Mamiya ZE-X
Second Section
| Back to first section | Back to second section |
|
The center-weighted exposure metering system of the ZE-X will give you the best possible exposures with each of the camera's AE modes in most of all shooting situations. However, when the subject is situated against a bright light source such as snow, against a window in the shade of a backlit tree, or when the subject is spotlighted on stage against a dark background, some exposure increase or decrease may be required to bring out the details of the subject. The exposure compensation may be accomplished by either of two methods-the exposure variation dial or exposure memory button. |
For exposures where exposure variation is being employed, a "V" appears in the viewfinder to inform you that compensation is in effect for the shot at hand. Be sure to set the dial back to
"O" when exposure variation is not longer needed to avoid exposure failures.
Use of the exposure variation dial is the most effective method of exposure compensation when you cannot approach your subject closely, such as a person standing against the snow
across the river or spotlighted on stage, etc.
The dial surrounds the film rewind knob permits up to +3EV (3 f/stops) variation. The dial normally locks at the "O" setting for standard exposures. When compensation is required it may be
set for exposure increase at +1 +2 +3 or exposure decrease at -1 -2 -3 by pressing the lock button (D) and rotating to the desired setting. In-between settings may also be used. The amount
of increase or decrease required depends mainly on experience; in the beginning, its a good idea to take same photo at two or three settings to be on the safe side.4www.butkus.org
Exposure increase (for backlit subject):
When the subject is situated against a bright background, exposure must be increased to compensate. Press the dial lock release button (D) and set the dial to +1 or +2 as required (in
extreme cases, the +3 setting may also be used).
Exposure decrease (for frontlit subjects):
When your subject is spotlighted against a dark background such as on stage, best results are obtained by decreasing the exposure. Press the dial lock release button (D) and set the dial
to the appropriate -1 or-2 setting (in extreme cases -3 may also be used).
Exposure Compensation with dedicated flash units:
In addition to the standard AE modes, exposure compensation may also be employed for flash photography with the Mamiyalite MZ 36R and MZ 18R dedicated flash units.
Besides the exposure variation dial, there's also another method of insuring compensate exposures with the exposure memory button. This method permits you to make a direct light
reading without guesswork. The exposure memory button may be used to compensate exposures with any AE mode.
Direct reading of the subject:
Walk up directly to your subject and make an exposure reading of the subject or part of the subject you wish to emphasize by pressing the shutter button partway. Next, without leaving go of
the shutter button, press the exposure memory button to lock the exposure reading on your subject. Keeping the shutter button depressed partway (you may leave go of She exposure
memory button) walk back to the spot where you wish to take the photo, focus and press the shutter button the rest of the way to take the photo.4www.butkus.org
The manual exposure mode of the ZE-X permits free selection of both aperture and shutter speed to give you full command of the camera when required for special effects and creative
photography. Manual exposures with the ZE-X are non-metered. Set both the aperture ring and shutter speed dial to the desired aperture and shutter speed settings. Make sure the
exposure variation dial is set to "O" (this doesn't function for manual operation).
While the camera controls are set for manual, an "M" will appear inside the viewfinder to inform you; no other indications are given.
When the shutter speed dial is set at "B" the shutter will remain open as long as the shutter button is depressed. The aperture must be set manually. An "M" will appear in the viewfinder
when you press the shutter button partway.
B (Bulb) for Long Exposures
 |
 |
· The use of an optional cable release adapter, lockable cable release and sturdy tripod are recommended to prevent camera shake.
· Also, since long exposures present a real drain on the batteries, we recommend to use fairly new batteries.
· The self-timer doesn't operate for "B" setting.
· If the aperture ring is set at the white button (auto) with the shutter dial set at "B" the shutter does not release; the "M" indication flashes in the viewfinder to warn you to reset the aperture.
When you wish to take family or group photos or snapshots of places you have been and include yourself in the picture, you can mount the camera on a tripod and use the self-timer. It is
also useful for close-up and copy works.
Self-Timer
The self-timer has 2, 6 and 10 second settings. During self-timer operation the timer LED flashes and the camera sounds an audible warning; at the end of 2 seconds, the speed of the
warning indicators increases to let you know the shutter is about to release.
1. Set the selector lever (E) to the desired interval setting (this may be performed either before or after film advance).
2. Focus and close the eyepiece blind to keep out stray light.
3. Press the shutter button. The shutter will release at the end of the preset interval. Should you change your mind, you may cancel timer operation by setting the switch back to its original
position before the shutter releases.
· When use of the self-timer is no longer desired always reset the selector lever back to its original position or your next shot will also be on time release.4www.butkus.org
· The "B" setting of the shutter speed dial cannot be used for self-timer operation.
The eyepiece blind is a handy device that keeps stray light from entering the camera from the rear and adversely affecting exposures made without your eye to the viewfinder, such as
exposure with the self-timer, close-ups and copy work or night photography.
To close the blind:
Slide the lever all the way to the right until the blind completely covers the eyepiece.
Multiple
Exposures
Multiple exposures are easily made with the ZE-X because the handy multiple exposure lever automatically disengages the film advance system and also the exposure counter to keep
accurate exposure count.
1. Make the first exposure in the normal manner.
2. Slide the multiple exposure lever all the way to the right and hold. Cock the shutter by winding the film advance lever all the way.
3. Release the shutter for your second exposure on the same frame.
For additional exposures on the same frame, repeat steps two and three above.
Exposure Tips:
With multiple exposures best results are obtained. if you photograph a dark subject first and superimpose lighter ones over it. Except for night scenes and fireworks,
exposure compensation may be required depending on the brightness of your subject and the number of exposures being made as follows.
Caution:
Although the multiple exposure system is designed to permit an unlimited number of exposures on the same frame there may be occasions when the film will slip slightly due to
film slack.
Average amount of compensation required
| Number of exposures on same frame | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Effective compensation setting | -1 | -1 1/3 -1 2/3 | -2 |
When the camera is focused on a subject a certain area in front of and behind the subject is also in focus; this is called the depth-of-field. Depth-of-field varies in relation to the aperture in
use; it increases as the aperture ring is stopped down to smaller apertures, and decreases as the lens is opened up to larger apertures.
To render the background in sharp focus or for snapshots and candid photos where there isn't time for pin-point focus, stop the lens down to a small aperture, so the greater depth-of-field
will give you greater overall focus for the picture area. To stand out your subject against its surroundings, open the lens up to a larger aperture, so the shallow depth-of-field will throw the
back-ground out of focus.
The depth-of-field range can be determined using the depth-of-field scale for the lens in use. First, select the desired aperture, then look at the corresponding figures on the depth-of-field
scale on both sides of the central index dot. This is the extent of the depth-of-field that will be obtained with the aperture you are using. For example, if the camera is focused at 15ft (5m) at
an aperture of f/11, the range of sharp focus will be approximately from 10ft (3m) to Soft (10m).
Infrared
Photography
The red dot (or red line) to the right of the central index dot of the lens is the infrared mark. This mark is provided because focusing characteristics of the lens differ from ordinary films
when using black and white infrared film. Compensation is required as explained below.
1. After focusing the lens in the normal manner, read the distance indicated by the central index dot. Then, move the distance indicated so that it aligns with the infrared mark.
2. Attach a red filter over the lens, and set the exposure manually as indicated by the film instructions for infrared photography.
· Focusing compensation is required only for black and white infrared films, not for color. Read the film instructions carefully for proper use of the filter.
Mamiya-Sekor EF/E Lenses -
Click here to see the types and abilities of the EF/E lenses available.
<<<< Additional information not in the
manual:
I just wanted to point out that not all Mamiya M42 lenses are safe to use with
the P adapter for the Auto-XTL. If you attempt to use the SX type lenses with
the Auto-XTL P adapter, the aperture sensing pin will dig into the P adapter
face since it is not perfectly flush with the outer surface edge of the SX lense.
Furthermore, since the entire moving surface of the aperture ring of the SX
lense comes to rest against the P adapter face, it will lock down the aperture
control of the lense and make it impossible to turn, therefore preventing SX
lens f-stop manipulation. Mamiya M42 AUTO lenses seem to be safe choices as
are M42 Yashica-Yashinon, M42 Meyer-Optik and M42 Zeiss MC Sonnar (S) lenses.
Any aperture ring that rotates at the extremity of a lens should be avoided. Of
course the SX lens works perfectly well with the "ZE" P adapter for
Mamiya ZE series lenses which it was designed for. Lenses with Auto and
Manual switches like Zeiss MC Sonnar work well with the Auto-XTL P adapter in
conjunction with its Auto Aperture pin. Lenses that have no Auto Aperture and
only manual control of aperture appear to work equally well like Meyer-Optik
Orestor M42.
Robert A. Genna, Connecticut teacher and photographer >>>>>>
System accessories ZE-X
Mamiyalite MZ 36R
 |
This grip-type automatic electronic flash unit takes full
advantage of the ZE-X's crossover mode feature and sophisticated
electronic aperture control systems for flash photos with unprecedented
ease and accuracy. The MZ 36R has a guide number of 36 (ASA 100 in meters)
which is reduced to 28 when the wide angle diffuser is used. The head of unit can be swung upward 90 and rotated almost one full turn, besides, the flash sensor is removable and may be attached directly to the camera hotshoe to permit bounce flash operation on auto. Used with the ZE-X, it automatically synchronizes for flash at 1/60 second on charging and used with EF lenses automatically selects the aperture to obtain proper exposure in relation to film speed and focusing distance. 4www.butkus.org |
As the aperture may also be set manually and the flash sensor automatically controls flash intensity according
to the light reflected from the subject, it may also be used with other cameras, including large-format cameras. In addition, you can select one of five different flash intensity for your purpose,
so it is highly convenient for close-up work and daylight synchro flash. Other convenient features include a built-in shutter release button on the flash unit, plus electronic remote control and
slave units for maximum convenience in remote or multiple flash photography using more than one flash unit.
Angle of coverage: 45 vertical, 60 horizontal (coverage down to a 28mm wide-angle lens for 35mm cameras with wide-angle diffuser attached).
Power Source: Eight AA-size alkaline or
rechargeable Ni-Cad batteries.
Mamiyalite MZ 18R
 |
This clip-on type automatic electronic flash is highly portable and takes full advantage of the
ZE-X's crossover mode feature and electronic aperture control to offer flash photos with the
same ease and accuracy of the MZ 36R. The unit features a guide number of 18
(ASA 100 in meters) which is reduced to GN13 with the wide-angle diffuser attached. When used with the
ZE-X, the unit automatically synchronizes for flash at 1/60 sec. on charging and flash ready indication is provided in the camera viewfinder. In addition, when used with EF lenses the camera
will automatically select the aperture to obtain proper exposure in relation to subject distance and film speed. Moreover, the aperture may also be set manually and the flash sensor automatically controls flash intensity for proper exposure,
permitting use with cameras other than the ZE-X.
|
Angle of coverage: 45 vertical, 60 horizontal (coverage down to a 28mm wide-angle lens for 35mm cameras with wide-angle diffuser attached).
Power Source: Four AA-size alkaline or
rechargeable Ni-Cad batteries. 4www.butkus.org
Mamiyalite ZE
 |
This clip on auto flash unit features a guide number of 17 (ASA100 in meters) which is reduced to GN 12 with the wide-angle diffuser attached. It features two auto flash
ranges plus manual flash override.
Note: When used with ZE-X use only the aperture priority AE or manual operation mode to ensure proper flash exposures. And also, the crossover switch should be set to FIX. |
Angle of coverage: 45 vertical, 60 horizontal (coverage down to 28mm wide-angle lens for 35mm cameras with wide-angle diffuser attached).
Power source: Four M-size alkaline or rechargeable Ni-Cad batteries.
4www.butkus.org
Mamiya Winder ZE
 |
Mounting the Mamiya Winder ZE on the camera eliminates the need to advance film manually. Photographic opportunities can be captured more easily because there is no
need to take the eye away from the viewfinder for film advance.
|
In continuous shooting with the winder, the ZE-X is preferably set at either shutter speed priority mode or aperture priority mode with crossover AE mode, so that the
camera can provides you the best possible exposure settings throughout changing lighting situation and shows the exposure data in the viewfinder. Incidentally, "M"
indication of manual and "P" indication of programmed mode may not be shown, because those indications will be shown with a slight delay to appear in the viewfinder after
the shutter is operated. Even if the indications are not appear in continuous shooting, the camera will be operated correctly.
Power source: Four AA-size alkaline or rechargeable Ni-Cad batteries.
4www.butkus.org
Filters
Mamiya filters are made of high-quality optical glass to maintain the high performance of the camera lens. They are available in the following five types: SY48 (Y2), S056
(02), SL39 (UV), YG, and SL-1 B (skylight).4www.butkus.org
Lena Hoods ZE
Mamiya lens hoods are an important accessory for getting the best possible performance from the camera lens because they minimize the entry of stray light which can
cause internal reflection and lead to flare or ghost images.
Always use the lens hood designed for the specific focal length of the lens being used.
Accessories
Diopter Correction Lenses ZE
Far- and near-sighted people sometimes find it difficult to focus a camera due to the optical characteristics of the viewfinder system. This situation, however, can easily be
remedied by using a diopter correction lens and adapter.
These diopter correction lenses are available in six different strengths: +3, +2, +1, -1, -2 and -3.
· Before purchasing a diopter correction lens at your Mamiya dealer, be sure to actually try various strength diopter lenses and select the one that suits your eyesight.
1. Rubber Eye-cup ZE with Adapter
This adapter is required for attaching the diopter correction lenses to the camera. The rubber eye-cup helps to prevent stray light
entering the viewfinder while taking photographs.
To attach the diopter correction lens, first remove the mounting ring located inside the eye-cup by turning it counter-clockwise; then put the lens in place and replace the
ring.
2. Magnifier ZE
The magnifier is a useful aid for critical focusing as required in copy work, close-up photography, and similar applications. The size of the image is doubled and only the
center part is visible for more accurate work. The magnifier also features diopter adjustment
3. Angle Finder ZE
The angle finder is useful when shooting at low angles and for copy work. Click stops are provided every 90, but full 360 rotation is possible for viewing even from the side
or from below. The angle finder also features built-in diopter adjustment from -4 to +4.
4. Close-up lens ZE
The close-up lenses ZE are convenient attachment lenses which screw directly to the filter threads of the master camera lens enabling swift and easy conversion to close-up photography.
Two models are available: Close-up lens No. 1 having +2 diopters, and Close-up lens No. 2 having +4
diopters.
 |
 |
 |
5. Auto Extension Rings ZE
A set of three extension rings are intended for close-up photography and mount between the camera body and lens, directly coupling with the ZE camera metering system
and the lens automatic diaphragm. Three different lengths of the rings can be used
individuality or in combination.
6. Auto Bellows ZE
This is an easy to operate, precision bellows type close-up attachment. Automatic aperture stop-down coupling is possible using a double cable release. And the front
standard can be swiveled 360, permitting simple reversing of the lens for large magnification ratios with images that are sharp to the very edges.
Shift control also enables control of perspective. And the camera can also be rotated at the back for a choice of vertical or horizontal format with easy operation. The
focusing rail allows the entire bellows unit to be shifted back and forth for sensitive adjustment of distance and focusing.
7. Slide Copier ZE
This device is mounted on the front of the Auto Bellows for making copies of
slides. Convenient film trays are provided for copying film strips. The slide stage
also moves vertically and horizontally for ; easier cropping of 35mm slides.
 |
 |
8. Bellows Stand ZE
Used with the Auto Bellows, the Bellows Stand is used for copying small objects such as stamps, coins, insects, etc. Clips are provided for holding subjects on the
platform.. And the platform rotates for precise positioning. The platform is also finished to provide 18% reflectance, convenient for measuring exposures. A clear glass
platform is also included for backlighting of subjects.
Precautions on Batteries
The Mamiya ZE-X has a built-in circuit that automatically gives a warning when battery power is running low. In this case, the data display in the viewfinder flashes at the
rate of 8 times per second when the shutter release button is lightly pressed.
· The batteries should be replaced as quickly as possible, although several exposures can still be made. When the batteries go completely dead, the viewfinder display will
not light at all and the shutter will not be released.
· Batteries normally last for one year or more, but it is advisable to replace them once a year at least. Those who take large numbers of photographs should replace the
batteries more frequently. Always be on the lookout for the flashing display warning.
· Batteries should always be removed when the camera is not be used for an extended time. Keep them in a cool, dry place. Leaving batteries in the camera for long periods
may result in leakage which could damage the internal mechanisms.
· Always keep batteries out of the reach of children and never throw used batteries into a fire or expose to excessive heat.
· When going on trips be sure to carry spare batteries to ensure that the camera will function. Also, as batteries tend to temporarily malfunction at temperatures below
freezing, when photographing in extremely cold climates, carry spares kept in a warm pocket to ensure continued operation should those in the camera malfunction. (The
performance of batteries which malfunction due to cold will return to normal when batteries are exposed again to room temperature for several hours).
Batteries Replacement
When replacing batteries, use 1.5V alkaline batteries LR44 or silver oxide batteries SR44 (Eveready S-76, UCAR S-76,
Ray-O-Vac RS-76, Mallory MS-76, or equivalent).
Although 1.3V mercury batteries are the same shape and size, they will not operate the camera normally.4www.butkus.org
Either alkaline or silver oxide batteries may be used as replacement, but always replace both together and do not mix brand and types, also, never mix old and new
batteries.
Handling Cautions
Be sure that the shutter release button isn't pressed down when carrying the camera or when putting it away as the LED display will stay on and drain the batteries.
The depth of the tripod socket is 2-3/16 in. (5.5mm). If a tripod is used with a mount screw longer than this, the internal mechanisms of the camera may be damaged. Do
not use excessive force when mounting the camera on a tripod.
Avoid strong vibration and shock since this may cause adverse influence on the delicately adjusted parts of the camera. Be careful not to drop the camera or allow it to
strike against objects.
Do not keep the camera for extended periods where temperature is above 100 F (40 C) or below 5 F (-15 C), or where there is excessive humidity or salt in the air. The
camera mechanism or film can also be damaged if the camera is left for a long time in a place where there is naphthalene or formalene gas. Always store color film at the
designated temperature.
Never touch the surface of the mirror or lens with the hands. Any dust should be blown off with a blower or wiped off by lightly applying a soft cloth. Be especially sure to
never rub the surface of the mirror.
Always clean the camera carefully after photographing at the beach or other place where there is salt in the air. Clean the many plastic parts by gently wiping with a soft, dry
cloth. Never use solvents when cleaning.
Inspect the camera periodically when it is not being used. Be sure to inspect moving parts before trying to take important photographs. This includes the film advance and
shutter operation, electronic flash synchronization, etc. Test shots should also be taken if possible to discover any irregularities that may exist. (Incidental damage which
results in this camera malfunctioning will not be compensated.) Do not try to repair or lubricate the camera if some irregularity is discovered. Leave this to your Mamiya
dealer.
Specifications:
Type of camera: 35mm Single Lens Reflex (SLR) multimode automatic exposure (AK) camera.
Mode of operation: Crossover mode (Shutter speed priority AK, Aperture priority AK, Programmed AK, Electronic flash AE with automatic crossover among these modes),
plus full manual override.
Picture format: 24mm x 36mm
Usable lenses: Mamiya-Sekor EF and E series lenses with Mamiya ZE bayonet mount.
Standard lenses: Mamiya-Sekor EF/E 50mm f/1.4, MamiyaSekor EF/E 50mm f/1.7 and Mamiya-Sekor E 50mm f/2.0.
Viewfinder magnification ratio: 0.86X with 93% horizontal and 91% vertical field of view (with 50mm lens at
oo).
Viewfinder information: Full information display via LED digital readout at base of finder; aperture and shutter speed display, indications for crossover system, programmed
AE mode, flash ready, EV variation and manual operation. Flicker of display warns incorrect exposures and incorrect operation at 2 Hz/sec., and low-batteries condition
at 8 Hz/sec.
Focusing screen: Split-image/microprism with matte field.
Metering system: TTL center-weighted, open aperture metering with GPD (gallium photo diode).
Metering range: -3 - +18 EV (ASA 100 with 50mm f/1.4 lens).
Film speed range: ASA 6 - 3200 in 1/3 increments with lock.
Exposure compensation: REV in 1/3 stops (dial locks at 5eo'')
Exposure memory: Via shutter button/exposure memory button.
Shutter: Seiko M.F.C. type metal, vertically run electronic focal plane shutter.
Shutter speeds: Auto shutter speeds from 22 sec. - 1/1000 sec., manual speeds from 8 sec. - 1/1000 sec. in clickstop settings, plus B (all speeds electronically operated).
Shutter button: Electromagnetic release (activates all circuits by pressing the button partway).
Multiple exposures: Multiple exposure lever disengages film advance and exposure counter.
Self-timer: Electronically operated with 2, 6 and 10 sec. interval settings, features LED and PCV sound warnings.
Flash synch: X hotshoe synch at 1/60 sec.; auto synch on charging with Mamiya dedicated flash units.
Dedicated flash features: Full automatic flash photography possible using with Mamiyalite
MZ; shutter speed and aperture automatically set when flash has charged.
Film advance: 130 winding angle, 30 stand-off angle.
Exposure counter: Auto resetting, additive type (disengages for multiple exposures).
Film rewind: Via crank and film rewind release button.
Back cover: Opens by pulling film rewind crank; removable, with memo holder.
Power source: Two 1.5V alkaline-manganese LR44 batteries or two 1.5V silver oxide SR44 batteries; activate meter and camera systems on pressing shutter button
partway. 4www.butkus.org
Other features: Eyepiece blind, winder/auto rewind-attachment provision, auxiliary shutter release contacts for electronic remote control. -
Dimensions: 139.5mm (W) x 89mm (H) x 50.5mm (D)
Weight: 470 grams (body only, without batteries)
| Back to first section | Back to second section |
