Bronica ETR
Posted 12-30-'02

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This camera manual library is for reference and historical purposes, all rights reserved.
This page is copyright© by , M. Butkus, NJ.
This page may not be sold or distributed without the expressed permission of the producer
I have no connection with any camera company

TO FIRST PART

 

14. DISTANCE SCALE AND DEPTH OF FIELD SCALE

A. Distance scales on the Bronica lenses for the ETR can be used for setting the focus on the required distance or finding the distance actually focused. Simply rotate the focusing ring and set the required distance opposite the green colored index, which will adjust the lens for the required distance.

 

B. There is an apparent zone of sharpness, both in front and back of the focused subject, which is known as the depth of field. The depth of field scale shows the zone of apparent sharpness at any lens opening or distance and can be utilized for quickly and simply ascertaining the depth of field. The depth of field scale is next to the distance scales and is made up of identical pairs of apertures on both sides of the green colored distance index. These identical pairs of apertures indicate the distance that will be in focus at these lens openings. For example, if the 75mm lens is focused at a distance of 1.5m, it can be seen from the depth of field scale that the zone will extend from about 1.2 to 2.1 meters (4 ft. to 7 ft.), when a lens opening of F22 is used.

 


15. INFRARED PHOTOGRAPHY

In infrared photography, some adjustment must be made in the focus in order to retain sharpness on the film because the invisible infrared Pays are longer in wave length than the visible rays used for focusing. For infrared photography--

1. Use a R filter or equivalent with an infrared (black-and white) film.

2. The red-colored line, next to the green-colored distance index, is the infrared index.

3. After focusing in the normal manner, re-set the distance indicated by the green-colored distance index to the infrared index, by shifting the distance ring.

4. Follow instructions enclosed with the infrared film and filter and, to be on the safe side, make several bracketing shots. In general, more exposure rather than less seems to be a safe guide.

A. The lens shutter of the Zenza Bronica ETR has a X-setting for flash synchronization, which means that electronic flash units will synchronize at all shutter speed settings, up to the fastest 1/500 second. Thus, it is very convenient for taking shots in daylight which require flash fill-in, too.
When using Class M and Class F flash bulbs, they will synchronize at the shutter speed settings indicated in the above table.

16. FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY
B. Always use flash cords with a standard PC type plug.



17. MULTIPLE EXPOSURES
A. To make multiple exposures rotate the film winding crank (to advance the film and cock the shutter) and then turn the multiple exposure lever in the clockwise or arrow-indicated direction. When set in this manner, the shutter can be released and cocked any number of times, without advancing the film.

B. Upon taking the multiple exposed picture, be sure to return the multiple exposure lever back to its vertical position, in order to prevent inadvertent additional multiple exposures.

18. ATTACHMENTS AND REMOVAL OF FILM BACKS

The camera body and film back are fully coupled at all times, upon connection. When film backs are interchanged, the shutter cannot be released if the shutter is not cocked or the film is not advanced or both.
Upon changing the film back, therefore, always turn the film winding crank completely one time. If the shutter is not cocked or the film is not advanced, the incomplete actions will take place when the film winding crank is rotated.

A. To remove the film back from the camera body, insert the dark slide into the dark slide slit, as illustrated, with the (3 mark on the dark slide at the top end. Push it all the way in.

B. Depress the film back release button and the lower end of the film back can be removed, as illustrated. Simply shift the film back up slightly and pull it away.

* The dark slide can be withdrawn, even while the film back is detached from the camera body and, therefore, extra care is required, in this respect.

 
C. To attach the film back to the camera body, simply insert the latches at the upper end of the film back into the attachment openings at the upper end of the camera body. Then, press the lower end of the film back against the body until it locks securely.

* The dark slide must be withdrawn from its slit, upon attachment of the film back to the body, as otherwise the shutter cannot be released. Furthermore, there is danger of the film back accidentally becoming detached from the body, should the dark slide be left in its slit while the camera is being carried. Therefore, make it a rule to withdraw the dark slide promptly upon attaching the film back to the body.

19. INTERCHANGING FINDERS AND MAGNIFIERS
A.  The waist-lever finder can be exchanged with other optional finders, to match shooting operations to photographic conditions.  To detach the finder, simply depress the finder release button, while, at the same time, sliding the finder backwards where it can be detached.
B. To attach the finder on the body, first, simply place protrusions on the bottom of the finder into corresponding openings in the finder frame and, then, slide the finder forward where it will lock.



C. The standard magnifier supplied with the waist-level finder has a power of--1.50 diopters, which can be exchanged for others with Powers of +1.50, +0.50, --0.50, -2.50, - 3.50 and --4.50 diopters. These optional accessories should be purchased to suit the user's eyesight, if necessary.
Simply rotate the magnifier frame in the counter-clockwise direction to unscrew.

Attach in the reverse manner.

20. INTERCHANGING FOCUSING SCREENS

A. The focusing screen can be exchanged, depending on the type of photographic work being undertaken.

First, remove the finder attached to the camera body. Then, move the screen removal lever in the arrow-indicated direction, as illustrated. Finally, lift it up by the lever.

B. To install the focusing screen, insert the protrusions at the forward end of the focusing screen frame into corresponding openings in the focusing screen frame of the body. Then, drop the rear end of focusing screen and slide the screen removal lever to the right.

C. The standard focusing screen has a split-image rangefinder spot, with the split oriented at 45° diagonal, which is surrounded by a microprism ring and, finally, a full-area matte screen plus fresnel lens.


A focusing screen with matte center plus full-area fresnel lens outside the center spot is also available.

21. FILM TYPE INDICATOR FRAME
Upon loading the film, tear off the end flap from the empty film package and insert it in the film type indicator frame. This will help you keep track of the film loaded in the film back and should prove useful when two or more film backs are used, with different types of films.


22. ATTACHING AND REMOVING THE NECK STRAP

A. Attaching the Strap

As illustrated, press the spring catch and, at the same time, move the black plastic fitting back towards the neck strap, which will expose an opening on the opposite side. Place the opening over the neck strap stud on the camera body and then pull strongly- on the strap, which will lock the fitting to the stud.

 

B. Detaching the Strap

Hold the neck strap, as illustrated, and depress the spring catch while, at the same time pushing the metal fitting forward, as far as it will go. Then, lift the fitting up from the stud.
C. The shoulder pad is supplied separately from the neck strap and should be used in the following manner. First, adjust the neck strap to a suitable length and then fix the shoulder pad on the inside of the neck strap, at the point where it will rub against the shoulder.


23. FACTS ABOUT THE BATTERY

6-volt silver oxide

The battery supplies power for the various electronic control mechanisms incorporated in the Zenza Bronica ETR. When used incorrectly, there is a possibility of the wrong exposure being set to the camera and/or the camera not operating.

Be sure to use and store the battery correctly for obtaining optimum performance from it at all times.

* Don't leave the battery in the battery chamber for a long time, without using it, as this could lead to leakage problems and result in poor contact. Battery with leakage or corrosion should be discarded immediately and the battery chamber should be cleaned out thoroughly, especially the contact terminals, before inserting a new battery. * Take the battery out of the battery chamber if the camera is to be stored away or if there are no plans to take pictures in the near future.

* Clean the contacts of the battery chamber and the battery with a soft cloth, before inserting a new battery. Don't use sandpaper or emery cloth. * Cold Weather Resistance Although the silver oxide battery used in the Zenza Bronica ETR has a very good cold weather temperature characteristic, there is still a tendency for performance to drop when the temperature falls below 0°C (or 32°F). Therefore, for outdoor photography in freezing weather, make it a rule to use a new battery and/or keep replacement batteries on hand. Furthermore, keep the battery or batteries (as well as the camera) under cover, next to the body, and load the battery just before beginning the session.

24. POINTERS ON SHOOTING WITH THE ZENZA BRONICA ETR

You will be able to use the Zenza Bronica ETR to your entire satisfaction and, thus, get better results from it, if you will take the trouble to thoroughly familiarize yourself with the operations of the camera and fully understand the extent of its superior specifications.

* Make full use of the interchangeable film back feature.

(1)Color and back-and-white shots can be taken alternately, as required, or daylight type color film and tungsten type color film can be used interchangeably.
(2) Shooting can go on continuously, with practically no interruption if sufficient preloaded spate film backs are always available.
(3) You don't have to waste unsuitable film left over from a previous session. Simply load up a new film back, with the required film, and go out shooting.
(4) A single ETR can be used by many persons in the same studio or at home, by simply having additional film backs on hand.

* The shutter cannot be cocked when film is not loaded in the film back. The use of the multiple exposure lever will, however, permit you to cock the shutter, in such instances. This feature is, of course, very convenient for familiarizing yourself with the camera and for testing the shutter in flash photography. (See "17. Multiple Exposures".)

*Battery power is not consumed when time exposures are made or when the ETR is used with the mechanically controlled 1/500 sec. setting.

* The voltage will drop when the camera is used for long shooting sessions in freezing weather. Insert a new battery or keep a spare on hand, for such occasions. Furthermore, keep such batteries in an inside pocket.

* The focusing screen is detachable, for exchanging with other types. Do not place trimming masks or tapes on the bottom surface of the screen, as this will lead to inaccurate focusing.

* See that the left hand does not touch the back cover released button, during photographic sessions, as the back cover may accidentally open and ruin the film.

* Restrict cleaning of the reflex mirror to lightly blowing or brushing away the dust and/or dirt with a blower brush or a soft camel hair brush. Don't touch the mirror surface with your fingers or cloth.

* Clean the plastic focusing screen in the same manner, as above. Don't touch the surface as you may leave fingerprints.

* Protect your camera from sudden temperature changes, as drastic changes can result in moisture condensation, frost, etc. inside the camera which could lead to rusting of metallic parts and eventual troubles.

* Protect your camera from impact and vibrations, as it is a precision optical instrument.

* Always protect the lens with its cover, when carrying the camera.

*When used outdoors in conditions of extreme moisture (fogs etc.,) or at the seashore, clean the camera and lens very carefully after the shooting session.

* Should the exterior of the camera be effected by salty air wipe it off carefully with a damp cloth, using fresh water. Then wipe it dry with a soft, dry cloth and, if necessary, send it to an authorized repair station for a quick inspection.

* If the camera is not being used for a long period, store it in a cool, dry and well-ventilated (but not windy) place.

* Wrap everything individually in dry and soft lint-free cotton cloth and store in tin-lined containers, which can be closed tightly, together with plenty of disiccant, such as silica gel. Don't use any other kind of chemical.

* When using a tripod screw which is longer than standard, do not thread too strongly or you may cause damage to the camera body.
* The lens cannot be attached or removed unless both camera body and lens are in the "cocked" condition. When the shutter is charged or cocked, both cocking pins of lens and body are set to the green colored dot. When the cocking pins are not at the position of the green dot, the cocking pin of the lens can be set to the position by simply moving it with the finger. The cocking pin of the body mount can be set to the required position by simply revolving the film winding crank.

* Don't throw the battery into a fire, or hit it strongly, as there is danger of explosion and, consequent, damage.

*Shooting with the AE (Automatic Exposure) Finder

When a film back with a different film speed (ASA number) is attached to the camera body, readjust the film speed dial of the AE Finder for the new film speed.


26. ACCESSORIES FOR INCREASING THE VERSATILITY OF THE ETR
* Through-the-lens automatic exposure operations, of the aperture-preferred type, are possible, when the exclusive AE Finder is attached to the Zenza Bronica ETR. Exposures are automatically controlled, upon focusing the subject, with brilliantly distinct images captured on the film.

* Attaching the exclusive Speed Gript to the ETR converts the camera for fast operations similar to a 35mm SLR, in both horizontal and vertical formats with film advanced and shutter cocked with speed-lever action and shutter button automatically connected.

The built-in hot shoe also permits use of a cordless electronic flash unit.

 

* The Rotary Viewfinder on the ETR makes reflex view-focusing very easy, as the eyepiece end can be rotated 90° in two directions for use in both horizontal and vertical formats. Camera operations are greatly speeded up because a bright erect image, moving in the same direction as the lens, is observed for composing and focusing.


Zenzanon E 40mm F4 
Lens construction: 9 elements 7 groups Angle of view: 82°30'
  F/numbers: 4 to 22 
Diaphragm: Fully automatic 
Minimum focus: 40cm (1.3 ft.)
Electronic leaf shutter: Seiko #O 
Shutter speeds: 8 sec. to 1/500 sec. plus T (time exposure) 
Filter size: 62mm screw-in type 
Length: 62mm 
Weight: 478 grams (1.04 lbs.) Equivalent 35mm focal length: 25mm
Zenzanon E 50mm F2.8 
Lens construction: 8 elements 7 groups Angle of view: 70° 
F/numbers: 2.8 to 22 
Diaphragm: Fully automatic 
Minimum focus: 50cm (1.6 ft.) Electronic leaf shutter: Seiko #0
Shutter speeds: 8 sec. to 1/500 sec. plus T (time exposure
Filter size: 62mm screw-in type. 
Length: 62.5mm 
Weight: 464grams(1.01 lbs.) 
Equivalent 35mm focal length: 30mm
Zenzanon E 75mm F2.8 
Lens construction: 5 elements 4 groups Angle of view: 50° 
F/numbers: 2.8 to 22 
Diaphragm: Ful ly automatic 
Minimum focus: 60cm (2 ft.) 
Electronic leaf shutter: Seiko #O 
Shutter speeds: 8 sec. to 1/500 sec. plus T (time exposure) 
Filter size: 58mm screw-in type 
Length: 54.3mm 
Weight: 417 grams (1.2 lbs.) 
Equivalent 35mm focal length: 46mm


Zenzanon E 150mm F4 Lens construction: 6 elements 6 groups 
Angle of view: 26°30' 
F/numbers: 4 to 22 
Diaphragm: Fully automatic 
Minimum focus: 1.5m (4.9 ft.) 
Electronic leaf shutter: Seiko #o 
Shutter speeds: 8 sec. to 1/500 sec. plus T (time exposure) Filter size: 62mm screw-in type 
Length: 86mm 
Weight: 605 grams (1.3 lbs.) 
Equivalent 35mm focal length: 90mm
Zenzanon E 250mm F5.6 
Lens construction: 6 elements 6 groups 
Angle of view: 16° 
F/numbers: 5.6 to 22 
Diaphragm: Fully automatic 
Minimum focus: 3.5m (11.5 ft.) 
Electronic leaf shutter: Seiko #o 
Shutter speeds: 8 sec. to 1/500 see plus T (time exposure) Filter size: 62mm screw-in type 
Length: 148mm 
Weight: grams 
Equivalent 35mm focal length: 150mm



CLICK HERE FOR DEPTH OF FIELD TABLES

 

ACCESSORIES FORTHE ZENZA BRONICA ETR


TO FIRST PART