It’s so refreshing to hear someone on RUclips with real-world experience. You had me when you said “for low light, f/2.8 doesn’t work for me”. Man, I feel that pain...
Love the fact that you are discussing L-mount products on a regular basis. I have a Panasonic Lumix S1R so always eager to hear about others experiences with L-mount products. Thanks Hugh!
I looked at this and then bought a Sigma 40mm for my Sony setup. I tested the light gathering on both, the 40mm is better than and I think they are equally sharp. The sharpness is the reason you buy either. I needed the detail with my Sony a7riv and it is a crazy good landscape lens of you can plug the weight. I can crop without mercy if 40mm is too wide. The 40mm ends being a decent cine lens, having the same build design, and it makes a decent night photography lens. All that said I'd rather take my X-Pro3 and 23mm f2 out and skip the advil. :)
I had the same feelings after I’ve tested the 1.2! Finally I’ve decided to jump in. Never regretted! I’m using it on my S1H in Manual focus for video. It’s mind blowing and so easy to focus even with the S1H screen 😊 Its really gives us artistic possibilities! And the focal length is soooo versatile. Have it on 90% of the time
Zsolt Cselenyi , hi , I am really surprise to see your comment as I will be traveling next month just to come to B&H and buy gear and the S1H is one of the cameras that I am leaning towards the most , I want it strictly for Video documentary work. I am in love with 35mm focal length and I am curious to know if this combo is something that you could go out with everyday? If you still like it as much or if its not to big , or is the weight of this lens with this camera what we would call good weight, that helps with handheld shots ? Would you have preferred the 1.4 sigma? And have you tried any of the leica lenses on this camera for video work? They seem a bit smaller.... Please pleas please let me know how you feel about this combo after that you have had it for some time now.
ORGANISMX I’m really satisfied with the lens! It’s extremely sharp and the focus throw is adjustable with the S1H as it’s not mechanical but fly by wire, unlike the photography lens, like the 35 1.4, which have around 75 degrees range. On the other hand the 1.4 is a DSLR lens, not like the 1.2 which is designed for mirrorless cameras, from scratch! The weight balance is great as well (not like on the Sonys) because the body is heavier, larger and the grip is deeper. I don’t have issues with the weight and dimensions so far ;)
My Sigma 35mm 1.4 replaced my 24-70 2.8 and I rarely have it off of my camera doing event work (with the same strap no less), weddings etc. In maybe a year or two this could be a very tempting choice if it's anything like the remarkable 1.4 and as for things like drinks receptions where you dont want to use a flash or crank the hell out of your ISO.
I think it's worth mentioning the 23mm f/1.4 from fujifilm, only half a stop slower (sure the depth of field is different due to the crop), not so optically perfect but really usable and hike friendly weight and size. I'm really satisfied with my purchase ⭐
Paired with the small and often underestimated x-e3, it's my go to setup. To me, having a simple kit that you feel comfortable using is more valuable than any optical perfection (that often comes with too many disadvantages or compromise in other characteristics like size, weight or cost). Sorry for the rant 😂
Compactness is still a main factor for me. Therefore, so far, my main interest in L-mount lies with the 45/2.8 , and if/when we may see some more lenses along the lines of that one. A 35/2 would be more than fast enough for me most of the time. Meanwhile, my MFT 15/1.7 PL will just have to suffice....
I joined mirrorless in 2014 and vowed not to ever go heavy so I got the a6000, well since then, I have an a7rii and a 70200f2.8. I have come to realize that for high quality, weight comes with the territory. I really wanted to like the Sony 35f1.8, but the sacrifices for small volume, just was not worth it. Too much vignetting and I blame the size of it. If Sigma gives you the sharpness you like, then you will have not care about the size and weight.
In my book the best legacy primes in this focal length range, from 24mm right up to around 105mm at 35mm or full-frame format - Leitz Summicron, Nikon F, Canon FD etc - were always the f2 versions. They possessed the most desirable coalescence of virtues: sharp, affordable and compact. I don’t think anything has changed. The big companies produced faster lenses for the news hounds in the film days, but the compromises in totality accrued dramatically. And they were expensive. Nothing much is different now except for the huge improvement of performance at maximum aperture, except that these modern lenses are bigger than ever and even more expensive. A lens like the Sony Zeiss 55mm 1:1.8 is as good and as versatile as anyone can ever need - and it is small !
Another excellent, video, Hugh! As per usual, your analysis with both insight _and_ context differentiates your content from everyone else. Happy New Year!
Welcome back sir. Hope you had a great Xmas , and the wife bought you the new whole Leica full frame lens set! Lol....you should be so lucky. Happy new year to ya as well.
Great review around the Sigma 35mm 1.2 > does this lens meet the quality of the Leica 35mm 2.0 APO? I’m curious if you have compared both on your SL2. Thanks
My local store had the Sigma 35mm 1.2 for about 40% discount for a refurbished unit and I grabbed it. Before this lens, I have only been using my 50mm Summilux SL as my only lens (I absolutely adore this lens). I appreciate the wider view of the 35mm. The first thing I noticed it is that the 35mm is really nicely built but the lens hood feels cheap. Not as perfect as Leica's build quality but it feels really nice. It is about as heavy as the Lux-SL with the same filter thread and it balances quite nicely with the large and heavy SL body. It is large especially for a 35mm. My shaky hands makes shooting at f1.2 a bit tough but it is insane when you do hit it right. Set the aperture to anything slower than f1.2 and things get easier and easier. Night time shooting is spectacular...Ill be honest though, the bokeh balls has a tendency to "football". AF is fast enough for me but my standard for AF is pretty slow (Lux-SL). For my limited skills and knowledge, this is one of those "if you get it right, you win". For video, I can say it works well enough. Video at f1.2 is really tough! Regardless, you dont need the f1.2 all the time but it is nice to have that option. As for colors, Im not sure if Im just spoiled by the Leica lens but it isnt as pretty or accurate. It is a bit dull in comparison (unedited, of course). I cant explain it but is that the "Leica look"? With the Lux-SL, I can use most shots without lighting/color edits. The colors from this lens is still pretty and accurate nonetheless. Whatever it is, Im glad to have this piece of Art as part of my learning process. Now, Im looking for a fast, longer focal length lens.
I debated on this or the Tamron SP 35mm 1.4 adapted to my A7iii via the Mc-11 adapter. I went with the Tamron and I don’t regret it. But I think the general consensus regarding the Sigma 35mm 1.2 af seems more reliable on the Sony e mount than the Leica L mount.
No truer words were ever spoken then at 10:36. Bravo. One body, one lens, maybe a tripod and two feet - if you “need” more than that then perhaps you “need” to develop your people skills more, or maybe your sensitivity to composition “needs” work. I say that in all humility, since I judge myself lacking in both. I just know that solutions to my issues will not come from spending big money on more gear. Please don’t get me wrong, I truly enjoy - no love is the more proper word - using well designed high end gear. My go to camera is a Hasselblad 500 c/m. But I use that camera because it addresses particular, self imposed, requirements of a very fine grained, tack sharp analog printed photograph. I admit though, the characteristics of a great image, have nothing to do with MTF functions or megapixels, but everything to do with subject and composition. Getting the subject has to do with my willingness to find it and my abilities to engage with it to achieve the opportunity for a fine photograph. My sense of composition and to a lesser degree my technical competence allow me to capture the image. Dead last in importance, beyond some basic threshold of a well maintained and functioning instrument, is the camera and lens combination that is remotely appropriate for the photographic scenario. With due regard to the wonders of today’s technology, the manufacturers of camera gear would want us to think that only with the latest, or most specification impressive gear is any quality photography possible. Of course, in the hands of an artist, the boundaries of photography can be pushed by the latest gear, but for the more pedestrian among us, which I include myself, there are far more important topics that need to be addressed to improve our photography. Thanks for another great video, well for at least the nuggets about recognizing what we really need as opposed to what is available. Sincerely, Charlie.
What, no Fujifilm! (Sorry, couldn’t resist 😜). Great thoughtful review as always. Never going to be in the market for something like this, but it is informative to see where items sit in the general photographic landscape and to have reiterated the factors one needs to consider when making choices. For me that is size, weight, shooting experience and SOOC jpegs, which makes the X-Pro3 (and the almost permanently welded to the front 35mf2) the ideal choice, 99% of the time 😀. But as the young uns say, YMMV.
The "Sigma 35mm 1.4 for Leica L" is still on sale at b&h for half the price of the 1.2. I have one coming, and can't wait to try it out on my S1R. My Sigma 56mm 1.4 is my lowlight favorite on my G9, so I have big expectations.
Very interesting as always, Hugh! I am strongly considering going FF, specifically with the Panasonic Lumix S1 and one or two Lumix L mount lenses, judging from reviews I've seen. Have you tested the "High Resolution Mode" of the S1 and S1R? It is precisely because of that feature that makes me lean towards the S1, since I don't need the 47MB resolution of the S1R for occasional large (30"x40" )print I produce, and the cost savings would go towards another Lumix lens. BTW, pardon the following possibly ignorant question, but if the specs of the Leica SL2 are similar to that of the Panasonic S1R (without the S1R's myriad external controls and features), and the image output is not significantly different than other top-of-the-line mirrorless systems, may I ask what exactly drew you to the Leica? Thank you!
FYI I shoot the 18-35 on a Nikon D7500. I dream of switching to L mount in the hopes of the latest X3 Foveon body coming in the future. I shot for years with a Sigma SD14 and was just captivated by the look of the images.
Hugh, have you tried mapping two of your fn buttons on the S1R to near and far autofocus? I use the two front buttons near the lens. These options are ONLY available when mapped to buttons and they work just like back-button focus with a priority for near or far subjects, respectively. I’ve noticed if my back-button AF misses or won’t focus, one of the near/far options will typically hit. I don’t have the sigma 35, but I’d be interested to hear if it works any better for you.
Love the Leica and Panasonic S1 stuff and their direction. The L mount alliance is a good thing . I’m Nikon invested and staying except for maybe the S1h for video productions. Just got the Sigma 40mm Art today. Did some quick photos in good light . Damn it’s sharp and the colors so nice . Deep rich contrast . Think I’m going to like this beast
Need to get a life! 3.08 am. Interesting video again. My view is fairly simple and practical, I think, in that there is a balance between cost (including that to my physical strength) and use/improvement of my photography. For me chasing the extra stop doesn’t carry the day. If I can have the eye and the opportunity at 1.4/2.0 or even 2.8 and can pull it off then save the £’s for other material, like film for my analogue adventures I would prefer that. I shoot jazz concerts almost in the dark with FujiFilm kit, albeit at a higher ISO but I feel the sensor can handle it. Granted the bigger the print the more noise but printing is another whole new video, such are the advances in that medium. So at my time of life I will nurse my back and bank account and leave these big barrels alone, for now! A thoughtful video nevertheless!
While my E mount Sony A7RIV with the Sigma 35 f1.2 will not offer me the same experience as your Leica, I am getting a remarkable AF hit rate with it at 1.2 .. add to that the “croptastic” ability of 61mps, I am finding at least 2 to 3 different yet compelling high resolution compositions in each and every photo.. the downside is that I am spending way more time in Lightroom than I used to because of the new superpower this lens bestows on me and it is beginning to affect my marriage and social life .. sadly.. 😉
Getting past the stratospheric comparative cost factor of Leica platforms, the practical portability factor of a camera/lens system is directly related to intended use. For me, the intended use of the equipment I have will more likely be while traveling (as in planes, trains and transit) or heading out onto trails here in the Pacific Northwest (think coastal, mountain and high desert locations - many requiring a trek of some sort). One thinks about size and weight when hiking to the summit of The Watchman. This is especially true when the intended end product will, at best, end up in a government or NPO publication and not as a large print in a gallery. To this end, I'm headed back to APS-C as a primary system platform ... Wish me luck. Have a good 2020!
I loved the comment about focus and recompose. it seems to be a bit of a lost art but such a simple thing to learn and perfect. Also, very happy to hear that you use the 47mp sensor and a wide-angle lens for the purpose of being able to crop in to create stellar images. Straight out of camera or cropped and edited seem to be irrelevant, it is the final image that matters right? BTW: I am hoping to see a review of the Z7 coupled with the 24mm soon.
@@3BMEP Yeah I own the z6, it is a remarkable piece of equipment, but I don't consider the z7 as an upgrade. I want a dual card slot z8/9 with the 60mp and I can wait a year or more for it. I think you will like the z6 coupled to the 24mm.
The question that really needs to be asked now days is, what are the gains one is getting with this new wave of glass that companies are trying to get photographers to buy. Now I have pretty much every focal length I could ever need for my Nikon and the lens I probably most use is the Voigtlander 58mm f/1.4 and most of what I am shooting is at f/10 because for studio work more often than not I don't need f/1.4. People lust over certain lenses but much of the time, they will never need them. I have the Zeiss 85mm f/1.4 Milvus. I fell in love with the lens, the first day it came into the shop and within a month it was in my collection. Since then I hardly use it because it is just a pain to focus with and I ended up getting the Nikkor 105mm f/1.4e because whilst it isn't optically as good (it is quite close) it has autofocus and is much more practical (I do use f/2-2.8 for outdoor headshots). The vast majority of the time I don't need f/1.4 lenses though and so far I have not found a reason why I need more the 36mp because my prints whilst big are not so huge that it is going to be an issue. So people need to realise that most of the time these f/1.2 lenses are really just spec porn and the difference they make isn't going to be huge in the real world.
@@3BMEP Yes they are. As a Nikon photographer for the past 15 years I've never been as frustrated as I've been in the past year with the Z system and I just decided to pick an A9II. Really appreciate your videos.
The Sigma lenses seem to have such high acutance that the images look like they’ve been sharpened in post or is that just me. Don’t get me wrong I’m not a shoot on old cheesy vintage glass kinda guy (although it can be nice to do that to) but I find something about the Sigma lenses looks upsetting. I suppose it’s the combination of very high acutance and more micro contrast than the human eye actually sees. I really like the look of new Leica glass although in this case I prefer their pre aspherical counterparts for that bit more character and still stellar performance. And what Zeiss is doing, especially in the cinema world with their Signature Primes is just outstanding. Still, I personally gravitate towards the Panavision Primos and Cooke S4s as far as what speaks most to me in teams of spherical lenses. I guess that’s why I’m shooting my films on the Veydras. The Sigma 35mm f1.2 would be an incredible lens to put on a S1H and shoot some narrative stuff in really low light wide opened at 4.000 ASA. I guess I’d put on 1/8th Black Pro Mist or maybe even a Black Satin for that.
This was exactly the video I wanted to see on this lens! Just bought an S1 and it's probably the best camera I've ever used and I've been looking at this lens. It seems to render image quality reminiscent of medium format, and I think it makes a lovely match on the S series beefier bodies. I can only imagine how good an 85 1.2 would be from Sigma. Thank you!
My search was over when I found Leica's CL and the 23mm f/2 for my 'street and travel' needs (not a shabby landscape lens either). Never missed full frame. Now looking for wider angle APSC lens options. Not an awful lot to choose from. Always enjoy Your thoughts.
. . I am hard of hearing Hi Hugh, I have ordered the Sl-2 with the Sl 35 mm so I don't know how long a wait will be. Not sure if I should go with the Sl-35 mm or a smaller Voigtlander 35 mm 1.2 or Leica M 35 mm 2.0 and Zeiss T 35mm F 2.0. I am not sure which lens you choose for your Sl- 2 as I am hard of hearing. If get a chance to test any lens like these on I would love your thoughts. Thank You Hugh
Hugh do you recommend Summicron SL 35mm for video work too? Is it possible to achieve smooth focus pulls with it ? I am looking at getting S1H for video work, and I am looking for the best 35mm I can get for for everyday cary . Please give me some feedback if you can.
Thanks Hugh, my Leica M10-P White + 50mm f/1.4 Summilux (limited-edition set of 350 units) is arriving tomorrow. I paid USD $18,300 ($14,500 + tax/customs). The SL2 ($5,995) + Summilux-SL 50mm f/1.4 ASPH ($5,295) = $11,290 i.e. $3200 less compared to the manual Rangefinder M10P (white). However, the regular M10-P ($7,995) + 50 summilux ($4,695) = $12,690 and that too is less than my limited edition, of course. I'm paying a premium of $1800 for the white-colored body & accessories (strap/case etc.), which is neither available in SL series nor M. I went for it only due to my love of white. The modern SL lenses are sharper than old M-lenses (exception: 50 & 90 APO), but user-experience of SL2 is different from shooting a rangefinder ... & AF lenses for SL system are almost close to Sigma 35/1.2 in volume ...so not for me, the size/weight of SL2 itself was a deterrent (much like the Panasonic S1R). The SL2 is a beauty & a beast, a 2-in-1. I will think of it after i have mastered the M first.
Hi Hugh, great Video - thank for this. Yes this Lens is big - but soooo good. On the S1R Panasonic a Beast. Greet from Berlin - Frank - you have the 16-35 mm 4.0 for the S1R 😢😢😢 i must wait for it 😢😢😢
I question your ability to crop. Bernie was still in the picture 😀. Seriously, in using Canon’s 35mm 1.4L lens I rarely open it all the way. Much happier with the results at 2.8+. That lens is also an excellent lens.
I much doubt the Leica SL2's sensor's colour accuracy when you evaluate lens with this camera. you can see how bad leica's sensor performed in terms of colour accuracy:pdnonline.com/gear/cameras/the-best-cameras-for-color-reproduction-ranked/
It’s so refreshing to hear someone on RUclips with real-world experience. You had me when you said “for low light, f/2.8 doesn’t work for me”. Man, I feel that pain...
Love the fact that you are discussing L-mount products on a regular basis. I have a Panasonic Lumix S1R so always eager to hear about others experiences with L-mount products. Thanks Hugh!
Tami L Howard My pleasure! 🙏🏻
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions +1 👍🏻🙏🏻
I looked at this and then bought a Sigma 40mm for my Sony setup. I tested the light gathering on both, the 40mm is better than and I think they are equally sharp. The sharpness is the reason you buy either. I needed the detail with my Sony a7riv and it is a crazy good landscape lens of you can plug the weight. I can crop without mercy if 40mm is too wide. The 40mm ends being a decent cine lens, having the same build design, and it makes a decent night photography lens. All that said I'd rather take my X-Pro3 and 23mm f2 out and skip the advil. :)
I had the same feelings after I’ve tested the 1.2! Finally I’ve decided to jump in. Never regretted! I’m using it on my S1H in Manual focus for video. It’s mind blowing and so easy to focus even with the S1H screen 😊 Its really gives us artistic possibilities! And the focal length is soooo versatile. Have it on 90% of the time
Zsolt Cselenyi , hi , I am really surprise to see your comment as I will be traveling next month just to come to B&H and buy gear and the S1H is one of the cameras that I am leaning towards the most , I want it strictly for Video documentary work. I am in love with 35mm focal length and I am curious to know if this combo is something that you could go out with everyday? If you still like it as much or if its not to big , or is the weight of this lens with this camera what we would call good weight, that helps with handheld shots ? Would you have preferred the 1.4 sigma? And have you tried any of the leica lenses on this camera for video work? They seem a bit smaller.... Please pleas please let me know how you feel about this combo after that you have had it for some time now.
ORGANISMX I’m really satisfied with the lens! It’s extremely sharp and the focus throw is adjustable with the S1H as it’s not mechanical but fly by wire, unlike the photography lens, like the 35 1.4, which have around 75 degrees range. On the other hand the 1.4 is a DSLR lens, not like the 1.2 which is designed for mirrorless cameras, from scratch! The weight balance is great as well (not like on the Sonys) because the body is heavier, larger and the grip is deeper. I don’t have issues with the weight and dimensions so far ;)
One of the best reviews I have ever watched!
My Sigma 35mm 1.4 replaced my 24-70 2.8 and I rarely have it off of my camera doing event work (with the same strap no less), weddings etc. In maybe a year or two this could be a very tempting choice if it's anything like the remarkable 1.4 and as for things like drinks receptions where you dont want to use a flash or crank the hell out of your ISO.
thanks for this comment you saved me $1700 tonight im going with the 35 1.4
@@lortakeover2129 Happy to help! Enjoy it
I think it's worth mentioning the 23mm f/1.4 from fujifilm, only half a stop slower (sure the depth of field is different due to the crop), not so optically perfect but really usable and hike friendly weight and size. I'm really satisfied with my purchase ⭐
Paired with the small and often underestimated x-e3, it's my go to setup. To me, having a simple kit that you feel comfortable using is more valuable than any optical perfection (that often comes with too many disadvantages or compromise in other characteristics like size, weight or cost).
Sorry for the rant 😂
Compactness is still a main factor for me. Therefore, so far, my main interest in L-mount lies with the 45/2.8 , and if/when we may see some more lenses along the lines of that one. A 35/2 would be more than fast enough for me most of the time. Meanwhile, my MFT 15/1.7 PL will just have to suffice....
Jason Hannigan with you. Stay tuned for my take on the 45/2.8. In the meantime, we do own and love our Leica DG Summilux 15/1.7.
I joined mirrorless in 2014 and vowed not to ever go heavy so I got the a6000, well since then, I have an a7rii and a 70200f2.8. I have come to realize that for high quality, weight comes with the territory. I really wanted to like the Sony 35f1.8, but the sacrifices for small volume, just was not worth it. Too much vignetting and I blame the size of it. If Sigma gives you the sharpness you like, then you will have not care about the size and weight.
In my book the best legacy primes in this focal length range, from 24mm right up to around 105mm at 35mm or full-frame format - Leitz Summicron, Nikon F, Canon FD etc - were always the f2 versions. They possessed the most desirable coalescence of virtues: sharp, affordable and compact. I don’t think anything has changed. The big companies produced faster lenses for the news hounds in the film days, but the compromises in totality accrued dramatically. And they were expensive. Nothing much is different now except for the huge improvement of performance at maximum aperture, except that these modern lenses are bigger than ever and even more expensive. A lens like the Sony Zeiss 55mm 1:1.8 is as good and as versatile as anyone can ever need - and it is small !
Simon Tasker agree with you on all points, Simon!
Another excellent, video, Hugh! As per usual, your analysis with both insight _and_ context differentiates your content from everyone else. Happy New Year!
Stephen Scharf Stephen! 🥰
Welcome back sir. Hope you had a great Xmas , and the wife bought you the new whole Leica full frame lens set! Lol....you should be so lucky. Happy new year to ya as well.
Happy 2020 to you and loved ones 🙏🏾
Great review around the Sigma 35mm 1.2 > does this lens meet the quality of the Leica 35mm 2.0 APO? I’m curious if you have compared both on your SL2. Thanks
I wanna to know too
My local store had the Sigma 35mm 1.2 for about 40% discount for a refurbished unit and I grabbed it. Before this lens, I have only been using my 50mm Summilux SL as my only lens (I absolutely adore this lens). I appreciate the wider view of the 35mm.
The first thing I noticed it is that the 35mm is really nicely built but the lens hood feels cheap. Not as perfect as Leica's build quality but it feels really nice. It is about as heavy as the Lux-SL with the same filter thread and it balances quite nicely with the large and heavy SL body. It is large especially for a 35mm.
My shaky hands makes shooting at f1.2 a bit tough but it is insane when you do hit it right. Set the aperture to anything slower than f1.2 and things get easier and easier. Night time shooting is spectacular...Ill be honest though, the bokeh balls has a tendency to "football". AF is fast enough for me but my standard for AF is pretty slow (Lux-SL). For my limited skills and knowledge, this is one of those "if you get it right, you win". For video, I can say it works well enough. Video at f1.2 is really tough! Regardless, you dont need the f1.2 all the time but it is nice to have that option.
As for colors, Im not sure if Im just spoiled by the Leica lens but it isnt as pretty or accurate. It is a bit dull in comparison (unedited, of course). I cant explain it but is that the "Leica look"? With the Lux-SL, I can use most shots without lighting/color edits. The colors from this lens is still pretty and accurate nonetheless.
Whatever it is, Im glad to have this piece of Art as part of my learning process. Now, Im looking for a fast, longer focal length lens.
Sigma 85/1.4 or SummicronSL 90.
I debated on this or the Tamron SP 35mm 1.4 adapted to my A7iii via the Mc-11 adapter. I went with the Tamron and I don’t regret it. But I think the general consensus regarding the Sigma 35mm 1.2 af seems more reliable on the Sony e mount than the Leica L mount.
No truer words were ever spoken then at 10:36. Bravo. One body, one lens, maybe a tripod and two feet - if you “need” more than that then perhaps you “need” to develop your people skills more, or maybe your sensitivity to composition “needs” work. I say that in all humility, since I judge myself lacking in both. I just know that solutions to my issues will not come from spending big money on more gear. Please don’t get me wrong, I truly enjoy - no love is the more proper word - using well designed high end gear. My go to camera is a Hasselblad 500 c/m. But I use that camera because it addresses particular, self imposed, requirements of a very fine grained, tack sharp analog printed photograph. I admit though, the characteristics of a great image, have nothing to do with MTF functions or megapixels, but everything to do with subject and composition. Getting the subject has to do with my willingness to find it and my abilities to engage with it to achieve the opportunity for a fine photograph. My sense of composition and to a lesser degree my technical competence allow me to capture the image. Dead last in importance, beyond some basic threshold of a well maintained and functioning instrument, is the camera and lens combination that is remotely appropriate for the photographic scenario.
With due regard to the wonders of today’s technology, the manufacturers of camera gear would want us to think that only with the latest, or most specification impressive gear is any quality photography possible. Of course, in the hands of an artist, the boundaries of photography can be pushed by the latest gear, but for the more pedestrian among us, which I include myself, there are far more important topics that need to be addressed to improve our photography.
Thanks for another great video, well for at least the nuggets about recognizing what we really need as opposed to what is available.
Sincerely, Charlie.
You know you’re succeeding when RUclips insert so many ads into your video.
What, no Fujifilm! (Sorry, couldn’t resist 😜). Great thoughtful review as always. Never going to be in the market for something like this, but it is informative to see where items sit in the general photographic landscape and to have reiterated the factors one needs to consider when making choices. For me that is size, weight, shooting experience and SOOC jpegs, which makes the X-Pro3 (and the almost permanently welded to the front 35mf2) the ideal choice, 99% of the time 😀. But as the young uns say, YMMV.
I DO mention I forgot to mention Fuji! 😜 GREAT system!!!
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions Hence the smiley 😜 Would never have considered it a deliberate omission.
The "Sigma 35mm 1.4 for Leica L" is still on sale at b&h for half the price of the 1.2. I have one coming, and can't wait to try it out on my S1R. My Sigma 56mm 1.4 is my lowlight favorite on my G9, so I have big expectations.
Steve Schnetzler Please keep me posted!
Very interesting as always, Hugh! I am strongly considering going FF, specifically with the Panasonic Lumix S1 and one or two Lumix L mount lenses, judging from reviews I've seen. Have you tested the "High Resolution Mode" of the S1 and S1R? It is precisely because of that feature that makes me lean towards the S1, since I don't need the 47MB resolution of the S1R for occasional large (30"x40" )print I produce, and the cost savings would go towards another Lumix lens. BTW, pardon the following possibly ignorant question, but if the specs of the Leica SL2 are similar to that of the Panasonic S1R (without the S1R's myriad external controls and features), and the image output is not significantly different than other top-of-the-line mirrorless systems, may I ask what exactly drew you to the Leica? Thank you!
A CL with an L mount version of the 18-35 1.8 would be an interesting set up to show up at an event like you do.
FYI I shoot the 18-35 on a Nikon D7500. I dream of switching to L mount in the hopes of the latest X3 Foveon body coming in the future. I shot for years with a Sigma SD14 and was just captivated by the look of the images.
Like the Leica DG Vario-Summilux 10-25/1.7? 😎
Hugh, have you tried mapping two of your fn buttons on the S1R to near and far autofocus? I use the two front buttons near the lens. These options are ONLY available when mapped to buttons and they work just like back-button focus with a priority for near or far subjects, respectively. I’ve noticed if my back-button AF misses or won’t focus, one of the near/far options will typically hit. I don’t have the sigma 35, but I’d be interested to hear if it works any better for you.
Absolutely a delight to watch and learn
Harry burnett 🙏🏻
Love the Leica and Panasonic S1 stuff and their direction. The L mount alliance is a good thing .
I’m Nikon invested and staying except for maybe the S1h for video productions.
Just got the Sigma 40mm Art today. Did some quick photos in good light . Damn it’s sharp and the colors so nice . Deep rich contrast . Think I’m going to like this beast
Need to get a life! 3.08 am. Interesting video again. My view is fairly simple and practical, I think, in that there is a balance between cost (including that to my physical strength) and use/improvement of my photography. For me chasing the extra stop doesn’t carry the day. If I can have the eye and the opportunity at 1.4/2.0 or even 2.8 and can pull it off then save the £’s for other material, like film for my analogue adventures I would prefer that. I shoot jazz concerts almost in the dark with FujiFilm kit, albeit at a higher ISO but I feel the sensor can handle it. Granted the bigger the print the more noise but printing is another whole new video, such are the advances in that medium. So at my time of life I will nurse my back and bank account and leave these big barrels alone, for now! A thoughtful video nevertheless!
Stephen W Dunn well-reasoned position! Thanks for sharing!
While my E mount Sony A7RIV with the Sigma 35 f1.2 will not offer me the same experience as your Leica, I am getting a remarkable AF hit rate with it at 1.2 .. add to that the “croptastic” ability of 61mps, I am finding at least 2 to 3 different yet compelling high resolution compositions in each and every photo.. the downside is that I am spending way more time in Lightroom than I used to because of the new superpower this lens bestows on me and it is beginning to affect my marriage and social life .. sadly.. 😉
I fee your joy... and pain. 😎
Getting past the stratospheric comparative cost factor of Leica platforms, the practical portability factor of a camera/lens system is directly related to intended use. For me, the intended use of the equipment I have will more likely be while traveling (as in planes, trains and transit) or heading out onto trails here in the Pacific Northwest (think coastal, mountain and high desert locations - many requiring a trek of some sort). One thinks about size and weight when hiking to the summit of The Watchman. This is especially true when the intended end product will, at best, end up in a government or NPO publication and not as a large print in a gallery. To this end, I'm headed back to APS-C as a primary system platform ... Wish me luck.
Have a good 2020!
Sooo good. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Best review on yt! Period!
Great video !!! :)
🙏🏻😊
Thanks for the review, for those that can not always afford Lalique.
i want to know how your getting size percentages beacuse im not about to put a $1500 lens in a beaker of water to find the volume.
A lot of nice images Hugh. 👍
the keto life 🙏🏻😊
I loved the comment about focus and recompose. it seems to be a bit of a lost art but such a simple thing to learn and perfect. Also, very happy to hear that you use the 47mp sensor and a wide-angle lens for the purpose of being able to crop in to create stellar images. Straight out of camera or cropped and edited seem to be irrelevant, it is the final image that matters right? BTW: I am hoping to see a review of the Z7 coupled with the 24mm soon.
David Jackson sent the Z7 back; Z6 with 12-bit RAW coming...
@@3BMEP Yeah I own the z6, it is a remarkable piece of equipment, but I don't consider the z7 as an upgrade. I want a dual card slot z8/9 with the 60mp and I can wait a year or more for it. I think you will like the z6 coupled to the 24mm.
great review and great photos!
🙏🏻😊
The question that really needs to be asked now days is, what are the gains one is getting with this new wave of glass that companies are trying to get photographers to buy. Now I have pretty much every focal length I could ever need for my Nikon and the lens I probably most use is the Voigtlander 58mm f/1.4 and most of what I am shooting is at f/10 because for studio work more often than not I don't need f/1.4.
People lust over certain lenses but much of the time, they will never need them. I have the Zeiss 85mm f/1.4 Milvus. I fell in love with the lens, the first day it came into the shop and within a month it was in my collection. Since then I hardly use it because it is just a pain to focus with and I ended up getting the Nikkor 105mm f/1.4e because whilst it isn't optically as good (it is quite close) it has autofocus and is much more practical (I do use f/2-2.8 for outdoor headshots).
The vast majority of the time I don't need f/1.4 lenses though and so far I have not found a reason why I need more the 36mp because my prints whilst big are not so huge that it is going to be an issue.
So people need to realise that most of the time these f/1.2 lenses are really just spec porn and the difference they make isn't going to be huge in the real world.
Sigma 35mm 1.2 in the Sony mount autofocuses extremely fast and precise...
Matei Horvath SONY is THE AF game in town.
@@3BMEP Yes they are. As a Nikon photographer for the past 15 years I've never been as frustrated as I've been in the past year with the Z system and I just decided to pick an A9II. Really appreciate your videos.
The Sigma lenses seem to have such high acutance that the images look like they’ve been sharpened in post or is that just me. Don’t get me wrong I’m not a shoot on old cheesy vintage glass kinda guy (although it can be nice to do that to) but I find something about the Sigma lenses looks upsetting. I suppose it’s the combination of very high acutance and more micro contrast than the human eye actually sees. I really like the look of new Leica glass although in this case I prefer their pre aspherical counterparts for that bit more character and still stellar performance. And what Zeiss is doing, especially in the cinema world with their Signature Primes is just outstanding. Still, I personally gravitate towards the Panavision Primos and Cooke S4s as far as what speaks most to me in teams of spherical lenses. I guess that’s why I’m shooting my films on the Veydras. The Sigma 35mm f1.2 would be an incredible lens to put on a S1H and shoot some narrative stuff in really low light wide opened at 4.000 ASA. I guess I’d put on 1/8th Black Pro Mist or maybe even a Black Satin for that.
I just picked up this lens on ebay for $975 in excellent conditions for my S5. What are your thoughts on performance I can expect at the price I paid?
Class leading performance under the right set of circumstances.
This was exactly the video I wanted to see on this lens! Just bought an S1 and it's probably the best camera I've ever used and I've been looking at this lens. It seems to render image quality reminiscent of medium format, and I think it makes a lovely match on the S series beefier bodies. I can only imagine how good an 85 1.2 would be from Sigma. Thank you!
Thomas Gunn Agreed: very much like medium format!
Any experiences yet with M-mount lenses on the SL2?
Alex Reid Enjoy it with our Summicron-M 50.
I have
Your voice like nasruddin shaha .. 👌
-Sir, are you a cat person or a dog person?
Shirt: Both!
My search was over when I found Leica's CL and the 23mm f/2 for my 'street and travel' needs (not a shabby landscape lens either). Never missed full frame. Now looking for wider angle APSC lens options. Not an awful lot to choose from. Always enjoy Your thoughts.
Takuan the Vario 11-23 is exceptional.
@@3BMEP Yep, so they say. I have my finger on the trigger although I am not a fan of zooms in general. Thanks for Your opinion.
@@3BMEP Yep, so they say. I have my finger on the trigger for that one although I am not fan of zooms. Thanks for Your opinion.
Takuan Neither am I. 😊
. . I am hard of hearing
Hi Hugh, I have ordered the Sl-2 with the Sl 35 mm so I don't know how long a wait will be. Not sure if I should go with the Sl-35 mm or a smaller Voigtlander 35 mm 1.2 or Leica M 35 mm 2.0 and Zeiss T 35mm F 2.0. I am not sure which lens you choose for your Sl- 2 as I am hard of hearing. If get a chance to test any lens like these on I would love your thoughts. Thank You Hugh
Summicron-SL 35. Will keep you posted as I continue my journey. Please do the same!
Hugh do you recommend Summicron SL 35mm for video work too? Is it possible to achieve smooth focus pulls with it ? I am looking at getting S1H for video work, and I am looking for the best 35mm I can get for for everyday cary . Please give me some feedback if you can.
ORGANISMX as soon as I get it in, I’ll check it out!
I Thank you in advance , really appreciate that!
Thanks Hugh. Thorough as usual. : ) (Also, feel the Bern!)
So can these be used on Leica CL? I think Leica CL has the same mount as SL
They can!
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions wow I just discovered a new world!
what ND filters do u recommend for L mount? I have sigma 35mm and 85mm
Richard Salazar we like Freewell and Polar Pro.
Thanks Hugh, my Leica M10-P White + 50mm f/1.4 Summilux (limited-edition set of 350 units) is arriving tomorrow. I paid USD $18,300 ($14,500 + tax/customs). The SL2 ($5,995) + Summilux-SL 50mm f/1.4 ASPH ($5,295) = $11,290 i.e. $3200 less compared to the manual Rangefinder M10P (white). However, the regular M10-P ($7,995) + 50 summilux ($4,695) = $12,690 and that too is less than my limited edition, of course. I'm paying a premium of $1800 for the white-colored body & accessories (strap/case etc.), which is neither available in SL series nor M. I went for it only due to my love of white. The modern SL lenses are sharper than old M-lenses (exception: 50 & 90 APO), but user-experience of SL2 is different from shooting a rangefinder ... & AF lenses for SL system are almost close to Sigma 35/1.2 in volume ...so not for me, the size/weight of SL2 itself was a deterrent (much like the Panasonic S1R). The SL2 is a beauty & a beast, a 2-in-1. I will think of it after i have mastered the M first.
I'm a gold trader. Just in case you want to massively gold plate your gear.
Try the 40mm the sharpest on the market
Hi Hugh, great Video - thank for this. Yes this Lens is big - but soooo good. On the S1R Panasonic a Beast. Greet from Berlin - Frank - you have the 16-35 mm 4.0 for the S1R 😢😢😢 i must wait for it 😢😢😢
I bought it here in Germany last week, so it is already available!
I question your ability to crop. Bernie was still in the picture 😀. Seriously, in using Canon’s 35mm 1.4L lens I rarely open it all the way. Much happier with the results at 2.8+. That lens is also an excellent lens.
...and don't forget the Milvus 35...😁
I think, it was 110% speed))
I much doubt the Leica SL2's sensor's colour accuracy when you evaluate lens with this camera. you can see how bad leica's sensor performed in terms of colour accuracy:pdnonline.com/gear/cameras/the-best-cameras-for-color-reproduction-ranked/
just got one of these for 700 bones
Enjoy!