Excellent comparisons and overview of all the Leica systems. I've had my Q2 for almost 4 months and would never part with it. It's an all round workhorse, built like a tank and the image quality is astonishing.
Great job! I don't own a Leica yet, but am planning on purchasing one for my 40th birthday in just over a year. I go back and forth between M and Q. My personal favorite focal length is 35mm... so that pulls me away from the Q2 slightly.... but then it has the crop modes.... and in those crop modes you can see the outer frame.... a bit like a range finder (but not quite as much)... I also can imagine I will be able to get used to the 28mm (I have just not spend much time at 28mm). I have never owned a fixed lens camera.... so not sure if I would regret that. Things that draw me to the M series is just the different kind of shooting you do with it (I did use a tiny 35mm film range finder once for a few rolls and enjoyed it), the glass, the interchangeability (although at an expense), and I guess the fact that they "hold their value" pretty well.... whereas I am not sure the Q2 will. Decisions, Decisions.... at least I have time :)
Thanks Dean! Get in touch before you're 40th if you need help with anything. You could try using a cheap camera with a fixed 28mm ish lens first for a bit before spending lots of money. See today's video!
WOW !! I think I learnt more about Leica cameras in your short video than I have from any number of other Leica vids… I say ‘I think’ cos it was (so beautifully) intense I will have to - happily ! - watch it again 2mrw and possibly the day after that as well. Fantastic !! (I’ve sub’d !)
No, the fast pacedness was really great, brilliant to get so much info in such a relatively short vid. I really am enjoying learning more about these legendary cameras.
The Leica SL type 601 is also crazy weather sealed.When SL launched with SL 24-90,was top notch weather sealed,compared only with Nikon D4-D5 and Canon DXi-ii (yes it is so good)!
Hi Matt- I am a photographer from Austria and used almost every system - even Linhof :) . Canon and Nikon - the great Minoltas (X-M ....), Fujis, etc. But since 10 years I am addicted to the red dot. They may be not fast, sometimes like a diva, but every shot is like a miracle of light. There are Leica outtakes that I would praise in former days. And there are shots, that I never ever saw when I took the pic cause they develop in post. Meanwhile I have the SL, some R Lenses , one Minolta 50 mm as real workhorse. What I like most is my CL with the 18-56mm for every day high class shooting. And my C-Lux for the "always wear a camera" moment. Let me say - thanks for your channel - and always enough light:)
Good video... still in love with the SL2S and the CL ... The one I would like to have is the Q2 Monochrome but $$$ 🙂 One quick one you did not talk about is the SL and CL range are sharing the L mount and TL lenses can be used on SL bodies with the reduction crop factor But still smaller and lighter than the SL lenses. My TL 35mm 1.4 is a killer 50mm on the SL2 S ... Just my 2p
Once I owned a Leica I was hooked. Started with the SL 2, then tried the Q2 so sold my Sony RX1 RII as it was so superior & then the Q2m, finally I borrowed the new M11 so traded the Q2 & bought one with the 28mm Sumicron the dynamic range is fanatic but do miss the IBIS on the Q2 but added more lenses for Street etc. The Q@M is magic.
Looking forward to get a Leica Q one day. For the time beeing I just entered in the Leica wonder world, I bought a X1 for a song (une bouchée de pain, bite of bread as we say in french) hope I'll enjoy my future street photography sessions.
I enjoy using my M lenses on SL2 despite the weight. For b&w photography, I usually use my Q2-M. If I go really light weight outdoors, I would keep in my pocket a TL2 with its 18 mm lens which still performs better than my i-phone camera.
The Leica SL2-S is the new lower-res, more video-oriented version of the SL2. Instead of that camera's 47 MP sensor, the SL2-S has a newly-developed BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with an effective pixel count of 24 million.
I use a Nikon F3/T camera as a Leica antidote, to save money, and invest in very good F-mount glass from Nikon/Zeiss/Voigtlander for Film photography (And when I want to photograph with manual focusing). For Digital the same with a Z9, …!
In terms of lens quality, the new generations of lenses designed for digital cameras are superior to any F lens (just because the criteria and the technology have drastically evolved). But it does not mean F lenses are of no value especially if one does enlarge beyond 16x20” (40x50 cm). One of the issues with the F 3 (and I have kept mine) is that they use film that gets more and more expensive and then these days most people who use film now end up scanning it = extra loss of time and quality (and sometimes extra cost). Which category are you in Albert? Can you share your experience?
@@BrunoChalifour I photograph with SLR (F3/T, F4 or F6) with film on purpose despite the quality issues and longer time involvement just because it is FUN !!! Don’t play with chemical or scanning of my exposed film I use a excellent photo lab in Valencia, Spain for both. I photograph with DSLR’s from D70 (2004) upto D850 (2022) [used the D850 as my second camera for a photoshoot today of the World Championship Soccer (for adoption children) here in the Netherlands…] Many camera in between D200/D3/D4/D5/D800E, which I still have, or borrow out to friends or family. On the System camera front (mirrowless) I started late with a Z7-II and Z9 (had to wait 6 months on delivery). I will not go into the lenses, I just say the I promoted myself from user to collector of modern (Z glass) or F mount glass. Stopped counting after 50+. If you want to see results just google my name and you find my website with analogue and digital images.
@@alberte58 Thanks for the reply Albert. As for the results it looks as if we have been playing with the same toys and I have my own tests and results too. Thanks anyway.
Not sure if this comment has already been made, but it's important because Matt lists the fragility of the rangefinder mechanism as probably the biggest weakness of the M series; no, you don't have to send an M body off to Leica with a 1-2 month turn-around just because you gave the camera a heavy knock. I've cycled and hiked with mine on many occasions without a problem, so a rangefinder falling out of calibration is not a regular problem by any means. I find that I need to check the rangefinder calibration about once per year or once per two years. I actually did the check and horizontal rangefinder adjustment yesterday on my M10. It's a maximum 20 minute very easy fix using a standard 2mm alan key, which I always carry in my travel bag just in case. Many instructions online by many M owners who have done this also. Honestly, if you are interested in an M body, I would not let this put you off. In my opinion, the biggest issues to consider are price and lack of autofocus, but you know this before you move into the system. I've shot digital Ms for 15 years as my only system. No regrets. Doubt I will ever change to another system - there's just something so rewarding in the process of shooting with a small rangefinder.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom And is this a problem (calibration of the rangefinder mechanism) precisely in digital M models of Leica cameras or film models also have this atavism (flaw / defect)?
And is this a problem (calibration of the rangefinder mechanism) precisely in digital M models of Leica cameras or film models also have this atavism (flaw / defect)?
@@jonassekondi931 Hi Jonas. Rangefinder alignment is important for focusing all rangefinder cameras, regardless of whether they are film or digital. In both types, you need to check rangefinder alignment once in a while just to make sure everything is okay, but generally you notice it pretty quickly when your subjects suddenly consistently become slightly more blurry in your photos. e.g. you see that in portraits that your sharpest focus seems to be on the subject's ears rather than the nearest eye (i.e. back-focus). In fact, with digital you are more likely to become aware of a rangefinder misalignment because ou will review photos on the rear LCD during a session, and then you can switch to live-view for accurate focus until you have time to recalibrate your rangefinder using an allan key.
@@stuartwarner6719 Okay, thanks for your hint and quick answer. Having used the FED 5V system for a long time, I didn’t even suspect, didn’t notice and never thought about it, that this was even possible.
I chose a Leica Q2 for color (5 to 10% of my work) and a M10 monochrom for b&w (90%to 95% of my work and need of flexibility through several lenses, mostly Voigtlander as I don't have budget for Leica lenses : 21 / 35 / 50 / 75).
I’ve been shooting with an SL Type 601 for a few years now and I’ve really enjoyed adapting old lenses and while I have some telephoto zooms, I drifted towards adapting Voigtlander M lenses, starting with a 21mm f1.8, then progressing to a 75mm f1.5 and finishing off my holy trinity with the 40mm f1.2. Interestingly I find it fast and easy to focus, but it’s easier the wider the aperture as the EVF makes seeing what’s in and out of focus really clear. However, big day tomorrow… my first M should arrive. As I live 3 hours away from the nearest Leica store I’ve ordered it blind, so to speak. So while I briefly tried and loved my mates M10-R, I’m super curious and frankly nervous to see how I get on! Obviously 1st world problems, but I am enjoying the journey down the Leica slippery slope. My only slight reservation is the risk of the rangefinder going out of calibration. I am guessing this means packing it into a rucksack when snowboarding isn’t a good idea for alpine landscapes!?
I’m just like you…have an SL 601, and shoot M lenses. I use the Leica adapter, and have cherry picked what I believed were the best at each length. First I bought the Voigtländer 50mm f1.2, then the Voigtländer 21mm f 1.4, then the only Leica lens I own the the 90mm f2.5, and finally a Zeiss distigon 35mm f 1.4. I would really like one real Leica SL auto focus lens though, but it’s stretch price wise….
Great Marcus! I asked a retired repair guy and he said cycling vibration is not an issue but a sudden knock or severe vibration will do it. I might not take on the snow but I bet others do with no issue.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I sold my Epson RD1s because the rangefinder was out of collaboration more than it wasn't. This WAS from walking about, being on a car seat, or cycling, not from a serious knock. I had it calibrated once, but Epson abandoned support so I sold it. In many years of ownership I never had to have my M6 calibrated 9and it had knocks). I'm babying my M240, but so far OK (touch wood).
isn't calibration for M easily done by a hex key ? It can get miscalibrated if knocked heavily during transport but you can easily do it on the field - its a 5 min job. for digital Ms because you can check the LCD screen for sharpness .
Hex key is horizontal correction from memory which is easy to access yes. Vertical correction can be harder depending on each model. Still a pain to do if a professional who just needs to arrive and start shooting.
Thanks Thomas, yes I hoped to save a few othes Q shooters! (Apparently it affected early models the most and then it depends in what conditions you shoot in but better to be safe for me!).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom This is a long-standing problem, and not specifically for this model of camera or lens. This problem exists for most Zoom/Vario lenses that have the front of the lens extending out of the lens barrel (the design itself works like a pump piston here). In closed lenses (without a retractable "trunk"), such a dust collection effect is much less common / less. The same problem exists with the Leica D-Lux 7, LUMIX LX 100, Panasonic LX 100 II camera models, these models very often end up in the service for the dust cleaning procedure. It is strange that with your great experience you do not know about it.
I’m using the M-system for more than 25 years, the M2 from my year of birth, the MP and the M10R in black paint. There are a lot of camera-system, witch are better to use, the M-system is my personal favorite, cause I like the history of the M-system and manuell focus, speed, … As a professional photographer I would use a fast af system, but I’m just shooting for myself :)
Hi Matt! I own a Fujifilm x-pro 3 for street photography but I am also dreaming of Leica since I was a kid. I love optical rangefinder cameras and my 35mm (makes 50mm for FF) is almost always mounted. I have a 18mm lens that I barely use. The thing that scares me the most about the M-camera (except for the price lol) is the manual focus… What do you think?
Hi Stephanie, sorry I missed this. The MF is the fun bit so i think you’d get used to it snd start to enjoy the process. Going slower will give better composed images (usually)
Great overview. What is missing in Leica's line, is a Leica Q-system with exchangeable M-lens mount (or call it a Leica M with EVF instead of OVF). Leica most likely wants to avoid in-house competition with such full-frame camera since it would negatively affect M, Q, and SL prices. But such camera would be a big hit for Leica.
Here's the simple way to answer the question: are your images binary code stored on digital storage devices or whatever the latest cloud system is? Or, are they celluloid strips in a folder? Sorry, kids - in 10 years time, 15 years time - damn it, in 3 years time - your virtual images, your binary code, will be scattered all over the digital ether, tenuously holding onto whatever format is de-rigeur, while real photographic images - i.e., those unique strips of tactile analogue delight - will be sitting safe 'n' snug in wax-paper sleeves on a shelf. You want the right Leica? Buy any M-series analogue body - sans ghastly touch-screen and storage card - and shoot real photos on a roll of film. You can kid yourself all you want by spending ludicrous money on a digital atrocity with "Leica" stamped on it, but it won't give you what you crave - you experience of real photography. Save your money: buy any digital body from any of the big Japanese marques for your test shots, then do the serious shooting on a Leica M2-M7. As for the Monochrome - are Leica having a laugh? There are some born every minute! Load some of the superb Fomapan 400/135 into an M2 with the wonderfully capable and exceedingly affordable Jupiter 8 50/f2 and experience the genuine B&W deal.
Well said! I was going to do a film version of this video, I need to get onto it! And you shoot Foma with your Leica like me so your keeping it real :) I love Foma 100!
John, there dioptrie correction lenses for the M system viewfinder and they work great (plus the M viewfinder is definitely more clear than any R camera).
Well, these others are currently out of the budget, but I'm loving my Barnack. Hoping someday to be able to snag a Q or Q2, but I need to be able to justify it.
Thanks for the quick overview. A few additions for the M system, there are vision-correction lenses +/- 3 diopters that you can add to the viewfinder; ZEISS also make excellent lenses for the M (same price range as Voigtlander). Fora cheaper approach TTartisans and 7artisansalso make decent and affordable lenses (TTartisan 35 mm f 1.4 looks and is as solid as the latest Summilux 35 and with its 2aspherical lenses it is better than the pre-aspherical Summilux); I also know a few Nl Geographic (and definitely MAGNUM) photographers that have used Leica Ms. The Q (not the Q2 though) also uses the same (cheaper) batteries as the Panasonic GX system (+ a few alternative brands of Chinese battery makfers). The issue for most people with all Leica models is definitely the cost; 2 things to consider though: the exponential quality of the products (cameras and of course the lenses as Leitung is primarily a Lens designer and manufacturer) which makes its products extremely durable and pleasurable. Finally a question, although Leica has not added anything to the CL line for quite a while I do not think they have officially announced the end of the manufacturent of the T/CL line, have they?
Thanks Bruno! I’ll have to try to get the TT35/1.4 to test! I like they stuff. Yes I should have mentioned mire lens options including Zeiss. I forgot the diopter too, thanks for that.
@@BrunoChalifour I have a Patreon group of a Leica shooters around the world and everyone seemed to find out and agree at the same time. I’m not sure where it was announced.
Hey Matt. Funny because I think I actually have. I've got the QP which I love. I talked myself into an SL2s which is untouched in the bag since I collected it months ago. I should have gone with the SL2. I'm leaving it as is to trade in for the SL3 if it ever comes. Am I really saying this publicly 👀👉😔
Nearly parted with my sl2s today. The AF drives me nuts .Not fast or accurate enough when things start moving. I didn`t in the end though as trade in isn`t good .So it remains together with my CL and primes plus 55-135 ( great system) and my 246 / m3 (which I`ve had nearly 30 years ) and my m4 .Have to get some full frame lenses for the SL2s . 24 /70 or 24/90 ?
Sorry to hear. The Lumix S5 II X would give you good AF and similar images I think. If you want to stay with Leica then the SL3 is coming (at some point). I prefer small lenses so I would never buy the 24-90. It's huge.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I prefer the small lenses too .Well I went for the lighter and faster 24/70 .Which incidentally is really good on the CL with great colours and a useful 35 to 105 range .
That will be the same for all electronic lenses, Sigma especially, Leica SL lenses, Lumix lenses and if you say, the Q then the Q2 and Q3 also. That's why I invest in proper M glass
I'm using the M3, MP and M10. One of them most definitely is the best Leica camera. :P Leica M3 - best M viewfinder and rangefinder mechanism ever. Leica MP - refined mechanical perfection. Leica M10 - the digital forever M, true to the original M concept, best low light performance and no nonsense feature set of all digital Leica M cameras. Other than M Leicas - who cares?! Are those even real Leicas? :P
Thanks, yes In my 20s I never dreamt of getting Leica, I used the cheap end of Nikon. As I did more weddings and workshops instead of saving to buy a house I invested it all back into the craft. First, the top of the line Nikon D800 on pre-order then during a workshop I was teaching in 2013 ish I was introduced to Leica and that was the start.
Comparing my M and my Fuji pix I don't think full frame really matters to me anymore. The CL becomes very attractive. Why oh why did you discontinue this Leica?!
Leica has kept silent about the T/CL system for while. They have not officially declared it dead (to my knowledge) and Leica has surprised us these past years. Let us see what the future will be made of.
The best is the M8 because I have one 😂 As a gateway to the M system it’s hard to beat but it’s price is increasing a lot so a better overall buy may be the m240 for a Leica M system newcomers. I’d love a Q2 for its incredible versatility
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks for the reply. I had no idea it was such an old video. I was watching on my TV last night and this auto played. I’ll never sell my m8 - I took it to Italy as my only camera with a 35mm and it was great
My vote goes to the M3, although you did make it sound like a big ass Nikon in that little soundbite when you clicked the shutter haha. In reality you almost cannot even hear it... Actually i just brought mine in for a CLA yesterday finally, wonder how it will come back, maybe even smoother...
Yes recent Leica Ms are far more silent. One issue lies for M users with the M3: no frame-lines in the viewfinder below 50 mm. For those street photographers or landscape photographers who use 35 or 28 mm lenses an M4P, M6, M7or MP might be better choices. (To my taste the M5 is a brick and its LightMeter system is not very reliable… especially mechanically (many used M5 are sold without a working LightMeter (original film CLs too, be warned).
Thanks Victor. Sorry I probably said it wrong (IBIS vs OIS). Thanks for correction. As it is a fixed lens camera I just said it as a simple term so thanks for spotting that.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom no probs. “One lens only” on RUclips said the same and I assumed he was correct until a follower mentioned it, I had to check the manual to make sure lol.
Hi Matt Another great video, I asked this question on one of your other videos, maybe it got missed. I’m interested in either m8 or m9. I’m hearing that these cameras are now suffering sensor corrosion, my question is have you heard of this and do you have any advice
Hi David, sorry if I missed your last comment and thanks. I do miss some replies (and I have a few old comments to still reply to). M8 - no sensor issues, M9 yes can happen. My M9 was one of the first ones to get it so Leica took it as a part-ex for my then M240 replacement. if happens today it's a dead M9.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom just buy one that has had the sensor replaced (make sure you get the paperwork confirming it has the new sensor) and you are good to go.
The issue with both models is definitely the Kodak sensors (CCDs) not to mention the original issue with IR. If you plan to get one get an M9 (more recent, more pixels, better technology) make sure it was retrofitted with a new sensor and remember Leica has stopped repairing them and no-one else will do it. A used M240 might be a better option (and a more long-term one).
Hey Matt, thanks for this video! Very helpful! Based on your experience how do you find shooting portrait with the fixed 28mm f1.7 lens on the Q system?Do you always keep the right distance from the subject in order to avoid possible distortion? I'm interested in the Q2 as a potential all in one do it all camera, for street, portrait and landscape, taking advantage of the 47mp for a 28/35/50mm virtual lens combo. 50mm is my fave focal length. Thanks!
A 28 mm is definitely not a first-choice portrait lens, mostly because of the distorsions if you are close to your model. They can work for environmental portraiture though, when the photographer steps back à uses the surrounding to provide context/meaning for the portrait.
@@BrunoChalifour yes, you're right. That's why i asked Matt about it. I wonder if you maintain the right distance from your subject avoiding distortion, then using the 50mm crop function, you can get a good enough close-up portrait, even though you loose resolution down to 15mp, and I guess the bookeh won't be as good as a proper 50mm lens
@@MarcoMarfia The issue with the crop function is that is still a 28mm image... cropped with the same amount of distorsions. It is true though that they are less visible in the center than at the periphery of the image.
Hey Matt, great overview. Thanks for that. Let me describe my dilemma. I shoot with Lumix S1 combining Leica M lenses like summicron/F2 asph, or Voigtlander Noctons, Zeiss Sonnar. Would I gain anything moving to Leica body itself? I prefer for photography 24 mpx which is better with M lenses. I know that Leica is using sensors from other manufacturers. I shoot RAW+combining with Fine JPG for L Monochrome D profile which I believe is great for BaW. But still tempted to try Leica body itself. Your view on that? Appreciated.
Hi Ivan, thanks. In terms of final image. If you edit you can probably get the same image from both (see my S5 vs SL video), out of camera Leica files will win, and using the camera Leica will win as nicer to hold.
Getting better but expensive for such a camera ;(whose future no-one knows) too bad it is a good idea (but a limited and expensive one so far although as said before, improving).
Did i buy the wrong Leica Camera , at the time when i brought the V-Lux 5 i thought i did , but now its grown on me , its a great camera for my street photography , with a fixed 25 - 400mm lens , i would be interested on your thoughts on this camera if you ever used one, someone told me recently that its not a proper Lieca camera and i should get rid of it. Great video Matt as usual........
Thanks Michael, some people say the fixed lens Leica compacts are not real Leicas but if you enjoy it that's all that matters. I think when people say proper Leica they means film Leicas (most but especially M's). digital M and maybeee SL. (CL and Q probably not)..but they are all nicely made, the 4 in this video especially.
Thanks Siya, don't laugh.. Lumix GX880 + Olympus 45/1.8! (My new secret weapon! See any of the last 10 videos to confirm, all with the same. I used to use Lumix S5 (still have it) and before than Lumix GH5 (sold).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I am looking for a setup for daily vlog, can you suggest something light yet gives great video quality? I liked your Panasonic 880 but it has only 5mins recording options in 4k.
Matt : Do you think buying a DR 50mm F2 SUMMICRON is a good idea , Imlove my 50mm lenses and have used mostly my L39 Canon 50mm 1.2 ( magical ) 50mm F1.4 ( compact great contrast ) , then yes …. I have a converted 50mm 0.95 the man who is retired now…built the FOX 50mm 0.95 and I fell in love with that rich color…rendition… so please answer in your experience with these 50mm lenses , do you think the DR SUMMICRON has a valuable niche ? On my SONY body , the DR , can fit atop the Voightlander close focus M / NEX Mount and I can get very very close … Well Matt; I hope did not ramble on too long. Looking at a DR SUMMICRON 50mm F2 , that was built the year I was born. 1960 So there is a connection. Thanks Matt 🙏🏻
The problem with all these lenses is that in the vast majority of the cases you cannot use one if not the key feature of the M system: the rangefinder. In such case you could use any camera with the same results!
why you say if there is a wrong buying of Leica .. whoever go to buy Leica .. already knows whats Leica all about .. so NOTHING wrong with anything .. Cheers to knowledge.
Thanks Ramsey! You'd be surprised. People know the brand is good but often don't get a chance to test before buying so may just buy whatever they see people say is good on RUclips.
Leica M all the way. I don't understand however why get a M to use non leica lenses.... sacrilege!? Priority is leica lens... the camera body isn't spectacular in itself. Bit odd fronting other lenses on a leica body - if going there it's a body for the glass.
Maybe people like the experience of using a rangefinder style digital full frame camera that nobody else makes? Maybe people get an M body but can't quite afford a $3000 lens yet? I don't think it's that hard to understand why if you really think about it.
Ha thanks, yes I know many are pure Leica fans. Agree with your point on M glass but when other lenses started to give better results I woke up to the fact and started selling some M lenses replacing with better cheaper options. No right or wrong opinions on this, just what works for me.
📞 ZOOM: Photography Consultancy + Remote Tuition - mrleica.com/zoom/
📝 Get the detailed 4 Leica camera comparison table - mrleica.com/contact/
💫 Leica Q2M LR Presets Project - Get in touch! mrleica.com/contact/
🚀 FREE RUclips SEARCH TOOL: bit.ly/3b3julG
▶️ WATCH NEXT: See All Leica Videos - bit.ly/33H7pPq
✅ CHECK PRICES: (US) ebay.to/2F0HoxY (UK) ebay.to/3ijzle2 (DE) ebay.to/3iqDNYs (FR) ebay.to/2ZJ3E75 (HK) ebay.to/32A8xBu
🛎 SUBSCRIBED?: Monthly Giveaways! bit.ly/3qET0ZO
📷 SEE MY KIT: mrleica.com/kitlist/
💫 MRLEICA LIGHTROOM PRESETS - mrleica.com/leica-lightroom-presets/
⭐️ PATREON: 100+ Videos & Zoom - www.patreon.com/mrleicacom
▶️ VIDEO PLAYLISTS: mrleica.com/youtube/
🚀 LEICA WORKSHOPS: mrleica.com/leica-workshops-uk/
🚀 LEICA PHOTOWALKS: mrleica.com/workshops-mailing-list/
🎞 NEED FILM?: mrleica.com/do-you-need-film/
📝 BLOG: mrleica.com/
👤 Where to find me: mrleica.com/socials/
☕️ COFFEE: Thank Matt with a coffee - www.paypal.com/paypalme/MrLeica
Wonderful comparison and awesome tips
Yea
@@zenjitsuman thanks!
@@davidgebby thank you
Absolutly PERFECT VIDEO.
Thanks!
Excellent comparisons and overview of all the Leica systems. I've had my Q2 for almost 4 months and would never part with it. It's an all round workhorse, built like a tank and the image quality is astonishing.
Thanks Simon! Great to hear that you enjoy a Q2!
Great job! I don't own a Leica yet, but am planning on purchasing one for my 40th birthday in just over a year. I go back and forth between M and Q. My personal favorite focal length is 35mm... so that pulls me away from the Q2 slightly.... but then it has the crop modes.... and in those crop modes you can see the outer frame.... a bit like a range finder (but not quite as much)... I also can imagine I will be able to get used to the 28mm (I have just not spend much time at 28mm). I have never owned a fixed lens camera.... so not sure if I would regret that. Things that draw me to the M series is just the different kind of shooting you do with it (I did use a tiny 35mm film range finder once for a few rolls and enjoyed it), the glass, the interchangeability (although at an expense), and I guess the fact that they "hold their value" pretty well.... whereas I am not sure the Q2 will. Decisions, Decisions.... at least I have time :)
Thanks Dean! Get in touch before you're 40th if you need help with anything. You could try using a cheap camera with a fixed 28mm ish lens first for a bit before spending lots of money. See today's video!
You do the most for the most people. Thanks.
Thanks Zoltan! I’m trying!
The multiple images from the 28mm Q2 would make for an interesting project Matt. Especially from a wedding shoot!
Yes for sure! If money was no object I’d get one for weddings.
WOW !! I think I learnt more about Leica cameras in your short video than I have from any number of other Leica vids…
I say ‘I think’ cos it was (so beautifully) intense I will have to - happily ! - watch it again 2mrw and possibly the day after that as well. Fantastic !! (I’ve sub’d !)
Thank you Willaim! I'm glad you found it useful and sorry if it was too fast paced.
No, the fast pacedness was really great, brilliant to get so much info in such a relatively short vid. I really am enjoying learning more about these legendary cameras.
The Leica SL type 601 is also crazy weather sealed.When SL launched with SL 24-90,was top notch weather sealed,compared only with Nikon D4-D5 and Canon DXi-ii (yes it is so good)!
Ah thanks Nick, I overlooked that so good to know. I know enough about Nikon that from what you says that’s pretty impressive!
Hi Matt- I am a photographer from Austria and used almost every system - even Linhof :) . Canon and Nikon - the great Minoltas (X-M ....), Fujis, etc. But since 10 years I am addicted to the red dot. They may be not fast, sometimes like a diva, but every shot is like a miracle of light. There are Leica outtakes that I would praise in former days. And there are shots, that I never ever saw when I took the pic cause they develop in post. Meanwhile I have the SL, some R Lenses , one Minolta 50 mm as real workhorse. What I like most is my CL with the 18-56mm for every day high class shooting. And my C-Lux for the "always wear a camera" moment. Let me say - thanks for your channel - and always enough light:)
Thank you!
Still a die hard M digital guy. Great overview! Thank you.
Thanks Don!
Good video... still in love with the SL2S and the CL ... The one I would like to have is the Q2 Monochrome but $$$ 🙂
One quick one you did not talk about is the SL and CL range are sharing the L mount and TL lenses can be used on SL bodies with the reduction crop factor
But still smaller and lighter than the SL lenses. My TL 35mm 1.4 is a killer 50mm on the SL2 S ...
Just my 2p
Thanks Jerome, great tip! I think i've never considered it as a SL shooter as I have less MP than you but that's a good idea for others.
Once I owned a Leica I was hooked. Started with the SL 2, then tried the Q2 so sold my Sony RX1 RII as it was so superior & then the Q2m, finally I borrowed the new M11 so traded the Q2 & bought one with the 28mm Sumicron the dynamic range is fanatic but do miss the IBIS on the Q2 but added more lenses for Street etc. The Q@M is magic.
Thanks Peter! I'll be bringing out some Q2M presets hopefully later next month as part of a join project with Q2M users.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Looking forward to seeing them
Looking forward to get a Leica Q one day. For the time beeing I just entered in the Leica wonder world, I bought a X1 for a song (une bouchée de pain, bite of bread as we say in french) hope I'll enjoy my future street photography sessions.
Congrats! People say the X1 images are very Leica like so i'm sure you'll love it.
My favourite are the M10 and M Monochrom . Then my Q and Q Monochrom . But when I travel the M10 and Q Monochrom is my best combo .
Thanks! I still struggle to pack when I travel!
Thank you for sharing!!! Yes, for me, Leica Cameras are the Top Gears.
Thanks!
I enjoy using my M lenses on SL2 despite the weight. For b&w photography, I usually use my Q2-M. If I go really light weight outdoors, I would keep in my pocket a TL2 with its 18 mm lens which still performs better than my i-phone camera.
Sounds the perfect setup Wilfred! (Send me a few Q2M RAW files shot without a colour filter if you want to take part in my project!)
The Leica SL2-S is the new lower-res, more video-oriented version of the SL2. Instead of that camera's 47 MP sensor, the SL2-S has a newly-developed BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with an effective pixel count of 24 million.
Thanks yes correct. Sorry I didn’t detail every spec in the video. I cut it from
1 hr to 13min even without details.
I use a Nikon F3/T camera as a Leica antidote, to save money, and invest in very good F-mount glass from Nikon/Zeiss/Voigtlander for Film photography (And when I want to photograph with manual focusing). For Digital the same with a Z9, …!
Nice Albert! I do love Voigtlander glass for Nikon :)
In terms of lens quality, the new generations of lenses designed for digital cameras are superior to any F lens (just because the criteria and the technology have drastically evolved). But it does not mean F lenses are of no value especially if one does enlarge beyond 16x20” (40x50 cm). One of the issues with the F 3 (and I have kept mine) is that they use film that gets more and more expensive and then these days most people who use film now end up scanning it = extra loss of time and quality (and sometimes extra cost). Which category are you in Albert? Can you share your experience?
@@BrunoChalifour I photograph with SLR (F3/T, F4 or F6) with film on purpose despite the quality issues and longer time involvement just because it is FUN !!! Don’t play with chemical or scanning of my exposed film I use a excellent photo lab in Valencia, Spain for both. I photograph with DSLR’s from D70 (2004) upto D850 (2022) [used the D850 as my second camera for a photoshoot today of the World Championship Soccer (for adoption children) here in the Netherlands…] Many camera in between D200/D3/D4/D5/D800E, which I still have, or borrow out to friends or family. On the System camera front (mirrowless) I started late with a Z7-II and Z9 (had to wait 6 months on delivery). I will not go into the lenses, I just say the I promoted myself from user to collector of modern (Z glass) or F mount glass. Stopped counting after 50+. If you want to see results just google my name and you find my website with analogue and digital images.
@@alberte58 Thanks for the reply Albert. As for the results it looks as if we have been playing with the same toys and I have my own tests and results too. Thanks anyway.
Hi Albert with the F3T and Z9 you own 2 of the 3 cameras That miss to my Nikon collection … the 3rd one being the FM3A… lucky man.
Nice overview Matt. Can also add the Leica M246 to the Monochrom options. I’ve had one for 18 months now and love it!
Ah massive oversight! Sorry.. Noted thanks and thanks!
Not sure if this comment has already been made, but it's important because Matt lists the fragility of the rangefinder mechanism as probably the biggest weakness of the M series; no, you don't have to send an M body off to Leica with a 1-2 month turn-around just because you gave the camera a heavy knock. I've cycled and hiked with mine on many occasions without a problem, so a rangefinder falling out of calibration is not a regular problem by any means. I find that I need to check the rangefinder calibration about once per year or once per two years. I actually did the check and horizontal rangefinder adjustment yesterday on my M10. It's a maximum 20 minute very easy fix using a standard 2mm alan key, which I always carry in my travel bag just in case. Many instructions online by many M owners who have done this also. Honestly, if you are interested in an M body, I would not let this put you off. In my opinion, the biggest issues to consider are price and lack of autofocus, but you know this before you move into the system. I've shot digital Ms for 15 years as my only system. No regrets. Doubt I will ever change to another system - there's just something so rewarding in the process of shooting with a small rangefinder.
Thanks Stuart, yes I agree I used to get my M240 recalibrated annually (now I use the EVF). They do give a nice shooting experience.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom And is this a problem (calibration of the rangefinder mechanism) precisely in digital M models of Leica cameras or film models also have this atavism (flaw / defect)?
And is this a problem (calibration of the rangefinder mechanism) precisely in digital M models of Leica cameras or film models also have this atavism (flaw / defect)?
@@jonassekondi931 Hi Jonas. Rangefinder alignment is important for focusing all rangefinder cameras, regardless of whether they are film or digital. In both types, you need to check rangefinder alignment once in a while just to make sure everything is okay, but generally you notice it pretty quickly when your subjects suddenly consistently become slightly more blurry in your photos. e.g. you see that in portraits that your sharpest focus seems to be on the subject's ears rather than the nearest eye (i.e. back-focus). In fact, with digital you are more likely to become aware of a rangefinder misalignment because ou will review photos on the rear LCD during a session, and then you can switch to live-view for accurate focus until you have time to recalibrate your rangefinder using an allan key.
@@stuartwarner6719 Okay, thanks for your hint and quick answer. Having used the FED 5V system for a long time, I didn’t even suspect, didn’t notice and never thought about it, that this was even possible.
I chose a Leica Q2 for color (5 to 10% of my work) and a M10 monochrom for b&w (90%to 95% of my work and need of flexibility through several lenses, mostly Voigtlander as I don't have budget for Leica lenses : 21 / 35 / 50 / 75).
Nice! You don't need Leica glass.. see a future video to come ;)
Great comparison as always! Very informative and important to anyone wondering which camera is best for them.
Thanks Lucy!
Thank you for this segment … you helped me to decide on a Leica camera but still scared though …
Thanks Liz! If you want to setup a Zoom call before clicking buy I help others do the same - MrLeica.com/zoom
I’ve had all four. Currently keeping the M240 and SL (601). If the Q was 35 or 50mm it would probably be my favourite.
Thanks Chris!
One issue with the M240 is ISOs above 800/1600. Corrected with the M10 and M10P and later models of course.
@@BrunoChalifour Yep. I'm probably not going to shoot with it in low light. I want to keep a rangefinder body however.
I’ve been shooting with an SL Type 601 for a few years now and I’ve really enjoyed adapting old lenses and while I have some telephoto zooms, I drifted towards adapting Voigtlander M lenses, starting with a 21mm f1.8, then progressing to a 75mm f1.5 and finishing off my holy trinity with the 40mm f1.2. Interestingly I find it fast and easy to focus, but it’s easier the wider the aperture as the EVF makes seeing what’s in and out of focus really clear. However, big day tomorrow… my first M should arrive. As I live 3 hours away from the nearest Leica store I’ve ordered it blind, so to speak. So while I briefly tried and loved my mates M10-R, I’m super curious and frankly nervous to see how I get on! Obviously 1st world problems, but I am enjoying the journey down the Leica slippery slope. My only slight reservation is the risk of the rangefinder going out of calibration. I am guessing this means packing it into a rucksack when snowboarding isn’t a good idea for alpine landscapes!?
I’m just like you…have an SL 601, and shoot M lenses. I use the Leica adapter, and have cherry picked what I believed were the best at each length. First I bought the Voigtländer 50mm f1.2, then the Voigtländer 21mm f 1.4, then the only Leica lens I own the the 90mm f2.5, and finally a Zeiss distigon 35mm f 1.4. I would really like one real Leica SL auto focus lens though, but it’s stretch price wise….
Great Marcus! I asked a retired repair guy and he said cycling vibration is not an issue but a sudden knock or severe vibration will do it. I might not take on the snow but I bet others do with no issue.
@@williaminbody205 nice William. SL lens prices will eventually drop a bit
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I got mine in 'as new' condition for £1700. I think that's pretty cheap for Leica.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I sold my Epson RD1s because the rangefinder was out of collaboration more than it wasn't. This WAS from walking about, being on a car seat, or cycling, not from a serious knock. I had it calibrated once, but Epson abandoned support so I sold it. In many years of ownership I never had to have my M6 calibrated 9and it had knocks). I'm babying my M240, but so far OK (touch wood).
isn't calibration for M easily done by a hex key ? It can get miscalibrated if knocked heavily during transport but you can easily do it on the field - its a 5 min job. for digital Ms because you can check the LCD screen for sharpness .
Hex key is horizontal correction from memory which is easy to access yes. Vertical correction can be harder depending on each model. Still a pain to do if a professional who just needs to arrive and start shooting.
Good advice re. the Leica Q. I had not thought about the dust issue.
Thanks Thomas, yes I hoped to save a few othes Q shooters! (Apparently it affected early models the most and then it depends in what conditions you shoot in but better to be safe for me!).
Never had a single dust problem with mine which I have had since the year it came out.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom This is a long-standing problem, and not specifically for this model of camera or lens. This problem exists for most Zoom/Vario lenses that have the front of the lens extending out of the lens barrel (the design itself works like a pump piston here). In closed lenses (without a retractable "trunk"), such a dust collection effect is much less common / less. The same problem exists with the Leica D-Lux 7, LUMIX LX 100, Panasonic LX 100 II camera models, these models very often end up in the service for the dust cleaning procedure. It is strange that with your great experience you do not know about it.
I’m using the M-system for more than 25 years,
the M2 from my year of birth, the MP and the M10R in black paint. There are a lot of camera-system, witch are better to use, the M-system is my personal favorite, cause I like the history of the M-system and manuell focus, speed, …
As a professional photographer I would use a fast af system, but I’m just shooting for myself :)
Nice! I still need to shoot a roll in a MP to fully appreciate them.
Loved the comparisons and the why’s. However, I’m saving up for a digital M..
Thanks Avery! I think the M is on many people’s wish list!
Hi Matt! I own a Fujifilm x-pro 3 for street photography but I am also dreaming of Leica since I was a kid. I love optical rangefinder cameras and my 35mm (makes 50mm for FF) is almost always mounted. I have a 18mm lens that I barely use. The thing that scares me the most about the M-camera (except for the price lol) is the manual focus… What do you think?
Hi Stephanie, sorry I missed this. The MF is the fun bit so i think you’d get used to it snd start to enjoy the process. Going slower will give better composed images (usually)
Great overview. What is missing in Leica's line, is a Leica Q-system with exchangeable M-lens mount (or call it a Leica M with EVF instead of OVF). Leica most likely wants to avoid in-house competition with such full-frame camera since it would negatively affect M, Q, and SL prices. But such camera would be a big hit for Leica.
Thanks MB, agreed!
What has really been missing from the Q line is a 35 mm (f 1.4 or 1.7?) version. Market issues with SONY’s RX1?
@@BrunoChalifour never selling my Q-P…….never selling my RX1R mkii. Love love them.
Here's the simple way to answer the question: are your images binary code stored on digital storage devices or whatever the latest cloud system is? Or, are they celluloid strips in a folder? Sorry, kids - in 10 years time, 15 years time - damn it, in 3 years time - your virtual images, your binary code, will be scattered all over the digital ether, tenuously holding onto whatever format is de-rigeur, while real photographic images - i.e., those unique strips of tactile analogue delight - will be sitting safe 'n' snug in wax-paper sleeves on a shelf. You want the right Leica? Buy any M-series analogue body - sans ghastly touch-screen and storage card - and shoot real photos on a roll of film. You can kid yourself all you want by spending ludicrous money on a digital atrocity with "Leica" stamped on it, but it won't give you what you crave - you experience of real photography. Save your money: buy any digital body from any of the big Japanese marques for your test shots, then do the serious shooting on a Leica M2-M7. As for the Monochrome - are Leica having a laugh? There are some born every minute! Load some of the superb Fomapan 400/135 into an M2 with the wonderfully capable and exceedingly affordable Jupiter 8 50/f2 and experience the genuine B&W deal.
Well said! I was going to do a film version of this video, I need to get onto it! And you shoot Foma with your Leica like me so your keeping it real :) I love Foma 100!
Best means nothing until you clarify your needs
Yes! I try to share the features of each camera so viewers can decide the best camera for their needs
My age and eye sight made it difficult to use M, so I changed to R Leica's, never regretted the change. You didn't mention the R bodies in your video
Thanks John, the video was for digital. I’ll do a film one too. Stay tuned, it sounds like you’ll be able to relate!
John, there dioptrie correction lenses for the M system viewfinder and they work great (plus the M viewfinder is definitely more clear than any R camera).
Get the EVF.
Well, these others are currently out of the budget, but I'm loving my Barnack. Hoping someday to be able to snag a Q or Q2, but I need to be able to justify it.
Barnacks are awesome James! I will do a film version of this video and give the Barnacks some love.
Thanks for the quick overview. A few additions for the M system, there are vision-correction lenses +/- 3 diopters that you can add to the viewfinder; ZEISS also make excellent lenses for the M (same price range as Voigtlander). Fora cheaper approach TTartisans and 7artisansalso make decent and affordable lenses (TTartisan 35 mm f 1.4 looks and is as solid as the latest Summilux 35 and with its 2aspherical lenses it is better than the pre-aspherical Summilux); I also know a few Nl Geographic (and definitely MAGNUM) photographers that have used Leica Ms. The Q (not the Q2 though) also uses the same (cheaper) batteries as the Panasonic GX system (+ a few alternative brands of Chinese battery makfers). The issue for most people with all Leica models is definitely the cost; 2 things to consider though: the exponential quality of the products (cameras and of course the lenses as Leitung is primarily a Lens designer and manufacturer) which makes its products extremely durable and pleasurable. Finally a question, although Leica has not added anything to the CL line for quite a while I do not think they have officially announced the end of the manufacturent of the T/CL line, have they?
Thanks Bruno! I’ll have to try to get the TT35/1.4 to test! I like they stuff. Yes I should have mentioned mire lens options including Zeiss. I forgot the diopter too, thanks for that.
And yes it was announced in May 22 about the CL sadly.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks Matt, I had not heard it even the guys on reddotforum did not know a week ago. Where did you hear it from?
@@BrunoChalifour I have a Patreon group of a Leica shooters around the world and everyone seemed to find out and agree at the same time. I’m not sure where it was announced.
forgot the M246 - great black and white
Thanks! Sorry there are so many models I group that with M240s
And for fashion photography, and stills, which camera you recommend (I am a beginner in Leica)
SL series 100%
Very interesting and informative. I would appreciate your opinion about the m262, which is a scaled down m240 with a long-lasting battery. Thanks
Thanks! I've never used the M262 but I know others that enjoy it. It will take the same photos as the M240.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks
Hey Matt. Funny because I think I actually have. I've got the QP which I love. I talked myself into an SL2s which is untouched in the bag since I collected it months ago. I should have gone with the SL2. I'm leaving it as is to trade in for the SL3 if it ever comes. Am I really saying this publicly 👀👉😔
Hey Dave, thanks. We're all human! I'm sure i've done the same at some point. Hopefully the SL3 will come soon so you can trade!
Nearly parted with my sl2s today. The AF drives me nuts .Not fast or accurate enough when things start moving. I didn`t in the end though as trade in isn`t good .So it remains together with my CL and primes plus 55-135 ( great system) and my 246 / m3 (which I`ve had nearly 30 years ) and my m4 .Have to get some full frame lenses for the SL2s . 24 /70 or 24/90 ?
Sorry to hear. The Lumix S5 II X would give you good AF and similar images I think. If you want to stay with Leica then the SL3 is coming (at some point). I prefer small lenses so I would never buy the 24-90. It's huge.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I prefer the small lenses too .Well I went for the lighter and faster 24/70 .Which incidentally is really good on the CL with great colours and a useful 35 to 105 range .
Leica Q lens has massive distortion. Only reason it doesn't look like crap is in-camera digital correction. Dealbreaker IMHO.
That will be the same for all electronic lenses, Sigma especially, Leica SL lenses, Lumix lenses and if you say, the Q then the Q2 and Q3 also. That's why I invest in proper M glass
I'm using the M3, MP and M10. One of them most definitely is the best Leica camera. :P
Leica M3 - best M viewfinder and rangefinder mechanism ever.
Leica MP - refined mechanical perfection.
Leica M10 - the digital forever M, true to the original M concept, best low light performance and no nonsense feature set of all digital Leica M cameras.
Other than M Leicas - who cares?! Are those even real Leicas? :P
I would say my Leica 3g is even more real of a real Leica than the M3 lol both fantastic, but don’t discount the Barnacks!
Thanks TW! Nice. Yes I’m a big M3 fan. I’ll give them some love soon!
Hi thank you very much your information is very good, I just will need money so for now I will make do.
Thanks, yes In my 20s I never dreamt of getting Leica, I used the cheap end of Nikon. As I did more weddings and workshops instead of saving to buy a house I invested it all back into the craft. First, the top of the line Nikon D800 on pre-order then during a workshop I was teaching in 2013 ish I was introduced to Leica and that was the start.
Comparing my M and my Fuji pix I don't think full frame really matters to me anymore. The CL becomes very attractive. Why oh why did you discontinue this Leica?!
Yes if used to APS-C look with your style of shooting CL is perfect.
Leica has kept silent about the T/CL system for while. They have not officially declared it dead (to my knowledge) and Leica has surprised us these past years. Let us see what the future will be made of.
Hello Sir,
Which setup will be good for both photos and videos?
Hi, some people like the SL2 for video. Others are not really video cameras. Lumix S bodies might be better.
The best is the M8 because I have one 😂
As a gateway to the M system it’s hard to beat but it’s price is increasing a lot so a better overall buy may be the m240 for a Leica M system newcomers.
I’d love a Q2 for its incredible versatility
Thanks Paul! The M8 is great, I had one for many years.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks for the reply. I had no idea it was such an old video. I was watching on my TV last night and this auto played.
I’ll never sell my m8 - I took it to Italy as my only camera with a 35mm and it was great
My vote goes to the M3, although you did make it sound like a big ass Nikon in that little soundbite when you clicked the shutter haha. In reality you almost cannot even hear it... Actually i just brought mine in for a CLA yesterday finally, wonder how it will come back, maybe even smoother...
Hey thanks Thomas! Ha yes the audio for that came out mega loud. I think an echo in my bathroom haha (I needed that light in the windowsill!)
Yes recent Leica Ms are far more silent. One issue lies for M users with the M3: no frame-lines in the viewfinder below 50 mm. For those street photographers or landscape photographers who use 35 or 28 mm lenses an M4P, M6, M7or MP might be better choices. (To my taste the M5 is a brick and its LightMeter system is not very reliable… especially mechanically (many used M5 are sold without a working LightMeter (original film CLs too, be warned).
Sorry but you are the second ytuber to say the Q system has IBIS, no it does not although the lens has OIS.
Thanks Victor. Sorry I probably said it wrong (IBIS vs OIS). Thanks for correction. As it is a fixed lens camera I just said it as a simple term so thanks for spotting that.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom no probs. “One lens only” on RUclips said the same and I assumed he was correct until a follower mentioned it, I had to check the manual to make sure lol.
Hi Matt
Another great video, I asked this question on one of your other videos, maybe it got missed. I’m interested in either m8 or m9. I’m hearing that these cameras are now suffering sensor corrosion, my question is have you heard of this and do you have any advice
Hi David, sorry if I missed your last comment and thanks. I do miss some replies (and I have a few old comments to still reply to). M8 - no sensor issues, M9 yes can happen. My M9 was one of the first ones to get it so Leica took it as a part-ex for my then M240 replacement. if happens today it's a dead M9.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom just buy one that has had the sensor replaced (make sure you get the paperwork confirming it has the new sensor) and you are good to go.
The issue with both models is definitely the Kodak sensors (CCDs) not to mention the original issue with IR. If you plan to get one get an M9 (more recent, more pixels, better technology) make sure it was retrofitted with a new sensor and remember Leica has stopped repairing them and no-one else will do it. A used M240 might be a better option (and a more long-term one).
Hey Matt, thanks for this video! Very helpful! Based on your experience how do you find shooting portrait with the fixed 28mm f1.7 lens on the Q system?Do you always keep the right distance from the subject in order to avoid possible distortion? I'm interested in the Q2 as a potential all in one do it all camera, for street, portrait and landscape, taking advantage of the 47mp for a 28/35/50mm virtual lens combo. 50mm is my fave focal length. Thanks!
Hey Marco, no I do go close to use the distortion too. I’ll take the Q on my next model trip and then make a video to share.
A 28 mm is definitely not a first-choice portrait lens, mostly because of the distorsions if you are close to your model. They can work for environmental portraiture though, when the photographer steps back à uses the surrounding to provide context/meaning for the portrait.
@@BrunoChalifour yes, you're right. That's why i asked Matt about it. I wonder if you maintain the right distance from your subject avoiding distortion, then using the 50mm crop function, you can get a good enough close-up portrait, even though you loose resolution down to 15mp, and I guess the bookeh won't be as good as a proper 50mm lens
@@MarcoMarfia The issue with the crop function is that is still a 28mm image... cropped with the same amount of distorsions. It is true though that they are less visible in the center than at the periphery of the image.
Hey Matt, great overview. Thanks for that. Let me describe my dilemma. I shoot with Lumix S1 combining Leica M lenses like summicron/F2 asph, or Voigtlander Noctons, Zeiss Sonnar. Would I gain anything moving to Leica body itself? I prefer for photography 24 mpx which is better with M lenses. I know that Leica is using sensors from other manufacturers. I shoot RAW+combining with Fine JPG for L Monochrome D profile which I believe is great for BaW. But still tempted to try Leica body itself. Your view on that? Appreciated.
Hi Ivan, thanks. In terms of final image. If you edit you can probably get the same image from both (see my S5 vs SL video), out of camera Leica files will win, and using the camera Leica will win as nicer to hold.
..SL2-S if wanted 24mp and same VF as S1
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks. You just confimred my thinking.
@@ihlavanda 👍🏻
Having any Leica is good, but having all Leicas is the best ;-)
Ha thanks!
How about the m mount PIXII range finder?
People keep asking me to try that. I’ll try if get the oppo!
Getting better but expensive for such a camera ;(whose future no-one knows) too bad it is a good idea (but a limited and expensive one so far although as said before, improving).
Did i buy the wrong Leica Camera , at the time when i brought the V-Lux 5 i thought i did , but now its grown on me , its a great camera for my street photography , with a fixed 25 - 400mm lens , i would be interested on your thoughts on this camera if you ever used one, someone told me recently that its not a proper Lieca camera and i should get rid of it.
Great video Matt as usual........
Thanks Michael, some people say the fixed lens Leica compacts are not real Leicas but if you enjoy it that's all that matters. I think when people say proper Leica they means film Leicas (most but especially M's). digital M and maybeee SL. (CL and Q probably not)..but they are all nicely made, the 4 in this video especially.
Great video.
Which camera are you using to shoot this video?
Thanks Siya, don't laugh.. Lumix GX880 + Olympus 45/1.8! (My new secret weapon! See any of the last 10 videos to confirm, all with the same. I used to use Lumix S5 (still have it) and before than Lumix GH5 (sold).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom wow never heard of this camera.
Why you switched from s5?
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom You are the living proof that gears don't matter.
@@siyaram2855 ha yes
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I am looking for a setup for daily vlog, can you suggest something light yet gives great video quality?
I liked your Panasonic 880 but it has only 5mins recording options in 4k.
Matt : Do you think buying a DR 50mm F2 SUMMICRON is a good idea , Imlove my 50mm lenses and have used mostly my L39 Canon 50mm 1.2 ( magical ) 50mm F1.4 ( compact great contrast ) , then yes …. I have a converted 50mm 0.95 the man who is retired now…built the FOX 50mm 0.95 and I fell in love with that rich color…rendition… so please answer in your experience with these 50mm lenses , do you think the DR SUMMICRON has a valuable niche ? On my SONY body , the DR , can fit atop the Voightlander close focus M / NEX Mount and I can get very very close …
Well Matt; I hope did not ramble on too long. Looking at a DR SUMMICRON 50mm F2 , that was built the year I was born. 1960 So there is a connection. Thanks Matt 🙏🏻
Hey Chris, see my Cron video for samples + blog post (full res samples). DR is nice, will give low contrast sharp look.
The problem with all these lenses is that in the vast majority of the cases you cannot use one if not the key feature of the M system: the rangefinder. In such case you could use any camera with the same results!
Sorry Matt I’m struggling with Leica overload, usually much more broadly interesting.
Thanks Gary, yes sorry no photos in this one, just a lot of info. I’ll try to do an easier to watch video next/ soon.
why you say if there is a wrong buying of Leica .. whoever go to buy Leica .. already knows whats Leica all about .. so NOTHING wrong with anything .. Cheers to knowledge.
Thanks Ramsey! You'd be surprised. People know the brand is good but often don't get a chance to test before buying so may just buy whatever they see people say is good on RUclips.
Leica stopped APSC, so no more CL/TL.
Thanks Alex, sadly yes
Again where does the news come from? When?
It's ail money issues! No right or wrong.
Thanks Philip, see the next video for something cheaper
Not only…
My favorite Leica?: The Canon VT Deluxe. Buy it with a nice Voigtlander Color Skopar and a few bricks of film, then donate your saving to charity.🌿📷👍
Nicely said! I still have a Canon camera to review, waiting to finish the film!
Also Leica is killing off the APC camera line so the Leica CL is a dead system now 😔 Leica will stop the support within 6 years.
Thanks Floris, yes that is sad news. I know the little CL has a small but dedicated following.
Where does this news come from? Leica? If so when?
Turns out I bought four of the wrong Leicas! Oops. :)
Haha, they are all great in their own rights. You're safe I think Dan :)
Yes ! I use the best "Leica" Camera Sony A7RIV 😉
Haha I’m sure there are Sony, Fuji and other options for those that enjoy other brands. :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom At least cheaper, but still with very high quality
The M11 is literally the A7RIV
I have Sony A7r4, along with SL2 and a couple of digital m bodies. I like them all but I do prefer the looks and simplcity of the m.
@@streetinvertphoto963 So why pay so bloody many $ for the M11 !
How to avoid making mistake while buying Leica? Don't buy any of these... 1!11
Haha, what is your preference?
THANK YOU ! now to go look for $30,000
Haha, if it helps get a used SL and vintage lens and you good to go for under $2000 .. still money I realise
Yes, the cl is not a good camera
Thanks Gustavo
How so? I have used one for years and find it excellent at what it does and is supposed to do.
Leica M all the way. I don't understand however why get a M to use non leica lenses.... sacrilege!? Priority is leica lens... the camera body isn't spectacular in itself. Bit odd fronting other lenses on a leica body - if going there it's a body for the glass.
Maybe people like the experience of using a rangefinder style digital full frame camera that nobody else makes? Maybe people get an M body but can't quite afford a $3000 lens yet? I don't think it's that hard to understand why if you really think about it.
@@redcitybluesman fair
Different perspectives then....
@@redcitybluesman ps. $3000 lens, no. Can get leica lenses less than $1000.... but your argument is valid.
Ha thanks, yes I know many are pure Leica fans. Agree with your point on M glass but when other lenses started to give better results I woke up to the fact and started selling some M lenses replacing with better cheaper options. No right or wrong opinions on this, just what works for me.
@@redcitybluesman personally I enjoy using Leica bodies over other brands yet I can get good images with various brand lenses (for my taste).