Is Leica Worth The $$$$ 

Watching this back a second time it’s evident that, in this era of do everything cameras, there are fewer photographers that are able to appreciate what the Leica M inspires, the “D” bodies in particular. When I switched to Sony from Canon several years ago I was enamored with the ridiculous AF algorithms, exposure zebras, etc. The camera did everything for me. Leica M returns me to my film days, when I had to think, and every shot mattered. Just two years ago I thought the M-D and M10-D were a silly proposition. Now, the M-D is the only M I use. It’s an evolution.

Just found your site, and watched this video. I’ve shot with everything, but primarily Nikon for 40+ years. I own a Leica CL system, and really like it. But got an m10-p with a 28cron and 50 lux. That’s all i use. It took me a bit to nail focus, and often, for walking around, just set at f8 and zone focus. I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. Truly simple. The last half of your video was music to my ears. I would say, once i took the plunge into Leica, and have swapped around a little, the resale value makes the cost differential less than i used to spend on film. Btw, recently visited Vietnam with my daughter - wish I’d known you were there before visiting!

Leica is amazing. I always lend my M3 to friends who wanted to try it out, and always get a free roll of film back because nobody remembered to take off the lens cap.

Great video. Very interesting. I have a q2 and am blown away by it. For the same reasons you discuss. I just love to shoot with it and it’s simplicity. Your photos are incredible.

Short answer: No. Long answer: If you enjoy the experience and can justify the price. Yes. But shooting Leica won't make anyone a better photographer, nor necessarily produce better images.

Hey Justin. Can you please talk about how you insure your equipment against theft or damage. Thank you.

Everything you said justifies the purchase of any cheap camera (if you want the minimalism DSLR can't offer, there's the a7c or even Fuji if you're into the retro style), but it doesn't justify the purchase of 2 bodies for 12k

Great video. You explain why Leicas work for you from the perspective of how they allow you to do your work with the least ‘interference’ possible which is what really matters. As you say, when you’re shooting professionally there are so many factors to consider that you need cameras to get out of the way and let you focus on all the other stuff apart from gear. shoot sport for a living and although it’s different to what you do, the same principles apply. I’m not a Leica guy, but after watching your video I totally get why you are.

Another way to look at the cost, if you own this camera for 3 years (156 weeks), it will cost approx. $52.00 a week. If you intend to sell it, then the 'rental' cost is about half or more as Leica's second hand value is usually great.

Just about everything you said is the same logic and self-convincing I used to buy a $300, 15 year old, 12 megapixel Canon 5D classic. The simple, minimalistic and straightforward menu system is calming. Image quality straight out of camera is terrific. Battery life is awesome. Throw on some vintage m42 glass! It's great. Twelve big megapixels seem more than enough. So everything you said makes perfect sense.

I’m extremely fortunate in that I bought my Leica lenses new just before the millennium. They were merely expensive then as opposed to eye watering.

I really like the way you pointed out that when you’re out shooting, your energy is focused on the environment/subject(s) and not on the camera and its settings. Btw, I love your office space. I would love to hear more about why you chose Hanoi as your base. Thanks as always 👏🏾

I really like your videos. As an autistic adult getting into photography and trying to learn. What i like most is that you don’t use music and you keep it very simple. I don’t have a Leica camera but i just like sit down after my kids are gone to bed and learn about photography. Keep up the great videos. Love from Ireland 🇮🇪

Justin - Great video (even without a blue or orange light on a shelf behind you!). I have been shooting Leica M digital cameras for years now. About 45 years ago, I fell in love with photography using a Pentax K1000 - it had an aperture ring, shutter speed dial, you set the ASA based on the film you were shooting, and it had a meter that was a simple needle (if it was pointing up you were overexposed, down you were underexposed). From there, I moved to Nikons (F3, F5, and then D300, and D4). Digital cameras work, but the experience for me was distracting. For many of the reasons you articulated so very well, I transitioned to Leica M bodies (after considering a few of Fujiflim's offerings). I never looked back. They work for me. I love them. They may not work for someone else and they may hate them - no big deal. I shoot more now in a month than I did in a year when shooting DSLRs - and I enjoy every minute of it. That's why I shoot them. End of story ... now go get you some blue lights and a shelf (and a Black Pro Mist filter).

I’ve shot whole weddings with one Leica body and one lens. And, like you, I got one for personal use, but it wound up as my main for professional use.

Nicely presented. I agree with everything. It always makes me want to take photos and I never get bored with it.

Watching Leica videos don’t cost me a thing. I’ll do it over and over again!

You are clearly a very accomplished photographer and the animal pictures really struck a chord with me. I use Leica m for landscapes, obviously an unusual choice, but I put simplicity and reliability above all else. People chase the latest camera like they chase the latest phone, all suckered in by the marketing hype.

I came across this video whilst browsing RU-vid. - I came from a world of Canon 5Ds, via Fuji XT to Leica M240 then M10. I also have the awesome Q. As you say all you need to set the ISO, Shutter speed and Aperture - that's all. Now I've found your channel I am going to watch them all. Thanks Justin

My change came about thanks to a very generous gift from my younger brother. We'd both grown up shooting and processing our own B&W film from the late 70's onwards with both of us initially using Nikon FMs when they came out. Over the years my brother stuck withes and I ended up with a Sony A7RM3 which I spent most of my time menu diving. All my life I'd harped on about wanting a Leica and how I missed the simplicity of the old FM so he bought me an M10! Since then the Sony is hardly ever used, a Leica M2 has been added and when people ask me why I'm shooting Leica instead of the Sony I just reply "cos just picking it up makes me smile." I've even stopped metering now, preferring to use sunny 16 instead, I find it extremely accurate even indoors and using it lets you understand and get to know the light around you.

Excellent points made in this video. I sold all my mirrored Nikon equipment to go mirrorless with the Sony ecosystem. Now I think I’m going to sell my Sony equipment to go into Leica. I’m really interested in the Leica Q2 monochrome.

I was offered a Leica M3 Double Stroke with a 35mm f1.4 Summilux for a significant discount from a fellow photographer who needed cash fast. I used it over a trial weekend and passed on it and for the same money bought a killer couple of newly released Nikon FM2 bodies and lenses. I don't regret that decision at all.

John, Thanks for sharing your experiences with Leica...glad to find your channel. I am an amateur photographer and being retired travel plenty, {except covid stopped our traveling) We got out of Venice/Milan Jan 22, 2020, when I read about the pandemic, in that travel I carried an M10 and Sony A7RIV. I started carrying Leica in 1970, with a used CIII, then paired with with Voightlander and then a Mamiya rangefinders, the CIII had color slides while the other camera had Panx or Trix. Then I shifted to Nikkormat and Leica M3, late 80s to Nikon electronic shutter and 2000 to Canon DSLRs, the pair by 2010 were the 5D2 and 7D, made,first day order to Sony A7R 6 years ago and to the Leica M10 in 2017, getting my copy in June, upgraded the Sony to the A7R4 August of 2019. While on lockdown, I find that I carry the M10 around my city leaving the A7RIV at home. Looking forward to traveling again with the Leica M10, the 50 yr old Elmarit 28 from the M3, stays most of the time (may get a newer 35 mm) , with 50mm, 90mm (seldom do I use the 135, and Voightlander 15) as the main camera, maybe just bring the smaller classic A7R as backup with THE 16-35 mm. The A7RIV with long lenses will be for airshows, astrophotography, etc. Subscribed to your channel.

Try Fuji. It's even easier to use. I have both Leica and Fuji and I actually prefer to use the Fuji, though in the end I prefer the images from my SL/Voigtlander combo. They just work together so well and produce characterful images. But for someone who likes simplicity Fuji is the best option.

Leica is a luxury item. Influencers buy it to look cool. I'm a photographer and want to own one but now it's not the time.

I liked your why, and when you said: "this thing takes photos". Turn on, then three steps: iso, aperture, shutter speed, MF, and then shutter button. I think you talking about being a photographer. That's how I was in love when I started whit my grandfather's old camera a Zeiss Icon.

Justin: You are speaking about the camera as a tool, I have mirrorless because can use the vintage lenses of Canon, Voightlander, and many German Zebra on my body. I have many M Mount lenses and love the rangefinder glass for the color and tactile input, you think about your work... I am pleased that there is a person half my age , I am 60 ...that understands the knowing of the tactile and human touch and input photography. Yes: most people are caught in the great chase of ever evolving gear. I choose a different path.

It's true that I didn't really appreciate the allure of a Leica until I got my hands on one and started using it. All you need to do is hold it in your hands and focus with the viewfinder to respect the design and quality. I'm not very excited about the picture quality of my M10, but it's useable. The dynamic range is narrow and it's very easy to blow highlights. I set it at -1 EV, and that works for quick grab-and-go shooting. I'm not willing to spend more than $5000 on any camera though.

The only limitation the M has is the 135. Other then that it’s only in your head. I have always compared my gear to the photographers of the old days were they carried plates around and produced iconic images. If you know what you want to shoot you can. I shoot sport with it , where’s the issue? Dial it in and off you go. You don’t need 600mm. 90 is just fine just learn to anticipate and how to get close no matter what. I got a few lenses since they come out for need and purpose but use 24 as standard and 80% workhorse. That means 1.5m is what’s on the scale, around that I’ll dial in what needs to match that but that parameter is solid. Crazy? Nope, experience! Good luck for the next projects Juzzy

Some honest and very valid arguments. Your video is so much better than the typical youtube photographer's Leica video: "The Leica, it has magic, you have to experience it to believe it, it takes pictures that no other camera can, it instantly makes you a better photographer..."

I agree with all of these opinions. I was dissatisfied with other systems. They didn’t inspire me. I felt buried under options. I bought a second hand M10 (with my wife’s blessing) knowing if it didn’t agree I could on sell for very little loss if any. I love 1) having no settings I don’t need 2) creating a relationship with a camera that I plan on using for 5-10 years 3) I love 50mm and this is the ideal body for that focal length IMHO. I’m lucky to have the means and live in a city with a good used market.

Thank you Justin, you hit the proverbial nail on the head. It's all about fit and having the right tool (for each of us) for the job. At some point, I will pick up an M-10 variant, more because I have always wanted a Leica than anything else, having started with my dad's Agfa Ambi Silette and three lenses. I know that it won't replace my Olympus M43 kit that I use for commercial, portrait and motorsports, but it doesn't need to. A craftsman is one who uses his (or hers) tools to their best advantage, and you do an amazing job! Thanks for the continuing inspiration!

Honestly, I’m committed enough to photography to consider Leica… and I’ve certainly had my share of manual cameras before (including Hasselblad). But in recent years I’ve come to the conclusion that tech like IBIS really contributes to critical sharpness of images in the low light settings I favour. I just can’t see the cost/benefit from Leica glass, given that I’d never achieve its full benefit in these scenarios.

I like your analysis. In photography always things that works for someone they just don’t works for another one. The thing is sometimes we forget to use what makes us more productive and happy for something that we believe (for wrong) as better. For me Leica has lost its old character. Today it’s hard for anyone to pay so much money for a camera that falls behind in almost every single way even from entry level full frame bodies. I mean, it doesn’t makes sense. Still, I understand your need for simplicity. But I will drop another thought to the table; what if Leica (say M10 or even SL2) was priced equally to the rival cameras (Sony, Nikon, Canon) at about 2000-3000$? In my opinion, it would have been destroyed. And, I know, the lenses has a character, the build quality is stellar and the ergonomics are fine, but nowadays every high end camera is built well, all pro level lenses (especially Canon L series) has amazing sharpness and color rendition and their ergonomics are great, and the most important, for less than half the price! So, no, the price by itself is not the only problem for the most people. The key thing is the fact that Leica sees all photographers as documentary or street photographers. That’s maybe good for Leica because anyway has its audience but for the rest of us (landscape, wildlife or even hobbyists) there are better options.

As a Leica shooter on both film and digital, I agree with everything you say except for the hassle of post production with film. If you have a lab you like, like Richard Photo Lab in LA, there is no post; all you do is cull the scans you get back and tweak a bit if necessary. They’ll work with you to develop a scan profile (or you can use another photographer’s profile) and deliver scans that are consistent to it. Voila-no post!

I agree 100% with you. More than 50 years ago, I started with a Minolta SRT 101 with a 57/1.7 and added on a 28/2.8 to later. When I became professional, I used the Minoltas for 30 years (still have them), but now I'm on an M-P240 with the 50 LUX and a Q for wide angle. That works for me, as your set-up works for you. I can pull out some R-lenses, but that's less than once a month. Press photography is to get close to your subject.

You right about simplicity, I have a brand that has more buttons that I need it, I love Leica and I am saving money for the LS2 thanks bro for sharing

I was surprised you didn’t mention that Leica bodies and lenses retain their value for longer than other brands so whilst they are a large up front cost you can recover more of that if and when the time comes, provided of course you treat it kindly.

You know what else isn’t weighing me down? My $400 used Fuji Xe2 with a 27mm f2.8. It’s a wonderful combo, and incredibly affordable (compared to these)

Why Leica... Less is more. Slows you down (many non-Leica users don't get this one) Just love your "review" or, to be accurate, tips on optimising the Leicas to one's personal style. Thanks for this video; very useful to Leica newbies or non-newbies who've laid off shooting those Leicas for a while like me.

I did go into a Leica store, I played with the M11. It felt solid and good in hand. I also popped in my own SD card and made a few shots for assessment later at home. I got home and to be brutally honest, the files delivered nothing more that a sony, canon, fuji or nikon could deliver. Yes it was well built, but the files were honestly, nothing special. They were not $13,000 AUD worth of image quality. Can I afford one, hell yeah, I can afford several, but the image quality is what compelled me to say no and leave it. It didnt technically deliver anything special. But.........if i decided to retire and just have one camera for my day to day photography, YES, I would probably purchase the M11 and couple of lenses. It's a camera to be enjoyed in the moment and not as a tool in the toolbox like my work cameras. Its a bit like a women's handbag. Any handbag does the job, but my wife always says she wants. YSL, Gucci bag because they are a status symbol. LOL, I tell her to buy one but she always stops and says that a bag is a bag and a cheaper bag does the same job.

The build on my used M10 is just amazing, but I'm treating very carefully. How robust have your digital M Leicas been, specifically regarding servicing and repairs?

I've been shooting with Nikon DSLRs for many years, always using them much the same way I used (and continue to use) my Nikon FE and FM2 and Leica M6 film bodies - that is, in a very basic, simple manner, in manual or aperture priority mode, rarely using the menu and rarely chimping, all allowing me to remain 100% focused on the subject and the lighting. In other words, I use my current digital cameras much the same way I use my old film cameras - relying pretty much solely on the four basic image making adjustments - shutter speed, aperture, ISO (ASA), and focus (manual or auto). Just because the bells and whistles of modern cameras are there, it doesn't mean you ever have to use them - but can do so if the need ever arises (which for me is probably about 1% of the time). Where technology really comes into play for me is in processing my raw files - but even that I keep to a minimum (abiding by photojournalism norms). I suppose for many the biggest challenge would be to develop the self-discipline to resist using all the technology made available with today's cameras - as they might say: "Why use it? Because it's there." I suppose for them, something like the M10-D might be necessary. But the M10-D cheats, too, with its available connectivity and ability to access its menus. Perhaps best go with the Leica M-D (type 262), which does not have connectivity or menus - a true film-like digital camera.

Hey, Justin, yes, you are right. The M cameras are simple, rugged, well made and fun. Yes, I do put a lens on it and spend the day with that lens/camera combo. I do not use the Leica lenses as they are just too steep. I like the CV series which are quite good but a little too bright. I have a couple of old KMZ Jupiter 8's ('51 and '57) which have the Sonnar look of a more subdued and solid color and a Cooke Amotal for the "Cooke Look" wide open and good color when not. But back to your premise, yes, simple, grab the camera with a good 50 on it and go out and shoot. Remember the Jesuit motto of learning, "Repititio, repititio, repititio." The Canon LTM 28mm f/2.8 is also sweet. I wish we could BS over some good ca phe nau. Cheers and stay healthy.

After hearing about the Leica stuff for a few years I finally broke down and rented the Q2 Monochrom...hands down the best shooting experience I have ever had. Definitely has me want to shoot more Leica and more pure BW. Great video.

Totally get it Justin. Thanks for making the point that content, ideas and many more things matters than the fancy tech. Your approach to photographing and choosing your tools goes beyond it’s Leica or any other brands.

Really a great video Justin! I can understand your love to these beautiful M cameras. You look through the viewfinder, you hold it in your hands and you love it immediately. I use the M10-D for most of my portraiture work and it works very good. Maybe not every photo is perfect, but I am overwhelmed by the results. Keep on going…..

The beauty of a 50MP camera is the ability to crop down and still get a high quality image.

As a new Leica shooter with a M240 and small primes I love the simpicity of the system and operation during use. I would like to pickup an M-D in the near future. Great video...

Last year I decided to move in that direction and bought a Voigtländer Ultron 40mm for my Nikon D750 (my Leica substitute). That lens exceeded my expectation and I have hardly mounted another lens on that camera body since I got that gem. This has made my photographic experience more simplistic and enjoyable.

I have a ‘lowly’ TL2 with the 23mm f2 and it’s a complete dream to use. I’ve had all sorts of cameras from old film Canon F1’s to Pentax k1000’s, etc. I currently have Pentax k1ll and k01 in my gear bag, but I constantly find myself reaching for the TL2. Just something so relaxing and carefree when using it instead of feeling like I “have” to work hard for whatever I’m Doing. I consider my Pentax’s as my work horses. My leica’s (have an x2 also) are my fashion cameras. There’s just something that makes it feel like the pictures just came from some GQ or ELLE shoot. Like you said, they make me also feel like I can just slow down and focus on the things that made me fall in love with photography so many years ago. The thing with the prices…I used to think that Leica are expensive. There’s no doubts about it. They ARE. But then I started thinking about it…most people that buy Leica equipment keep them for life, or for many years at a minimum. How much money would people spend that typically go buy the newest, latest greatest Sony, Canikon, etc setups every other year? In the end, it equals out or is actually cheaper to just pay up front and get the Leica. EDIT- I just got to the part of your video where you took the words right out of my mouth about the updates, etc lol. Seems we’re on the the same page with that

10:37- Isn't that just a lesson to be happy with what you have and to stop chasing the latest thing? Why would you feel compelled to keep upgrading a $3k Nikon, but not an $8k Leica? Either way, camera spec's are getting better every day, and I'm sure Leica cameras are no different. What about the Leica imbues you with the inner peace to reject consumer culture? Seems like a weak argument.

This video expresses very well the practical benefits of Leica and after wasting an enormous amount of money on other systems I now have, for me, my final perfect camera. I use a Leica Q, the most economical way into the Leica system, for street and architecture I can live with the 28mm lens and I love the quality and simplicity. I also have a Leica c-lux, for occasional architectural details, but with its overly complicated Panasonic menu and lack of DNG raw, there is no way that it even remotely resembles a real Leica, except for the red dot, which I cover up anyway.

You nailed it! I bought an M3 in 1967 and it was used but like new with a 50mm Summilux. Sadly I sold it and built up a Leicaflex outfit. Had I kept it I could now sell it for what I paid in real terms. Imagine - I could have owned a Leica for 50+ years for free! I wish Nikon etc would bring out a Digital camera with No movie, No menu system, limited ISO with the possibility of going down to 10 with good quality, manual focusing and aperture setting but good TTL Spot metering and solid build. A dream of course as no manufacturer would take the risk.

Low key area is fine Justin....as a short time Vietnam expat, your room is perfect.

I don’t understand shooting manual mode. Maybe with an EVF it’s better for seeing your exposure in real time. But I can put my Nikon dslr in manual mode and shoot with the exact same process for not nearly the cost. I can have that simplicity. Also what’s more simple than putting your camera in program mode? That takes away all distractions. I shoot in program mode and use bracketing to get three pictures with different exposure levels to choose from. I’m not a professional at all but that’s how I have been taking photos

I'm using a Leica a bit below in the heirarchy from your camera. But the control is amazing, the build quality is amazing, and I love the photos and videos I get. It's also much more small and portable than my "good" camera. I once had a Panasonic equivalent of the same camera. The differences were obvious in the quality and the ease of use. The Panasonic is more usable remotely, but that is its only advantage.

'Leica' is shorthand for 'Leitz Camera' and was traditionally used for the camera division of Ernst Leitz (Wetzlar). I've not moved to Leica cameras yet but I've owned a couple of top-of-the-range Leitz/Leica binoculars for over 30 years. My first bins are a pair of Leitz Trinovid 10x40 BAN (from 1988) that are still in excellent condition and as sharp as a razor. My second pair are the equally impressive Leica Ultravid 10x42 HD (from 2009). If the camera lens made by this company are as excellent as their binoculars then I can't see how any other make can beat them.

I appreciate your honesty. I've said similar things on forums and gotten savaged by those who say just don't use the features. As you say, it's not that simple to get a simpler experience.

I owned a near mint M4 for a while (sold it as I needed one with a 0.58 finder since I wear glasses) and as someone who owns top of the range Nikon equipment and a Hasselblad 501c/m I can honestly say that the Leica was the most beautiful piece of engineering I have ever held. The tension of the winder and shutter was as if it had come off the line yesterday and not 50 years ago! Everything about it - the build and feel is just perfect.

Back in the day's of film, my first SLR was the Pentax K-1000.. A nice full frame Camera.. Then I bought an R-3 mot, have the 90mm, 50mm and my favorite 24mm f2.8.. Sold the R3 body and moved up to the R8 body, still pull it out and shoot a roll or two from time to time.. I will never get rid of it..

I'm a photographer that uses $100 LG cell phone camera. I want a Leica. But I can't make the mental leap from $100 to $10,000.

Great video. Thank you. I’m still astonished of how many fall into the “I’ve gotta have a M6”. I have both the M6 and M4-2 and find the M4-2 superior.

The reasons you give are the same reasons I use a Fujifilm X-Pro3. The X-Pro3 does have a screen, but it folds, face-in, into the back of the camera. So the camera back is blank like a film camera. The Fuji lenses are auto/manual focus. But there are manual-only lenses available from other manufacturers. So, you can use the Fujifilm X-Pro3 much like the Leica, but it costs less than $2000.

Doesn’t really matter. The vast majority of people can’t afford Leica anyway. Even professionals. I took one for a spin once and didn’t see what was so special about it. The body was blocky, heavy and just not easy to hold, and I hated the focussing system. I’m sure it has something going for it, I just don’t see it, let alone for the price.

I shot a wedding with a Leica. it was quite a challenge but thought i was more comfortable with my camera than i would be with a rented sony. Images turned out really good, of course with some margin to improve but my client was really happy with the results.

Thanks Justin for the great video. I came here to be convinced to buy a Leica :) I really like Leica M cameras because of their form factor and simplicity - as you mentioned. They are perfect cameras for my application (street photography) as well, but at the same time, Leica's prices are unjustifiably high for no apparent reasons! The fact that Leica has less features than other cameras is a very important reason that it has to be cheaper because it takes less material, resources, research and technology to manufacture but it is insanely more expensive than others. I am all for simplicity. When I take my camera out, all the bells & whistles are turned off on my camera. I don't use any of those features just to simplify my photography but if I really need any of those features, then I can turn them back on with no charge and my camera is still cheaper than Leica - it was hell a lot cheaper when it was brand new let alone now. I also haven't upgraded my 2 cameras for the last 5 years - I might get a mirrorless at some point and that's only for the quieter shutter sound but otherwise my Nikon D7200 is still rocking with no issues. Plus, because it is not expensive at all, I don't feel like I have to be precious about it and can put it through hell if I need to. If it is pouring down but I see a photo opportunity, then I take my camera out and take the picture without being worried about the camera and cost also it has a great weather sealing which helps but even if it dies, then no big deal. It won't cost me much to replace (mind you my D7200 has been soaked with ocean water 3 times and it's got even salt crystals inside the viewfinder but it is still working with no issues). But that's not the same case with most Leica cameras. They are expensive and most don't even have proper weather sealing which isn't about simplicity or form factor. (I hear M11 has weather sealing but if I'm not mistaken M11 is the only M camera that has weather sealing.) Anyway, I'd love to hear your comments on that :)

You did a good job articulating the indescribable 'vapor' that i get when I pick up an 'M' series. I'm by no means a gearhead, never heard of a 10d until just now. I love the idea of a no-screen digital. Yes, for the surprise factor but more importantly: it's one less thing to distract me from flow. Someone told me it's called 'chimping' when you're constantly checking the screen?I think back to my early days in photography where I had exactly one camera (A Contax 137(?) with a 50mm 1.7 T* Zeiss) Very similar control set up as your 'M' series. I distinctly recall shooting some future pro-skateboarders at the old 'Pipeline' in Upland, CA. I would survey the area, set a baseline (f2.8@1000) and as I would shoot I would adjust my exposures on the fly just by the feel of the clicks. 95% of my concentration was composition because I 100% trusted my camera, Leica gives me that same comfortable, trusting feel. $8000 is def not chump change but when you get portfolio quality shots it doesn't take long for that camera to pay for itself and then some! Admittedly my Fujifilm has lots of cool things it can do, but it also took about a year before I felt I had a comprehensive understanding of ALMOST all its features. And as I explained to someone who is still in the learning curve, your camera needs to only do THREE things, set the shutter speed, set the aperture and focus. Get the right combo f-stop and shutter speed and you're good! While I was getting my BFA at ArtCenter we had an old school SOB lab tech, Archie Ferrante, who would be in the lab to remind us that we didn't know squat and that his dog could process film better than we could. Part of the whole ArtCenter credo 'break you down before building you up' boot camp way of teaching. When lecturing about pricing and costs he often told us 'film is cheap, images are not' Mind you this was when digital files were still measured in KB! And when you hit the shutter you tended to put a bit more thought into the image because it literally cost money every time! All this to say, there is something intangible about a Leica that sets it apart, and you can count pixels 'till your eyeballs dry up and fall from the sockets, do hyper-radon spectral gamma inversion scope assessment studies(like that?😜)but after the moment has passed, the once in a lifetime image is gone do you look at your camera and say 'I hope I got that' or do you KNOW you got it. You're a little hipster for my tastes but once I realized you aren't just playing pretend I'm happy I gave you a chance and subscribed.

Superb photos and good analytical video on my favorite brand. I began with Leica because 90 years ago there was nothing else that would produce the contrast available from the rare earth components of the German lenses. This was many decades before anyone talked about "systems" or "workflow." The marketers insist that I should upgrade my amazing first generation 35mm Summicron by breaking the bank for the current Apo Summicron. This would not offer any remarkable improvement to my photos. It would of course sustain the incomes of the marketers. This seems to be the unspoken intention behind the majority of photo vids on RU-vid. This one is a happy exception.

you talked about the "update" aspect of every major camera brand. That's definetly a thing that the camera industry wants you to think. The market is shrinking dramatically thanks to smartphones, each year less and less cameras are sold, so it makes sense that their marketing strategies are getting more and more agressive. But really, even if you do use thos kind of cameras, like Canons, Nikon, Sonys, Fujis,... If you know what your needs are, you really can avoid those marketing techniques. For example, I'm a photographer that do landscapes, a good friend of mine is doing that too. We both have sold prints to people, we both are recognized (A tiny bit, locally) for the pictures that we take. We both got question from various people about gear, and most people were assumong that since we were photographers, whe might had expensive gear and that's why the pictures looked that good. Most people are dissapointed that I shoot with a Fuji X-T1 from 2014, and that my friend shoots with a Canon 700D from 2013. The "gear doesn't matter" is rather false in most cases, but the gear in question varies from people to people. Would I be a good sports photographer with my old X-T1? Hell no, the AF is terrible for that. Does it work for the shots I take? Sure do. The "gear doesn't matter" saying would better be "take gear that fits your needs rather than the gear that get the best spec sheet"

I like your thought processes.

Its actually pretty reasonable when you consider the cost of literally anything nowadays. Id rather spend $10k on a Leica than pay $800-1000 a month for a car that will depreciate faster than heck. Im looking at the Q system but can't decide between version 1 or 2. I dont need 24 megapixels let alone 47. Based on ebay's prices they hold there value incredibly well so from a value standpoint Id say they are a better purchase than something like Fuji which is obsolete because they constantly have sales that destroy its secondary value. If you guys have an opinion about Q vs Q2 id love to consider it. Looks like $3000 for used Q or $5000 for new Q2. Cheers.

11:02 thing is you don’t need to upgrade those other cameras either. unless you actually need the features (eg 8k video) in which case the leica wont work anyway) no debate about the build quality but…

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Leica, worth it or not for me?

Great video upload... and I am so glad you made the point about cost effectiveness....

Leica changed the way that documentary photography was done. I have an old double-wind M3 and a Pentax SV the ergonomics are almost the same. The stripped down nature means I see the world through the viewfinder and capture the moments as they come up with those cameras. There is nothing except my mind’s eye, my eye and the camera. That M10 is wonderfully old school. It leaves the viewing of images as something that happens later and keeps the mind’s eye, my eye and the camera together making images. The modern way has the final image too close to the image capture and muddying the thought processes. I understand the zen quality of simple gear. Most cameras are as good as each other. The images are made in post production. Build quality and longevity in a tool are priceless. Your choices are utterly valid.

Excellent debate, Justin. A clear set of reasons why it works for you, and quite possibly others. Have just embarked on my Leica journey, I have really enjoyed the simplicity and renewed focus I have on making photos. Not to mention the excellent photos the M body produces!

People seem to have a really hard time understanding that declutter is actually really useful in photography. They get it for a room in their home, but not a creative tool- not for their own mind. There's always that same comment: you can just do the same thing with any camera. One, that's not true. Two, if the right camera for the way you work exists... use it? Other than formatting my memory card, I haven't went into the menu system on my M240 more than 3 times since I bought it. I use one button on the body- and that's for ISO. Why on earth would I want a Sony with 20 external buttons and dials and 12 menu pages of who-the-hell-knows-what? It's obvious if one is not busy trying to look past it.

I have a Nikon Z system, but have developed a “Leica Itch.” You, sir, are not helping. My wife is going to be soooo pissed with you.

Like you i used many brands out there and my answer is i never had the same feeling shooting any camera like Leica and i just love it absolutely love it and you can’t put a price on that

Same reasons I like my Fujifilm X-pro3. It is enough, could last a lifetime and the rest is my art. I don't think that would change buying an $8K camera body, which is ridiculous for most normal humans.

I'm loving Justin's humility and modesty at 17:45min when he remarks rather aptly - 'So you pick up the latest Sony, Canon, Leica' and it won't make you a better photographer. Big difference though Justin. Dead right. But if you're a shyte photographer, the Leica will 'expose' that deficiency unlike any of the others that have 'Auto'. No skill, no Leica. Just being honest because you seem to forget that many have no idea when given the task of manually exposing their own ISO, Shutter speed and Aperture exposure.

um it's a slow process when you have too zone focus. i'm lately shooting from a moving car, and it's hard. i'm not a slow down type of person, i'm more a whip it out fast, snap the moment and act like i never shot anymore. i understand thinking before the shot, and slowly focusing manually at what you want, and be noticed is scary. this isn't a concert camera.

I found you through your "Hasselblad X1D System | A Professional's Review" video and appreciate your presentation and content. Subscribed. Slapped the like button. Smashed the notification bell. Commented. Doing my part.

Leica cameras are amazing, I had a M6 when still doing film and loved it, but the current Leica digital cameras are priced as luxury items… It just becomes too impractical, especially when looking at mirror less camera offerings from Fuji.

I hear you about forcing simplicity to make you better. I cut my teeth on a Contax RTS3 and AX and CZ manual lenses - Kodachromes, ASA 25 / 64. Made my work excellent. Then digital came in. I got a Canon 5D2 and i had the habits of good photography still in me. But the thing is, it becomes too easy. I don't have to think and I get sloppy, no longer costs me $1 a slide. But the Canon had flaws especially in low light - anything above 640, forget it. Video was revolutionary under ISO 640, sound was mehhh. To get really good video, I bought as Sony FS100 and it was dedicated to video and the results were pretty darned good - as long as I have good glass - it means everything on that camera.. Then I got a Sony A7iii. A game changer. Astonishingly good. 24 mpx, same as Leica and Canon (21). Video is cinema quality and 120fps. audio is really good, but a dedicated Sound Devices MixPre6 takes it to professional level. The still shots are spectacular - why? Glass! Here's the thing, I have to force myself to slow down. I don't need a Leica to do that. Hell, I can go back to Contax / film to perk up my techniques. The reality, is the photographer and discipline. Carry a tri-pod. THAT will force you slow down and think. Would I go back to Canon 5D2? Nope. because Sony is way way ahead in every way. Can it compare to a Leica? I bet it does equal to or better, honestly - because I have great glass, vintage CZ lenses from the Contax N series as well as my CZ lenses. Glass is everything. The N series is no comparison. The Sony offers so much - don't have to use all the features, but Leica /Sony direct comparison, at the end of the day, I bet you will not be able to tell the difference. But I have lots of extras should I want them all at 1/4 the cost. And I hear the Sony A7iv is even better! Or the A7Siii or the A1 the flagship. Leica just does not have the same feature set. Would I spend 4x the money for Leica? Hell no. To get great shots, means I have to have mental discipline to slow down and work the shot. That is not a function of camera. It is a function of shooter. My thoughts.

I dig this. Although I do my work on Nikon full frame camera's (7 years old) I want to buy a Fuji X100V for the same reason. Can't afford Leica but it's exactly what Justin says: ISO, Shutter, Aperture; that's all you need and you want it on dials on top of the camera, A on the lens. I rarely use all the buttons on my Nikon's, mostly they get pressed by accident.

I totally agree with your assessment of Leica cameras. I have had a Leica M4 system that I used for many years for performance photography, because it was very quiet and of course because it was sharp as a tack. I transitioned to digital format quite some time ago and at the time Leica was not making a digital camera. I did search for an adaptor that would let me use my Leica lenses with my Nikon bodies to no avail. Recently I discovered a new Kickstarter campaign featuring digital backs that can be used on Leicas. I am anxiously awaiting the delivery of this back so I can once again use my beloved Leicas.

Great video .. Justin I let all my Nikon kit go in 2015 .. now I’m a happy Leica user .. I wear it everyday .. .. one camera one lens … way to go ! … IMHO

Exactly! I couldn't have said it any clearer: for me the Leica Msystem is about simplicity of the interface, and the focus that allows me to have on my subject. It's my favorite camera to shoot (including professionally) if I can get away with it ;-) I do shoot GFX too if I want the megapixels, and I'll have to add a fast camera for shooting dance performances with long(ish) lenses, but that's a necessary evil. My heart lies with the M.

I got a Cl a few weeks ago and I love it… working with black and white.. Got a m42 adapter and loving using it with vintage lenses… yipee..

Still shooting a Leica M3 SS, M6TTL and M7. Shooting the poor mans Leica, Fuji Xpro1 and Xpro3. Saving up for a used Leica Monochrome. B&W is my favorite way to shoot.

Noticed your photo on a postcard at the Las Vegas Leica store. Good job.

Some people will hate this but it does make a difference, I have been shooting jobs since I started with the M9's, I now have two SL's also and use with M lenses mainly. The image quality is different, just last week a photographer here sent me some images asking if they were mine as a client had asked him to replicate the look of the portraits, he said he recognised the look of the images to be mine..I am ready to sell all my Canon gear super cheap..just need a Leica 400 2.8 and I am 100% ready to keep one system ( maybe keep my Sony A9's ). I have Canon and Sony Kit..and shot Nikon when I was shooting Analog for a living..so 23 years of working...I hope I know a little by now..I bought the 75 1.2 this year..I got to tell you...that is one crazy lens...now i don't even use my .95..

A like from Vietnam. I don't have any Leica and never used this brand before, maybe I will try it in the future.

As for price - I was on a Leica workshop in Manchester UK not long after the bombing at the Aria Grande Concert. We were sent out to shoot and a few shops down from the Leica store was the Bang and Olufsen store. I walked in just to look at their EarPods as I was looking at the display down came an opaque screen. An assistant came towards me asking "can I help you" in a suspicious manner (TBF I had long beard, dressed in jeans and T-Shirt). Obviously they expected me to run off with a load of Bang Olufsen gear. When I turned towards him he saw the camera around my neck and his attitude completely changed - It was my "Pretty Woman"moment

Simplicity is really the most difficult step to do and to embrace, that´s why the vast majority doesn´t get it... and it is in every player of this industry, from brands to the end user.

I totally get the whole concept, but never really put into words like you did. I shoot a M10P and M9M, with 50 Summicron, 75 Summarit and 90 Summacron (I tend to shoot more normal to mid tele with 50 being my go to focal length). I also shoot with a Olympus EM1X with al the bells and whistles but hardly ever use any of the advanced features and often hate the quality of the M43 image compare to the full Frame M10P or M9M image. Most of my shooting is environmental boudoir portraiture, art nude and indoor boudoir, all using natural light. The simplicity and absolute reliability of the system is why I love it. I just hate the cost of glass lol, which is why I use Chinese lenses as well.

Greatest leica sharing on youtube，every one considering leica need wtaching this video！

Boy, do I feel ya brother. Every word. Perhaps it comes from being a certain age. From a time when we shot once-in-a-lifetime events on film, with totally manual cameras, in my case, the Hasselblad 500 Series (aka V-Series). I found your excellent channel months ago while researching the M10-D. Still want one, but would never pay $8K. When you look down at a LEICA rangefinder, it's all there; Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO and Manual Focus. It is a thinking man's camera for creating thoughtful, powerful images.