Model D 3/4ths view lens facing right
Zenza Instruction Booklet for Model D
Meet Your Bronica
It is best that you become acquainted with your new Bronica at the very
outset. For soon you will both become close and inseparable companions
sharing many delights and adventures in photography.
Your Bronica is a precision instrument upon which has been lavished the
utmost of human ingenuity and skill. It is unique in its field possessing
convenience and automatic features to be found in no other instrument of
its type.
The Bronica was designed to extend the scope of photographic expression
beyond the limitations imposed by conventional equipment. It was designed
to serve you - help you create the fine picture results you have often
conceived yet found to be beyond thekenof present camera equipment. The
Bronica is an integrated tool in which automatic operation and quality of
performance combine to equip and assist you in achieving notably better
pictures.
Devote the extra minutes it will take you to know your Bronica well. Read
the instructions carefully. Your efforts will be rewarded by a fruitful
companionship which will last for many, many years.
[page 3]
Model D 3/4ths view lens facing right
[page 4]
Contents
Subject Index
Illustrated Description
Front View (8,9)
Top View (10,11)
Side View (right) (12,13)
Side View (left) (14,15)
Bottom View (16,17)
Special Features
Instant-return automatic mirror (18,19)
Instant-reopen automatic diaphragm
and depth of field preview button (20,21)
Interchangeable 'Filminder' Back and Nikkor lenses (22,23)
Loading the Camera
Removing 'Filminder' back (24)
Opening 'Filminder' back (25)
Loading the film in the 'Filminder' back (26,27)
Replacing 'Filminder' back (27)
Unloading Film after taking Picture (27)
Photography with Bronica
Winding the Shutter and Advancing the Film (28)
Pre-setting the Diaphragm and Focusing (28,29)
Using the Depth-of-Field preview button (30)
Using the Self-Timer (30,31)
Selecting the Shutter Speed (32)
Making the Exposure (33)
Making Double or Multiple Exposures
and Interchanging lenses (34)
Using Flash (35)
Using the Neck-Strap (36)
Using a Tripod (37)
Views of Model D (Index)
[page 6]
Photos of camera from top, sides, bottom linked to Illustrated
Description pages by page number and colored page index marks
[page 7]
[page 8]
Front View Model D
[page 9]
[note: ASA film indicator is ASA wheel in center of filminder back, just
a reminder, not tied into anything; focusing scale for 75mm lens is
visible from top of focusing knob also used to wind film...]
[page 10]
Top View Model D
[page 11]
[page 12]
Model D - Right Side View
[page 13]
[note: emergency dejamming screw is mounted right above left side camera
strap studs in center of body, at rear nearly flush with filminder back
mount]
[page 14]
Model D - Left Side View
[note that lock and release are separate items on filminder back]
[page 15]
[page 16]
Model D - Bottom View
[note: tripod mount appears somewhat off-center in lower circular
mounting area]
[page 17]
Special Features of the Bronica
One of the first delightful discoveries you make as you handle your new
Bronica is in the speed with which the image returns to the viewing
screen after the exposure is made.*** You've focused and composed your
subject. You shoot. And, in no more than it takes for the exposure to be
made, the image is back on the screen - as bright, as clear and as sharp
as before. It gives you a sense of 'follow-through' as you shoot, a
feeling of confidence about what you are getting. And it's all because of
the two features which have made the Bronica a most remarkable
instrument; the Instant-Return Automatic Mirror and the Instant-Reopening
Automatic Diaphragm.
[editor's note: this feature is highlighted as competitors such as
Hasselblad did not have these features, having to be cranked to reopen
lens]
Instant-Return Automatic Mirror
The reflex mirror of the Bronica is of an exclusive and original design.
It does not flip up for the exposure (as in other single lens reflex
cameras). It moves forward and down, with greater clearance provided for
deeply seated lenses, permitting shorter focal lengths to be used without
mirror interference. Thus, the Bronica can be equipped with a normal 75mm
lens, and can be used with a 50mm wide angle. After the exposure, the
Bronica mirror instantly - automatically returns to the viewing position.
[page 18]
Model D - Side View (Lens Facing Left)
Cross-section of Body shows mirror movement in 3 steps...
[page 19]
[page 20]
Instant-Reopen Automatic Diaphragm
Lenses for the Bronica have fully automatic diaphragms. You focus and
view with the lens wide open. When the exposure is made, the diaphragm
automatically closes down to the aperture previously selected for the
exposure. Directly after the exposure, the diaphragm instantly and
automatically reopens to full aperture, to provide a bright clear image
on the focusing screen - ready for the next picture without further
adjustment.
Depth-of-Field Preview Button
The lens of the Bronica is always wide open for focusing and viewing.
This provides maximum image-screen brightness for greater ease and
accuracy. However, it is often desirable to see the depth of field at
'taking' aperture. By depressing the Depth-of-Field Preview Button, the
diaphragm automatically closes down to the pre-selected aperture
(f-stop). Release the button and the diaphragm instantly reopens to full
aperture.
[page 21]
Interchangeable 'Filminder' Back
This convenient feature offers many advantages. It permits you to change
film in the middle of a roll (black-and-white to color, color to
black-and-white, indoor to daylight, etc.) without the loss of a single
exposure. It also permits you to pre-load several backs, and shoot
continuously without having to stop and reload.
The 'Filminder' Back is fully automatic and fool-proof. It is equipped
with a metal dark-slide to prevent the film from being exposed while the
back is off the camera. The back cannot be removed until the dark-slide
is inserted, and while the back is off the camera, the dark-slide cannot
be withdrawn.
When a 'Filminder' Back is attached to the camera, no attention need be
paid as to whether the film or the shutter has been previously wound. The
transport knob, which normally winds shutter and film simultaneously,
automatically performs only the required function. For example, if the
shutter is wound, and if the film in position has been exposed, rotating
the transport knob will only advance the film to a fresh, unexposed
section. Also, when the back is on the camera, the dark-slide must be
completely withdrawn before an exposure can be made.
[editor's note: The above points address some deficiencies of other
competing designs, e.g., Hasselblad]
[page 22]
Side View of Model D - Back Removed
135mm, 75mm, 50mm lenses
Nikkor Lenses
Nikkor lenses are standard equipment for the Bronica. No finer optics can
be found whose quality more suitably complements the superb performance
of the Bronica. Nikkor lenses have proven to be the finest in 35mm
photography - a field in which optical quality is especially critical and
demanding. Available focal lengths range from 50mm wide angle to 1000mm
super telephoto. The 50, 75 adn 135mm lenses are equipped with Instant
Return Automatic Diaphragm and designated as Auto-Nikkors.
[page 23]
How to Use Your Bronica
Removing Back
Loading the Camera 120 Roll Film
The BRONICA may be loaded either with the 'Filminder' back on or off the
camera. Instructions for removing back are given for information only.
1. Removing 'Filminder' Back
A. Hold camera in left hand. Grasp 'filminder' back with right hand so
that thumb rests on protruding edge of dark-slide.
Note: The 'Filminder' back cannot be removed from the Bronica
unless the metal slide is inserted. Therefore, if the darkslide is out of
the camera, it must first be inserted.
B. Press dark-slide inward with thumb. This releases the 'filminder' back
from the camera. Remove by tilting the 'Filminder' back as illustrate and
lift from open hinge at bottom.
Note: Your Bronica 'Filminder' back is equipped with two
dark-slides. They differ only in the shape of the handle. The one with
the smaller handle is recommended for use where the camera is to be
carried about with the slide in position. By folding the handle flat
against the slide before inserting, it will prevent te slide from being
accidentally depressed, thereby, inadvertently detaching the back.
[page 24]
Three Steps to Open Back
II. Opening 'Filminder' Back
A. Press red lock-button and simultaneously rotate lock-wheel in the
direction of arrow (clockwise) as far as it will turn. First release red
button, then lock-wheel.
B. The 'Filminder' back cover can now be removed (as illustrated).
[editor's note: it appears from photo that entire rear cover of back
lifts off?]
C. Remove film holder from filminder back.
D. Note that film holder consists of two parts hinged together. By
swinging the two parts open until the link is straight (locked in
position), you can see the inside spindle which accepts the take-up
spool, and the one on the other part which accomodates the full film spool.
E. When closing filminder back, fit the back cover evenly and press down
for locking from the bottom, and then, lock the top.
Caution: In case one or both locks are not positively locked, the
automatic film winding device may not operate accurately.
Inserting film and Reassembling Back
[page 25]
Steps For Loading Film
A. With film holder open, pinch grey plastic tabs together as indicated
by red arrows. This opens spindles to allow clearance for inserting full
film spools.
B. Place full film spool into 'well' so that outside of paper backing
unrolls in contact with curved portion of film holder. Release spindle tabs.
C. Draw paper backing over the first roller, across the flat pressure
plate and over the second roller. When insert take-up spool push the film
guide-late downward, and insert from the end of take-up spool. (sic)
D. Open film holder and insert leader paper backing into wide slot of
take-up spool. Secure by rotating take-up spool one revolution (turns in
one direction only).
Caution: Make sure the leader paper is pulled out in parallel.
E. Close film holder by pushing the link in the direction of the red
arrow and reinsert into open 'filminder' back with gear on film holder
towards gear in 'filminder' back.
F. Replace cover on filminder back wth ASA film speed indicator on top.
Press red button and squeeze together until back 'clicks' down. The
'filminder' back is now loaded and closed.
G. Set ASA indicator for type and speed of film.
Re-assembling Back
At this point film may be wound by simply turning Manual Film Wind
- or with Film Advance Knob after Filminder Back is attached to camera.
In either case winding will stop automatically when film reaches first
exposure. Exposure counter window will show '1' [number 1 in circle]. In
case taking out the take-up spool, push the film guide-plate and pinch up
the spool after sliding out leftward slightly.(sic)
[page 26]
New Exclusive Film Tension System
The *Bronica film tension system achieves perfect film flatness at focal
plane together with ease of film wind. All tension on th film is released
during the winding process. The instant the film is in place, tension is
automatically applied.
This method not only allows much greater tension to ensure perfect
flatness of the focal plane, but also eliminates possibility of film
scratches during winding.
*Patent applied.
ASA Reminder; Installing Back
Replacing Filminder Back
A. Engage open hinge section at bottom of 'filminder' back and camera.
B. Swing so that they join at top (reverse of opening procedure)
C. Press 'filminder' back against camera until a sharp ''click'' is
heard. 'Filminder' back is now attached.
Note: At this point, remove dark-slide completely in readiness for
taking picture.
[page 27]
Photography with the Bronica
Winding the Shutter and Advancing the Film
The focusing knob on the Bronica also serves to wind the shutter and
advance the film.
A. The focusing knob is brought into shutter and film winding position by
pulling the knurled ring on the focus know outward as far as it will go.
A ''click'' will indicate that the knob is in winding position, and a red
arrow will become visible on the shaft.
Now, turn the knob forward in the direction of the arrow to wind the
shutter and advance the film. If the film has been previously advanced,
only the shutter will wind, and vice versa.
B. After the shutter and film have been fully wound, turn the knob back
slightly in the direction opposite the arrow, and the ring will snap back
into focusing position.
Winding Knob...
Pre-setting the Diaphragm and Focusing the Lens
A. Set diaphragm for pre-selected exposure or taking aperture by rotating
diaphragm pre-selector ring on lens until desired aperture marking is
adjacent to white dot. Pre-selector ring may also be set for intermediate
apertures (between markings).
B. Slide hood-lock in direction of arrow and raise finger. Hood will
unfold and open erect.
C. Look at the image on the focusing screen. Note how uniformly bright it
is from corner to corner and as you rotate the focusing knob, how readily
you can detect when an image is 'in-focus' or 'out-of-focus'.
D. If the 75mm normal lens is on the camera, you can refer to the
distance scale on the shaft of the focusing knob. Notice that the lens
can be focused as close as 19 inches.
[page 28]
Focusing and Using Waist Level Finder
The distance scales for the 50mm wide angle and 135mm telephoto lenses
are engraved on the focusing tube.
E. If a magnified image is desired, push back on hood cover. This wil
release the magnifier, and it will spring into position. Keep your eye
close to the magnifier, and you can then see the entire field of the
focusing screen.
F. After the lens has been critically focused, it can be locked in that
position. This is a very convenient feature for copying, photography in
theater, or microscopic work. Pull down focus lock lever as shown in
accompanying illustration.
Please do not change the previous focus, while pulling down Focus Lock
LEver, as the inside mechanism may be damaged. If you wish to
re-adjust the previous focus, flilp up the focus lock lever to the
original position (released position), then adjust the focus.
G. When you wish to take pictures under relatively quiet conditions.
H. To replace magnifier, press down on metal magnifier frame until it
locks against the under-side of the hood cover.
I. To close the hood, first fold in the sides, then the back, and lastly,
bring the front cover down until it ''clicks'' shut.
J. To remove the focusing hood - either for cleaning the screen or
interchanging with sports or other finders - lift the hood retaining lock
above camera name plate. Hood will spring free.
Removing Waist Level Finder
[page 29]
Using the Depth-of-Field Preview Button
In the Bronica the lens is always wide open for viewing and focusing,
regardless of the aperture you have selected for the exposure. Therefore,
after having focused, you may see the depth-of-field at taking aperture
if you wish.
A. While looking at the focusing screen (with or without magnifier) press
the red button with the forefinger of your left hand. This will instantly
close the diaphragm down to your pre-selected 'taking' aperture and the
image in the screen will show the exact depth-of-field at that aperture.
B. Release the red button and the diaphragm will instantly spring open to
full aperture.
Depth of Field Button
Using the Self-Timer
With automatic exposures from 1 second through 1/1250th, the action of
the shutter can be delayed for any interval ranging from 2 to 10 seconds.
The photographer can thus allow a sufficient lapse of time to step into
the 'picture' before the shutter action occurs.
Another valuable use for this feature is suggested in cases where the
exposure is long (1 second to 1/15th, or even 1/30th) and it is desirable
to avoid jarring or moving the camera by the pressure on the body
release. By introducing a time delay, the shutter action (exposure) takes
place automatically some time after the body release had been squeezed.
Any time delay interval may be selected.
Shutter Control and Self-Timer
[page 30]
A. Rotate the Speed Selector to the desired shutter speed.
B. Set the Calibrated Timer Wheel for the desired delay interval, by
releasing the Calibrated Timer Lock by sliding it in the direction of the
arrow [ed. note: forward]. As soon as dial is free to rotate remove
finger from Timer lock.
C. If the shutter had not been previously wound, do so at this time.
D. Make the exposure in the normal fashion, by pressing the body release.
Note: If after you have set the Calibrated Timer Wheel you wish to re-set
it for a shorter time interval, simply slide the Calibrated Timer lock
in the direction of the arrow and hold until the Timer Wheel runs down to
the interval desired. Or, if you have decided not to use delayed action,
simply continue rotation of Timer Wheel to desired marking. These
instructions also apply where the Timer Wheel is used to make automatic
exposures from 2 to 10 seconds (see X-D).
Shutter Speed and Self Timer Setting
[page 31]
X. Selecting the Shutter Speed
A. Shutter speed may be selected either before or after the shutter is wound.
B. Rotate the Shutter Selector on the focus knob (in either direction)
until the desired shutter speed 'clicks' into position under red arrow
head indicator. The Selector may also be set for intermediate shutter
speeds between markings except between 1 sec. - B - X - 1250.
[ed. note - 1-B-X-1250 range across top of dial, other speeds 1 second to
1250th second may be continuously set...]
C. The numerals represent shuter speeds of B, 1 sec., 1/2, 1/4, 1/8,
1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1250, and X. 'X' represents
1/50th second and is the fastest shutter speed with which X-type
(electronic) flash units may be used (see Using Flash). 'B' stands for
Bulb and is used for manual exposures beyond 10 seconds (see XIE) as well
as for automatic exposures up to 10 seconds as follows:
Small Photo of Bronica D
D. Automatic exposures from 2 to 10 seconds are made by setting the Speed
Selector to 'B'. Now, release the lock for the Calibrated Timer Dial by
sliding it in the direction of the white arrow, and simultaneously rotate
the Calibrated Timer Wheel until the desired interval is directly over
the red arrow head. Remove finger from lock as soon as Timer Dial is
free to rotate. (See Note on preceding pages for changing exposure after
Timer Wheel is set.)
Shutter Speeds; Changing Timer
[page 32]
Making the Exposure
Having advanced the film, wound the shutter, selected the 'taking'
aperture and shutter speed, and having focused the lens, you are now
ready to make the exposure.
A. If the metal dark-slide had not been previously withdrawn, it is
necessary to do so at this time. The Bronica cannot be 'fired' with the
dark-slide in position. It must be completely removed. Simply pull on
the wire handle until the slide is withdrawn.
Note: The dark-slide need not be re-inserted after the exposure
unless you intend to remove the 'filminder' back.
B. To make the exposure squeeze the body release with the right or left
forefinger, as preferred. You will notice that the image returns to the
viewing screen the instant after the exposure bright and clear as before.
This is the result of two automatic Bronica features: the Instant-Return
Atuomatic Mirror and the Instant-Reopen Automatic Diaphragm.
C. When shooting at speeds slower than 1/15th second, it is recommended
that the Bronica be mounted on a stable tripod or rested on a firm support.
D. For long exposures, it is also advisable to use a cable release. The
body release button is threaded to accommodate such a cable.
E. Whlie the automatic long eaxposure is in operation, and you wish to
shorten the exposure time, push the self-timer lock in the direction of
the arrow at the desired second and the shutter curtain will operate. The
remaining tension in the self-timer is released and returns to '0'
position when the pressure is maintained on the self-timer lock.
Releasing Exposure
Tripod Mounting with Cable Release
[page 33]
Multiple Exposure Knob
XII. Making Double or Multiple Exposures
Your Bronica has bulit-in protection against inadvertent double exposure,
as there is a synchronous action between the winding of the film and
setting of the shutter. However, there are times when deliberate double
exposures may be desired and the Bronica has made provision for this.
A. Having made one exposure, and wishing to make another on the same
(exposed) film frame, turn the Double Exposure Setting 1/4 turn clockwise
rotating the milled ridges, from Black A to red D.E.
[ed. note: photo shows control with A and D.E. markings]
B. As you now rotate the transport knob, only the shutter will wind, the
film will not advance. You may now make the double exposure.
C. As the exposure is made, the Double Exposure Setting automatically
returns to normal or A position. It must be reset to D.E. for each
exposure to be made on a previously exposed film.
Removing Lens
XIII. Interchanging Lenses
Your Bronica interchanges lenses quickly and easily. The normal 75mm
lens, the 50mm wide angle and 135mm telephoto are equipped with
quick-change 1/6-turn bayonet mounts.
A. To remove bayonet mounted lens, hold lens front in the right hand with
thumb on milled ridges of Lens Bayonet Lock.
B. Press Bayonet Lock with thumb, and simultaneously twist lens to the
left (counterclockwise) 1/6 turn. Remove lens.
C. To mount lens, insert lens into focusing tube, lining up the red dots
on lens ring and focusing tube. Twist the lens mount to right (clockwise)
until Bayonet Lock snaps closed.
D. The longer than 180mm Nikkor telephoto lenses with preset apertures
can be mounted on the larger bayonet outside the focusing tube.
Inserting Lens
[page 34]
Note: The inside of the Bronica focusing tube is threaded (diameter 57mm,
pitch 1 mm) in order to accept any lens you now have. The distance from
the foremost front edge of focusing tube to the film emulsion is 102.0 mm.
Flashbulb Unit
XIV. Using Flash
Your Bronica is internally synchronized at shutter speeds:
B and 1 to X (1/50th) sec. for use with X-type speedlights.
All speeds through 1/1250 sec (except X) for use with FP-type
(focal-plane) flash bulbs
B and 1 to 1/250 sec. for use with M-type bulbs
B and 1 to 1/15 sec. for use with F-type bulbs
The Bronica flash terminal accepts standard connecting cords, or the
bayonet mount and accessory adapter may be used to secure the unit to th
camera. This provides a positive cordless connection to the flash terminal.
A. Secure flash unit to Bayonet Flash Gun, Bracket Arm and plug-in
connecting cord into socket on Flash Gun Bracket Arm.
B. Insert Bayonet Flash Gun Bracket Arm into Bayonet Flash Mount on
camera and rotate until Gun Bracket Arm snaps lock in position desired.
This makes positive electrical contact. The bayonet adapter may be
mounted to the camera at angles suitable for either direct or bounce flash.
C. To remove flash unit, pull knurled ring on sleeve of Bayonet Flash Gun
Bracket Arm (toward flash unit) and rotate 1/4 turn in either direction
and remove.
Note: The flash terminal socket on the Bayonet Flash Gun Bracket
Arm has a lock collar to prevent the DC cord-tip from slipping out.
Rotate collar a few turns counterclockwise, insert tip and tighten collar
by turning clockwise.
Flash Bracket
Timer Delay Flash Mounting
[page 35]
XV. Using the Bronica Neck Strap
The shoulder strap supplied with your Bronica serves two purposes. One,
it provides a safe and convenient means for carrying the camera, and two,
it helps steady the camera during exposure, especially with long focus
lenses. You will note that when the strap is attached, the camera hangs
lens down. This position proved most convenient and comfortable. It also
serves to protect the lens.
A. The shoulder strap is equipped with a coupling connector at each end.
Place these coupling connectors over the Camera Strap Studs on each side
of the camera and press. The strap is now securely attached to the
camera.
B. To remove the strap, lift or raise the metal wings on each Camera
Strap Stud, and simultaneously lift off the connectors.
C. As an aid to steadying the camera during exposure, first adjust the
length of the strap until the camera is at a comfortable distance for
focusing and viewing. During the exposure draw downward on the camera so
that the strap is strained and taut. This will greatly minimize the
effects of hand vibration.
Camera Strap and Mounting Studs
Camera Position when Hanging From Strap
[page 36]
XVI. Using a Tripod With Your Bronica
The Bronica is equipped with a standard 1/4-20 tripod head, in addition,
there is also a Bayonet Tripod Mount which provides a firmer support and
a faster and more convenient means for attaching and detaching the camera
from a tripod. An accessory tripod bayonet mount adapter is available for
this purpose.
A. Screw tripod head securely into tripod head on adapter, and tighten.
B. Rotate outer knurled ring in the arrow direction marked 'FREE' as far
as it will go. This will cause red dots to meet.
C. Place bayonet mount on camera into adapter with metal pin toward front
of camera and entering tripod head.
D. When camera is firmly seated on adapter, rotate knurled ring in arrow
direction marked 'FIX'.
E. To remove camera from tripod, simply rotate ring to 'FREE' and lift
camera. To attach camera, set Bayonet Mount into adapter and rotate ring
to 'FIX'.
Note: Because the Bronica features an interchangeable film system,
which lengthens the size of the camera, it is necessary to keep the
center of gravity in mind and use a firm and durable tripod. Furthermore,
when you release the shutter with the camera on a tripod, place your
left hand on top of the 'Filminder' back to slightly steady the camera.
Ball Joint Tripod Mounting
Tripod Adapter Mounting
[page 37]
XVII. The Neutral Clutch De-Jamming Screw
Your Bronica is a sturdy, fool-proof, precision instrument. Yet, if
handled incorrectly or improperly, it may jam. One instance in which this
may occur is where an attempt is made to change the shutter speed while
the Calibrated Timer is running down for a delayed action exposure; the
others are where the shutter curtains or mirror is interfered with during
exposure, or the last tip of the leader paper is inadvertently rolled
into shutter curtains while being wound up after the roll of film has
been exposed. In the even your Bronica does jam, you can put it into
operation as follows:
A. Insert a fine correct sized screwdriver into the Neutral Clutch
De-jamming Screw and turn to the right (clockwise) as far as it will go
and, at the same time, press the lever near the gear situated on the back
side of the camera body (not on the back of the 'filminder' back). This
will instantly release the mechanism.
B. Now turn the screw back (counterclockwise) to its original position
and your Bronica is ready for use again.
Note: When operating the Neutral Clutch De-Jamming Screw, under no
circumstances should the Double Exposure Setting be set at D.E. However,
if it should be set at D.E., it must first be released by using a very
fine forceps to carefully pull out the lever situated beneath the right
side of the camera body. This will instantly return the Double Exposure
Setting from D.E. to A. Then follow the above mentioned directions A and B.
From time to time, new accessories and new information concerning your
Bronica will be announced and made available. To be kept advised of this
information, be sure to return your Bronica Registration promptly. Your
name and address will be placed on our mailing list.
Screwdriver and De-jamming Screw Closeup
Printed in Japan.
[page 38]
BRONICA MECHANISM ACTION DIAGRAM
