” operation, or – setting a ﬁxed shutter speed and aperture.

APERTURE PRIORITY

If the shutter speed thumbwheel is in the

A position, the electronics

within the camera generates the exposure time automatically and continuously in the range of

/4000s to 60s, in accordance with the ﬁlm speed setting, the metered brightness and the manually selected aperture. The calculated shutter speed is displayed in half steps to provide a better overview. For shutter speeds slower than 2s the remaining exposure time is counted down and displayed in seconds after the shutter release. The actually generated and continuously controlled exposure time can however vary from the half step value displayed: For example, if the display shows

16 (the closest value) before releasing the shutter,

but the calculated exposure time is longer, the countdown after releasing the shutter may actually start from

19.

Under extreme lighting conditions, based on all the parameters the exposure meter may generate a shutter that is outside the working range, i.e. brightness values that would require shorter exposures

than

⁄4000s or longer than 60s. In such cases the speciﬁed minimum or maximum shutter speed is nevertheless used, and these values ﬂash in the viewﬁnder as a warning.

Notes:

• As described in connection with the ISO setting on p. 77, a certain amount of noise becomes apparent when using higher sensitivities, and particularly with uniform dark surfaces. To reduce this annoying phenomenon, after pictures with slow shutter speeds and high ISO values the camera automatically takes a second “black picture” (taken with the shutter closed). The noise present in this parallel picture is then digitally “subtracted” from the data for the real picture. This doubling of the “exposure” time can be signiﬁcant at longer exposure times, and must be allowed for. During this time the camera should not be turned oﬀ.

• If you want a darker or brighter reproduction of the subject, it is recommended to set the exposure manually (see p. 84).

Picture mode

Page 30

Picture mode

EXPOSURE LOCK

For compositional reasons, the most important part of the subject is often not in the center of the picture, and as a result such important parts of the subject may be excessively light or dark. Centerweighted metering, however, records only an area in the center of the image and is calibrated to an average gray scale value. Subjects and situations of this type can be overcome very easily even in aperture priority mode, using exposure lock.

Using the function

1. Aim at the important subject detail or alternatively at another detail with average brightness.

2. Press the shutter release button down to the 1st pressure point for measurement and saving. As long as the pressure point is held, a small red dot appears in the viewﬁnder at the top in the digits line for conﬁrmation, and the exposure time no longer changes even if the lighting conditions are diﬀerent.

3. Keeping the shutter release pressed, move the camera to capture the ﬁnal trimming,

4. The shutter can then be released using the exposure originally determined.

Changing the aperture setting after using exposure lock has no eﬀect on the shutter speed, and will lead to an incorrect exposure. Exposure lock is canceled when you remove your ﬁnger from the shutter release pressure point.

EXPOSURE COMPENSATION

Exposure meters are calibrated to a gray scale value, which corresponds to the brightness of a normal, i.e. average photographic subject. If the actual subject detail does not match this assumption, an appropriate exposure compensation can be performed. Particularly when taking several pictures in succession, for instance if for any reason a series of pictures is taken deliberately using slight under or overexposure, exposure compensation is a very useful function: In contrast to exposure lock, once set it remains eﬀective until it is reset. Exposure compensation can be set in the range ±3EV in

⁄3 EV steps (EV: Exposure Value).

1. Turn on the camera

2. Keep the function button pressed down and turn the thumbwheel

• During setting, the digital display in the viewﬁnder shows the relevant value. Even after the shutter release button has been lightly pressed, it appears for a short time.

MANUAL EXPOSURE SETTING

If the exposure setting is performed entirely manually, the shutter speed dial must be clicked to one of the engraved exposure times or to one of the intermediate values. Then:

1. Turn on the exposure meter, and

2. turn the shutter speed dial and /or the aperture setting ring on the lens – in each case in the direction indicated by the triangular LED that is lit up – until only the circular LED is lit up.

Page 31

As well as the direction of rotation of the shutter speed thumbwheel and 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 by at least one aperture stop; turning to the

right is required

Underexposure by at most half an aperture stop; turning to

the right is required Correct exposure Overexposure by at most half an aperture stop; turning to

the left is required Overexposure by at least one aperture stop; turning to the

left is required

Note:

For shutter speeds slower than 2s the remaining exposure time is counted down and displayed in seconds after the shutter release.

THE

B SETTING

B setting, the shutter remains open for as long as the

With the shutter release button is held down (up to a maximum of 60s; depending on the ISO setting). The exposure meter is disabled; however the digital display in the viewﬁnder counts the elapsed exposure time in seconds, for guidance.

Notes:

• Long exposure times can be associated with very heavy picture noise.

• To reduce this annoying phenomenon, following exposures with slower shutter speeds (below approx.

⁄30s) this camera automatically takes a second "black picture" (with the shutter closed). The noise present in this parallel picture is then digitally “subtracted” from the data for the real picture.

• This doubling of the “exposure” time can be signiﬁcant at longer exposure times, and must be allowed for. During this time the camera should not be turned oﬀ.

VALUES ABOVE AND BELOW THE METERING RANGE

If the exposure meter reading is below its working range in very low lighting conditions and in manual mode, the left hand triangular LED (

) ﬂashes as a warning in the viewﬁnder, while the right hand

LED (

) does the same if there is too much light. In aperture priority mode, the shutter speed is still displayed. If the required shutter speed is more than the slowest possible 60s or less than the fastest possible of

s, these displays also ﬂash. As the

4000

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 30s after you let go of 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 to continuously lit, indicating that the meter is ready.

Picture mode

Page 32

Picture mode

FLASH MODE

The camera determines the necessary ﬂash power by ﬁring one or more ranging ﬂashes, fractions of a second before taking the actual picture. Immediately after this, at the start of exposure, the main ﬂash is ﬁred. All factors that inﬂuence the exposure (such as picture ﬁlter and changes to the aperture setting) are automatically taken into account.

COMPATIBLE FLASH UNITS

The following ﬂash units, when used on the camera, are capable of all the functions described in this manual, including TTL ﬂash metering:

• Leica system ﬂash units, such as the models SF 40, SF 64, SF 26, SF 58.

• Flash units that satisfy the technical requirements for a System 3000 System Camera Adaption (SCA), are ﬁtted with the SCA3502-M52 adapter.

Other commercially available ﬂash attachments with standard ﬂash foot and positive center contact, and ﬁred by the center contact (X contact) can also be used.

ATTACHING THE FLASH UNIT

Before attaching a ﬂash unit to the accessory shoe on the camera,

– the cover that protects the accessory shoe when not in use,

must be detached to the rear, and

– the camera and ﬂash unit must be turned oﬀ. When attaching a ﬂash unit, you should ensure that the foot of the ﬂash unit is fully inserted into the accessory shoe and the clamping nut is tightened to prevent it accidentally falling out. This is particularly important for ﬂash units with additional control and signal contacts, because if the position in the accessory shoe changes the necessary contacts can be broken, leading to malfunctions.

Note:

If the accessory shoe is not in use, the relevant cover (supplied) should always be in place.

Page 33

FLASH EXPOSURE CONTROL

Fully automatic ﬂash mode, i.e. controlled by the camera, is available on the camera with the system-compatible ﬂash units listed in the previous section, and in aperture priority

A and manual expo-

sure modes. In addition, automatic illumination control is operational in both exposure modes. This means that in order to ensure a balanced relationship between ﬂash and other lighting at all times, the ﬂash power is reduced by up to 1

⁄3EV as ambient brightness increases. However, if the ambient brightness plus even the shortest possible ﬂash sync time of

⁄180s would cause overexposure, a non-HSS compatible ﬂash unit will not be ﬁred in aperture priority mode (for details on HSS operation, see p. 89). In such cases the shutter speed is governed by the ambient brightness and is shown in the viewﬁnder. In addition, the camera transfers the set sensitivity to the ﬂash unit. This allows the ﬂash unit, provided it has received such information and the aperture manually set on the lens is also input to the ﬂash unit, automatically to adjust its range values accordingly. With system compatible ﬂash units, the sensitivity setting cannot be inﬂuenced from the ﬂash unit as it is transferred from the camera.

Notes:

• Studio ﬂash systems may have a very long burning time. Therefore, when using them it may be useful to select a slower shutter speed than

⁄180s.

• The same applies to radio controlled ﬂash triggers for "unchained ﬂash", as the radio transmission can cause a delay.

• The following sections describe only those settings and functions that are available when using this camera with systemcompatible ﬂash units.

• More details of ﬂash use, in particular for other ﬂash units not specially adapted to this camera and for diﬀerent ﬂash modes, can be found in the relevant manuals.

Picture mode

Page 34

Picture mode

Settings for camera-controlled automatic ﬂash mode

When the ﬂash unit used has been switched on and set to the appropriate mode for TTL ﬂash exposure control (see ﬂash manual), exposure metering must be carried out on the camera:

1. before taking each ﬂash picture by gently pressing the shutter release, so that the display in the viewﬁnder shows the shutter speed or switches to the light balance. If this stage is missed out by fully depressing the shutter release in one quick movement, the ﬂash unit will not ﬁre even if required.

2. The shutter speed dial must be set to

speed (

⁄180s), or to a slower shutter speed (including B). In

A, to the ﬂash sync

aperture priority mode, the camera determines the shutter speed in line with the ambient light, but limits slow shutter speeds in line with the 1/focal length rule to reduce blurring.

3. The desired aperture, or the aperture required for the relevant distance to the subject, must be set.

Note:

If the utomatically controlled or manually set shutter speed is faster

than

⁄180s, the ﬂash is not ﬁred unless the ﬂash unit is HSS-compat-

ible (see p. 89).

Flash exposure displays in the viewﬁnder with system-compatible ﬂash units

A ﬂash-shaped LED appears in the viewﬁnder as conﬁrmation and to display the various operating conditions. This LED appears together with the displays for exposure metering for the ambient light level, described in the relevant sections.

In automatic ﬂash mode

(ﬂash unit set to GNC or TTL)

•

does not appear despite the ﬂash unit being switched on and

ready for use: A faster shutter speed than

s is set manually on the camera

180

and the connected ﬂash unit is not HSS-compatible. In such cases the camera will not ﬁre the ﬂash unit even though it is switched on and ready for use.

•

ﬂashes slowly (at 2Hz) before the picture is taken:

The ﬂash unit is not yet ready to use

•

is lit up before the picture is taken:

The ﬂash unit is ready for use

•

remains continuously lit after taking the picture, and the other displays go out: The ﬂash is still ready to use.

•

ﬂashes rapidly after taking the picture (at 4Hz), and the other displays go out: It is not yet ready to use again.

•

goes out after taking the picture, together with the other displays: Underexposure, perhaps due to the choice of too small an aperture stop for the subject.

Page 35

When the ﬂash unit is set to camera control (A) or manual mode (M)

•

does not appear despite the ﬂash unit being switched on and

ready for use: An exposure time shorter than

/180s has been set manually on the camera. In such cases the camera will not ﬁre the ﬂash unit even though it is switched on and ready for use.

•

ﬂashes slowly (at 2Hz) before the picture is taken:

The ﬂash unit is not yet ready for use.

•

is lit up before the picture is taken:

The ﬂash unit is ready for use.

LINEAR FLASH MODE (HIGH SPEED SYNCHRONIZATION)

Fully automatic, i.e. camera controlled, linear ﬂash operation is available with this camera when using correspondingly equipped Leica system ﬂash units, with all shutter speeds and in aperture priority and manual exposure modes. The camera activates it automatically if the selected or calculated shutter speed is faster than the sync speed of

⁄180s. If the ﬂash unit is set correctly, this

change does not require the photographer to do anything else.

Important:

The range for HSS ﬂash is signiﬁcantly lower than for TTL ﬂash.

Notes:

• Manual exposure control also allows any shutter speed up to the sync speed of

• If shutter speeds faster than

/180s to be set.

⁄180s are used, the ﬂash unit auto-

matically switched to HSS mode.

Picture mode

Page 36

MISCELLANEOUS

TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS WITH THE SELF-TIMER

You can use the self-timer to take a picture with a delay of 12s. In such cases we recommend that the camera is placed on a tripod. Setting and using the function

Miscellaneous

1. Turn the main switch to

2. To start the delay time, press the shutter release button to the

During the delay time, it can be restarted by touching the shutter release button again or the function can be canceled by turning the main switch out of the

2nd pressure point (see p. 74)

• The LED 7 on the front of the camera ﬂashes for the ﬁrst

10s to show the progress of the delay time.

position.

REVIEW

Your photos are played back on your computer. You need one with an integrated or connected card reader.

TRANSFERRING DATA TO A COMPUTER

You will need a card reader to transfer image data from a memory card to a computer. This can be either an integrated card reader or an externally connected device via USB cable.

Data structure on the memory card

The 100LEICA, 101LEICA, etc. folders can each hold up to 9999 pictures.

Important:

In self-timer mode, the exposure is not set by pressing the shutter release button to the pressure point, it is set immediately before the picture is taken.

USING RAW DATA DNG

For further image processing, you need software compatible with the DNG (Digital Negative) format used to convert the saved raw data to the highest quality, for example the raw data converter

Adobe

Photoshop® Lightroom®. It provides quality-optimized algorithms for digital color processing, delivering exceptionally low noise photographs with incredible resolution. During editing, you have the option of subsequently adjusting parameters such as white balance, noise reduction, gradation, sharpness etc. to achieve an optimum image quality.

Page 37

INSTALLING FIRMWARE UPDATES

Leica is constantly working on developing and optimizing its products. As many functions of the camera are entirely controlled by software, some of these improvements and extended functions can be installed at a later date. Leica provides ﬁrmware updates at irregular intervals for this purpose. Information about any resulting changes or additions to the details in this manual can be found on our website. www.leica-camera.com

Procedure:

1. Turn oﬀ the camera

2. Insert the memory card in an integrated card reader, or one connected to your computer

3. Formatting the memory card

4. Download the ﬁrmware ﬁle from our website under the link "FIRMWARE"

5. Save the *.FW ﬁle to the highest level of the card folder structure.

6. Decompress the *.FW ﬁle if necessary

7. Remove the memory card from the card reader

8. Make sure that the camera is switched oﬀ, insert the memory card in the camera and close the bottom cover

9. Keep the function button pressed down and then switch the camera on

The update process begins. This can take up to 15 minutes.

Displays

Viewﬁnder LED

(permanently lit up)

During the procedure

After an update

Battery capacity too low for update procedure

Update not possible*

Err

*e.g. because the camera can't ﬁnd an update ﬁle on the card

Back LED

lights up

goes out

ﬂashes slowly

ﬂashes quickly

Miscellaneous

Page 38

SYSTEM ACCESSORIES

INTERCHANGEABLE LENSES

The Leica M system provides a basis for optimum adaptation to fast and unobtrusive photography. The range of lenses incorporates focal lengths from 16 to 135mm and light intensities up to

Accessories

1:0.95.

FILTERS

Various ﬁlter types and sizes are available for the current Leica M lenses.

Note:

Leica UV/IR ﬁlters specially developed for use on the Leica M8 and M8.2 should not be used on the LeicaM as they can cause color shifts at the edges of pictures, particularly when using wide angle lenses.

MIRROR VIEWFINDER M

Mirror viewﬁnders are available for 18, 21, and 24mm lenses. They feature an exceptionally compact design and a bright viewﬁnder image. Bright line frames like those in the camera viewﬁnder are used to select the trimming (order no. 18mm: 12 022 black, 12 023 silver/21mm: 12 024 black, 12 025 silver/24mm: 12 026 black, 12 027 silver).

UNIVERSAL WIDE ANGLE VIEWFINDER M

The Leica universal wide-angle viewﬁnder M is a thoroughly practical accessory. It can be used without restriction on all analog and digital Leica M models and – just like the viewﬁnder in the camera – uses a reﬂected bright-line frame to outline the picture area for wide angle focal lengths 16, 18, 21, 24 and 28mm. The viewﬁnder is equipped with parallax compensation and a vial (spirit level) for exact leveling of the camera. (Order No. 12 011)

VIEWFINDER MAGNIFIERS M 1.25x AND M 1.4x

The Leica M 1.25x and M 1.4x viewﬁnder magniﬁers signiﬁcantly simplify picture composition when using focal lengths above 35mm. They can be used on all Leica M models and magnify the central area of the viewﬁnder image. The 1.25x viewﬁnder magniﬁer gives the 0.68 x viewﬁnder on this camera a magniﬁcation of

0.85 x, while the 1.4 x gives 0.95 x magniﬁcation. 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 magniﬁers are supplied in a leather bag. 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. 12 004 M 1.25x, 12 006 M 1.4x)

Page 39

FLASH UNITS

The Leica M-D can be used with diﬀerent types of ﬂash unit. Only system-compatible units with the proprietary Leica interface enable camera-based, fully automatic ﬂash exposure control. Leica oﬀers several models with varying speciﬁcations for this.

Note:

Ensure that the accessory shoe cover is always ﬁtted when no accessories are in use.

CORRECTIVE LENSES

For optimum adaptation of the eye to the camera’s viewﬁnder, we oﬀer corrective lenses with the following positive or negative diopter values (spherical): ±0.5/1/1.5/2/3.

CASES

The new M ever-ready case has been specially developed for the new LeicaM. It protects the camera reliably during transport and can be left connected to the camera so that the camera can be used quickly when taking photographs. For eﬀective protection during intensive photography, the front of the case can be detached and the section remaining on the camera then acts as a camera protector. (Order No. 14 547) For your full set of camera equipment, the classic Billingham combination case made of waterproof fabric is also available. This either holds two cameras and two lenses or one camera and three lenses. It has enough space for even large lenses and a ﬁtted M hand grip. A zipped compartment also provides space for a Leica SF 26 ﬂash and for other accessories. (Order no. 14 854 black, 14 855 khaki)

SPARE PARTS Order No.

Bayonet cover M 14 397 Accessory shoe cover M 14 900 Carry strap 439-612.105-000 Li ion battery BP-SCL2 14 499 Charger BC-SCL2 (with EU/USA mains

cables, in-car charging cord) Mains cable for AUS and UK 14 422 and 14 421

14 494

Accessories/Spare parts

Page 40

Precautions and care instructions

SAFETY AND CARE INSTRUCTIONS

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS

• Do not use your camera in the immediate vicinity of devices with powerful magnetic, electrostatic or electromagnetic ﬁelds (e.g. induction ovens, microwave ovens, television sets or computer monitors, video game consoles, cell phones, radio equipment).

• If you place the camera on or very close to a television set, its magnetic ﬁeld could interfere with picture recordings.

• The same applies for use in the vicinity of cell phones.

• Strong magnetic ﬁelds, e.g. from speakers or large electric motors, can damage the stored data or the pictures.

• Do not use the camera in the immediate vicinity of radio transmitters or high-voltage power lines. Their magnetic ﬁelds can also interfere with picture recordings.

• If the camera malfunctions due to the eﬀects of electromagnetic ﬁelds, remove the battery and turn the camera on again.

• Protect the camera from contact with insect sprays and other aggressive chemicals. Petroleum spirit, thinner and alcohol may not be used for cleaning.

• Certain chemicals and liquids can damage the camera’s housing or the surface ﬁnish.

• As rubber and plastics sometimes emit aggressive chemicals, they should not remain in contact with the camera for a long time.

• Ensure that sand and dust cannot get into the camera, e.g. on the beach. Sand and dust can damage the camera and the memory card. Take particular care when changing lenses and when inserting and removing the card.

• Ensure that water cannot get into the camera, e.g. when it is snowing or raining and on the beach. Moisture can cause malfunctions and even permanent damage to the camera and memory card.

• Ensure that the accessory shoe cover is always ﬁtted when no accessories are in use (such as a ﬂash unit).

• If salt water spray gets onto the camera, wet a soft cloth with tap water, wring it out thoroughly and wipe the camera with it. Then wipe down thoroughly with a dry cloth.

SENSOR

• Cosmic radiation (e.g. on ﬂights) can cause pixel defects.

CONDENSATION MOISTURE

• If condensation has formed on or in the camera, you should turn it oﬀ and leave it to stand at room temperature for around an hour. Once the camera temperature has adjusted to room temperature, the condensation will disappear by itself.

Page 41

CARE INSTRUCTIONS

As any soiling also represents a growth medium for microorganisms, you should take care to keep the equipment clean.

FOR THE CAMERA

• Clean the camera only with a soft, dry cloth. Stubborn dirt should ﬁrst of all be covered with a well-thinned cleaning agent and then wiped oﬀ with a dry cloth.

• To remove stains and ﬁngerprints, the camera and lenses 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. The shutter blades may not be touched when doing this.

• All mechanically operated bearings and sliding surfaces on your camera are lubricated. Please remember this if you will not be using the camera for a long period of time. To prevent the lubrication points becoming gummed up, the camera shutter should be released a number of times every three months. It is also recommended that you repeatedly move and use all other controls. The range and aperture adjustment rings on the lens should also be moved periodically.

• Take care not to scratch the sensor for the 6-bit coding in the bayonet, or to get it dirty. Take care also that no grains of sand or similar particles enter the fastening, where they could scratch the bayonet. Only clean this component when dry and do not exert any pressure on the glass cover.

FOR THE BATTERY

Rechargeable lithium ion batteries generate power through internal chemical reactions. This reaction is inﬂuenced by ambient temperature and humidity. Very high and low temperatures shorten the operating time and service life of the batteries.

• Always remove the battery, if you will not be using the camera for a long period of time. Otherwise, after several weeks the battery could become totally discharged, i.e. the voltage is sharply reduced as the camera still consumes a small amount of current (for saving your settings) even when it is turned oﬀ.

• Lithium ion batteries should only be stored in a partially charged condition, i.e. not completely discharged or fully charged (in the corresponding display). If the battery is stored for a long period of time, it should be charged around twice a year for approximately 15 minutes to avoid a full discharge.

• Always ensure that the battery contacts are clean and freely accessible. Whilst lithium ion batteries are proof against short circuits, they should still be protected against contact with metal objects such as paper clips or jewelry. A short-circuited battery can get very hot and cause severe burns.

• If a battery is dropped, check the casing and the contacts immediately for any damage. Using a damaged battery can damage the camera.

• In case of noise, discoloration, deformation, overheating or leaking ﬂuid, the battery must be removed from the camera or charger immediately and replaced. Continued use of the battery results in a risk of overheating, which can cause ﬁre and/or explosion.

• In case of leaking ﬂuid or a smell of burning, keep the battery away from sources of heat. Leaked ﬂuid can catch ﬁre!

• A safety valve in the battery guarantees that any excess pressure caused by improper handling is discharged safely.

Precautions and care instructions

Page 42

Precautions and care instructions

• Batteries have a limited service life. It is recommended to replace it after around four years; this may be necessary sooner if used in a cold environment. (You will ﬁnd the battery manufacture date on its casing. Written: calender week/year(WW/YY))

• Take damaged batteries to a collection point to ensure correct recycling.

• The batteries must not be exposed to heat or sunlight for prolonged periods, or to humidity or moisture. Likewise, the batteries may not be placed in a microwave oven or a high pressure container as this results in a risk of ﬁre or explosion.

FOR THE CHARGER

• If the charger is used in the vicinity of radio receivers, it can interfere with the reception; make sure there is a distance of at least 1m between the devices.

• When the charger is in use, it can make a noise (buzzing) – this is quite normal and is not a malfunction.

• When it is not in use, disconnect the charger from the mains as otherwise it uses a certain (very small) amount of power even when no battery is inserted in it.

• Always keep the charger contacts clean, and never short circuit them.

• The car charging cable supplied

– may only be operated with 12V electrical systems, – may never be connected while the charger is connected to the

mains.

FOR MEMORY CARDS

• While a picture is being stored or the memory card is being read, it may not be removed, nor may the camera be turned oﬀ or exposed to vibrations.

• For safety, memory cards should only ever be stored in the anti-static case supplied.

• Do not store memory cards where they will be exposed to high temperatures, direct sunlight, magnetic ﬁelds or static discharge.

• Do not drop or bend a memory card as this can damage it and result in loss of the stored data.

• Always remove the memory card if you will not be using the camera for a long period of time,

• Do not touch the connections on the rear of the memory card and keep them free of dirt, dust and moisture.

• It is recommended that the memory card be reformatted from time to time, as fragmentation occurs when deleting, which can block some of the memory capacity.

Page 43

CLEANING THE SENSOR

If any dust or dirt particles should adhere to the sensor cover glass, depending on the size of the particles this can be identiﬁed by dark spots or marks on the pictures. The camera can be returned to Leica AG Customer Service (Address: see p. 108) for chargeable cleaning of the sensor; this cleaning is not covered by the warranty.

However, you can do this cleaning yourself:

1. Check whether the camera battery has a capacity of at least 60%

2. Set the main switch to

3. Firstly, keep the function button pressed down, and then press the shutter release button. The shutter opens, thus revealing thesensor for cleaning (if the battery capacity is too low, the shutter will not open and the note

bc (= Battery Capacity) appears in the viewﬁnder).

4. Clean: Make sure you follow the instructions below.

5. After you have ﬁnished cleaning, turn the camera oﬀ with the main switch. The shutter closes again after 10s.

Notes:

• Generally, To protect against ingress of dust, etc., it is important important always to have a lens or cover ﬁtted.

• For the same reason, when changing lenses work quickly and in an environment that is as dust-free as possible.

• As plastic parts can easily pick up a static charge and then attract more dust, lens caps and covers made of these materials should only be stored for short periods in pockets in clothing.

• As far as possible, cleaning of the sensor should be performed in a dust-free environment to prevent further soiling.

• Lightly adhering dust can be blown oﬀ the sensor cover glass using clean and, if necessary ionized gases such as air or nitrogen. It makes sense to use a (rubber) bellows with no brush for this purpose. Special, low pressure cleaning sprays such as "Tetenal Antidust Professional" can also be used in line with their speciﬁed usage.

• If the particles cannot be removed from the sensor in this way, please refer the matter to Leica Customer Service.

• Preventing damage!

• To prevent damage, before switching oﬀ the camera always make sure that no objects can prevent the shutter from closing correctly!

Precautions and care instructions

Page 44

Precautions and care instructions

Important:

• Leica Camera AG accepts no liability for damage caused by the user when cleaning the sensor.

• Do not attempt to blow dust particles oﬀ the sensor cover glass using your mouth; even tiny droplets of saliva can cause marks that are diﬃcult to remove.

• Compressed air cleaners with high gas pressure may not be used as they can also cause damage.

• Take care to avoid touching the sensor surface with any hard objects during inspection and cleaning.

STORAGE

• If you are not using the camera for a longer period of time, we recommend that you:

remove the memory card (see p. 69), and b. remove the battery (see p. 68), (after 2 months at the latest

the date and time that were entered will be lost.

• A lens works like a magnifying glass if bright sunlight shines on the front of the camera. The camera must always be protected from strong sunlight. Use the lens cover and keep the camera in the shade (or immediately put it away in the case) help to prevent damage to the interior of the camera.

• Store the camera preferably in a closed and padded container so that nothing can rub against it and it is protected from dust.

• Store the camera in a dry, adequately ventilated place, where neither high temperatures nor high humidity will occur. When used in humid conditions, the camera should be completely free of all moisture before being stored away.

• Photo cases that became wet during use should be emptied to prevent damage to your equipment caused by moisture and any residues of leather-tanning agent that may be 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 recommended only if a desiccant such as silica gel is placed in the container.

• To prevent the formation of fungus, do not store the camera in a leather case for long periods of time.

• Note the serial numbers of your camera (engraved on the accessory shoe) and lenses, as these are extremely important in case of loss.

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TROUBLESHOOTING

THE CAMERA DOES NOT RESPOND WHEN I TURN IT ON.

– Has the battery been correctly inserted? – Does the battery have suﬃcient charge?

Use a charged battery.

– Has the bottom cover been correctly ﬁtted?

THE CAMERA TURNS ITSELF OFF AGAIN AS SOON AS I TURN IT ON.

– Does the battery have suﬃcient charge to operate the camera?

Charge the battery or insert a charged battery.

– Is there any condensation?

This occurs if the camera is moved from a cold place to a hot place. In this case, wait until the condensation has evaporated.

THE CAMERA SHUTTER REFUSES TO TRIP.

– Picture data is currently being transferred to the memory card

and the back-up memory is full.

– The capacity of the memory card is exhausted and the back-up

memory is full.

– No memory card has been inserted and the back-up memory is

full. – The memory card inserted is write-protected. – The picture numbering of the memory card inserted is used up

(in such a case, format the card outside the camera after saving

the data). – The battery has exceeded its performance limits (capacity,

temperature, age) – The bottom cover is not ﬁtted.

I CANNOT SAVE THE PICTURE.

– Is a memory card inserted? – The capacity of the memory card is full.

THE DATE AND TIME DISPLAYS SHOW INCORRECT VALUES OR ARE BLANK.

– The camera has not been used for a long period, particularly if

the battery has been removed.

Insert a fully charged battery.

Set the date and time.

Malfunctions and their resolution

Page 46

Viewﬁnder displays

APPENDIX

VIEWFINDER DISPLAYS

100

Page 47

1. Bright line frame for 50mm and 75mm1 (example)

2. Metering ﬁeld for distance setting

3. LEDs

(Light Emitting Diodes) for:

Four-digit digital display with dots above and below

Digital display:

– Display of the automatically determined shutter speed for

aperture priority A, or for counting down shutter speeds slower than 1s

– Display of the exposure compensation set (when the

shutter release button is pressed to the 1st pressure point)

– Warning that the metering or setting ranges are over-

shot or undershot using aperture priority A – Display of the time/date (only during setting) – Indicates that the back-up memory is (temporarily) full – Indicates that the memory card is not inserted, dam-

aged or write-protected (

Sd), or the maximum number

of pictures has been reached or the bottom cover is not

ﬁtted – Indicates that the memory card is full (

Full)

– Indicates that there is insuﬃcient battery capacity ( – Indicates that the ﬁrmware update is taking place or has

completed ( – Firmware update not possible (

UP)

Err)

bc)

b. • Dot above:

– Indicates (when lit) that saved metering values are being

used – Indicates date display (only during setting) – Indicates display of the battery capacity (after switching

on the camera or in conjunction with the function

button)

c. • Dot below:

– Indicates (ﬂashing) that exposure compensation is being

used – Indicates time display (only during setting)

triangular LEDs and one circular LED: – For manual exposure setting: Together as a light bal-

ance for exposure compensation. The triangular LEDs

give the direction of rotation of the aperture setting ring

and shutter speed thumbwheel to adjust the exposure. – Warning of values below the metering range

Flash symbol: – Flash ready to use – Details of ﬂash exposure before and after the picture

Viewﬁnder displays

Two

With automatic brightness control adjusted to the ambient brightness. This automatic control is not available for Leica M lenses with viewﬁnder attachments, since they cover the brightness sensor 5 which supplies the information required for their operation. In such cases the frame and displays always maintain a constant brightness.

101

Page 48

KEYWORD INDEX

Accessories ...............................................................................92

Aperture priority .........................................................................83

Battery, inserting and removing ..................................................68

Bright-line view and range ﬁnder .................................................78

Care instructions........................................................................95

Carrying strap ............................................................................64

Keyword Index

Cases ........................................................................................93

Cautions ....................................................................................94

Corrective lenses .......................................................................93

Customer Service, Customer Care............................................108

Data structure on the memory card ............................................90

Designation of parts ...................................................................62

Displays in the viewﬁnder .........................................................100

Distance Setting ........................................................................80

DNG ................................................................................... 77/90

Exposure/exposure control/exposure meter

Aperture priority ......................................................................83

Exposure compensation ..........................................................84

ISO sensitivity .........................................................................77

Manual settings .......................................................................84

Metering ﬁeld ................................................................. 85/104

Metering memory lock .............................................................84

Power Oﬀ ......................................................................... 74/82

Turning on ........................................................................ 74/82

Values above and below the metering range ............................85

Filters ........................................................................................92

Firmware downloads ..................................................................91

Flash operation ..........................................................................86

Flash units ...............................................................................86

Format frame .............................................................. 78/79/100

102

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Image ﬁeld selector ....................................................................79

Info service, Leica Product Support ..........................................108

Interchangeable lenses ....................................................... 71/92

ISO sensitivity ................................................................... 77/104

Lenses, Leica M .........................................................................71

Fitting and removing ................................................................73

Use of older lenses ..................................................................71

Main switch ...............................................................................74

Malfunctions and their resolution ...............................................99

Memory card, inserting and removing .........................................69

Package contents ....................................................................107

Parts, designation of ..................................................................62

Range ﬁnder ..............................................................................80

Metering ﬁeld ................................................................. 80/100

Split image method .................................................................81

Superimposed image method ..................................................80

Raw data ............................................................................ 77/90

Repairs/Leica Customer Care ..................................................108

Review mode .............................................................................90

Sensitivity ......................................................................... 77/104

Shutter release, see also shutter and technical data .......... 74/106

Shutter, see shutter release and technical data

Spare parts ................................................................................93

Storage ......................................................................................98

Technical data ........................................................................ 104

Time and date ............................................................................76

Time setting dial .........................................................................75

Transferring data to a computer .................................................90

Turning on/oﬀ ...........................................................................74

Viewﬁnder ..................................................................................78

Bright-line frame ....................................................... 78/79/100

Displays ................................................................................100

External viewﬁnders .................................................................92

Warning messages .....................................................................60

Keyword Index

103

Page 50

TECHNICAL DATA

Camera type

Leica M-D (Typ 262), compact digital view and range ﬁnder system camera Lens attachment Leica M bayonet with additional sensor for 6-bit coding

Lens system

Technical data

Leica M lenses from 16 – 135mm

Picture format/image sensor

CMOS type, active area approx. 23.9 x 35.8mm (corresponds to usable format of analog Leica M models)

Resolution

5976 x 3992 pixels (24MP) Data format DNG™ (raw data), compressed loss-free, JPEG File size depends on subject Buﬀer memory 1GB Storage medium SD cards up to 2GB/SDHC cards up to 32GB/SDXC cards

Exposure metering Ambient light: Through the lens (TTL), with working aperture, ﬂash light: TTL metering with system-compatible, SCA-3000/2-standard ﬂash units Metering principle/method Metering the light reﬂected by light blades of the 1st shutter curtain onto a measuring cell: heavily center-weighted Metering range At room temperature, normal humidity and ISO 200,at aperture 1.0 EV0 to EV20 at aperture 32. Flashing of the left triangular LED in the viewﬁnder indicates values below the metering range Sensitivity range ISO 200 bis ISO 6400, can be set manually in

Exposure mode

Choice of automatic shutter speed control with manual aperture preselection - aperture priority A, or manual shutter speed and aperture setting

/3 ISO steps

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Flash exposure control Flash unit attachment

Via accessory shoe with central and control contacts Synchronization To the 1st shutter curtain Flash sync time

= 1/

s; slower shutter speeds can be used if sync time is not

180

met: automatic switching to TTL linear ﬂash mode with HSS-compatible Leica system ﬂash units Flash exposure metering With system-compatible ﬂash units, control with center-weighted TTL pre-ﬂash metering Flash exposure compensation Flash units with the appropriate speciﬁcations: in all modes ±3EV

/3 EV steps

Displays in ﬂash mode

Readiness: by means of constant lighting of the ﬂash symbol LED in the viewﬁnder, success control: by further lighting or temporary fast ﬂashing of the LED after the picture has been taken, underexposure display: by the LED going out temporarily

Viewﬁnder Viewﬁnder principle

Large, bright line frame viewﬁnder with automatic parallax compensation

Eyepiece

Calibrated to -0.5 dpt.; corrective lenses from -3 to +3 diopter available

Image ﬁeld limiter By activating two bright lines each: For 35 and 135mm, or for 28 and 90mm, or for 50 and 75mm; automatic switching when lens is attached; frame color: white Parallax compensation The horizontal and vertical diﬀerence between the viewﬁnder and lens is automatically balanced by moving the bright-line frame in line with the relevant distance setting Matching viewﬁnder and actual image At a range setting of 2m, the bright-line frame size corresponds exactly to the sensor size of approx. 23.9 x 35.8mm; at inﬁnity setting, depending on the focal length, approx. 7.3% (28mm) to 18% (135mm) more is recorded by the sensor than indicated by the corresponding bright line frame and slightly less for shorter distance settings than 2m Magniﬁcation(For all lenses)

0.68 x

Large-base range ﬁnder

Split or superimposed image range ﬁnder shown as a bright ﬁeld in the center of the viewﬁnder image Eﬀective metering basis

47.1mm (mechanical measurement basis 69.25mm x viewﬁnder magniﬁcation 0.68x)

Displays

Four-digit digital display with dots above and below, displays, see p. 100

Technical data

105

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Shutter and shutter release Shutter

Metal blade focal plane shutter with vertical movement

Shutter speeds

For aperture priority: (A) continuous from 60s to manual setting: 8s bis

s in half steps,

4000

B: For long-time exposures up to max. 60s, shutter speed for ﬂash synchronization, HSS linear ﬂash mode

Technical data

possible with all shutter speeds faster than

(1/

s with Leica sys-

180

tem ﬂash units with appropriate speciﬁcations

Activation of shutter release button

By integrated motor, low noise operation Shutter release button Two-stage, 1. Activation of exposure metering and exposure lock (in aperture priority mode), 2. Resolution

Turning the camera on/oﬀ

With main switch on the camera top panel, reactivation by touching the shutter release button

s., with

4000

s): Fastest

180

Power supply 1 lithium ion rechargeable battery, nominal voltage 7.4V, capacity 1800mAh.; capacity indicated in the viewﬁnder, operating conditions (in camera): 0°-40°C; Model No.: BP-SCL2; Manufacturer: PT. VARTA Microbattery, Made in Indonesia Charger Inputs: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz, 300mA, automatic switching, or 12V DC, 1.3A; Output: Direct current nominal 7.4V,1000mA/max.

8.25V, 1100mA; operating conditions (charging): 10°-30°C; Model No.: BC-SCL2; Manufacturer: Guangdong PISEN Electronics Co., Ltd., Made in China

106

Page 53

Camera body Material

All-metal magnesium/aluminum body, leather covering, brass top panel and base, black lacquered ﬁnish. Tripod thread A ¼ (¼“) DIN stainless steel in bottom Operating conditions 0°-40°C

Interfaces

ISO accesory shoe Dimensions (Width x Depth x Height) Approx. 138.6 x 42 x 80mm Weight Approx. 720g (with battery)

Package contents

Charger 100-240V with 2 mains cables (Euro, USA, diﬀerent for some export markets), lithium-ion rechargeable battery, carrying strap, housing bayonet cover. Cover for accessory shoe

Technical data

107

Page 54

LEICA PRODUCT SUPPORT

The Product Support Department at Leica AG can answer any technical questions relating to Leica products, including support for the supplied software in writing, on the phone or by email. They are also the contact point for purchasing advice and to order instruction manuals. Alternatively, you can send us your questions using the contact form on the Leica Camera AG homepage.

Leica Camera AG Product Support / Software Suppor t Am Leitz-Park 5 D-35578 Wetzlar, Germany Telephone: +49(0)6441-2080-111 /-108 Fax: +49 (0)6441-2080-490 info@leica-camera.com / software-support@leica-camera.com

LEICA CUSTOMER CARE

The Leica Camera AG Customer Care department or the repair service provided by authorized Leica agents in your country are available for service, maintenance and repairs of your Leica equipment (see the warranty card for a list of addresses).

Leica Camera AG Customer Care Am Leitz-Park 5 D-35578 Wetzlar, Germany Telephone: +49 (0)6441-2080-189 Fax: +49 (0)6441-2080-339 customer.care@leica-camera.com

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