Photo of the day February 2016

[kenoh]

Possibly, but, I have to say that no, Leica, it is at the moment, and Leica it will remain.

Actually, I used to be a big fan of Pentax in the old days - they made beautiful, ergonomic, yet exquisitely small SLRs. The Pentax ME Super (which was my first SLR) was a stunning camera - it took great pictures, wasn't huge or heavy, and yet was a beautifully put together SLR.

My M6 is well built, sits and fits beautifully in my hand, and has stunning (but not massive) lenses. The 35 mm Summilux that seems to have become my lens of choice is not large by any means - it only looks large when it is compared to the beautifully tiny Summilux 50 mm (which I also have, as it became available at the sam time as the 35mm for an attractive price).

Mind you, someday, Leica will build a digital camera that I will succumb to the temptation of purchasing……..

I like-a-da-Leica... M6 is a bout as good as it gets for film.

For me though, M9 all the way... LOVE it... use it more than my A7Rii! 50 lux is incredible on it.
[doublepost=1456942121][/doublepost]

Someday. Yes, I must say that I would like to be able to contribute occasionally to the Photo of the Day, and the Weekly Competition threads, sometimes.

For some reason, cathedrals, castles, old houses, old cities and Round Towers seem to predominate………somehow, I never got the hang of landscapes in the cold, wet, dreary climate (and light) of the British Isles……

And yes, I occasionally shoot people. Actually, I love studying the effect of light on people, preferably natural light.

Please share! you see the rot I put out, all are welcome. Why not share? come on... you are amongst friends here.

 

[Apple fanboy]

Someday. Yes, I must say that I would like to be able to contribute occasionally to the Photo of the Day, and the Weekly Competition threads, sometimes.

For some reason, cathedrals, castles, old houses, old cities and Round Towers seem to predominate………somehow, I never got the hang of landscapes in the cold, wet, dreary climate (and light) of the British Isles……

And yes, I occasionally shoot people. Actually, I love studying the effect of light on people, preferably natural light.

Yes the british sky doesn't always lend itself to nice landscapes. Often its just featureless and grey.

As Ive said to you before I'm sure your local camera shop could pop some on a CD for you next time you get them developed.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

I like-a-da-Leica... M6 is a bout as good as it gets for film.

For me though, M9 all the way... LOVE it... use it more than my A7Rii! 50 lux is incredible on it.
[doublepost=1456942121][/doublepost]

Please share! you see the rot I put out, all are welcome. Why not share? come on... you are amongst friends here.

Thanks - the fact that I am still shooting film is the single biggest issue which prevents my participation.

But the Leica M6 is a great camera, not big, not heavy, beautifully designed, sits nicely around my neck (in cathedrals), and feels absolutely lovely in my hand. I have been able to get some really nice atmospheric interior shots (in cathedrals…..and old churches…) with that summilux 35; the light readings are amazing (and I bought it because we are so light deprived in our miserable British Isles, even in - especially in - those awful summers when it rains non stop).

Mind you, I will admit that I am - ever so vaguely - keeping an eye out for a good 'used' digital Leica from the M family. Do you recommend the M9 that highly?

Yes the british sky doesn't always lend itself to nice landscapes. Often its just featureless and grey.

As Ive said to you before I'm sure your local camera shop could pop some on a CD for you next time you get them developed.

Featureless and grey - and then, a nice panoramic vista - say up the Downs - comes out in what a friend of mine termed 'subtle' (i.e. insipid, and bland and boring - at least the cathedrals have gargoyles, graves, stunning arches, and extraordinary stained glass windows.

Domestic stuff and the appalling weather - endless rain and storms - have also served as constraints on camera time; actually, I don't think I have been out with it since before Christmas…..

 

[Apple fanboy]

Thanks - the fact that I am still shooting film is the single biggest issue which prevents my participation.

But the Leica M6 is a great camera, not big, not heavy, beautifully designed, sits nicely around my neck (in cathedrals), and feels absolutely lovely in my hand. I have been able to get some really nice atmospheric interior shots (in cathedrals…..and old churches…) with that summilux 35; the light readings are amazing (and I bought it because we are so light deprived in our miserable British Isles, even in - especially in - those awful summers when it rains non stop).

Mind you, I will admit that I am - ever so vaguely - keeping an eye out for a good 'used' digital Leica from the M family. Do you recommend the M9 that highly?



Featureless and grey - and then, a nice panoramic vista - say up the Downs - comes out in what a friend of mine termed 'subtle' (i.e. insipid, and bland and boring - at least the cathedrals have gargoyles, graves, stunning arches, and extraordinary stained glass windows.

Domestic stuff and the appalling weather - endless rain and storms - have also served as constraints on camera time; actually, I don't think I have been out with it since before Christmas…..

Tell me about it! I hope to put that right as the weather improves, but also need to be mindful of things at home.

 

[kenoh]

Thanks - the fact that I am still shooting film is the single biggest issue which prevents my participation.

But the Leica M6 is a great camera, not big, not heavy, beautifully designed, sits nicely around my neck (in cathedrals), and feels absolutely lovely in my hand. I have been able to get some really nice atmospheric interior shots (in cathedrals…..and old churches…) with that summilux 35; the light readings are amazing (and I bought it because we are so light deprived in our miserable British Isles, even in - especially in - those awful summers when it rains non stop).

Mind you, I will admit that I am - ever so vaguely - keeping an eye out for a good 'used' digital Leica from the M family. Do you recommend the M9 that highly?



Featureless and grey - and then, a nice panoramic vista - say up the Downs - comes out in what a friend of mine termed 'subtle' (i.e. insipid, and bland and boring - at least the cathedrals have gargoyles, graves, stunning arches, and extraordinary stained glass windows.

Domestic stuff and the appalling weather - endless rain and storms - have also served as constraints on camera time; actually, I don't think I have been out with it since before Christmas…..

Well. As long as you can keep the ISO down to 800 or less, then it is a beautiful shooting experience. I love the colours on it. M240 is appealing but too expensive. I adore the simpler shooting experience.

The Sony is like the Space Shuttle technically brilliant, amazing for its designed purpose but that clinical precision and surgical sharpness sometimes loses the beauty of why I like to shoot.

Everyone is different but when I shoot the M9 it is special to me. Special how I came by it ans it is my cherished camera. I adore it so maybe I may be shooting through a rose tinted viewfinder but it is a beautiful thing.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

Tell me about it! I hope to put that right as the weather improves, but also need to be mindful of things at home.

I hear you, believe me. My own situation is not al that dissimilar….
[doublepost=1456943659][/doublepost]

Well. As long as you can keep the ISO down to 800 or less, then it is a beautiful shooting experience. I love the colours on it. M240 is appealing but too expensive. I adore the simpler shooting experience.

The Sony is like the Space Shuttle technically brilliant, amazing for its designed purpose but that clinical precision and surgical sharpness sometimes loses the beauty of why I like to shoot.

Everyone is different but when I shoot the M9 it is special to me. Special how I came by it ans it is my cherished camera. I adore it so maybe I may be shooting through a rose tinted viewfinder but it is a beautiful thing.

In terms of what the actual camera offers, what is the difference between the M9 and the M240?

The latter has received great reviews from those who put it through its paces.

Now, I have absolutely no interest in a completely pared down ad brutally pure manual experience, - let us not pretend that technology cannot help us at times, - and moreover, and the idea of paying Leica stupid money for a camera that only shoots in black and white (one of their other models) strikes me as utterly daft.

At the moment, I can simply load a good quality B&W film into the M6 and I'm fine if I really want that retro look - and it is good with buildings and in the sort of climate I shoot in when I'm at home. However, I will say that I love the M6, and enjoy using it - when I can get out and the weather (and domestic stuff) allow for that to happen.

 

[kenoh]

Tell me about it! I hope to put that right as the weather improves, but also need to be mindful of things at home.

God yes! bring on our three days of sunshine for the year!
[doublepost=1456944657][/doublepost]

I hear you, believe me. My own situation is not al that dissimilar….
[doublepost=1456943659][/doublepost]

In terms of what the actual camera offers, what is the difference between the M9 and the M240?

The latter has received great reviews from those who put it through its paces.

Now, I have absolutely no interest in a completely pared down ad brutally pure manual experience, - let us not pretend that technology cannot help us at times, - and moreover, and the idea of paying Leica stupid money for a camera that only shoots in black and white (one of their other models) strikes me as utterly daft.

At the moment, I can simply load a good quality B&W film into the M6 and I'm fine if I really want that retro look - and it is good with buildings and in the sort of climate I shoot in when I'm at home. However, I will say that I love the M6, and enjoy using it - when I can get out and the weather (and domestic stuff) allow for that to happen.

Yeah I dont get the £6,000 for a B&W camera when I can get Silver efx or some other tool to do it just fine for my untrained eye. I am yet to see someone pick out a Monochrom image from another B&W post processed bayer image.

M9 versus M240, apart from £2,000 price difference of course.

The M240 is very good it can go to higher ISO - around 3200 is usable from the 24mp CMOS sensor. The 18mp CCD in the M9 gives a different tone straight out of camera but you can get close in post if you want. As you shoot film, you are not in the world of post processing yet so don't underestimate this.

The M9 is lighter, it makes a cute little click-whirr... sound when you shoot as it recocks the shutter.

The M9 just doesnt do anything other than what your M6 does apart from auto ISO (you have manual ISO right now).

The M240 shoots video and has live view. Neither are something I am THAT bothered about. Not a video guy and my Sony has live view if I need it. M240 has a new light meter. The M9 uses the same one from the M6...

The new M model 262 is basically an M240 with the video and liveview taken off it i.e. making an M240 like the M9.

I am waffling but I just enjoy the M9, no faff, no clutter, no scene modes or panorama stuff... crap picture tells me immediately it is me.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

God yes! bring on our three days of sunshine for the year!
[doublepost=1456944657][/doublepost]

Yeah I dont get the £6,000 for a B&W camera when I can get Silver efx or some other tool to do it just fine for my untrained eye. I am yet to see someone pick out a Monochrom image from another B&W post processed bayer image.

M9 versus M240, apart from £2,000 price difference of course.

The M240 is very good it can go to higher ISO - around 3200 is usable from the 24mp CMOS sensor. The 18mp CCD in the M9 gives a different tone straight out of camera but you can get close in post if you want. As you shoot film, you are not in the world of post processing yet so don't underestimate this.

The M9 is lighter, it makes a cute little click-whirr... sound when you shoot as it recocks the shutter.

The M9 just doesnt do anything other than what your M6 does apart from auto ISO (you have manual ISO right now).

The M240 shoots video and has live view. Neither are something I am THAT bothered about. Not a video guy and my Sony has live view if I need it. M240 has a new light meter. The M9 uses the same one from the M6...

The new M model 262 is basically an M240 with the video and liveview taken off it i.e. making an M240 like the M9.

I am waffling but I just enjoy the M9, no faff, no clutter, no scene modes or panorama stuff... crap picture tells me immediately it is me.

No, you are not waffling at all, I find this most interesting to read, and thanks for taking the time and trouble to post your thoughts.

And no, I beg to differ: 'Crap pictures' are not your signature by any means - you've taken some terrific shots.

Anyway, as I am deeply immersed in the Leica world (not least in that I have purchased some very decent glass), when I go digital, obviously, it will be to Leica.

Ah, now that is fascinating; this new M 262 is basically a 240 minus bells and whistles such as video and live view (neither of which interest me in the slightest). Worth thinking about.

You are quite right, of course; the world of post processing is completely alien to me - indeed, the very vocabulary of the digital world is quite alien to me.

 

[kenoh]

No, you are not waffling at all, I find this most interesting to read, and thanks for taking the time and trouble to post your thoughts.

And no, I beg to differ: 'Crap pictures' are not your signature by any means - you've taken some terrific shots.

Anyway, as I am deeply immersed in the Leica world (not least in that I have purchased some very decent glass), when I go digital, obviously, it will be to Leica.

Ah, now that is fascinating; this new M 262 is basically a 240 minus bells and whistles such as video and live view (neither of which interest me in the slightest). Worth thinking about.

You are quite right, of course; the world of post processing is completely alien to me - indeed, the very vocabulary of the digital world is quite alien to me.

Thank you kindly but you are being polite. The M262 is very interesting. It has an aluminium (note the spelling people!), it has an aluminium top plate so it is lighter. The M240 is a little heavier than the M9 so the M262 is better for people sensitive to the weight. Add to this that is isn't really a typical Leica price hike situation either. It comes in slightly cheaper than a M240.

You will need to factor in a thumbsup device. Remember, you may use the winding lever to rest your thumb on to get a better grip on your M6. That is not there on the M digitals so a thumbsup puts one there. Great device.

Post processing is a whole new process on top of shooting. That is for another day but suffice to say it is a skill you will need to learn.

I would heartily recommend a digital M next year - when the next gen M is expected.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

Thank you kindly but you are being polite. The M262 is very interesting. It has an aluminium (note the spelling people!), it has an aluminium top plate so it is lighter. The M240 is a little heavier than the M9 so the M262 is better for people sensitive to the weight. Add to this that is isn't really a typical Leica price hike situation either. It comes in slightly cheaper than a M240.

You will need to factor in a thumbsup device. Remember, you may use the winding lever to rest your thumb on to get a better grip on your M6. That is not there on the M digitals so a thumbsup puts one there. Great device.

Post processing is a whole new process on top of shooting. That is for another day but suffice to say it is a skill you will need to learn.

I would heartily recommend a digital M next year - when the next gen M is expected.

No, @kenoh - while I can be polite, if I dislike something I will generally remain silent rather than lavishing praise. Some of your shots have been excellent - and I have learned quite a lot from these threads, as the vast majority of the individuals who inhabit them tend to be warmly welcoming and friendly as well as very generous with their advice.

Quite recently, for a few years, I had a challenging and interesting job which paid what some might consider stupid money. This allowed for the purchase of the Leica, and - initially - two summicron lenses (the 35 and 50); however, once, when home on leave, I spotted the two summiluxes for sale, - they were in perfect condition but I was able to buy them 'used' - and traded in the 35 mm summicron.

You would recommend waiting for the next generation, rather than mulling over a M 262?

Re the M6, as a middle aged, somewhat vertically challenged, (though not small) female, with small hands, from a physical perspective, - and ease of use - ergonomically, I find it a perfect camera. It is such a pleasure to have and to hold and use; well made, reassuringly solid, and yet not heavy. Yes, I admit that I rather like the winding lever.

 

[kenoh]

No, @kenoh - while I can be polite, if I dislike something I will generally remain silent rather than lavishing praise. Some of your shots have been excellent - and I have learned quite a lot from these threads, as the vast majority of the individuals who inhabit them tend to be warmly welcoming and friendly as well as very generous with their advice.

Quite recently, for a few years, I had a challenging and interesting job which paid what some might consider stupid money. This allowed for the purchase of the Leica, and - initially - two summicron lenses (the 35 and 50); however, once, when home on leave, I spotted the two summiluxes for sale, - they were in perfect condition but I was able to buy them 'used' - and traded in the 35 mm summicron.

You would recommend waiting for the next generation, rather than mulling over a M 262?

Re the M6, as a middle aged, somewhat vertically challenged, (though not small) female, with small hands, from a physical perspective, - and ease of use - ergonomically, I find it a perfect camera. It is such a pleasure to have and to hold and use; well made, reassuringly solid, and yet not heavy. Yes, I admit that I rather like the winding lever.

I have 35 and 50 Summiluxes... they have spoiled me... nothing else compares. I cannot work out if I am a 35 or a 50 shooter... so I try both based on mood. I too bought near mint used condition and I have not regretted it.

Thank you for your kind words. I don't take praise easily as you no doubt have noticed. I feel embarrassed - low self esteem or some such psycho reasoning.

On the next generation M, just putting it out there. I believe 2017 is the year for the next major leap from the M240/262/246. Based on what we have seen on the Q and the SL, I am looking forward to what they might pull out for the M if anything. As to what it will add, I dont know but for me, with the M9, I can't personally justify the money for the M240/262 right now as I enjoy shooting my 6 year old tech camera over my 6 month old tech camera lol.... I am in no rush to move on.

I think the M262 would be perfect for you right now. It gives good iso performance, is lighter, quieter for cathedrals, better battery life and takes that stunning glass you already own. From my frequent drool sessions in Red Dot Cameras, it is a pleasure to hold and use; well made, reassuringly solid, and yet not heavy and gives instant feedback on your art.

BTW, the screen on the M9, M9P and M-E are all shockingly bad for anything other than menu navigation... which can be a good thing as I dont chimp half as much as I used to. The M240/262 are night and day better than the M9 screen.

Funny story (for me anyway), I got the M9 and spent a day shooting, chimping and getting increasingly worried about the image quality as seen on the screen on the M9. So worried I was concerned i had missed some shots. I loaded them up onto the computer and the screen on the back couldnt be further from the truth. They were beautiful (to my eye). Sharp, vibrant relative to my usual complaint of my dull images and typically need very little if any tweaking in post. Just a joy.. have I said that already?

I think you would love an M262 and it would mean we could enjoy your images the way you enjoy ours.

 

[MacRy]

Just to throw something else in the mix ScepticalS - If you was just wanting to dip your toes in the digital water and not spend much money before moving on to Leica loveliness then I would recommend a used Fuji X100 (the original version and not the S or T variants). They can be had for next to nothing on eBay and the images they produce are gorgeous. They have a rangefinder feel to them and they are incredibly light and compact. I had the X100 and upgraded to the X100T and still really miss the original. I sometimes think about selling the T and buying a used X100 as the images it produced were so much more organic looking than the clinical look of the T.

 

[Apple fanboy]

You two need help!

 

[MacRy]

You two need help!

Your the dealer fella, we're just the foot soldiers sending the business your way
I think I might visit the Photography show this year at the NEC as it falls on my birthday. Are you there for the full four days as I'm thinking of going on the Monday?

 

[Scepticalscribe]

I have 35 and 50 Summiluxes... they have spoiled me... nothing else compares. I cannot work out if I am a 35 or a 50 shooter... so I try both based on mood. I too bought near mint used condition and I have not regretted it.

Thank you for your kind words. I don't take praise easily as you no doubt have noticed. I feel embarrassed - low self esteem or some such psycho reasoning.

On the next generation M, just putting it out there. I believe 2017 is the year for the next major leap from the M240/262/246. Based on what we have seen on the Q and the SL, I am looking forward to what they might pull out for the M if anything. As to what it will add, I dont know but for me, with the M9, I can't personally justify the money for the M240/262 right now as I enjoy shooting my 6 year old tech camera over my 6 month old tech camera lol.... I am in no rush to move on.

I think the M262 would be perfect for you right now. It gives good iso performance, is lighter, quieter for cathedrals, better battery life and takes that stunning glass you already own. From my frequent drool sessions in Red Dot Cameras, it is a pleasure to hold and use; well made, reassuringly solid, and yet not heavy and gives instant feedback on your art.

BTW, the screen on the M9, M9P and M-E are all shockingly bad for anything other than menu navigation... which can be a good thing as I dont chimp half as much as I used to. The M240/262 are night and day better than the M9 screen.

Funny story (for me anyway), I got the M9 and spent a day shooting, chimping and getting increasingly worried about the image quality as seen on the screen on the M9. So worried I was concerned i had missed some shots. I loaded them up onto the computer and the screen on the back couldnt be further from the truth. They were beautiful (to my eye). Sharp, vibrant relative to my usual complaint of my dull images and typically need very little if any tweaking in post. Just a joy.. have I said that already?

I think you would love an M262 and it would mean we could enjoy your images the way you enjoy ours.

Lovely post, and thank you for it.

As an aside, have you ever tried the legendary Noctilux?

Just to throw something else in the mix ScepticalS - If you was just wanting to dip your toes in the digital water and not spend much money before moving on to Leica loveliness then I would recommend a used Fuji X100 (the original version and not the S or T variants). They can be had for next to nothing on eBay and the images they produce are gorgeous. They have a rangefinder feel to them and they are incredibly light and compact. I had the X100 and upgraded to the X100T and still really miss the original. I sometimes think about selling the T and buying a used X100 as the images it produced were so much more organic looking than the clinical look of the T.

To be honest, I seem to have become er, hauled in to the Leica way of life.

Back in 2009, my Nikon F100 - a great camera, but one that was somewhat uncomfortably heavy when strolling around old cities - was stolen from my suitcase en route to the Caucasus while returning from leave.

At the time, I was working in the Caucasus for a few years, in a position that was also pretty well remunerated. Anyway, I debated switching to digital when I next returned home on leave, but instead went retro, and bought a used Leica R (the R7, which I still have), and the wonderful 35-70 Leica lens that came with it. (Actually, I wrote about that, seeking advice on some sub-forum here at the time. The DSLRs that were recommended were absolutely massive, and hugely heavy, not what I had in mind, as I discovered when I actually examined them when next home on leave.)

That sold me on the Leica world, and I love the look and form factor of the M, so when a M6 became available I decided to buy the body, and slowly take pleasure in adding lenses to it over time. Now that I have those lenses (a 90 Summarit has been put aside to be collected and paid for when fresh funds are available) it seems silly not to get a digital Leica when the time comes to switch to that format, as I already have some amazing lenses.

You two need help!

You mean @kenoh and @MacRy? No, they are kind enough to proffer some advice and suggestions to me. Anyway, I seem to be the person who needs a bit of help, at this stage….

 

[Apple fanboy]

Your the dealer fella, we're just the foot soldiers sending the business your way
I think I might visit the Photography show this year at the NEC as it falls on my birthday. Are you there for the full four days as I'm thinking of going on the Tuesday?

I'll be there Friday setting up. Last year finished around 8 pm.
Saturday until Tuesday 9-6. Then Tuesday night I'll break down the stand and take all the gear back to the office!
Be sure to look me up. I'll be the dehydrated one looking tired! Ish visited last year. Stand C81.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

I'll be there Friday setting up. Last year finished around 8 pm.
Saturday until Tuesday 9-6. Then Tuesday night I'll break down the stand and take all the gear back to the office!
Be sure to look me up. I'll be the dehydrated one looking tired! Ish visited last year. Stand C81.

Sounds extremely interesting and I hope you really enjoy it.

 

[Apple fanboy]

Lovely post, and thank you for it.

As an aside, have you ever tried the legendary Noctilux?



To be honest, I seem to have become er, hauled in to the Leica way of life.

Back in 2009, my Nikon F100 - a great camera, but one that was somewhat uncomfortably heavy when strolling around old cities - was stolen from my suitcase en route to the caucasus while returning from leave.

At the time, I was working in the Caucasus for a few years, in a position that was also pretty well remunerated. Anyway, I debated switching to digital when I next returned home on leave, but instead went retro, and bought a used Leica R (the R7, which I still have), and the wonderful 35-70 Leica lens that came with it.

That sold me on the Leica world, and I love the look and form factor of the M, so when a M6 became available I decided to buy the body, and slowly take pleasure in adding lenses to it over time. Now that I have those lenses (a 90 Summarit has been put aside to be collected and paid for when fresh funds are available) it seems silly not to get a digital Leica when the time comes to switch to that format, as I already have some amazing lenses.



You mean @kenoh and @MacRy? No, they are kind enough to proffer some advice and suggestions to me. Anyway, I seem to be the person who needs a bit of help, at this stage….

Don't be pulled into their GAS (gear acusition syndrome !) ways.
They start off being helpful, then you'll find your hooked, selling your kidney online so you can pick up another lens or body!

Maybe you should come to The Photography Show as well!
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Sounds extremely interesting and I hope you really enjoy it.

Think more exhausting. No breaks either. Did I mention the no breaks part?
Can't wait.
Of course I don't get to see much of the show but they do put quite a lot on over the four days.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

Don't be pulled into their GAS (gear acusition syndrome !) ways.
They start off being helpful, then you'll find your hooked, selling your kidney online so you can pick up another lens or body!

Maybe you should come to The Photography Show as well!
[doublepost=1456953608][/doublepost]
Think more exhausting. No breaks either. Did I mention the no breaks part?
Can't wait.
Of course I don't get to see much of the show but they do put quite a lot on over the four days.

Yes, Leica tend to be the 'mortgage your kidney' gang. However, I have gotten all of my Leica equipment used from a very reputable authorised Leica dealer. This is because some Leica owners tend to be a bit anal about their stuff, so yes, it is possible to get it in extremely good condition.

And, as I am a great believer in deferred gratification, I am happy to wait a while for it, and enjoy it when I finally do manage to lay hands on it. But the light reading from those Summilux lenses are breath taking; it almost does away with needing flash, and indoors, natural light is usually more than adequate, especially if it is during daylight.

One of the things I love about the M6 is the small size, and retro look; it looks like something your grandfather might have carried on holidays, and when I was strolling around central London for a week or so in late August 2014 (a colleague put me up in Piccadilly), nobody even noticed the thing whenever I wore it.

It lives in a small, discreet bag, and is mostly in my rucksack (that is, when I get to take it out with me); but it is beautifully balanced when around my neck - it just sits 'right'.

 

[kenoh]

Lovely post, and thank you for it.

As an aside, have you ever tried the legendary Noctilux?



To be honest, I seem to have become er, hauled in to the Leica way of life.

Back in 2009, my Nikon F100 - a great camera, but one that was somewhat uncomfortably heavy when strolling around old cities - was stolen from my suitcase en route to the caucasus while returning from leave.

At the time, I was working in the Caucasus for a few years, in a position that was also pretty well remunerated. Anyway, I debated switching to digital when I next returned home on leave, but instead went retro, and bought a used Leica R (the R7, which I still have), and the wonderful 35-70 Leica lens that came with it.

That sold me on the Leica world, and I love the look and form factor of the M, so when a M6 became available I decided to buy the body, and slowly take pleasure in adding lenses to it over time. Now that I have those lenses (a 90 Summarit has been put aside to be collected and paid for when fresh funds are available) it seems silly not to get a digital Leica when the time comes to switch to that format, as I already have some amazing lenses.



You mean @kenoh and @MacRy? No, they are kind enough to proffer some advice and suggestions to me. Anyway, I seem to be the person who needs a bit of help, at this stage….

I have tried the f1.0 version. Not had the guts to put the 0.95 version on. To be honest, I found it incredible in light gathering but a little too difficult to nail focus. Then sharpness wise, my 50 Lux knocks spots off it so couldnt really reconcile it in my head. I do like the look of the APO Summicron mind you but again, my luxes are not exactly leaving me gasping for more. It would just be a silly vanity purchase so I am abstaining .... for now....

That 90 is awesome though a bit of a trickster to focus... easy peasy on the sony. Got some gorgeous images of my daughters nativity play this past christmas with it.

Yes the M9 hangs nice over my shoulder. Doesnt get in the way but is there ready when I want it. I love the retro look of it too.

I always remember seeing pictures of explorers kit lahouts in magazines. Always had a battered leather notebook, RF camera, fountain pen, bottle of whiskey, compas and map. Those pictures always stuck with me and so the Leica is that camera so it is a special thing to me.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

I have tried the f1.0 version. Not had the guts to put the 0.95 version on. To be honest, I found it incredible in light gathering but a little too difficult to nail focus. Then sharpness wise, my 50 Lux knocks spots off it so couldnt really reconcile it in my head. I do like the look of the APO Summicron mind you but again, my luxes are not exactly leaving me gasping for more. It would just be a silly vanity purchase so I am abstaining .... for now....

That 90 is awesome though a bit of a trickster to focus... easy peasy on the sony. Got some gorgeous images of my daughters nativity play this past christmas with it.

Is it because of that extremely narrow depth of field when it is wide open? I gather than unless that lens has been calibrated with a camera - the camera it is supposed to be paired with - (by Leica) that it may not operate to its full potential.

Ah, so the 90 is a 'trickster' to focus. Hm. I had a choice of the 75 or the 90, and thought that the 90 might offer me more, ah, possibilities.

 

[kenoh]

Is it because of that extremely narrow depth of field when it is wide open? I gather than unless that lens has been calibrated with a camera - the camera it is supposed to be paired with - (by Leica) that it may not operate to its full potential.

Ah, so the 90 is a 'trickster' to focus. Hm. I had a choice of the 75 or the 90, and thought that the 90 might offer me more, ah, possibilities.

75 will be the same. It is due to the image and the RF patch. Smaller details to focus on makes it a bit of a trickster. Live view makes it a doddle so maybe you need a M240 afterall... see how I set that one up for you... you're welcome...

I think at may have been the case on the Noctilux but even at f5.6 amd f8 it just didnt feel like it was worth the cost - for me.

At f5.6 my lux was knocking spots off it. Saying that, the point of the Nocti is f1.0 or f0.95. And yes razor thin DoF gave everything a very specific look which was nice but not enough to make me hand over the plastic.

 

[Apple fanboy]

Yes, Leica tend to be the 'mortgage your kidney' gang. However, I have gotten all of my Leica equipment used from a very reputable authorised Leica dealer. This is because some Leica owners tend to be a bit anal about their stuff, so yes, it is possible to get it in extremely good condition.

And, as I am a great believer in deferred gratification, I am happy to wait a while for it, and enjoy it when I finally do manage to lay hands on it. But the light reading from those Summilux lenses are breath taking; it almost does away with needing flash, and indoors, natural light is usually more than adequate, especially if it is during daylight.

One of the things I love about the M6 is the small size, and retro look; it looks like something your grandfather might have carried on holidays, and when I was strolling around central London for a week or so in late August 2014 (a colleague put me up in Piccadilly), nobody even noticed the thing whenever I wore it.

It lives in a small, discreet bag, and is mostly in my rucksack (that is, when I get to take it out with me); but it is beautifully balanced when around my neck - it just sits 'right'.

Majority of my Nikon stuff was second hand through work. So I had plenty to choose from (so cherry picked the best). Otherwise it would have been my kidney and a lung! I'm a big strong guy, so a DSLR is fine for me. Plus I rarely try to combine photography with other activities. But for others I understand whilst a smaller lighter form factor could be desirable.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

75 will be the same. It is due to the image and the RF patch. Smaller details to focus on makes it a bit of a trickster. Live view makes it a doddle so maybe you need a M240 afterall... see how I set that one up for you... you're welcome...

I think at may have been the case on the Noctilux but even at f5.6 amd f8 it just didnt feel like it was worth the cost - for me.

At f5.6 my lux was knocking spots off it. Saying that, the point of the Nocti is f1.0 or f0.95. And yes razor thin DoF gave everything a very specific look which was nice but not enough to make me hand over the plastic.

If I told you that I had been offered one in superb condition - obviously, a used model, at the usual 'affordable' price for such a thing, would it surprise you? I remember thinking that the light readings were insane.

Interesting that you say that it is not as good at the other f stops as the Summicron or Summilux. The vendor (quell surprise) was arguing (strongly) that it was possibly even better…..

Majority of my Nikon stuff was second hand through work. So I had plenty to choose from (so cherry picked the best). Otherwise it would have been my kidney and a lung! I'm a big strong guy, so a DSLR is fine for me. Plus I rarely try to combine photography with other activities. But for others I understand whilst a smaller lighter form factor could be desirable.

Well, I mentioned my first SLR - the wonderful Pentax ME Super, which I loved. Some time later, (after another Pentax) I switched to Nikon, and my last Nikon had been a choice of the F80 (well regarded) or the F100. The latter came at a very good price (again, used and in superb condition) but - to be honest - even though it was a terrific camera, I found that I was looking for excuses to leave it at home as it was just uncomfortably heavy.

It was fine when I went out for a drive and just grabbed the camera for a few shots not too far from the car; but for the sort of sustained strolling in pedestrianised but antique city centres which I love, it was really too heavy to be comfortable. hence, my strong preference for something with the form factor and quality of my beloved Pentax ME Super, and the M6 pushes that button exceptionally well.

 

[kenoh]

Majority of my Nikon stuff was second hand through work. So I had plenty to choose from (so cherry picked the best). Otherwise it would have been my kidney and a lung! I'm a big strong guy, so a DSLR is fine for me. Plus I rarely try to combine photography with other activities. But for others I understand whilst a smaller lighter form factor could be desirable.

Each to their own and it adds variety. You have a great setup. My desire for small kit was borne out of carrying half the house with us when out with the little ones. Not we are moving back to not having to carry multiple changes of clothes and not needing buggies and all sorts then I am kind of settled in the smaller form factor.
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If I told you that I had been offered one in superb condition - obviously, a used model, at the usual 'affordable' price for such a thing, would it surprise you? I remember thinking that the light readings were insane.

Interesting that you say that it is not as good at the other f stops as the Summicron or Summilux. The vendor (quell surprise) was arguing (strongly) that it was possibly even better…..



Well, I mentioned my first SLR - the wonderful Pentax ME Super, which I loved. Some time later, (after another Pentax) I switched to Nikon, and my last Nikon had been a choice of the F80 (well regarded) or the F100. The latter came at a very good price (again, used and in superb condition) but - to be honest - even though it was a terrific camera, I found that I was looking for excuses to leave it at home as it was just uncomfortably heavy.

It was fine when I went out for a drive and just grabbed the camera for a few shots not too far from the car; but for the sort of sustained strolling in pedestrianised but antique city centres which I love, it was really too heavy to be comfortable. hence, my strong preference for something with the form factor and quality of my beloved Pentax ME Super, and the M6 pushes that button exceptionally well.

Nope definitely not as good in my opinion, and the guy in Red Dot told me outright don't bother. You have everything you need in your Summiluxes. He could have taken me for £4,600 but he chose not to. Saying that he knows I will be back for my next fix soon enough. I think the f0.95 is a marked step up from the f1.0

Yes the light gathering is amazing but at the cost of a small used family hatchback, I have renovations to complete first... :-(

Oh and it didnt really bother me, but it blocks the viewfinder a lot and it is really quite deceptively heavy. Neither particularly bother me. Makes me laugh when people comment on finder blockage on an RF. As long as the patch is clear, it makes no difference!


But it comes in a lovely box.