My Q2 Monochrome is the camera that’s almost always with me. I love it. It’s on manual focus most of the time. That slows me down just enough to enjoy the process. The lens is great. It renders beautifully. I’ve just finished a shoot for which we used the Q2 next to an H6D and it holds up great. I’ve no need for video, but if Leica could make a Q2 version with a 65-75mm lens…
After trying a lot of the cameras which were touted as being the best for street photography, I decided in 2019 to give the Q2 a try. I fell in love, so much so, that I sold off all of my other gear and moved to Leica, buying the SL2 with two Zooms. The user interface and ergonomics of these two Leica cameras are so intuitive and easy to use, that they are the fastest cameras I was able to setup for a shot. But back to the Q2... I went on a ten day trip to New York last year with both of my cameras. Later while going through and editing the images I shot, I noticed two things. First, I shot two thirds of my photos with the Q2 and that I had a very high rate of keepers at that. My message to anyone who likes shooting street is: If you like 35mm for street like I do, moving to 28mm is a blessing... I have room to crop to the best 35mm frame in post, and 28mm has its own charm too. :D
I have the Q2 monochrom and it's amazing. It has become my go-to B&W camera, the raw files have incredible tonality and can be pushed around ridiculously in post. It's a wonderful camera in every way. The Q2M was my first Leica and it has turned me into a Leica fanboy. I added an SL2-S recently which I use for low light and astro and I'm really happy with both cameras. They are permanent residents of my go-to camera setup for landscapes and cityscapes alongside a GFX 100S.
Using the Q2 as your only camera is a delightful, yet frustrating experience that will make you a way better photographer. That’s what happened to me. For portraits, the 28mm lens will distort your subject when shot at close range as compared to a 35 or a 50. The key is to back up five or ten feet then use the digital crop mode. The distortion will go away, and you will have enough megapixels left over to still get a usable file. When you back up, your depth of field will increase, which will result in less bokeh (if that is what you’re after). You can mitigate that by opening the aperture up to 1.7. The camera sucks big time in low light. I now cap the ISO at 1600 because anything more than that results in too much noise. The good news is you can use Denoise AI to improve this (but it’s not a panacea). This also incentivizes you to look for better light which I have found makes you more creative and results in more interesting photos.
I can’t recall exactly, but I think I’ve had 6 or 7 Qs lol… Currently still have 2 of them. The 007 and the Daniel Craig edition. Absolutely love the Qs!
I own both versions of the Q2 and absolutely love them. Western Washington can be a little wet much of the year, so having a camera that is both resistant to moisture and has a great macro feature is definitely another plus for these high quality extremely versatile cameras.
The camera is rated to IP52. You can check those specs on line. I’ve used mine in light rain while composing and taking an image without any problem. I always carry a camera bag when going out in the rain and keep the camera in the bag for protection while walking around until I find my next subject. I never expose it to heavy driving type rain.
Using both M10 and Q2. Hard to beat the M with 50 Lux, but the Q2 got a special place in my heart. And I agree, you buy the Q-lens and get the camera body for free. It’s an incredible lens. Also, happy to see that people are talking about Leica all of a sudden without being sarcastic about the price level.
Thank you for the video, very well put. God and my wife know I spent a ton of money buying fixed lens cameras in the pursuit of the Q2, including Ricoh, Fuji and the Sony RX1RII, I finally bit the bullet and bought the Q2 last year and I could not be any happier, love the simplicity the response and EVF, the shallow depth of field at 28 is unreal, the photos are so sharp and the shadows well controlled. That said I think the IQ of the RX1 is superior including the dynamic range, however the dreadful EVF, and battery life on the Sony coupled with awful manual focusing experience make me reach for the Q2 almost always. The Q2 is such a pleasure to use and create with, it’s a keeper for sure
@@JeanLucConnery The original XP1? I'd say probably not and 16mm = 24mm, which is a little too wide for general use for me. Personally, I think the R1R2 is a solid choice, but suffers from the worst EVF in a mirrorless camera, at least at that price point. I was tempted by a used RX1R2 at a local shop at $1600USD, but even at that price, the loud AF, tiny EVF, less than ideal ergonomics and the generation 1 menu system just didn't appeal to me like less expensive cameras did. A new X100V, X-E4 + 35 f2 or a used Sony A7III + 35 f2.8 or f2 would be more flexible for about $1500. Of course, these are all much better deals that the Q2, which no one seems to be talking about it's primitive AF because it's a Leica. I owned a Q2 for about a week and it struggles to focus even in broad daylight, not to mention how it would do in the extreme low light that I work in professionally.
Excellent content, congratulations. Could you do more content with the Leica Q2 please, probably with the CL too. You have tried some telephoto converter with the Leica Q2, thank you, a big hug
The only feature I'm missing on my Q2 is a Live View zoom in the viewfinder that matches the selected focal length. So it would look like you had a 75mm mounted on the lens for instance. Way easier see details on the subject. This could be used optionally if you like the current M-viewfinder-like experience of seeing around the subject.
I think it's intentional.... and actually, the way they have it... is the way that I would want it. When you change the mode to one of the effective focal lengths it is effectively mimicking a range finder and allows you to see what is about to walk into the frame. Maybe it's a setting somewhere that you can change?
I agree with both your comment and Dean’s. Just having the option would be great. My perfect setting would be if you could add a simple function that would 1. Turn live view zoom on and off and 2. A setting to preselect which crop gets the live view. Ie for me, I would never want it at 35 and rarely at 50 but would love for it to kick on at 75.
I loved my original Q and I love my Q2 Monochrom. These are so much fun to use and I’ve always loved the files coming out of them. I throw a red filter on when I want high contrast black and white or an orange when I want it to be a little more manageable contrast
I bought x100v due to the price of q2, used it for a year. But eventually ended up buying Q2 selling x100v and it’s absolutely worth it, Q2 is much more elevated experience along with brilliant IQ.
Hello, will grab my Leica Q2 Reporter edition this week in on of the Leica stores here in Paris. I was focused on getting the Monochrom version. They lend me for a few days (free of charge) the Monochrom version, but seems that even though I love B&W photography, I think the Q2 color version will suit more my needs. Leica's advise: if you do more than 80% of your shots in B&W, then the Monochrom version is the way to go, else prefer the regular version...
I love my original q I use it all the time I own a lot of other cameras and it is my favorite I would want to upgrade at some point but the original q has so much going for it and the additional mp are nice but not a must for how I use it
What I still don’t get is how cropping is equivalent as having other lenses. By this logic if I use Canon with a 16-35 f2.8 I could always crop in so no need to get a 70-200? And in that sense, wouldn’t an image shot with the 28mm cropped in still get its properties in terms of shaping and rendering as a 28 mm in the center, which is very different from a 35mm, 50mm and so on?
the only advantage I can see is that if you wanted to zoom in at 50 and 75 then the frame lines are there and help to frame more accurately .The mp count is so high ( 47mp full frame) that even losing quality through cropping your going to get very good quality.In that respect i see how it could be the equivalent of having a 26-30 MP camera and 3 different prime lenses( 28,50,75mm).
Love your channel and videos. I am a hobbyist and selling my Sony A7IV and all my lenses and planning on getting a q2. Just tired of the whole feature heavy system and feeling uninspired. I hope I can slow down and experience more inspiration. P.S. you said 2020 in your introduction, a mistake I make all the time 😄
Two years ago I researched carefully before buying my Q2 to get a camera which fits my hands (as a woman photographer) as well avoiding the issue of cumbersome lens decisions. It fulfilled my needs so perfectly I purchased the Q2M to take a advantage of the greater tonal range without the conversion concerns of converting color images. It’s been worth the money but makes expanding to additional Leica cameras much too attractive. But it’s all OK!
Hi Claire, myself a lady too, was wondering if I m paying alot for Q2 when I can get the cheaper Q? Your thoughts please. Thanks. Q2 has great extra features (weather seal, larger pixel, better sensor, larger bokeh) but totally unnecessary for me. So, What is stopping me from jumping to get a Q1 then ? Firmware update can't be downloaded anymore.
I don’t see why not. Leicas retain their value very well. Q may not have all the features as the Q2 so check the differences and make sure the Q is acceptable for what you want to do. No matter what, it’s a great camera and a beautiful lens.
Right now (and really since I first got my hands on one) my dream camera is the Q2 Mono...such an amazingly functional piece of art. Someday looking to get a personal one.
The Leica Q2 looks neat, but for the rest of us poors, I'm so grateful that there's the Fuji X100 series. My X100V has become my go-to for the same reason people would gravitate to this. Still, would be neat to try at a demo or rent one day...
Do you have any issues with the Fuji X100V overheating? I considered that camera, but after just trying it in the store, it was extremely hot. I eventually saved more and bought the Q2M.
@@ablueslenz it does get warm to the palm (especially in burst mode), but I've never had an overheating issue. I do have the habit of turning it off between photos though since the battery is so weak, so that may help me vs someone else.
On very rare occasion my X100V has become very slightly warm, barely noticeable. It performs excellently. I rarely use the JPEG film simulations as the RAW files look quite good.
Bought my Q. Love it! It does everything that I need, and Is still reliable. So I have kept it. It goes with me everywhere. Q3? Well, I don’t need one, but I would like one. And probably won’t get one 😊
a couple of years ago there was a sudden batch of “is the Leica SL still worth it?” videos from people that do Leica videos. I posted that there is likely a SL2 on the way soon and sure enough there was. Of course Leica wanted to clear old stock ahead of the introduction of a new camera and that appears to be what they’re doing here. Maybe not this year but I’d guess within 12 months.
I just got a Q2M used ,like brand new from B&H for a steal ,lol,not a mark ,nearly used. I have been enjoying it and my instagram has been growing since posting my new B&W photos.I bought it to print posters and print books
Thank you for the video.. Been looking at a Q2 for a while now, talk to many who owned them. I only shoot photo, no video and a lot of street so it would make sense to me.
I have had the Q2 for a month now, and haven't used it for travel yet. Going on an extended trip for a month, and can't wait. The highlight priority exposure mode is the one I will use most; for photos and videos. All of my around the neighborhood testing shows that I can recover shadows very easily in both photo/videos and resulting pictures are magnificent.
Since I purchased my Q2 Monochrom, I have not shot with my D850. I thought I was going to hate not being able to change out lenses; however, it has not made a difference. I think I had fallen in love with my Nikkor 35mmAF on my D850 and using it so much that switching to the Q2 Monochrom with the 28mm and 35mm options was fairly natural. Even more, I carry the Q2M with me all.the.time. The latter is so important because I have been shooting more and surprising myself with what I see when I’m not looking.😊
I like the idea of the Q2 monochrome for doing tricolour separation photography. Could anyone tell me if the Q2M is truly panchromatic across the visual light spectrum, and if so what is the onboard white balance setting in degrees Kelvin? It looks like a very useable camera to me.
I aspire to own a Q2. It took almost everything I liked in the original Q and improved it just enough to replace the Q on my list of dream cameras. I can't justify it in any way except, "I want it." And that's ok.
I can honestly say that the Q2 produces some of the finest image quality I have ever seen in a digital camera, full stop. Q3 won't arrive until sometime next year.
Q2 is the best camera that I'd used before. high-resolution & rich detail, typical Leica image style, accuracy focus, beautiful 28mm with full of storytelling perspective...... i cant find any better one than Q2.
Can we have a couple of videos discussing photography award shows and merits of the winning photos? I want to look at good photos, and then have some of them explained... like the "photo assignment - your photos" videos.
Would be super grateful if you shared the camera you used to film this video? The video is so crisp
2 года назад+1
I hope you don't mind.. I'm a huge fan of your channel for years. This video is good for me to say that right now I'm selling a Q2 with two months of use! If someone wants it, write me!
Was in the process of selling my Leica T and lenses to buy a Q2 when your video came out… phew, good thing the ball was already rolling on that. V tempted by the monochrom but in the end went with standard as I want the photos of my kids in colour.
I just bought the D-lux 7 had it for two days... and I'm almost ready to sell all my Nikon gear for the Q2. I mean I just stumbled upon something very amazing and it's just a point and shoot. I'm a color blind person and I used to love the way Nikon rendered colors over the other auto-focus obsessed companies. but now that I look at the Lieaca colors I find them soothing to my eyes... I must be imagining this.
I would buy a Q2 or Q3 if it was made with a 50mm lens standard! I'm over wide lenses and planning to pick up a M10P with a 50mm lens. Miss my old M6 camera's
I have wanted to get my hands on a q2 since 2019. never had the cash. just recently was able to pick up an sony a7rii used off ebay to be my main camera. but have been looking for a fix lens viewfinder like camera. was thinking of getting the fuji x100 series but I dream about the q2! its remarkably beautiful with amazing shots.
I don't think the Q series is made for video, but hey since they put the SL2 sensor in there, they might as well give the option for someone that wants to record the occasionnal clip. the thing I would like to see though, is a little mic jack implementation on the Q3. I don't care about HDMI, headphone, Log profiles etc, as long as there is a mic jack somewhere. A video can be good if its recorded internally, without Log, but a video with bad audio will always be a bad video no matter what. And a camera like the Q2, being a camera you bring along for a trip, travel etc, having the possibility to put a small microphone on top of it would be so good and would open so many possibilities for this camera. Heck, I wouldn't even cared if Leica released an overpriced Leica branded accessory with a decent mic in it to stay streamlined with the camera's body design. Also, it would be so nice if Leica released an updated version of the X1. That was a fun camera, but it is quite outdated by now
Hi, several times I listened to your wording about Q2Monochrom! I tested all digital cameras to find the closest one to produce B&W nostalgic photos to remember my old school in university for 35 years ago. (P.S. I hate to take photo and make an image by digital software in post production!). Finally I found Fujifilm with having film simulation facility and then found out the phenomenal sensor on XPro1 which is so close to film photography. But, still when I look at photos by Q2M. I can feel something inside that I cannot describe and it’s a kind of spiritual enjoyment; I feel Art! Am I exaggerating? Am I wrong for my visual feeling? Shall I ignor camera brand and just take photos and make what I want in post?
Yes it is. It's just a matter if it fits your budget and you can justify having one. Latest firmware was a nice surprise having the highlight priority metering.
the 28mm is crazy, definitely one of the best modern lenses they produce, with the ability to crop and shoot macro, it's an obvious yes for me at least.
Well, the deal is sealed! I’ve been researching Q2 to determine whether to add to my equipment bag for several months. I appreciate your assessment. You’ve handed me the matches to light the candles! Here we go!!!
I prefer the Fuji XT4 and using acros, you can see in black-and-white all the time and if you think something looks better in colour you have that option in editing your raw file. 🖖
I think so. I bought one gently used, and can't get enough. My only complaint, it has switched to video when I didn't want it to. We should be able to completely disable the touchscreen (swiping intentionally or accidentally switches it, and it requires more persistence to switch it back, Not good.
Q2 specs don’t call for the price tag. We all know it. Recently I’ve seen multiple people talk about q2 and it always feels like they’re trying to defend their purchase, but can easily see the shortcomings of this camera. The truth is Leica doesn’t have the budget to compete with Sony or Canon, or even Fuji. All they can do is be a company with great history, that sells overprices cameras to people who care more about the esthetic of photography, than having the right tool. Having said all that, I really wish I had one 😂
@@tylerdurden2832 It doesn't matter if they want to or not. They can't. And I'm not talking about competing for sales. I'm talking about R&D and being able to create better and better cameras. Small companies have smaller budgets, and the difference in software and hardware quality will start leaving companies like leica behind, to the point where it will be "vintage" not only in style, but also in capabilities.
You don't buy a Leica instead of a Sony, Canon, Nikon or Fuji.... you buy it as well. It's the camera that a photographer wants to use outside of "work". Leica is not looking to compete with those companies... If they were they would not be hand-building cameras in Germany. So there is going to be a premium for that (and there quite rightly is). I think the reason that the Q2 is so popular is that a Summecron 28mm F2 by itself is $5K.... so getting an F1.7 with a body included for $5.8K is actually a pretty good value if you were looking to get into Leica. I have always been on the fence about buying a Leica. It's hard when you have a whole system.... I dont want to it be just another thing that I have to lug around with me.
The high price is part of the appeal, keeps it out of reach for most and creates this mystery about it. If Fuji offered a full frame X-pro body, it’d almost certainly be as good and most likely better.
I agree with everything you said in this video. I bought the Q2 Monochrom six months ago and I have to say, it is my favorite camera. Changing color filters reminds me of the film days. The IQ of the camera is outstanding and I believe it is worth the price tag. I sold my Fuji X100V after buying the Q2. I am contemplating just traveling with the Q2.
2 года назад
Well i bought filters too.. but actually don use very often. It is hard to take off and on sunshade and also.. i most of time shoot also people and even orange filter somehow make skin bit unnatural...
I'm still using the original Q and it still works great. But I would love to test the Q2 monochrome and see if it is something for me. Given that a large proportion of my pictures are converted to black and white anyway.
Except for the hotshoe, I disagree with the your take on the audio for Leica’s Q2 video. I find it just fine to use an outside recorder and match the audio in post. But the hot shoe would make the most sense and a pretty cool feature.
I have several Sony cameras from a Nex7 to an A7R2 but the Q2 is the one I always have with me and use most. Using any of the other crop modes I know where and why I cropped when I took the shot and reminded during editing so that would be my 6th reason to your other five. Thanks for the video.
I love the idea of having a small camera always in my pocket. I got personally fed up with digital photography, I realised that I was just shooting without even thinking. Right now I’m using a Nikon 28ti as daily driver and this brought back the joy of shooting.
@@tomttl I understand. I've got a Q2 and, yes, it's small enough to throw into a little mini backpack type thing. I just meant that it's not as compact as some people try to make it out to be.
just ordered my Q2 today… 50 plus years Nikon using photojournalist my first digital camera… should be fun for my luddite dinosaur personality…LOL… can’t wait !
Excellent review thank you. And now I know why they make a monochrome version! I have an A7iii and a good range of prime lenses but oh how I lust after a Q2.
Owning q2mono and absoluly happy.. using it daily is so much pleasure... I can not compate to x100 but i dont even want to :) i simply enjoy and use. While talking about tools.. i feel with q2 as with pro makita tools :)))
Man, I am sooo frustrated with the Q2 on street. AF is useless and I don’t trust it, MF albeit being better than on any other AF lens, is still not even close to preciseness and haptics of a true M lens. I’m picking up my M10-P with 35 cron so much more often and it’s much more enjoyable camera. Yeah and the distortion on Q lens is also very annoying
Owned the Q1 and liked it a lot more than I would have imagined. I use my MP240 more. I enjoy the process of making images with the M. The Q is more versatile. I still reach for my MP240 as my every day carry.
I absolutely adore this camera. I find that shooting at 35mm is the sweet spot for me. Still a whopping 30 megapixels, has frame lines to help composition and work with what's coming into your frame. It is weather sealed, has IBIS, a leaf shutter, macro capability, 10 bit video, and can easily switch to zone focus,. My only gripe is that there is quite a bit of noise at higher ISOs (above 3200). A lot of people say this camera is overpriced, but I actually think it's a great value. There is just no other camera with this combination of features.
I currently rock a nikon z6ii with the 24-70 2.8. I only ever shoot pics of my kids and family life, plus the odd landscape. I can't get the q2 ( especially the mono) out of my head. Smaller form factor, more pixels and that leica sauce... Is this just nonsense and I'm actually better off with my current set up? or am I onto something....the only thing that scares me is lack of reach and autofocus.
I have the Q2 , and also Laica CL with 35 1.4 . Great combo , Great photos. Sometimes I used them together for events, party and I some “light” wedding. In only 1,5 kilo 2 amazing cameras .
I REALLY wish Canon would put in a crop trigger on the 33mp APS-C cameras that used the same framing lines. I would hands down run a 35mm equivalent prime with a 40 to 50mm crop guide or 50mm equivalent prime with a 75-85mm crop guide all the time if it would still get me at least the ~16mp image. I've actually used an M6 Mark II quite a bit in medium mode that puts out a ~16mp image that has crazy good dynamic range in the resolution I prefer the most for my day-to-day images. I have used an X100V with the 50mm crop mode and I like the OVF having area outside the frame, but the way Leica has done it in the Q2 by emulating rangefinder guides is the best possible way to do a crop mode IMO. You get the benefit of a rangefinder in that you get to see outside of the frame while composing a shot, it's a no brainer instead of just zooming into the crop like every other crop mode/digital telephoto does. The even more massive X-H2 resolution would be great to implement this type of framing option for crop mode even if it's emulating a rangefinder feature on a slr style body (dumb to mention, but I know there are tons of people that would see the feature axed or changed just because of this reasoning).
Thank you for this informative upload. As a request, could you please consider keeping yourself in the same constant frame in future videos, rather than zooming in and out for each sentence 🙏🏻
I keep thinking someone ought to release a fairly compact fixed lens FF camera with a 50mm lens, at least f/1.8 or faster. If it’s Leica, I’ll never be able to afford it, but someone ought to make one. With a lens like that, it’ll be the “portrait compact.” While the FF vs Crop Sensor debate is often largely irrelevant, this is certainly a camera where the shallower depth of field at standard working distances would be important. Meanwhile, I really think it ought to be a 50. Insert discourse about the 50 being the soul and history of photography, but also there are a lot of good compact cameras on the wider end. That combination of a longer absolute focal length and a fast aperture would just open up a different aesthetic in the compact fixed lens camera segment. Toss in a build-in fill flash and ND filter to go with the leaf shutter? It’d be fantastic.
Heck, it's still worth it in 2024! I own a Q2 Monochrom, but with the recent price reduction on the Q2 - and the features/upgrades of the Q3 that I didn't find critical - I just purchased a brand new Q2.
I’m on Fuji now, but a Q3 monochrome might be in my future. My last Leica was an M6, I mostly shot B&W with it and made some of my best images ever. I loved my M6…
My Q2 Monochrome is the camera that’s almost always with me. I love it. It’s on manual focus most of the time. That slows me down just enough to enjoy the process. The lens is great. It renders beautifully. I’ve just finished a shoot for which we used the Q2 next to an H6D and it holds up great. I’ve no need for video, but if Leica could make a Q2 version with a 65-75mm lens…
After trying a lot of the cameras which were touted as being the best for street photography, I decided in 2019 to give the Q2 a try. I fell in love, so much so, that I sold off all of my other gear and moved to Leica, buying the SL2 with two Zooms.
The user interface and ergonomics of these two Leica cameras are so intuitive and easy to use, that they are the fastest cameras I was able to setup for a shot.
But back to the Q2... I went on a ten day trip to New York last year with both of my cameras. Later while going through and editing the images I shot, I noticed two things. First, I shot two thirds of my photos with the Q2 and that I had a very high rate of keepers at that.
My message to anyone who likes shooting street is: If you like 35mm for street like I do, moving to 28mm is a blessing... I have room to crop to the best 35mm frame in post, and 28mm has its own charm too. :D
I have the Q2 monochrom and it's amazing. It has become my go-to B&W camera, the raw files have incredible tonality and can be pushed around ridiculously in post. It's a wonderful camera in every way. The Q2M was my first Leica and it has turned me into a Leica fanboy. I added an SL2-S recently which I use for low light and astro and I'm really happy with both cameras. They are permanent residents of my go-to camera setup for landscapes and cityscapes alongside a GFX 100S.
Using the Q2 as your only camera is a delightful, yet frustrating experience that will make you a way better photographer. That’s what happened to me. For portraits, the 28mm lens will distort your subject when shot at close range as compared to a 35 or a 50. The key is to back up five or ten feet then use the digital crop mode. The distortion will go away, and you will have enough megapixels left over to still get a usable file. When you back up, your depth of field will increase, which will result in less bokeh (if that is what you’re after). You can mitigate that by opening the aperture up to 1.7. The camera sucks big time in low light. I now cap the ISO at 1600 because anything more than that results in too much noise. The good news is you can use Denoise AI to improve this (but it’s not a panacea). This also incentivizes you to look for better light which I have found makes you more creative and results in more interesting photos.
I can’t recall exactly, but I think I’ve had 6 or 7 Qs lol… Currently still have 2 of them. The 007 and the Daniel Craig edition. Absolutely love the Qs!
Ted - your stuff is getting so strong. I appreciate your presentation on this one.
As a Q2 owner I couldn't agree more, its just the way they handle makes the whole process rewarding.
I own both versions of the Q2 and absolutely love them. Western Washington can be a little wet much of the year, so having a camera that is both resistant to moisture and has a great macro feature is definitely another plus for these high quality extremely versatile cameras.
How weather resistant? I keep seeing people talk about this but I don’t know what it means. Can I handle light rain, heavy rain? Thank you
The camera is rated to IP52. You can check those specs on line. I’ve used mine in light rain while composing and taking an image without any problem. I always carry a camera bag when going out in the rain and keep the camera in the bag for protection while walking around until I find my next subject. I never expose it to heavy driving type rain.
How does the macro compare to iPhone 13/14 Pro macro?
I've used my Q2 for street, and landscape, including long exposure. I couldn't be happier.
Using both M10 and Q2. Hard to beat the M with 50 Lux, but the Q2 got a special place in my heart.
And I agree, you buy the Q-lens and get the camera body for free. It’s an incredible lens.
Also, happy to see that people are talking about Leica all of a sudden without being sarcastic about the price level.
Very Jealous :)
doing a simillar thing, Sl2s with the SL lux long with the q2
Me wants
P
@@seempaq same!
I love my Q2M and can wait until 2023 when they come up with the Q3 and the M11 sensor :D
That would be awesome. You’ll probably get an even better sensor in it than the M11 though believe it or not 😊
After many months of contemplating, I pulled the trigger on a Q2 monochrome. I have absolutely zero regrets.
The Q2 is a beautiful camera and I have enjoyed using it over the past 12 months. It feels like a million dollars.👍
Thank you for the video, very well put. God and my wife know I spent a ton of money buying fixed lens cameras in the pursuit of the Q2, including Ricoh, Fuji and the Sony RX1RII, I finally bit the bullet and bought the Q2 last year and I could not be any happier, love the simplicity the response and EVF, the shallow depth of field at 28 is unreal, the photos are so sharp and the shadows well controlled. That said I think the IQ of the RX1 is superior including the dynamic range, however the dreadful EVF, and battery life on the Sony coupled with awful manual focusing experience make me reach for the Q2 almost always. The Q2 is such a pleasure to use and create with, it’s a keeper for sure
Yes. If Sony would put a better Z grade battery in the RX1RII, I'd be on board with it.
But the Rx2 has some good upgrades to the autofocus. Could it be a half priced option to the Q2?
@@JeanLucConnery I'd say also the Fuji X100V or X-E4 + 23mm lens. The problem is, no one has them in stock...
@@Hamsong I have a Xpro and the 16mm and while it’s a tolerable combo. It doesn’t come near the Rx1.
@@JeanLucConnery The original XP1? I'd say probably not and 16mm = 24mm, which is a little too wide for general use for me. Personally, I think the R1R2 is a solid choice, but suffers from the worst EVF in a mirrorless camera, at least at that price point. I was tempted by a used RX1R2 at a local shop at $1600USD, but even at that price, the loud AF, tiny EVF, less than ideal ergonomics and the generation 1 menu system just didn't appeal to me like less expensive cameras did. A new X100V, X-E4 + 35 f2 or a used Sony A7III + 35 f2.8 or f2 would be more flexible for about $1500. Of course, these are all much better deals that the Q2, which no one seems to be talking about it's primitive AF because it's a Leica. I owned a Q2 for about a week and it struggles to focus even in broad daylight, not to mention how it would do in the extreme low light that I work in professionally.
Oh hell yeah, I remember you from my introduction to photography course you did. Really good to see you still active on RUclips!
Excellent content, congratulations. Could you do more content with the Leica Q2 please, probably with the CL too. You have tried some telephoto converter with the Leica Q2, thank you, a big hug
The only feature I'm missing on my Q2 is a Live View zoom in the viewfinder that matches the selected focal length.
So it would look like you had a 75mm mounted on the lens for instance.
Way easier see details on the subject.
This could be used optionally if you like the current M-viewfinder-like experience of seeing around the subject.
I think it's intentional.... and actually, the way they have it... is the way that I would want it. When you change the mode to one of the effective focal lengths it is effectively mimicking a range finder and allows you to see what is about to walk into the frame. Maybe it's a setting somewhere that you can change?
I agree with both your comment and Dean’s. Just having the option would be great. My perfect setting would be if you could add a simple function that would 1. Turn live view zoom on and off and 2. A setting to preselect which crop gets the live view. Ie for me, I would never want it at 35 and rarely at 50 but would love for it to kick on at 75.
@@squiddah yup that sounds ideal.
I loved my original Q and I love my Q2 Monochrom. These are so much fun to use and I’ve always loved the files coming out of them. I throw a red filter on when I want high contrast black and white or an orange when I want it to be a little more manageable contrast
I bought x100v due to the price of q2, used it for a year.
But eventually ended up buying Q2 selling x100v and it’s absolutely worth it, Q2 is much more elevated experience along with brilliant IQ.
The Q2 Monochrom is a stunning camera and fit for taking amazing photographs for years to come
Hello, will grab my Leica Q2 Reporter edition this week in on of the Leica stores here in Paris. I was focused on getting the Monochrom version. They lend me for a few days (free of charge) the Monochrom version, but seems that even though I love B&W photography, I think the Q2 color version will suit more my needs. Leica's advise: if you do more than 80% of your shots in B&W, then the Monochrom version is the way to go, else prefer the regular version...
I love my original q I use it all the time I own a lot of other cameras and it is my favorite I would want to upgrade at some point but the original q has so much going for it and the additional mp are nice but not a must for how I use it
What I still don’t get is how cropping is equivalent as having other lenses. By this logic if I use Canon with a 16-35 f2.8 I could always crop in so no need to get a 70-200? And in that sense, wouldn’t an image shot with the 28mm cropped in still get its properties in terms of shaping and rendering as a 28 mm in the center, which is very different from a 35mm, 50mm and so on?
the only advantage I can see is that if you wanted to zoom in at 50 and 75 then the frame lines are there and help to frame more accurately .The mp count is so high ( 47mp full frame) that even losing quality through cropping your going to get very good quality.In that respect i see how it could be the equivalent of having a 26-30 MP camera and 3 different prime lenses( 28,50,75mm).
A negative is if you shoot at higher ISO then cropping makes the grain larger and more apparent
I was told by a Leica staff member in Wetzlar yesterday that a new Q will be not be released until next year.
Love your channel and videos. I am a hobbyist and selling my Sony A7IV and all my lenses and planning on getting a q2. Just tired of the whole feature heavy system and feeling uninspired. I hope I can slow down and experience more inspiration.
P.S. you said 2020 in your introduction, a mistake I make all the time 😄
Rather than a Leica Q3, if they released a Leica Q 35mm edition, now that would everything I ever wished for! A cropped 28mm is just not the same.
I would be banging down their door if they released a 35mm Leica Q! 28mm is just that little bit too wide, for me, where 35mm would be perfect.
@@paullhc Me too!
Me TOOOO!
35mm is a bit too close to 28mm but they will probably release a 40mm Q or maybe even call it something else :)
Two years ago I researched carefully before buying my Q2 to get a camera which fits my hands (as a woman photographer) as well avoiding the issue of cumbersome lens decisions. It fulfilled my needs so perfectly I purchased the Q2M to take a advantage of the greater tonal range without the conversion concerns of converting color images. It’s been worth the money but makes expanding to additional Leica cameras much too attractive. But it’s all OK!
Hi Claire, myself a lady too, was wondering if I m paying alot for Q2 when I can get the cheaper Q?
Your thoughts please. Thanks.
Q2 has great extra features (weather seal, larger pixel, better sensor, larger bokeh) but totally unnecessary for me.
So, What is stopping me from jumping to get a Q1 then ?
Firmware update can't be downloaded anymore.
I don’t see why not. Leicas retain their value very well. Q may not have all the features as the Q2 so check the differences and make sure the Q is acceptable for what you want to do. No matter what, it’s a great camera and a beautiful lens.
Right now (and really since I first got my hands on one) my dream camera is the Q2 Mono...such an amazingly functional piece of art. Someday looking to get a personal one.
Can we hang out and take pictures with our Q2's?
Just tell me when!
The Leica Q2 looks neat, but for the rest of us poors, I'm so grateful that there's the Fuji X100 series. My X100V has become my go-to for the same reason people would gravitate to this. Still, would be neat to try at a demo or rent one day...
Do you have any issues with the Fuji X100V overheating? I considered that camera, but after just trying it in the store, it was extremely hot. I eventually saved more and bought the Q2M.
@@ablueslenz it does get warm to the palm (especially in burst mode), but I've never had an overheating issue. I do have the habit of turning it off between photos though since the battery is so weak, so that may help me vs someone else.
On very rare occasion my X100V has become very slightly warm, barely noticeable. It performs excellently. I rarely use the JPEG film simulations as the RAW files look quite good.
Bought my Q. Love it! It does everything that I need, and Is still reliable. So I have kept it. It goes with me everywhere. Q3? Well, I don’t need one, but I would like one. And probably won’t get one 😊
Why the hell is everyone buying and talking about Q2 recently.. (Lol myself included)
a couple of years ago there was a sudden batch of “is the Leica SL still worth it?” videos from people that do Leica videos. I posted that there is likely a SL2 on the way soon and sure enough there was. Of course Leica wanted to clear old stock ahead of the introduction of a new camera and that appears to be what they’re doing here. Maybe not this year but I’d guess within 12 months.
@@mavfan1 good theory. Now I kind of believe it. Especially when I hear “disclaimer Leica sent this to me”
Another reason maybe is the Fujifilm x100v hasn’t been available for months.
Sales have probably slowed down. People were expecting a q3 this year, so i think Leica wants to make it clear it’s coming but not till next year.
I’m waiting for the Q3 haha
I picked up my Q2 a couple months ago and have loved it. It has made photography fun again.
I just got a Q2M used ,like brand new from B&H for a steal ,lol,not a mark ,nearly used. I have been enjoying it and my instagram has been growing since posting my new B&W photos.I bought it to print posters and print books
The Q2 Monochrom is a dream camera of mine. Above and beyond the design and image quality, the forced constraint would be really freeing.
Thank you for the video.. Been looking at a Q2 for a while now, talk to many who owned them. I only shoot photo, no video and a lot of street so it would make sense to me.
I have had the Q2 for a month now, and haven't used it for travel yet. Going on an extended trip for a month, and can't wait. The highlight priority exposure mode is the one I will use most; for photos and videos. All of my around the neighborhood testing shows that I can recover shadows very easily in both photo/videos and resulting pictures are magnificent.
Since I purchased my Q2 Monochrom, I have not shot with my D850. I thought I was going to hate not being able to change out lenses; however, it has not made a difference. I think I had fallen in love with my Nikkor 35mmAF on my D850 and using it so much that switching to the Q2 Monochrom with the 28mm and 35mm options was fairly natural. Even more, I carry the Q2M with me all.the.time. The latter is so important because I have been shooting more and surprising myself with what I see when I’m not looking.😊
I like the idea of the Q2 monochrome for doing tricolour separation photography. Could anyone tell me if the Q2M is truly panchromatic across the visual light spectrum, and if so what is the onboard white balance setting in degrees Kelvin? It looks like a very useable camera to me.
I aspire to own a Q2. It took almost everything I liked in the original Q and improved it just enough to replace the Q on my list of dream cameras. I can't justify it in any way except, "I want it." And that's ok.
If the following Q were a 35/40mm with faster autofocus. I would buy it in a heartbeat!
In an interview the Leica head of product confirmed they are releasing a Q3, and it will not be in 2022. 2023 earliest
I can honestly say that the Q2 produces some of the finest image quality I have ever seen in a digital camera, full stop.
Q3 won't arrive until sometime next year.
Q2 is the best camera that I'd used before. high-resolution & rich detail, typical Leica image style, accuracy focus, beautiful 28mm with full of storytelling perspective...... i cant find any better one than Q2.
Can we have a couple of videos discussing photography award shows and merits of the winning photos? I want to look at good photos, and then have some of them explained... like the "photo assignment - your photos" videos.
Would be super grateful if you shared the camera you used to film this video? The video is so crisp
I hope you don't mind.. I'm a huge fan of your channel for years. This video is good for me to say that right now I'm selling a Q2 with two months of use! If someone wants it, write me!
I bet you sell it fast!
Was in the process of selling my Leica T and lenses to buy a Q2 when your video came out… phew, good thing the ball was already rolling on that. V tempted by the monochrom but in the end went with standard as I want the photos of my kids in colour.
I just bought the D-lux 7 had it for two days... and I'm almost ready to sell all my Nikon gear for the Q2. I mean I just stumbled upon something very amazing and it's just a point and shoot. I'm a color blind person and I used to love the way Nikon rendered colors over the other auto-focus obsessed companies. but now that I look at the Lieaca colors I find them soothing to my eyes... I must be imagining this.
I would buy a Q2 or Q3 if it was made with a 50mm lens standard!
I'm over wide lenses and planning to pick up a M10P with a 50mm lens.
Miss my old M6 camera's
I have wanted to get my hands on a q2 since 2019. never had the cash. just recently was able to pick up an sony a7rii used off ebay to be my main camera. but have been looking for a fix lens viewfinder like camera. was thinking of getting the fuji x100 series but I dream about the q2! its remarkably beautiful with amazing shots.
I don't think the Q series is made for video, but hey since they put the SL2 sensor in there, they might as well give the option for someone that wants to record the occasionnal clip.
the thing I would like to see though, is a little mic jack implementation on the Q3. I don't care about HDMI, headphone, Log profiles etc, as long as there is a mic jack somewhere. A video can be good if its recorded internally, without Log, but a video with bad audio will always be a bad video no matter what. And a camera like the Q2, being a camera you bring along for a trip, travel etc, having the possibility to put a small microphone on top of it would be so good and would open so many possibilities for this camera.
Heck, I wouldn't even cared if Leica released an overpriced Leica branded accessory with a decent mic in it to stay streamlined with the camera's body design.
Also, it would be so nice if Leica released an updated version of the X1. That was a fun camera, but it is quite outdated by now
Hello, the B&W image at 6.27, was that shot on the Q2? Beautiful image.
Hi, several times I listened to your wording about Q2Monochrom! I tested all digital cameras to find the closest one to produce B&W nostalgic photos to remember my old school in university for 35 years ago. (P.S. I hate to take photo and make an image by digital software in post production!). Finally I found Fujifilm with having film simulation facility and then found out the phenomenal sensor on XPro1 which is so close to film photography. But, still when I look at photos by Q2M. I can feel something inside that I cannot describe and it’s a kind of spiritual enjoyment; I feel Art! Am I exaggerating? Am I wrong for my visual feeling? Shall I ignor camera brand and just take photos and make what I want in post?
Yes it is. It's just a matter if it fits your budget and you can justify having one. Latest firmware was a nice surprise having the highlight priority metering.
Great video, what was it shot on?
the 28mm is crazy, definitely one of the best modern lenses they produce, with the ability to crop and shoot macro, it's an obvious yes for me at least.
Well, the deal is sealed! I’ve been researching Q2 to determine whether to add to my equipment bag for several months. I appreciate your assessment. You’ve handed me the matches to light the candles! Here we go!!!
so why CL did not continue to CL2? it is still very sought out but discontinued . . .
I prefer the Fuji XT4 and using acros, you can see in black-and-white all the time and if you think something looks better in colour you have that option in editing your raw file. 🖖
question: does it have auto focusing the eye of the subject ?
random question: where is your shelf in the background from?
I think so. I bought one gently used, and can't get enough. My only complaint, it has switched to video when I didn't want it to. We should be able to completely disable the touchscreen (swiping intentionally or accidentally switches it, and it requires more persistence to switch it back, Not good.
Q2 specs don’t call for the price tag. We all know it. Recently I’ve seen multiple people talk about q2 and it always feels like they’re trying to defend their purchase, but can easily see the shortcomings of this camera. The truth is Leica doesn’t have the budget to compete with Sony or Canon, or even Fuji. All they can do is be a company with great history, that sells overprices cameras to people who care more about the esthetic of photography, than having the right tool. Having said all that, I really wish I had one 😂
Agreed and I wonder if it's because it is Leica?
They don't wanna compete with Sony.
@@tylerdurden2832 It doesn't matter if they want to or not. They can't. And I'm not talking about competing for sales. I'm talking about R&D and being able to create better and better cameras. Small companies have smaller budgets, and the difference in software and hardware quality will start leaving companies like leica behind, to the point where it will be "vintage" not only in style, but also in capabilities.
You don't buy a Leica instead of a Sony, Canon, Nikon or Fuji.... you buy it as well. It's the camera that a photographer wants to use outside of "work". Leica is not looking to compete with those companies... If they were they would not be hand-building cameras in Germany. So there is going to be a premium for that (and there quite rightly is). I think the reason that the Q2 is so popular is that a Summecron 28mm F2 by itself is $5K.... so getting an F1.7 with a body included for $5.8K is actually a pretty good value if you were looking to get into Leica. I have always been on the fence about buying a Leica. It's hard when you have a whole system.... I dont want to it be just another thing that I have to lug around with me.
The high price is part of the appeal, keeps it out of reach for most and creates this mystery about it. If Fuji offered a full frame X-pro body, it’d almost certainly be as good and most likely better.
I agree with everything you said in this video. I bought the Q2 Monochrom six months ago and I have to say, it is my favorite camera. Changing color filters reminds me of the film days. The IQ of the camera is outstanding and I believe it is worth the price tag. I sold my Fuji X100V after buying the Q2. I am contemplating just traveling with the Q2.
Well i bought filters too.. but actually don use very often. It is hard to take off and on sunshade and also.. i most of time shoot also people and even orange filter somehow make skin bit unnatural...
@ I still contend, that changing color filters reminds me of the film days.
I'm still using the original Q and it still works great. But I would love to test the Q2 monochrome and see if it is something for me. Given that a large proportion of my pictures are converted to black and white anyway.
Still rocking the rx1rii here. It's a pain to use, but the files are still gorgeous
Except for the hotshoe, I disagree with the your take on the audio for Leica’s Q2 video. I find it just fine to use an outside recorder and match the audio in post. But the hot shoe would make the most sense and a pretty cool feature.
I have several Sony cameras from a Nex7 to an A7R2 but the Q2 is the one I always have with me and use most. Using any of the other crop modes I know where and why I cropped when I took the shot and reminded during editing so that would be my 6th reason to your other five. Thanks for the video.
Does it have a leaf shutter like the RX2?
а7R3 + 28 2.0 or the Q2? Especially R3 is 2nd hand.
I love the idea of having a small camera always in my pocket. I got personally fed up with digital photography, I realised that I was just shooting without even thinking. Right now I’m using a Nikon 28ti as daily driver and this brought back the joy of shooting.
Don't be fooled...the Q2 is NOT a pocket camera.
I was about to say this. It's small and lightweight but you're not fitting it in your pocket like a Sony RX100, for example
@@GoodLifeInSpain I mean, not literally! But you can definitely have it with you daily, you throw it in your backpack and it’s fine
@@tomttl I understand. I've got a Q2 and, yes, it's small enough to throw into a little mini backpack type thing. I just meant that it's not as compact as some people try to make it out to be.
@@GoodLifeInSpain Fully understand, I have a Nikon 28ti as a daily pocket camera. That one really fits in your pocket, a pure joy to shoot with!
Can you add color in post with the monochrome raw images?
No. The sensor does not have any bayer filter to capture color.
I would definitely buy a q2 once the q3 gets released
I love my Q2. The major good thing is the weather sealing, which also means dust sealing.
just ordered my Q2 today… 50 plus years Nikon using photojournalist my first digital camera… should be fun for my luddite dinosaur personality…LOL… can’t wait !
Excellent review thank you. And now I know why they make a monochrome version! I have an A7iii and a good range of prime lenses but oh how I lust after a Q2.
What is a ‘deal’ price now on a Q?
Owning q2mono and absoluly happy.. using it daily is so much pleasure... I can not compate to x100 but i dont even want to :) i simply enjoy and use. While talking about tools.. i feel with q2 as with pro makita tools :)))
I have both Q2 and M10R w/50f1.4. Typically use Q2 for fast street shot, and M10R for more precise composition. This combo work very well for me.
Man, I am sooo frustrated with the Q2 on street. AF is useless and I don’t trust it, MF albeit being better than on any other AF lens, is still not even close to preciseness and haptics of a true M lens. I’m picking up my M10-P with 35 cron so much more often and it’s much more enjoyable camera.
Yeah and the distortion on Q lens is also very annoying
Owned the Q1 and liked it a lot more than I would have imagined. I use my MP240 more. I enjoy the process of making images with the M. The Q is more versatile. I still reach for my MP240 as my every day carry.
Thinking about switching my Leica Q to the Q2, mainly because Q2 has better video capability and has the same battery as my Leica SL2
How's the compression on 50mm crop vs 50mm prime?
i really want a q2 but the price makes me look at x100v
Different price point for a reason.
I absolutely adore this camera. I find that shooting at 35mm is the sweet spot for me. Still a whopping 30 megapixels, has frame lines to help composition and work with what's coming into your frame.
It is weather sealed, has IBIS, a leaf shutter, macro capability, 10 bit video, and can easily switch to zone focus,. My only gripe is that there is quite a bit of noise at higher ISOs (above 3200).
A lot of people say this camera is overpriced, but I actually think it's a great value. There is just no other camera with this combination of features.
@@hikertrashfilms He cropped to 35mm which lower the resolution.
I have a Panasonic GX9 with the Leica 15/f1,7 and not missing anything. And i'm not always worried about someone stealing my camera ;)
I currently rock a nikon z6ii with the 24-70 2.8.
I only ever shoot pics of my kids and family life, plus the odd landscape.
I can't get the q2 ( especially the mono) out of my head. Smaller form factor, more pixels and that leica sauce...
Is this just nonsense and I'm actually better off with my current set up? or am I onto something....the only thing that scares me is lack of reach and autofocus.
I have the Q2 , and also Laica CL with 35 1.4 . Great combo , Great photos. Sometimes I used them together for events, party and I some “light” wedding. In only 1,5 kilo 2 amazing cameras .
Since I still shoot with a much older M240 that is most definitly worth it to me in 2022 then the Q and Q2 are also... Nice video..
Doesn't the Q2 use a Summilux lens?
I got the q2 monochrome reporter a month or so ago and I love it
I REALLY wish Canon would put in a crop trigger on the 33mp APS-C cameras that used the same framing lines. I would hands down run a 35mm equivalent prime with a 40 to 50mm crop guide or 50mm equivalent prime with a 75-85mm crop guide all the time if it would still get me at least the ~16mp image. I've actually used an M6 Mark II quite a bit in medium mode that puts out a ~16mp image that has crazy good dynamic range in the resolution I prefer the most for my day-to-day images.
I have used an X100V with the 50mm crop mode and I like the OVF having area outside the frame, but the way Leica has done it in the Q2 by emulating rangefinder guides is the best possible way to do a crop mode IMO. You get the benefit of a rangefinder in that you get to see outside of the frame while composing a shot, it's a no brainer instead of just zooming into the crop like every other crop mode/digital telephoto does. The even more massive X-H2 resolution would be great to implement this type of framing option for crop mode even if it's emulating a rangefinder feature on a slr style body (dumb to mention, but I know there are tons of people that would see the feature axed or changed just because of this reasoning).
Thank you for this informative upload. As a request, could you please consider keeping yourself in the same constant frame in future videos, rather than zooming in and out for each sentence 🙏🏻
Just trying to decide if I am going to buy one. I haven't been shooting in ages and want something I can take everywhere
I keep thinking someone ought to release a fairly compact fixed lens FF camera with a 50mm lens, at least f/1.8 or faster. If it’s Leica, I’ll never be able to afford it, but someone ought to make one. With a lens like that, it’ll be the “portrait compact.”
While the FF vs Crop Sensor debate is often largely irrelevant, this is certainly a camera where the shallower depth of field at standard working distances would be important. Meanwhile, I really think it ought to be a 50. Insert discourse about the 50 being the soul and history of photography, but also there are a lot of good compact cameras on the wider end. That combination of a longer absolute focal length and a fast aperture would just open up a different aesthetic in the compact fixed lens camera segment.
Toss in a build-in fill flash and ND filter to go with the leaf shutter? It’d be fantastic.
Totally agree. I love mine.
Heck, it's still worth it in 2024! I own a Q2 Monochrom, but with the recent price reduction on the Q2 - and the features/upgrades of the Q3 that I didn't find critical - I just purchased a brand new Q2.
Great vid! Clear, extensive, sharp. Thx
I’m on Fuji now, but a Q3 monochrome might be in my future. My last Leica was an M6, I mostly shot B&W with it and made some of my best images ever. I loved my M6…
Great video! I am looking into Q2 and/or D-Lux7..