The Leica R4 camera is a manual 35mm camera produced as a joint venture between Minolta and Leitz. Production of the camera started in 1980, and one of the reasons photographers still enjoy using this camera is because it allows for the use of the legendary Leica R lenses and its numerous exposure modes.
Instructions
1. Inspect the camera carefully to make sure it is still sealed against light. Check the light seal around the green window on the back of the R4. The rubber seal needs to have a light springiness to it. If it doesn't, then the seal needs to be replaced as there may be a light leak. Check the hinge seal in this way too. Inspect the take-up spool at the bottom of the camera and make sure it is attached firmly to the black body of the spool. Take the camera to a repair shop before using it if any of these parts are loose or worn.
2. Load film into the Leica R4 by sliding the latch to the film loading door and opening the door. Place the film canister in the empty cavity and turn the film so the film leader lies flat against the middle rectangular area. Pull the film out so the edge of the film can reach across to the mark in the other cavity. Line up the film holes with the sprockets on the spool and tighten it with the outside spool lever. Close the camera and roll the film with the lever until you get to picture 1 indicated in the number window on the top of the camera. Look through the viewfinder to see the type and speed of film you are using.
3. Choose the exposure mode you want from the top dial of the camera. Exposure modes let you manage lighting while taking pictures. Take different pictures while switching between modes for different effects. Write down the exposure mode you use on every shot. This way you can verify it with the printed pictures. Look through the viewfinder to see the speed and aperture you are using. As you change the exposure dial, the viewfinder will show you this change.
4. Unfasten the lens and screw on a different Leica lens. Remove the lens by turning it counter-clockwise and pulling it off. Affix the new lens by turning it clockwise until it is secure on the camera body. Continue taking pictures.
5. Rewind the film when you have finished the roll using the lever on the bottom of the camera. Wind in a counter-clockwise direction. Wait until you no longer feel the film resistance as you wind it back into the film canister. Open the film door, remove the film canister and take it to be developed.
6. Compare the images to the exposures you wrote down. This way you can see what each exposure mode does.
Tags: exposure mode, film canister, bottom camera, lens turning, Look through, Look through viewfinder, make sure