LEICA SL2-S - The Review, Buyer's Guide | Should you buy it?
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Should you buy the Leica SL2-S? In this video, we look at my first impressions of the Leica SL2-S to help you decide if the camera is worth buying. Whether you are an experienced M shooter or a first time Leica buyer, this video has got you covered.
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00:00 - Intro and how we are gonna break it down
01:56 - What does the Leica SL2-S feel like?
04:03 - Leica SL2-S Build Quality, Functions & Aesthetics
05:55 - What does the Leica SL2-S shoot like and that gorgeous EyeRes EVF
08:08 - In Body Image Stabilisation BABY!
09:18 - Battery life, display & EVF
10:28 - Leica SL2-S buttons & UX and the Leica philosophy on the SL2-S
12:30 - Gripes and improvement areas
13:18 - What are the photos like?
14:24 - Example photos
21:49 - Should you buy the Leica SL2-S
22:45 - Should you complement your M setup with the Leica SL2-S?
23:04 - Should you replace your M camera with the Leica SL2-S?
24:07 - Should the Leica SL2-S be your first Leica?
25:16 - New or used?
26:27 - Not quite ASMR but some Leica clicks
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This is the best RUclips review I've seen on Leica, but also, frankly, any camera. You have a gift for communicating all the information so effectively and understandably. Many thanks.
Hi Jack, that's very nice of you to say. I really appreciate it and I am glad you enjoyed the video. 🙂
Absolutely gorgeous images with your presets. They ROCK!
Thank you Bah!!! 🙂 I appreciate it very much!!
I don’t usually comment on videos, but I enjoy watching your SL2 video.
I’ve been Leica shooter for a while, and totally understand your enthusiasm.
Cheers
Hello good sir. Thank you in that case for leaving a comment. It's funny. Some people knock Leica for a various number of reasons... I find that everything about the cameras Leica produce is there to help you make the best possible photo.
I bought the SL2-S around Christmas time and absolutely love it. This review is spot on in terms of how this camera will impact you.
Still enjoying the SL2-S? Thanks for the comment John. 🙂
Wow, one of the most entertaining gear reviews I’ve ever seen! Very enthusiastic but still right on the facts and right on the emotional aspects of our relations to the tools we use.
Thank you mate. I appreciate it.
Dude this is the beste Leica SL2s Video! Watched it twice already. Just ordered the cam after testing it. Keep going with these videos. Your clearly one hell of a photographer
Hi Damir, thank you very much for the compliment. I really appreciate it. How are you liking your SL2-S?
Very nice job on the review, Oli. I really appreciate the in-depth information, including both pros & cons of the SL2-s . Thank you.
I'm glad you enjoyed it Jeffrey. 👍 Do you already own the camera or thinking of buying still?
Commented a few days ago, but must reiterate: You are an awesome reviewer, teacher, critic and aficionado. How rare is that combo!? Very rare.
That is very nice of you to say.
Brilliant video. No BS proper review-well done!
Thanks Francis. Glad you enjoyed it.
Oh Oli you are going to grow fast and steady and I will be here to watch you rise… ✌🏼😎
That's very nice of you to say - we shall see. With the multiple themes I want to cover on this channel: (photography, filmmaking & self development) I am not sure how the algorithm will cope with finding the right target audience. What are the different topics you generally watch on RUclips?
Great video! I 100% agree! The SL system is the very best system I have used ever. I have the SL2 and also the M10 Monochrom. Such a joy to use and as you love my M glass on the SL2, I have the 28 Lux, 50 Summicron and a vintage 35 Summaron.
I also purchased the 24-90mm leica and the new 50 Summicron SL (non APO). love em all for different purposes.
This video is so good! I could listen to you talk for days... just picked up this camera today and am loving it so far
Very nice of you to say. 🙂 What kind of photography do you shoot?
@@oliscurra it’s the truth! I do fashion and weddings 😌
@@guicbenites I just found your IG. You have a very sleek aesthetics to your photos. 🙂
Great review man. Eyeing the SL2-S for my birthday in April, and this pushed me more towards Leica.
It’s a super cool camera. What’s your current one?
Great video; great review. Looking forward to more.
Thanks Michael. I appreciate it.
Great video. I love your enthousiasm for great photography. I’m using M cameras for personal work for ages, but for my professional work I’ve been around the block: Canon, Sony, Fujifilm and Nikon. Two years ago, I picked up a pre-owned SL2 and once Profoto and Capture One launched their Leica support, I’ve used the SL2 almost exclusively. I bought a second one (you always need two) and since a few months also an SL2-S. I love that camera. The low-light performance is insane and the DNG files are so easy to edit (same goes for the SL2 files). The UX is easily the best in the industry, albeit next to Hasselblad. The APO-SL lenses are expensive, but also the best I’ve ever used. However, my favorite is the 50mm Summilux-M. The same gorgeous rendering as on my M10-R, but now with easy focus peaking. By the way, don’t count out the Sigma DG DN and Lumix S lenses. They work flawlessly on every SL.
What?? Two sec exposure and what a beauty!! F... me! Great job dude!
Great video as always mate. I've been shooting some pan-f since I saw your photos with it. Cheers, C
Thanks man. I appreciate it. And how are you finding it, especially compared to the HP5 plus you usually shoot?
I will receive my SLS2-S tomorrow. Your excellent presentation is getting me very impatient ...
That’s awesome 👏🏾- I’d love to hear what you think of it and if you’ve got any questions then hit me up here or on twitter. 👍🏾
Ace review! Really enjoyed your delivery, honestly and layout. Your chat about the primo glass in the viewfinder might be my way into a mirrorless, I haven't yet converted from my Nikon d800 because I loth that screen mediation with me and the world and need to learn more about compatibility with my lenses. This speaks to me too as a photographer moving into more video work - yep, this would be my first Leica. Thanks a bunch - I'm heading to the Leica store tomorrow. Cheers!
Hi Devika. I hear ya about the "screen boundary" between you and the real world. There are pros and cons to that story I guess. Are you still rocking your Nikon or did you end up making the switch?
First time in your channel and thanks for this quick review. I bought one today and will note your comments when I try it out this weekend.
Thanks for letting me know. I’m glad you liked it. Keep an eye out this weekend. I’m dropping another video about this camera then. 🙂
What glass are you shooting on it?
@@oliscurra hi I’m using the Vario Elmarit 1:2.8/24-70 ASPH that was offered as bundle by our local Leica retailers. While the lens is tank-heavy, I’m actually enjoying shooting with it. I may plan to get an M adapter soon so that I can try out my other M10 lenses. Thanks for replying! You’re the best!
@@harg8939 I am definitely looking forward to checking out some of those tank heavy lenses at one point. 🙂 I’d love to see some of your work. Let me know where I can find you.
Incredible camera, I love it
I’m still really enjoying the original SL. With all the available adapters I can still play with my old Nikkor lens, etc. Awesome image quality and great design.
Yes it's also a fantastic camera!
Excellent review! You deserve more subscribers.
Thanks Ong. I appreciate it. What is it that you liked about the review if I may ask?
@@oliscurra For one, that you highlighted the us of m mount lenses with the SL2-S. Cheers, OX
@@ongxa9346 cheers Ox.
Thank you for sharing, it is very useful for me, then I will buy a Leica SL2-S.
Excellent presentation. Thank you.
I'm glad you liked it Thomas. I've got another video on the SL2-S regarding black and white JPEGs as well as some of the flexibility of the RAWs at the end. 🙂
One of the best reviews of the Leica SL2-S!
Thank you Jonathan. It’s appreciated. What is it that you liked? It will help me for my future reviews. Cheers 👍
@@oliscurra It sounds like we're having a conversation and you're answering all the questions I have in my head. A lot of other reviewers sound less conversational, especially in their tone and voice fluctuations, and less natural. Also, the humor and amazing photos are the sprinkles on top.
thanks for great explanation, Im Nikon user but recently got SL2-S just because of feeling and image quality specially with 90mm f.2, WOW its the best portrait lens I had ever experienced. thanks again.
I've never shot the 90mm f2 but I imagine it must be gorgeous. Is it more of a modern or classic rendering? Do you know?
@@oliscurra it's kind of Leica image feeling with modern taste, hard to describe but it's really lovely, try it and tell how you found it to be like
Hello from London, England and love your review of the Leica SL-2S... I've just subscried to your channel..!
That's fantastic Alfred. I am glad you did. What camera do you shoot?
PS Check out my video about Black & White JPEGs being the future of Photography. Waaaay better photos from the SL2-S there... 🙂
Thank you so much sharing your thoughts I’m trying to find out more owner experience and this one is really good brother. I own a Leica QP and I want to switch my Sony gear to the Leica sl2s. I have shot with the 601 first generation and I loved it. Hope next year is going to be in my hands. Cheers
Thank Ramon. Are you still planning on switching?
Underrated channel, this was an amazing review. I’m selling all of my sony gear to get the sl2s + the 24-70
Thank you very much. 🙂 DId you end up doing the switch?
@@oliscurra i did, and i am very happy with my decision!
i rented the sl2s for a weekend and as soon as i picked it up it blew me away. something just felt right. and with the summilux 50 pre-asph…. just perfect. so in summary, got a used one and cannot wait for the zuiko om adapter.
ps: M7 forever and ever though. 🖤
Nice one! 🤙🏾 The SL2-S is just a kick ass camera. You're rockin' the M7 too?
Good job, man!
Having Sonys, Fujis, Ricohs blablabla the UX on my Q is still the best. The Sl2 S will be after that video my next camera. I do not believe that we will see a flip screen on any leicas soon. Only have to work on convincing my wife on spending 5000€ again. Maybe with a Wetzlar Trip in 2022? Great Video by the way
I sold all my sony gear for the SL2 and havent regretted it for a moment, im also done with rangefinders, the SL primes are incredible. The only thing with M glass is youre missing the joy of AF
I hear you about auto focus. There are times, when I also miss it. Having said that - I love the size of the M lenses. I guess we can't have it all. 🙂
Excellent review! Now, what I would like to see is a comparison between the Leica SL-2S and the Lumix S-1.
I really Enjoy Your Review and Hope you will Go on
I appreciate it Mathias. I personally think my "Black & White JPEGs being the future of Photography" has waaaay better photos from the SL2-S there... 🙂 Check it out.
Nice review ... Just an SL2S ,CL and three film M`s .Been at this on and off for 60 years but pretty much every day for the last 23 .The S is one of the nicest bodies .Just wish the AF was a little better for my purposes .
Great video!
Thank you David. I appreciate that you liked it. 🙂
For me, this is the best review on this camera till now. I just got a mine two weeks ago and I love it. Bought a sigma 24-70 for it as addition to my m glass as I knew this lens from my Sony a7r iv before and I like it on this camera even more. I use my phone as flip screen as the leica app is great. The only think they could improve on it, is the connection speed to the camera. I use the multi shot mode for still live photography, product photography and for documenting paintings. That is the only thing where I need that kind of resolution. 62mp all time long on the Sony was an overkill for me, as you were not able to shoot smaller raws on it, but maybe they fixed it meanwhile?!
Hi Caroslav, thank you very much for the kind words. Interesting the way you use the phone as a flip screen. I might give that a try. Is this your first Leica camera or did you own others?
I owned the M240 long time ago, but newer got comfortable with the rangefinder way to shoot, as I missed too many shots when photographing my son playing. May be my mistake, but as I said, I am not a rangefinder guy. But I kept my 50mm Summicron from that time and now I can use it on a Leica again :)
Love the pictures, great job
Thank you Artur. 🙂 Are you in the market for the SL2-S?
Actually its my main camera.
Cool. I’d love to see your work if you’re online somewhere. 🙂
Great review. I’ve an original SL and would recommend the Voigtlander 40mm F1.2 VM as a good match for the camera.
I love the voigtlander lenses. Probably some of the most underrated M mount lenses come from them. Will definitely give it a try if I get the chance. Have you got a place online where I can check out some shots of that combo (SL + Vgt 40)?
You can zoom in with the button in the right settings. You can also make the shutter even quieter I believe.
Not sure how to make the shutter more quiet without switching to the electronic shutter.
Love the images, you're really good.
That's very kind of you to say. Check out my video about Black & White JPEGs being the future of Photography. Waaaay better photos from the SL2-S there... 🙂
@@oliscurra No worries and will do.
Great review. Thanks.
You are welcome. 🙂
Great in depth video. I just replaced my M10-R with an M10 Monochrom and decided to go with the SL2-S for my color/video needs. So far, love this camera.
Thanks Alex. Tell me about the M10 monochrom. Do you shoot it primarily in dng or jpg? It’s an area of Leica I do not know much about.
@@oliscurra I shoot in DNG. The Monochrom profile in Adobe Lightroom is great. Tons of latitude in tones. I just got it last week so I can’t say a whole lot other then the low light performance is incredible. The dynamic rage is really good too. As far as digital Ms go, it just made more sense to go all in since I found myself converting to B&W like 90% of the time. I think once I start printing from these files the advantages will become more apparent. If you’re just shooting for web use, and you don’t shoot a lot of B&W, I think you wouldn’t really see much difference.
@@AlexCaesar I’d love to see some of your work. Where can I find you online?
Alex, I own the M10 M as well, and I am considering the SL2-S as an alternative to the M11. But I previously owned the SL2 and I absolutely hated the IQ when compared to my M experience. Don’t know your experience with the SL2 but to your eyes and experience does the SL2-S stand up well to the IQ of you M10 M? Thank you,
Excellent. Thank you.
It’s my pleasure Carla. 🙂
Oli, you have know idea how timely your video is. I have enjoyed your reviews for a while now. I’ve got a great option for a LN/Mint condition SL2-S from a authorized Leica dealer. I’m considering it for a color capable alternative to the M11. I own the M10 M and I love M! But I think about the future (I’m a retired military Chaplain). I also think about the IBS and the high end EVF. For right now - like you - I’d still use my M glass. Your review and comments on IQ has put me ease. Thank you,
Hi Chaps, of course I remember our exchanges in the comments section of my previous videos. The one thing to consider with the SL is simply the weight. It has a lot more heft than the M's. Because I strictly use M glass however it is negligible for me and to be perfectly honest. I wouldn't go back anymore. For more of what the camera is capable of, check out my video titled: "LEICA SL2-S BLACK & WHITE JPEG better than RAW?". Lots of BW & colour photos taken on a trip to Greece. Hands down best digital black and white JPEGs I've ever had straight out of camera. Cheers and God Bless. 🙋🏽♂️
@@oliscurra you’re awesome. Thank you once again for taking time to share your thoughts, knowledge, and expertise. Much appreciated. Continued happiness and success to you and yours. Be Blessed, Peace!
Finally an in-depth video about the SL-2s 🙌🏻. I shoot with the Leica M10-p on my RUclips channel and tried one out for video (could not test the M lenses unfortunately). Thinking about selling my Fuji gear and take the leap to full Leica 🙈
I appreciate the comment Bernd. Actually when decided whether to purchase the camera or not, I didn't find too much on the web, which is why I put this together. So you'd use the SL2-S instead of your Fuji to film yourself shooting with the M10-P? Nice video's by the way. 🙂
@@oliscurra yep, that’s pretty much the idea. I also like being able to use the M lenses on both body types (cuts down on kit size and cost).
But for video, it would be awesome if you could share your view on the autofocus in a couple of real life scenarios (talking head with a busy background, to make sure it does not start hunting, …). Thanks for checking out a couple of videos ✌🏻, always nice to connect with leica-minded people 😉
@@berndvandecruys I must be honest - I’ve got the a7siii for these RUclips videos I do. I feel like autofocus-wise it’s probably the current king. Maybe canon and their tech is also up there. I feel like Leica won’t be class leading here at all. I do like the ability to switch from photography to video so quickly without having to carry two cameras though. We shall see. And I Leica what you did there. 🙂. If you’re berndvdc, then I found you on Instagram. Would be cool to keep in touch.
@@oliscurra I think you’re right, Sony and Canon are 👑 when it comes to autofocus. So you have a benchmark to compare the SL2-s to 🙈. The hybrid camera that can handle M glass as well is the biggest draw for me.
That’s the one indeed on IG 😁. I will definitely keep following your RUclips channel for more photography and Leica gear content. Keep in touch ✌🏻
Amazing review
Thank you very much Logan. I appreciate it. 🙂
...never a review(er) had that impact on me 😉 'so; what you goanna do'...just buy one! Thank you for the hole in my budget and nice weekend!!!!
Thank you for the kind words Erwin. I really appreciate it. 🙂
Definitely check out my "Leica SL2-S - Black & White JPEGs: The Future of Photography? | Watch Before You Buy" video. You will see even more photos and what this camera is capable of in terms of black and white JPEGs and what it can do with Raw files at the end.
What do you mainly shoot?
@@oliscurra Than you for your feedback!!! I just checked all your videos, the are funny, fast but not too fast and I learned a lot :-) after a break from 25 years i'am back in to photography! And, now I am shooting with a Leica MP but de digital M don't work for me, a few decennia ago the M4P and M6 worked perfect 😇now I shoot with the Z6ii, with Leica m lenses, for the price an incredible camera but the EVF is disappointing! My Hasselblad SWM/M is still my best friend and probably soon very soon the Leica SL2s! Nice weekend, Erwin
Great video. 👍🏾
Thank you. 🙂
Not really I imagine myself bying a Leica not-M mirrorless, but I like your edits. Nice touch with that bit of grain.
Thanks man I appreciate it. The SL2-S caught me by surprise to be honest. It's way more fun than I thought it would be.
The U/X on this camera is a delight. It is much simpler to use than just about any other camera out there. When you reference the SL2 as having a GPS, it does not have it either. The original SL has a GPS. The quality of the display is very good. When the shuttler button is partially depressed, there is a bit of noise introduced in the viewfinder but it is very slight.
Thank you for the correction around the GPS. Yeah, the UX is great. What’s your experience like with the other SL’s. It seems the SL2-S is not your first.
@@oliscurra I am relatively new to both the SL2 and the SL2-S. I have both and I like each one albeit for different purposes. For landscape and relatively static images, the SL2 is good, and preferably subjects in good light. The SL2 also offers a lot of latitude if I have to crop as the files are huge. The SL2-S is better for moving subjects, night time or other low light situations, and it would be my choice for travel once I can get out again. File size is more manageable too as one might expect. I think both would work for street photography. You might want to check out the review of the SL2-S done by Steve Huff. He favours the SL2-S over the SL2. Many do think it is a better overall choice although I would be hard pressed to choose one over the other.
I have never used M lenses but I am very impressed with the results from the Leica Vario Elmarit SL 24-90 and the SL 90-280. I plan to pick up a few primes and the VE 16-35 for landscapes. I also have a Leica Q2M, which I bought on a whim, and I like it.
There is also a photographer working out of Zurich with the RUclips channel named Math Photographer. He has thoroughly tested both cameras I believe as well as an assortment of SL lenses.
Yeah I've seen Mattphotographer. In fact gave him a few shout outs in my Leica M10-P video.
In some senses the 50MP would be cool. 1. Pixel peeping. 🙂 2. Cropping latitude. However I appreciate the smaller file sizes of the 24MP sensor. And you can split that into two: editing time & storage impact. Also it will invariably perform better at high ISO. I'd love to see some of your work, especially the Q2M. Where can I find you?
And.......Subscribed. and I just might tell my peeps. keep on it homie.
AND I JUST BOUGHT ONE............................... CANON EOS R5 FOR SALE.
@@jailbreakoverlander Thank you very much for the comment. And? What are your thoughts? Impressed or let down?
@@oliscurra The build and fell is amazing slowly( 2 days) learning how to use this its quite a bit different from the eos R5 and 6 but Ill get there. your video got me. well done.
@@jailbreakoverlander Yeah I hear ya. I started out with Canon's way back when and Leica is a different world. Gotta say, the transition from R5 to SL2-S should be easier than from say the 5D3 or 5D4 to an M.
What do you shoot mainly?
@@oliscurra I shoot a lot of video, as my channel shows. I bought the leica simply because of your video description A slab not plastic like eos R5 which is no cheap camera. Lol
Great video. Look forward to seeing more from you on the video side with this camera.
Without a doubt Ed. It’s the main reason I decided for SL system. For photography I felt I had enough of an impression of the camera to make a statement on it. I didn’t want to rush video though. That’s a different beast and I need to get my head around it. 🙂 What do you shoot?
@@oliscurra thanks, Olivier. I have an SL2-S but also shoot some Canon and Sony. Right now I’m still not as in love with video on the SL2-S as I’d like to be. Can’t put my finger on it yet, but something about Color grading in post from it isn’t quite right vs. the other camera systems I’m more used to.
@@edhughes8893 I will look out for that. Back in Jan when I first tested the camera, I shot my whole M10-P video with the SL2-S, but wasn’t happy with some bits. One thing I did notice is that the skin tones were a tad “vampire-y” and too contrasty.
I didn’t have enough time though.
I assume you shoot log.
@@oliscurra yep, I shoot log. Maybe I’m just not yet used to Leica’s version of log. Will persevere though.
@@edhughes8893 The SL2-S colour space is Rec 2020. Set up your NLE in that colour space and use L-Log or HLG. The Leica LUT for Rec 2020 works well too when put at the end of your colour correction chain. In regular Rec 709 Colour in L-Log is off, particularly on skin tone and sky.
Though I am shooting on the SL2, I’d like to add that the impeccable quality of R series lenses is also very impressive.
I hear ya McCall. I recently bought the Leica R 28mm 2.8. It's got lovely optics, but I've not shot enough with it yet. The jury is still out for me. Which R lenses are you shooting with?
@@oliscurra I am shooting with the:
90mm f2.0
135mm f2.8
75-200 f4.5
35mm f4.0 Schneider for R
28-70mm f3.5-4.5
and looking to add more.
All of them are STUNNING - even the zooms. The image fidelity is the best of any lenses I have ever used. Sharpness and micro contrast are without question. The coatings make the lenses almost impervious to highlight blowouts when exposed properly in the first place. I also shoot with Hasselblad (Zeiss) and Mamiya Medium format lenses and Schneider vintage and a few German lenses. All of these have their strengths and are all excellent lenses but NONE of them bears any off the Leica Rs. I started buying the Rs to use on my Nikon D800 and was astonished at the scale of the image improvement. An opportunity came up to acquire an SL2 for an upcoming project and I jumped on it. Which boosted image quality and other capabilities (4k video for example) that much more. I cannot say enough about the Leica system. BUT I will also add: I have come to appreciate the excellent quality of all my other gear after extensive testing. But there is a clear reason why LEICA reigns supreme. Happy shooting and experimenting with your 28mm!!
@@oliscurra Oh...and a little dirty secret I discovered: I have been in conversations with Leica specialist repair shops and other experienced Leica shooters and the quiet secret is that R series lenses are actually on par with and to some people better than M series lenses. I was very surprised to hear that when they started telling me this. But I personally have no basis for comparison. I can say the only thing better than the standard R series is teh APO line of R and M lenses but those are better as a product of newer designs and engineering
When looking for a new camera a while ago, I tried all of the good stuff. Including this SL2-S, and it's sister: the Lumix S1. I had a DSLR before, so I don't care about weight that much. I fully agree with your review: this SL2-S is by far the best handling of every other camera out there.
At a photography fair, I got the chance to try this SL2-S. I felt right at home with the controls. The simplicity of it all, that is what makes this camera great. Why did I buy the S1 instead? Because it also handles well (although by far not as well as this Leica), it costs half the price, has more video options, and most of all, it has an articulating display. Maybe, when an even better SL3 comes out, or when the SL2-S becomes cheaper second-hand, I will buy one. All my L mount glass (which is also really good) will fit and work out of the box on a Leica SL.
The S1 is also an awesome camera, but the sensor is not the same as the SL2-S. The latter has a BSI-sensor with even better low-light capabilities. The S1 actually has the same sensor as found in the original SL, except for the Leica-specific microlens layer (and of course the software). Nevertheless, a pre-owned S1 is one of the best bargains in full-frame. The same excellent EVF, IBIS and a sturdy body for professional use.
Great Video Oli, Once you use Leica Glass, you never leave. Wait until you try Cinema Lens on the SL2-s 😮: keep well, Stay safe 👍🇬🇧
Thank you David. I appreciate it. What's some (budge friendly) cinema lenses you'd recommend? 🧐
@@oliscurra Unfortunately Cinema Lens are not too Budget friendly. Have used some Canon CN-e via adapter, and tried a Leitz-Summicron.
The SL2-s Sensor just has that “something” that makes it different to others. Also used Leica R Glass, they are worth collecting?
Keep well & Stay safe 👍🇬🇧
Thanks for sharing :-)
You are very welcome. 🙂
I own it and it is a MUST!!!!
It really depends on the person, but at the very least for you and I, it is. I am very impressed by the SL system.
Good review
Thanks Jon.
I agree the Leica SL2-S is a great camera. It's essentially the same as the LUMIX S5 with some Leica design stank on it. I own the LUMIX S5 and I started transitioning all of my street and portrait lenses over to the M mount ecosystem. I own the Voigtlander 21mm f4 you shot the nighttime handheld scene with. It's one of my favourite wide-angle lenses. I use it with my Leica CL, Fujifilm X-Pro3 and the Voigtlander Bessa R4M for which it was made.
I would say, I really like the SL2-S aesthetics over the S5 but I prefer the S5 price over the SL2-2. By all accounts, both cameras offer the same performance because they're essentially the same camera. Just one doesn't have a red dot. 🤣 Anywho, you just garnered a new follower. I like how you talk about gear and various use cases for it. Keep rocking.
Trust me, they’re not the same camera.
I have to agree with you on the "price" factor. I also prefer the Lumix price. 🙂 There is something to be said for UX and whatever the Leica engineers do under the hood with the sensor. But I've never shot with a Lumix, so it is difficult for me to comment more than this.
@@chloescanlon1107 feel free to elaborate. At their core they are the same camera with some internal differences to make the SL2-S a Leica branded mirrorless camera.
Those differences in my view as a photographer are not enough for me to buy the SL2-S over the S5. I'm not a videographer so the video features are not as big a deal for me.
But I do want to read your perspective.
@@oliscurra understood. I'd love to see a real world comparison of the Leica SL2-S vs the LUMIX S5 from a photographers perspective opposed to the video functionality. Hell, I'll send you my S5 just to see you do an objective and honest comparison.
Love the video mate, subscribed! Are you going try the SL lenses?
Thanks Nalla! 🙂 Before 2021 is out I definitely will. What’s your experience with them?
@@oliscurra absolutely love them! I own the 50 lux SL and the 35 & 90 cron SL and can confidently say they are best in class imo only. Yes, I agree with most that they are bigger and heavier.. but it doesn't bother me at all. I don't mind the size and weight especially when I see the resulting IQ!
At one point I had the 50 Noctilux as well. I loved the charm and dream like character of that lens and I do miss it alot! But I couldn't justify owning both and so one had to go. The decision was extremely hard to make as I enjoyed both for different reasons, but ended up keeping the SL lux due to the AF & weather resistance.
I encourage you to try the 50 lux SL! It honestly feels to me like a mini Noctilux. The rendering @1.4 is so smooth and buttery, the look is in between a 50 lux M and 50 noctilux imo. I feel what makes it pop is that the subject is always pin sharp with the accurate AF and so exaggerates subject separation from the background.
Anyway, give it a go you won't regret!
Keep the videos coming champion looking forward to more content!
Best video on covering the sl2-s. Planning on getting the Q2 to compliment my m10 w/ the 50lux but, thank you for confusing me 🤣
Thank you for the compliment Gio. I appreciate it. What was motivating you to get the Q2? 🙂
@@oliscurra I was suppose to get the 28 cron for my m6 but adding around $1000 for a Q2 seems to be more logical. I’m more into travel and product photography so the macro on the Q2 might come in handy. Thank you by the way for your reply. Hope you do a video feature review on the sl2s
@@giolee1274 In one way, I think it would be cool to have the Q2. The only thing that keeps me from getting a Q is the price depreciation. At one point you've got good glass attached to an older camera. WHereas with the summicron, the glass will hold more value and allow you to adapt it to any other camera in the future.
@@oliscurra very good point. Never thought of it that way. 👍🏻🙏🏻
@@giolee1274 Hey Gio. What did you end up getting?
Would love to see your views on the SL comparison. SL vs SLS
awesome and real video. I think the best and least pretentious on this camera so far. cant wait to get mine
Thank you very much. I appreciate it very much. Will the Sl2-S be your first Leica or haven you been shooting Leica for a while?
@@oliscurra I've shot Leica for about 15 years. First the M6TTL, then the X1 which I got when it was released and still use regularly to this day.
@@randomnicemusic5906 Ah. Long time leica shooter. 🙂 What's motivating you to get the SL2-S?
@@oliscurra Indeed I am. The thing about the Sl2-S for me is the good blend of stills/video features plus the low light performance. Another aspect is the long term support Leica offers as compared to other brands who release a new model every year making the previous obsolete.
@randomnicemusic - and? Did you end up pulling the proverbial trigger? 🙂
is not a sleeper camera, it's just a phenomenal camera that is out of budget of most people :)
Bang on about budget, but it's not the camera. It's the brand which is out of the budget of most people. Of the 4 Leica's I've owned, 3 of them were purchased used.
I am considering buying a leica SL2-S and to use it with my M glasses. But do you think it could be valuable to buy a heavy but native 24-90mm SL zoom to use the AF capabilities of the camera ? Did you try that ? Other SL prime lenses ?
I'm not a fan of the weight of these lenses and other than for self portraiture don't really appreciate nor need auto focus. So the question is do you see autofocus as a want or need? 🙂
I’ve been looking for a way to display my photos with a stand like you have at 17:49. What brand is that if you don’t mind saying?
It’s the same stand you see in the background at 00:00 by the way. My wife had a carpenter make it custom for my birthday back in 2020. It’s based off of a design she saw in MOMA. Each “frame” is A3+. Hit me up via the contact form on my website www.oliviermeier.com if you want more details, do’s & don’ts. Cheers!
Awesome video, sir. I’m currently contemplating ditching my m10 for the SL2-S. We recently had our first child and I want to check my exposure when shooting rather than chimp afterwards, future video possibilities, and maybe someday I’ll buy one of those gargantuan autofocus lenses down the road.
It’s not an easy decision, though. I do truly love my M10. The only thing I disagree with is the M7 being king. Pre ttl M6 all day baby!!
Whenever I mention the M7, I take it for granted that the legendary M6 may be touted in return, and to that I say: without a doubt the M6 has the legend status when compared to the M7. I do however love the M7. 🙂
In terms of selling the M10. Personally there are some nostalgic moments, when I miss the M10-P and rarely because of its size. However as I mentioned in another comment earlier somewhere.. the SL2-S has for me a gorgeous balance of UX, usable modern features and a gorgeous sensor. Not M9 gorgeous, but totally gorgeous. Plus its finally given me an answer to Black & White film. Now whilst BW film is still the king of all BW ever, I can shoot the SL2-S in such a way that I love the Black and whites coming from a digital camera. I did a video on it, if you haven't seen that yet.
In terms of the gargantuan lenses, no chance. Not yet. For the moment, I attach my M lenses and that's it. I'm comfortable manually focussing. The weight to value ratio is strongly skewed to the former than the latter at this point in time. Take care!
@@oliscurra Hi, thanks for the detailed reply. Dont get me wrong, I wouldn't turn my nose up at an M7. The M6 was just barely within bdget at the time I bought mine and the M7 was about $1K US more :) . For the nostalgia, the M6 does that in spades. Im sure your M7 feels similar, but to me it is the most beautiful balance of weight and size. The M10 has been sitting a lot recently because of the M6.
My SL2-S arrives tomorrow. I am intrigued by your opinion and results on the BW images coming out of the camera. Funny enough, I became so enamored with color film when I got my M6 that I haven't shot a single roll of BW film. When the M10 was my only camera, 90% of the stuff I was posting was BW conversions. Have a great day and you got a new sub here from the U.S.
@@SunshineHB Hey Sunshine. How's the SL2-S? Are you still rockin' it?
@@oliscurra Hi, I have officially gone full circle and am now back on the Q system (Q2). The original Q as my first Leica camera way back and I went Q, M240, (Hasselblad X1D), M10, M6, SL2-S, Q2.
Thankfully, all of these were bought used and I was able to get my money back out of them 😅
The SL2-S was really amazing, and I took a lot of low light photos of my sons first months I probably couldn’t have captured as cleanly with my other cameras. 12,500 ISO was killing it! The damned thing sees in the dark. The size and weight of it ended up getting the best of me. I owned the 24-90 and the 35APO (possibly the best lens to ever exist). The zoom was like a rocket launcher. I told myself I would keep it in case I ever did any “serious work” again, but ultimately couldn’t justify a $4000 paper weight. The 35 was amazing, but after a couple family trips I realized it wasn’t quite wide enough. A smaller camera with a 28 was back on the menu. Thats the combo i shot with the M10, but I didn’t want to go back to manual focus and I actually prefer the EVF for family stuff, because I’m sure I’m getting the shot I want. I tried out a Q2 and it made perfect sense. I could crop to my preferred 35mm and still have more resolution than the SL2-S. The low light does suck compared to the SL, but it’s totally useable for me. I’m looking forward to seeing what the next Q camera brings to the lineup.
Thanks for checking up!
Thank you for your thoughts? Do you think the Leica Sl2-S matches the images that come from an M10, I know it's subjective just wondering what your opinion is.
Yes "match" is very subjective. Let's put it this way, I prefer the SL2-S backlit sensor. Incredible low light capabilities. Much better auto white balance. But I love the M10 body. 🙂
Hey, am planning to buy Sl2s. Can you tell me if it has rolling shutter issues? And is it any good for night video shoot? Thanks,
I enjoy using M lenses on SL2 for over a year. I just bought the SL2S because of the $1300 price cut and the free adapter. I know it is especially good in low lighting situations and should be better than my SL2 for shooting Northern Lights handheld. Some said it is easier to focus than the SL2; that I will find out with the 50 mm Noctilux now mounted on my M10-M. Any M users should be delighted by its EVF especially when using lenses with shallow depth of field.
Hi, Wilfred! I wanted to ask where you were able toe get the free adapter? I see that Leica is still running the $1300 price cut but I haven't seen anything about the adapter. Thanks, in advance!
@@Deetroiter it was last year.
Subbed! If you go for an AF lens, I think you'd like the ART 85mm DN (not the big HSM) or the I-series compacts with aperture rings.
Thanks for the tip Fellow Citizen. Any recommendations in the 28mm range? 🤔
Damn you. That's it. I am getting one.
And? Did you? 🙂
Great video, would be cool to see your SL2S compared to the SL2
Thanks Michael. I appreciate it. Are you planning on purchasing either?
@@oliscurra I’m debating moving my SL2 for the SL2S. Just make stills so the video features are not a concern but i do like the idea of the better ISO performance. Not sure if i would miss the resolution
@@michaelrivera2748 To be honest, I am not certain if it's worth it. I've not used the SL2 so I cannot say how much worse the high iso is. The low light capability of the SL2-S is better than the M10-P, but it's not reason enough for me to move. Then again, I come from film, so even the M9 high ISO performance in most situations is ok for me. Have you got a lot of photos were you feel the high iso is lacking?
Hi Olivier, our equipments are very similar. I'm using M7, SL2 and SL2-s. I dont and want own any of the SL Lenses because they are to heavy, big and fat. It's a great thing to use the SL's only with m-Lenses. I have a question to you. Would you pls share your settings for Jpeg's in Monochrom ton your SL Camera? Thank you, Murat
Hey Murat, yes we have very similar setups. Does your M7 get a lot of use still? I'd love to see some of your work. Please let me know where.
I also am not so interested in the L lenses myself. Who knows what the future may bring, but right now I am loving my M lenses on the SL2-S.
Great question on the monochrome settings. In fact, what I will do is a whole video on my monochrom settings. I am loving the BW this camera produces. BIG TIME!! 🙂
Don't forget to send me an account where I can see some of your work. Cheers!
What are your thoughts on the Leica SL system for your type of photography?
Greetings, That s the 50mm Noctilux on the table?
@@jkdrake1 yes it is.
@@oliscurra have you tried the. Leica S lenses with the SL2-S? If so what are your thoughts in comparison?
Great channel, Oli -- thanks for putting in the time on it. Internet says right around 1k subscribers is a YT inflection point; 🤞you see that in action. I just ordered an SL2-S and it's also my first move into Leica -- your review made it easier to feel confident spending the money.
Definitely do a video on this sometime if it turns into a huge rabbit hole (the potential is definitely there), but even just in the comment/tweet, would you weigh in on the different 50mm M lens you've shot and what's stuck with you?
I'm looking at the used market and, for now, not looking to go past the higher-end of Summicron-M f2 -- with your approach to stuff, I figure you've probably got some thoughts on leaning into the trade-offs of going for one of the Voigtlanders or other 3rd parties (and maximizing their advantages, besides just the room they leave in a budget over Leica-price). Obviously there's a ton of comprehensive and well-done lens comparison out there -- no need to re-invent the wheel or anything like that, but whatever quick thoughts you (or anyone else reading this) have on it would be cool to hear about 👍
@@oapostrocon Hey Jim, thank you for the message. I'm super glad to hear from you. Let's see where the channel goes. Truth is I don't want to just stay on photography topics. We shall see. 🙂 In terms of a 50mm... I can absolutely weigh in on this for you. The number one question would be, what sort of character should it have. Modern or classic? If you say classic, then my favourite 50mm is the Zeiss Sonnar 5m 1.5 C. It's got such an awesome character, full of optical flaws (some would say) which I call character. Beautiful bokeh and very pleasing skin tones. It's one of my favourite lenses ever. If modern, then I am not the best person to recommend a lens. I don't like the modern (read: tack sharp, strong contrast, hyper clean) looks too often.
I bought this camera thanks to this video...
I’d love to hear what you think Brian. 🙂 🤙🏾
What adapter do you use for Nikon lenses?
Love your photo screen in the background! Do you know where I can get one?
Hi Jim, I don’t unfortunately. My wife had it custom made for me for my birthday.
Have you shot it with non Leica glass such as sigma l mounts or tt artisans?
Hey Alex, I have shot it with Zeiss glass as well as old Nikkor and Minolta lenses too. Not with Sigma or tt artisans. Why do you ask?
Great review, but picked one to feel the size and weight and it really turned me off. Own a Q2 and a CL that also can use M lenses just fine. Just regret I can`t have the high ISO performance of the SL2-S. Good job!
To be honest, high iso performance is overrated. Quite frankly the Q2 is an absolute beast. I don't have any experience with the CL myself though. And yeah, the size and weight is what threw me off the SL2-S when I first tried in January, but now I'm quite used to it. 🙂
@@oliscurra it means a lot to hear that, an honest opinion is always priceless. The CL is quite good, with the 35TL Lux and the ELMAR-T 11-23 i`m quite happy with the results, but it lacks the IBIS and it`s probably on a diferent level.
Oli, all good, I am still holding strong ( after seeing the price of m noctilux ;-) ), but what sensible price m lens would you suggest to look for? I got nothing to do yet with leica ( shooting Ricoh gr 🙂), just considering. Thanks p.s. great background, great narrative, great self portraits, all very inspiring !!
Hey Filip, good to hear from you. Glad to help you on your lens choices. The key questions are:
which focal length, modern or more vintage character and most importantly does it have to be Leica or can we stray from them? 🙂
@@oliscurra I got inspired by Ben to try portraits with 28 mm. This would be a start when I collect some money both for lens and the camera. I have no professional camera except for Mamiya RB 67 😉 and was considering Leica SLS or Canon R6 Ii. Currently learning 40 mm with Ricoh and single flash 🙂
@@oliscurra and sure not necessarily Leica lens
Howd the rangefinder view against the screen? Are they the same?
What do you mean? Rangefinder from an M7 or M10-è vs the Viewfinder or the back display of the SL2-S?
thoughts on getting an SL body instead for wedding photography? or would you go for this one instead?
I’ve not shot the SL so it’s difficult for me to compare the two. Do you shoot video?
@@oliscurra I shoot photo only
Bro , you sould invest in upgrading the environment you're shhooting in. You are going to be famous, you're talented in speaking.
Very kind of you to say. I'm travelling at the moment and trying to produce videos, so the environment is gonna be changing quite a bit. Look out for my next video dropping next Tuesday. I think you might like it.
HI. I have some issues with receiving DNG files, an email with the files didn't arrive. The one with newsletter confirmation did.
Hi there. Once you've confirmed the newsletter you should get a welcome mail from me. I've sent it to your mail address manually. Cheers, Oli 👋🏾
@@oliscurra Thanks, this time it arrived. Thanks for a quick response. I must say that Leica files are quite awesome. Definitely worth further invastigation. And by that I mean that I need to go to the different city to rent it and shoot with it. I'm afraid that my savings will melt in the near future 😅
Cools Video 👍🏻 Ich halte immer noch an meiner Type 601 fest, auch eine geniale Kamera. Btw the download link ain't work ...
Ciao Bruno. Thanks for the hint about the link. It's fixed now.
Habe noch nie mit der 601 fotografiert, ist aber sicher eine coole Kamera. Mir gefallt einfach diese SL Konzept. Fotografierst du eher mit L Mount Objektive oder mit M Mount?
What do you think of Q2 as first camera? Is it too narrow to shoot indoor of a small room? There people make video of iPhone can get same look and quality in bright outdoor sunny day, is this mean it's not worth to get a camera like Q2 now if you are not photographer and just interred in photography?
And why you don't have ring?
I like the photo where your wife is outside and you shot in indoor, so artistic!
I think the Q2 as a first camera is great, especially for a beginner photographer. It would really help a person get locked into a focal length and learn the rules of composition. It's of course an expensive first camera.
I think iPhones make lovely photos. They however don't provide the user experience I want and they do not yet compete with the physics of a larger sensor. Do you prefer to shoot with a camera or a smartphone camera?
I'm not quite certain, where I am not wearing my ring. And thanks. My wife is one of my favourite models. She features very much in my photography. As you will notice in future videos, including the one coming out next week. 🙂
@@oliscurra I see, I use my phone t poo shoot all the time so 28mm is like overused and wanna try other focal length and back then I even thought 28mm is the low class level of focal length and you have to use camera to get other higher end focal length but after I learned deeper, 28mm is the sweet spot and Q2 fit it well, just that I not sure if I do medium or other tight indoor space able to cover everything, does panorama is same as an ultrawide in the perspective and distortion aspects?
I like the SL2-S but still wonder if I shouldn’t have bought the SL2 instead. There’s just a certain refinement and more of the “Leica look” to its images to my eye.
But now you gotta show me the photos where you see the Leica Look from the SL2. 🙂
I've always maintained that it's primarily the lenses that provide that look under the right lighting conditions.
I could do that if I could post photos here. But I’ve blind tested and can tell an SL2 shot from an SL2-S shot with surprising consistency, even with the same lenses. It’s something in the microcontrast and color sculpting. The SL2 shots look more medium-format and less flat to me.
The is no plastic on the SL2. Its all metal and glass. So, there is plastic on the SL2-s?
Every time I think I’d like to get a Leica, I look at the specs and the price. So far that ploy has worked very well and the G.A.S. has passed.
I absolutely hear you on the cost.
@@oliscurra Hi! I would really like to have an SL if money was no object, just because the build and aesthetic is so cool. I do use Voigtlander manual lenses on my Sony though.
@@vampolascott36 truth is Leica cameras for me are less about features and more about how they are designed to help me get the shot. But… you’re focused on the most important thing… which is the glass. And the glass designed for the M system in my opinion are simply the best. Whether it’s made by Leica, Zeiss or Voigtländer. Which lenses are you shooting?
@@oliscurra I've got the 21mm 1,4 Nokton and the 50mm 1.2 Nokton. I've very confident with them. They're the only two lenses I'm taking to Tokyo with me next week.
@@vampolascott36 those are some great lenses. I’ve got the Voigtlander 21mm 1.8 and it’s without a doubt one of my favourite lenses. I’d love to see the photos from your trip. Do you post them online somewhere?
Missing a flip screen 🤔 😕 😫 😪 😩 😢
I hear ya. I totally do. What camera do you shoot?
not related but how did you end up in switzerland :)
Probably by car, or maybe even public transport?
@@chloescanlon1107 All of the above. Plane too. Tried by boat but alas - it didn't work out. 😉
I'm Swiss. 🙂
You haven't said anything about the AF . . . good . . . bad . . . so so . . .
I haven't shot any autofocus lenses on it. They are too big for my liking. I like the smaller M lenses.
£5000 for 24 mp camera , not for me thats z9 money
Fair enough Joe. What camera setup are you rockin'?
Isn't that a lot of grain on your pics as on your wife? Am I missing something?
If it's a lot is one thing, but yes, I add grain. I'm one of those "grain is life" people. 🙂
Nice hairdo
I try. 🙂