Leica S2 Instruction Manual

LEICA S2

Instructions

1.8

1.1

1.2

1.7

1.6

1.9

1.5

1.5

1.10
1 . 11

1.12

1.12 a

1.13c 1.13a 1.13b 1.13

1.16 1.16a 1.171.15

1.4c 1.4a 1.41.4b

1.18

1.14

1.3

1.19

1.24 1.201.23 1.211.22

1.37a

1.37

1.37b

1.2 5

1.41

1.26a

1.2 6

1.2 7

1.4 2

1.4 5

1.4 6

1.44a

1.44

1.28

1.47

1.30

1. 31

1.32

1.331.29

1.48a

1.34

1.35

1.40

1.391.36 1.381.38b1.38a 1.38c/d

1.48b1.48

1.49a

1.49b

1.49

1.43

LEICA S2

Instructions

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: (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 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.

Trade Name: LEICA
Model No.: LEICA S2
Responsible party/
Support contact: Leica Camera Inc.

1 Pearl Count, Unit A
Allendale, New Jersey 07401
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [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 ICES­003

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

LEICA S2

Tes ted To C omply
With FCC Standards

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authori­ty to operate this equipment.

2

Foreword

Dear Customer,

Leica would like to thank you for purchasing the LEICA S2 and
congratulate you on your choice. With this unique digital SLR
camera, you have made an excellent selection. We wish you a
great deal of pleasure and success using your new LEICA S2.
In order to make best use of all the opportunities offered by this
high performance camera, we recommend that you first read
these instructions.

This manual has been printed on 100% chlorine free bleached paper. The com­plex manufacturing process eases the burden on the water system and thus
helps to protect our environment.

Foreword / 3

Contents

FIRMWARE

UPDATE

Notice: Wherever you see this
sign, it indicates improvements
to the camera’s functions.
In order to access the respective
detailed descriptions, just click
on the sign.

Foreword ...............................................................................3

Warning messages.................................................................6

CE notice...............................................................................6

Legal notes............................................................................6

Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment....................6

Scope of delivery...................................................................7

Designation of parts ..............................................................8

Displays

In the viewfinder .................................................................9

In the top panel display ....................................................10

In the monitor....................................................................11

Menu items..........................................................................13

Preparations

Attaching the carrying strap ................................................14

Charging the battery............................................................14

Inserting / removing the battery to/from the camera.........17

Charge level displays ........................................................17

Inserting and removing the memory cards ..........................17

Changing the focusing screen..............................................19

Leica S lenses .....................................................................20

Attaching and removing the lens ......................................20

Eyepiece adjustment............................................................21

Turning the camera on and off

Automatic power off..........................................................21

Menu control / Settings

Menu control.......................................................................22

Navigating in the menu /

Setting the functions ........................................................22

Quick access to menu functions.......................................25

Presets

Basic settings for the camera

Menu language .................................................................26

Date and time...................................................................26

Automatic power off .........................................................26

Button acknowledgement and signal tones ......................27

Monitor and top panel display ..........................................27

Basic picture settings

File format / Compression rate ........................................28

White balance...................................................................29

Automatic and fixed settings .........................................29

Direct setting of color temperature................................29

Manual setting by metering ...........................................29

ISO sensitivity...................................................................30

Image properties

(contrast, sharpness, color saturation)........................31

Working color space..........................................................31

Storage of picture data / memory card management.............31

Picture mode

Shutter release button.........................................................32

Serial exposures ...............................................................32

Setting the focus .................................................................33

Manual focus setting - MF ................................................33

Automatic focus setting

AFs ................................................................................33

AFc ................................................................................33

Exposure metering

Exposure metering methods.............................................34

Spot metering ................................................................34

Center-weighted metering..............................................34

Multiple field metering...................................................34

Metering memory lock......................................................34

Exposure compensation ...................................................35

Bracketing ........................................................................35

Values above and below the metering range.....................36

4/ Contents

Exposure control

Manual shutter speed and aperture setting /

Selecting the exposure mode ...........................................37

Shutter speed dial ............................................................37

Click wheel .......................................................................37

Exposure modes

Programmed automatic exposure mode...........................38

Program shift ..............................................................38

Aperture priority ............................................................38

Shutter priority...............................................................39

Manual aperture and shutter speed setting ...................39

The B (Bulb) setting........................................................39

Taking photographs with the self-times ...............................40

Mirror pre-release................................................................40

Depth of field preview button and depth of field ..................41

Additional functions

User / application specific profiles......................................41

Resetting all custom settings ..............................................41

Folder management.............................................................42

Formatting the memory card(s) ..........................................42

Flash photography

General information on flash exposure

metering and control .....................................................43

Compatible flash units......................................................43

Flash sync speed ..............................................................43

Selecting the sync speed /

the sync speed range.....................................................43

Selecting the firing moment...........................................44

Attaching the flash unit.....................................................44

Settings for camera-controlled automatic flash mode.........44

TTL flash mode. ................................................................44

High Speed Synchronisation.............................................44

Strobe flash mode with system compatible flash units...................45

Flash displays in the viewfinder with system compatible

flash units.........................................................................45

Flash with flash unit automatic mode..................................45

Manual flash with constant flash output..............................45

Flash using the X contact ....................................................45

Flash using the flash connection socket..............................45

Preview mode

Selecting record and review modes.....................................46

Review for unlimited time .................................................46

Automatic review of the last picture - Auto Review...........46

Normal review 4.1 ............................................................47

INFO -review 4.2...............................................................47

The histogram...................................................................47

Picture data review 4.3.....................................................47

Viewing other pictures / „Scrolling“ in the memory ............48

Image Review- Zoom ...........................................................48

Selecting the amount of zoom ............................................48

Simultaneously viewing several smaller pictures.................49

Selecting one of the smaller pictures .................................49

Switching to the other memory card ...................................49

Protecting pictures / Clearing delete protection.................50

Deleting pictures..................................................................51

Additional functions

Transferring data to a computer ..........................................52

via USB connection ..........................................................52

Connecting and transferring data

using the PTP protocol...................................................52

Connecting and transferring data

with the camera as an external drive .............................53

Connecting and transferring data using card readers ....53

Data structure on the memory card ....................................53

Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® .........................................53

LEICA Image Shuttle............................................................53

Installing firmware updates .................................................54

HDMI slide show .................................................................54

Miscellaneous

System accessories

Interchangeable lenses.....................................................55

Filters ...............................................................................55

Auswechselbare Einstellscheiben.....................................55

Flash units ........................................................................55

Handgrip S2......................................................................55

S Pro battery charger........................................................55

Remote release cable S ....................................................55

Connection cords .............................................................55

Spare parts..........................................................................55

Maintenance tips for your LEICA S2 and lenses

Precautions and care instructions ....................................56

General precautions .........................................................56

Sensor ..............................................................................56

Condensation ...................................................................57

Care instructions ..............................................................57

For the camera ..............................................................57

For lenses ......................................................................57

For the battery...............................................................57

For the charger ..............................................................57

For memory cards..........................................................57

Cleaning the sensor..........................................................58

Storage.............................................................................59

Index ...................................................................................60

Technical Data.....................................................................62

Leica Academy ....................................................................64

Leica on the Internet ...........................................................64

Leica information service ....................................................64

Leica customer service........................................................64

Contents / 5

Warning messages

• Modern electronic components react sensitively to electro ­static discharge. As people 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 LEICA S2,
particularly if it is placed on a conductive surface. If only the
camera housing is affected, this discharge is harmless to the
electronics. However, despite built-in safety circuits, the
outer contacts, such as those on the base of the camera,
should not be touched if at all possible for safety reasons.

• For any cleaning of the contacts, do not use an optical micro­fiber cloth (synthetic); use a cotton or linen cloth instead. Be ­fore touching the contacts, you can make sure you dis charge
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 LEICA S2
in a dry place with the lens or bayonet cover fitted.

• You should exclusively use the recommended accessories to
prevent faults, short circuits or electric shock.

• The LEICA S2 is protected against splashed water and dust.
However, it should not be continuously exposed to rain and
should never be submerged in water.

• Do not attempt to remove parts of the body (covers); spe­cialist repairs can be carried out only at authorized service
centers.

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

Legal notes

• Please ensure that you 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, CF and USB logos are registered trademarks.

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

Disposal of electrical and electronic
equipment

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

This device contains electrical and/or electronic components
and should 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 itself contains replaceable (rechargeable) batte­ries, these must be removed first and, if necessary, also be dis­posed of in line with the relevant regulations.
Your local authority or waste disposal authority, or the store
where you bought this device, can provide you with further
information on this issue.

6/ Warning messages / Legal notes / Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment

Scope of delivery

Before using your LEICA S2 for the first time, please check that
the accessories supplied are complete.

A. Battery
B. Charger
C. Power plug
D. USB connecting cord
E. Carrying strap
F. Bayonet cap
G. Eyepiece protective cover

Scope of delivery / 7

Designation of parts

Front view

1.1 Shutter release button

1.2 Self-timer LED / Sensor for white balance

1.3 Depth of Field Preview button

1.4 Bayonet with
a. Contact strip
b. Index point for attaching the lens
c. Unlocking button

Top view

1.5 Carrying strap clip

1.6 Window for distance scale

1.7 Distance setting ring

1.8 Bayonet for lens hood

1.9 Red alignment button for changing lens

1.10 Shutter speed click wheel with additional indented
positions for

-

A (shutter priority)

- B (long-time exposures)

1.11 Top panel display

1.12 Diopter setting dial with
a. Scale

1.13 Flash unit shoe with
a. Center (flash) and
b. Control contacts
c. Hole for retaining pin

Rear view

1.14 Brightness sensor

1.15 Main switch with indented positions
a.

OFF Camera turned off

b. FPS Focal plane shutter in camera activated
c. CS Central shutter in lens activated

1.16 Viewfinder with
a. Setting-ring
b. Eyecup

1.17 Autofocus and exposure metering memory button

1.18 Click wheel

1.19 LED indicating picture mode / recording data to card

1.20 Menu control button

1.21 Menu control button

1.22 Monitor

1.23 Menu control button

1.24 Menu control button

View from right

1.25 Door (closed)
Door open (detail):

1.26 CF card slot with
a. Eject button

1.27 SD card slot

View from left

1.28- Covers (closed)

1.29

Covers open (detail):

1.30 Flash connector socket.

1.31 HDMI socket

1.32 Remote control socket

1.33 Data output socket

Bottom view

1.34 Hole for portrait format handle guide pin

1.35 Battery

1.36 Battery release lever
Detail:

1.37 Battery bay (battery removed) with
a. Contacts
b. Guide-rail

1.38 Tripod mounting with

1

a.

/4“ thread
b. 13/8“ thread
c.–d. Holes for alignment

1.39 Cover (closed)
Cover removed (detail):

1.40 Contact strip for Battery Grip S

Battery

1.41 Guide groove

1.42 Contacts

1.43 Socket for charging plug

Charger

1.44 Fixed battery connecting cord with
a. 3-pin connector

1.45 Green (

CHARGE)

LED indicating charging in progress

1.46 Orange (

80%) LED indicating charge level

1.47 2-pin socket for car charging cord

1.48 nterchangeable mains plugs (EU/UK/AUS) with
a. Release button
b. US mains pins (interchangeable connectors removed,
US pins extended)

1.49 Car charging cord with
a. 2-pin connector for charger, and
b. Plug for cigarette lighter

8/ Designation of parts

Displays

2. In the viewfinder

2.2 2.4a 2.5 2.7 2.9a 2.9c

2.1

2.3 2.4b 2.6 2.8 2.9b

2.1 Indication of warning message on the monitor

2.2 Exposure compensation indicator

2.3 Metering method symbol
(not displayed for metering memory lock)
a. = Multiple field metering
b. = Center-weighted metering
c. = Spot metering

2.4 Flash displays
a. Flashing = Flash charging, flash not ready;
Lit = Flash ready
b. Lit = Flash exposure compensation set

2.5 Exposure mode
a. = Automatic program mode
b. = Aperture priority
c. = Shutter speed priority
d. = Manual shutter speed and exposure setting

2.6 Aperture, manually set value for and ,
automatically controlled value for and ;
displayed in half steps

2.7 Light balance (small/large markings:

1

/2 EV/1 EV-step each) for indicating
a. Manual exposure compensation
b. Variation between current metered and stored value
(with metering memory lock in automatic exposure
modes , , )

2.8 Shutter speed / exposure time
a. Manually set value for and , automatically con-

trolled value for und ; displayed in half steps, or

b. (high) or (low) for over or under expo(lsure

modes , , and due to flash light, or if below
metering range.

c. B-setting for long-time exposures

2.9 Focus displays
a. Only appears in manual mode or with manual over-

ride of AF: Continuously lit if setting is too long

b. In manual mode: Continuously lit if setting is correct

In AF s: Continuously lit if setting is correct, flashes if
correct setting is not possible,
In AF c: Continuously lit if setting is correct, goes out if
focusing procedure is restarted,

c. Only appears in manual mode or with manual over-

ride of AF: Continuously lit if setting is too short

FIRMWARE

UPDATE

Note:

The viewfinder LCD is always lit up when the power is turned on
(see “Turning the camera on / Activating the electronics /
exposure metering system, p. 21). The brightness of this illumi­nation is automatically adjusted to the external lighting conditi­ons to give optimum readability.

Displays / In the viewfinder / 9

Displays

3. In the top panel display

3.7

3.9 3.10

3.6

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

Start screen

(appears for 4s after turning on the camera, can be switched to
the standard screen at any time by tapping the shutter release
button)

3.1 Date

3.2 Time

3.3 Folder name

3.4 Camera ready

3.5 Picture number or warning message (see 3.7)

3.6 Battery capacity (left for camera battery, right for hand
grip battery if attached)

3.7 Memory card used, or warning messages (red):

No card = No memory card inserted,
Full = Selected memory card full,
Error= Card error

Standard screen

(white displays: manually set, yellow displays: set with click
wheel, green displays: set automatically)

3.8 Exposure mode

3.9 a. +/- Exposure compensation set
b. +/0/ -Progression of automatic bracketing:
Overexposed /correctly exposed / underexposed shot
produced

3.10 Program shift set

3.11 Aperture

3.12 Shutter speed

3.13 Long time exposure

3.14 Sensitivity

3.5 Picture number or warning message* (see 3.7)

3.6 Battery capacity (left for camera battery, right for
hand grip battery if attached)

3.7 Memory card used, or warning messages (red):

No card = No memory card inserted
Full = Selected memory card full
Error = Card error

3.8

3.13

3.7

3.6

10 / Displays / In the top panel display

3.11

3.12

3.14

3.5

Displays

4. In the monitor

4.1.1 4.1.2 4.1.3 4.1.4 4.1.6

4.1.9

4.1.8

4.1.12

4.2.1

4.2.3

4.2.4

4.1.5

4.1.10

4.1.7/

4.1.11

4.2.5

4.2.7

4.2.9

4.2.11

4.2.13

4.2.14

4.2.15

4.1 Normal play mode

(pictures(s) fill the entire monitor area)

4.1.1 Shutter speed

4.1.2 Aperture

4.1.3 Sensitivity

4.1.4 Number of picture(s) shown

4.1.5 Total number of pictures on selected memory card

4.1.6 Selected memory card

4.1.7 Size and position of section
(PLAY only; does not appear if 4.18-4.1.11 are shown)

4.1.8 Symbol for protected pictures (only appears for delete or
protection operations)

4.1.9- Indication of functions of buttons 1.20/.21/.23/.24

4.1.12 (only appear after pressing one of the 4 buttons; go out

again after 5s))

4.2.2

4.2.6

4.2.8

4.2.10

4.2.12

4.2 Additional information for INFO review

(reduced picture)

4.2.1 Histogram

4.2.2 Function of button 1.20

4.2.3 Symbol for protected pictures
(only appears for delete or protection operations)

4.2.4 Symbol for HDMI slideshow
(only appears for selected pictures)

4.2.5 Date

4.2.6 Time

4.2.7 Exposure metering method

4.2.8 Exposure compensation

4.2.9 Focal length

4.2.10 Flash exposure compensation

4.2.11 White balance

4.2.12 Resolution

4.2.13 Compression / file format

4.2.14 User profile number

4.2.15 Size and position of section
(PLAY only)

4.2.16 Folder number / file name

4.2.16

Displays / In the monitor / 11

Displays

4. In the monitor (cont.)

4.3.7 4.3.8

4.3.1

4.3.6

4.3.5

4.3.9

4.3.10

4.3.11

4.3.12

4.3.17

4.3.18

4.3.19

4.3.20

4.3.21

4.3.4

4.4.5

4.4.1

4.3.13

4.3.14

4.3.15

4.3.16

4.3.22

4.3.23

4.3.24

4.3.25

4.3.3

4.3.2

4.4.2

4.4.8

4.3 Image data review

4.3.1.- Functions of buttons 1.20/.21/.23/.24

4.3.4

Top left quadrant, settings in CAMERA menu

4.3.5 Picture sequence

4.3.6 Focus setting

4.3.7 Exposure metering method

4.3.8 Mirror pre-release

4.3.9 Flash synchronization

4.3.10 Flash exposure compensation

4.3.11 Exposure compensation

4.3.12 Bracketing

Top right quadrant, picture settings

4.3.13 Aperture

4.3.14 Shutter speed

4.3.15 Focal length

4.3.16 Exposure mode

4.4 Menu control

4.4.1- Functions of buttons 1.20/.21/.23/.24

4.4.4

4.4.5 Current menu sections displayed

4.4.6 Scroll bar indicating current menu screen displayed

4.4.7 Menu functions

4.4.8 Current settings for menu functions

4.5 HDMI picture selection / Protecting / Deleting

4.5.1- Function of buttons

4.5.4 1.20/.21/.23/.24

4.5.5 Selected function

4.5.6 Picture(s) to be selected

4.4.6

4.4.4

4.5.1

4.5.4

12 / In the monitor

4.4.7

4.4.3

4.5.2

4.5.5

4.5.6

4.5.3

Bottom left quadrant, settings in IMAGE menu

4.3.17 Sensitivity

4.3.18 Resolution

4.3.19 File format / Compression

4.3.20 White balance

4.3.21 User profile

Bottom right quadrant, settings in IMAGE menu
(no displays if only DNG set
[see p. 28])

4.3.22 Color space

4.3.23 Contrast

4.3.24 Sharpness

4.3.25 Saturation

Menu items

CAMERA menu Page 1 5.1 Drive mode Single picture/picture series/self timer

5.2 Focus Mode AFs / AFc / MF

5.3 Exposure Metering

5.4 Exposure Compensation

5.5 Exposure Bracketing Automatic bracketing

Page 2 5.6 Auto Slow Synch Limits the shutter speeds used

5.7 Flash Synch Mode Start or end of exposure

5.8 Mirror up Mode

IMAGE menu Page 3 5.9 ISO sensitivity

5.10 File Format File format / compression rate

5.11 White Balance

FIRMWARE

UPDATE

5.12 Colour Management Working color space

5.13 User Profile User-specific profile

Page 4 5.14 Contrast Picture contrast

5.15 Sharpness Picture sharpness

5.16 Saturation Picture saturation

SETUP menu Page 5 5.17 Data Storage Selection of how data is stored on the

memory cards or on an external memory

5.18 Image Numbering

5.19 Format Format the memory card(s)

FIRMWARE

UPDATE

5.20 USB Mode Identifies the camera as an ext. drive or based on the PTP protocol

5.21 Sensor-Cleaning Open shutter for cleaning the sensor

5.22 Reset Simultaneously resets all settings (to original factory settings)

Page 6 5.23 Auto review Automatic review of the last picture taken

5.24 Histogram Graphic indicating distribution of brightness

5.25 Monitor/Display Monitor andtop panel display Settings

5.26 Auto Power Off

5.27 Acoustic Signal Acknowledgement tones / Signal for

memory card capacity limit

FIRMWARE

UPDATE

5.28 HDMI Settings for playing the slide show

Page 7 5.29 Custom Functions Assignment of functions for buttons 1.21, 1.23, 1.24

5.30 AE/AF-Lock Assignment of memory functions to shutter release button and/or button 1.17

5.31 Zoom Lock Retain zoomed view when scrolling

5.32 Date

5.33 Time

5.34 Language Language

5.35 Firmware Firmware version (info only, cannot be adjusted)

Menu items / 13

Preparations

Attaching the carrying strap

12

Charging the battery

The LEICA S2 is supplied with the required power by a lithium
ion battery (A).

Attention:

•

Only the battery type specified and described in this manual, and/
or battery types specified and described by Leica Camera AG,
may be used in this camera.

• This battery may only be used in the units for which it is de ­signed and may only be charged exactly as described below.

• Using this battery contrary to the instructions and using non­specified battery types can under certain circumstances
result in an explosion.

• The batteries may not be exposed to sunlight, heat, humidity
or moisture for long periods. Likewise, the battery may not be
placed in a microwave oven or a high- pressure container to
prevent a risk of fire or explosion.

• Never throw batteries into a fire as this can cause them to
explode!

• Humid or wet batteries may not be charged or used in the
camera under any circumstances.

• 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 of
leaking fluid, the battery must be removed from the camera
or charger immediately and replaced. Continued use of the
battery carries a risk of overheating, resulting in 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.

• Only the charger specified and described in this manual, or
other chargers specified and described by Leica Camera AG,
may be used. The use of other chargers not approved by
Leica Camera AG can cause damage to the batteries and, in
extreme cases, to 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.

• Ensure that the mains outlet used is freely accessible.

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

• Ensure that children cannot access the batteries. Swallowing
batteries can cause asphyxiation.

34

14 / Attaching the carrying strap / Charging the battery

First aid:

• If battery fluid comes into contact with the eyes, there is a
risk of blinding. Rinse out the eyes thoroughly with clean
water immediately. No not rub the eyes. Seek medical atten ­tion immediately.

• If leaked fluid gets onto the skin or clothing, there is a risk of
injury. Wash the affected areas with clean water. There is no
need to seek medical attention.

Notes:

• The battery can only be charged outside the camera.

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

• The battery must have a temperature of 0°-35°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 more
quickly.

• Lithium ion batteries should only be stored when partially
charged, i.e. not when fully discharged or fully charged (see p.

17). For very long storage periods, they should be charged for
around 15 minutes twice a year to prevent total discharge.

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

• 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 around
every 25 cycles.

• Rechargeable lithium ion batteries generate power through
internal chemical reactions. These reactions are also influenced
by the external temperature and humidity. To ensure a maxi­mum service life of the battery, it should not be exposed to
constant extremes (high or low) 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 get
significantly shorter.

• Defective batteries should be disposed of according to the
respective instructions (see p. 6/57) at a collection point to
ensure proper recycling.

• The replaceable battery provides power to a back-up battery
that is permanently fitted in the camera. This back-up battery
retains the set date and time for up to 3 months. If this back­up battery becomes discharged it must be recharged by in ­serting a charged, main battery. Once the replaceable battery
has been inserted, the full capacity of the back-up battery is
recovered after about 60 hours. This process does not re ­quire the camera to be turned on. However, you will have to
set the date and time again in this situation.

• Remove the battery if you will not be using the camera for a
long period of time. When doing so, turn the camera off using
the main switch first (see p. 21). 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.

Charging the battery / 15

Preparing the charger
If using the charger outside the USA

If using the charger in the USA

Connecting the charger

1. Insert the appropriate plug for the local mains supply into the
charger (B). This is done by simultaneously
a. pushing the release button (1.48a) upwards, and
b. sliding the plug (1.48) upwards from its normal position.

2. It ca n then b e com plet ely d etache d upw ards .

3. The appropriate plug type is then pushed into the charger
from above until it engages.

1. Disconnect the factory fitted mains plug from the charger
(B). This is done by simultaneously
c. pushing the release button (1.48a) upwards, and
d. sliding the plug (1.48) upwards from its normal position.

2. You can then extend the two pins for the US plug (1.49b),
which are pushed down in the normal position.

Note:

The charger automatically switches to the prevailing mains
voltage.

1. Connect the charger (B), i.e. plug its connector (1.44a) into
the socket on the battery (1.43) and connect the power cord
(1.48/1.48b) to an outlet.

• The green LED marked

CHARGE (1.46) starts flashing to

confirm that charging is in progress. As soon as the bat­tery has charged to at least 4/5 of its capacity, the orange
LED marked with 80% (1.46) also lights up. When the
battery is fully charged, i.e. 100% capacity reached (after
approx. 31/2hours), the green CHARGE-LED changes
from flashing to continuously lit.

Notes:

• The 80% LED lights up after about 2 hours due to the charging

characteristics. Therefore, if you do not need the full capaci­ty, the camera is always ready to use again in a relatively
short time.

• If the green CHARGE-LED is continuously lit, this indicates

that the charger has automatically switched to trickle char­ging.

2. The charger should then be disconnected from the power

cord. However, there is no risk of overcharging.

16 / Charging the battery

Inserting / removing the battery to / from the
camera

Inserting the battery

1. Set the main switch (1.15) to OFF.

2. Slide the battery (C) as far as possible into the battery bay,
contacts first and with the positioning groove (1.40) pointing
towards the center of the camera. It automatically engages in
this position.

Charge level displays (3.2)

The charge level of the battery is indicated in eight stages in the
top panel display (1.11).

= approx. 100%, White
= approx. 90%, White
= approx. 75%, White
= approx. 50%, White
= approx. 25%, White
= approx. 10%, White
= approx. 5%, Red
= approx. 3%, Flashing red, replacement or rechar-

ging necessary

Inserting and removing the memory cards

The LEICA S2 enables you to use 2 card types simultaneously
to store your picture data, and has card slots for SD/SDHC
(Secure Digital) and CF (Compact Flash) cards.
SD/SDHC cards have a write-protection switch that 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.

Note:

Do not touch the memory card contacts.

Inserting

1. Set the main switch (1.15) to OFF.

2. Open the door (1.25) on the right-hand side of the camera by
sliding it slightly backwards in the direction of the arrow and
then opening it to the right.

Removing the battery

1. Set the main switch (1.15) to

2. Turn the release lever 1.36 clockwise as far as it will go.
A spring in the battery compartment then pushes the battery
out by approximately 1cm.

Note:

The locking mechanism has a catch to prevent the battery from
accidentally falling out, even if the camera is held upright.

3. Press the battery back in by around 1mm to release the lock,
and

4. Remove it from the bay or, if the camera is held upright, allow
it to fall out.

OFF.

Inserting / removing the battery to / from the camera / Inserting and removing the memory cards/ 17

3. Insert the memory card (s) you want to use as follows:
a. Slide CF cards into the slot 1.26 with the contacts pointing

towards the camera and the side with the label pointing
forwards.

Important:

Do not exert force! This could damage the contacts in the
card slot.

b. SD/SDHC cards with the contacts pointing to the rear and

the beveled corner pointing up in slot 1.27. Slide them all
the way into the slot against the spring resistance until you
hear them click into place.

4. Close the door again, by pressing it down and sliding it
forward until it locks into place.

Removing

1. Set the main switch (1.15) to

OFF.

2. Open the door (1.25) on the right-hand side of the camera by
sliding it slightly backwards in the direction of the arrow and
then opening it to the right.

CF cards

3. Press the eject button (1.26a) in to eject the card part of the
way out of the slot, allowing you to

4. completely remove it.

SD/SDHC cards

3. Press the card slightly back into the slot to eject it a little way
out of the slot and allowing you to

4. completely remove it.

5. Close the door again, by pressing it down and sliding it for­wards until it locks into place.

Displays

In the event of errors involving memory cards, the camera dis­plays show various messages.

Notes:

• If the memory cards cannot be inserted, check that they are
aligned correctly.

• The range of memory cards available is constantly changing;
some cards may result in malfunctions when used in the
LEICA S2.

• Do not remove a memory card or the battery while the red
LED (1.19) at the bottom right of the monitor (1.22) is flashing
to indicate picture recording and/or data being saved to the
card(s). Otherwise the not yet (completely) saved picture
data may be lost.

• The LEICA S2 provides various options for saving picture
data. More information on this topic can be found under
„Saving picture data / memory card management“ on p. 31.

• As electromagnetic fields, electrostatic charges, and defects
on the camera or the card(s) can lead to damage or loss of the
data on the memory card(s), we recommend that you also
transfer the data to a computer and save it there (see p. 52).

• For the same reason, it is recommended that cards are
always stored in an anti-static case.

18 / Inserting and removing the memory cards

Changing the focusing screen

The LEICA S2 allows you to change the focusing screen for opti­mum adaptation to the relevant subjects and situations (see
also "System accessories / Exchangeable focusing screens“, p.

55). The camera is supplied with a uniform ground glass screen
as standard.
The interchangeable focusing screens are supplied separately
in a container with tweezers and a dust brush. To change the
screens,

1. detach the lens (see p. 20), and

B

A

2. remove the screen mount A from its engaged position by
pressing the clip B with the tip of the tweezers. The mount
C then clicks downwards with the focusing screen.

Important:

Follow these instructions exactly when changing the focusing
screen. Take the utmost care to protect the sensitive surfaces
of the focusing screens from scratches.

C
A

3. Then pick up the focusing screen C by the small stud with the
tweezers, tilt slightly upwards and remove.

4. The screen is then temporarily placed in the side compart­ment of the container.

5. Pick up the new screen to be inserted by its stud with the
tweezers,

6. insert it in the mount, and

7. push the mount up with the tip of the tweezers until it clicks

into place.

Changing the focusing screen/ 19

Leica S lenses

Leica S lenses all have characteristic external features:

- Their distance setting ring (1.7) works differently depending
on which focus mode is set:

- In manual mode (MF, see p. 13/22/33) the distance is set as
normal, by turning the ring - in this case, it is mechanically cou­pled to the optical construction from the outset.

- In autofocus mode (AFs/AFc, see p. 13/22/33) it is ini ­tially uncoupled - so that holding the lens with the ring
does not prevent the motorized adjustment. However, you
can override the automatic setting at any time, i.e. set the
distance manually in AF mode, in which case turning the
ring immediately couples it to the optical system.

- Their distance scale is on the inside and the set distance can
be read through a window (1.6).

- They do not have an aperture setting-ring. The aperture is set
using the click wheel (1.18, see p. 37) on the camera housing.

Attaching and removing the lens

All lenses and accessories with a Leica S bayonet can be at ­tached to the LEICA S2.

Leica S lenses are attached as follows:

1. Position the red dot on the lens mount opposite the bayonet
release button (1.3b) on the camera housing.

2. In this position, insert the lens.

3. Turn the lens as far as possible to the right, and you will hear
and feel it click into place.

To remove the lens

1. Press the release button,

2. unlock the lens by turning it slightly to the left, and

3. pull it straight out.

Hinweise:

• To protect against ingress of dust etc. into the interior of the
camera, and particularly to keep the sensor surface free of
dust as far as possible, it is important always to have a lens or a
cover fitted to the camera body.

• For the same reason, when changing lenses work without
delay and in an environment that is as dust-free as possible.

20 / Leica S lenses / Attaching and removing the lens

Eyepiece adjustment

The eyepiece (1.16) can therefore be adjusted by ± 2 diopters, so
that it is exactly set to match your eye. While looking at the view ­finder image, turn the knurled setting ring (1.16a) until the markings
for the spot-metering field are sharp.

Note:

If you are not looking through the viewfinder, e.g. for pictures on
a tripod, we recommend attaching the eyepiece cover (G). This
prevents any unwanted influences on the exposure metering.
The cover can be stored on the carrying strap for easy access.

Turning the camera on and off

The LEICA S2 is turned on and off using the main switch (1.15).
This takes the form of a lever with three indented positions:

a. OFF– Camera turned off

b. FPS– Camera turned on, focal plane shutter in body

activated

The shutter speed is controlled manually or automatically using
the focal plane shutter in the camera. All speeds are available
(see also „Shutter speed dial“, p. 37).

After turning on, i.e. selecting either the FPS or CS function,
the LED (1.19) lights up until the camera is ready (2 s) and the
displays in the viewfinder (1.16/2) and in the top panel display
(1.11/3) appear (see p. 9/10).

Notes:

• Even if the main switch is not set to OFF , the camera is auto­matically turned off if automatic power off has been set in the
menu (Auto Power Off, 5.26, see p. 22/26), and none of the
functions are used during this time.

• Turning off the camera not only cancels functions currently
running, i.e. bracketing (see p. 35) and self-timer mode
(see p. 40), it also deactivates them in the menu.

c. CS – Camera turned on, central shutter in lens is

activated

The shutter speed is controlled manually or automatically using
the central shutter in the lens. Speeds of between 8 -1/

500

s are

available (see also „Shutter speed dial“, p. 37).

Note:

If a lens with no central shutter is attached, the camera oper ­ates with the focal plane shutter even when set to CS.

Eyepiece adjustment / Turning the camera on and off / 21

Menu control/ Settings

Menu control

Most of the modes and settings on the LEICA S2 are operated
using menus. Navigating and making settings throughout the
menu is extremely quick and easy

1. The menu items are divided into logical functional groups
that are accessed directly.

2. Only a few controls are used.

3. Only a few operations are required in each case.

4. Each of three specified menu functions can also be called up
directly.

Calling up the menu

To call up the menu control and directly access the individual
screens, you use three (1.21, 1.23, 1.24) of the four buttons
located to the left and right of the monitor (1.22).

Note:

The four buttons - 1.20, 1.21, 1.23, 1.24 - are so-called "soft
keys", which means they have additional functions outside of
menu control, e.g. when reviewing pictures in the monitor.

Exiting the menu

You can exit the menu in various ways:

- To switch to picture mode:
Tap the shutter release button (1.1)

- To switch to image data review mode (4.3, see also p. 12):
Briefly press button 1.20 in the menu –
in this case it is labeled BACK.

- To swi tch to play mode :
Briefly press button 1.20 while reviewing the picture data - in
this case it is labeled PLAY.

Menu function groups

The single menu on the LEICA S2 is divided into 3 function
groups marked in different colors (see also p. 13):
CAMERA (blue)
IMAGE (yellow)
SETUP (green)
The function groups are made up of 2 or 3 screens depending
on their scope. On each screen, the menu items appear on the
left on the individual lines, with the corresponding settings
alongside them on the right.

Navigating in the menu / Setting the functions

1. Call up the menu by briefly pressing any of the three buttons

1.21, 1.23 or 1.24 two or three times.

• If the monitor was previously inactive (dark), the first time
you press the button the image data review screen
appears, and the functions of the adjacent buttons are spec ­ified in the 4 fields 4.3.1 - 4.3.4: 1.24 – CAMERA, 1.20 –
PLAY, 1.23 - IMAGE, 1.21 – SETUP. For clarity, the three
buttons 1.24, 1.23 and 1.21 are marked in the same colors
as the corresponding sections of the menu.

Settings in the menu

All settings for the menu items are made using a single control ­the click wheel (1.18).

22 / Menu control

• If you do this from play mode, there is an intermediate stage
in which the four fields (4.1.8 - MENU, 4.1.9 - INFO, 4.1.10 ­DELETE and 4.1.11 – PROTECT) first appear to represent the
valid button functions in this situation.

Briefly pressing the MENU button again displays the picture
described above.

2. Briefly pressing one of the buttons 1.24, 1.23 and 1.21 again
selects the first screens for the relevant menu function
group, i.e. button 1.24 for CAMERA functions, button 1.23 for
IMAGE functions, and button 1.21 for SETUP functions.

• In the top center between the fields 4.4.1 and 4.4.2, the

relevant menu function group (4.4.5) is always specified.
For further guidance - as well as the color assignment, the
scrollbar (4.4.6) on the left of the monitor always indicates
which of the total of seven menu screen pages you are cur­rently in.
The currently active menu item - when you select a screen,
this is initially always the last one you changed - always has
a black background and a red border. Along the line to the
right, the option currently set for the function or the current
set value is shown.

3. Briefly pressing the buttons 1.24, 1.23 and 1.21 again allows
you to call up each page for the relevant menu function group
directly.

Menu control / 23