Leica Ms are something you have to get out of your system. The M11 was my dream camera. After owning one for two months, it's definitely not my dream camera any more. Getting focus on moving subjects with a 75mm lens at F2 is a fools errand. The 21mm super elmar has a lovely form factor, but there is nothing special about its image quality -- especially for its price. I didn't realize how much I cherish IBIS until not having it. I do think an M with a Summilux 35mm is a special combo that makes magic happen. If you're thinking of an M, just start with the camera and single 35mm or 50mm lens. Don't give up your other camera for one.
I say this as a life long Leica M shooter, these days you only get a Leica M if you want the manual digital rangefinder experience. that's it. I've been shooting on manual focus cameras ever since I got into photography and I never needed to "upgrade" to auto focus cameras. I use my phone for that stuff. Some people think Leica M is some magical camera that will make every picture they take amazing. Of course this is not true. Some folks don't even realize Leica Ms are manual focus only.
Shooting moving objects on an M with a 75mm @f2 is “quite” challenging :-). As with so many other tools, each camera has its strengths and weaknesses. Each genre demands a different tool/ camera. Depending on what your main photography topic is a Leica M may fit or not.
I decided to get back into photography two years ago after a decade of being away from it. Going from shooting on film and mainly using manual setups to the world of mirrorless camera was a big jump and I wanted something that could give me the best of both worlds so I ended up getting a Fujifilm XT4. I love the camera all around but one of the things I love about it is having all the dials on top to control everything in an instant without digging through menus. 90% of the time I'm running it in all manual mode. I'll even set the ISO and leave it until I've shot the equivalent of a roll of film, I won't even change film stock profiles until I've gone through a rolls worth of shots. It makes me feel more in tune with the process and it was one of the reasons why I fell in love with photography in the first place. Before I bought it I also tried the Sony a7iii and absolutely hated the experience using it because it was so far removed from what I wanted in a camera. The experience felt no different than pulling my phone out of my pocket and hitting a button to take a picture. Still was a great camera and had a lot of cool tech in it but to me it was the equivalent of using an AI art generating program instead of picking up a paint brush.
Gotta say, I bought my Leica for both reasons. The stripped back experience I felt like gave me more room to grow. Since buying it, I now love the experience of Leica. Is it worth the price-tag? no. Will I sell it for a more cost effective camera system? no.
I would highly recommend the original Leica Q. Coming from a film background I wanted something really stripped back. The £2k price tag is much more affordable than an M series, and the Summilux 28mm attached is incredible (retails at £6k as a standalone lens) instead of compromising on more affordable glass when buying into an M body. Plus a bonus my wife can go fully auto mode and auto focus with a simple switch of a dial to snap photos of the kids!
This is all too common with Leica, unfortunately. Not many photographers can actually afford them. Many buy them, but later sell because they can’t actually afford to hang on to them I.e afford them in the first place. The copium around future value is what drives the initial purchase, I suspect. Wonderful cameras, but a luxury brand that has priced itself out of most of our pockets. Cheers
The thing is, Leica is selling more cameras in the last 18 months than they have for decades, back before they were tools. Leica are actually having a resurgence and for the life of me I cannot understand why but younger photographers have gone for them
@@medes5597 From all I've seen as a photography outsider, Leica seems very equivalent to Rolex in the watch world. Yes, they are good, even great, but there are better (or at least, just as capable) competitors for often substantially less money. But the brand 'reputation' is the reason most laypeople buy them, and the actual enthusiasts tend to stay away. Many young people are very much about recognizable brand names, and often in hobbies, are doing it for the *ahem* 'image' rather than for passion or even to turn it into a career. Or even to keep up with trends on socials. (like the Fujifilm X100V selling out everywhere and having a 6+ month backlog because of TikTok, not because photographers have demand for it :\ ) The people who buy Rolex are often not using it to tell the time, but their smartwatch/phone. In the same vein I'd wager most people who buy Leicas use it maybe for 10% of their photos, and their phone for the other 90%.
Thanks for the update! I have an M11 and a Sony a7rv. I also mostly shoot my two boys of 5 and 6 which makes it frustrating to use the M11. I cannot justify keeping it around and, like you, I don't think the image quality is anything above the Sony. At least with the Sony, I can snap a picture one-handed of the kids while juggling a bag, a picnic, and a soccer ball and still nail the picture :) Keep us updated if you get anything else.
I switched from manual focus to auto focus lenses when my children were younger. Now I returned to manual focus again meaning that I have to accept misfires. But what I also found out is that these misfires also add character and dynamics to the picture. But yes, sometimes it is just frustrating that I didn’t nail focus. My solution is to shoot at f8 and apply zone focusing.
I totally get it. As a person myself that's changed systems many many times, what you think will be ideal just isn't what you expected. Good luck with your future gear :)
Yes, my experience is kind of learning by doing. I switched gear many times as well. One of the lessons I learned is that I perhaps should have rented some gear first before buying it. Well, in the end I arrived at the tools that work for me and inspire to take with me.
If you like the classic tactile and manual feel but also want modern features, why not something like an X-T5? You can easily switch it to all manual and use the buttons and the dials. And you can switch it back and it's a totally modern camera.
Not all, there are people that are immune to the Leica Virus. It took me more than a decade to get it under control and to be content with a simple Leica IIIf and a few decent lenses (I have to admit that it is quite hard, but a lack of money helps ;-)).
@@jameskezman personally on my film Leica i prefer the Zeiss and voigtlander glass. Idk what you mean about m mount lenses not being small though? They're smaller than APSC lenses a lot of the time
@@CianMcsweeney My 'lighter than' comment was about other manufacturer's lenses, e.g. the new big Z-mount teles from Nikon are lighter and cheaper than their F-mount siblings. I should have been more specific! RE: Zeiss. Love their lenses - the Planar 50/2 has been my 50 for 12 years! I will though, one day, own again a Summilux 35 FLE. The look of that lens is something special.
I bought my M11 about 4 months ago and I love every aspect of it. The rangefinder experience, build quality, the clean menu system, the Leica app is hands down the best. It’s a full frame camera with amazing lenses on such a compact body. However, I’m selling it to get a Q3. I have a 3 years old daughter and can’t focus fast enough. I just miss a lot of shots and moments because of that, although when I nail focus I feel much more “rewarded”. Definitely a difficult decision, but now that I know what is it like shooting with a Leica, it’s hard to turn back.
Maybe you could use hyperfocal so the m11 becomes a point and shoot. You would just have to put your subject in the right distance corresponding to the focal you're using. Random example, you know you gonna be in a bright space, f8, set up your distances like 1.5 to 7m and you'll get acceptable sharpness if your baby is in that range.
You can get a different camera to photograph kids, it does not have to be leica :) You can get some used Sony that will do it just fine, or better than Q3 for something like $1k. And keep m11 for other uses.
I understand where you're coming from. I traded in my M10 for the Leica SL2. Very happy but its high ISO performance left me wanting. When I bought it, I switched to Sigma's DG DN Art lenses. Wonderful together! When the SL2-S was released with its 24MP BSI sensor, I switched to it and I'm glad I did. The 24MP results is approx. 45MB DNG files. More than enough for me. The SL2-S is much better in low light and I even have the auto ISO set to 25,000. It's sensor captures more light than the SL2 did and terrific for my needs. Performs terrifically with the Sigma Art lenses. I'm happy!
I get it. Cameras are tools and you pick the right tool for the job. I own two digital Ms. They are older models and I think that I will move to the Q3 as the limitations of the Ms are becoming more evident the older I get!
@@peetje28021970 Empathy would be nice. We will all age one day and our eyesight will deteriorate.Just one of the undesirable state of ageing process... Our day will come...
RUclips reviews are a little biased towards video, because every RUclipsr wants and needs a camera that can do video. Camera manufacturers might even bump up video specs to please RUclipsrs, as the influence a lot of buying decisions. My problem with video is that video warms up the camera and as a result noise slightly increases even for stills. That is not noticeable during the day, but at low light with high ISO. Even turning on a mirrorless camera already warms up the sensor and increases noise. I wish they would still offer DSLRs with the latest sensors.
Imo there's a huge gap in the market for a Leica competitor that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Ofc it still would be expensive since an optical rangefinder costs a lot to make, it just doesn't cost as much as Leica wants us to think 😂
I have my poor man's Leica. A7RIII with three adapted Carl Zeiss lenses (Distagon 2.8/21, 2/35 and Planar 1.4/85) I rescued from my huge Pentax sell off last year. Less really is more.
you should just try the SL2. Much cheaper lenses cause you can get sigma/Lumix lenses + you have very good quality videos, you basically press 1 button and you switch from photo ot video mode with previous settings saved. You still have all the Leica stuff + usability of a modern camera if needed
An ex-film Leica photographer here (M6 & M2). I swapped from Leica to Nikon, and from Nikon to Canon. Then from Canon to Konica-Minolta, then from Konica-Minolta to Lumix. But for the last 10 years, I've been using exclusively Olympus and I haven't looked back. A little dabbling with Ricoh has also happened (a great and 'inexpensive' alternative to Leica), but Olympus still rules the roost. That all said, I wish digital cameras would remove all the fancy bits, and returned to the simplistic beauty of the manual camera - I shoot exclusively in manual on my Olympus cameras, shooting almost entirely using hyperfocal distance.
@@GT-hk8dy They're [Olympus] small, lightweight and I have many of the pro-lenses as well as primes. The quality of Olympus lenses is incredible and the pro-lenses are also weather-sealed and built like a tank. The cameras are also fast to use. But best of all, and unlike Canon or Nikon, Olympus cameras aren't classed as 'professional' by insurance companies/brokers, meaning they are covered by basic household contents insurance, the former of which is several hundred, even thousands to insure.
I agree wholeheartedly with your opinion about over-specified cameras. Part of the enjoyment is in manual handling. That's why I like older, simpler dslr's.
@@suspiciousstew1169 I think he meant both. Personally I love the simplicity of the Leica Ms and the simplicity in using it. I made pictures with Canon, Nikon, and Sony cameras. But the M really nails it for me.
i feel the same way for the modern cameras removing the fun of taking photos, so i went back to film 3 years ago and i still can t stop loving the process. digital is digital, film is film, each have their purposes. I would advise you to try it out.
I think you would be more interested by an xpro4 if it comes with a higher megapixels count (45) and if it keeps the actual basic video capabilities (4k flog 200mbps).
I am ready to hear more about your work. For instance, tell us more about this business of mixing human structures and people into your landscapes. Also, who are your influences?
I had a M10P until my left hand met a scissor, and the scissor won by a wide margin. Manual focus is no longer in the cards and sadly I sold it. If my hand was intact, I would definitely have the Monochrom! I had several Leica M lenses (35/1.4, 50/1.4,90 f2) and they performed well. I tried Zeiss, Cosina and others, but I didn't get the 'Leica look'. The microprisms on the sensor really are matched to the lenses to get that sensor coverage with the tiny M lenses. I also have a SL2 and several L lenses, and I find the same with third party L glass. About 20% of the time I get the 'Leica look', which to me is more 3 dimensional- spooky sometimes how much so- than my previous Sony, Canon or Nikon lenses ever produced. Whether that's the micro contrast thing, I have no idea. It's there, just rare. Colors and sharpness really are impressive, especially wide open; not much post work needed (Capture One). Whether it's worth the price of admission for that 15 to 20% is the question (it is for me). Cheers!
Really sorry about your hand. My happy setup is a Sony A7CR (same sensor as the Q3 & M11) and several Voigtländer lenses (+ a long zoom for sport events). So I can have the arty look most of the time, or go easy and auto-focus or zoom when needed.
I had for a very long time an M6 TTL with a few Leica lenses. Very very nice, but I was born and raised with SLRs, and the telemeter viewfinder always felt a bit awkward to me. Now I use a rather quirky Sigma fp, and am happy with its quirkiness, but after having searched for something more engaging, without any video functionality, I think I know what will be my next camera, when the finances allow it: Hasselblad X2D! I looked at some alternatives and other FF mirrorless, but each time they lack something, or have simply too much stuff, let alone all the video functions I never ever use... Great Video James by the way. As always :-)
I can recommend the Hasselblad X cameras. I am still working with the X1D mark i. Again the simplicity of the camera and simplicity in using the camera is what I really like. Plus the image quality is stunning of the X1D. So I can only imagine what the image quality is of the X2D.
@@OAlBraun The sony specific version does have some benefits, though. You can set it up for the camera to automatically punch in when you twist the focus, you get full exif, profile correction...
Get ready for negative sticker shock as used M11's are being bought by dealers at 50 cents on the dollar (I guess that its 50 pence on the pound over there). The M11has not held its value due to lock up issues from early production units. I just picked a used Chrome Silver M11 for $7000 (that includes tax) from my local authorized Leica dealer. Crutchfield had an new open box unit (full warranty), that sold last week for $7200.
I for one am happy with my R5 and all its bells and whistles. Better to have them and not need them, than to need them and not have them. I have lots of fun when shooting manually, plus all the tech makes difficult shoots much less so.
I have a Leica. Film, so no video, which I don’t need. The camera is great and most of all easy to use. Just the basics and as an amateur, that’s all I need. TAKING pictures is what I love, and based on years of of trial and error, decide on the depth of field and adjustment of exposure. Relying on my brain and fingers. Not on menus. As for price, yes it is way too expensive. Perhaps a hidden snobbish side? Rationalising that I can always sell it at a good price? Thanks for the tip of pushing up the blacks under certain circumstances.
I would really like to know if you have had any freezes during the time you have been using your Leica M11? I've had mine for 9 months and the constant freezes and even firmware errors get on my nerves pretty regularly.
The main thing with Leica is it doesn’t get in the way. So you aren’t distracted. But then if you have to do videos at the same time etc… you are distracted anyway :)
Sorry, that's the kind of canned line people like to trot out about Leica M bodies but it's not true. They ABSOLUTELY get in the way if you wear glasses, because the rangefinder is not great to use if you wear eyeglasses. And they get in the way with the central focus patch, so you can't shoot the lovely fast lenses wide open with an off-center subject without a lot of luck on your side, or a very steady subject. If you're left-eye dominant (like me) then the entire rangefinder layout becomes useless, because they're meant to be used with the right eye. All the Leica fans love to talk about the camera not blocking your face so you can interact with the world/subjects, but if your eye dominance is different then none of that matters. What I can say is that people who actually have spent real time shooting with a Leica M is that they're honest that it IS a distraction, and it DOES get in the way, but they claim they like that and it helps their photography somehow.
I was thinking recently about the idea of going manual but thought that if that's what I wanted by not just set all the setting to full manual on my camera. Don't you come out with the same result but without buying another camera? Just a thought.
I can tell you, i said two times good bye and bought for the 3rd time one. Once you had one, every other camera seems to be a toy. The build qualitiy and shooting vibe is unique.
Leica does not and never has had a monopoly on quality, buying a luxury car doesn't make you a good driver, instead it makes you excuse your horrid behaviors and habits behind the purchase. Leice shooters are just photographic wine snobs where money has a direct and exclusive monopoly on perceived quality. A blurry poorly exposed image of the back of someone's head is just bad until someone says it was taken on a leica, and then its fine street art.
@@flynnbrowning5685 so wrong. You can pick up a good used Leica for less than the price of a new Sony/Nikon/whatever. My used Q is fantastic, the user experience is unique, it’s fun, it’s engaging, the image quality is outstanding and it’s better than my Sony for street photography. Nothing to do with money or snobbery, at least not in my case.
@@flynnbrowning5685 Just check out the young Leica generation, their creativity, their work and you will eat your own words. The Leica M System is for many artists the way to express themeselfs in a time where everything is pushed with tech we dont need. Its a beautiful simple tool to create art. Thats why we choose Leica. I can create my work with every camera on the market but my choice, my tool is a Leica M9P with a beautiful 50years old Summicron which feels brand new and creates a timeless look out of pocket. Cheers.
@@julesc5571sorry but you’re wrong. Leicas on the used market cost more. A sony a7iii is far superior to most digital M’s. The only worthwhile digital M cameras are the m10 and M11 which are both overpriced snobby cameras. The functionality is not better than sony canon or Nikon. You pay more for less. It’s not worth the investment for anything commercial. They are enthusiast and hobbyist cameras. Not useful in the digital world in comparison to top end sony Nikon and canon. Leica m10/m11 are between 4 and 9 thousand. A Sony a7r iv is less than 3k on the used market. Do your research first.
You should do a video on hayfever and photography - it's the niche RUclips never knew it needed. I have a personal strategy of packing hydrating eye drops and having a few squirts of Beconase before going out, working like a charm.
I couldn't decide whether or not I wanted a Q2 or Q2M, so I now have both. Sure, I can convert to mono in post, but the files from the Q2M are superb so I have reduced my time in front of the computer while increasing my time behind the camera. Win-win.
Thats right, I own a few cameras including Leica and Sony, but I have used a 5x4 since 2005 and find the experience the most engaging and rewarding. Trouble is, other people only want easy and cant be bothered to try.
If you like the Leica M11 experience but need to shoot video (and at a lower price), then why don't you purchase a Leica Q2? Of course, you'll need to live with the 28mm fixed lens but other than that I would highly recommend it. I've had my Q2 for over a year and love it. Right now I don't suggest the Q3 as it costs more than the Q2 and I've been hearing many stories about constant freezes.
WOW!!! So many opinions about James’ motivations for buying and then selling a camera of any kind. James will obviously do whatever suits his needs for his style of work and workflow just as everyone else that picks up a camera. I applaud your willingness to at least try something new James. Keep doing “you” sir and I’ll just keep enjoying your content. All the best to you from the flat state of Illinois in the good old USA. Cheers! 😊🍺🍻
After watching your video, I think your opinion of the Leica images has tipped the scales for me to despatch of my M10 to MPB. Posted today. I Loved the rangefinder camera & the images (for about 2 years). However even if I did think the images had a "special look". However, as you pointed out, maybe not that much better than some of the new cameras high MP on the market. When I compared my 24mp images to my Hasselblad X1D, I think there is absolutely no contest in every way. I chopped my Leica in for the Fuji GFX 50S II + Lens. If the images from it are even close to my X1D's, I will be very happy (I hope). I think the Fuji has a few more bells and whistles than the Hasselblad's at a more realistic price. Not one for video, I do have the X-T5 if it's required. My resignation to the Leica club is in the post :). Thanks again for another great video.
Have you still got a Fuji? Get an M-Mount to X-Mount Adapter, Fuji make them. I occasionally use a Leica 35mm Summicron with my X-T4 with excellent results.
“Liked.” I respect and understand your decision. I will keep a Leica M camera, because one special M-mount lens makes it worth it. The Summilux-M 50mm ASPH’s distinctive background blur cannot be faked, in post-processing, and even it it could, I do not like sitting at a computer, to manipulate backgrounds. The minimalist body, that is so dissimilar to a video game controller, is an added bonus. The rangefinder focusing system is a fascinating mechanical marvel; another bonus. What little video I shoot can be accomplished with an iPhone. I still have my DSLR equipment, for anything that an M camera cannot do, such as serious macro, and birds/wildlife/action. I have added other M-mount lenses, with Zeiss ZM and Voigtlander VM among them, but it is the Summilux-M 50mm ASPH that makes the Leica M system worth keeping.
Well we're just around mid-winter and the shortest days of our year down here. The long days will be on their way back soon, hang in there, maybe do some night shooting while you wait ;-)
Hej James, I really understand the reason to shoot a simple camera without every hi tech things in it. I've got a very good Sony Equipment with some very great GM-Lenses but sold it because of the distanced feeling of shooting this cameras. What I really like is setting all my settings manually with a Dial. So the choice was a Fuji X-Pro3 for shooting and a XT-4 for Video. But I really don't think that it is an absolute need to film a YT-Video with a big mirrorless camera. Now my absolutely small and light setup is a Leica M6, Leica M262 and a DJI Pocket 2 for Video and RUclips. The videoquality this little thing delivers is outstanding! I think selling the M11 is okay, but as I were you, I would look for a M10 or a M240 instead. Greetings and Inspirations from Germany.
I hear ya. I’ve owned colour Leica’s before and they’re amazing, but not entirely enough so. I’ve got a M10 monochrom now, and it’s absolutely lovely. I’d suggest trying one if you can. But (There’s always a but) The Q3 is massively tempting. I also shoot film, and I’m drawn to the MP / new M6. Not sure what I’m gonna do
my main issue with he Leica's are the blown highlights. For a street camera with high contrast and unpredictable lighting, it''s a problem that you have to shoot around. The Fujis's, om the other hand, have a DR 400 mode that effectively remaps the DR closer to the shadows, allowing for 3-5 stops of highlight retention, while automatically bringing up your shadows and miss n camera. Works in raw too.. This is a limitation o the sensors today: that anything at white, I;e. 100% luminance, clips instantly. Cosseting that this is at the OPPOSITE of film, I wonder why camera companies led for this.. perhaps it's to tough low light advantages. but it goes against what tile has done for a centrality: discarding what the eye do to see..i.e. shadows.... Fuji approach, while sacrificing some DR in the blacks, allow you to shoot normally, giving you both headroom nd highlight falloff curves, to naturally roll off highlights and retain detail in said highlights. Canon does this with highlight priority mode... thanks to all of the bridezillas and their white dresses clipping.. Dunno why Leica doesn't have such a mode. It would be a killer.
My two pence worth, shooting M(6) film Leica for a couple of decades. They are primarily wide( ish) angle to normal, 28-50mm, 28mm was my favourite) within those parameters and for, let's say, non too lively subjects, the bright line finder made them probably the finest image making cameras ever. Rather than composing by the viewfinder al la SLR/mirrorless, one places the frame over the scene/subject while being able to see outside the frame and make adjustments.
if you have a full frame camera (35mm sensor), I don't think you need more than that... maybe another one specialised for video. But that's really all what a pro photographer needs
James, theres a Go Pro mount called 'Snap Mount' (Not indosed, I bought one). It's a ultra strong magnet that clips under your t-shirt. Just a idea if you find that Go Pro chest mount straps constricting in the heat waves! ....Also I bought my Leica M10 from MPB. ...I rekon next months video will be you miss the Leica hahahahaa
I have Nikon Z7, Ricoh GR 3x and an OM-1. Probably cost the same as your Leica. I know what I would rather have . If I was a consultant I would have the Leica as well.
I would love to save up money for an M11 but I would instantly regret it because I can do a lot with that kind of cash lol. I really think Leica should make an affordable rangefinder for the majority of the mass because everyone wants a Leica.
I actually just bought an xpro2 because I wanted to try out the rangefinder style. That plus a x mount manual focus lens and it will set you back at most 1500 pounds.
I could’ve bought a Q2 or Q3 but everytime i pickup my panasonic gx85 with panasonic leica 15mm f1.7 i realize i dont need a leica. Got myself sony a7r5 for paid work. My gx85 is my edc which i love. Those who cant afford Leica - try gx85/gx80 with panaleica 15mm f1.7. It is fun experience! :)
If you wanted to be detached from the digital side of photography, you should have either found an M10-D, or got one of the Pixii's that shares the same mindset as the M10-D. No rear display, only physical dials (in the case of the M10-D) and the rangefinder. I picked up an M10-D off a friend that has more money than sense and thought they wanted to be as close to film as possible experience wise. Turns out they definitely didn't, managed to drop it doing a bit of cosmetic damage but nothing else, and shelving it. I was going to flip it, but I ended up keeping it as a digital option to natively shoot my Minolta CLE and Zeiss Ikon m-mount lenses. There's also always the Fuji X-Pro 3, basically the only non-brand new body that can be found in stock or used for an alright price compared to MSRP new. Turns out the Fuji nerds didn't quite want to go that far into the physical/film world aesthetic, and not many bought them. The X-Pro 2 prices are creeping up used to way too close to an X-Pro 3 used. I got one from the same rich friend that upgraded to an X-T5. I like the hidden screen that still tilts for waist-level shots, it's great. With how prices are going, I'm probably going to flip the M10-D and just adapt the lenses to my Sigma fp or X-Pro 3.
The M11 looks lovely but that price. Did purchase the q3 which im on day 2 of using it. I'm loving the form factor and the fact there's not that many buttons. Same sensor as the M11 and the Q3 does video.
I feel like the Leica experience is more for gearheads. New camera tech is only a problem if the tech does something you don’t want to do, overriding your creative process. Speaking for digital, I honestly can’t tell the images of different camera systems apart unless I’m looking at jpegs straight out of the camera. But for edited raws, the photographer’s vision usually overwrites whatever micro differences a camera system provides.
@@bastiaan.alexander the fact that people, including photographers, can't reliability tell under a blind test what camera body a photo was shot with. There's just too much transformation in the development process.
@@DMurdock :-( I don’t want to argue, but I disagree. Perhaps for some but not to all. To me it is not a prestige item. Yes, I’m thankful that I was able to put aside some money and find a few good deals. But it wasn’t prestige that lured me into Leica M cameras. It was the simplicity, the experience of a range finder, the small format of the lenses and the quality of these lenses, and an overall compact package. This package gives good to very good full frame results. Not per se better, but can compete with the finest full frame results produced by DSLRs and system cameras. What I also like about the Leica raw files is that I do not have to spend much time on post-processing. Before the M I had a Sony a7r ii and a7 iii with Zeiss Batis lenses and Minolta Rokkors, but I was always struggling with the colors during post-processing. Ultimately the cameras were collecting dust in my drawer. So to me, bottom line, the Leica M inspires me to go out and make pictures, and I get the result I want. Nothing to do with prestige.
For me as a car guy, it's like comparing a Tesla model X and a 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo. The Tesla can do it all, faster better and almost by itself, and for some people that is king. The old 911 is slower, more cumbersome, but, and there is a BIG butt. For some people the 911 is all about how it feels to use, and not how fast it is. I would never get a Leica, Ill stick with my BMW 635 Csi and a Sony A7II with vintage manual optics. 👌
Some of these comments are absolutely wild… Sounds like a smart decision! Love the videos. You might really enjoy the SL2/SL2s. Kind of like a perfect combo of both the Sony and the M11.
I find similar images shot via my Leica X and Nikon Df - while the Df has a wider dynamic range, and is better in lowlight situations. The X produces images that have a different look, no idea if it is the sensor or the Leica lens - but they just do.
I'm a Leica M10 owner and from what I've seen, all of the older digital Leica rangefinders have their own little issues. I'm glad that the M11 seems to be less idiosyncratic than the previous models, but I'm not enthusiastic enough to pay $9000 for one. I'd say that anyone looking to get into a used Leica digital rangefinder should really do some homework before you buy. There's lots of Leica hype out there on the intertube and factual information is harder to find.
i love my M11 but I am not a video shooter. I have several Leicas and though I have been a professional photographer and used Fuji, Nikon, and Canon I have always gone back to Leica even with its quirks. However I have no time for MPB. I have sent then excellent gear which they have downgraded but given to another online firm got the full amount or more and find they undervalue equipment. Just this week I sold a Leia 35mm f2.5 for £900 when MPB offered me £640 and I am sure they would have reduced that on receipt. rather buy and sell through local camera shops.
Basic black M11 and (the cheapest 50mm l could see) Summicron 50 f2 lens, approximately A$18,000. So, err, it’s a no from me and an “expletive deleted” from my darling wife. Oh, the light in the intersection shot v2 is lovely. Thanks James.
@@raksh9 Hard to say because I take different kits for different situations. The Nikon Z7 II and 24-120 f/4 was for almost a year my kit with my Q2 if I knew it was just typical travel photos. The OM-1 and M43 equiv of the holy trinity plus the 100-400mm if I really didn't know what I might see or want to photograph but the Q2 still came along. Just no comparing a ff kit and an M43 kit weight wise.
@@NikonDave Good kits for travel! My two cam kit is the Leica M9 with a 35 and 50, and a m43 kit like the Panasonic GX85 with 12, 25 and 45 for complementary focal lengths. I've traveled with the 5D Mark II and 24-105 and 35, but obviously found this a little heavy over the course of a solid day of walking. I've considered getting a Panasonic 12-60 for versatility and using an Olympus f1.2 prime for extra low light.
Here in Canada the M11 is ~ CAD $12,000 and that is BODY ONLY! How anyone can justify that price is beyond my comprehension. Add a Voightlander or a Zeiss 50mm f2.0 to that, and then add the 12% sales tax in my province, and you are at ~ $15,000.
You gotta use Leica lenses mostly with it. Preferable with some character. if you use just a perfect IQ sterile lens like the Voigtlander APO- you might as well shoot a Sony. There’s no difference.
Watching this and previous video, I wish next videos will have same scene with GX1 😂 I just saw you test gx1 on street photos, wanna see how it performs in landscape photos 🙆
Leica's are incredibly specific. It's basically s tier for street photography and documentary and that's it. Yeah you can shoot portraits with it, but why would you. They're just not for most people and that's not even about elitism. An A7IV, Nikon z7ii, canon R5/6 and even a panasonic s1 are better for more things for more people.
Do you personally use Mpb? I’ve made two purchases and both were faulty when sold as used but functional. I’m asking because your videos directed me to Mpb and I don’t know if others have the same issues as myself.
on a recent walk in a local nature preserve i tried smth similar. I cheated a little because the camera i remember most i owned myself was one of them smaller canon things with those aps something 45 shot films? Anyhow, that was my limitation. I only allowed me to ignore it when a grey heron flew over a lake full of sea roses and just so happend to pass over a still water bit where he reflected nicely. I had no time to switch to rapid fire n such, (im mostly on Aperture Priority because i tend to forget things and often misjudge exposure when conditions change a lot... ). Just a couple of shutter presses. But it was fun just to focus down. I tend to double tap wayy to often instead of slowing down and ensuring a sharp good picture that way.
Mr popsys what do you want at this point? I get it gear is fun to use but every other video there's another camera. Just go back to micro four thirds at this point.
I saw you on RUclips as the subject of an advert, several minutes long could have been for MPB. Anyway you showed the Sony A7R4 and I’m pretty sure it had your pretend Leica sticker on it ! Fine for followers of the Chanel but a bit confusing for everyone else 😂
My other hobby is beekeeping and lots of our customers say that local honey has helped their hay fever, however there is no scientific evidence to support this.
Then why not try Fuji? Look and feel of a Leica, retro controls, but switch a toggle and enable fast AF and 4K video? X-Pro, X-E or X-T series specifically
It's still not a true rangefinder experience tho. While Fujifilm does help with feeling that niche, people will always want a Leica. There needs to be a brand new affordable interchangeable rangefinder that competes with Leica.
Why is the xpro line not a true rangefinder experience? You can solely use the optical viewfinder and get a manual focus lens. The focusing with the rangefinder isn’t exactly the same as on a Leica as there is a small digital helper but it’s 95% of that experience especially if you are zone focusing
Fuji is modern tech in a retro body. M series is classic mechanics recording to silicon. For those who just want the retro feel hit home with film simulations, Fuji is great. They're great all around, really. They aren't alternatives for the M, though.
Leica Ms are something you have to get out of your system. The M11 was my dream camera. After owning one for two months, it's definitely not my dream camera any more. Getting focus on moving subjects with a 75mm lens at F2 is a fools errand. The 21mm super elmar has a lovely form factor, but there is nothing special about its image quality -- especially for its price. I didn't realize how much I cherish IBIS until not having it. I do think an M with a Summilux 35mm is a special combo that makes magic happen. If you're thinking of an M, just start with the camera and single 35mm or 50mm lens. Don't give up your other camera for one.
I say this as a life long Leica M shooter, these days you only get a Leica M if you want the manual digital rangefinder experience. that's it. I've been shooting on manual focus cameras ever since I got into photography and I never needed to "upgrade" to auto focus cameras. I use my phone for that stuff.
Some people think Leica M is some magical camera that will make every picture they take amazing. Of course this is not true. Some folks don't even realize Leica Ms are manual focus only.
Shooting moving objects on an M with a 75mm @f2 is “quite” challenging :-). As with so many other tools, each camera has its strengths and weaknesses. Each genre demands a different tool/ camera. Depending on what your main photography topic is a Leica M may fit or not.
I decided to get back into photography two years ago after a decade of being away from it. Going from shooting on film and mainly using manual setups to the world of mirrorless camera was a big jump and I wanted something that could give me the best of both worlds so I ended up getting a Fujifilm XT4. I love the camera all around but one of the things I love about it is having all the dials on top to control everything in an instant without digging through menus. 90% of the time I'm running it in all manual mode. I'll even set the ISO and leave it until I've shot the equivalent of a roll of film, I won't even change film stock profiles until I've gone through a rolls worth of shots. It makes me feel more in tune with the process and it was one of the reasons why I fell in love with photography in the first place. Before I bought it I also tried the Sony a7iii and absolutely hated the experience using it because it was so far removed from what I wanted in a camera. The experience felt no different than pulling my phone out of my pocket and hitting a button to take a picture. Still was a great camera and had a lot of cool tech in it but to me it was the equivalent of using an AI art generating program instead of picking up a paint brush.
Gotta say, I bought my Leica for both reasons. The stripped back experience I felt like gave me more room to grow. Since buying it, I now love the experience of Leica. Is it worth the price-tag? no. Will I sell it for a more cost effective camera system? no.
I would highly recommend the original Leica Q. Coming from a film background I wanted something really stripped back. The £2k price tag is much more affordable than an M series, and the Summilux 28mm attached is incredible (retails at £6k as a standalone lens) instead of compromising on more affordable glass when buying into an M body.
Plus a bonus my wife can go fully auto mode and auto focus with a simple switch of a dial to snap photos of the kids!
This is all too common with Leica, unfortunately. Not many photographers can actually afford them. Many buy them, but later sell because they can’t actually afford to hang on to them I.e afford them in the first place. The copium around future value is what drives the initial purchase, I suspect. Wonderful cameras, but a luxury brand that has priced itself out of most of our pockets. Cheers
The thing is, Leica is selling more cameras in the last 18 months than they have for decades, back before they were tools. Leica are actually having a resurgence and for the life of me I cannot understand why but younger photographers have gone for them
@@medes5597 marketing works
@@medes5597 From all I've seen as a photography outsider, Leica seems very equivalent to Rolex in the watch world. Yes, they are good, even great, but there are better (or at least, just as capable) competitors for often substantially less money. But the brand 'reputation' is the reason most laypeople buy them, and the actual enthusiasts tend to stay away.
Many young people are very much about recognizable brand names, and often in hobbies, are doing it for the *ahem* 'image' rather than for passion or even to turn it into a career. Or even to keep up with trends on socials. (like the Fujifilm X100V selling out everywhere and having a 6+ month backlog because of TikTok, not because photographers have demand for it :\ )
The people who buy Rolex are often not using it to tell the time, but their smartwatch/phone. In the same vein I'd wager most people who buy Leicas use it maybe for 10% of their photos, and their phone for the other 90%.
Thanks for the update! I have an M11 and a Sony a7rv. I also mostly shoot my two boys of 5 and 6 which makes it frustrating to use the M11. I cannot justify keeping it around and, like you, I don't think the image quality is anything above the Sony. At least with the Sony, I can snap a picture one-handed of the kids while juggling a bag, a picnic, and a soccer ball and still nail the picture :) Keep us updated if you get anything else.
I switched from manual focus to auto focus lenses when my children were younger. Now I returned to manual focus again meaning that I have to accept misfires. But what I also found out is that these misfires also add character and dynamics to the picture. But yes, sometimes it is just frustrating that I didn’t nail focus. My solution is to shoot at f8 and apply zone focusing.
Back in the bad old days of film cameras, I once took nearly two years to use up a 36 roll of film - Basically I only took perfectly composed scenes.
I totally get it. As a person myself that's changed systems many many times, what you think will be ideal just isn't what you expected. Good luck with your future gear :)
Yes, my experience is kind of learning by doing. I switched gear many times as well. One of the lessons I learned is that I perhaps should have rented some gear first before buying it. Well, in the end I arrived at the tools that work for me and inspire to take with me.
If you like the classic tactile and manual feel but also want modern features, why not something like an X-T5? You can easily switch it to all manual and use the buttons and the dials. And you can switch it back and it's a totally modern camera.
I guarantee you within a year you will get another one…. Happend to all Leica owners
Nope
Nope, not even a semester
Not all, there are people that are immune to the Leica Virus. It took me more than a decade to get it under control and to be content with a simple Leica IIIf and a few decent lenses (I have to admit that it is quite hard, but a lack of money helps ;-)).
I hate to admit it. That’s what happened to me.
1000 % 😂
Rented the M11 last week and fell in love but couldn't wrap my head around the $$. Great video as always James
yeah they're definitely "if I ever became rich" cameras, we can always dream!
The real killers are the lenses - everyone else is bringing out lighter, cheaper glass, but Leica is going in the opposite direction!
@@jameskezman personally on my film Leica i prefer the Zeiss and voigtlander glass. Idk what you mean about m mount lenses not being small though? They're smaller than APSC lenses a lot of the time
The Voigtlander 50mm APO that James has on here I got for £500 second hand, and it's literally just as good as the Leica equivalent.
@@CianMcsweeney My 'lighter than' comment was about other manufacturer's lenses, e.g. the new big Z-mount teles from Nikon are lighter and cheaper than their F-mount siblings. I should have been more specific! RE: Zeiss. Love their lenses - the Planar 50/2 has been my 50 for 12 years! I will though, one day, own again a Summilux 35 FLE. The look of that lens is something special.
Boom. Nailed it. For people like you & me, it doesn’t work. But it’s an addiction
I bought my M11 about 4 months ago and I love every aspect of it.
The rangefinder experience, build quality, the clean menu system, the Leica app is hands down the best. It’s a full frame camera with amazing lenses on such a compact body. However, I’m selling it to get a Q3.
I have a 3 years old daughter and can’t focus fast enough. I just miss a lot of shots and moments because of that, although when I nail focus I feel much more “rewarded”.
Definitely a difficult decision, but now that I know what is it like shooting with a Leica, it’s hard to turn back.
Maybe you could use hyperfocal so the m11 becomes a point and shoot. You would just have to put your subject in the right distance corresponding to the focal you're using. Random example, you know you gonna be in a bright space, f8, set up your distances like 1.5 to 7m and you'll get acceptable sharpness if your baby is in that range.
You can get a different camera to photograph kids, it does not have to be leica :) You can get some used Sony that will do it just fine, or better than Q3 for something like $1k. And keep m11 for other uses.
Get an XE1 or Xpro1 youll thank me later😊
I understand where you're coming from. I traded in my M10 for the Leica SL2. Very happy but its high ISO performance left me wanting. When I bought it, I switched to Sigma's DG DN Art lenses. Wonderful together! When the SL2-S was released with its 24MP BSI sensor, I switched to it and I'm glad I did. The 24MP results is approx. 45MB DNG files. More than enough for me. The SL2-S is much better in low light and I even have the auto ISO set to 25,000. It's sensor captures more light than the SL2 did and terrific for my needs. Performs terrifically with the Sigma Art lenses. I'm happy!
I get it. Cameras are tools and you pick the right tool for the job. I own two digital Ms. They are older models and I think that I will move to the Q3 as the limitations of the Ms are becoming more evident the older I get!
Those are your shortcomings then, lol.
@@peetje28021970 Empathy would be nice. We will all age one day and our eyesight will deteriorate.Just one of the undesirable state of ageing process... Our day will come...
@@peetje28021970 Undoubtedly - the eyes aren't getting any younger!!
RUclips reviews are a little biased towards video, because every RUclipsr wants and needs a camera that can do video. Camera manufacturers might even bump up video specs to please RUclipsrs, as the influence a lot of buying decisions. My problem with video is that video warms up the camera and as a result noise slightly increases even for stills. That is not noticeable during the day, but at low light with high ISO. Even turning on a mirrorless camera already warms up the sensor and increases noise. I wish they would still offer DSLRs with the latest sensors.
Imo there's a huge gap in the market for a Leica competitor that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Ofc it still would be expensive since an optical rangefinder costs a lot to make, it just doesn't cost as much as Leica wants us to think 😂
Fuji XPro series?
@@paulhargreaves1497 not a real rangefinder and Fuji has no interest in making manual lenses it seems. Great cameras, just not a Leica replacement imo
@@CianMcsweeney True, but there are lots of manual options.....I think! I say this as an ex Leica R3 user, best SLR ever!
@@CianMcsweeneyit’s not a true rangefinder no, but with the manual voigtlander lenses it can be a real joy to use - especially with the OVF.
Thanks for the tip on capturing that soft-glow evening light!
I have my poor man's Leica. A7RIII with three adapted Carl Zeiss lenses (Distagon 2.8/21, 2/35 and Planar 1.4/85) I rescued from my huge Pentax sell off last year.
Less really is more.
you should just try the SL2. Much cheaper lenses cause you can get sigma/Lumix lenses + you have very good quality videos, you basically press 1 button and you switch from photo ot video mode with previous settings saved. You still have all the Leica stuff + usability of a modern camera if needed
I know exactly what you mean, mate. Every summer I'm happy that winter is over, and every year I forget about the hey fever... Cheers.
An ex-film Leica photographer here (M6 & M2). I swapped from Leica to Nikon, and from Nikon to Canon. Then from Canon to Konica-Minolta, then from Konica-Minolta to Lumix. But for the last 10 years, I've been using exclusively Olympus and I haven't looked back. A little dabbling with Ricoh has also happened (a great and 'inexpensive' alternative to Leica), but Olympus still rules the roost. That all said, I wish digital cameras would remove all the fancy bits, and returned to the simplistic beauty of the manual camera - I shoot exclusively in manual on my Olympus cameras, shooting almost entirely using hyperfocal distance.
Curious why are you sticking with Olympus? I started with Olympus but felt I should "move up" and chose Canon. I do miss my Olympus cameras though...
@@GT-hk8dy They're [Olympus] small, lightweight and I have many of the pro-lenses as well as primes. The quality of Olympus lenses is incredible and the pro-lenses are also weather-sealed and built like a tank. The cameras are also fast to use. But best of all, and unlike Canon or Nikon, Olympus cameras aren't classed as 'professional' by insurance companies/brokers, meaning they are covered by basic household contents insurance, the former of which is several hundred, even thousands to insure.
I agree wholeheartedly with your opinion about over-specified cameras. Part of the enjoyment is in manual handling. That's why I like older, simpler dslr's.
I bought Mamiya C330 for times when I want simplicity. I was wrong, old manual cameras require more work. "Simplicity" it is not :)
@@realniteart i think he meant simplicity in the camera, not simplicity in using the camera. i agree with your opinion on older manual cameras tho
@@suspiciousstew1169 I think he meant both. Personally I love the simplicity of the Leica Ms and the simplicity in using it. I made pictures with Canon, Nikon, and Sony cameras. But the M really nails it for me.
i feel the same way for the modern cameras removing the fun of taking photos, so i went back to film 3 years ago and i still can t stop loving the process. digital is digital, film is film, each have their purposes. I would advise you to try it out.
I think you would be more interested by an xpro4 if it comes with a higher megapixels count (45) and if it keeps the actual basic video capabilities (4k flog 200mbps).
I really appreciate the straightforward assessment here. Makes perfect sense.
I am ready to hear more about your work. For instance, tell us more about this business of mixing human structures and people into your landscapes. Also, who are your influences?
I had a M10P until my left hand met a scissor, and the scissor won by a wide margin. Manual focus is no longer in the cards and sadly I sold it. If my hand was intact, I would definitely have the Monochrom! I had several Leica M lenses (35/1.4, 50/1.4,90 f2) and they performed well. I tried Zeiss, Cosina and others, but I didn't get the 'Leica look'. The microprisms on the sensor really are matched to the lenses to get that sensor coverage with the tiny M lenses. I also have a SL2 and several L lenses, and I find the same with third party L glass. About 20% of the time I get the 'Leica look', which to me is more 3 dimensional- spooky sometimes how much so- than my previous Sony, Canon or Nikon lenses ever produced. Whether that's the micro contrast thing, I have no idea. It's there, just rare. Colors and sharpness really are impressive, especially wide open; not much post work needed (Capture One). Whether it's worth the price of admission for that 15 to 20% is the question (it is for me). Cheers!
I'm happy with my Sony A74 and 50mm 1.4 GM but the M10 with 50mm Lux asph has something beautiful going on which I can't replicate with my Sony.
Really sorry about your hand.
My happy setup is a Sony A7CR (same sensor as the Q3 & M11) and several Voigtländer lenses (+ a long zoom for sport events). So I can have the arty look most of the time, or go easy and auto-focus or zoom when needed.
I had for a very long time an M6 TTL with a few Leica lenses. Very very nice, but I was born and raised with SLRs, and the telemeter viewfinder always felt a bit awkward to me. Now I use a rather quirky Sigma fp, and am happy with its quirkiness, but after having searched for something more engaging, without any video functionality, I think I know what will be my next camera, when the finances allow it: Hasselblad X2D! I looked at some alternatives and other FF mirrorless, but each time they lack something, or have simply too much stuff, let alone all the video functions I never ever use... Great Video James by the way. As always :-)
I can recommend the Hasselblad X cameras. I am still working with the X1D mark i. Again the simplicity of the camera and simplicity in using the camera is what I really like. Plus the image quality is stunning of the X1D. So I can only imagine what the image quality is of the X2D.
The APO Lanthar does also exist for E-mount. If you like the manual focus experience enough, it might be worth getting that one then.
Leica mount adapter for sony e solve the problem
@@OAlBraun The sony specific version does have some benefits, though. You can set it up for the camera to automatically punch in when you twist the focus, you get full exif, profile correction...
@@noenken And it avoids the _horrifically_ soft and smeared corners that adapting that lens gives. (Same is true of basically any wider M-mount lens.)
@@RealRaynedance Yes, either go native or adapt M lenses to one of the SL cameras. I have a 601 mainly for that reason.
your pictures look amazing.
please keep up with the good work.
Get ready for negative sticker shock as used M11's are being bought by dealers at 50 cents on the dollar (I guess that its 50 pence on the pound over there). The M11has not held its value due to lock up issues from early production units. I just picked a used Chrome Silver M11 for $7000 (that includes tax) from my local authorized Leica dealer. Crutchfield had an new open box unit (full warranty), that sold last week for $7200.
I for one am happy with my R5 and all its bells and whistles. Better to have them and not need them, than to need them and not have them. I have lots of fun when shooting manually, plus all the tech makes difficult shoots much less so.
I have a Leica. Film, so no video, which I don’t need. The camera is great and most of all easy to use. Just the basics and as an amateur, that’s all I need. TAKING pictures is what I love, and based on years of of trial and error, decide on the depth of field and adjustment of exposure. Relying on my brain and fingers. Not on menus. As for price, yes it is way too expensive. Perhaps a hidden snobbish side? Rationalising that I can always sell it at a good price?
Thanks for the tip of pushing up the blacks under certain circumstances.
So if you didn’t run a RUclips channel would you keep it?
I went back to a film camera and bought an M-A. Three months in, I still love it. Try a Q3 for video and still get that Leica tickle. :)
I would really like to know if you have had any freezes during the time you have been using your Leica M11? I've had mine for 9 months and the constant freezes and even firmware errors get on my nerves pretty regularly.
My M11 has been flawless. If firmware doesn't fix yours, it might be hardware.
The main thing with Leica is it doesn’t get in the way. So you aren’t distracted. But then if you have to do videos at the same time etc… you are distracted anyway :)
Sorry, that's the kind of canned line people like to trot out about Leica M bodies but it's not true. They ABSOLUTELY get in the way if you wear glasses, because the rangefinder is not great to use if you wear eyeglasses. And they get in the way with the central focus patch, so you can't shoot the lovely fast lenses wide open with an off-center subject without a lot of luck on your side, or a very steady subject. If you're left-eye dominant (like me) then the entire rangefinder layout becomes useless, because they're meant to be used with the right eye. All the Leica fans love to talk about the camera not blocking your face so you can interact with the world/subjects, but if your eye dominance is different then none of that matters. What I can say is that people who actually have spent real time shooting with a Leica M is that they're honest that it IS a distraction, and it DOES get in the way, but they claim they like that and it helps their photography somehow.
Goodbye James, wish you all the best and follow your dreams and what makes you happy as a person and photographer.
‼️❤️
I was thinking recently about the idea of going manual but thought that if that's what I wanted by not just set all the setting to full manual on my camera. Don't you come out with the same result but without buying another camera?
Just a thought.
I can tell you, i said two times good bye and bought for the 3rd time one. Once you had one, every other camera seems to be a toy. The build qualitiy and shooting vibe is unique.
Leica does not and never has had a monopoly on quality, buying a luxury car doesn't make you a good driver, instead it makes you excuse your horrid behaviors and habits behind the purchase. Leice shooters are just photographic wine snobs where money has a direct and exclusive monopoly on perceived quality. A blurry poorly exposed image of the back of someone's head is just bad until someone says it was taken on a leica, and then its fine street art.
@@flynnbrowning5685 so wrong. You can pick up a good used Leica for less than the price of a new Sony/Nikon/whatever. My used Q is fantastic, the user experience is unique, it’s fun, it’s engaging, the image quality is outstanding and it’s better than my Sony for street photography. Nothing to do with money or snobbery, at least not in my case.
@@flynnbrowning5685 Just check out the young Leica generation, their creativity, their work and you will eat your own words. The Leica M System is for many artists the way to express themeselfs in a time where everything is pushed with tech we dont need. Its a beautiful simple tool to create art. Thats why we choose Leica. I can create my work with every camera on the market but my choice, my tool is a Leica M9P with a beautiful 50years old Summicron which feels brand new and creates a timeless look out of pocket. Cheers.
@@julesc5571sorry but you’re wrong. Leicas on the used market cost more. A sony a7iii is far superior to most digital M’s. The only worthwhile digital M cameras are the m10 and M11 which are both overpriced snobby cameras. The functionality is not better than sony canon or Nikon. You pay more for less. It’s not worth the investment for anything commercial. They are enthusiast and hobbyist cameras. Not useful in the digital world in comparison to top end sony Nikon and canon. Leica m10/m11 are between 4 and 9 thousand. A Sony a7r iv is less than 3k on the used market. Do your research first.
@@Mulokajm9 has sensor corrosion issues. And it’s sensor is old and outdated. Shoot film if you’re really interested in experience.
You should do a video on hayfever and photography - it's the niche RUclips never knew it needed. I have a personal strategy of packing hydrating eye drops and having a few squirts of Beconase before going out, working like a charm.
I couldn't decide whether or not I wanted a Q2 or Q2M, so I now have both. Sure, I can convert to mono in post, but the files from the Q2M are superb so I have reduced my time in front of the computer while increasing my time behind the camera. Win-win.
I'd like to see you try the Leica Q3 next. It can shoot a little video and might be worth it.
I clicked the link for Jame's listing. Ridiculously good price.
Want more engagement with the photographic process? Why not shoot film with a 4x5 view camera, a dark cloth and a hand held light meter?
Right! Or maybe even a plywood 8x10 (if you can get and afford the film).
Thats right, I own a few cameras including Leica and Sony, but I have used a 5x4 since 2005 and find the experience the most engaging and rewarding. Trouble is, other people only want easy and cant be bothered to try.
I like the image with the better light over having the cows on top of the hill.
If you like the Leica M11 experience but need to shoot video (and at a lower price), then why don't you purchase a Leica Q2? Of course, you'll need to live with the 28mm fixed lens but other than that I would highly recommend it. I've had my Q2 for over a year and love it. Right now I don't suggest the Q3 as it costs more than the Q2 and I've been hearing many stories about constant freezes.
I love my Q2 but not for its video capabilities (meager at best).
WOW!!! So many opinions about James’ motivations for buying and then selling a camera of any kind. James will obviously do whatever suits his needs for his style of work and workflow just as everyone else that picks up a camera. I applaud your willingness to at least try something new James. Keep doing “you” sir and I’ll just keep enjoying your content. All the best to you from the flat state of Illinois in the good old USA.
Cheers! 😊🍺🍻
I totally understand you. Similar feeling with Fuji X-pro3 and the screen…
Leica Q with interchangeable AF lenses would be something else!
No one says you have to use all of those automatic things. They still have manual!
After watching your video, I think your opinion of the Leica images has tipped the scales for me to despatch of my M10 to MPB. Posted today. I Loved the rangefinder camera & the images (for about 2 years). However even if I did think the images had a "special look". However, as you pointed out, maybe not that much better than some of the new cameras high MP on the market. When I compared my 24mp images to my Hasselblad X1D, I think there is absolutely no contest in every way. I chopped my Leica in for the Fuji GFX 50S II + Lens. If the images from it are even close to my X1D's, I will be very happy (I hope). I think the Fuji has a few more bells and whistles than the Hasselblad's at a more realistic price. Not one for video, I do have the X-T5 if it's required. My resignation to the Leica club is in the post :). Thanks again for another great video.
Have you still got a Fuji? Get an M-Mount to X-Mount Adapter, Fuji make them. I occasionally use a Leica 35mm Summicron with my X-T4 with excellent results.
I was thinking he might like Fuji too. Lots of buttons as well as menus if you’d prefer.
“Liked.” I respect and understand your decision. I will keep a Leica M camera, because one special M-mount lens makes it worth it. The Summilux-M 50mm ASPH’s distinctive background blur cannot be faked, in post-processing, and even it it could, I do not like sitting at a computer, to manipulate backgrounds. The minimalist body, that is so dissimilar to a video game controller, is an added bonus. The rangefinder focusing system is a fascinating mechanical marvel; another bonus. What little video I shoot can be accomplished with an iPhone. I still have my DSLR equipment, for anything that an M camera cannot do, such as serious macro, and birds/wildlife/action.
I have added other M-mount lenses, with Zeiss ZM and Voigtlander VM among them, but it is the Summilux-M 50mm ASPH that makes the Leica M system worth keeping.
It’s still breaking my brain being from Australia to see how bright it is so late in the day. Northern latitudes are wild.
Well we're just around mid-winter and the shortest days of our year down here. The long days will be on their way back soon, hang in there, maybe do some night shooting while you wait ;-)
@@trevorbrooks813 I have been making the most of it! And it’s actually making it easier to get to golden hour, since it’s way earlier 😁
Hej James, I really understand the reason to shoot a simple camera without every hi tech things in it. I've got a very good Sony Equipment with some very great GM-Lenses but sold it because of the distanced feeling of shooting this cameras. What I really like is setting all my settings manually with a Dial. So the choice was a Fuji X-Pro3 for shooting and a XT-4 for Video. But I really don't think that it is an absolute need to film a YT-Video with a big mirrorless camera. Now my absolutely small and light setup is a Leica M6, Leica M262 and a DJI Pocket 2 for Video and RUclips. The videoquality this little thing delivers is outstanding! I think selling the M11 is okay, but as I were you, I would look for a M10 or a M240 instead. Greetings and Inspirations from Germany.
I hear ya. I’ve owned colour Leica’s before and they’re amazing, but not entirely enough so. I’ve got a M10 monochrom now, and it’s absolutely lovely. I’d suggest trying one if you can.
But
(There’s always a but)
The Q3 is massively tempting. I also shoot film, and I’m drawn to the MP / new M6.
Not sure what I’m gonna do
Great to hear your thoughts on the M11. I think I would feel similarly. Not that I could afford the Leica (and pricey lens) in the first place. 😄
my main issue with he Leica's are the blown highlights. For a street camera with high contrast and unpredictable lighting, it''s a problem that you have to shoot around.
The Fujis's, om the other hand, have a DR 400 mode that effectively remaps the DR closer to the shadows, allowing for 3-5 stops of highlight retention, while automatically bringing up your shadows and miss n camera. Works in raw too..
This is a limitation o the sensors today: that anything at white, I;e. 100% luminance, clips instantly.
Cosseting that this is at the OPPOSITE of film, I wonder why camera companies led for this.. perhaps it's to tough low light advantages.
but it goes against what tile has done for a centrality: discarding what the eye do to see..i.e. shadows....
Fuji approach, while sacrificing some DR in the blacks, allow you to shoot normally, giving you both headroom nd highlight falloff curves, to naturally roll off highlights and retain detail in said highlights.
Canon does this with highlight priority mode... thanks to all of the bridezillas and their white dresses clipping..
Dunno why Leica doesn't have such a mode. It would be a killer.
My two pence worth, shooting M(6) film Leica for a couple of decades. They are primarily wide( ish) angle to normal, 28-50mm, 28mm was my favourite) within those parameters and for, let's say, non too lively subjects, the bright line finder made them probably the finest image making cameras ever. Rather than composing by the viewfinder al la SLR/mirrorless, one places the frame over the scene/subject while being able to see outside the frame and make adjustments.
if you have a full frame camera (35mm sensor), I don't think you need more than that... maybe another one specialised for video.
But that's really all what a pro photographer needs
James, theres a Go Pro mount called 'Snap Mount' (Not indosed, I bought one). It's a ultra strong magnet that clips under your t-shirt. Just a idea if you find that Go Pro chest mount straps constricting in the heat waves! ....Also I bought my Leica M10 from MPB. ...I rekon next months video will be you miss the Leica hahahahaa
You need to use the Leica lenses on it!
I have Nikon Z7, Ricoh GR 3x and an OM-1. Probably cost the same as your Leica. I know what I would rather have . If I was a consultant I would have the Leica as well.
Of the 3 that you own, which is your favourite? Why?
I would love to save up money for an M11 but I would instantly regret it because I can do a lot with that kind of cash lol. I really think Leica should make an affordable rangefinder for the majority of the mass because everyone wants a Leica.
There are plenty of used rangefinders on the market that are much more affordable than a new M11.
I actually just bought an xpro2 because I wanted to try out the rangefinder style. That plus a x mount manual focus lens and it will set you back at most 1500 pounds.
@@FedThePoopy but it's still 0% rangefinder
epson r-d1
So what will you replace your Leica with? or maybe not.
I could’ve bought a Q2 or Q3 but everytime i pickup my panasonic gx85 with panasonic leica 15mm f1.7 i realize i dont need a leica. Got myself sony a7r5 for paid work. My gx85 is my edc which i love. Those who cant afford Leica - try gx85/gx80 with panaleica 15mm f1.7. It is fun experience! :)
i like your video. What would you add to an m12 functions?
If you wanted to be detached from the digital side of photography, you should have either found an M10-D, or got one of the Pixii's that shares the same mindset as the M10-D. No rear display, only physical dials (in the case of the M10-D) and the rangefinder. I picked up an M10-D off a friend that has more money than sense and thought they wanted to be as close to film as possible experience wise. Turns out they definitely didn't, managed to drop it doing a bit of cosmetic damage but nothing else, and shelving it. I was going to flip it, but I ended up keeping it as a digital option to natively shoot my Minolta CLE and Zeiss Ikon m-mount lenses.
There's also always the Fuji X-Pro 3, basically the only non-brand new body that can be found in stock or used for an alright price compared to MSRP new. Turns out the Fuji nerds didn't quite want to go that far into the physical/film world aesthetic, and not many bought them. The X-Pro 2 prices are creeping up used to way too close to an X-Pro 3 used. I got one from the same rich friend that upgraded to an X-T5. I like the hidden screen that still tilts for waist-level shots, it's great. With how prices are going, I'm probably going to flip the M10-D and just adapt the lenses to my Sigma fp or X-Pro 3.
Such a beautiful spot. Straight outta Shire.
Interesting video. I love Leica products but I can’t necessarily argue against your assessment.
The M11 looks lovely but that price. Did purchase the q3 which im on day 2 of using it. I'm loving the form factor and the fact there's not that many buttons. Same sensor as the M11 and the Q3 does video.
I feel like the Leica experience is more for gearheads. New camera tech is only a problem if the tech does something you don’t want to do, overriding your creative process. Speaking for digital, I honestly can’t tell the images of different camera systems apart unless I’m looking at jpegs straight out of the camera. But for edited raws, the photographer’s vision usually overwrites whatever micro differences a camera system provides.
Why do you feel that the Leica experience is more for gearheads?
@@bastiaan.alexander the fact that people, including photographers, can't reliability tell under a blind test what camera body a photo was shot with. There's just too much transformation in the development process.
@@DMurdock but why would this fact make that the Leica experience is more for gearheads? I don’t understand.
@@bastiaan.alexander simply put, a Leica is a prestige item. What separates Leica from everything else is not capability.
@@DMurdock :-( I don’t want to argue, but I disagree. Perhaps for some but not to all. To me it is not a prestige item. Yes, I’m thankful that I was able to put aside some money and find a few good deals. But it wasn’t prestige that lured me into Leica M cameras. It was the simplicity, the experience of a range finder, the small format of the lenses and the quality of these lenses, and an overall compact package. This package gives good to very good full frame results. Not per se better, but can compete with the finest full frame results produced by DSLRs and system cameras. What I also like about the Leica raw files is that I do not have to spend much time on post-processing. Before the M I had a Sony a7r ii and a7 iii with Zeiss Batis lenses and Minolta Rokkors, but I was always struggling with the colors during post-processing. Ultimately the cameras were collecting dust in my drawer. So to me, bottom line, the Leica M inspires me to go out and make pictures, and I get the result I want. Nothing to do with prestige.
For me as a car guy, it's like comparing a Tesla model X and a 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo.
The Tesla can do it all, faster better and almost by itself, and for some people that is king.
The old 911 is slower, more cumbersome, but, and there is a BIG butt.
For some people the 911 is all about how it feels to use, and not how fast it is.
I would never get a Leica, Ill stick with my BMW 635 Csi and a Sony A7II with vintage manual optics. 👌
Some of these comments are absolutely wild…
Sounds like a smart decision! Love the videos. You might really enjoy the SL2/SL2s. Kind of like a perfect combo of both the Sony and the M11.
Great images! I really wonder if you could have done the same with a Sony, Canon or Nikon body and lenses?
You should get one of the Leica SL cameras that can do both photo and video. Interesting video !
Hi James. Have you tried Lumix, there's some good cameras in that line up? 🤣🤣
How would the new Q3 work? I think it shoots video.
I find similar images shot via my Leica X and Nikon Df - while the Df has a wider dynamic range, and is better in lowlight situations. The X produces images that have a different look, no idea if it is the sensor or the Leica lens - but they just do.
But what about the Voigtländer APO Lanthar lens ? Aren't you going to keep it and adapt it to your Sony ?
How many hours will you wait before adding your name to the Q3 waiting list? 😊 (It does shoot video, by the way…)
I'm a Leica M10 owner and from what I've seen, all of the older digital Leica rangefinders have their own little issues. I'm glad that the M11 seems to be less idiosyncratic than the previous models, but I'm not enthusiastic enough to pay $9000 for one. I'd say that anyone looking to get into a used Leica digital rangefinder should really do some homework before you buy. There's lots of Leica hype out there on the intertube and factual information is harder to find.
i love my M11 but I am not a video shooter. I have several Leicas and though I have been a professional photographer and used Fuji, Nikon, and Canon I have always gone back to Leica even with its quirks. However I have no time for MPB. I have sent then excellent gear which they have downgraded but given to another online firm got the full amount or more and find they undervalue equipment. Just this week I sold a Leia 35mm f2.5 for £900 when MPB offered me £640 and I am sure they would have reduced that on receipt. rather buy and sell through local camera shops.
Basic black M11 and (the cheapest 50mm l could see) Summicron 50 f2 lens, approximately A$18,000. So, err, it’s a no from me and an “expletive deleted” from my darling wife.
Oh, the light in the intersection shot v2 is lovely. Thanks James.
Quite a reasonable argument for giving it up. I almost always bring a Leica with me on travels but do bring my main system as well. Cheers.
What is your main camera system for travel?
@@raksh9 Hard to say because I take different kits for different situations. The Nikon Z7 II and 24-120 f/4 was for almost a year my kit with my Q2 if I knew it was just typical travel photos. The OM-1 and M43 equiv of the holy trinity plus the 100-400mm if I really didn't know what I might see or want to photograph but the Q2 still came along. Just no comparing a ff kit and an M43 kit weight wise.
@@NikonDave Good kits for travel! My two cam kit is the Leica M9 with a 35 and 50, and a m43 kit like the Panasonic GX85 with 12, 25 and 45 for complementary focal lengths. I've traveled with the 5D Mark II and 24-105 and 35, but obviously found this a little heavy over the course of a solid day of walking. I've considered getting a Panasonic 12-60 for versatility and using an Olympus f1.2 prime for extra low light.
Here in Canada the M11 is ~ CAD $12,000 and that is BODY ONLY! How anyone can justify that price is beyond my comprehension. Add a Voightlander or a Zeiss 50mm f2.0 to that, and then add the 12% sales tax in my province, and you are at ~ $15,000.
You gotta use Leica lenses mostly with it. Preferable with some character.
if you use just a perfect IQ sterile lens like the Voigtlander APO- you might as well shoot a Sony. There’s no difference.
It sounds like what you really need is the Leica Q3 rather than an M model… I’m trying to find a way to buy a Q3…
Please rent a Leica lens before you sell it! Would love to know your options
Watching this and previous video, I wish next videos will have same scene with GX1 😂 I just saw you test gx1 on street photos, wanna see how it performs in landscape photos 🙆
Leica's are incredibly specific. It's basically s tier for street photography and documentary and that's it. Yeah you can shoot portraits with it, but why would you. They're just not for most people and that's not even about elitism. An A7IV, Nikon z7ii, canon R5/6 and even a panasonic s1 are better for more things for more people.
Why don't you get an M10-D or a Pixii? Quite a different experience with no screen on the back.
Do you personally use Mpb? I’ve made two purchases and both were faulty when sold as used but functional. I’m asking because your videos directed me to Mpb and I don’t know if others have the same issues as myself.
on a recent walk in a local nature preserve i tried smth similar. I cheated a little because the camera i remember most i owned myself was one of them smaller canon things with those aps something 45 shot films? Anyhow, that was my limitation. I only allowed me to ignore it when a grey heron flew over a lake full of sea roses and just so happend to pass over a still water bit where he reflected nicely. I had no time to switch to rapid fire n such, (im mostly on Aperture Priority because i tend to forget things and often misjudge exposure when conditions change a lot... ). Just a couple of shutter presses. But it was fun just to focus down. I tend to double tap wayy to often instead of slowing down and ensuring a sharp good picture that way.
Mr popsys what do you want at this point? I get it gear is fun to use but every other video there's another camera. Just go back to micro four thirds at this point.
I saw you on RUclips as the subject of an advert, several minutes long could have been for MPB. Anyway you showed the Sony A7R4 and I’m pretty sure it had your pretend Leica sticker on it ! Fine for followers of the Chanel but a bit confusing for everyone else 😂
A tip for your Hay fever, James. Buy (and eat) honey from bees in the same area you experience the Hay fever.
My other hobby is beekeeping and lots of our customers say that local honey has helped their hay fever, however there is no scientific evidence to support this.
Wowsers, that's some serious distortion in the footage @1.16min? Can see that in the pole. Unless a fisheye lens was intentionally used.
Then why not try Fuji? Look and feel of a Leica, retro controls, but switch a toggle and enable fast AF and 4K video? X-Pro, X-E or X-T series specifically
It's still not a true rangefinder experience tho. While Fujifilm does help with feeling that niche, people will always want a Leica. There needs to be a brand new affordable interchangeable rangefinder that competes with Leica.
Why is the xpro line not a true rangefinder experience? You can solely use the optical viewfinder and get a manual focus lens. The focusing with the rangefinder isn’t exactly the same as on a Leica as there is a small digital helper but it’s 95% of that experience especially if you are zone focusing
Fuji is modern tech in a retro body. M series is classic mechanics recording to silicon.
For those who just want the retro feel hit home with film simulations, Fuji is great. They're great all around, really. They aren't alternatives for the M, though.
X100V, the "poor man's Leica" 😂
@@FedThePoopy You can't be seriously saying that the x-pro3 is a rangefinder experience just because it has a hybrid OVF.