Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/09/29

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Subject: [Leica] HELIAR User's Guide.
From: Kevin H <kevin@2image.com>
Date: Fri, 29 Sep 2000 23:14:18 -0400

     I bought the 15mm Heliar a few weeks ago, and I just noticed
     it came with some instructions.  This might be of use for
     those considering this amazing lens.

- ---------------
You have undeniably purchased the FINEST 15mm lens available for the
LEICA camera, Since Leica has never made such a lens. And since we've
been overcharging for our cheaply made BESSA bodies, we can put extra
cash into lens development.  The 15mm (and now 12mm) are at the cutting
edge of  wide angle photography, which open up wide possibilities for
the creative photographer.

Because of the design of the HELIARS, special caution must be used.
Please observe the following:
1.  The nose you see in the viewfinder is yours.  It will not show up in
the photograph.  But trim your nose hairs, just in case.
2.  You need to shine your shoes before attempting any photographic
excursion.  Ladies wearing open-toe sandles (and men if so inclined) are
encouraged to freshen up the toenail polish.  When you show the results
from the Heliar to others, the first comment invariably will be:  "Are
those your feet?
3.  It is not advised to touch any portion of the front of the camera.
Hold the camera by the strap-lugs, or order our newly available suction
up grips for the back of the camera.  In a pinch, superglue will work
fine.  (Otherwise up to 70% of the frame will be of your fingers)
4.  For maximum effect, do not hold the camera parallel to your
subject.  Lean back when photographing tall buildings,  Lean forward
when  photographing things smaller than you.  This will invariably leave
the 'heliar footprint' on your work, much more distinctive than  Leica
thumbprints.
5.  Self Portraits - amazingly easy.  Try holding the camera at waste
level, aimed at your friends.  Now tilt your head forward to read the
lens engraving . . . click and . . .  presto, you are in the shot.
6.  Bokeh.  Since the depth of field is quite extensive, Bokeh must be
manually created.  Place the subject in the center of the photograph,
select a shutter speed of 1/2 second, and twist the camera upon its lens
axis during exposure, keeping the subject centered. .  We call this
special bokeh 'POWER bokeh, or pukeh for short.

Again, thank you for purchasing a Voeghtlander, Voitlahnder,
Voytleander  . . .we're not the real company, just using the name  . .
Let's just say Heliar.
Happy Pictures!