We wish you a great deal of fun and success taking photographs with your new Leica Q3. Please read this manual thoroughly to fa- miliarize yourself with the full scope of functions your camera has to –...
Please read the chapters “Legal information”, “Safety remarks”, and “General information” before using your camera for the Please contact Leica Customer Care or visit the Leica Camera AG first time. Knowledge of the content will prevent inadvertent website for information on the extensive range of Leica replacement damage to the product, possible injuries and other risks.
Leica Camera AG. To that extent, Video that was encoded by a consumer in accordance with the Leica Camera AG reserves the right to changes and errors. The im- AVC Standard within the scope of personal use and/or which the...
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Specific regional approvals for this device can be found in the cam- informative documentation. Due to the amount of creativity that era menu. has gone into its design, we ask for your understanding that Leica ▸ Select in the main menu Camera Information ...
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English Declaration of Conformity (DoC) “Leica Camera AG” hereby declares that this product is in compliance This device contains electrical and/or electronic components which with the basic requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 2014/53/EU.
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• Appropriate measures must be taken to ensure security and pro- • Please read the important notes on specific functions of Leica tect against disruptions to the systems in place where devices or FOTOS on p. 228.
SAFETY REMARKS irreparable damage. This component must only be cleaned with a dry cloth (in system cameras). • Use a cotton or linen cloth instead of a microfiber cloth from an GENERAL INFORMATION optician's (synthetic) when cleaning the contacts. Make sure to discharge any electrostatic charge by deliberately touching •...
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Leaked fluid can catch fire! of the camera. • The use of other chargers not approved by Leica Camera AG can cause damage to the batteries – and in extreme cases – cause RECHARGEABLE BATTERY serious or life-threatening injuries.
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• Do not drop or bend memory cards as this will cause damage and • The use of incompatible flash units with your Leica Q3 may result result in the loss of stored data. in irreparable damage to the camera and/or the flash unit.
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IMPORTANT NOTES ON CHARGING VIA USB / WIRELESS CHARGING • Use a switching adapter with a max. 100 W output or less, which complies with the USB-PD standard. Ensure compliance with the safety standards IEC62368-1 (ES1, PS2-compliant – 60 V or less, 100 W or less).
Please contact your pants pocket, as they will attract lint and dust, which could then dealer, the Leica representative in your region or Leica Camera be accidentally introduced into the camera. AG if the problem persists.
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• We recommend formatting the memory card from time to time, • Please note that Leica Camera AG does NOT accept liability for as fragmented residual data from deleted files may block some of direct or consequential damage due to the manipulation or de- the storage capacity.
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Leica Q3. As digital cameras have many functions that are controlled electronically, improvements and enhancements to the functions can be installed on the camera at a later date. Leica releases so-called firmware updates at irregular intervals. Cameras are always supplied ex works with the latest firmware installed or you can download the latest version from our website yourself and transfer it to your camera.
In addition to your statutory warranty rights regarding your retailer, you will receive an additional Leica Camera AG product warranty valid from the date of purchase from an authorized Leica retailer. Previously, the product warranty was included in the packaging with the product.
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LEICA Q3 HDMI output USB-C output Main switch Shutter button LENS “SUMMILUX 28 f/1.7 ASPH.” Shutter-speed dial Thumbwheel Alignment point for macro function Thumbwheel button Macro ring Strap lugs Focus ring Accessory shoe Aperture ring Microphone Thread protection ring Self-timer LED / AF assist lamp...
DISPLAYS IN REVIEW MODE All displays/values refer to the displayed image. The images displayed on the LCD panel and in the viewfinder are identical. 18 20 PHOTO STATUS SCREEN ACTIVATED Capture Assistants 1/8000 12500 999-9000 IN SHOOTING MODE All displays/values refer to the actual settings. 18 20 INFO 22:45...
Focal length Bluetooth (Leica FOTOS) ® Remaining storage capacity Geotagging Automatic storage of the shooting location (Exif data) Battery capacity Icon for marked picture Menu section PHOTO File name Menu sections VIDEO File number of the image shown Light balance...
VIDEO IN PLAYBACK MODE All displays/values refer to the displayed video. STATUS SCREEN IN RECORDING MODE All displays/values refer to the actual settings. 47 50 DISPLAYS ▸ VIDEO...
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Exposure compensation value Focus mode Autofocus metering method Microphone sensitivity ( Microphone Gain Color rendering ( Video Style Leica Look User profile Exposure metering method White balance mode Resolution / Frame rate Leica FOTOS Favorites menu / Main menu Stabilization activated Indicates for video recording in progress DISPLAYS ▸ VIDEO...
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CHARGE STATUS INDICATOR ON THE LCD PANEL The battery charge status is displayed in the status screen and in the header line at the top right. Display Charge status Approx. 80 – 100% Approx. 60 – 79% Approx. 40 – 59% Approx.
PREPARATION PREPARING THE CHARGER Use the mains cable with the matching regional plug to connect the Please read the chapters “Legal information”, “Safety remarks”, and charger to mains electricity. “General information” before using your camera for the first time. Knowledge of the content will prevent inadvertent damage to the product, possible injuries and other risks.
CHARGING THE BATTERY CHARGE STATUS INDICATORS ON THE CHARGER The camera is powered by a lithium-ion battery. INSERTING THE BATTERY IN THE CHARGER The status LED indicates a correct charging process. Display Charge status Charge time* flashes green Battery is charging CHARGE Approx.
CHARGING VIA USB INSERTING/REMOVING THE BATTERY The rechargeable battery in the camera can be automatically ▸ Ensure that the camera is switched OFF (see p. 38) charged when the camera is connected to a computer or another suitable power source via USB cable. INSERTION Factory setting: On ...
REMOVAL INSERTING/REMOVING THE MEMORY CARD The camera will save exposures to an SD (Secure Digital), SDHC (High Capacity) or SDXC (eXtended Capacity) memory card. Notes • SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards are available from various sup- pliers in a range of sizes and with differing read/write speeds. Memory cards with high storage capacities and high read/write speeds offer quick storage and rendering.
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INSERTION ▸ Ensure that the camera is switched OFF (see p. 38) OPENING THE COVER OVER THE MEMORY CARD SLOT ▸ Push the memory card into the slot with the contacts pointing to- wards the LCD panel until you hear and feel it clicking into place ▸...
Unscrew the lens hood in counter-clockwise direction (Fig. 1) • A matching lens front cap E49 (Order No. 14001) is available as ▸ Screw on the thread protection ring (Fig. 2) an optional accessory for use of the camera without a lens hood: https://store.leica-camera.com PREPARATION ▸ ATTACHING/DETACHING THE LENS HOOD...
DIOPTER SETTINGS The viewfinder has a diopter setting function with a range between -4 and +2 diopter to allow glasses wearers the use of the camera without eyeglasses (diopter compensation). ▸ Push the diopter wheel into its groove until you hear an audible click •...
CAMERA OPERATION SWITCHING THE CAMERA OFF CONTROL ELEMENTS MAIN SWITCH The main switch switches the camera on and off. SWITCHING THE CAMERA ON Note • The function (see p. 65) deactivates the camera Auto Power Off automatically if no operation occurs within a preset time. Use the main switch to deactivate the camera if this function is Off ...
SHUTTER BUTTON 2. Press down fully – Shutter release • The data is then transferred to the memory card. – Starting a video shooting – Starting a preselected self-timer delay time – Starting a continuous shooting or interval shooting Notes •...
SHUTTER-SPEED DIAL THUMBWHEEL The shutter-speed dial has no stop, which means it can be turned in either direction from any position. It will click at each engraved position and for intermediate values. Intermediate positions outside the click positions must not be used. Please read the section “Ex- posure”...
THUMBWHEEL BUTTON DIRECTIONAL PAD/CENTER BUTTON – Applying menu settings DIRECTIONAL PAD – Direct access to menu functions – Menu navigation – Accessing the submenu – Setting selected menu items/functions – Scrolling through the gallery – Shifting the focus frame CENTER BUTTON –...
PLAY BUTTON/MENU BUTTON LCD PANEL PLAY BUTTON – Displaying most important current settings – Activation and deactivation of the (continuous) review mode – Quick access to some menus – Return to full-screen display – Touch control MENU BUTTON – Accessing the menu (incl. status screen) –...
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FOLDING OUT THE SCREEN Aligning the screen The screen can be folded out and up or out and down. A convenient ▸ Once folded out, the screen can be rotated around its center axis feature for taking pictures from a very low or very high perspective. to se the desired angle The screen folds out in two steps.
LCD PANEL (TOUCH SCREEN) TOUCH CONTROL* In shooting mode In review mode “tap” Shifting the AF frame and focusing Selecting images (while Touch AF is activated) “double tap” Resetting the AF frame Enlarging/reducing viewed images “swipe” Scrolling through the gallery Shifts the enlarged image section “horizontal swipe”...
MENU CONTROL MENU SECTIONS The following menu sections are available: Status Screen, Main Menu Favorites CONTROL ELEMENTS The following elements are used for menu control. Status screen: – quick access to the most important settings Favorites – your custom list (see p. 58 for details on how to manage this list) •...
Settings and functions with global effect are: – Digital Zoom – User Profile – Capture Assistants – Play Mode Setup – Display Settings – Leica FOTOS – Format Card – Camera Settings MAIN MENU – Camera Information – Language – Reset Camera ...
SWITCHING MENU SECTIONS The status screen will always be displayed as the first menu section. The top level of the menu is organized into “pages”, which are dis- played in the header line: Status screen, poss. Favorites menu (up to 2 pages), and several sections of the Main menu. You can switch between menu sections by scrolling through the pages.
STATUS SCREEN Notes • Where touch control is not possible or not desirable (e.g. in EVF The status screen offers an overview of the most important infor- mode), the status screen can alternatively be controlled via the mation regarding the current camera status and active settings. directional pad, center button, thumbwheel and the thumbwheel It furthermore allows direct access to important settings.
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SELECTING SETTINGS ACCESSING A STANDARD SUBMENU These menus behave as if they were accessed from within the main Settings can be selected in various ways from within the status menu (see p. 52). Touch control is therefore unavailable. From screen. The setting types vary from menu to menu. there, you return to the status screen and not to the next higher ▸...
FAVORITES MENU SUBMENU The favorites menu offers quick access to the most frequently used There are various types of submenus available. The following pages menu items. It can contain up to 11 menu items. These can be as- describe their operation. signed individually (see p.
MENU NAVIGATION LINE BY LINE NAVIGATION (Function/function option selection) SCREEN BY SCREEN NAVIGATION ▸ Press the directional pad up/down Scrolling forward ▸ Turn the thumbwheel ▸ Press the button (repeatedly if needed) MENU (to the right = down, to the left = up) •...
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SHOW SUBMENU GO BACK ONE STEP (Return to the superordinate menu item) ▸ Press the center button/thumbwheel button ▸ Press the directional pad left • This option is only available for list-type submenus. ▸ Press the directional pad to the right CONFIRM SELECTION GO BACK TO TOP MENU LEVEL ▸...
SUBMENU SELECTING A BUTTON (ICON/FUNCTION BUTTON) Using button control KEYBOARD/NUMBER PAD ▸ Press the directional pad in the relevant direction • The currently active button will be highlighted. ▸ Press the center button/thumbwheel button ▸ Turn the thumbwheel • The currently active button will be highlighted. •...
MENU BAR SCALE MENU Using button control Using button control ▸ Press the directional pad left/right ▸ Press the directional pad left/right ▸ Turn the thumbwheel ▸ Turn the thumbwheel Using touch control Using touch control ▸ Select the desired function directly or swipe ▸...
DATE/TIME MENU COMBI MENU (IMAGE PROPERTIES) “Back” button (Exit without saving) Moving to the next settings field “Parameter” button ▸ Press the directional pad left/right “Setting” button Setting values “Confirm” button (Save and exit) ▸ Press the directional pad up/down The operation is slightly different, depending on whether the settings ▸...
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Using button control Navigating between buttons ▸ Press the directional pad left/right • An active button is indicated by a red frame. Applying setting ▸ Press the directional pad up/down • The button toggles directly between each of the options. ▸...
USER-DEFINED OPERATION Using touch control ▸ Tap the desired button FAVORITES MENU • All available options are displayed for the buttons “Parameter” and “Setting”. Assign your most frequently used menu items to a favorites menu • The “Parameter” button displays the currently set value for (up to 11 items) for quick and easy access.
DIRECT ACCESS TO MENU FUNCTIONS MANAGING THE FAVORITES MENU You can assign specific menu functions to the following operating ▸ Switch to the desired mode (photo or video) elements (function buttons) for extra quick direct access to menu ▸ Select in the main menu Customize Control ...
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CHANGING AN ASSIGNMENT THUMBWHEEL ASSIGNMENT ▸ Switch to the desired mode (photo or video) Factory setting: Auto ▸ Press the function button longer In factory settings, the thumbwheel function depends on the active exposure mode. However, the thumbwheel can also be assigned •...
USER PROFILES CREATING PROFILES Saving settings/creating a profile. This camera allows the permanent storage of any menu settings, to e.g. access them quickly and easily for recurring conditions/im- ▸ Create custom settings for the desired functions via menu control age objects. The camera will also save the currently selected mode ▸...
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RENAMING PROFILES APPLYING/ACTIVATING PROFILES Factory setting: Default Profile ▸ Select in the main menu User Profile ▸ Select in the main menu ▸ Select User Profile Manage Profiles • A list of profile names is displayed. ▸ Select Rename Profiles ▸...
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DELETING PROFILES EXPORTING/IMPORTING PROFILES TO/FROM THE MEMORY CARD ▸ Select in the main menu User Profile ▸ Select Manage Profiles ▸ Select Export Profiles Import Profiles ▸ Confirm the selection Notes • When importing and exporting, all profile slots are transferred to the card, i.e.
CAMERA BASIC SETTINGS DATE/TIME The two menu items appear automati- Language Date & Time DATE cally when switching the camera on for the first time, after a reset to factory settings (see p. 224), or after a firmware update. You can choose one of 3 options for the display sequence. ▸...
TIME ZONE POWER SAVE MODE (STANDBY MODE) ▸ Select in the main menu The camera will switch to the power-saving standby mode after a Camera Settings preset time to extend battery life if this function is activated. ▸ Select Date & Time The device has two power save levels.
LCD PANEL/VIEWFINDER SETTINGS LCD PANEL/EVF USE You can preset the situations in which EVF and LCD panel should The camera comes equipped with a 3” liquid crystal color panel, be used. The displays appearing on screen and in the electronic which is protected by a glass cover made of extremely hard and viewfinder are identical.
BRIGHTNESS ▸ Select in the main menu Display Settings ▸ Select EVF-LCD You can adjust brightness for best visibility in various lighting conditions. Brightness is set individually for the LCD panel and the ▸ Select the desired setting viewfinder. Selection occurs via key control or touch control. Note •...
COLOR RENDERING AUTOMATIC LCD PANEL AND EVF SHUTDOWN Color rendering can also be adjusted. Brightness is set individually The LCD panel and EVF deactivate automatically to save power. The for the LCD panel and the viewfinder. Selection occurs via key con- time until power off can be set.
ACOUSTIC SIGNALS ELECTRONIC SHUTTER SOUND Factory setting: Off Some functions can be acknowledged with acoustic signals. The following special functions can be configured separately: ▸ Select in the main menu Camera Settings – Electronic shutter sound ▸ Select Acoustic Signal –...
STILL IMAGE SETTINGS ▸ Select in the main menu Photo File Format ▸ Select a format FILE FORMAT DNG DNG + JPG JPG Notes Choose the JPG format or the standardized raw data format JPG • The standardized DNG format is used for the storage of raw (= digital negative).
RESOLUTION ▸ Select in the main menu JPG Settings ▸ Select JPG Resolution ▸ Select the desired resolution DNG RESOLUTION Three different resolutions (number of pixels) are available for When the Digital Zoom function (see p. 125) is selected, then im- shooting in raw data format (DNG).
One of the many advantages of digital photography is that it is very 3:2 (e.g. 1:1). The relevant cropped section will be displayed. Images easy to change essential image properties. The Leica Q3 offers two made in JPG format are saved with the relevant aspect ratio. DNG...
FILM STYLE HIGHLIGHT/SHADOW Depending on the exposure selected and the dynamic scope of The image properties of JPG files can be changes slightly using the object, some details in brighter or darker areas may no longer several parameters. These are summarized in pre-configured Film be clearly visible.
COLOR PROFILE MONOCHROME PROFILE 3 pre-configured color profiles are available: Two pre-configured monochrome profiles are available: Factory setting: – Standard Monochrome – – Standard Monochrome High Contrast – Vivid ▸ Select in the main menu JPG Settings – Natural ▸ Select Film Style ...
These parameters can be adjusted for all available profiles ( Saturation Leica Looks offer a selection of professionally aligned, pre-defined only for color profiles). See p. 56 for details on menu operation. profiles. These can be conveniently loaded to the camera via Leica FOTOS. ▸ Select in the main menu JPG Settings ...
AUTOMATIC OPTIMIZATION Under certain conditions, noise reduction will always be active as long as the function is enabled. That includes shots taken with the T function, as well as long-term exposure frames with shutter NOISE REDUCTION speeds of ≥ +8 s. In all other cases, noise reduction depends on a combination of fac- NOISE REDUCTION FUNCTION FOR LONG-TERM EXPOSURE tors (specifically ISO setting, exposure time, and sensor tempera-...
IMAGE STABILIZATION NOISE REDUCTION IN JPG IMAGES Except when high sensitivities are used, noise is luckily negligible. The less favorable the lighting conditions during shooting, the slower Nevertheless, noise reduction is a component of data processing will be the required shutter speeds for correct exposure. Visual when JPG files are generated.
DARK AREA OPTIMIZATION (IDR) iDR FUNCTION (Intelligent Dynamic Range) function allows an optimization iDR DYNAMIC RANGE of the darker areas. Object details become much clearer. This func- tion will only affect images in JPG format. The contrast range of an object comprises all levels of brightness from the brightest to the darkest point in the image.
• A memory card should be formatted again in the camera if it was formatted in another device, e.g. a computer. • Contact your retailer or Leica Customer Care for assistance if the memory card cannot be formatted/overwritten (see p. 270).
DATA STRUCTURE Notes • When using memory cards that were not formatted with this camera, the file numbering will begin with 0001 again. Should the FOLDER STRUCTURE memory card already contain a file with a higher number, then The files (= photos) on the memory cards are saved in automatically numbering will be continued from that number.
EDIT FILE NAMES ADDING COPYRIGHT INFORMATION This camera allows you to enter letters and other characters as a ▸ Select in the main menu Camera Settings copyright mark for your image files. ▸ Select Edit File Name You can enter up to 20 characters of information under 2 headings •...
Location information will be continuously updated as long as the beforehand. camera is connected to Leica FOTOS. The Bluetooth function of the • It will take a few seconds for the Bluetooth connection to estab- camera and the mobile device must therefore remain enabled to lish.
Notes • We recommend using a card reader for the transfer of large files. Data can be conveniently transferred to mobile devices via Leica • The USB connection must not be interrupted while data is being FOTOS. Alternatively, a card reader or USB cable can be used for transferred, as the computer or the camera could otherwise the transfer.
PRACTICAL DEFAULT SETTINGS Positioning the AF frame ▸ Tap the LCD panel in the desired position TOUCH AF 1/8000 12500 Touch AF allows a direct placement of the AF frame. Factory setting: Touch AF ▸ Select in the main menu Focusing ...
TOUCH AF + SHUTTER BUTTON AUXILIARY DISPLAYS The combination allows a direct placement of Touch AF + Release You can select a number of other displays in addition to the standard the AF frame for immediate recording. information contained in the header and footer to adapt the screen image to your needs.
INFO DISPLAYS IN SHOOTING MODE SHOW AVAILABLE Select one of the three available display options. INFO BARS ▸ Press the center button The header and footer lines show the currently active settings and • The display cycles through the display options. exposure values.
FOCUS PEAKING Note • Focus peaking is based on subject contrast, i.e. differences be- This assist function highlights the edges of in focus subject elements tween light and dark. As a result, high contrast subject elements in color. The color can be user-specified. The sensitivity can be addi- could be marked, even if they are not completely in focus.
LEVEL GAUGE The integrated sensors of the camera show its orientation. These indicators ensure exact camera orientation along the longitudinal and transverse axes of critical objects, e.g. architecture. Deviations in relation to the longitudinal axis (i.e. when the camera is tilted up or down in the direction of view) are indicated by a short line in the center of the image ( ).
CLIPPING HISTOGRAM The Clipping display marks very bright image areas. This function is Histogram represents the brightness distribution in the image. The a very easy and exact tool for checking the correct exposure set- horizontal axis shows the graduated values from black (left) through ting.
TEMPORARY ACTIVATION/DEACTIVATION OF INDIVIDUAL MF ASSIST FUNCTIONS FUNCTIONS The following assist functions can be activated/deactivated tempo- AF ASSIST LAMP rarily: The integrated AF assist lamp allows operation of the AF system in – Focus peaking unfavorable lighting conditions. This lamp comes on while metering –...
ACOUSTIC AF CONFIRMATION You can set an acoustic confirmation signal for successful focus metering in AF mode. Factory setting: Off ▸ Select in the main menu Acoustic Signal ▸ Select AF Confirmation ▸ Select On ▸ Select Volume ▸ Select Low ...
In addition to single frame Interval between the shootings ( Interval shooting, the Leica Q3 offers a number of other exposure modes. Delay time ( Countdown Please read the relevant sections for information about functional-...
The following AF modes are available: AFs AFc Intelligent AF Your Leica Q3 allows automatic as well as manual focusing. There The currently selected AF mode is shown in the header line. are 3 operating modes and 4 metering methods available for AF Factory setting: Intelligent AF ...
AUTOFOCUS METERING METHODS MULTI-FIELD METERING Several focus area are detected automatically. This function is par- The AF mode offers various metering methods for focusing. A suc- ticularly useful for snapshots. cessful focus setting is identified by a green frame, an unsuccessful one is shown in red.
ZONE TRACKING With this metering method, subject sections are recorded with a co- This field metering variant helps in the capture of moving objects. herent group comprising 5 x 5 fields. This function combines some The focus on the object in the focus frame is continuously adjusted, security for snapshots with the option of aiming at larger objects once it is detected.
START POSITION FOR TRACKING PERSON DETECTION (FACE DETECTION) Factory setting: Center Person detection is an expansion of the face detection feature. In You can specify the starting point for tracking. addition to biometric patterns of faces, the camera also detects body patterns and uses them for focusing.
AF QUICK SETTING When face detection detects an eye, the focus will be on that eye. Should more than one eye be detected, then the user can choose The AF Quick Setting allows quick changes to the focus frame size the eye to focus on.
MF ASSIST FUNCTIONS Adjusting the enlargement function ▸ Press the center button ENLARGEMENT IN AF MODE • The image section toggles between magnification factors. You can access the enlargement function independent of focusing Changing the position of the enlarged section for a better assessment of the settings.
SHIFTING THE AF FRAME AF ASSIST LAMP All AF metering methods permit shifting the AF frame before focusing. The integrated AF assist lamp allows operation of the AF system in unfavorable lighting conditions. This lamp comes on while metering ▸ Press the directional pad in the relevant direction is performed, provided the function is activated.
MANUAL FOCUSING (MF) MF ASSIST FUNCTIONS Focusing manually may in some situations be a better choice than The following assist functions are available in MF mode. autofocus. FOCUS PEAKING – the same setting is used for several shoots – it would take longer to use the metering memory lock function This assist function highlights the edges of in focus subject elements –...
ENLARGEMENT IN MF MODE Adjusting the enlargement function ▸ Press the center button The larger the details of the object are shown, the better you can assess their sharpness and the more accurately you can focus. • The image section toggles between magnification factors. This function can be automatically activated during manual focusing Changing the position of the enlarged section or can be accessed independently.
MACRO FUNCTION ACCESS VIA THE FUNCTION BUTTON You can access the enlargement function independent of focusing The working range for the focus setting can be switched quickly and for a better assessment of the settings. easily from the standard focus range (30 cm to infinity) to the macro function must be assigned to one of the function Magnification ...
ISO SENSITIVITY AUTOMATIC SETTING The camera automatically adjusts the sensitivity to ambient bright- The ISO setting covers a range between ISO 50 and ISO 100 000, ness and/or to the configured shutter-speed/aperture combination. allowing you to adapt to the relevant situation as required. In conjunction with aperture-priority mode, this function extends There is more leeway for the use of preferred shutter-speed/ap- the range for automatic exposure control.
DYNAMIC ISO SETTING LIMITING SHUTTER SPEED RANGES Factory setting: Auto The thumbwheel can be configured to allow manual ISO settings ▸ Select in the main menu Auto ISO Settings in real time (see p. 60). The settings will cycle through all values available in the menu.
WHITE BALANCE AUTOMATIC CONTROL/FIXED SETTINGS – : for automatic control, which delivers neutral results in Auto In digital photography, White Balance ensures neutral color rendering most situations in any light. White Balance relies on the setting made in the camera, –...
MANUAL SETTING VIA METERING Performing measurement ▸ Shutter release Gray Card • The measurement is taken. This metering variant captures all color hues in the metering field and uses these to calculate a mean gray value. Cancelling measurements ▸ Select in the main menu White Balance ...
SHUTTER TYPE peratures occurring in real life and within which you can adapt color The Leica Q3 comes equipped with a mechanical shutter and a rendering to any light color and your personal preferences with purely electronic shutter function. The electronic shutter expands incredible detail.
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EXPOSURE METERING METHODS APPLICATION The classic shutter sound of the mechanical shutter conveys an The following exposure metering methods are selectable. auditive feedback. It is well suited for long-term exposures, as well Factory setting: Multi-Field as for shots of moving objects. The electronic shutter function allows photography with an open ap- Spot erture in very bright due to very fast shutter speeds.
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SPOT HIGHLIGHT-WEIGHTED This metering method is concentrated exclusively on a small area This method considers the entire image field. The exposure value in the center of the image. The metering fields are joined together will, however, be adjusted to very bright subject elements. That pre- when the exposure metering method is combined with the AF vents the overexposure of bright subject elements without having...
EXPOSURE MODES SELECTING A MODE The four operating modes are activated automatically via the follow- There are four exposure modes available to adjust the rendering of ing setting combinations: the object or to create the desired pictorial composition: – Program AE mode (P) Setting via Setting via –...
FULLY AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE SETTING – P CHANGING THE PRESET SHUTTER SPEED AND APERTURE COMBINATIONS (SHIFT) PROGRAM AE MODE – P Changing the preset values using the Shift function combines the reliability and speed of fully automatic exposure control with the The program AE mode facilitates fast and fully automatic photogra- opportunity to vary the speed/aperture combination selected by phy.
SEMI-AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE SETTING – A/S SHUTTER-PRIORITY MODE – S Shutter-priority mode will set exposure automatically according APERTURE-PRIORITY MODE- A to the manually selected shutter speed. It is therefore particularly suitable for pictures of moving objects, where the sharpness of the Aperture-priority mode sets the exposure automatically according movement depicted is a critical picture composition element.
MANUAL EXPOSURE SETTING – M Displays on the light balance: The following manual settings for shutter speed and aperture are a Correct exposure good choice: – to create a special image mood that can only be achieved with a Underexposure or overexposure by the displayed very specific type of exposure value –...
FIXED SHUTTER SPEEDS using the shutter-speed dial: in full increments Your Leica Q3 allows shutter speeds up to 2 minutes in modes using the thumbwheel: fine tuning in 1⁄3 increments S and M (depending on the selected ISO setting). The remaining...
T FUNCTION NOISE REDUCTION Image noise becomes more apparent when using higher sensitivi- In this setting, the shutter remains open after shutter release until ties, particularly on uniform dark areas. Long exposure times may the shutter button is pressed again (ax. 2 min depending on ISO cause severe image noise.
EXPOSURE CONTROL Under certain conditions, noise reduction will always be active as long as the function is enabled. That includes shots taken with the T function, as well as long-term exposure frames with shutter speeds EXPOSURE PREVIEW of ≥ +8 s. The brightness of the screen image mirrors the effects of the select- In all other cases, noise reduction depends on a combination of fac- ed exposure settings when pressing and holding the shutter button...
EXPOSURE LOCK AE-L (AUTO EXPOSURE LOCK) The camera stores the exposure value. The focus can therefore be We often want to arrange important subject elements outside set on another object, no matter which exposure value is selected. the center of the image for reasons of pictorial composition and these elements may sometimes be very bright or very dark.
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EXPOSURE LOCK IN AF MODE Via a function button The metering functions are distributed as follows while the function ▸ Assign the desired memory lock ( ) to AF-L + AE-L AE-L AF-L button is pressed and held: one of the function buttons (see p. 59) ▸...
EXPOSURE COMPENSATION Using thumbwheel control ▸ Select in the main menu Exposure meters are calibrated for a medium gray scale value, Customize Control which matches a standard, i.e. average image object. Should the ▸ Select Wheel Assignment measured image detail not fulfill that requirement, then the a rele- ▸...
SHOOTING MODES • Regardless of how many frames were taken in a series, the last image in the series or the last image saved on the memory card while the saving process is ongoing will be displayed first in both CONTINUOUS SHOOTING review modes.
INTERVAL SHOOTING Getting started ▸ Press the shutter button This camera allows you to automatically capture motion sequences over extended periods of time using the interval shooting function. • The LCD panel will switch off automatically between record- You specify the number of frames, the intervals between shots, and ings.
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Notes unsuccessful. In that case, the camera will not take a picture and • The use of autofocus in interval shooting may result in not all the series will continue with the next interval. The message Some exposures having their focus on the same object. appears on screen.
EXPOSURE BRACKETING You can select the desired number of frames (3 or 5). The exposure difference, which can be set via , can be up to 3 EV. EV Steps Many attractive objects are rich in contrast, which means they have very bright and very dark areas.
SELF-TIMER Notes • appears on the LCD panel if the bracketing function is activated. The self-timer function allows shoot with a preset time delay. We You can watch the effect of the function on screen during shoot- recommend that the camera is placed on a tripod. ing (brighter or darker).
SPECIAL SHOOTING MODES Digital In shooting mode In Review mode Zoom DIGITAL ZOOM Digital Zoom Several other cropped section sizes are available in addition to the 35 mm Summilux 28 f/1.7 ASPH. image sections. These are similar to the focal lengths 35 mm, 50 mm, 75 mm, or 90 mm. A frame appears around the image section on screen, indicating the final image size.
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EFFECT ON THE RESULTING IMAGES JPG IMAGES Only an enlarged cropped section will be displayed and stored for The Digital Zoom will have differing effects on the resulting files, JPG files. The image areas outside the frame are “cropped”. This depending on the selected file format.
SCENE MODE – : Automatic snapshot function for general use AUTO – 9 scene modes, which are designed to accommodate the require- 10 automatic program variants are available under the menu item ments of common object types: . All 10 offer automatically controlled shutter speed Scene Modes ...
PERSPECTIVE CONTROL Notes • In case of large panning angles, the distortion correction needed This assist function displays a frame showing the expected cropped for a complete perspective control would be too extreme. That is section of the image after a correction of the perspective of ver- why this function is automatically skipped or only partially used tical falling lines.
ACTIVE PERSPECTIVE CONTROL This function can only be used in Live View mode. ▸ You may have to activate Live View ▸ Select in the main menu Perspective Control ▸ Select On DETECTED PERSPECTIVE IN LIVE VIEW MODE CORRECTED PERSPECTIVE IN REVIEW MODE PHOTOGRAPHY ▸ SPECIAL SHOOTING MODES...
JPG FORMAT IMAGES PERSPECTIVE CONTROL IN ADOBE LIGHTROOM AND ADOBE ® PHOTOSHOP ® For JPG format images, the correction occurs directly in the camera and only the corrected image is stored. Any image content outside Perspective Control can be done as part of the post-editing process the frame will be lost.
ATTACHING THE FLASH UNIT FLASH EXPOSURE METERING (TTL METERING) In conjunction with system-compatible flash units (see p. 131), the ▸ Switch off the camera and flash unit camera offers a fully automated flash mode, which is also available ▸ Pull off the accessory shoe cover and store it in a safe place in the exposure modes Aperture Priority and Manual.
SETTINGS ON THE FLASH UNIT FLASH MODES Select one of the three available operating modes. Operating mode – Automatic Automatic control by the camera – Manual – Long-term exposure SF 40, SF 60: Automatic camera control, no flash exposure compensation AUTOMATIC FLASH ACTIVATION SF 58, SF 64: That is the default flash mode.
FLASH CONTROL AUTOMATIC FLASH ACTIVATION AT SLOWER SHUTTER SPEEDS (LONG-TERM SYNCHRONIZATION) The settings and functions described in the following sections only This mode ensures appropriately exposed, brighter dark backgrounds apply to settings and functions available in this camera and in sys- and bright foreground.
FLASH RANGE A flash is usually fired at the start of exposure ( Start of Exposure This may result in apparent contradictions, e.g. the image of a vehi- The usable flash range depends on the aperture and sensitivity val- cle being overtaken by its own light trail. This camera alternatively ues set manually or calculated by the camera.
Flash Exp. Compensation • The submenu displays a scale with a red setting mark. The compensation function are used (e.g. Leica SF 58 or Leica SF 60). function is deactivated if the value is set to A compensation value set on the camera would in that case have 0 ...
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FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY ▸ Switch on the flash unit ▸ Set the desired guide number control mode (e.g. TTL or GNC = Guide Number Control) on the flash unit ▸ Switch the camera on ▸ Set the desired exposure mode, shutter speed and/or aperture setting •...
REVIEW MODE CONTROL ELEMENTS IN REVIEW MODE There are two completely independent review functions available: CONTROL ELEMENTS ON THE CAMERA – short-term rendering directly after shooting ( Auto Review – normal review mode, in which the stored mages can be viewed and managed for any length of time The switchover between shooting and review mode, as well as most other actions can be completed using gesture or key control.
DIRECT ACCESS IN REVIEW MODE CONTROL ELEMENTS ON THE LCD PANEL The function buttons can have individual assignments in review On-screen control elements generally function by intuitively by mode as well. touch. Many can also be selected by pressing one of the three buttons to the right of the LCD panel ( button, center button, In factory settings, the function buttons have the following assign-...
STARTING/EXITING REVIEW MODE Using button control ▸ Press the button PLAY • The last captured image appears on the screen. Using touch control • The following message appears if the inserted memory card ▸ Swipe up or down does not contain any image data: No valid picture to play ...
SELECTING/SCROLLING THROUGH IMAGES CONTINUOUS ▸ Swipe to the left or right and hold the finger on the edge of the The images are visually arranged in a horizontal reel. The sorting screen will be strictly chronological. When the end of an image series is reached, the display automatically jumps back to the first image in •...
INFO DISPLAYS IN REVIEW MODE DISPLAYING ASSIST FUNCTIONS The display of histogram and clipping in review mode can be set In factory settings, images are displayed without header and footer separately from the relevant settings for the shooting mode. information for unimpeded viewing. ▸...
PICTURE SERIES REVIEW UNINTERRUPTED PLAYBACK OF THE PICTURE SERIES The images in a group can be played back from start to finish with- Serial and interval shootings often produce a large number of indi- out interruption. This may be very helpful to get a better idea of the vidual images.
JUMPING TO A SPECIFIC PICTURE IN THE GROUP SAVE AS A VIDEO The frame series can additionally be saved as a video. ▸ Tap the playback status bar in the desired position ▸ Starting and stopping review • The control elements appear. ▸...
CROPPED SECTION ZOOM SCROLLING THROUGH THE INDIVIDUAL PICTURES OF A SERIES You can zoom in to any section of an image for closer inspection. The images in a picture series can also be viewed individually. You have a five-step zoom factor available via the thumbwheel, Switch to the manual scrolling function to do so.
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Using button control ▸ Turn the thumbwheel (to the right: increase magnification, to the left: decrease magni- fication) ▸ Press the thumbwheel button • Toggles between the third zoom increment at the tap position and standard full screen view. ▸ Press the directional pad to move the enlarged section anywhere ▸...
DISPLAYING MULTIPLE IMAGES AT ONCE Using button control ▸ Turn the thumbwheel to the left The camera offers an overview function in which several thumbnail • 12 thumbnails are shown at the same time. Another turn on images can be viewed on one screen, which makes it easier to find the thumbwheel increases the number of displayed thumbnails a specific image.
TAGGING/RATING OF IMAGES Navigating between images ▸ Press the directional pad in the relevant direction Images can be marked as favorites to find them quicker or to sim- plify the later deletion of multiple images. Tagging can be done in regular view mode or in the overviews.
DELETING IMAGES DELETING INDIVIDUAL IMAGES ▸ Press the FN button 1 ( There are several methods available to delete images: • The Delete screen appears. – deleting individual images – deleting multiple images – deleting all images without a icon/ranking ▸...
DELETING MULTIPLE IMAGES Cancelling a deletion and returning to normal review mode ▸ Select the “Go back” icon Several images can be marked in a Delete overview with twelve (tap the icon directly or press the button) thumbnails and can then be deleted all at once. This overview can PLAY be reached in two ways.
DELETING ALL IMAGES Any number of images can be selected in this view. ▸ Press the button Selecting images for deletion MENU ▸ Select in the play menu Delete All ▸ Select an image ▸ Press the center button/thumbwheel button ▸...
DELETING UNRATED IMAGES DELETING PICTURE SERIES Picture series can be displayed in groups for quick deletion. The ▸ Press the button MENU pictures will have to be displayed in groups. ▸ Select in the play menu Delete Unrated ▸ Select in the main menu Play Mode Setup ...
PREVIEW OF LATEST IMAGE SLIDE SHOW Photos can be displayed automatically directly after they are taken A slide show function is available in review mode, in which the to e.g. check the success of the shots quickly and easily. A duration saved images are shown automatically in series.
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STARTING THE SLIDE SHOW ▸ Press the button MENU ▸ Select in the play menu Slideshow ▸ Select the desired setting Play All Pictures only Videos only • The slide show will start automatically with the selected images and runs in an endless loop until it is exited. ENDING THE SLIDE SHOW ▸...
VIDEO SETTINGS VIDEO FORMAT The following combinations of resolution and frame rate are available: FILE FORMAT Video can be recorded in the file formats MOV or MP4. Frame rate Resolution Various combinations of resolution and frame rate can be configured depending on the file format chosen.
AVAILABLE RESOLUTIONS You can choose resolutions with the associated aspect ratios. Frame rate Resolution File Format Available resolutions 8192 x 4320 ✓ ✓ ✓ 23.98 fps 7680 x 4320 MOV + MP4 ✓ ✓ ✓ 25 fps 4096 x 2160 ✓...
IMAGE PROPERTIES SETTING THE VIDEO FORMAT Factory setting: file format MOV, resolution 4K, frame rate 29.97 fps The Leica Q3 offers two functions for the adjustment of video recordings: user-defined profiles, and professionally Film Style adapted, pre-defined profiles. Leica Looks ...
VIDEO STYLE HIGHLIGHT/SHADOW Depending on the exposure selected and the dynamic scope of The image properties of video recordings can be changes slightly the object, some details in brighter or darker areas may no longer using several parameters. These are summarized in pre-configured be clearly visible.
COLOR PROFILE CUSTOMIZING VIDEO PROFILES 3 pre-configured color profiles are available: These parameters can be adjusted for all available profiles ( Sat- only for color profiles). See p. 56 for details on menu uration – Standard operation. – Vivid ▸ Select in the main menu –...
Medium low Low Off Selecting a memory slot Notes Leica Looks can be easily downloaded to the camera via Leica • The Autofocus function and manual focusing adjustments generate FOTOS. noise that may be picked up in the recording. ▸...
– Recordings in MP4 format – Recordings in 8 bit – Recordings in slow motion • The following functions are unavailable when Video Gamma used: – iDR – ISO 50 ISO 100 ISO 200 – Video Style Leica Looks VIDEO SETTINGS ▸ VIDEO GAMMA...
HLG SETTINGS SETUP/MANAGEMENT OF LUT PROFILES Sharpness and saturation can be set. The factory setting is a median You can import custom LUT profiles to the camera to optimally value in both cases. meet your LUT preview expectations. 0 ▸ Select in the main menu Video Settings ...
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Importing a custom LUT profile EXAMPLE In the following, the assignment shown below will be used for all ▸ Download or export an LUT profile as a CUBE file subsequent figures. Two profile slots for internal camera display ▸ Give the file a meaningful name (file name max. 8 characters, file (LCD panel/EVF) are taken, all others are unused.
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Freeing a memory slot Notes • You can only import LUT profiles with the file ending “.cub”. ▸ Select a profile • Files with the ending “.cube” will not be recognized. These can, • The “Delete” dialog appears. however, simply be renamed before saving them to the SD card. •...
USING LUT PROFILES When toggling between the two output channels, the setting for the selected memory slot will remain unchanged. Since it is possible CHANGING THE OUTPUT CHANNEL that different profiles are saved on the same slot depending on the The user can choose to apply the LUT profile for output via HDMI or output channel, it is possible that a different profile or an unused in the camera (LCD panel/EVF).
SELECTING THE LUT PROFILE The list of selectable LUT profiles depends on the currently selected output channel (camera/HDMI). The channel is displayed next In addition to the two pre-configured LUT profiles, three more mem- to the menu item . When the channel is set to , the ory slots are available for custom LUT profiles.
AUTOMATIC OPTIMIZATION DARK AREA OPTIMIZATION (IDR) DYNAMIC RANGE VIDEO STABILIZATION The contrast range of an object comprises all levels of brightness The stabilization function helps to reduce blurring for handheld from the brightest to the darkest point in the image. All levels of recordings.
iDR FUNCTION Note • The optimization of darker areas will slightly reduce differentiation (Intelligent Dynamic Range) function allows an optimization iDR in very bright areas. of the darker areas. Object details become much clearer. Without iDR With iDR You can specify beforehand if and to what extent you want to opti- mize darker areas ( ).
• The lower status LED will flash during that process. formatted in another device, e.g. a computer. • Contact your retailer or Leica Customer Care for assistance if the memory card cannot be formatted/overwritten (see p. 270). VIDEO SETTINGS ▸ DATA MANAGEMENT...
DATA STRUCTURE Notes • When using memory cards that were not formatted with this camera, the file numbering will begin with 0001 again. Should the FOLDER STRUCTURE memory card already contain a file with a higher number, then The files (= shots) on the memory cards are saved in automatically numbering will be continued from that number.
EDIT FILE NAMES DATA TRANSFER Data can be conveniently transferred to mobile devices via Leica ▸ Select in the main menu Camera Settings FOTOS. Alternatively, a card reader or USB cable can be used for ▸ Select Edit File Name ...
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Notes • We recommend using a card reader for the transfer of large files. • The USB connection must not be interrupted while data is being transferred, as the computer or the camera could otherwise “crash” and irreparable damage could occur on the memory card.
PRACTICAL DEFAULT SETTINGS Positioning the AF frame ▸ Tap the LCD panel in the desired position TOUCH AF 1/8000 12500 Touch AF allows a direct placement of the AF frame. Factory setting: Touch AF ▸ Select in the main menu Focusing ...
AUDIO OUTPUT TOUCH AF + SHUTTER BUTTON The combination allows a direct placement of Touch AF + Release HDMI OUTPUT WITH/WITHOUT SOUND the AF frame for immediate recording. ▸ Select in the main menu Focusing HDMI output is available with or without audio. ▸...
AUXILIARY DISPLAYS SHOW AVAILABLE You can select a number of other displays in addition to the standard INFO BARS information contained in the header and footer to adapt the screen The header and footer lines show the currently active settings and image to your needs.
GRID ZEBRA The grids divide the image frame into multiple fields. They facilitate The Zebra display marks very bright image areas. This function is a pictorial composition and an exact camera orientation. very easy and exact tool for checking the correct exposure setting. Overexposed areas will appear white with moving black stripes.
FOCUS PEAKING SENSITIVITY Factory setting: Medium This assist function highlights the edges of in focus subject elements in color. The color can be user-specified. The sensitivity can be addi- ▸ Select in the main menu Focusing tionally adjusted. ▸ Select Focus Assist ...
LEVEL GAUGE The integrated sensors of the camera show its orientation. These indicators ensure exact camera orientation along the longitudinal and transverse axes of critical objects, e.g. architecture. Deviations in relation to the longitudinal axis (i.e. when the camera is tilted up or down in the direction of view) are indicated by a short line in the center of the image ( ).
TEMPORARY ACTIVATION/DEACTIVATION OF INDIVIDUAL HISTOGRAM FUNCTIONS Histogram represents the brightness distribution in the image. The horizontal axis shows the graduated values from black (left) through The following assist functions can be activated/deactivated tempo- gray to white (right). The vertical axis corresponds to the number of rarily: pixels at each brightness level.
MF ASSIST FUNCTIONS ACOUSTIC AF CONFIRMATION You can set an acoustic confirmation signal for successful focus metering in AF mode. Factory setting: Off ▸ Select in the main menu Acoustic Signal ▸ Select AF Confirmation ▸ Select On ▸ Select Volume ...
• As only part of the sensor area is used in video recordings, the relevantly effective focal length is increased, which slightly re- duces the size of the image sections. • The screen image of video recordings with the Leica Q3 appears with corresponding frame depending on the selected resolution and aspect ratio.
START/END VIDEO RECORDING Using button control ▸ Press the function button with the function assignment Photo - Video • In the factory setting, that will be the FN Button 2 ( Note • The camera switches to the most recently set photo or video mode.
DUSPLAY AND OPERATION VIA USB-PTP USING EXTERNAL FOCUSING ACCESSORY (LIKE GIMBALS) Your Leica Q3 allows automatic as well as manual focusing. There Leica Q3 allows connecting an optional Gimbal like DJI Ronin RS2 are 3 operating modes and 4 metering methods available for auto- via USB-PTP.
AUTOFOCUS MODES CONTROLLING THE AUTOFOCUS The following AF modes are available: AFs AFc Intelligent AF TOUCH AF The currently selected AF mode is shown in the header line. During video recordings, Touch AF facilitates a more intuitive focus Factory setting: Intelligent AF ...
AUTOFOCUS METERING METHODS MULTI-FIELD Several focus area are detected automatically. The AF mode offers various metering methods for focusing. A suc- cessful focus setting is identified by a green frame, an unsuccessful SPOT/FIELD one is shown in red. Factory setting: Multi-Field ...
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TRACKING START POSITION FOR TRACKING Factory setting: Center This field metering variant helps in the capture of moving objects. The focus on the object in the focus frame is continuously adjusted, You can specify the starting point for tracking. once it is detected. Center of the screen Center ...
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PERSON DETECTION (FACE DETECTION) When face detection detects an eye, the focus will be on that eye. Should more than one eye be detected, then the user can choose Person detection is an expansion of the face detection feature. In the eye to focus on.
AF QUICK SETTING MF ASSIST FUNCTIONS The AF Quick Setting allows quick changes to the focus frame size ENLARGEMENT IN AF MODE in some AF metering methods. The screen image will remains visible continuously while settings You can access the enlargement function independent of focusing are being adjusted.
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Adjusting the enlargement function AF ASSIST LAMP The AF assist lamp is not active in video mode. ▸ Press the center button • The image section toggles between magnification factors. ACOUSTIC AF CONFIRMATION Changing the position of the enlarged section You can set an acoustic confirmation signal for successful focus ▸...
SHIFTING THE AF FRAME MANUAL FOCUSING (MF) All AF metering methods permit shifting the AF frame before focus- Manual focusing offers more control and is less prone to incorrect ing. Continuous focusing during recording (with ) tracks the AF AFc settings than the AF modes.
MF ASSIST FUNCTIONS ENLARGEMENT IN MF MODE The larger the details of the object are shown, the better you can The following assist functions are available in MF mode. assess their sharpness and the more accurately you can focus. FOCUS PEAKING This function can be automatically activated during manual focusing or can be accessed independently.
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Adjusting the enlargement function ACCESS VIA THE FUNCTION BUTTON You can access the enlargement function independent of focusing ▸ Press the center button for a better assessment of the settings. • The image section toggles between magnification factors. The function must be assigned to one of the function Magnification ...
MACRO FUNCTION ISO SENSITIVITY The working range for the focus setting can be switched quickly and The ISO setting covers a range between ISO 50 and ISO 100 000, easily from the standard focus range (30 cm to infinity) to the macro allowing you to adapt to the relevant situation as required.
AUTOMATIC SETTING LIMITING SETTING RANGES A max. ISO value can be set, which will then limit the automatic The camera automatically adjusts the sensitivity to ambient bright- setting range ( ness and/or to the configured shutter-speed/aperture combination. Max. ISO value In conjunction with aperture-priority mode, this function extends the A max.
DYNAMIC ISO SETTING WHITE BALANCE The thumbwheel can be configured to allow manual ISO settings In white balance ensures neutral color rendering in any light. White in real time (see p. 60). The settings will cycle through all values Balance relies on the setting made in the camera, which light color available in the menu.
AUTOMATIC CONTROL/FIXED SETTINGS MANUAL SETTING VIA METERING – : for automatic control, which delivers neutral results in Auto Gray card most situations This metering variant captures all color hues in the metering field – Various fixed presets for most frequently encountered light sources: and uses these to calculate a mean gray value.
Performing measurement DIRECT SETTING OF THE COLOR TEMPERATURE ▸ Shutter release Values between 2000 and 11,500 K (Kelvin) can be set directly. • The measurement is taken. That gives you a very wide range, which covers virtually all color temperatures occurring in real life and within which you can adapt Cancelling measurements color rendering to any light color and your personal preferences ▸...
EXPOSURE SPOT This metering method is concentrated exclusively on a small area in the center of the image. The metering fields are joined together EXPOSURE METERING METHODS when the exposure metering method is combined with the Spot The following exposure metering methods are selectable. AF metering methods .
EXPOSURE MODES HIGHLIGHT-WEIGHTED This method considers the entire image field. The exposure value You can choose one of four video shooting modes: will, however, be adjusted to very bright subject elements. That pre- – Program AE mode (P) vents the overexposure of bright subject elements without having –...
SELECTING A MODE FULLY AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE SETTING – P The four operating modes are activated automatically via the follow- PROGRAM AE MODE – P ing setting combinations: The exposure is controlled by an automatic shutter speed and aper- Setting Setting ture setting.
SEMI-AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE SETTING – A/S SHUTTER-PRIORITY MODE – S Shutter-priority mode will set exposure automatically according to APERTURE-PRIORITY MODE- A the manually selected shutter speed. The selected shutter speed will be maintained for the duration of the recording. Aperture-priority mode sets the exposure automatically accord- ing to the manually selected aperture.
MANUAL EXPOSURE SETTING – M SETTING SHUTTER SPEEDS The following manual settings for shutter speed and aperture are a The shutter speed is set in two steps. good choice: using the shutter-speed dial: in full increments – to maintain constant exposure settings between multiple recordings using the thumbwheel: fine tuning in 1⁄3 increments –...
EXPOSURE CONTROL Using thumbwheel control ▸ Select in the main menu Customize Control EXPOSURE COMPENSATION ▸ Select Customize Wheel Exposure compensation values can be set in the range ±3 EV in ▸ Select Exp. Comp. 1⁄3 EV increments (EV: Exposure Value). ▸...
SPECIAL SHOOTING MODES Digital In shooting mode In Playback mode Zoom DIGITAL ZOOM Digital Zoom Several other cropped section sizes are available in addition to the 35 mm Summilux 28 f/1.7 ASPH. image sections. These are similar to the focal lengths 35 mm, 50 mm, 75 mm, or 90 mm. A frame appears around the image section on screen, indicating the final image size.
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FULLY AUTOMATIC VIDEO RECORDING In fully automated video mode, exposure is controlled by the camera just like for recordings in automatic program mode (P). Additionally, all other exposure-relevant factors like ISO values and exposure metering are controlled automatically. ▸ Select in the main menu Scene Mode ...
PLAYBACK MODE CONTROL ELEMENTS IN PLAYBACK MODE Playback mode is used to display and manage the stored recordings. CONTROL ELEMENTS ON THE CAMERA The switchover between shooting and playback mode, as well as most other actions can be completed using gesture or key control. Please see p.
DIRECT ACCESS IN PLAYBACK MODE CONTROL ELEMENTS ON THE LCD PANEL The function buttons can have individual assignments in playback On-screen control elements generally function by intuitively by mode as well. touch. Many can also be selected by pressing one of the three but- tons to the right of the LCD panel.
INITIATE/EXIT PLAYBACK MODE SELECTING/SCROLLING THROUGH IMAGES The images are visually arranged in a horizontal reel. The sorting Using touch control will be strictly chronological. When the end of an image series is reached, the display automatically jumps back to the first image in ▸...
INFO DISPLAYS IN PLAYBACK MODE CONTINUOUS ▸ Swipe to the left or right and hold the finger on the edge of the Video recordings are always rendered with header and footer and screen with on screen. No other auxiliary displays will appear. •...
DISPLAYING MULTIPLE IMAGES AT ONCE Using button control ▸ Turn the thumbwheel to the left The camera offers an overview function in which several thumbnail • 12 thumbnails are shown at the same time. Another turn on images can be viewed on one screen, which makes it easier to find the thumbwheel increases the number of displayed thumbnails a specific image.
TAGGING/RATING OF RECORDINGS Navigating between images ▸ Press the directional pad in the relevant direction Images can be marked as favorites to find them quicker or to simplify the later deletion of multiple images. Tagging can be done in regular view mode or in the overviews.
DELETING RECORDINGS DELETING INDIVIDUAL RECORDINGS ▸ Press the FN button 1 ( There are several methods available to delete recordings: • The Delete screen appears. – deleting individual recordings – deleting multiple recordings – deleting all recordings without a icon/ranking ▸...
DELETING MULTIPLE IMAGES Cancelling a deletion and return to the normal playback mode ▸ Select the “Go back” icon Several recordings can be marked in a Delete overview with twelve (tap the icon directly or press the button) thumbnails and can then be deleted all at once. This overview can PLAY be reached in two ways.
DELETING ALL RECORDINGS Any number of recordings can be selected in this view. ▸ Press the button Selecting recordings for deletion MENU ▸ Select in the play menu Delete All ▸ Select an image ▸ Press the center button/thumbwheel button ▸...
SLIDE SHOW DELETING UNRATED RECORDINGS ▸ Press the button MENU A slide show function is available in playback mode, in which the saved images are shown automatically in series. Choose to see all ▸ Select in the play menu Delete Unrated images ( ), only photos ( ) or only videos (...
VIDEO PLAYBACK STARTING THE SLIDE SHOW appears on screen if you have selected a video file in play- back mode. ▸ Press the button MENU ▸ Select in the play menu Slideshow ▸ Select the desired setting START PLAYBACK Play All Pictures only ...
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ACCESSING THE CONTROL ELEMENTS PAUSE PLAYBACK The control elements are displayed when playback is stopped. ▸ Tap anywhere on the LCD panel Using touch control ▸ Press the center button ▸ Tap anywhere on the LCD panel RESUMING PLAYBACK 1/8000 12500 1/8000 12500...
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NAVIGATE TO ANY POINT IN THE FILE END PLAYBACK While the control elements are visible: Using touch control ▸ Tap the Playback status bar at the desired position While the control elements are visible: ▸ Tap the “Go back” icon 1/8000 12500 1/8000...
SETTING THE VOLUME VIDEO EDITING Using touch control Using touch control While the control elements are visible: ▸ Tap the volume icon 1/8000 12500 ▸ Tap the volume bar at the desired position 1/8000 12500 INFO 12MP 8234 INFO 12MP 8234 18:26 Using button control...
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CUTTING Using button control ▸ Press the center button to confirm the cuts ACCESSING THE VIDEO EDITING FUNCTION • The menu appears. Video Trimming ▸ Press the button MENU ▸ Select a function from the menu Video Trimming • The video editing screen appears, the left cutting mark is high- Save as new ...
Yes No ▸ Confirm or reject the reset of the LUT profiles ( Yes No ▸ Confirm or reject the reset of the Leica Looks profiles ( Yes No • The message appears. Please Restart the Camera ▸ Switch the camera off and on again Notes •...
Leica will notify you of any new updates, once you have registered your camera. Users of Leica FOTOS will also be automatically noti- fied about firmware updates for their Leica cameras.
EXECUTING A FIRMWARE UPDATE PREPARATION ▸ Fully charge and insert the rechargeable battery Any interruption of a running firmware update may cause serious ▸ Any stored firmware files on the memory card must be removed and irreparable damage to your equipment! •...
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• Date & time, as well as the preferred language will have to be set up again after the restart. Relevant prompts will appear on screen. • These settings will be applied automatically if the update is loaded via Leica FOTOS. OTHER FUNCTIONS ▸ FIRMWARE UPDATES...
LEICA FOTOS SELECTING A WI-FI BAND Leica Q3 supports the use of various Wi-Fi frequencies in a number The camera can be controlled remotely using a smartphone/tablet of regions. PC. This will require an installation of the Leica FOTOS app on the mobile device.
These settings are also available via the menu item Leica FOTOS The following screen appears after you have selected the language. ▸ Connect the camera and mobile device via the Leica FOTOS cable ▸ Follow the instructions provided by the Leica FOTOS app Starting the connection wizard ▸...
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VIA WI-FI ON THE MOBILE DEVICE ▸ Launch the Leica FOTOS app IN THE CAMERA ▸ Select “Add Camera” ▸ Select the camera model ▸ Select “Scan the QR code” ▸ Scan the QR code • Connection is being established. The process may take a few seconds.
Leica FOTOS The Leica FOTOS Cable makes connectivity particularly easy and quick. IN THE CAMERA ▸ Connect the camera and mobile device via the Leica FOTOS ▸ Select in the main menu Leica FOTOS cable ▸...
Wait until the QR code appears on the LCD panel item Leica FOTOS The following screen appears after you have selected the language. ON THE MOBILE DEVICE ▸ Launch the Leica FOTOS app ▸ Select “Add Camera” ▸ Select the camera model ▸...
▸ Select Pairing ON THE MOBILE DEVICE ▸ Wait until the QR code appears on the LCD panel ▸ Launch the Leica FOTOS app ON THE MOBILE DEVICE ▸ Select the camera model ▸ Launch the Leica FOTOS app ▸...
Eco mode Off Bluetooth (Geotagging) Automatic On / Off Wi-Fi Always On The connection to the Leica (Data transfer) The connection to the Leica FOTOS app is established automat- (Remote control) FOTOS app is permanently active ically as needed, and disconnected after ≥...
Any interruption of a running firmware update may cause serious (where enabled). Wi-Fi is similarly permanently activated. This and irreparable damage to your equipment! option offers the fastest access to Leica FOTOS and therefore an excellent user experience. You will therefore have to take particular note of the following, when carrying out a firmware update: ▸...
• Accidental remote camera activation may result in unwanted mobile device. A list of available functions and instructions for their use can be found in the Leica FOTOS app. pictures taken and excessive power consumption. • A third-party device can – provided is has been paired with REMOTE CAMERA ACTIVATION the camera –...
CARE/STORAGE • Empty you camera bag completely if it ever gets wet during use. Your equipment might otherwise be subjected to moisture and We recommend the following if the camera will not be used for an tanning residue released by the moist leather. extended period of time: •...
SENSOR • All mechanical bearings and sliding surfaces on your lens are lubricated. Make sure to periodically move the focus ring and the PIXEL MAPPING aperture ring to prevent seizing if the lens will not be used for an extended period of time. Defective pixels may appear on the image sensor of digital cameras over time.
Problem Possible causes to check Troubleshooting suggestions Battery issues Battery is depleted too quickly Battery too cold Warm the battery (e.g. in pants pocket) and only insert directly before use Battery too hot Allow battery to cool down LCD panel or EVF set too bright Reduce brightness Power save mode deactivated Activate...
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Menus and displays Electronic viewfinder is dark EVF brightness is set too low Set the EVF brightness Display language is not English Select in the menu English Language Electronic viewfinder is dark Switchover between EVF and LCD incorrectly set Select a suitable setting Viewfinder is out of focus Check the diopter setting and adjust as needed The LCD panel is to dark or too bright/not...
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The camera won’t release/shutter button is Memory card is full Replace the memory card deactivated/shooting not passible The memory card is not formated Reformat the memory card (Caution: Loss of data!) The memory card is write protected Deactivate the write protection on the memory card (small lever on the side of the memory card) Dirt on the memory card contacts Clean the contacts with a soft cotton or linen cloth...
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Camera does not focus Desired object part is too close to the camera Select Macro mode Desired object part is very far away Exit Macro mode Object not suitable for AF Use Focus lock or select manual focus AF frame is framed in red with activated AF; Focusing was unsuccessful Try to focus again images out of focus...
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Images are damaged or missing The memory card was removed while the readiness Never remove the memory card while the readiness indicator was flashing indicator is flashing. Charge the battery. The memory card formatting is faulty or the card is Reformat the memory card damaged (Caution: Loss of data!)
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No images are displayed No memory card inserted Insert a memory card The photos were taken with another camera Transfer the files to another device to view them Images cannot be displayed File name was changed on a PC Use suitable software for file transfers from a PC to the camera Video quality Video recordings show flickering/stripes...
MENU OVERVIEW FUNCTION BUTTONS The following control elements are available for direct access (see p. 59). Thumbwheel button FN button 1 FN button 2 Center button LEGEND Accessible via the status Available for the favorites Available for function Factory setting on the screen menu buttons...
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DIRECT ACCESS Function PHOTO VIDEO Page Status Favorites Function buttons Status Favorites Function buttons screen screen Photo - Video Toggle Info Levels 44, 139 Magnification Exposure lock 95, 118 116, 118 AF-L + AE-L AE-L 95, 118 AF-L Toggle Video Gamma 44, 98, 102, 139, 189, Drive Mode ...
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Focus Mode 93, 185 94, 186 AF Mode AF Assist Lamp 87, 100, Focus Assist 101, 178, 101, 192 Auto Magnification Focus Peaking 87, 100, 178, 192 84–85, Touch AF 174–175 Touch AF in EVF 85, 175 96, 187 AF Tracking Start Position Exposure Metering ...
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JPG Settings 71, 74–78 71, 126 JPG Resolution Film Style 72–75 72, 75, 158, Leica Looks 78, 162, iDR 110–113, Scene Mode 127, 200–206 77, 168 Optical Image Stabilization Photo Aspect Ratio 128–129 Perspective Control Shutter Type 107, 115 134–136 Flash Settings ...
Wheel Assignment 60, 119, 120, 138, Auto Review Flash Exp. Compensation 158, 200 Video Format / Resolution MOV MP4 160–169 Video Settings Microphone Gain 158–167 Video Gamma 166–167 LUT Profile 158–162 Video Style Video Style Settings 47, 125, Digital Zoom 183, 205 61–63 User Profile ...
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EVF Frame Rate 229–236 Leica FOTOS Format Card 79–170 32, 64–69, Camera Settings 81–83, 172, 228, 239 69, 91, 181 Acoustic Signal MENU OVERVIEW...
DIRECT ACCESS IN REVIEW MODE Function Review (photo)/Playback (video) Page Play Menu Function buttons 44, 139 Toggle Info Levels 139, 209 Rate / Unrate EVF-LCD Zoom (photos only) 44, 139, 209 Delete Single 150, 215 Delete Multi Delete Unrated 152, 217 151, 216 Delete All ...
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Storage ..................238 User-defined operation ..............58 Submenu ..................51 User profiles ................. 61 Switching, mode ............140, 182, 210 Switching off, camera ..............38 Video ...................182, 218 Switching on, camera ..............38 Video format ................156 Sync point .................. 134 Video Gamma ................162 Video mode ................
TECHNICAL DATA 12.4 mm 41.15 mm 51.1 mm 62.7 mm 130.0 mm 75.1 mm TECHNICAL DATA...
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Interfaces File size File size ISO accessory shoe with additional control contacts for Leica flash DNG™: approx. 70 MB, depending on resolution and image content units, HDMI jack Type D, USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type C up to 10 Gbps JPG: depending on resolution and image content Video: max.
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Color depth Color depth MOV 8K (HDMI output without HLG/L-Log and without recording to SD) 29.97 fps 8K 4:2:0 / 8 bit h.265 L-GOP 300 Mbps DNG™: 14 bit 25.00 fps 8K 4:2:0 / 8 bit h.265 L-GOP 300 Mbps JPG: 8 bit 24.00 fps 8K 4:2:0 / 8 bit...
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Autofocus modes Autofocus modes Shutter button Shutter button (autonomously selects , AF set- Two-stage Intelligent AF AFs AFc AFs AFc ting can be saved, optional Touch AF (1st stage: Activation of the camera electronics including autofocus and exposure metering, 2nd stage: Taking the picture) Autofocus metering methods Autofocus metering methods Self-timer...
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Not available everywhere due to country-specific legislation; can be to TTL linear flash mode with HSS-compatible Leica system flash units added via the Leica FOTOS app. Data is written to Exif header of the if sync time is undercut picture files.
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Charger (Leica BC-SCL4) Charger (Leica BC-SCL4) Input: AC 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 0.25 A, automatic switchover; output: DC 8.4 V 0.85 A; manufacturer: Salom Electric (Xiamen) Co., Ltd., Made in China Charging via USB Charging via USB During operation: 9 V/3 A (min. 27 W) With camera switched off: 5 V/1500 mA (2.5 W or greater)
LEICA CUSTOMER CARE Please contact the Customer Care department of Leica Camera AG for the maintenance of your Leica equipment and for help and ad- vice regarding Leica products and how to order them. You can also contact the Customer Care department or the repair service provid- ed by your regional Leica subsidiary for repairs or warranty claims.
LEICA AKADEMIE Have a look at our full seminar program with many interesting work- shops on the topic of photography at: https://leica-camera.com/en-US/leica-akademie LEICA AKADEMIE...
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