The Leica M3 isn’t just a camera — it’s a masterpiece of precision and craftsmanship, celebrated as one of the most beloved analog rangefinder cameras in history. From legendary photographers to aspiring artists, this mechanical marvel has captured hearts for decades.
What makes the M3 so special? Its precise engineering, intuitive handling, and access to a stellar lineup of high-quality lenses. But perhaps most importantly, its unparalleled reliability. Unlike today’s instant-gratification digital photography, the Leica M3 invites you to slow down, focus, and immerse yourself in the process.
For many young photographers, the M3 is a bridge back to the roots of the art form. There’s a unique magic in waiting for the darkroom to reveal your work — a far cry from the flood of instant images we scroll through daily. It’s about rediscovering the joy of deliberate creation, when every shot counts.
In a world overwhelmed by billions of digital snapshots, the Leica M3 stands as a reminder of photography’s essence. It’s a challenge and a teacher, demanding both technical skill and artistic vision. So, whether you’re rekindling a love for analog or diving in for the first time, this iconic camera is your ticket to a deeper, more meaningful photographic journey.
Hover over the hotspots with your mouse to explore the different parts of the camera and learn about their functions.
Hover over the hotspots with your mouse to explore the different parts of the camera and learn about their functions.
A. Taking the Picture
1. Remove lens cap. (If lens is a collapsible model, extend and lock).
2. Set lens aperture (11) and shutter speed (4).
3. View subject through finder eyepiece (20) and compose picture within the bright-line frame. Focus lens on most important subject area by turning lever (9) until the two ran gefinder images fuse into one.
4. Release shutter (2) with steady, gentle pressure — do not jab!
5. Work advance-lever (1) to prepare LEICA for next shot. Train yourself to do this im mediately after each exposure so that you’re always ready for the next — and frequently unexpected — situation.
B. Changing Lenses
1. Depress bayonet mount lock ing button (8), rotate lens to the left, and lift out.
2. Gently insert new lens into mount aperture so that red dot near base of lens (6) lies opposite red dot on camera mount near locking button (8), and turn to the right until lock engages with audible “click”.
C. Film Loading
1. Turn baseplate locking key (22) to “auf — open”, and remove. Place camera upside-down with lens towards you, and swing open hinged back (25). Withdraw take-up spool (which automatically resets film counter (3) to two marks before “0”).
2. Push end of film leader under spring of take-up spool, hold ing film in left hand, take-up spool in right, with both pro jecting knobs pointing up. Be sure that perforated film edge lies flat against upper take-up spool flange.
3. Press cassette and take-up spool into camera as shown by diagram engraved on inner body cover-plate. Do not pull out more film than is needed!
4. Check that teeth of transport sprocket properly engage film perforations. If not, work transport lever slightly forward until sprockets engage.
5. Advance film by two frames to bring counter (3) to “0”. The LEICA is now ready to shoot.
6. Set film type and speed on indicator (23).
D. Unloading an Exposed Film
1. Set reversing lever (5) to “R”.
2. Pull rewind knob (16) up and turn in direction of arrow until a slight resistance is felt and overcome with an extra one or two turns. The film is now completely rewound and free of the take-up spool.
3. Open baseplate and remove film cassette.
