Miranda Sensorex
Posted on April 28, 2003
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For reference use on many Sensorex manual focus and metering cameras
PICTURE COMPOSITION AND VIEWFINDERS
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As the viewfinder of the SLR shows the very image which is formed by the taking lens, it is easy to check the relation between the subject's perspective and its
background, as well as the color tone effects when using color film, exactly as will be exposed on the actual film.
MIRANDA Sensorex has a viewfinder of 0.92 magnification (with 50mm f/I.8 lens) and 95% coverage. The size of the picture is intended to match the size of the color slide mount. It also causes absolutely no parallax (difference between the area covered by the viewfinder and by the taking lens) not only in ordinary shooting but, also in all types of close-ups. |
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The viewfinder on MIRANDA Sensorex is interchangeable and can be changed with the most convenient type according to the purpose of the shot so as to make
best use of the camera's capacity. The v viewfinders available are the pentaprism type and waist-level finders Types I and 3.
· For ordinary shooting it is convenient to use the pentaprism viewfinder which shows the image right side up and right way round. · For low-angle or high position shooting and for candid shots, the waist-level finder VFI becomes useful; however, special care should be taken to avoid light entering the camera through the focusing screen which may cause incorrect exposure. · For close-up, copying and photomicrographic work, use critical focuser VF 3 . This viewfinder when collapsed turns into a I 5 times magnifier for critical focusing at the center of the focusing screen. When opened it becomes a 5 times magnifier for inspecting the entire picture area. |
The viewfinder on MIRANDA Sensorex is interchangeable and can be changed with the most convenient type according to the purpose of the shot so as to make best use of the camera's capacity. The v viewfinders available are the pentaprism type and waist-level finders Types I and 3.
· For ordinary shooting it is convenient to use the pentaprism viewfinder which shows the image right side up and right way round.
· For low-angle or high position shooting and for candid shots, the waist-level finder VFI becomes useful; however, special care should be taken to avoid light entering the camera through the focusing screen which may cause incorrect exposure.
· For close-up, copying and photomicrographic work, use critical focuser VF 3 . This viewfinder when collapsed turns into a I 5 times magnifier for critical focusing
at the center of the focusing screen. When opened it becomes a 5 times magnifier for inspecting the entire
picture area.
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ADJUSTING THE FOCUS-- While looking through the viewfinder, if the focusing ring is turned either to the right or left it will, make the blurred image of the subject become clear and sharply focused. · The focusing is very easy as the viewfinder shows in its center a
multi-microprism (collection of minute prisms). This gives jagged edges to the image as soon as it
is out of focus even in the slightest degree. Light is collected to the focusing screen by means of a special system of fine-grained Fresnel lens and condenser, which
permits bright corner-to-corner viewing.
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Focusing for Infra-Red Shots
For infra-red shooting, first set to accurate focus in the normal way, then shift that distance reading to match the red "R" mark on the aperture ring of the lens.
HOW TO HOLD CAMERA AND PRESS SHUTTER BUTTON
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To obtain a sharp picture, the camera must be held properly. If there is camera shake, good pictures cannot be obtained even with the best camera in the world. Whether shooting in the vertical or horizontal position, aim the camera at the subject with the elbows pressed against the body if possible, but not too tightly, as this would stiffen the posture.
· Depress the shutter gently, while holding the breath for an instant. · Do not press the shutter button with only the fingertip, but hold the camera between thumb and forefinger and press it as if trying to squeeze the camera. · Use the right eye to look into the viewfinder. · When using telephoto lenses avoid camera shake by holding the lens barrel with the left hand. · Use a tripod when shooting at slow speeds.
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SHOOTING AT SLOW SPEEDS
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Hand-held shooting at speeds slower than I/30 second is liable to cause camera shake. In such a case. use a tripod when possible preferably a sturdy kind.
When using a tripod it is better to work with a cable release, which can be screwed into the cable release socket on the shutter release button. In slow speed shooting, make sure the shutter is completely closed before winding the film advance lever again.
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SELF-TIMER OPERATION
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To use the self-timer, move the self-timer lever located on the front of the camera body 90 degrees to the left. It allows you a time delay of approximately IO seconds after pressing the shutter release button. You may also get any intermediate time delay- under IO seconds depending on the angle to which you set the lever. You may set the self-timer either before or after the shutter is cocked. After setting the self-timer, if you decide not to use it, you simply have to return the lever to its original position, and the self timer will be disconnected. The self-timer may be used very conveniently in place of a cable release. It will release the shutter without any vibration. |
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY
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· For snapshots at night, in dark places, and in indoor shooting, flashbulbs or electronic flash can be used to good
advantage. Flash units also provide auxiliary light for taking pictures of against-the-light subjects. · For flash shooting, an exclusive flash Bracket is mounted to the bottom of the camera. · The flash units is inserted from the rear of the flash bracket and secured by tightening its mount. · Insert the plug of the flash unit into the camera's synchro terminal. For taking pictures with ordinary flash bulbs, turn the selector dial to FP (focal plane). · For taking pictures with electronic flash, turn the selector dial to X. When electronic flash is used the shutter speed must be set at I/60 marked in red on the speed dial. For details, refer to the table on the next page. · The F Class and M Class bulbs can also be used with slow shutter speeds (slower than l/30 see) but whenever possible use the FP Class bulbs. · Each type of flashbulb or electronic flash has a Guide Number to indicate its light output. Exposure should be calculated from these guide numbers, The Guide Number is the product of "distance to subject" multiplied by the lens aperture value. From this relationship, the correct lens aperture can be obtained by dividing the Guide Number with the "distance to the subject". |
-VARIOUS WAYS OF USING FLASH
As main light source
The flash unit is pointed towards to subject and exposure is determined by the exposure index attached to the flash unit.
Bounce light
This way of lighting diffuses the light evenly over the subject and surroundings is and obtained by flashing upwards, reflecting the light from ceiling and walls. In
this case the lens opening should be increased by 2 - 3 more Stops, due to a certain amount of loss of light.
Fill-in light
To be used for out door photography against the light, to avoid shadows in nearby subjects. No special precautions have to be taken as the fill-in flash will not
affect the exposure.
Combination Table for Flash Shooting
FILM REWINDING
1. First, the film rewind release button on the base of the camera body is pushed in until a small click is heard. This button need not be held during rewinding. The
film is now free from the sprocket which has been advancing it, and is ready for rewinding.
2. Flip the rewind crank on the rewind knob and wind in the direction of the arrow. At the end of the roll you will feel the resistance increase and then suddenly
cease. Turn the rewind crank several more times to make certain the film has been entirely rewound.
3.Open the back cover by depressing the lock button and pulling up the cover clip at the same time. Pull up the rewind knob and take out the film cartridge.
DEPTH OF FIELD.
no depth of field depth of field
This is. the range that appears in sharp focus for any particular distance and diaphragm setting. There is relatively very little depth of field where close-up subjects
are focused on, and a great deal of depth of field in the case of more distant subjects. Closing the diaphragm down increases the depth of field and opening the
diaphragm reduces it. The depth of field also varies with the lens used. Wide angle lenses have great depth of field while telephoto lenses provide lesser depth of held. If your picture is such that you want both nearby and distant objects to be in sharp focus, then the smallest possible diaphragm should be used.
However, very frequently the composition of a picture can be improved by having the principal subject in sharp focus while giving a soft, out-of-focus effect on other
objects in the scene. This will de-emphasize distracting background objects and concentrate the viewer's attention on the
principal subject.
HOW TO ASCERTAIN THE DEPTH OF FIELD
On the side of the lens barrel is the preview button. Pressing down this lever which is unrelated to the automatic diaphragm mechanism of the lens, temporarily
stops down the lens to the preset aperture. This permits ascertaining through the viewfinder the actual depth of field at that aperture value.
This checking can of course be done more easily by magnifying the viewfinder's image. This applies particularly to copying. By interchanging the camera's
viewfinder with the critical-focuser VF3, the image can be viewed more critically through its high-power magnifier.
At the center of the lens barrel, facing up, is the depth-of-field scale which indicates the depth of field at a glance. The picture shows the focus adjusted to 2 meters,
indicating that the range in which sharp images can be obtained extend from 1.75 to 2.5 meters at f/8 aperture and about I .5 to 3 meters at f/ 16.
LENS INTERCHANGING_
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MIRANDA Sensorex has a bayonet type lens mount which permits quick lens interchanging and accurate coupling of the automatic diaphragm mechanism of the
lens.
Lenses can be interchanged regardless of whether the film is advanced or not. Moreover, it makes no difference what aperture value the lenses may have been set at the time of changing. For Miranda interchangeable lenses not belonging to the exclusive Auto-Miranda Series, such as Soligor or other preset lenses, the inside screw mount can be used. Also various adapters and accessories can be attached by using either the bayonet or the screw mounts. |
Detaching the Lens
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While pressing the lens lock lever on the side of the lens barrel, turn the lens counterclockwise l/8 of a full turn. When the red dot on the barrel stops at the red line
on the camera body, the lens comes off easily.
When attaching or detaching the lens, it is advisable to have the camera facing up on one's lap or other manageable place to assure safe and correct handling. · When changing the lens, take care not to let direct light enter the camera body. |
Attaching the Lens
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Match the red dot of the lens barrel with the red line on the body, fit the lens tightly and turn it clockwise l/8 of a full turn. It will then click into position with the
red dot exactly in the center.
· Be careful not to hold the helical portion of the lens (focusing ring section in front) when mounting the lens as the focusing mechanism may be damaged. |
MIRANDA INTERCHANGEABLE LENSES--
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MIRANDA Sensorex has a number of extremely high resolution interchangeable lenses which embody the latest optical theories and original designing. The Auto-Miranda lenses are of fully automatic diaphragm type, available in seven types . from z8mm to I 3 5mm (mote in preparations), while the preset diaphragm lenses are available in 3 3 types from 25mm to 800mm. This wide range permits selection of the most suitable lens for any purpose. The high resolving power and beautiful blurring effects, as well as the perfect color balance, combined with light weight and easy use have made the Miranda lenses the most desired in the world. |
Auto MIRANDA 28mm f/2.8
A high speed, full-fledged ultra-wide angle lens, having great depth of field and no conspicuous distortion. Its brightness of f/2.8 exhibits its fullest power in outdoor snapshots and architectural pictures, as well as in indoor and night scene shooting. It is made in a retrofocus formula.
Coverage angle 75°, lens construction 6 groups 8 elements, smallest aperture f/l6, closest focus at z5 centimeters, uses filters of 46mm screw-in type, dimensions
57.5 x 60mm, weight is 230 grams.
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Auto MIRANDA 35 mm f/2.8
As a wide angle lens, this is the most popular type, causing least exaggeration of perspective and is very easy to use. This is a versatile wide angle lens of f/2.8 brightness which is most suitable for night snapshots and indoor portraits. It is a lens which should not be overlooked. Coverage angle 63O, lens construction 5 groups 6 elements, smallest aperture f/I6, closest focus at 30 centimeters, uses screwing filters of 46mm, dimensions 57.5x 47mm, weight is 195 grams. |
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Auto MIRANDA 105mm f/2.8
A popular type telephoto lens which gives 2X magnified image as compared with the standard lens. It has nearly the same coverage angle as the concentrated condition of the human eye and almost natural perspective, making it a versatile lens for portraits, snapshots, landscapes and all types of subjects. Coverage angle z3O, lens construction 3 groups 6 elements, smallest aperture f/22, closest focus at 1.2I'M meter, uses screw-m filters of 46mm, dimensions 59 x 6g.4mm, which is 360 grams. |
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Auto MIRANDA 135mm f/2.8
The most popular and typical telephoto lens which should be added to increase the efficiency of MIRANDA Sensorex. It can handle close-ups, portraits, stage photography, animal life and an endless variety of subjects. The size of the image is z.7 times larger than the standard lens. Coverage angle 18°, lens construction 5 groups 5 elements, smallest aperture f/22, closest focus at I.7 meters, uses screw-in filters of 55mm, dimensions 63 x g4.omm, weight is 49° grams. |
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Auto MIRANDA 135mm f/3.5
Lightweight and easy-to-use telephoto lens. Brightness is slightly less than f/z.8 but has wonderful resolution owing to its excellent designing. As f/3.5 brightness is sufficient for ordinary shooting, it shows good telephoto effects in sports and portraits. Coverage angle 18°, lens construction 3 groups 4 elements, smallest aperture, f/22, closest focus at 1.5 meters, uses screw-in filters of 46mm, dimensions 59.7 x q4.omm. weight is 410 prams. |
WIDEN YOUR PHOTOGRAPHIC SCOPE WITH MIRANDA'S LARGE RANGE OF
ACCESSORIES
A. Viewfinders
VF1 Viewfinder VF3 Viewfinder (5X) VF3 Viewfinder (15X)
As already explained briefly in connection with picture composition and viewfinder, the reflex finder differs from the pentaprism viewfinder, which is used at eye-level, in being useful in taking pictures at waist-level. One of the special features of the MIRANDA camera is the interchangeability of viewfinders. The
interchangeable Miranda viewfinder system is far superior to the angle finder attachment
used by other SLR cameras, as it permits viewing of a bright and life-size image.
The viewfinder can be removed for interchanging by sliding it toward the rear, while pushing the viewfinder lock button to the left. To attach, match the
viewfinder's base to the camera's groove and slide it forward until it clicks into position.
C. Focabell
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This is an extension bellows unit which is used between the lens and camera body for taking ultra close-up shots and magnified pictures of small objects. It is available in two types. It is attached to the camera
in the same way as the lens by using the outside bayonet mount and matching to the red line.
· The tripod socket of Focabell can be suitably shifted to obtain proper balance.
· When combined with the short-barrel Soligor 135mm f/3.5 lens, it becomes usable over a wide range of conditions from infinity to ultra close-ups.
As the field of coverage can be easily varied it is extremely convenient in taking pictures of animal life and scientific works.
Focabell AII
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A deluxe type of extension bellows unit, double track and rack-and pinion for speedy movements and a precision focusing device. |
Focabell S
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Foldable compact type with single track which is light and easy to carry. · Pushing the lever on its right side permits the bellows to slide forward. Pulling it back locks the bellows firmly. · Between the two tracks is a scale giving magnification ratios and exposure factors, black figures on one side for the 50mm lens and red figures on its reverse for the short-barrel Grimm lens. This scale can be detached by removing a screw and re-attached to indicate the side which matches the lens being used. |
· Magnification ratio is I~Z.6 times with 50mm lens and infinity to o.6 times with short-barrel I35mm lens. The figures on the scale show magnification ratios at top and exposure at bottom.
· The magnification ratios are read off from the position indicated by the tip of the precision focusing device.
· Erect the track and lock it in position by moving the small button on the focusing knob side.
· The focusing knob is on the right side and the locking knob which is turned clockwise for locking the track is on the left side.
· The magnification scale on the left side is for o.g~z.5 times With the 50mmSomme lens, that on the right is for infinity to o.5 tulles with the short-barrel r35mm lens.
· The magnification ratios can be read off from the position of the tip of the track guide, which slides through the side groove of the track.
D. Extension Tubes
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The standard lens of MIRANDA Sensorex gives sharp focus up to 45mm (17") (roughly
21 X I4cm fill up the entire viewfinder field). But to shoot at closer distances, the extension tubes become necessary.
Extension tubes are available in four lengths, one AU Adapter and three intermediate rings. The AU Adapter is equipped with a screw and bayonet mount; the rings
use the inside screw mount.
The AU Adapter has the same length as Tube No. I. The tubes are of lengths 8mm, 16mm and 3zmm, and can be used separately or in combination to give close-ups of O.I5~I.Z3 time magnification. · Magnification ratios and exposure factors are shown on the next page (for 50mmSomme lens at infinity). · These are handy to use in copying photographs or taking pictures of insect specimens.
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When mounted between the camera body and microscope, this adapter makes microscopic picture-taking extremely easy.
· The camera lens is taken off. · The viewfinder may be interchanged with critical focuser VF3 for easier focusing. How to Attach
(I) Attach adapter to camera body. (z) The connection piece at the end is turned counter-clockwise and detached. (3) Take off microscope's eyepiece and attach it to the inside of the connection piece (Picture at left). r4) Insert into microscope's eyepiece as before, match the red spots on tube and bayonet mount of connection piece, set to position to be used and tighten the connection piece's screw (Picture at right).
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CLICK HERE FOR OTHER ACCESSORIES
LENS: AUTO-MIRANDA 50mm f/I.8, 4-group 6-element or 50mm fI.4 6 group8 element Gauss type, spectra-hard coated, fully automatic diaphragm coupled to through-the-lens CdS exposure meter,
smallest aperture f/l6, preview lever, closest focus at 45cm (17"0 uses screw-in 46mm filter.
SHUTTER: Focal plane type, speeds of I -1/1000 sec., plus B.
FLASH SYNCHRO: FP 8t X (X at I /60th)
VIEWFINDER: Pentaprism, interchangeable with waist-level types, magnification 0.92X.(with 50mm f/I.8 at infinity), condenser and Fresnel lens combined.
FOCUSING: Pentaprism with multi-microprism grid.
LENS MOUNT: Miranda Mount, bayonet and screw mounts.
LENS INTERCHANGEABILITY: Accepts Miranda as well as other automatic and preset lenses.
EXPOSURE: Through-the-lens CdS light measuring (I) at full aperture, (z) at closed aperture, or (3) through selective spot or
average reading, match-needle visible in the finder, measuring range EVI-I8(l4~(ASA
100) film speed range ASA Z5-I600, CdS sensing spot in the center of the
mirror, area of CdS sensor 5% of total mirror area, uses Mallory ~ 6z, mercury battery or equivalent.
FILM ADVANCE: Single or several short strokes of lever.
FILM REWIND: Rewind knob with collapsible crank, self-resetting release button
FILM COUNTER: Advance counting type with film wind (shutter cocking) indicator.
OTHER FEATURES: Double exposure prevention, ASA speed indicator, lens speed selector with settings from f/I.4 to f/8, hinged back cover with double safety self-locking device (entirely detachable from camera body).
SIZE: I46 x 94 x 86mm (thickness of body 52mm).
WEIGHT: w/50mm fI.8 1000 grams w/5omm fI.4 1100 grams Body only 6So grams
CARE AND STORAGE OF CAMERA--
When used on the beach, in strong wind or other unfavorable conditions, damage may be caused if left unattended, so please observe the following precautions:
CARE AFTER USE
· Clean the lens of dust and dirt by using a soft brush lightly, but do not clean too often.
· Use chamois or other soft material to clean the chrome plated parts.
Always use a blower to clean the mirror, which must never be touched with fingers.
PRECAUTIONS IN STORING
· Avoid places of high temperature or high humidity.
· Be careful to avoid shocks as they may cause damage.
· Keep the shutter uncocked.
· Set the lens to infinity before closing the camera case.
· Be very careful not to drop the camera into salt water as repair may become Impossible.
· In case the camera is to be left unused for some time, pack it in a plastic bag together with a drying chemical and enclose it within a can or other strong container to prevent damage.
