Manual for CONTESSA 35

Taking Horizontal Pictures: Hold the camera securely in your right palm, with your thumb on the back and index finger on the shutter release. Your left hand supports the camera, with your thumb and middle finger. The left index finger operates the lens focusing ring. For steadiness, touch your elbows to your body. For longer exposures, rest elbows on a support. Use your left eye for focusing, as it allows you to keep your right eye open. The shutter is released with the right index finger.

Taking Vertical Pictures: The grip and finger positions are similar to horizontal shooting. You can hold the camera with either hand from above and focus with either eye. Crucially, avoid moving the camera during exposure. Practice operating the camera beforehand. For rapid shooting, keep the camera at your eye and wind the film with your left hand without lowering the camera.