Re: [Leica] HELIAR User's Guide.

[D Khong <dkhong@pacific.net.sg>]

Kevin H wrote:
>     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!

Should I take your post seriously or has Cosina turned the corner?

Dan K.