I love the Q, have had mine for several years now. I loved my Nikon S2 (back in the 50's) and the Q makes me feel young again. Love your presentation and I agree that when the Q comes out with interchangeable lens, I'll get one.
What a fresh review, I'll say you are the Leica of reviewers, technical but always at the service of photography. I also like the long format where you take your time and don't want to give too much information too fast.
Your comment at 10:50...Your spot on...That would be very interesting...The Q with a 50mm would be my choice. I did own the Sony RX1r however the user experience was not that great. As I get older for me, it is all about the user experience.
I feel the same. When I was younger, I allways thought: what if I encounter this or that situation? Then I need this or that feature. Ten years later, I did not encounter such situations, or when, I was not able to fiddle my way to the option I needed. I am only a hobbyist and don't have the time know all the menus on my occasional photo walks. But I know what the basic settings are doing, and I want them quick on my hand.
Got the t-shirts Hugh...supporting your channel, wearing your t-shirt proudly with my M240 camera I just picked up...as soon as this covid-19 settles, I will be out and about experiencing the new world through Leica lenses, great content on the Q, that I have as well, the best street photographer shooter...
On the hunt for an X100V or even worse luck an X100VI for a good price and could not bring myself to pull the trigger on either at the over inflated prices they're available. When I found a Q for the same price of what most are selling the fuji V it was a super easy decision to make. Absolutely love my Q, it fits every need and it goes with me everywhere which is exactly what I wanted.
and don't forget about the leaf shutter, both for speedlight photography and for artistic panning. I use the Q both for my portraiture and sometimes in my automotive photography. Great review, let's wait for the new announcement tomorrow and let's keep our finger crossed for new specs!
I have a Q. Love it beyond words! It has the 28mm but also has digital crop of 35 and 50. Sharp focus, beautiful colors, compact, beautiful design, simple to use...it's a Leica! .. .what else do you need!
If I could get a Kodachrome 64 profile for landscapes; a Portra 160 profile for portraiture and a Tri-X profile for street and reportage, I’d be very happy indeed. Love your work.
Leica should be paying you. I wonder how many went and purchased a Q after watching this!? Awesome review. Your style and presentation is excellent. I sold all my Leica M gear a couple of years ago and will be entering the fray again with the Leica Q2. I truly miss the wonderful experience of using a Leica. No other camera I've had compares.
I know I should actually be watching the videos, but I find it so nice to just have you talk in the background! I might have been sold on the Leica life after this...
Outstanding video in every way. I love your idea for an interchangeable lens Q system... that would be ideal. I think Leica would turn a profit releasing Q camera models with 50mm and 90mm fixed lens options in addition to the 28mm original. The market for Leica cameras will always be smaller due to the price point, but I believe their existing loyal customers would be willing to purchase 50 and 90mm Q's versus going all in on a "M" system. Marrying a fixed lens to a sensor to create an ideal image is something Leica mastered with the Q at 28mm. If an interchangeable lens Q system is out of the question (would likely crush their M sales... then again my idea might too), I hope that Leica considers Q50 and Q90 models down the road. Thanks for making such enjoyable and informative content. Best wishes to you and yours.
This video pushed me over the edge. I'm going to offer up my Pentax KP and lenses for trade on a couple forums and see if I get a nibble.... Thanks for the great videos, they are a joy to watch & listen to.....
This makes me laugh! I bought the Leica Q a couple of weekends ago, then searched and searched this channel for a review as I respect your opinion! Was shocked there wasn't one. Top presentation as usual. Hope you get to hang on to the Q a little longer.
Any moment now I am getting one, I am sold, the combo of the lens and the ccd and whatever magick Leica have installed gives the black and white pictures I have seen such a classical Leica look and feel with tone for days. It also looks beautiful, not usually a thing but this time it is a huge thing, I love my x pro2 but darn it this camera, this Leica, is going to let me be one a leica user and two, a shooter that has an incredible amount of power in his hands. Cant wait!!!
I have had the Q since day one and to date, it still my favorite all time, single camera, ever. It is truly a joy to shoot and travel with. Yes, updates would be nice, but how refreshing to have a camera in you bag that still holds it own, doing what it does, producing beautiful images all the time. Love your stuff!!
The Q arrived a few days ago. Still getting acquainted with it - and photography in general for that matter - but definitely satisfied with the purchase. After nearly 50 years of the daily grind in business, I'm a happy camper out on the streets. Headed to NYC the first week in December to catch Arturo Sandoval at the Blue Note. And of course to do some street work. Thanks again for your work here. Your reviews are excellent. @@3BMEP
Leica really does feel like they've been taking something out of the Fuji and Apple playbooks over the last years. Didn't actually know the Q had IS, that really does make it a tasty package - a low profile, EVF equipped, wide angle, beautifully designed and nicely handling, autofocusing pocket camera.. phew. Very curious what could happen if Leica (and Panasonic) embrace the film simulations as you mentioned. It's the perfect feature for an everyday carry shooter, fixed lens in particular (Leica Q, Panasonic LX100 II..) - few things kill the will to shoot more for me than having to zoom in and out, swap glass, and then remember whatever tweaks I'll have to do later in Lightroom to get the look I want. As so often: distance between intent, and execution. Now I'll still take an ILC over a fixed-lens camera most times, but I'm really finding myself trending towards the more set-in-stone shooting style.. ironic as it is, there's something liberating about working with limitations - less headache, less regrets, somewhat.
An interesting take - I just took mine on its 2nd annual trip to Europe and I still love it. I keep looking at all the new stuff that comes out, and I just keep going back to the Q. Killer IQ, and it handles so easily. Nothing has bumped me off it yet. By the way, this is the first vid of yours I watched, and about halfway through I realized you're speaking my "language" - I was like, "this guy's from where I grew up." I know my accent anywhere, lol. Greetings from Media, PA! I'd like to see them make that video button programmable, btw. Anyway, thanks for the vid.
This is the best analysis of the Q I've ever seen. Intelligent, thorough and entertaining all at once. My Q is almost three years old and has never failed to produce images that make me happy. I've had M film and digital cameras for 50 years, but the Q is my daily driver.
You nailed it. Another thing I admire about Leica is it's ballsy thinking: The B&W only Monochrom, the screenless M-10D are examples of breaking a paradigm.
Great review Hugh. I shoot street, used to do it on Fuji, since I own the Q both my Fuji’s stay at home. I agree with your takes, 28mm ends up being perfect because I need to be closer and that helps my work and at that distance a silent camera is paramount, hold that thought ;) Single spot AF is very fast and sharp, and MF (like for a portrait or a challenging light situation) a complete joy I don’t remember since my film days. I love the Q, and your truthful trustworthy and always well said review is the first I’ve seen that truly does it justice. 👏🏻
What camera is the woman at the beginning shooting with. I have an X2 and really is a pleasure to shoot and use, and the colors are popping off the screen. I cant wait to print
I have procrastinated over buying a Q, I have the X2 with EVF. I guess now I will wait for the Q2 but there seems to be no clues anywhere when it will be announced.
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions Well just heard Leica Q2 to be announced in May, I expect it will be +£500 over the Q1 and probably 9 months waiting list so still a purchasing dilemma for me.
Dear Hugh! I have a Q 2 since June and used it a few times. When it comes to Streetphotography or Portraiture I frankly have Problems with the Autofocus, especially with a wide open Aperture. First I tried "Face Detection", which didn't work consistently and in worst Case the Camera operates in "Multifield-Focussing". 1-Field-Metering didn't make the Job either, so I work in most of the Cases with Spot-Focus. What am I doing wrong or have to consider? Thank you for your answer in advance and Best Regards!
Just purchased this camera instead of the q2 after seeing a good price for one used. It’s my first Leica and after shooting with it one day already get the Leica love. Definitely incredible
Above all, a very rare, excellent and soulful delivery! Great review, beautiful lighting and the richest sounding voice! A real pleasure, I thank you! I am curious about your sound set up, during the review. Great work All the best
I got into the fixed-lens one-track-mind when I stepped down from the huge DSLR planet (EOS 7D) to the best camera I've ever had so far (I've never enjoyed taking pics so much): a Fuji x100s. I'm just waiting for a Leica Q-D, i.e. without the video feature (no one, NO ONE takes video with a Leica, as you said) and also without the live view. Just like my M262, a cheaper/easier version of the 240.
I own a q, I bought it for the leaf shutter and the high flash sync. It has also been proven to be a wonderful camera for interiors and architecture. In the studio, when I shoot dance I use it with a fujix100f also. Because it’s all about buffer speed. The q is normally on the tripod and lasts for about a dozen shots before I pick up the Fuji. Then I go back to the q. The image quality from the q is excellent. I use a lens adapter on the Fuji to get tighter shots. It’s a great combo. All I would want for is a slightly faster buffer and maybe a screw on lens which can help me get closer. The battery is ok really. The hardest thing is changing the battery when you have bought the grip. I wish the battery was on the side, as with the cf card. I can almost do everything I need to do with this camera. Almost bought an sl also but it’s not so convincing for a purchase. I rent it instead.
...rumors of an announcement on the horizon (perhaps 10/23...my birthday...coincidental?) -- holding off to see what, if anything, comes of it. Then perhaps, I'll pull the trigger...
🙏🏻😊 We never bought the Q, but we did invest in the CL. It is Claudia’s daily driver with SummiluxTL 35/1.4, SummicronTL 23/2 and occasionally our Sigma DG DN 85/1.4, which we share. 😎🖖🏻
There is only one shot that captures the moment of anticipation in an intimate moment, or in a high-speed action photo. I completely disagree about the 'action' shots. Having shot the Leica M as a pro many years ago in the high-speed arena of moto-cross, I got the yearly double-page action calendar shots and the cover shots of intimate portraits with a single 'click' that only the range-finder could frame. There were always the other pro's cameras with motors whirring away, but being able to frame with the rangefinder and anticipate the elements coming into the frame delivered the shot the magazines published. I only need two lenses : the 28 and a 90. Half way home with the Q it appears.
A fine overview of this most interesting Leica (as used by William Albert Allard no less, together with his M). The thing about Leica is they are designing cameras for photographers, not vloggers or video makers, which allows them to make their designs so 'pure'. Catnip for photographers. I like the Q concept of a non-interchangeable lens, as it sets the boundaries to be worked with. And I do hope that Leica's partner Panasonic (an affair of many years, now public!), take that wonderful image app and 'rebrand' a version as their own Image App.
Q is sublime. I take it every wherever. It's a joy to use. Beautiful. Stealthy. Balance. Build n quality. Occasionally you get stuck if too far from subject as it's just 28. For people as Hew says get in close but for groups it's great. I find myself now disliking my A6xO0 series Sonys, the enjoyment of those is destroyed since I got Q I have to get rid of them and find a new Q partner for the other focal length needs. If someone said, hey its the Q or the Wife ... well, seeya Lady.
Have to tell you my friend, the Fuji XT-3 gives me, in a different way, a big chunk of the emotional connection the Q does. When I carry two cameras it’s these two.
Since years i'm looking for Leica. I do hobby photography, mainly with Sony A7R III. The Sony is awesome, no doubt. But i was still looking for the Leica. I'm not frighten by manual mode or manual focus. I'm a bit frighten by a Messsucher. I'm most frighten by the price. I've seen a lot of youtube videos and some of them called for the Q. But, no. I'm not in 28mm, my beloved lens has 50mm. Fixed lens? Huh?!? Lack of 2/3 of the Sony A7 features? Why. Then I saw your video here. I like your style very much. Like your energy, passion and especially your focus on cameras as a tool to make pictures, instead of a gadget to show off. The 3 years later review breaks my barriers. I picked a Q (Type 116) for 2.000 Euros in cologne. I'm in love. In love with the lens, the 28mm, the shortage of feature. I still like my A7. But when it comes to emotional pictures, street photography, a more personal view to a picture, the Leica Q is the one and only. Sony A7 is perfect for detailed pictures when it comes to composition, experiments, documentation, etc. But when it comes to emotions, nothing beats the haptic and performance of my Q. Thank you for this video. It is the one reason to jump in the cold Leica lake, which comes out as a warm shower of comfort and contentment.
Isnt it amazing to see Leica M and SL etc able to connect seamlessly to Instagram etc - thus delivering the ability for people who like to share immediately whilst at the same being able to maintain a store/edit/PP/publishg workflow for printing....!!
My guess is that Leica use ”human centered design” through user experience design. They start with why, just like Apple and dont worry about what others competitors are doing. Every company can start with asking why, and the cost of UX is probably less then solving problems caused by a lack of UX. Leica puts a lot of production time into creating the highest possible quality, that costs money but it works, they take more risk and have more to gain.
That was nice and true. I have D850 and PhaseOne to work with but my Q. Love it. I cant count all times Ive justed that one instead of the big bulky cameras. 28 1.4 for Nikon is crazy stupid good. And the camera is good but my Q has soul. I dropped from a roof in sweden. Dropped from a motorbike in Africa. I always have it it my pocket on my jacket. Clumsy to get out of there but it is always with me and I love it. I bought it the forst day and I weep a little bit everytime I hear Q2. This is my buddy. Thanks again for a damn good review mate. @jallefotografsweden. Mostly private pics BUT I use it for portraits as well. Haha. Cheers
Loved this review! I don’t have any Leica not I am gonna by any! But I loved your style and presentation. The best most polished review ever! Like someone said, I would pay for English lessons if you teach em 🙂
The GH5 continues to amaze me so much that I still haven't seen other cameras come close to giving the same features. GH5 firmware update coming in a week or so!
still available from third party not official for .raw in lightroom and photoshop, but yes, right now fujifilm is the only in camera jpg that is usable and outstanding.
Another beautiful epic poem to photography Hugh. Love the Q, perhaps the perfect manifestation/evolution of the rangefinder. All of the emotional connection of the M , plus modern amenities. What will happen when they create an interchangeable lens system with the Q body?
Fujifilm is really the only one right now to output great quality JPG straight out from camera. I mean even the M240 Leica JPG are nice but nothing compared to Fuji JPG, you still have to process them in lightroom to give them personality. VSCO has nice film stock that can be applied to leica RAW but having the job done inside the camera from leica is really something im looking for, because now Leica Q vs Fuji X100F I have a hard time to justify the money for the Q.
So perhaps a Panasonic GX8 and the Leica 15mm f1.7 could make a poor mans Leica Q substitute until pocket money is saved? Excellent presentation and very engaging. Great work.
Can anyone tell me if Leica ever fixed the issue with dust getting on the Q’s sensor? I really want to get one but after reading all the forums about it I’m not sure now, so some feedback from anyone who owns this camera would be much appreciated. Thanks 👍
Dust was repeatedly an issue on my Q. Cleaned under warranty. BUT the warranty expires, and the expense and time without the Q makes this a big problem.
I took some gaffer's tape (not duct tape, not electrical tape, but *gaffer's* tape - it's good stuff and not messy) and covered the microphone and speaker holes. I've been knocking my Q around with me every day for two years, and no probs with dust at all. And it's not like I use the video, right? BTW, I didn't tape ever the red dot. I've always thought that was a bit silly, like somehow the street urchins will know not to grab your camera lol
The Q is perfect for press photography. If you have a M with a 50 and 75 mm, the Q is the M's 28 mm. With a Q you'll be dressed always. But I'm still waiting for a sucessor for the long gone Digilux 2...
Great stylish review thank you. About to reward myself for completion of an endeavour. M6 owner, looking at the CL, but the Q has caught my eye...one wait for Q2 will be unbearable...
Dear Hugh! Great Review! Thanks for that! To be honest, I still have a "Problem" and perhaps you can help me. I really want a Leica Q, because I want it! *Full Stop* Had the Q2 in my hands and it was nice. I mainly shoot Street and asked myself, do I need the Sealing and the bigger Sensor with regard to the Price Difference?! How do I want to deal the huge Data, when it comes to Computer-Power and Storage-Capacity?! - When it comes to the Difference between Q and Q-P I see no arguments in terms of technical reasons rather than optical ones. Perhaps you can answer my questions!? Cheers from Germany!
Helmut Minten Well... I’m getting one because it has superior dust sealing, a bigger battery, a much better EVF, and with the additional pixels, the ability to effectively have two focal lengths (28 and 35) with more resolution than the original Q. But the price difference is big, Q-P is beautiful - and probably better in low light.
Helmut Minten It’s not difficult to imagine that high ISO noise would be more of a challenge for twice the resolution at the same sensor size, but the real question is this: is the Q2’s performance still workable at the maximum ISO you personally will need? I’ve never shot in NYC, for example, above 12800. But your mileage may vary.
Interesting talk! I’ve been looking forward to trying the new app (on an M 10 and a Q). It looks like a giant improvement over the old app. Also, I agree that the Q remains a great fixed lens camera. In fact, given how fast most camera models are changing, it says a lot about the original design and engineering behind the Q that it is still relevant. Wouldn’t it be great (for us as buyers) if the photo sensors could be interchanged periodically instead of replacing entire cameras? You certainly didn’t trade in your old F3 HP every other year to take advantage of new film emulsions.
I love your videos, and of course your passion for Leica. There is something more with these master pieces, you just cannot refer to them as gear they are companion. Would you please talk about the famous “Leica look” ? Thanks a lot!
This is the only RUclips review I've watched that works as theater. I love cameras, and performance, so this video is a wonderful treat.
I love the Q, have had mine for several years now. I loved my Nikon S2 (back in the 50's) and the Q makes me feel young again. Love your presentation and I agree that when the Q comes out with interchangeable lens, I'll get one.
What a fresh review, I'll say you are the Leica of reviewers, technical but always at the service of photography. I also like the long format where you take your time and don't want to give too much information too fast.
Your comment at 10:50...Your spot on...That would be very interesting...The Q with a 50mm would be my choice. I did own the Sony RX1r however the user experience was not that great. As I get older for me, it is all about the user experience.
Antony Kyriacou Right there with you!
I feel the same. When I was younger, I allways thought: what if I encounter this or that situation? Then I need this or that feature. Ten years later, I did not encounter such situations, or when, I was not able to fiddle my way to the option I needed. I am only a hobbyist and don't have the time know all the menus on my occasional photo walks. But I know what the basic settings are doing, and I want them quick on my hand.
We must be twins! However, I'm learning to live with a 28. I make it work...
I have to tell you that the 18 minutes passed so fast! The way you talk is fantastic. Thanks for the video!
Dom Bloch 🙏🏻
Jeff Goldblum meets Robert Downey Jr.
throw Jon Stewart into the mix
Are you fucking kidding me I thought the same exact thing! Hugh is the best! Dude should be in Marvel films as some kind of photography superhero.
Spot on
I needed some wind down time after work, so listening to your wonderful calming voice for some calming time.
This made me purchase Q. Waiting impatiently for it to navigate through Covid and year-end delays. Stay safe and happy holidays!
And to you! Enjoy!
Got the t-shirts Hugh...supporting your channel, wearing your t-shirt proudly with my M240 camera I just picked up...as soon as this covid-19 settles, I will be out and about experiencing the new world through Leica lenses, great content on the Q, that I have as well, the best street photographer shooter...
On the hunt for an X100V or even worse luck an X100VI for a good price and could not bring myself to pull the trigger on either at the over inflated prices they're available. When I found a Q for the same price of what most are selling the fuji V it was a super easy decision to make. Absolutely love my Q, it fits every need and it goes with me everywhere which is exactly what I wanted.
Enjoy!
Brilliant review! I have a Q, the best camera I have ever had and will ever want. It is perfection!
🙏🏻😊🖖🏻
Pulled the plug on it after much contemplation, excited to have it in my hands soon. Thanks, Hugh. Great review.
😊🙏🏻🖖🏻
and don't forget about the leaf shutter, both for speedlight photography and for artistic panning. I use the Q both for my portraiture and sometimes in my automotive photography. Great review, let's wait for the new announcement tomorrow and let's keep our finger crossed for new specs!
Yes!
I have a Q. Love it beyond words! It has the 28mm but also has digital crop of 35 and 50. Sharp focus, beautiful colors, compact, beautiful design, simple to use...it's a Leica! ..
.what else do you need!
I absolutely love your casts, I love the way you speak. It’s inspired me to start my own, but I wish I could speak calmly and beautifully as you.
Raoul Bhatt 🙏🏻 “Just do it.” 👌
I own the Leica Q, Leica M10, Leica Monochrom 246 and a Leica M6. And yes I use them all. I do love the Leica Q very much. I subscribed...
If I could get a Kodachrome 64 profile for landscapes; a Portra 160 profile for portraiture and a Tri-X profile for street and reportage, I’d be very happy indeed. Love your work.
gethen YES!!!!! Thanks for joining the conversation.
Re visited this after a year! Still holds true. Desire to own one is ever increasing, so the question is, would you sell your film gear to own one?
I’m willing to sell very little of my remaining film gear to acquire digital, but I AM willing to sell digital gear to acquire other digital gear. 😊🖖🏻
excellent. thanks. I'm anxiously awaiting the delivery of a Q-P. enjoyed your comments.
Love my Q. Still finding surprises. Constantly knocking my socks off.😊
The way you articulate yourself and your speech is so superb, just stumbled upon this video as I’m thinking of getting a q-p and had to sub!
ShotbyFALLACY Welcome!
Leica should be paying you. I wonder how many went and purchased a Q after watching this!? Awesome review. Your style and presentation is excellent. I sold all my Leica M gear a couple of years ago and will be entering the fray again with the Leica Q2. I truly miss the wonderful experience of using a Leica. No other camera I've had compares.
Mike Pratt 🙏🏻😊
I know I should actually be watching the videos, but I find it so nice to just have you talk in the background!
I might have been sold on the Leica life after this...
Jim Tollefson welcome!
Wonderful delivery and lighting within your video. A pleasure to watch!!!
Red Razor999 🙂🙏🏻
Outstanding video in every way. I love your idea for an interchangeable lens Q system... that would be ideal. I think Leica would turn a profit releasing Q camera models with 50mm and 90mm fixed lens options in addition to the 28mm original. The market for Leica cameras will always be smaller due to the price point, but I believe their existing loyal customers would be willing to purchase 50 and 90mm Q's versus going all in on a "M" system. Marrying a fixed lens to a sensor to create an ideal image is something Leica mastered with the Q at 28mm. If an interchangeable lens Q system is out of the question (would likely crush their M sales... then again my idea might too), I hope that Leica considers Q50 and Q90 models down the road. Thanks for making such enjoyable and informative content. Best wishes to you and yours.
Cataniza Thanks so much for your passion, interest and kindness! 🙏🏻😊
This video pushed me over the edge. I'm going to offer up my Pentax KP and lenses for trade on a couple forums and see if I get a nibble....
Thanks for the great videos, they are a joy to watch & listen to.....
🙏🏻😊 Enjoy!
Your subscriber count is extremely low considering the quality content you produce. I find you very knowledgeable and enjoyable to watch.
The Essential Light 🙏🏻
@@3BMEP, just sub'd :).
Ikr
The Essential Light i’d pay this guy just to shut up! Can’t listen to him more than a min. It irritates me Lol
I thought the same, this should be 500K to 2M, this is amazing
This makes me laugh! I bought the Leica Q a couple of weekends ago, then searched and searched this channel for a review as I respect your opinion! Was shocked there wasn't one. Top presentation as usual. Hope you get to hang on to the Q a little longer.
Any moment now I am getting one, I am sold, the combo of the lens and the ccd and whatever magick Leica have installed gives the black and white pictures I have seen such a classical Leica look and feel with tone for days. It also looks beautiful, not usually a thing but this time it is a huge thing, I love my x pro2 but darn it this camera, this Leica, is going to let me be one a leica user and two, a shooter that has an incredible amount of power in his hands. Cant wait!!!
Enjoy!
I have had the Q since day one and to date, it still my favorite all time, single camera, ever. It is truly a joy to shoot and travel with. Yes, updates would be nice, but how refreshing to have a camera in you bag that still holds it own, doing what it does, producing beautiful images all the time. Love your stuff!!
🙏🏻😉
TheIkaika777 I understand. :)
Ordered a Q last week and anxiously waiting to hit the street with it. Once I have some shoot time under my belt, I’ll be back to share thoughts.
Looking forward to it!
The Q arrived a few days ago. Still getting acquainted with it - and photography in general for that matter - but definitely satisfied with the purchase. After nearly 50 years of the daily grind in business, I'm a happy camper out on the streets. Headed to NYC the first week in December to catch Arturo Sandoval at the Blue Note. And of course to do some street work. Thanks again for your work here. Your reviews are excellent. @@3BMEP
Philip Shucet Blue Note! ❤️
Leica really does feel like they've been taking something out of the Fuji and Apple playbooks over the last years.
Didn't actually know the Q had IS, that really does make it a tasty package - a low profile, EVF equipped, wide angle, beautifully designed and nicely handling, autofocusing pocket camera.. phew.
Very curious what could happen if Leica (and Panasonic) embrace the film simulations as you mentioned. It's the perfect feature for an everyday carry shooter, fixed lens in particular (Leica Q, Panasonic LX100 II..) - few things kill the will to shoot more for me than having to zoom in and out, swap glass, and then remember whatever tweaks I'll have to do later in Lightroom to get the look I want.
As so often: distance between intent, and execution.
Now I'll still take an ILC over a fixed-lens camera most times, but I'm really finding myself trending towards the more set-in-stone shooting style.. ironic as it is, there's something liberating about working with limitations - less headache, less regrets, somewhat.
i would only pay 350€ for this camera for the lens, nothing more........
An interesting take - I just took mine on its 2nd annual trip to Europe and I still love it. I keep looking at all the new stuff that comes out, and I just keep going back to the Q. Killer IQ, and it handles so easily. Nothing has bumped me off it yet.
By the way, this is the first vid of yours I watched, and about halfway through I realized you're speaking my "language" - I was like, "this guy's from where I grew up." I know my accent anywhere, lol.
Greetings from Media, PA!
I'd like to see them make that video button programmable, btw.
Anyway, thanks for the vid.
James P Welcome!
I have been resisting getting this for several years; if it had a 35mm lens it would probably be irresistible. Good review; thanks!
You’re welcome. 🙂
it has a 35 digital crop
This is the best analysis of the Q I've ever seen. Intelligent, thorough and entertaining all at once. My Q is almost three years old and has never failed to produce images that make me happy. I've had M film and digital cameras for 50 years, but the Q is my daily driver.
You nailed it. Another thing I admire about Leica is it's ballsy thinking: The B&W only Monochrom, the screenless M-10D are examples of breaking a paradigm.
No offense about your camera career but can you start another RUclips channel just teaching English? I’ll pay for it
You are a master of verbal presentation and delivery of your ideas. Congratulations!!
If you’re serious...
YES! I would too!!!
Sign me up!
I know right. A poet!
Great review Hugh. I shoot street, used to do it on Fuji, since I own the Q both my Fuji’s stay at home. I agree with your takes, 28mm ends up being perfect because I need to be closer and that helps my work and at that distance a silent camera is paramount, hold that thought ;) Single spot AF is very fast and sharp, and MF (like for a portrait or a challenging light situation) a complete joy I don’t remember since my film days.
I love the Q, and your truthful trustworthy and always well said review is the first I’ve seen that truly does it justice. 👏🏻
🙏🏻🖖
What camera is the woman at the beginning shooting with. I have an X2 and really is a pleasure to shoot and use, and the colors are popping off the screen. I cant wait to print
Reuben Zuazua Sony a6300 with Sony FE 28/2.
I have procrastinated over buying a Q, I have the X2 with EVF. I guess now I will wait for the Q2 but there seems to be no clues anywhere when it will be announced.
I understand. I wish I had insight into that, but I don’t.
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions Well just heard Leica Q2 to be announced in May, I expect it will be +£500 over the Q1 and probably 9 months waiting list so still a purchasing dilemma for me.
Dear Hugh! I have a Q 2 since June and used it a few times. When it comes to Streetphotography or Portraiture I frankly have Problems with the Autofocus, especially with a wide open Aperture. First I tried "Face Detection", which didn't work consistently and in worst Case the Camera operates in "Multifield-Focussing". 1-Field-Metering didn't make the Job either, so I work in most of the Cases with Spot-Focus. What am I doing wrong or have to consider? Thank you for your answer in advance and Best Regards!
Helmut Minten I’ve not had AF problems with the Q. Low light? Low contrast?
@@3BMEP Thank you, Hugh! Your fast Answer is highly appreciated. No, most attempts have been in bright Sunlight. I will keep on trying! Cheers! Helmut
Love my Q...tip: turning off auto preview/review mode and shooting RAW (not raw+jpg) files only doubled my battery life...cheers! Ben
Excellent tip! Thanks!
@@3BMEP dont you get really shitty preview images on camera when you shoot only dng?
Added to my bag « M9 and Canon probDSLR » also 3 years ago and now the Q is the one machine I rely on for most of my shootings. Hard to beat.
Just purchased this camera instead of the q2 after seeing a good price for one used. It’s my first Leica and after shooting with it one day already get the Leica love. Definitely incredible
Enjoy!
Above all, a very rare, excellent and soulful delivery!
Great review, beautiful lighting and the richest sounding voice!
A real pleasure, I thank you!
I am curious about your sound set up, during the review.
Great work
All the best
So glad you enjoyed it! We always list our gear in the show notes below our vids - check it out.
Always compelling viewing. Great review of a fantastic camera. Thank you.
🙏🏻😊
Fantastic video. Had the pleasure of meeting you today in Green Park! Look forward to catching up on your videos
Iri Leontis The pleasure was mine!
Which leica m lens has the same image rendering as the leica q,the 28 summicron or elmarit?
Summicron comes closer.
I got into the fixed-lens one-track-mind when I stepped down from the huge DSLR planet (EOS 7D) to the best camera I've ever had so far (I've never enjoyed taking pics so much): a Fuji x100s. I'm just waiting for a Leica Q-D, i.e. without the video feature (no one, NO ONE takes video with a Leica, as you said) and also without the live view. Just like my M262, a cheaper/easier version of the 240.
I do wish Leica would come out with a 50mm lense version of the Q line.
I understand.😉
I own a q, I bought it for the leaf shutter and the high flash sync. It has also been proven to be a wonderful camera for interiors and architecture. In the studio, when I shoot dance I use it with a fujix100f also. Because it’s all about buffer speed. The q is normally on the tripod and lasts for about a dozen shots before I pick up the Fuji. Then I go back to the q. The image quality from the q is excellent. I use a lens adapter on the Fuji to get tighter shots. It’s a great combo. All I would want for is a slightly faster buffer and maybe a screw on lens which can help me get closer. The battery is ok really. The hardest thing is changing the battery when you have bought the grip. I wish the battery was on the side, as with the cf card. I can almost do everything I need to do with this camera. Almost bought an sl also but it’s not so convincing for a purchase. I rent it instead.
Great input - thanks for contributing to the conversation!
....really enjoyed this. Rented the Q and can't seem to get it out of my head.
John Waire I understand. 😉
...rumors of an announcement on the horizon (perhaps 10/23...my birthday...coincidental?) -- holding off to see what, if anything, comes of it. Then perhaps, I'll pull the trigger...
Thanks for the great videos. What do you use more personally your Q or CL best
🙏🏻😊 We never bought the Q, but we did invest in the CL. It is Claudia’s daily driver with SummiluxTL 35/1.4, SummicronTL 23/2 and occasionally our Sigma DG DN 85/1.4, which we share. 😎🖖🏻
I now have a small notebook to make note of all the thoughts I have to hold
thanks so much for your review,i got a Leica Q IN May 2018,still struggled with it,do you provide a special e book training especially for Leica Q?
There is only one shot that captures the moment of anticipation in an intimate moment, or in a high-speed action photo. I completely disagree about the 'action' shots. Having shot the Leica M as a pro many years ago in the high-speed arena of moto-cross, I got the yearly double-page action calendar shots and the cover shots of intimate portraits with a single 'click' that only the range-finder could frame. There were always the other pro's cameras with motors whirring away, but being able to frame with the rangefinder and anticipate the elements coming into the frame delivered the shot the magazines published. I only need two lenses : the 28 and a 90. Half way home with the Q it appears.
Nice review buddy! I do have some lawn bowling gigs coming up…
Next Thursday!!!!
Does the Q still eligible for firmware update, H? Thanks.
Another terrific review! Thoughtful, funny and entertaining! Keep up the GREAT work!!
Keith Davis 🙏🏻
A fine overview of this most interesting Leica (as used by William Albert Allard no less, together with his M).
The thing about Leica is they are designing cameras for photographers, not vloggers or video makers, which allows them to make their designs so 'pure'. Catnip for photographers.
I like the Q concept of a non-interchangeable lens, as it sets the boundaries to be worked with.
And I do hope that Leica's partner Panasonic (an affair of many years, now public!), take that wonderful image app and 'rebrand' a version as their own Image App.
Terrific video. Helped convince me that the Q-P was right for me. Thanks!
I have no idea how many times I've watched this video, find myself lusting after the Q. It's a sickness....
are you reviewing or you are performing?
I’m sharing.
What the music around 5'?
Q is sublime. I take it every wherever. It's a joy to use. Beautiful. Stealthy. Balance. Build n quality. Occasionally you get stuck if too far from subject as it's just 28. For people as Hew says get in close but for groups it's great. I find myself now disliking my A6xO0 series Sonys, the enjoyment of those is destroyed since I got Q I have to get rid of them and find a new Q partner for the other focal length needs. If someone said, hey its the Q or the Wife ... well, seeya Lady.
Paul Bentley I get it. :)
Have to tell you my friend, the Fuji XT-3 gives me, in a different way, a big chunk of the emotional connection the Q does. When I carry two cameras it’s these two.
Jeff J I understand. Final X-T3 review coming shortly. 🙂
The Q is also possibly the only rangefinder style camera on the market that is FF and has autofocus
sony rx1r mark ii!
Since years i'm looking for Leica. I do hobby photography, mainly with Sony A7R III. The Sony is awesome, no doubt. But i was still looking for the Leica. I'm not frighten by manual mode or manual focus. I'm a bit frighten by a Messsucher. I'm most frighten by the price. I've seen a lot of youtube videos and some of them called for the Q. But, no. I'm not in 28mm, my beloved lens has 50mm. Fixed lens? Huh?!? Lack of 2/3 of the Sony A7 features? Why.
Then I saw your video here. I like your style very much. Like your energy, passion and especially your focus on cameras as a tool to make pictures, instead of a gadget to show off. The 3 years later review breaks my barriers. I picked a Q (Type 116) for 2.000 Euros in cologne. I'm in love. In love with the lens, the 28mm, the shortage of feature. I still like my A7. But when it comes to emotional pictures, street photography, a more personal view to a picture, the Leica Q is the one and only. Sony A7 is perfect for detailed pictures when it comes to composition, experiments, documentation, etc. But when it comes to emotions, nothing beats the haptic and performance of my Q.
Thank you for this video. It is the one reason to jump in the cold Leica lake, which comes out as a warm shower of comfort and contentment.
Thank you for sharing such a lovely story. Enjoy!😊
Check, check, check, check, check All about this is amazing. Thank you, Hugh!
I have a question I do street fashion on Instagram. Should I get Sony Zeiss 50mm 1.4 or new Sony 24mm 1.4 GM
Isnt it amazing to see Leica M and SL etc able to connect seamlessly to Instagram etc - thus delivering the ability for people who like to share immediately whilst at the same being able to maintain a store/edit/PP/publishg workflow for printing....!!
Yes!
You remind me of my favorite economic philosophy & strategic teacher
My guess is that Leica use ”human centered design” through user experience design. They start with why, just like Apple and dont worry about what others competitors are doing. Every company can start with asking why, and the cost of UX is probably less then solving problems caused by a lack of UX. Leica puts a lot of production time into creating the highest possible quality, that costs money but it works, they take more risk and have more to gain.
You are a born actor !
the leica Q is a beast and i wish i would have one
great review!
thanks for sharing this with us!
loved watching this!
🙏🏻
Shout-out to Adam Marelli modelling for you. Such deep thought. Much wow.
Great light in his studio!
That was nice and true. I have D850 and PhaseOne to work with but my Q. Love it. I cant count all times Ive justed that one instead of the big bulky cameras. 28 1.4 for Nikon is crazy stupid good. And the camera is good but my Q has soul. I dropped from a roof in sweden. Dropped from a motorbike in Africa. I always have it it my pocket on my jacket. Clumsy to get out of there but it is always with me and I love it. I bought it the forst day and I weep a little bit everytime I hear Q2. This is my buddy.
Thanks again for a damn good review mate. @jallefotografsweden. Mostly private pics BUT I use it for portraits as well. Haha. Cheers
What a lovely contribution to our conversation - thank you!
Loved this review! I don’t have any Leica not I am gonna by any! But I loved your style and presentation. The best most polished review ever! Like someone said, I would pay for English lessons if you teach em 🙂
AlteredStar Studios 🙏🏻
The GH5 continues to amaze me so much that I still haven't seen other cameras come close to giving the same features. GH5 firmware update coming in a week or so!
Ooof, those licensed film stock presets are a great idea.
still available from third party not official for .raw in lightroom and photoshop, but yes, right now fujifilm is the only in camera jpg that is usable and outstanding.
Another beautiful epic poem to photography Hugh. Love the Q, perhaps the perfect manifestation/evolution of the rangefinder. All of the emotional connection of the M , plus modern amenities.
What will happen when they create an interchangeable lens system with the Q body?
I’d love to find out!
I love mine but would love the Q2 to look like the leica 10 with iso dial and a rangefinder eye peace and evf
Fujifilm is really the only one right now to output great quality JPG straight out from camera. I mean even the M240 Leica JPG are nice but nothing compared to Fuji JPG, you still have to process them in lightroom to give them personality. VSCO has nice film stock that can be applied to leica RAW but having the job done inside the camera from leica is really something im looking for, because now Leica Q vs Fuji X100F I have a hard time to justify the money for the Q.
Thanks for contributing to the conversation!
So perhaps a Panasonic GX8 and the Leica 15mm f1.7 could make a poor mans Leica Q substitute until pocket money is saved? Excellent presentation and very engaging. Great work.
Absolutely!
Wonderful review
🙏🏻😊🖖🏻
Can anyone tell me if Leica ever fixed the issue with dust getting on the Q’s sensor? I really want to get one but after reading all the forums about it I’m not sure now, so some feedback from anyone who owns this camera would be much appreciated. Thanks 👍
In fact, there was dust in the original eval unit that I chalked up to hard use, and it was returned dust free. Didn't know this was a common issue!
Not on mine, works perfectly.
Dust was repeatedly an issue on my Q. Cleaned under warranty. BUT the warranty expires, and the expense and time without the Q makes this a big problem.
I took some gaffer's tape (not duct tape, not electrical tape, but *gaffer's* tape - it's good stuff and not messy) and covered the microphone and speaker holes. I've been knocking my Q around with me every day for two years, and no probs with dust at all. And it's not like I use the video, right?
BTW, I didn't tape ever the red dot. I've always thought that was a bit silly, like somehow the street urchins will know not to grab your camera lol
The Q is perfect for press photography. If you have a M with a 50 and 75 mm, the Q is the M's 28 mm. With a Q you'll be dressed always. But I'm still waiting for a sucessor for the long gone Digilux 2...
Great stylish review thank you. About to reward myself for completion of an endeavour. M6 owner, looking at the CL, but the Q has caught my eye...one wait for Q2 will be unbearable...
But you could use your M glass in the CL...
i was happy looking at the title said leica q3.
Dear Hugh! Great Review! Thanks for that! To be honest, I still have a "Problem" and perhaps you can help me. I really want a Leica Q, because I want it! *Full Stop* Had the Q2 in my hands and it was nice. I mainly shoot Street and asked myself, do I need the Sealing and the bigger Sensor with regard to the Price Difference?! How do I want to deal the huge Data, when it comes to Computer-Power and Storage-Capacity?! - When it comes to the Difference between Q and Q-P I see no arguments in terms of technical reasons rather than optical ones. Perhaps you can answer my questions!? Cheers from Germany!
Okay, Hugh! Hold that Thought! ;) - What about the rumors of the "bad" ISO-Performance of the Q2!? - AND When do you and your wife come to Germany?
Helmut Minten Well... I’m getting one because it has superior dust sealing, a bigger battery, a much better EVF, and with the additional pixels, the ability to effectively have two focal lengths (28 and 35) with more resolution than the original Q. But the price difference is big, Q-P is beautiful - and probably better in low light.
Helmut Minten It’s not difficult to imagine that high ISO noise would be more of a challenge for twice the resolution at the same sensor size, but the real question is this: is the Q2’s performance still workable at the maximum ISO you personally will need? I’ve never shot in NYC, for example, above 12800. But your mileage may vary.
Interesting talk! I’ve been looking forward to trying the new app (on an M 10 and a Q). It looks like a giant improvement over the old app. Also, I agree that the Q remains a great fixed lens camera. In fact, given how fast most camera models are changing, it says a lot about the original design and engineering behind the Q that it is still relevant. Wouldn’t it be great (for us as buyers) if the photo sensors could be interchanged periodically instead of replacing entire cameras? You certainly didn’t trade in your old F3 HP every other year to take advantage of new film emulsions.
YES!
I love this idea. Like CPU/GPU modding a gaming rig. I can see an entire industry made up of exchanging camera internals.
Jeff J of course, this is what medium format modularity is all about.
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions yes, but for a different niche of the photographic world, me thinks
Leica Q or X100F? Please Suggest
Q, no doubt.
X100F, better JPG, 35mm FF equivalent with the option to get a 28mm FOV adaptor, cost around 3x to 5x less if you consider the used market.
Q2 seems like a wonderful performer
It is!
I love your videos, and of course your passion for Leica. There is something more with these master pieces, you just cannot refer to them as gear they are companion. Would you please talk about the famous “Leica look” ? Thanks a lot!
man! I really liked this video! and this guys too! well done!
I’m just about to buy my second. The perfect camera.
If it’s your perfect camera why do you need 2, isn’t 1 enough?
Now I'm on the hunt for one :)
Wish the sensor and processor is better, but keeping the menu system.
I'm thinking about getting one of those "hold that thought" t-shirt haha
Unbelievable how the time just went...amazing production
🙏🏻😊
Love mine so much, my only camera for now.
Hard to find a Photographer with 1 camera
2021 October: really enjoyed this review✅ wish I had grabbed a cup of coffee also.