[Leica] some quick q's from a new user

[Steve King <stking@duke.edu>]

Hi Folks -- I'm sure y'all are inundated with
questions from new users, but I'd appreciate some
help.

Last week, I took a deep breath and purchased a well-used
M6 classic and 50mm f2 Summicron from KEH. I'd been
using a Contax G1; loved the lenses, but finally couldn't
stand the automation, the finder and...the "gadgetry vibe",
for lack of better expression. While it's far too early
to profess that I'm a believer...my, these ARE nice cameras,
aren't they? :)

Anyway. Long story longer: I'm headed on trip to the mountains
(CO.,US) tomorrow, and am intent on packing the M6. I neglected
to purchase a lens cap, however. Normally I use hoods, at
least with my SLR's, but I don't have that, either. Is
there any sort of household cap, y'all are familiar with, that
might serve as a make-shift lens cap for a 50mm Summicron?
The camera will be jammed in a small, cheap belt-pack, when
not being used, and I'm sortta loathe not to protect the
lens surface (though it's fairly tough?).

Second, I'm still not quite sure what doesn't/doesn't drain
the batteries. If I leave the shutter speed set to something
other than "B", but nothing touches the shutter-release...
Are my batteries still draining?

Third, for shooting against the snow (eg, ski slopes),
what sort of metering compensation is generally recommended?
The "usual"? Say +1.5/2EV? I'm a bit confused on how the meter
works -- it's something of a large spot meter?

The ergonomics of the focus-tab on the lens are new to me.
I've found it most "natural" to hold my left hand (I'm
right-eyed/handed) as if shooting a handgun, sideways, with the
camera resting on the 2nd,3rd and 4th fingers, and the
index finger pushing and pulling on the serrations of
the tab. It's a bit awkward, but I assume I'll get used to
it. Is this the fairly orthodox "grip"? Or is there the
super-secret M6 method? :)

Many thanks; I've enjoyed what I've read so far, since
turning on this list, and the terrific photographs!

Steve King



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