Why Leica?
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Leica have one of the longest historical links with the M Series of rangefinders going all the way back to the first 35mm camera made. I've been shooting on an M10P with a 50mm Summilux-M f/1.4 for the last year. This is one of my favorite camera systems ever. But then there's the Leica SL2-S - how will this stack up in the Leica ecosystem?
Watch more Leica reviews: • Why Leica Monochrom?
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On my channel you will find videos about photography, cinematography, post processing tutorials for Capture One, Lightroom and Photoshop, photo assignments that YOU can participate in, the Artist Series and more. The Artist Series is an ongoing set of videos I produce as documentaries on living photographers. I am extremely passionate about photography and video and my goal in making these videos is to share my passion and enthusiasm with you! Don’t forget to subscribe and make sure to hit the like button and share this video if you enjoyed it!
Ted Forbes
The Art of Photography
2830 S. Hulen, Studio 133
Fort Worth, TX 76109
US of A - Věda a technologie
Couple of things I learned with a Leica:
1. Zone focusing is amazing (and instant). With F8 or smaller, everything that matters in the frame is focused.
2. Sometimes having things out of focus (deliberately or by accident) is beautiful. Look at the work of William Klein or Anton Corbijn.
3. Less is more
Hyperfocal distance. Ahh my 1a. With tri x.
"you don't have to think about things, you just go out and you work on getting the actual image" Basically just described using a modern mirrorless camera like Nikons and Sonys (and not the more manual cameras). You just work on getting the picture and press the shutter button. I like shooting film, i like shooting with a x100v. But most of all I loved shooting manual lenses with a Sony A7ii.
A year ago I bought a Fuji XT-2 based on your review of the ergonomics and absolutely love it. I had gone from a manual Nikon to a digital one and having to depend on menus entirely had totally zapped out the joy of taking photos for me. I would love to see a review focused on that aspect.... i.e. which other cameras have similar ergonomics. I am seriously studying photography right now and can see myself looking for a camera with a bigger sensor in the future. On my list to explore are the Fuji GF cameras and Leica.
My first 35mm was a Yashica Electro 35, which was a rangefinder. It was a great camera. It had a fixed 45mm lens. I still remember that camera fondly.
I like your channel a lot and was nervous about this video. Thanks for not indulging in the mystique. I have an M2 that I like a lot and modern Leicas are certainly fine cameras, but the company seems to be marketing itself almost as a lifestyle brand. And that's fine too, I guess. But as a photography educator I saw so many young photogs derailed into gear whoredom, and the glorification of specific brands is a very powerful influence on folks just starting out. This video is careful not to delve into those depths. Well done!
Can you help me.
It seems alot was ment to be said.
But not much actually said.
From a non L body shooter, this just seemed extremely vague.
I watched it twice.
Maybe I just don't understand the gorgon
@@fepethepenguin8287 I mean, my summation of the Leica issue is that they are great cameras that lend themselves to a certain way of shooting, and I think Art of Photography did well to stick with that angle. A lot of others talk about the "Leica Mystique," as if there is something magical about them that justifies the incredible pricing. There isn't. The viewer of an image won't see the difference. But the photog will FEEL the difference while shooting, and if it's worth it to him to spend the money, wonderful! For me it's generally not . . . although the Q2m is pretty enticing . . .
@@Gribley I was just thinking the other day after visiting Leica's web site. Same subject, same lighting, same mm focal length prime, on the same tripod. Really what would the photos say from the Leica, Sony, Nikon, & Canon of simular mp's look like straight out of camera. Might depend on color & lens quality.
@@thomastuorto9929 I would bet $100 that in a blind test most photographers couldn't tell the difference. And with the adaptability of mirrorless cameras, this doesn't have to be conjecture. Surely someone as tested Leica lenses against others on the same camera . . .
as a new young guy starting out, I have Sony A7R4, Pentax 645D, Sigma SD1, currently thinking about getting Nikon D4, and Fujifilm GFXs, also I take films as well on Toyo 45G with Schineider Apo Symmar, Bronica GS-1 for 120 film, am I being a good boy not been influenced by the force of brand worshiping?
I finally got my first Leica, Q2 monochrome 9 years after getting into photography. I went through various cheaper cameras learned on these systems before working my way up to the Q2 monochrome. Q2M is an extremely specialized tool. Did it make me a better photographer? No. But it definitely helped me achieve me artistic vision better than other cameras - purely because of how I was able to use the Q2M files and the tonality/dynamic range that comes from the sensors. I think its really important to understand your goal and vision as an artist and then work your way backwards to find the camera that fits that need.
I love your videos Ted. I’ve been a Leica shooter for four or five years, starting with the Q then the Q2. I then decided to sell all my Canon gear 5DIV and lenses to get the SL2s and 24-70 and it was the best decision I could have made. The image quality is amazing. I do a lot of monochrome work, and have just made my first book and have my first exhibition coming up. Your videos have helped inspire me.
Love your videos! Very informative to say the least. My first SLR was a Minolta SRT 101 when I was stationed in Japan. It took me, at first, 15 - 30 seconds to compose and take a photo. And during the days of film a person had to really learn how to compose a scene. It was frustrating at first but it taught me to be patient which helped me to become a better photographer.
Started with a Minolta SRT 201 and a Yashicamat 124 G. Picked up a Speed Graphic 4x5 and a Pentax 645 years later. If you ever put a 4x5 negative in an enlarger it’s amazing. I learned a lot from the Minolta days.
I found an old Kodak Retina IIF rangefinder at an antique shop last year. It's a fixed 40mm f/2.8 lens. Got it for a song because it was dirty and was sold as "broken". Just needed a cleaning. I have really enjoyed getting to basics with that.
Like you, after a couple of days using the M10P I got it. Then I added a Type 246 Monochrom which is an absolute joy. However, for those with Leica glass the SL2 has been a revelation. It absolutely brought the 50 Noctilux to life. I recommend you rent one and try it on the Sl2 body and with that wonderful huge bright view finder manual focussing, even with such a shallow depth of field, becomes so much easier and opens up so many creative possibilities. I would love to see you feature something like this, not to be about the gear, but on the creative output it allows you to generate. Always enjoy your channel and content Ted. Regards from the desert. Steve. Dubai.
F3 is my favorite camera of all time also. Had 3 or 4 focus screens, always used split ball screen and the screen with the grid for composition.
Good reminder about cameras being tools first. Now it is also an experience, especially Leica Ms (as R. Gibson may have pointed out), and for some the experience of using a Leica M has no equivalent: the way the design has been refined to match what photographers expect from such a camera, the physical experience of a solid extremely well-built no-frill unobstrusive tool is important in the long run (and makes the difference with the Fuji Xpro series). I wish I had known that earlier as I ended up with Leica Ms anyway after thinking "reasonably" for years in terms of budget. As a result I also ended up paying more and spending a few years without this exceptional tool. But as you rightly mention, it is not for everybody (question of taste, ergonomics, practices). Another positive thing about rangefinders (Leica and Fuji) is the fact that if you use your right eye to look through the viewfinder, your left eye is outside the camera so you can see everything happening in front of you outside the viewfinder, which is impossible with a (D)SLR (in that case your left eye is against the back of the camera).
I have learned rangefinding with an old Zorki 1.. then 4 and I learned alot, and after using my Canon P, it was great! I love to shoot in zones too and with the Leica IIIg its amazing… so quiet and easy to use! I have never used a digital rangefinder, but it also must be a quick gadget to shot. Thank you for your video👏👏
I’ve used the M for about 6 years now and it’s always my go to camera these days. Enjoy your new addition Ted x
I don't envy anymore. I'm happy that you're happy with your Leica cameras. I've returned to my first camera, a "cheap" Yashica FX-2 with a ML 50 mm f/2 lens. A variety of film types have added to the fun. Everything is completely manual, but my memories from the 70s haven't let me down. So far, everything has worked out well. It's brought the joy back to going out for a shoot. It makes me sad that I've spent so much money on digital cameras. Until I put the "cheap" Meike 50 mm f/1.7 z mount on my Z5. It's fun too. It seems that the "cheap stuff" is the fun stuff. Kind of like sweet red wine.
Your experience is part of the journey, right ?
Yes, you are right, sweet red wine is not always the best but some appreciate it ;o)
"Sharpness is a bourgeois concept." - Henri Cartier-Bresson
Thanks for this. Love shooting street with my M2, although it’s been a while. With practice, the camera is pretty much in focus before you raise it to your eye….either because you focus to a predecided distance and then just get yourself that distance from what you want to photograph, or because judging distance becomes second nature and you set the focus when you see your image developing. Either of these means that you are not hanging around…view, shutter, walk…catching what is happening, not someone’s reaction to your presence, if that’s what you want. Autofocus doesn’t get a look in.
I spent 9 years with a Nikon D7000 from college until last year. When I got my very own D7000, used with a Tamron 16-50mm f/2.8 (couldn’t afford the Nikon version which was also used), I did it like the lens that I was using because most of the time it would miss focus and after a while I decided to just operate the camera in manual focus mode only with the exception of the 50mm 1.8 that I used. The 16-50mm was my most used lens and I learned how to manual focus using that lens so I could get clear images my way which often times I didn’t make the mark but I practiced more and more. While my new camera has amazing autofocus with native and third-party lenses, whenever I adapt vintage lenses on my A7iii it feels like how I was using my D7000 even with focus peaking.
I was already an (film) M-shooter before I bought my MP240 last year, so it wasn’t an entirely new experience. Or was it? Shooting a digital M came as a shock for me to be honest, and without trying to sound like a drama queen, it was a bit like a life saver to me, especially in the age of covid, with the long repetitive walks in the neighborhood. I love the simplicity, without sacrificing image quality. All the bells and whistles of my Fuji GF system, I fully appreciate it, but 95% of the time I reach for my MP as my daily driver. It’s just the sheer fun of shooting, back to basics approach that made me rethink my photography. Enjoy your M10, Ted! I surely will enjoy my MP240.
Great balance you struck in this video! I loved the bit about creating work you are proud of using with what might be deemed lesser equipment. Since college I was curious about rangfinders so I bought a Zorki 4 in 2016 and my mind was blown. I realized this was the type of camera for me! I still use my Zorki, but now have a Leica M2 and iif. I can't stomach the price of a digital M, so I will continue to enjoy creating with my film rangefinders :).
Yep, thats me! Old film slr and film rangefinder. I started out with and am still shooting my first rangefinder Yashica J35. I’m hooked. Currently building a modest savings for my Leica.
Hey Ted, happy to hear you managed to meet Ralph again and follow one of his course 👍😘
Great stuff Ted, I love how you got to find Leica to be your camera of choice, at least one of your choices! I started into photography with a minolta 7 rangefinder, 40mm or 45mm f1.4 fixed lens. Learnt how to the rangefinder camera as a teenager and man that thing was sharp as a tack! Got it stolen, moved onto film SLRs and later to a canon DSLR, mounted vintage lens to that canon 60D and fell in love with the vintage lenses again. Because I did not want to go back to film and stick to digital, I hunted for a retro looking mirrorless body, Leica had to be it, bought a silver M10-P and I can't complain, love it to this day. I am looking forward to your Leica vids, your explanation and take on just about anything photography is honest and a revelation each time, love that talent you have, THANK YOU!
I've got quite a few cameras at this point, but the bodies I've used the most by far through the years - even more than the Nikons that have helped to pay for them - have been my Leica M's. Love the size, the simplicity, and I really appreciate the consistency. They do exactly what you want them to do and, as long as you're not prone to dropping them on the floor, rarely ever do something unexpected, which is exactly what I want in a photographic tool.
I bought a canon G10 the other day and really enjoy the compact nature of it. Totally limited, but when you get the exposure right ... damn, it can produce a fine image. It ain’t always about the gear, but the right magic of light, composition and timing.
So interesting you post a video about Leica's today, when all week they've been on my mind.
Yet another awesome video friend :)
Thank you for what you do
one of the most valuable and interesting channels on CZcams. great content
I shoot - digitally - with an MD-262 (no screen variation of the M262) and the M246 (monochrome variation of the M240) and love the experience!
I primarily use the M system and recently acquired an SL2. I love how the M lenses work on the SL2. I got the SL2 primarily for landscapes and use the M10P for pretty much everything else. Everything about both of these types of cameras is just great.
Using the SL2 with M lenses or?
What adaptor do you use for the M lenses on the SL2 and if you did not have the M lenses would you use the native SL lenses? (I have an SL2 and the native 24-90 + 90-280, but have been considering a 50mm prime.)
@@thomastuorto9929 I use M lenses on the SL2 with the Leica adaptor. I did purchase a panasonic 70-200 f4 for those times a longer focal length is needed. I find the panasonic to be a great lens.
I have the SL2, CL and Qp, I too think a SL2 monochrome using the Q2 monochrome sensor would be great and already
could be a parts bin camera combining parts from the SL2 and Q2 with little extra R&D.
Just bought a leica M7, so joining the family! Good points made here great video!
Had to watch this as I currently have the same setup, M10-p and Sl2-s The SL is so easy to focus and and the low light is amazing, plus ibis! I'm curious to see if you decide to part with your M. I'm certainly thinking about it but it's so hard to let go.
Hi Ted great video as always. My comment is totally unrelated to your video but I felt it was important to reach out nonetheless. I just wanted to say thankyou for the inspirational content, I really appreciate it. Inspired by your videos on Graciela Iturbide and Ansel Adams I recently bought my first camera ( Canon M50 MkII ) and today I took my first photographs with it. I am 43 and have never really been able to find what "My Thing" was and as a result have struggled to carve out some happiness for myself. All of that changed today because of you. Its spring here in South Australia and there's no better time to be out with my camera. Whilst my first photographs are pretty bad I am enjoying learning the relationship between Aperture, Shutter Speed and ISO. More than anything else though I feel that every time I bring my images into focus I start to see myself and who I am a little clearer. That's not something I was expecting but it has totally changed my perspective on the world and my place in it. I didn't realize how much power this beautiful art form could have. Thankyou.
I love my old SL Type 601, the astonishing view finder makes it a joy for manual focus. Currently my favourite lens is the Voigtlander Norton 75mm f1.5 which does something magical wide open. So a good question would be, is Leica M glass better on an M or on the SL?
Congrats!, had the same set up for the last 7 years, it was rewarding.
I wish you showed some more of your images from your past year of shooting with your m10p. You didn't show much.
As always, great video Ted!
I have been shooting basic 35mm cameras since the mid 70s. This year I purchased my first auto focus 35mm camera.
I find it much nicer since I started wearing glasses. It's still used in m mode just enjoying the AF.
Love the whole manual lens setup,and definitely would love to try Leica,I always have,but it's just way too expensive for me to get into.Maybe in the next life!!!!
Tony, I've been shooting with Leica since 1968 and have owned my current M3 for 40 years. I looked into going with a digital Leica, actually was holding the M8 in a camera store with my wife encouraging me to buy it. I could afford it, but I couldn't justify it.
Instead I went with Fuji and now have the X-E2s, X-E3 and X-1. I've also use the X-Pro2, which is about as close to a rangefinder Leica as you can get. When I use my X-E3, I get 90%+ of the goodness of shooting with my M3, plus some features exclusive to the Fuji. My Fuji lenses perform better than my vintage Leica lenses, and as a bonus I can shoot with my Leica lenses in manual mode.
Some describe Fuji as "the poor man's Leica", but I think it is actually "the smart man's Leica".
Ever since I got the Leica Q, I'm in love with how that camera handled compared to my Sony cameras I had at the time. Later on I was in a Leica workshop where I got to try out the SL, man I'm in love again. When the SL2 came out later, I bought it. Now I love using it but it's a bit too heavy tbh
@frank wu the CL is a great size if you can cope with APS-C. I use one, the SL and a M.
Thank you for an excellent explanation of why some folks might choose a Leica. Like many, I have several brands of digital cameras and find great use for all of them in differing scenarios. Here comes the "But." But my love of Leica is as strong as ever in spite of what many might consider over priced and antiquated cameras (specifically the M line of cameras) I just really enjoy using my Leica M Type 262 rangefinder and 35mm f/2 Summicron.
Love to hear you talking about Leicas! :P Thanks for the info Ted
Wow you came to the same conclusion as I did. I sold off most of my Sony gear earlier this year and moved to the M10R and SL2-S. I wasn't a big fan of the SL lenses, as perfect as they are, I prefer manual focusing the M-lenses. I carry the M10R for street photography with wide lenses and I use the SL2-S for shooting portraits with the 50/0.95 Noctilux. The image quality and the colors I get are amazing. You can also try the CL lenses on the SL2-S. You wind up with a crop view and lower resolution but I love their small sizes and great quality. I have the 23/2 and 35/1.4. I have the CL as well but I only use that if I want to use the Noct as a 75mm for portraits.
Good to see you here! I echo your statement, M for street, SL for portraits, CL for travel for me :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Hi Matt! Good to see you here too. Yes the CL is a lovely camera for travel when you dont want to be loaded down.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Hi Matt! Good to see you here too. Yes the CL is a lovely camera for travel when you dont want to be loaded down.
Ted Im glad to hear you say this. Been one hell of a journey with this channel and with an instant "Like" after hearing you talk for about this for 3 mins I and many others will be excited to watch the direction of where you going with this.
Is that Jon Davis on piano? If it is, I went to see him in the 1980's here in S.F. Ca. Part of the house band at Jimmies. His technique has mellowed, making me think he has some issues playing as aggressively as he did, but then, but nobody could play like him. Just incredible, and I went all the time. If it is Jon Davis, there's video on youtube of him with Jaco Pastorius showing him in primo form. (Even Jaco dropped in to play in Tibouron at a small club in the 80's) Let me know...thanks.
I also just had a total "a-ha!" moment when you showed the Leica rangefinder. My first camera, a 1970s Kodak Instamatic had exactly that! Ah, the good old days.....
SL2 Monochrome: sign me up to Pre-Order ! As a camera junkie, the SL2 is top shelf terrific, So is the M10M!
Great timing! I just made a video about my first experience using the Leica M6!
Hope you liked the M6! I find I still go to my M3 the most for the viewfinder :)
I’ve been shooting solely on a 1953 Argus C3 for the past 18 years and it’s become my style and a part of me. I would love to see what a Leica is all about.
Joey - Austin Tx
Awesome. I haven't had a Leica ever since I started in photography back in the '80s. My main SLR was Zenit E. Though it was stolen and DSLR intervened; hence, the analog camera became a thing of the past. Though after one year of using my DSLR, I threw it in the cabinet and just used my Smartphone, which, for me, was better, as you could blend in with the crowd via selfie fashion. Recently, particularly last year, I got back into the analog camera and for all I know, I was collecting vintage SLRs. From Nikon's to Canons; from Pentax to Minolta, from Contas to Olympus, the list goes on and on with my collections. The film-based cameras are still the best, you get to take some time and every shot is worth a million Pesos. Unlike the DSRL, waiting for the results is priceless! And, Leicam is next on the list!
The elongated time and waiting one may have (motor-drives for analog cameras were not invented for dogs) for a photograph does not depend on whether one uses a digital or analog camera, it is all the camera-user's responsibility. The plus with digital is that you can photograph more (speed and quantity) because of cost, and get immediate results. So digital cameras can do more not less, it is all about the way one uses them. Film-cameras are not "the best"; they may suit you for whatever reason but there are millions if not more of people in this world that will disagree with you with their digital cameras. In the end it is all about making photographs, not the time it takes to make them which you do not know/see in the final result.
Great to see you shooting Leica Ted, congrats! Long time follower of your channel and now have my own (mostly devoted to all things Leica + film) :)
I recently acquired 3 leicas back to back 3 years ago.. all M rangefinders ( used m9 with sensor replaced) , m10p and leica film MA mainly for film stock i have.. i have been thoroughly impressed with the simplicity and the focus on composition it brings about in a tiny package.. the optics - leica and zeiss glass is top notch. i was no more thinking about autofocus modes, and other tech aspects, other than the exposure triangle , and asking myself, is the aperture or shutter speed adequate to capture the subject in question when the subject comes into the compositional frame lines.. there is something about painting a picture with colors and brushes and getting dirty in the process and then admire your work as opposed to see a picture take form while you sip tea and an android/ AI paints the canvas. The price of entry is high and you dont need a leica to shoot like you would, with a leica.. yet there is something about the heritage, the simplicity and the beautiful industrial design that make these machines run for a very long time.
Agreed I use Leicas but recently got the new Lumix S5 as a cheaper SL2-S. It takes similar images but it was less fun tot hold and shoot so I went back to what I know and got the SL to join the family :)
A very interesting and enlightening video, thanks. I'd have thought that the most compelling reason to get a Leica camera is so you can use the Leica lenses? In the end, if you want amazing image quality, it comes down to the combination of sensor and lens. And many Leica lenses, crazilly expensive as they are, are just stunningly good. This is why the Leica Q2 is actually a bit of a bargain, especially used. You can get a remarkable high resolution sensor and a top quality Leica f1.7 lens for under 4k.
5:24 I'm also made a lot of mistake from recomposing because of one single focus point at middle. Could you please suggest me some tip for focusing subject on rule of third position?
I do think a mono SL camera would be insanely good. To often I think people rely on over saturation and visual appeal over art. A mini SL would bring back the art of video and probably create its own niche like the q and m cameras have.
Very well articulated, thank you.
Fuji sports finder mode, check it out the next time you have a newer fuji. My xt-3 has it, it shows the area around your frame in the evf
Awesome idea to have a SL2 Monochrome. I’m still in the SL (Typ601), but a SL2-M could be a good alternative. Thanks Ted for the video.
I really love that you explore questions I never really consider. Then my brain starts working, and I can't get to sleep. LOL, love what you are doing, and now I am considering,,,,,Leica.......hrmmmm.
The Leica M10 is the only camera I've ever wanted bad enough to buy it new, which I did at the tail end of 2018. I didn't want the touch screen bad enough to stump up an extra two grand for the M10-P.
People always complain about Leica, but there are many key advantages IMO: build quality, lens quality, size and weight, easy to hand-hold at low shutter speeds (great for night film shots), quiet, zone focusing is faster than auto focus, etc
A decade ago, I bought an M3 and 50mm Summicron. The purveyor surprised me when he said “Your film kit is done, that’s all you’ll ever need.” He was fundamentally correct. Exploring multiple alternatives has proven that to be generally true. Perhaps in time a M10-P will be in the cards.
Totally agree. No matter what camera you have, a Leica or a dump phone, what you can do is creativity.
Hello Ted! First of all thank you for your wonderful Channel, your Passion is so inspiring! ive Got an idea / request for a Video. Could you do a top 10 video about photography Books you would recommend to us?? Maybe also including some that arent too hard to find?
Woah, Scat Jazz Lounge, love that place! I’m originally from the Fort Worth area too. I definitely am wanting to transition over to Leica someday whenever I can afford to, particularly a QP or a Q2 📷
A Leica SL Monochrome would be my all time favorite camera. I already have the SL and the M246.
If you’re in Austin for photography and need someone to move lights, equipment, get coffee …. I’m here for you 🤠📷🐶
Your title caught my attention, as coming from the 60s (in the film time) no one would ever asked why Leica, other then can I afford one. Glad to hear you liked it, thought it was like asking was Ansel Adams great? Provocative questions for sure the camera line sounds intriguing, especially that a camera can be simple in this day and age.
SL Monochrom would be awesome, I have a Q2M and I sometimes miss having a different lens on it. SL M would be a dream!
My Nikon dF (affectionately known as "doof") allows me to shoot in AFC format while seeing full-frame in the viewfinder, with lines showing the smaller sensor range. I played with it a bit and it would be cool in bird photography, but I use it with my older, MF glass, and my eyes/MF isn't quick enough for birds (Doof is kept in Manual Exposure, Spot Meter and MF, at all times). Thanks for the video!
I've known 7 years ago that rangefinders were for me. I didn't have the budget for an M system at the time so I got myself a used Konica Hexar RF and a Zeiss 35 Biogon. I used the hell out of it. Lots of my favorite shots were taken with that combo.
Now I have a M10-R and a couple of lenses and couldn't be more satisfied with my purchase. I won't wax lyrical about Leica but it's the only FF digital rangefinder and film prices are climbing higher and higher. So I figured might as well take the plunge. Now I don't lust for any camera, even an M11.
Hi, what strap are you using on your M10-P? Love your presentation. :)
Hello Some interesting thoughts here, I do like what you are saying about getting a cheeper camera to start with an learn you craft. The fact that cameras are just tools so right and know out should blame there tools for a bad job. I still think my best image was shot whet I was around 16 years old and a second hand Exakta 1000 (Not Sure on spelling) now in my 60's still love photography. I would love a Leice. I have seen as so many amazing image with these cameras. But I am sticking with my old Hasselblad and Nikon Z and F mount cameras and I know there not the same look but I am still amazed at what they over. Keep well, keep safe and enjoy life.
Also Ted. It would be good to add to this video that Leica has unified this incredible menu system across the entire current M, SL2, and Q2 models. Each has its own features unique to the body and system, but they are all the same setup, layout, and buttons. If you know one, the others are essentially the same and always improving with new firmware.
yes Leica have the best menus for sure! :)
I shoot with the original SL and Q2M both are amazing cameras.
Love my SL, have the CL and M but the Q range is tempting! :)
I don't really want a Leica but I love rangefinders. I really enjoy my old Tower/Nicca Leica III copy (but with lever advance) and my Canon Vt. Rangefinders slow you down. I feel like that's there best feature. The thing is if you like rangefinders, Leica are the ones that are still being maintained and made. But the old Canon rangefinders and lenses are the most economical way to go. Plus the Canon Vt has the trigger winder that I absolutely love. I do find the Leica digital monochrome intriguing but for the price, I'll stick with film. Plus with film, I can vary the film for a slightly different look. I am just not convinced by digital black and white. Digital is fine for color.
Let us face it you have more flexibility, especially from shot to shot, with digital than film. It is a different practice and what matters is that you enjoy what you do the way you do it (obviously it has to be a hobby ;o).
I adore Leica. The autofocus sucks compared to Sony and Canon which I once had. But it's the ease of getting to exceptional image quality that makes me go back to the brand time and again. The SL2-S is "the best M-camera for M-lenses", with the exception of size, but still not bad at all. I will keep mine for some time. An interesting use case for the SL2-S is - what if you're a one-man photo and video crew? At first I thought the lack of a flippy screen was a deal breaker. Would be interested how you would make one vlog and showcasing photos with just that camera and what solutions you'd put in place compared to your current set-up. Cheers.
Just one note: The SL-S is NOT the best camera for M-lenses as these are designed for specifically for M-cameras and their "M" sensors, and an M lens will always do better on an M camera (that is why there SL lenses, whose sizes and design (and specs) are very different from M lenses).... ;o) but they are good enough.
How is focusing in lowlight with a rangefinder? Does the lack of light make the RF patch hard/impossible to see at all?
Much easier than you might think. A lot easier than a DSLR but a mirrorless camera in 'night mode' can also be easy. As the RF is glass you can see as clear as without the camera.
U need to learn zone focus when you using rangefinder.
If u need a precise composition u might need to use their LV.
Ted hi, I like the perspective of the lens you used for the video. What focal length is it? My widest is 35mm and I am looking for something more interesting. Thanks!
The Ms are great cameras. But anyone contemplating an M needs to be fully cognizant of the more limited shooting envelope that these cameras have. While you can certainly stop down and use zone focusing in good lighting (like outdoors during daylight hours), which works great, shooting moving subjects in low light with your lens wide open is very challenging on an M camera. It requires a degree of machine-user synergy that takes a long time to perfect.
Always use the right tool for the job. Often the Leica M is the wrong tool. I use a TS-E 90mm f/2.8 T&S lens for product shots-therefore a Canon EOS makes a lot more sense than a Leica M for my work.
@@fotochuck Precisely.
There's a reason classic Leica cameras used f2 and f3.5 lenses. A mechanical rangefinder focusing system is not accurate compared to modern AF. It can be a joy to use, but those great photographers from the 1930s to the 1980s used the rangefinder as a focusing aid, not definitive focus in the way contemporary photographers aspire to. Cartier-Bresson's early cameras didn't even have a rangefinder, just an out of axis peephole viewfinder and it didn't stop him taking some of the finest black and white street photographs yet seen.
@@borderlands6606 "...not definitive focus in the way contemporary photographers aspire to."
Any photographer will aspire to "definitive focus" if they can get it.
@@RobertFalconer1967 By the 1960s studio photographers were moving over to SLRs for 35mm for their versatility. Very few were shooting gnat's whisker bokeh shots of the kind that have become popular since, even for portraiture. Rangefinders aren't the ideal tool for that kind of work but they're great for street photography, zone and hyperfocal shooting.
I’ve used aM3 for years, and when I review my old photos, I notice that many images are composed with the main point of interest at the centre of the picture. This came about because I was preoccupied with making sure that I could keep this item(e.g. someone’s eye) in sharp focus. (In fairness, film era SLRs also had a focus aid at the centre of the frame, same effect.)
One thing I really enjoy about my Fuji XPro 2 is my ability to re-position the focus spot almost anywhere I need it.
@james tulk, I tend to focus and recompose with M cameras (for say off centre portraits etc)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom great for disciplined formal portraits, less so for dynamic subjects. As "nameless" suggests, chasing a toddler around a room with a rangefinder camera can be pretty hit-and-miss.
Still have my M2 & 50 Elmar purchased in 1960, M9 purch in 2009 and love my M10... by the way M246 (monichrom) does do BW only Video.....
The Leica M2 is my favorite camera of all time. It’s a masterpiece of engineering, in my opinion.
The M2 is my fav for 35mm but I prefer the M3 otherwise for that viewfinder :)
Wolf99 _almost_ as good as the M3 😀
Yes same dilemmas as me. I bought a battered used Leica T from eBay & fell in love with it. It was like picking a scab, I couldnt let it alone. So I bought a new TL2 with 23mm Summicron and dumped the T. The TL2 was a disappointment; focus and exposure control sucked giving me a hit rate in poor lighting of about 20% so I sold it. I completed putting my Sony A7ii & A6500 kit together. But it kept nagging at the back of my mind; the photos I did get had something special about them. I dug out the old Leica T, cleaned it up and scoured the sensor (yes you heard me, I used cloths and industrial solvents to remove sticky deposits on the sensor, it was kill or cure). It worked. Bought it a leather half case and strap from Amazon. And now its the camera I find myself using with another 23mm prime i bought used. It wouldnt surprise me if I rebought the TL2, gritted my teeth and overcame the shortcommings. There is something addictive about using it and I so love the tilting Visoflex. Good luck with your Leica; I will watch your progress with interest ;-)
Love my Leica T with 7 artisans 50mm F1.1. So I Bought 2 more T.
@@minhta7540 Yes as soon as I picked up the T I loved it but, the TL2 was a disappointment. Not really sure why, its essentially the same camera but somehow doesnt feel like it. Love the T shutter & the TL2 seems feeble in comparison. As well as the 23mm Summicron-TL and standard zoom I also use adapted Voightlander 28mm f2 and Nikkor 35mm f2D. I doubt I will upgrade to the TL2 again, so enjoying my battered old T ;-)
Try the CL, amazing little camera!
You can take photos with any camera as long as you understand PHOTOGRAPHY
You have a very good point. I suggested to Leica some years ago that they should make a monochrome SL and a monochrome S. Red makes monochrome versions of some of their cameras, and eventually ARRI copied that strategy and made a monochrome Alexa.
You’re so bloody articulate! 🔥
I would like to add one more advantage to the range finder camera, at least for a right eye dominant photographer. The left eye is not covered by the camera and you can see things far outside the viewfinder. For a street or event photographer this can be a big advantage.
Ted have you ever looked at the Jazz Photography of William Claxton or Milt Hinton. Both were fine photographers. Well worth looking for in the used book world.
Finally - What happened to your artist series video on the great Clyde Butcher?
P.S. I own both a Leica M6 and a Q2. They are both great in their own ways and a pleasure to use. There is probably an M10 in my future.
Add Herman Leonard to the list (although not using a Leica).
I would love to try a Leica. indeed, a custom Leica MP was my dream for a long time. However i don't have the budget for a Leica kit. i am happily invested in Canon, with a system of Digital and Film Cameras that all share lenses and accessories. my cameras are all set up exactly how I love to work, so I don't have to run through Menu systems (although i know the menu system of my 5 D Mark 2.
Steve there are cheap Leica if you know what to look for, see my many Leica vids!
If you use a Leica lens on a Sony A7riv body using an Voigtlander adapter what are the disadvantages? Do you use loose image quality as using an adapter changes the distance from of the lens from the sensor?
I loved my old M2. Beautiful camera,
Love the strap on your m10. Could you please tell me where your purchased it from? Thank you so much🙏
I never thought I would go Leica…but I did! The ergonomics style and simplicity are incredible…no one has it perhaps Hasselblad to some extent. And, the color science…what and achievement! Six months later and I have a Q2 and just picked up a SL2S…I’m in heaven…. Very interested in you digging in these two cameras…! Be safe.. Cheers.
Have an SL2S .... lovely camera just (for me) let down because of the CDAF. Use it with M , CL (10mp) and native lenses .
Excellent presentation.
I bought a M240 and a 50MM Summicron a few months ago. I love its simplicity and its small size. It is just easier to carry around than my Canon 5D4 and the huge L lenses.
But its not the same kind of camera. Try shooting sports or wildlife with the Leica or anything that moves much. Different tools for different jobs
@@RichardsModellingAdventures, agreed, I do not use the Leica for those purposes, which I do little of anyway.
Congrats Donald, great camera! I love mine
I stopped looking at other gear since i got my M and i shifted my focus to photography books and getting better at photography overall and that’s the best compliment i can give to a Leica.
I’m an M(M10M/M10R) shooter and I don’t think leica will introduce Sl2 monochrome for various business model complications but as well cannibalization on M series; I do own a Q2 as well and i think the Q2 position is the gate to either Sl or M hence introducing Q2M was again for the same reason so all products line are strategically placed to complement each other and impose a limitations that push you through the product lineup; i enjoy shooting 28/35/50 if 28 is you favorite Q2/Q2M but the limitations is what if you prefer 50 then choice is Sl2 or M what if you prefer 50 but you want a monochrome experience etc etc maybe Leica will do it but I don’t think it is a smart move
you shifted focus, eh?
I see what you did here. Nice composition!
@@GBCR 🤣🤣
I like the M for 28-50mm and SL for 50mm or fast 50s like the Nocti ..or focusing closer than 0.7m
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom i mainly shoot 28-50 but i agree with you
@@slickhatter9812 thanks, me too!
There is part of me that really wants a Leica. I am tempted by a Q2 because of budget - although I do wish it were 35mm. I guess though it gives space for cropping though...
Yes you can use it in crop mode but that is limited to JPEG so you would then have to crop all the RAW files too.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom yup.... could easily make a preset for it in Lightroom
@@MeAMuse yes agreed! I use my various MrLeica presets for all my RAW files. I guess it’s just a shame to not use all of the Q2 MP
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Honestly I have a Sony A7R3.... Most the time I wish there were less megapixels due to the storage and fact that Lightroom is slower. Sadly that wont be benefit to the the Q2 files. I started with an 18MP Canon 7D, then went to Sony A7 (24MP) - and I am pretty sure I will be happy with the 35mm and 50mm crops. For the 75mm.... it will depend natural it looks. I don't think it is going to look anything like a normal ~85mm FOV due to the lack of background compression.... but will probably be fine for 8x10 prints.. The other part of me that wonders whether to go the whole hog and get an M is whether the Qs will hold their value like the Ms do. It worries me because obviously Ms you invest in glass... the body keeps a bunch of value, but you can always put the glass on a new body. I am thinking the Q2 will because 47MP is waaay more than enough for me... I have a 24MP print on my wall that is 20x30" and it's fine (and it's shot on Sony's least sharp lens). I have 2 years till my 40th though (that's when I think I will own it by)... so maybe there might be a Q3 I can hedge my bets with.
@@MeAMuse yes agreed, Ms hold their value better than other Leica bodies if you look at the trends. Film Leicas go up in value so I have no issue buying older Leicas! (My excuse) :)
I think it’s incredibly important to address the M’s manual focus and high aperture lens focus. The impact that has on moving subjects vs still subjects is very important. This is no family man’s camera system, especially when using the summilux lenses. When it comes to the SL2S, you have to address what style shooting is best for the Leica shooter vs. the Sony shooter.
Just get an autofocus system or learn how to use an M better - I’m documenting all my boy activity with an M and lux 35 1.4 and almost done printing a family book with blurb and countless photographers used leica to do street photography of unpredictable moving subjects so again learn to use it better - by high aperture you mean a fast lens as high aperture is not a term used in photography; in regards to sl2 vs Sony or Nikon or any brand of that matter what is needed to be addressed ? actually all i see is a stupid comparison of very similar system that mostly does the same thing with variations of shape and size unless as usual you are trying to state that Sony is better or Nikon or whatever which again nonsense and a very idiotic view on camera gear in general
@@slickhatter9812 hold your horses, is he really saying what's better, or asking to nuance what style of shooting is the camera better for? Sheesh.
@@dhruvang5369 can you answer the question and define a style between Sony/Canon/Nikon/Fuji/leica AF cameras offerings at the same level that each camera uniquely and marginally excels at and absolutely cannot be achieved by any other if lenses offering are no issue ?
Thanks Ted!