Leica S User manual

LEICA S
Instructions
93572 VI/15/LW/B
Leica Camera AG
I
Am Leitz-Park 5
I
35578 WETZLAR
I
DEUTSCHLAND
Telefon [phone]
I
Telefax [phone]
I
www.leica-camera.com
Umschlag_EN.indd 1 31.07.2015 08:49:04

54a
54b
54
53
53a
49a
49
51
50
52
48
46
47
32
30
31
29 25 2428 2627
19 2018
21
23
22
11
12
13
6
10
14
15
15a
15b
9
8
6
7
16c 16b 16a17 16
12 3
5a 55b
53b
37
36
35
38
33a
33
34
4042 4141b41a 41c
39
43
44 44a 4544b
4
5c
Umschlag_EN.indd 2 31.07.2015 08:49:12

54a
54b
54
53
53a
49a
49
51
50
52
48
46
47
32
30
31
29 25 2428 2627
19 2018
21
23
22
11
12
13
6
10
14
15
15a
15b
9
8
6
7
16c 16b 16a17 16
12 3
5a 55b
53b
37
36
35
38
33a
33
34
4042 4141b41a 41c
39
43
44 44a 4544b
4
5c
Umschlag_EN.indd 2 31.07.2015 08:49:12

Leica S
Instructions
Inhalt_EN.indd 1 12.10.2015 09:34:02

EN
2
FOREWORD Dear Customer,
Leica would like to thank you for purchasing the LeicaS and congratulate
you on your choice. With this unique medium-format digital SLR camera,
you have made an excellent choice.
We wish you a great deal of pleasure and success using your new Leica
S.
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.
Your Leica Camera AG
Note:
Leica is constantly working on developing and optimizing the LeicaS. As
many functions on digital cameras are controlled purely electronically,
improvements and extensions to the range of functions may need to be
installed on the camera at a later date. To do this, Leica releases what
are known as firmware updates at irregular intervals. Cameras are always
supplied from the factory with the latest firmware, but you can easily
download the updates to your camera yourself from our website.
If you register as an owner on the Leica Camera website, you will receive
a newsletter informing you when a new firmware update is available.
Further information on registration and on firmware updates for your
Leica S and on any changes or additions to the details in this manual can
be found on our website under "Customer Service" at:
https://owners.leica-camera.com
To check whether your camera and lenses are running the latest firmware
version, select menu option "Firmware" (see p. 66, 16-19).
Foreword
Inhalt_EN.indd 2 12.10.2015 09:34:02

EN
3
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 accor-
dance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio com-
munications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
FCC Caution:
To assure continued compliance, follow the attached installation instruc-
tions and use only shielded interface cables with ferrite core when con-
necting to computer or peripheral devices. Any changes or modifications
not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
Trade Name: LEICA
Model No.: LEICA S (Typ 007)
Responsible party/
Support contact: Leica Camera Inc.
1 Pearl Count, Unit A
Allendale, New Jersey 07401
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[email protected]
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 S
(Typ 007)
Tested To Comply
With FCC Standards
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE
Contains FCC ID: N5AS007
This transmitter must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with
any other antenna or transmitter. This equipment complies with FCC
radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment and
meets the FCC radio frequency (RF) Exposure Guidelines.
This equipment is tested for specific absorption ratio (SAR) and complies
with FCC/IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled envi-
ronment. This device complies with FCC/IC SAR limit of 1.6 W/kg.
For body worn operation, this equipment has been tested and meets the
FCC/IC RF exposure guidelines when used with the Leica Camera AG
accessories supplied or designated for this product that have no metallic
component in the assembly. Use of other accessories may not ensure
compliance with FCC/IC RF exposure guidelines.
For Canada only:
CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)
This device complies with RSS-210 of the IC Rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interfer-
ence that may cause undesired operation of the device.
This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an
uncontrolled environment and meets RSS-102 of the IC radio frequency
(RF) Exposure rules. This equipment is tested for specific absorption ratio
(SAR) and complies with FCC/IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an
uncontrolled environment. This device complies with FCC/IC SAR limit
of 1.6 W/kg. For body worn operation, this equipment has been tested
and meets the FCC/IC RF exposure guidelines when used with the Leica
Camera AG accessories supplied or designated for this product that have
no metallic component in the assembly. Use of other accessories may not
ensure compliance with FCC/IC RF exposure guidelines.
Inhalt_EN.indd 3 12.10.2015 09:34:03

EN
4
Table of contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS Foreword .............................................................................................. 2
Warning messages ................................................................................ 6
CE mark................................................................................................ 6
Legal information .................................................................................. 6
Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment..................................... 6
Package contents ................................................................................. 6
Designation of parts.............................................................................. 7
Preparations
Attaching the carrying strap................................................................ 8
Charging the battery........................................................................... 8
Inserting and removing the battery into/from the camera ................. 11
Charge level displays ........................................................................ 11
Changing memory cards................................................................... 11
Changing the focusing screen........................................................... 13
Leica S lenses .................................................................................. 14
Fitting and removing ...................................................................... 14
Adjusting the eyepiece ..................................................................... 15
Turning the camera ON and OFF....................................................... 15
Menu control ...................................................................................... 16
Navigating in the menu / setting the functions ................................. 17
Quick access to menu functions ....................................................... 18
Presets
Basic camera settings
Menu language .............................................................................. 20
Date and time................................................................................ 20
Auto power OFF............................................................................. 20
Monitor and top panel display ........................................................ 21
Signal tones................................................................................... 21
Basic picture settings
Photo file format............................................................................... 22
JPEG settings
Resolution ..................................................................................... 22
Working color range....................................................................... 22
Contrast, focus, color saturation .................................................... 22
Resolution ..................................................................................... 22
White balance .................................................................................. 22
Automatic and fixed settings.......................................................... 23
Direct color temperature setting .................................................... 23
Manual setting by metering............................................................ 23
ISO sensitivity .................................................................................. 24
Storage of picture data / memory card management........................ 25
Recording mode
For photos
Shutter release button ................................................................... 26
Interval shooting ......................................................................... 26
Live View mode.............................................................................. 27
Exposure simulation....................................................................... 27
Displays in Live View mode ............................................................ 27
Histogram...................................................................................... 27
Clipping displays............................................................................ 27
Marking of clearly focused subjects (focus peaking) ....................... 28
Grid ............................................................................................... 28
Horizon.......................................................................................... 28
Masking......................................................................................... 28
Enlarging the Live View monitor image ........................................... 28
Distance setting............................................................................. 29
Manual setting of the focus - MF.................................................. 29
Automatic setting........................................................................ 29
AFs – focus priority................................................................... 29
AFc – shutter release priority .................................................... 29
Moving the autofocus metering field in Live View mode............. 29
Exposure metering......................................................................... 30
Exposure metering methods ........................................................ 30
Spot metering........................................................................... 30
Center weighted metering......................................................... 30
Multi-field metering................................................................... 30
Metering memory lock................................................................. 32
Saving with the Joystick ............................................................ 32
Exposure compensation .............................................................. 32
Bracketing .................................................................................. 33
Values above and below the metering range ................................ 34
Inhalt_EN.indd 4 12.10.2015 09:34:03

EN
5
Table of contents
Exposure control
Automatic program ..................................................................... 30
Program shift............................................................................ 31
Aperture priority.......................................................................... 31
Shutter speed priority.................................................................. 31
Manual setting of aperture and exposure time ............................. 33
Taking photographs with the self-timer........................................... 34
Mirror lock-up................................................................................ 35
Depth of field preview button ......................................................... 35
Additional functions
User/application-specific profiles ..................................................... 36
Resetting all custom settings............................................................ 36
Folder management.......................................................................... 37
Formatting of memory card(s)........................................................... 37
Marking picture data for copyright protection ................................... 38
Recording the location with GPS....................................................... 38
Flash mode
General information on flash exposure measurement and control...... 39
Compatible flash units ...................................................................... 39
Flash sync speed.............................................................................. 39
Selecting the sync speed / sync speed range................................... 40
Selecting the firing moment ........................................................... 40
Attaching the flash unit..................................................................... 40
Settings for camera-controlled
automatic flash mode ....................................................................... 41
TTL flash mode................................................................................. 41
Linear flash mode (HSS) ................................................................... 41
Stroboscope flash mode with system-compatible flash units ............. 41
Flash exposure displays in the viewfinder with
system-compatible flash units........................................................... 42
Flash photography with the flash unit-integrated automatic computer ..... 42
Manual flash photography with constant flash power......................... 42
Flash photography via the X contact ................................................. 42
Flash photography via the flash / lower LEMO®jack......................... 42
Video recordings................................................................................. 43
Review mode
Automatic review of last picture........................................................ 46
Review for unlimited time ................................................................. 46
Video playback................................................................................. 46
Setting the volume ........................................................................... 47
Displays in Review mode .................................................................. 47
Review with histogram and clipping indicators................................... 47
Viewing other pictures / scrolling ..................................................... 48
Enlarging the detail ........................................................................ 48
Stepwise enlarging ...................................................................... 48
Maximum enlargement in one step .............................................. 48
Moving the detail ........................................................................... 49
Simultaneous viewing of several reduced pictures .......................... 49
Selection of one of the reduced pictures ..................................... 49
Protecting pictures / clearing delete protection................................ 50
Deleting pictures .............................................................................. 50
Additional functions
Transferring data to a computer........................................................ 51
Connecting and transferring the data using card scanners.............. 51
Data structure on the memory card .................................................. 51
LEICA Image Shuttle......................................................................... 51
Installing firmware updates ............................................................... 51
Wireless data transmission and remote control of the camera........... 52
Miscellaneous
System accessories.......................................................................... 53
Spare parts ...................................................................................... 53
Precautions and care instructions ....................................................... 54
General precautions ......................................................................... 54
Care instructions.............................................................................. 54
Cleaning the sensor.......................................................................... 55
Storage ............................................................................................ 55
Index .................................................................................................. 56
Technical data .................................................................................... 58
The displays
In the viewfinder............................................................................... 60
In the top panel display..................................................................... 61
In the monitor .................................................................................. 62
Menu items......................................................................................... 66
Leica service addresses ...................................................................... 67
Inhalt_EN.indd 5 12.10.2015 09:34:03

EN
6
Legal information
WARNING MESSAGES
• Modern electronic components 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 Leica S, particularly if it is lying on a con-
ductive surface. If only the camera body is touched, this discharge is
harmless to the electronics. However, despite built-in safety circuits,
outer contacts such as those in the bottom of the camera should not
be touched if at all possible for safety reasons.
• For any cleaning of the contacts, please do not use an optical microfi-
ber cloth (synthetic); use a cotton or linen cloth instead! Before touch-
ing 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 Leica S in a dry place with the lens or bayonet
cover fitted!
• Use only the recommended accessories to prevent faults, short cir-
cuits or electric shock.
• The Leica S is protected against spray water and dust. However, it
should not be exposed to rain for prolonged periods.
• Do not attempt to remove parts of the body (covers); qualified repairs
can be carried out only at authorized service centers.
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, CF and USB logos are trademarks.
• Other names, company and product names referred to in these
instructions are trademarks or registered trademarks of the relevant
companies.
The CE identification of our products documents compliance with
the fundamental requirements of the respective valid EU direc-
tives.
93 655 V/15/ LX/D
0682
0682
0682
0682 0682
0682
0682
0682 0682
0682
0682
0682
0682
0682
0682
0682
The production date of your camera can be found on the stickers in the
warranty card and/or on the packaging.
The date convention is:
Year/Month/Day
In the menu, under Camera Information, you will find the specific
approvals for this camera under the point Regulatory Information.
DISPOSAL OF ELECTRICAL AND
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
(Applies within the EU, and for other European coun-
tries 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 (recharge-
able) batteries, these must be removed first and, if necessary, also be
disposed of in line with the relevant regulations.
Further information on this issue is available from your local administra-
tion, your local waste collection company, or in the store where you
purchased this device.
PACKAGE CONTENTS
Before using your Leica S for the first time, please check that the acces-
sories supplied are complete.
– Li-Ion Battery S BP-PRO 1
– Quick Charger S with interchangeable mains plugs
– Carrying strap
– Bayonet cover
– Eyepiece cover
MEANING OF THE DIFFERENT NOTE CATEGORIES IN THIS
MANUAL
Note:
Additional information
Important:
Failure to observe the instructions may cause damage to the
camera, accessories or the photos.
Caution:
Failure to observe the instructions may cause personal injury.
Inhalt_EN.indd 6 12.10.2015 09:34:03

EN
7
Designation of parts
DESIGNATION OF PARTS
Front view
1Shutter release button
2Self-timer LED / sensor for white balance
3Microphones
4Depth of field preview/function button
5Bayonet with
a. contact strip
b. Index point for fitting the lens
c. Lens release button
Top view
6Carrying strap attachment
7Window for range scale
8Focusing dial
9Lens hood bayonet
10 Red index button for changing lenses
11 Shutter speed setting dial
12 Live View button
13 Video record button
14 Top panel display
15 Diopter setting dial with
a. scale
b. Eyecup
16 Accessory shoe with
a. center (firing) contact
b. Control contacts
c. Bore for locking pin
17 GPS antenna
Rear view
18 Main switch with stop positions
19 Viewfinder
20 Joystick
21 Rear setting dial
22 Speaker
23 Cover (closed)
24 LED for recording / data storage on card
25 Review / menu control / function button
26 Menu control / function button
27 Monitor
28 Menu control / function button
29 Menu control / function button
30 Cover (closed)
31 Cover (closed)
32 Brightness sensor
View from right (view without cover)
33 CF card slot with
a. ejection slide
34 SD card slot
View from left (view without covers)
35 LEMO®audio socket
36 HDMI socket
37 LEMO®USB 3.0 socket
38 LEMO®remote control / flash synchronization / audio in/out socket
Bottom view
39 Index hole for guide pin of multifunction hand grip
40 Cover
41 Tripod plate with
a.
1⁄4" thread
b.
3⁄8" thread
c. Index holes for twist lock
42 Battery release lever
43 Battery
44 Battery compartment (battery removed) with
a. contacts
b. Guide strip
45 Contact strip for multifunction hand grip (cover removed)
Battery
46 Contacts
47 Guide slot
48 Socket for charger plug
Charger
49 Battery connecting cable fixed to camera with
a. 3-pin plug
50 Orange LED for charge indicator
51 Green LED for display of the charging process
52 2-pin socket for car charging cable
53 Interchangeable mains plug (Europe/GB/AUS) with
a. release button
54 USA mains plug (interchangeable plug removed)
55 Car charging cable with
a. 2-pin plug for charger
b. Plug for cigarette lighter
Inhalt_EN.indd 7 12.10.2015 09:34:03

EN
8
Preparations
PREPARATIONS
ATTACHING THE CARRYING STRAP
1 2
3 4
CHARGING THE BATTERY
The Leica S is powered by a lithium ion battery (A).
Important:
Batteries from the earlier Leica S models (Order No.14 429) cannot be
used either in the Leica S (Typ 007) or in the multifunction hand grip.
Please use only the Leica battery S BP-PRO1 (Order No. 16 039).
Caution:
• Only the battery type specified and described in this manual, 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-specified
battery types can result in an explosion under certain circumstances!
• The batteries must not be exposed to sunlight or heat for prolonged
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!
• Damp or wet batteries must not be charged or used in the camera
under any circumstances!
• Always ensure that the battery contacts are clean and freely accessi-
ble. Whilst lithium ion batteries are proofed against short-circuit, 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 imme-
diately 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!
• Only the charger specified and described in these instructions, 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, 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.
• Ensure that the power socket used is freely accessible.
• The car charging cable supplied must never be connected while the
charger is connected to the mains.
• Battery and charger must not be opened. Repairs may only be carried
out by authorized service centers.
• Keep batteries out of the reach of children. Batteries can cause suffo-
cation if swallowed.
First aid:
• If battery fluid comes into contact with the eyes, there is a risk of
blinding! Rinse the eyes immediately with clear water. Do not rub the
eyes!
• Obtain medical assistance immediately.
• If leaked fluid gets onto the skin or clothing, there is a risk of injury.
Wash the areas concerned with clear water. Obtain medical assis-
tance.
Inhalt_EN.indd 8 12.10.2015 09:34:04

EN
9
Preparations
Notes:
• The battery must have a temperature of +10°to +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 charg-
ing starts, it is charged to full capacity faster.
• 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 roughly every 25 cycles.
• Both battery and charger become warm during charging. This is normal
and not a malfunction.
• If the two LEDs flash rapidly (> 2Hz) after the start of charging, this
indicates a charging error (e.g. maximum charging time exceeded,
voltages or temperatures outside the permitted ranges, or short cir-
cuit). 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.
• Lithium ion batteries should only be stored partly charged, i.e. not
when fully discharged or fully charged. For very long storage periods,
you should charge the battery for approx. 15 minutes roughly twice a
year to avoid a deep discharge.
• Rechargeable lithium ion batteries generate power through internal
chemical reactions. These reactions are also influenced by the ambient
temperature and humidity. 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.
• Dispose of damaged batteries in accordance with the relevant regula-
tions (see p. 6, 54) at an approved collection point for proper recycling.
• The replaceable battery provides power to a back-up battery which is
permanently fitted in the camera. This back-up battery retains the set
time and date for up to 3 months. If this back-up battery becomes
discharged it must be recharged by inserting 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 require the camera to be turned on. In this case, however, the time
and date have to be set again.
• 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.
Otherwise after several weeks the battery could undergo deep dis-
charge, i.e. the voltage is sharply reduced, as the camera still con-
sumes a small amount of current (e.g. for saving your settings) even
when it is turned off.
Inhalt_EN.indd 9 12.10.2015 09:34:04

EN
10
Preparations
PREPARATION OF THE CHARGER
for use outside the USA
1. Insert the appropriate plug for the local mains power supply into the
charger.
To do this, push up
a. the release button and at the same time push
b. the plug down out of its engaged position.
2. It can then be removed completely downwards.
3. Push the appropriate plug variant into the charger from below until it
engages.
for use in the USA
1. Remove the mains plug fitted at the factory from the charger. To do
this, push up
a. the release button and at the same time push
b. the plug up out of its engaged position.
2. The two pins of the USA plug that are normally horizontal when not in
use can then be folded out.
Notes:
The charger switches automatically to the prevailing mains voltage. In
combination with the car charging cable supplied with the charger, it can
be used in all vehicles with 12V and 24V power systems. In this case
again, it switches over automatically.
CONNECTION OF THE CHARGER
1. Connect up the charger, i.e. insert its cable plug into the socket of
the battery and insert the mains plug into a plug socket.
• The green LED marked CHARGE then starts to flash as confirma-
tion that charging is in progress.
• As soon as the battery has charged to at least 4⁄5of its capacity,
the orange LED marked 80% also lights up.
• When the battery has been completely charged after approx. 3½
hours, 100% capacity has been reached, the flashing green
CHARGE LED changes to a steady light.
Notes:
• The 80% LED lights up after around 2 hours due to the charging char-
acteristics. If the full capacity of the battery is not absolutely neces-
sary, the camera can be ready for use again in a relatively short time.
• The steady light of the green CHARGE LED indicates that the charger
has automatically switched to trickle charging.
2. The charger should then be disconnected from the mains power
supply. There is, however, no risk of overcharging.
Inhalt_EN.indd 10 12.10.2015 09:34:04

EN
11
Preparations
CHANGING THE BATTERY
Preparations
Turn off the camera, i.e. set the main switch to OFF.
Insertion
Push the battery with the contacts facing forward and with its guide
groove
facing the middle of the camera fully into the battery compartment.
It engages automatically in this position.
Removal
1. Turn the release lever in clockwise direction until it stops
• A spring in the battery compartment than pushes the battery
approx. 1cm out.
• The locking mechanism has a detent so that the battery cannot
accidentally fall out even if the camera is held upright.
2. Push the battery approx. 1mm back to disengage the detent, and
3. then pull it out of the compartment or, if the camera is held upright,
allow the battery to slide out into your hand.
1
2
3
CHARGE LEVEL DISPLAYS
Monitor Top panel display Charge status
approx. ≥85%
approx. ≥65%
approx. ≥40%
approx. ≥20%
approx. ≥5%
approx. ≤5%, replacement or
recharging of the battery neces-
sary
CHANGING MEMORY CARDS
The Leica S offers you the possibility of using 2 card types in parallel for
storing of recorded data. It has two card slots, one for SD/SDHC/SDXC
(Secure Digital) cards and one for CF (Compact Flash up to UDMA 7)
cards.
Preparations
1. Turn off the camera, i.e. set the main switch to OFF.
Note:
Do not turn off the camera as long as the LED for data storage is still lit.
2. Open the cover on the right-hand side of the camera, i.e. push back
slightly to unlock, then fold open to the right.
Note:
Do not touch the memory card contacts.
CF cards (CompactFlash)
Insertion
Push the card with the contacts facing towards the camera and with the
front facing towards the front of the camera fully into the slot.
Note:
Ensure that the ejection slide is completely pushed in (see "Removal" on
the following page).
Important:
Do not use force! The contacts in the card slot could otherwise be dam-
aged!
Inhalt_EN.indd 11 12.10.2015 09:34:06

EN
12
Preparations
Removal
1. Push the ejection slide inwards.
• The slide is then pushed out slightly.
2. Press the slide inwards again.
• The card is then pushed slightly out of the slot.
3. Pull out the card.
1
2
SD / SDHC / SDXC cards
Insertion
Push the card completely into the slot with the contacts facing to the
rear and with the beveled corner facing upwards against the spring
pressure until it engages audibly.
click
Important:
Ensure that no SD/SDHC/SDXC card is pushed into the CF card slot as
it might not be possible to remove it again!
Removal
1. Press the card further into the slot.
• The card is released and pushed slightly out of the slot.
2. Pull out the card.
1
2
Close cover
Close the cover and push forward until it engages.
Displays
Memory card faults are indicated by different messages in the viewfinder,
monitor and top panel display.
Notes:
• If the memory cards cannot be inserted, check that they are aligned
correctly.
• The range of memory cards available 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
memory card standards, and Leica Camera AG is unable to provide any
guarantee that they will function correctly.
• Do not remove either a memory card or the battery as long as the red
LED at the bottom right next to the monitor is flashing, indicating
picture recording and/or data saving to the card(s). Otherwise the
unsaved (or not completely saved) picture data may be lost.
• The Leica S offers different variants for the storage of picture data.
Further information on this topic can be found under "Storage of
picture data / memory card management".
• As electromagnetic fields, electrostatic charges, and defects in 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.
• For the same reason we also recommend that the cards are always
stored in an antistatic case.
• The proper function of the camera cannot be guaranteed if WiFi cards
are used.
• SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards have a write 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 is protected.
• Memory cards with a capacity of less than 1GB cannot be used.
Inhalt_EN.indd 12 12.10.2015 09:34:08

EN
13
Preparations
CHANGING THE FOCUSING SCREEN
The Leica S allows the focusing screen to be changed (see also "System
accessories / Interchangeable focusing screens". As standard the cam-
era is supplied with a completely matt screen.
The other focusing screens are delivered individually in a case with twee-
zers and a dust brush.
To change the screen
1. Remove the lens, and
B
A
2. Release the screen frame Afrom its engaged position by pressing the
tab Bwith the tip of the tweezers.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12. The frame with the focusing screen then opens downwards.
C
3. Then grip the focusing screen Cat the small tab using the tweezers,
tilt it forwards slightly and remove.
4. Then place the screen temporarily into the side compartment of the
case.
5. Grip the screen to be installed with the tweezers at its tab, place into
the frame and
6. press the frame upwards into its engaged position with the tip of the
tweezers.
Important:
Proceed exactly as described above when changing the screen. Take
particular care to protect the delicate surfaces of the focusing screens
from scratches.
Inhalt_EN.indd 13 12.10.2015 09:34:09

EN
14
Preparations
LEICA S LENSES
Leica S lenses have a number of characteristic features:
– The focusing ring functions differently, depending on the set focus
operating mode:
– In manual mode (MF), the focus is set in the normal way by turning the
ring - in this case it is already mechanically linked to the lens construc-
tion.
– In autofocus mode (AFs/AFc) it is initially disconnected – so that
holding the lens at the ring does not hinder the motorized adjustment.
However, you can "override" the automatic setting at any time, i.e. set
the focus manually even during AF mode. In this case the ring is
immediately linked to the lens construction as soon as it is turned.
– The internal range scale can be read off through a window.
– They have no aperture setting ring. The aperture is set using the
thumbwheel on the camera body.
Note:
• Some Leica S lenses are also available with integral central shutter.
• Leica Camera AG manufactures its products to the highest standards
of quality. In order to ensure their perfect function, extensive calibra-
tion and testing steps are necessary during the production process.
For this purpose the camera is connected to different testing devices
several times. These important production steps can create minor
shiny spots on the stainless steel bayonet ring. This is not a quality
defect and merely documents the stringent testing of your Leica S.
FITTING AND REMOVING THE LENS
All lenses and accessories with Leica S bayonet can be fitted to the Leica
S.
1
2
Fitting
1. Align the red dot on the lens mount with the button of the bayonet
release on the camera body
2. In this position, insert the lens straight
3. Turning completely to the right causes the lens to engage audibly
and tangibly
1
2
3
Removing
1. Press the release button
2. Release the lens by turning in anti-clockwise direction
3. Remove the lens in a straight line
Notes:
• To prevent the ingress of dust etc. into the interior of the camera, and
in particular to keep the sensor surface free from dust, it is important
to always have a lens or a cover fitted to the camera body.
• For the same reason, when changing lenses work quickly and in an
environment that is as dust-free as possible.
• Leica also carries out firmware updates for lenses at irregular intervals.
You can download new firmware from our website easily yourself to
your lens. Further information can be found under "Installing firmware
updates".
Inhalt_EN.indd 14 12.10.2015 09:34:10

EN
15
Preparations
ADJUSTING THE EYEPIECE
The viewfinder can be adjusted from -3 to +1 diopters to adapt it exactly
to your own eyesight. To do this, turn the knurled ring while observing the
viewfinder image until the borders of the selective metering field are
sharply focused.
Note:
If you are not looking through the viewfinder, e.g. during recordings with a
tripod, we recommend that the eyepiece cover is fitted. This prevents any
influencing of the exposure metering. The cover can be stored on the
carrying strap.
TURNING THE CAMERA ON AND OFF
The Leica S is turned ON and OFF using the main switch. It has three stop
positions:
a. OFF – Camera turned off
b.
FPS – Camera turned on, focal plane shutter in body in operation
– The shutter speed is controlled via the focal plane shutter in the
camera. All speeds are available (see also "Shutter speed setting
dial").
c.
CS – Camera turned on, central shutter in (correspondingly equipped)
lens in operation
– The shutter speed is controlled via the central shutter in the lens.
Speeds of 8-1⁄1000s are available (see also "Shutter speed setting
dial").
Note:
Even when set to CS, the camera operates with the focal plane shutter
when
– A lens without central shutter is fitted, and/or shutter speeds of more
than 8s, or
– less than 1⁄1000s are set.
After turning on, i.e. after selecting one of the two functions FPS or CS,
the LED at the bottom right next to the monitor lights up until the camera
is ready (2s) and the displays appear in the viewfinder and in the top
panel display.
Notes:
• Even if the main switch is not set to OFF, the camera is automatically
turned off if an automatic power off time has been set in the menu and
none of the controls are used in this time.
• When the camera is turned off, running functions, i.e. bracketing and
self-timer operation, are aborted and also deactivated in the respective
menus.
Inhalt_EN.indd 15 12.10.2015 09:34:11

EN
16
The menu control
MENU CONTROL
Most of the operating modes and settings of the Leica S are operated by
a menu control. Navigation and settings in the whole menu are very quick
and simple as
– the menu items are divided into function groups, and
– also five user-defined menu items can be called up directly by holding
the button depressed (quick access).
Controls / calling up menu control
Three of the four buttons to the left and right of the monitor are used for
calling up menu control and for direct access to the function groups,
namely the two buttons on the left and the lower right button.
Note:
All four of these buttons are "soft keys". Outside menu control, e.g. in
Live View and video mode and during the review of pictures on the
monitor, they have different functions that are indicated by correspond-
ing displays.
All settings of the menu items can also be made with the rear thumb-
wheel or the Joystick.
Exiting the menu
You can exit the menu in different ways:
– To switch to recording mode:
Press the shutter release or video record button, or press the Live
View button
– To switch to the recorded data display:
Press the button top right – in this case marked INFO - briefly
– To switch to review mode:
Press the button top right while the recorded data are displayed – in
this case marked PLAY - briefly again
MENU FUNCTION GROUPS
The menu of the Leica S is divided into 3 function groups (see Annex "The
menu items"):
– CAMERA
– IMAGE
– SETUP
Inhalt_EN.indd 16 12.10.2015 09:34:11