1. Overview
The Leica 28mm f/5.6 Summaron-M Lens is a compact wide-angle lens designed for Leica M-mount cameras. It features an optical design reminiscent of the original Summaron 28mm f/5.6 lens, offering a unique imaging signature. Its small size makes it suitable for street photography and discreet use.
Key Features
- Optical design similar to the original Summaron 28mm f/5.6 lens.
- Most compact M-Lens, with an overall length of approximately 3/4" (less than 2cm), ideal for unobtrusive street photography.
- Provides an unmistakable imaging signature that cannot be reproduced by digital means.
- Combines large depth of field, natural contrast, excellent rendition of details, and visible vignetting for a unique, analog-like character.
- Features a clearly laid out depth of field scale and long focus throw for precise and easy zone focusing.
Figure 1.1: Front view of the Leica 28mm f/5.6 Summaron-M Lens, highlighting its compact design.
Figure 1.2: Optical diagram of the Summaron 2,8 cm 1:5,6 lens, illustrating its internal lens elements.
2. Setup
Attaching the Lens
- Ensure your camera is turned off.
- Remove the rear lens cap from the Summaron-M lens and the body cap from your Leica M camera.
- Align the red dot on the lens mount with the red dot on your camera's lens mount.
- Insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks securely into place. Do not force the lens.
- Replace the front lens cap when the lens is not in use.
Removing the Lens
- Ensure your camera is turned off.
- Press and hold the lens release button on your camera body.
- Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it detaches from the camera body.
- Immediately attach the rear lens cap to the lens and the body cap to the camera to protect against dust and damage.
Figure 2.1: Rear view of the lens, showing the Leica M-mount for attachment to compatible cameras.
3. Operating the Lens
Focusing
The Leica 28mm f/5.6 Summaron-M Lens features manual focus. Rotate the focus ring to adjust the focus distance. The lens includes a focus tab for tactile and quick adjustments. The focus scale is marked in both meters and feet.
Aperture Control
The aperture ring allows you to select the desired f-stop, ranging from f/5.6 to f/22. Rotate the aperture ring to set the desired depth of field and exposure. A smaller f-number (e.g., f/5.6) results in a shallower depth of field, while a larger f-number (e.g., f/22) provides a greater depth of field.
Depth of Field Scale
The lens is equipped with a depth of field scale. This scale indicates the range of distances that will appear acceptably sharp at a given aperture setting. Utilize this scale for zone focusing, especially beneficial for street photography where quick focusing is essential.
Figure 3.1: Top-down view of the lens, displaying the aperture and focus distance scales for manual control.
Figure 3.2: Side view of the lens, illustrating the depth of field markings and focus tab for precise adjustments.
4. Maintenance and Care
Cleaning the Lens
- Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces.
- For stubborn smudges, apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
- Gently wipe the lens surface in a circular motion from the center outwards.
- Use a blower brush to remove dust particles before wiping to prevent scratching.
Storage
- Always store the lens with both front and rear caps attached.
- Keep the lens in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- If storing for extended periods, consider using a dehumidifying agent to prevent mold growth.
5. Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
- Lens not attaching securely: Ensure the red alignment dots on the lens and camera body are correctly matched and the lens is rotated until it clicks. Check for any obstructions on the mount.
- Dust on lens elements: Use a blower brush to remove loose dust. For persistent dust or smudges, refer to the cleaning instructions in Section 4.
- Unsharp images: Verify that the lens is correctly focused for your subject distance. Check your camera's shutter speed and aperture settings to ensure they are appropriate for the lighting conditions and desired depth of field.
- Difficulty rotating focus/aperture rings: Ensure no foreign objects are obstructing the rings. If the issue persists, do not force it and contact Leica customer support.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Leica |
| Model Number | 11695 |
| Focal Length | 28 mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/5.6 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 |
| Lens Type | Wide Angle |
| Compatible Mountings | Leica M |
| Product Dimensions | 5 x 4 x 4 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.3 pounds |
| Date First Available | February 23, 2017 |
7. Warranty Information
Leica products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For detailed information regarding the warranty period and terms for your Leica 28mm f/5.6 Summaron-M Lens, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Leica website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
8. Support
Should you require technical assistance, service, or have any questions regarding your Leica 28mm f/5.6 Summaron-M Lens, please contact Leica customer support. You can find contact information and additional resources on the official Leica website or through authorized Leica dealers.
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