Leica V-LUX 30 14.1 MP Digital Camera Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Leica V-LUX 30 digital camera. The Leica V-LUX 30 is a compact digital camera featuring a 14.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, a 16x Leica DC Vario-Elmar optical zoom lens, and a 3-inch LCD touchscreen. It offers numerous automatic features and manual setting options, along with integrated GPS functionality and 1080i-AVCHD Full HD video recording.

Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your camera and retain it for future reference.

Product Overview

Key Features

• 14.1-megapixel resolution: Equipped with a 1/2.33-inch CMOS sensor for high-quality images.
• 16x Optical Zoom Lens: Features a Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3 - 68.8mm f/3.3-5.9 ASPH lens.
• Full HD Video Recording: Records video in 1080i-AVCHD Full HD format, utilizing the full 16x zoom range and an integrated stereo microphone.
• Integrated GPS: Automatically records geographical coordinates and local time in image Exif data.
• 3-inch LCD Touch Screen: Provides intuitive control and clear image display with 460,000 pixels resolution.
• New 3D Mode: Allows creation of fascinating 3D images by combining two shots into a stereo image pair (MPO format).
• Fast Continuous Shooting: Captures sequences at 10 frames per second at full resolution or 60 frames per second at reduced resolution.

Camera Components

Figure 1: Front view of the Leica V-LUX 30 digital camera. This image displays the camera's lens, flash, and the Leica branding on the front panel.

Figure 2: The Leica V-LUX 30 digital camera shown alongside its dedicated brown leather carrying case and wrist strap.

Figure 3: The Leica V-LUX 30 digital camera partially inserted into its brown leather carrying case, illustrating how the camera fits securely.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

1. Open the battery compartment cover located on the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert the Lithium-Ion battery (Type: Lithium Ion, Weight: 22 Grams) with the correct orientation, ensuring the contacts align.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely until it clicks into place.
4. Charge the battery fully before first use.

2. Memory Card Insertion

1. Open the memory card slot cover, usually adjacent to the battery compartment.
2. Insert an SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card (Flash Memory Type: SD/SDHC/SDXC) into the slot until it locks. Ensure the card is oriented correctly.
3. Close the memory card slot cover.
4. Note: The camera also has internal memory.

3. Initial Power On and Basic Settings

1. Press the power button to turn on the camera.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to set the date, time, and language.
3. Format the memory card before first use to ensure optimal performance. This can typically be found in the camera's menu settings.

Operating the Camera

1. Basic Photography

• Power On/Off: Press the ON/OFF button.
• Taking Photos:
  1. Select a shooting mode (e.g., Automatic, Program, Aperture Priority) using the mode dial or touch screen.
  2. Frame your shot using the 3-inch LCD screen.
  3. Press the shutter button halfway down to focus. The camera uses Contrast Detection autofocus with 11 autofocus points.
  4. Press the shutter button fully to capture the image.
• Zoom Operation: Use the zoom lever around the shutter button to adjust the 16x optical zoom lens. The digital zoom (up to 4x) can also be engaged.

2. Video Recording

• To start recording, press the dedicated video record button.
• The camera records in 1080i-AVCHD Full HD format.
• The 16x optical zoom is available during video recording.
• An integrated stereo microphone captures audio, with an electronic wind noise filter for clear sound.
• Press the video record button again to stop recording.

3. Shooting Modes

The Leica V-LUX 30 offers various shooting modes to suit different photographic situations:

• Automatic: Camera automatically selects optimal settings.
• Manual: Full control over aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
• Program (P): Camera sets aperture and shutter speed, user controls other settings.
• Aperture Priority (Av or A): User sets aperture, camera sets shutter speed.
• Shutter Priority (Tv or S): User sets shutter speed, camera sets aperture.
• Scene Modes: Includes Landscape, Portrait, Macro, Sports, Movie, Panorama.
• 3D Mode: Captures two images to create a 3D MPO file.

4. Touch Screen Operation

The 3-inch LCD touch screen allows for intuitive control:

• Tap to select menu options.
• Touch to set focus point in Live View.
• Swipe to review images in playback mode.

5. GPS Functionality

The integrated GPS function automatically records the geographical coordinates and local time for each photograph, saving this data in the Exif information of the image files. This allows for geotagging of your photos.

Note: GPS tagging may not function in certain regions, such as the People’s Republic of China and neighboring areas, due to satellite signal reception limitations.

6. Image Playback

Press the playback button to review captured photos and videos. Use the touch screen or directional buttons to navigate through your media.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning the Camera

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body.
• For the lens, use a lens brush or a specialized lens cleaning cloth and solution. Avoid touching the lens surface directly with fingers.
• Do not use organic solvents or strong cleaning agents.

2. Battery Care

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Avoid exposing batteries to extreme temperatures.
• Recharge batteries regularly, even if not fully depleted, to maintain battery health.

3. Storage

• When storing the camera for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card.
• Store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment, preferably in a camera bag or case.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Leica V-LUX 30 camera. For more detailed troubleshooting, please refer to the official Leica support resources.

Camera Does Not Power On

• Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Check if the battery contacts are clean.
• Try using a different, fully charged battery if available.

Images Are Blurry

• Ensure the lens is clean and free from smudges.
• Check that the camera has successfully focused before taking the shot (half-press the shutter button).
• In low light, use a higher ISO setting or a tripod to prevent camera shake.
• Verify that the image stabilization feature is active.

Memory Card Error

• Reinsert the memory card.
• Try formatting the memory card (Note: This will erase all data on the card).
• Test with a different, compatible memory card.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Warranty Information

Leica products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For specific warranty terms and conditions applicable to your Leica V-LUX 30, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Leica website. Retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or inquiries regarding your Leica V-LUX 30, please contact Leica customer support. Contact details can typically be found on the official Leica website or in the documentation provided with your camera.