Moviflex G S8 Electronic Movie Camera

Introduction

Welcome to the Moviflex G S8 Electronic movie camera. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for handling and operating your camera to ensure optimal performance. Familiarize yourself with the controls and functions before inserting film. For further assistance, contact your photographic dealer or the Photographic Advisory Service of ZEISS IKON VOIGTLANDER.

Camera Controls

Refer to the provided diagrams for the location of the following controls:

• Adjustable viewfinder eyepiece (1)
• Fixing ring (2)
• Camera door (3)
• Indicator window (loading control) (4)
• Marking of the film plane (5)
• Camera door locking mechanism (6)
• Lever for powered adjustment (zooming) of the focal length (7)
• Milled ring for manual adjustment of the focal length (8)
• Zooming lever for manual adjustment of the focal length (9)
• Footage counter (10)
• Grip with removable cover (11)
• Screw for loosening the grip cover (12)
• Lever for locking the release (13)
• Release (14)
• Red dot for attaching zooming lever for left-handers
• Red dot for attaching zooming lever for right-handers
• Battery testing key (16)
• Control lamp (17)
• Tripod socket (18)
• Screw for fixing accessories (e.g., angle mirror attachment with effects box) (19)
• Cable release connection for motion pictures (20)
• Cable release connection for single-frame pictures (21)
• Aperture indication and aperture setting (22)
• Aperture setting mark and reading index (23)
• Setting for number of frames per second (24)
• Setting mark (25)
• Focal length scale (26)
• High-speed button (27)
• Key for automatic aperture reversing (28)
• Eyelet for fastening the wrist strap and also the carrying strap (29)
• Milled ring for distance setting (30)
• Setting mark for distance and focal length (31)
• Distance scale in metres and feet (32)
• Slot for socket wrench for changeover to artificial light or attachment of additional light source with matching plug connection (Movilum) (33)

Preparations for Shooting

1. Inserting the Batteries: Loosen screw (12) with the supplied socket wrench or a coin, remove grip cover (11). Insert six 1.5V Penlight cells (e.g., Pertrix 244 or Mallory 1500) as indicated, ensuring correct pole orientation. Reattach the cover.
2. Testing the Batteries: Ensure the lens is darkened. Press the battery testing key (16). The control lamp (17) should light up green. If not, replace batteries or check insertion.
3. Adjusting the Viewfinder Eyepiece: For normal eyesight, the eyepiece is pre-adjusted. If you wear spectacles, you can look through the viewfinder with them folded back without adjustment. To adjust for sharper focus on the fine focusing screen: fold back the eyecup, unscrew fixing ring (2), look through the viewfinder, and screw eyepiece (1) in or out until the screen is sharp (adjustment range ±5 dptrs). Secure with ring (2). Turn the eyecup clockwise for the correct viewing position. Spectacle wearers should use the eyecup folded back.

Changing the Focal Length

Focal length adjustment is used for selecting the correct viewing image and for zooming during shooting. Both powered and manual adjustments are possible.

• Powered Adjustment: Operates when release (14) is pulled back to the first stop. If the release is locked, move lever (13) to the right. Start zooming by moving lever (7) up and down. The set focal length is visible on scale (26).
• Manual Adjustment: Independent of electronic functions. Use milled ring (8) or the supplied zooming lever (9). The lever can be clamped onto ring (8). Align red dots on the lever and scale (26) for left or right-hand operation.

Note: When using focal lengths longer than 30mm, mount the camera on a tripod and use a cable release to prevent blurred images. Be mindful of the change in depth-of-field.

Snap-shot Setting: For effortless focusing, set focal length to 6mm and distance ring (30) to 2m. With an open aperture (f/2.8), subjects from 85cm to infinity will be sharp.

Setting the Distance

Set the lens to the longest focal length (f=60mm). Turn milled ring (30) until the subject appears sharp in the viewfinder's fine-focusing screen. For accurate measurement, perform this at the longest focal length (f=36mm). The measured distance is read from scale (32) at setting mark (31). Focusing is maintained across the focal length range (6-60mm) if the camera position remains constant.

Setting the Number of Frames Per Second

The standard frame frequency is 18 frames per second (fps). For filming from moving objects or sports events, set the changeover switch (24) to 24 fps by turning disc (25) to setting mark (26). For slow-motion effects, see section 13 (54 fps).

Inserting the Film

The Moviflex G S8 accepts Super 8 film cartridges with speeds from 11 to 25 DIN (13-25 DIN for artificial light film, 11-23 DIN for daylight film).

1. Lift locking bar (6) and turn right until it stops.
2. Open camera door (3).
3. Insert the cartridge with the visible film facing the lens until it clicks into place.
4. Close locking bar (6) with slight pressure on the housing door.

Indicator window (4) shows the loaded film type. Footage counter (10) displays remaining film in meters and feet and resets automatically when the cartridge is removed.

Shooting

The camera is ready for shooting once the cartridge is inserted. An electronic system automatically registers film speed and signals the type of film (daylight/artificial light) to the exposure control.

Releasing and Aperture Setting

Release (14) has a pressure point for powered aperture setting, zooming, and fading. Avoid jerky operation by using the pressure point. The aperture automatically adjusts to lighting changes. Through-the-lens metering ensures correct exposure. A yellow warning light in the viewfinder indicates the exposure control range has been exceeded; discontinue filming in such cases. Lever (13) locks the release against accidental operation when pushed fully left. See section 17 for self-timer shooting.

End of Film

A red light in the viewfinder, indicated on the footage counter (10), and an acoustic signal denote the end of the film. Unload the cartridge and send it for processing.

Sophisticated Shooting

Aperture Adjustment and Correction

You can manually set the desired f-stop by turning disc (23) to setting mark (24). Hold the disc in place during shooting; releasing your finger allows the automatic system to take over. This is useful for correcting automatic aperture settings.

Fade-out and Fade-in Effects

Use key (28) for powered fade-out and fade-in effects. Pressing key (28) towards the end of a setting closes the diaphragm, darkening the scene. The yellow light indicates the diaphragm is closed (aperture f/64). Release key (28). When starting the next scene (pulling release (14)), the diaphragm automatically returns to the correct aperture. To ensure the diaphragm doesn't open prematurely, press and slowly release button (29) as the film starts to run. Holding key (29) keeps the diaphragm closed. For long darkened sequences in bright light, use a neutral-grey filter. The length of fading is visible in aperture indication (23).

Aperture Correction: For low-contrast subjects, overcast skies, or snow scenes, opening the aperture by one f-stop from the automatic setting is advisable (refer to film manufacturer's instructions). Adjust disc (23) accordingly and hold it. For scenes where the subject's brightness differs significantly from the background (e.g., archways, indoor shots, dark objects against bright backgrounds), manual aperture control is recommended. Approach the subject closely (using focal length adjustment) so only its light is measured. Then, shoot from the original position without changing the automatically determined value (hold disc (23) or use a cable release).

Slow Motion

The Moviflex G S8 has a built-in slow-motion gear operating at 54 fps (triple slow-motion effect).

• Operate high-speed button (27) to switch from standard speed (18 or 24 fps) to slow motion. The electronic exposure automatic adjusts synchronously. The aperture opens by approximately 1½ stops due to the shorter exposure time.
• To avoid overtaxing the automatic aperture control during slow-motion (yellow light), ensure the aperture is not below f/5.6 during standard running.

Example - Pole Vaulting:

1. Film the run-up at 18 fps.
2. At the jump, quickly depress the high-speed button (27) to cover the jump in slow motion.
3. Release the high-speed button to cover the descent at standard frequency.

An electronic control ensures smooth transitions between standard and slow motion without jerks. Slow motion enhances film substance, especially for sports events. Sensible use of the high-speed button helps manage film consumption.

54 Frames Per Second "Pre-programmed": To pre-program the camera to 54 fps, fully depress high-speed button (27) and pull out lever A. The camera will immediately run at 54 fps when the release button (14) is operated.

Aperture and Depth of Field

Every lens has a limited area of sharp focus in front of and behind the set distance.

• Small aperture (e.g., f/64): Great depth of field.
• Large aperture (e.g., f/2.8): Small depth of field.

Refer to the enclosed tables for exact data.

Filming with Filters

Filters for the Moviflex have a 56mm bayonet mount and are compatible with the CONTAREX camera. Through-the-lens metering automatically compensates for the filter factor, eliminating the need for exposure correction.

Filming with Artificial Light

If your subject is illuminated by artificial light (e.g., in a theatre), insert the supplied socket wrench into slot (33) until it clicks. This adjusts the automatic exposure control for correct brightness and color exposure. The same applies when using commercial lighting equipment. If using a lighting unit with a standard socket base (e.g., ZEISS IKON-VOIGTLANDER MOVILUM), insert it into slot (33) for the same changeover effect. The socket wrench can be stored in the wrist strap ring when not in use.

Caution: When shooting with lamps not connected via the socket base, keep lamps at an adequate distance from the camera to prevent heat damage.

Shooting with Cable Release

This is typically used for tripod filming or title shots. It allows free selection of the f-stop without the automatic system, though automatic aperture control is also possible.

• With Automatic Aperture Control: Set release (14) at the pressure point and move lever (13) fully left to lock it. Screw the cable release into socket (21). Self-timer shooting is only possible with a cable release equipped for fixed pressure. When release key (14) is used again, it automatically pushes lever (13) out of the locked position.

Single-Frame Filming

This requires a cable release and operates without the automatic aperture control system. The release key must not be locked at the release dot position. Connect the cable release to socket (22) marked with a red ring. The exposure time for a single frame is always 1/36 second.

Battery Check: Before taking single-frame shots, press the cable release briefly and operate the battery checking button (16) simultaneously. A green light indicates adequate battery power; otherwise, replace batteries. Repeat this check at intervals during extended single-frame shooting.

Motorized Aperture Setting: Single-frame shots with motorized aperture setting are possible if the release is pushed before or between shots to the release dot. The aperture will be set automatically according to lighting conditions. Press the cable release briefly when taking shots. Even with longer pressure, only one frame is exposed, though the motor will continue to run.

Close-ups

For distances closer than the standard setting allows, attach supplementary lenses (f=1m, f=0.5m, f=0.35m, f=0.2m) in front of the ZEISS VARIO SONNAR lens. Shooting distances are detailed in the tables. Focusing is done with the built-in rangefinder. The values refer to the film plane marked as control (5). The automatic exposure system is reliable for close-ups.

Owners of CONTAREX cameras can attach PLANAR 1:1.5/55mm or SONNAR 1:2/85mm lenses using an adapter ring (35.0214) for close-ups. With a 60mm lens setting, a shooting scale up to 1:1 is achieved, equivalent to a subject size of 4x5mm.

Connection of Additional Equipment

Use screw (19) to attach additional equipment like the ZEISS IKON-VOIGTLANDER angle mirror attachment with effects box. This allows for right-angle filming, useful for candid or keyhole shots.

Care of the Camera

• Periodically clean the film guiding device by opening door (3) and using a soft brush on the film track. Remove solid film residue with a wooden pin.
• Clean the lens surface with a soft linen cloth, removing dust particles with a soft brush first.
• Occasionally clean battery connections in the grip and battery terminals.
• If the camera is stored for an extended period, remove batteries and store them separately in a cool, dry place. Always remove discharged batteries immediately.

Series Number

Each MOVIFLEX has a series number engraved on the underside of the housing door. Note this number and the lens number for ownership proof in case of loss.

World-Wide Guarantee

ZEISS IKON VOIGTLANDER offers a worldwide guarantee. A guarantee booklet is supplied with each camera. Your photographic dealer must confirm the date of purchase. Keep this booklet safe, as it contains a list of repair agents worldwide.

Accessories

A range of accessories is available for the Moviflex G S8, including:

• Cases
• Lens hoods
• Supplementary lenses (for close-ups)
• Colour filters (yellow, green, orange, red, UV, Skylight, neutral)
• Polarization filter
• Carrying strap
• Cable release
• Angle mirror attachment with effects box
• MOVILUM lighting equipment
• Adapter rings for CONTAREX lenses
• MOVILUX D S 8 movie projector

Subject to alteration in line with technical progress.

Technical Dictionary

• ASA: Film speed rating (American standards).
• Bayonet mount: Mechanism for attaching lenses, filters, and lens hoods with a 90-degree rotation.
• Automatic aperture control: Exposure meter automatically controls the aperture based on light conditions.
• Frame frequency: Number of frames exposed per second during filming or projection.
• Aperture: Variable opening in the lens affecting exposure and depth of field.
• Focal length (f = ): Lens characteristic determining image size and field of coverage. Shorter focal lengths offer wider coverage; longer focal lengths provide larger subject reproduction.
• Exposure time (shutter speed): Duration light acts on the film.
• DIN number: Film speed rating (German standards). Higher DIN numbers indicate faster film speeds.
• Distance: Distance from the film plane to the subject.
• Film plane: The plane where the light-sensitive layer of the film is located.
• Filter: Colored glass that absorbs certain colors, affecting exposure and color rendition.
• Through-the-lens metering: Exposure measurement taken through the lens.
• Polarisation filter: Neutral grey filter that reduces reflections by admitting light vibrating in only one direction.