What is the Bessa R2A?

The Bessa R2A is a 35mm rangefinder camera manufactured by Voigtländer. It was introduced in 2002 as an improved version of the original Bessa R2. The R2A features a built-in light meter with aperture priority automatic exposure mode, as well as manual exposure mode. It has a bright and clear viewfinder with a 0.7x magnification and a base length of 69.25mm, making it easy to focus accurately. The camera accepts interchangeable lenses with the Leica M mount, allowing photographers to use a wide range of high-quality lenses.

What is the maximum shutter speed of the Bessa R2A?

The Bessa R2A has a maximum shutter speed of 1/2000th of a second. This fast shutter speed allows photographers to capture fast-moving subjects or use wide apertures in bright lighting conditions without overexposing the film.

Does the Bessa R2A have a built-in light meter?

Yes, the Bessa R2A has a built-in light meter. It uses a center-weighted TTL (through-the-lens) metering system to measure the light and provide accurate exposure readings. The light meter is located on the top plate of the camera and can be easily adjusted using the exposure compensation dial.

Can I use different lenses with the Bessa R2A?

Yes, the Bessa R2A accepts interchangeable lenses with the Leica M mount. This allows photographers to use a wide range of high-quality lenses from various manufacturers, including Voigtländer, Leica, Zeiss, and more. The Leica M mount is known for its compatibility and offers a vast selection of lenses for different shooting needs.

Is the Bessa R2A a manual focus camera?

Yes, the Bessa R2A is a manual focus camera. It features a bright and clear viewfinder with a 0.7x magnification, making it easy to focus accurately. The camera has a rangefinder focusing system that allows photographers to align two images in the viewfinder to achieve precise focus. Manual focus gives photographers full control over the focus point and allows for creative focusing techniques.

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Voigtlander Bessa R2A

Name: Voigtlander Bessa R2A
Brand: Voigtlander
Rating: 3.9 (7 reviews)

Rangefinder

35MM

Voigtlander

Germany

Size & Weight

Camera Size for Voigtlander Bessa R2A135.5 x 81 x 33.5 mm
Camera Weight for Voigtlander Bessa R2A430g
Camera Build Material for Voigtlander Bessa R2AAluminium

Focus

Camera Focus Mode for Voigtlander Bessa R2AManual Focus
Camera Focus Type for Voigtlander Bessa R2ARangefinder

Exposure

Camera Shutter Speed Range for Voigtlander Bessa R2A1s – 1/2000s
Camera ISO Speed Range for Voigtlander Bessa R2A25 ISO – 3200 ISO
Camera Exposure Modes for Voigtlander Bessa R2AAperture priority, Manual
Camera Exposure Meter for Voigtlander Bessa R2ACenter-weighted
Camera Viewfinder for Voigtlander Bessa R2A0.68x magnification rangefinder

Lens & Accessories

Camera Lens Type for Voigtlander Bessa R2AInterchangeable Lens
Camera Lens Mount for Voigtlander Bessa R2ALeica M
Common Camera Lenses for Voigtlander Bessa R2A Voigtlander Nokton 35mm F1.4 Voigtlander Heliar 50mm F2 Voigtlander Ultron 28mm F2
Camera Flash for Voigtlander Bessa R2A No Built-In Flash
Camera Common Accessories for Voigtlander Bessa R2A Voigtlander VC Meter II Leica M-mount lenses Soft shutter release button

Battery

Camera Battery Type for Voigtlander Bessa R2A2x LR44
Battery Life for Voigtlander Bessa R2AApprox. 1 year
Battery Replaceable for Voigtlander Bessa R2AReplaceable

Manual

Camera Manual for Voigtlander Bessa R2AShow Manual

Use Cases

Camera Use Cases for Voigtlander Bessa R2A
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Street photography
✈️
Travel photography

Description for Voigtlander Bessa R2A

The Bessa R2A is a 35mm rangefinder camera produced by Cosina. It features a Leica M mount, allowing it to use a wide range of high-quality lenses. The camera has a built-in light meter with center-weighted metering, making it easy to accurately expose your shots. The R2A has a bright and clear viewfinder, making it easy to focus and compose your images. It has a shutter speed range from 1/2000s to 1s, allowing for versatile shooting in different lighting conditions. The camera has a sturdy and durable build, with a metal body and high-quality controls. It is a reliable and compact camera, perfect for street photography and everyday use.

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The Bessa R2A is known for its accurate and reliable metering system, which helps photographers achieve well-exposed images. It also has a quiet shutter mechanism, making it ideal for discreet shooting. The camera has a film advance lever and a rewind crank, allowing for easy film loading and rewinding. It has a hot shoe for attaching external flash units, expanding its capabilities in low-light situations. The Bessa R2A has a manual focus system, giving photographers full control over their focus. Overall, it is a highly regarded rangefinder camera that offers excellent performance and versatility.

Example Photos for Voigtlander Bessa R2A

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Pros and Cons for Voigtlander Bessa R2A

Compact and lightweight design

High-quality build and construction

Accurate and reliable rangefinder focusing system

Bright and clear viewfinder

Compatible with Leica M-mount lenses

No built-in light meter

Manual film advance and rewind

How to Use the Camera Voigtlander Bessa R2A

How to Load Film Voigtlander Bessa R2A

Potential Problems and Fixes for Voigtlander Bessa R2A

Shutter Speed Dial Stiffness

Some users have reported that the shutter speed dial on the Bessa R2A can become stiff over time. Regular use and careful handling can help maintain the smooth operation of the dial.

Viewfinder Clarity

The viewfinder of the Bessa R2A, while generally well-regarded, can sometimes suffer from lack of clarity in certain light conditions. Keeping the viewfinder clean and free from dust can help improve visibility.

Frame Counter Issues

There have been reports of the frame counter on the Bessa R2A not advancing correctly. This is typically a mechanical issue and may require professional repair.

Frequently Asked Questions for Voigtlander Bessa R2A

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