Leica M11: 60 Megapixel Maximum M (and Why I’m Buying One)
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- Опубліковано 2 жов 2024
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Contents
0:42 Cold Open
0:52 The Bottom Line
02:12 Sample Images/Montage
03:18 Why An M?
05:04 Why the M11 in Particular?
11:09 Nits
13:24 What Does This Mean for You?
15:52 Buying Advice
18:05 Competitive Alternatives
18:45 Wrap-Up
20:09 Another Amazing Claudia Video Sequence
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This is something worth working towards and saving for. Hugh, I've always enjoyed your videos but this one is top notch. The music, your dialogue, the imagery, and the edit are all on point!
🙏🏻😊🖖🏻
Imagine the next 5 years… the ASSAULT of m11 limited editions. God help us!
Saving my coins as I’m typing.
@@rumporridge1 😊💯🖖🏻
@@TheVFXbyArt I want the Billie Eilish commemorative lens set, in Pink Ostrich leather, with a rainbow strap. Then I'll buy :)
Anytime there’s a new Leica, regardless of whether or not you’re going to buy one, one thing is universally true: the used market will swell with people offloading their current rig for the new hotness. This may or may not be the camera for you, but it will raise all boats for those looking to enter the M system
Hell, I cannot even afford a used Leica M9 or M10. While the Leica M series does intrigue me, the images I can get with other cameras at a lower price point kinda get rid of my G.A,S.
In truth... I'm mostly here for... the voice ❤
I just bought a used M10. This will carry me well into the next five years minimum, probably longer. Prints 30 by 40 I have done from much smaller files than the M10 provides - not a problem.
I hope there's a CL2 in the makes with IBIS and weather sealing. I will probably jump on that.
I like everything you just wrote! We’re holding onto our CL with Summilux TL 35 and Summicron TL 23!
a +1 "I hope there's a CL2 in the makes with IBIS and weather sealing. I will probably jump on that." me too.
What a stunning new mix of art and machine. I love my XPro 3 (it will have to do and yes, it does...) but this is is a significant leap forward. One possible issue. though....aluminum top? I do wonder at this price point why they didn't use titanium or something a little more substantial.
still....
Some will consider the ~20% reduction in weight a feature in favor of the black chrome version. Though, still substantial.
Oh, but I would dare and have for years - though yes, I do wish it had IBIS and both it the lenses for it were weather-sealed. Didn’t stop Cartier-Bresson, either. 😊🖖🏻
@@karimnasser9226 We managed pretty well for decades before weather sealing became a thing and there aren't a lot of places where water would penetrate compared with most cameras. There are no electronics in the lenses so they aren't particularly vulnerable.
Its a pity that the black M11 is aluminum. Brass would have been better looking when the paint wears down from use.
No dioptric adjustment?
Surely, by the time we can afford one of these, most of us are wearing corrective lenses!
I think I'm here for the camera deets but always appreciate the life philosophy thoughts!
I just wear glasses. 😎
And now for the M11 Monochrome at a miniscule $27k. ;-)
Compelling rationale. Thanks for your thoughts. As a previous owner of an M9, M240, and now an M10, I'm sticking with the M10 a little bit longer. Mainly for those times when the smallest interchangeable lens full frame form factor is required. Interestingly, I found that the best M for me is an SL2-S. With the increase in megapixels, I realized that stabilization becomes essential; and that the EVF without blackout, and being able to get exposure right first time is a huge timesaver and avoids frustration. Seeing what's possible today, if I want to go for higher megapixels, the Fuji GFX 50SII is the better trajectory for my uses. What's so interesting with the M though, even with all the constraints, is that it's a great personal tutor. It makes one want to be a better photographer. Once you get in, it's hard to get out.
Great points!
@@AR-vf7vg No good rational, handheld images are not sharp as shown in the end of the DP Review video...
Thank you for your thoughts. I own an M6, M10M and an SL2. I've been considering an M10R because, frankly, I'm not in love with the weight & bulk of the SL2 and really enjoy the rangefinder experience. And now, you've given me something else to think about. Decisions, decisions, decisions!
M10R is more than most people need.
I will wait until the M12 with 96 Mega Pixels arrives - kidding :) I sold my M240 and 50 Summilux and 28 Summicron and moved the the Original "Q" 4 years ago and never looked back. The focusing with a wide open Summilux (where it shines) frustrated me the most. M is a life style and passion. Q with the wide open Summilux gives me most of that pleasure with an electronic view finder and the Image Stabilizer. I will keep the Q for many more years and then pass it to someone in the Family. The problem is Iphone generation (X, Y, Z, Millenials) do not care about the things we do. Cheers!
The most charismatic and passionate review. The price is high, but not much more than a good watch.
I feel like Leica read my mind with the M11 but has created a conundrum. I happily shoot the Q2 Monochrom, M typ 246, and M7 but have invested heavily in the SL2 and the APO Summicrons (35, 50, & 75). I use a lot of Leica M lenses (Leica, Zeiss, Voigtlander, TTArtisan) and they work really well on the SL2 and M cameras. The SL2 has become a good friend and feel confident shooting it more than my sony or even my GFX100S. I have a feeling it's going to be an expensive, but fun, 2022. :)
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” 😉😎
Leica hit a home-run. The future P varient and Monochrom will be on my to get list.
Enjoy your M11! :-) Better to get that which is closes to heart and stop futzing about other options. For me Sigma is "my Leica" since the lovely Sigma dp2 in 2009. Have tried other brands, but ... And yes, I can live without all the bells and whistles. Besides smaller camera means you will take it along more. PS: I remember you asked in one of the videos (for the SL2 or SL2-S perhaps?) for an firmware update to get the option to preview DOF using a button on the camera. I recently discovered that I could do this on my fp/fpL (with latest firmware) and hey, that is a really useful feature! Of course one has peaking, but seeing how the background becomes at f/5.6 or f/8 before taking the shot is sweet. I haven't had this option before so didn't get it usefulness. So thanks for that "tip" :-D
Great. inspiring as usual Hugh. I'll wait for the M11 Monochrome
Hah! 🖖🏻😊
I wish Zeiss would make a simple ZM mount EVF ZX2 and keep the price under $2k. With Leica digital M cameras I need to delay my purchase until they depreciate for about ten years 😂
This is an interesting thought.
@@3BMEP It seems like such a simple concept, there must be more to it. I know they do market research but as to why they think a camera like the ZX1 would fare better in the marketplace than this idea I find hard to understand.
Life is short. If you can afford it and you want it then do it. Anyway, it won’t matter in a hundred years. Enjoy
Just so!
I love how we buy M’s so we can, slow down. We could never do that with what we have. That’s be proven. With the SL2 it just can’t be done. Hold that thought. Maybe it can. Maybe if we could learn to be satisfied with what we have and train ourselves to slow down it just might work. Maybe not.
You make a valid point.
I've had my eye on the M-10R since it was announced. With this coming out, I expect a few to show up on the used market over the coming months. I do wish they'd gone with the real shutter crank like the old Epson RD-1. It could be disabled when shooting continuous, but I'd love it for single.
Chris! 🙋🏼😊
I see an M in my future. The under-used word, ‘titillating’, has finally sold me. Another beautiful, evocative video. Thanks as always, Hugh.
😉
hi from Mexico! The M11 looks and sounds like a fantastic camera! I just clicked your link and it's $9000 .. yikes
Yeah - there’s that. 😉
Love your channel but I have the complete opposite opinion on these systems.
Old Lecia’s felt like it was for the “f8 and be there” generation of photographers. Range Finder, durable body, and fast glass was their working formula for this. Without weather sealing and IBIS, this camera over the decades turned from a journalistic tool to record history with to a camera that has that “special aesthetic”.
The price is fine, but I want these things before I can take this camera seriously:
I want instant on.
I want military grade electronics so the camera can have a much larger operating temperature.
I want weather sealing, IBIS, and ergonomics that works with snow gloves.
I want to be okay dropping this in the wet mud, dry sand, etc then wiping it the front and back with the my shirt.
I like your ambition!
That portrait image at the end is awesome!! Thank you again!
One year later... same price... so there's that. I think the M11 is simply splendid.. I dont have the 35/50 APO-CRON..... 35/50 Lux here... best i can manage..
Get yourself a Fuji XH1 and a 23mm f1.4. And a 6 month holiday in Asia. Purchase rationalisation is the sign of an intelligent man
No flights for me in this era of Omicron, but your point is eminently reasonable!
Yeah but when the holiday is over he will have a Fuji…
Hi Sir, some people said that the high definition of the sensor make so hard to take sharp photos. What do you think? Real issue or just the fact those people do not use the camera the right way? Many thanks.
I've massively curtailed my Leica buying since I determined the brand has become amateur with high price and good lenses.
I just can't justify the cost (£7500) BUT, it may allow we to find an M10-P or M10 R at a reduced price allowing me funds for lenses. Stay Safe Ian (UK)
Just so!
Didn't you here him when he said life is short? Can I borrow some money?
This camera appears to be stunning. Lots of reasons to consider. Since i shoot 90% of my work in monochrome I would be interested in a monochrome version of this camera. If they would release a monochrome version, I would sell all of my film cameras and buy one.
Yes the price is pretty steep, but I think it could be justified by offsetting the price of film, developing and scanning which can cost as an average of 50 cents a frame.
Unfortunately as much as we all love Leica, I have to admit Leica M users took the worst photos in general compared to other modern camera users. I don’t think it’s mainly because the manual cameras Leica produced. But rather that 95% shooters regardless what camera they use are mediocre and for those, an automatic camera are much more efficient to make useable photos. I say this not because I want to be disrespectful to anyone, but looking at people taking about ‘artistic’ ‘feeling’ or ‘being in the moment’ all day and simply can’t make great photographs is an undeniable sad reality. Art is a very difficult pursuit and real artists are those who can make art with a stick (and it is not made of gold). So be true to yourself, speak out with your images, not just wandering on the street with an camera shaped LV on your neck feeling good, which holds nothing but trash inside. Be true, then there is art. (This is not to the video maker)
Taking photos with a rangefinder camera feels different compared to an EVF. It was new to me to see what is around the image but have no feedback on focus and exposure.
But that doesn't make a good or bad photo. With an A6400, eye detection and automatic everything it's easier to get photos that are at least technically ok.
Maybe it's a bit like fixed gear bikes. Do they feel different? Yes (I tried one in a bike store). Was it an interesting experience? Yes. Would it be more practical for my everyday tasks? No.
I applaud your sentiment, but I do not draw the same conclusion about brand correlation, as that has not been my experience.
I recently bought the M10-R and I can't see myself buying an M11. Bad timing? Maybe. But I'm happy with it (specially for the price I got here in HK).
I guess I've reached the point of sufficiency - it still makes great images. I've realized that Leica doesn't necessarily chase the latest technology particularly in the M line (BSI is old news, it's all about stacked sensors now) and it shows even in the M11. For a wider shooting envelope, my Nikon Z6 gives that in spades. But when I want that unique shooting experience, the M10-R is the one that satisfies.
To be honest, the only thing that needs improvement is my skill, not my gear.
💯💯💯
Over the course of nearly 60 days I just returned 3 brand new M-A's back because of dust in the viewfinder straight out of the box. was told the replacement would be specifically c checked by their technicians before sending out again. Their technicians must be blind -Never again - Luxury brand with dogshit QC
😮
Wider array of lenses than m ? What are you talking about ? The gfx may have some but there are definitely much more available for m mount be it Leica Zeiss Voigtländer or others.
Most mirrorless cameras can take ALL m lenses via adapter plus their own.
"Life is Short, the pandemic taught us so much"
.... I do have the 50 APO Summicron and it will work nice on my soon to arrive M11 Silver
Enjoy, Thomas!
Silver is the brass model I believe.
@@rumporridge1 correct TY
The shot of you at the end was my favorite. Thanks for producing the YT content that you do.
🙏🏻😊🖖🏻
Thanks for another great video … Claudia’s closing montage is fabulous! The M11 is a bit too dear for me. But I’m very happy that you’ve ordered one, because we can all enjoy your fantastic shots!
Thank YOU, Jeff!
It’s a Sony a7r4 and the photos look exactly the same!
Just know that my picture will not get better with a x k camera
Well at least decent M10's at more modest prices will finally reach the market. Given the long development time and the huge MP count I am surprised that the M11 hasn't got a decent IS system. That to me and I suspect many others is more important than yet more MP's.....
I hear you.
Please do more video on m11 maybe menu system and practical
For those with money to burn, sure, go splurge. Go spend stupid dollars on exoticisms. A camera does not a good photographer make. Just as a McLaren F1 race car does not make a winning driver. Quality comes from the person pushing the button, in the drivers seat.
Here is my rationale. It may tick you off, but it is brutal honesty. With classic examples from history.
Yousuf Karsh, Ansel Adams made some of the most breathtaking photographs in history. In 1940. With a box camera and optics of the day. 8x10 I do believe. Nothing remotely close to Leica, Zeiss or Sony. But Karsh had talent.
Winston Churchill's portrait defined a nation at war and that image inspired a world to fight and win. 1 shot, 1 take, 3 minutes. But planned in every detail in advance without Churchill even knowing this was coming until he was suddenly diverted into a prepared room just after giving a speech to the House of Commons in Ottawa. "What's this?" he bellowed. "No one takes my picture." PM McKenzie King said it would only take a minute. And with great indignation, Churchill scowled in anger with his cigar in his mouth. Karsh went up to him, plucked it out, went back to the camera and took the picture - Churchill commented how even a photographer cold tame a lion and went on with his day. That picture is immortalised forever.
Was it a Leica M11? Hell no. Not even close. He used a box camera with the best he could get, but it was his skill that made the difference.
So why an overpriced Leica? Because the current mentality is this: Buy the most expensive and exotic gear, money is no object and you become a Karsh. Money buys talent. The GAS virus - destructive bugger. Gear Acquisition Syndrome. See it all the time. Get the latest Sony, Canon or Leica, upgrade it every year. Sell the old Canon for Sony or swap out Nikon for XYZ brand. Spend monopoly money. And the final results? Not much has changed - certainly not world shaking pictures - they have about as much appeal as watching asparagus grow. No better. Still not much soul. Cell phone snap shot stuff. Comes too easy. No more effort.
So you get 15 stops DR, or 400,000 ISO, or 60 Mpx resolution. Better for sure, but does it make you a better photographer? Maybe a teensy weensy bit. But put a master like Karsh on an old Canon 5D2 or a film camera like a Contax and Zeiss optics with Kodachrome, or Tri-X pan films or whatever and guaranteed, he could make the world sit up and take notice.
It is not the instrument dummy. It is the talent that makes all the difference.
The disease is that one thinks that buying a Leica M11 with a bunch of lenses will make them world class images. Until someone else looks at your work for a few seconds and then asks to go out for french fries completely forgetting the picture you took with $15,000 worth of metal and glass. Get my point?
And if you really want to understand, Jesus was the same. No scholar, no brilliant upbringing, no prestige, no inherited or natural fame or looks, no money, no business, no degrees and honors, born into lower class, worked hard. He didn't even have a home or a married family, yet Jesus virtually changed the world with nothing but raw talent and inside information. And his fame spread like a wildfire in a hot dry land, unstoppable. Get my point?
Not interested in Leica in any way. Raw talent - ahh, that is where to focus on instead.
Still pissed off?
I just picked up an affordable M9! Thanks M11!
Enjoy!
I’m really curious where the pieces of the M 240 or M10 will go. I speak for young photographers who want/need to shoot rangefinder but for whom film becomes a worse option every day. Be it because of film prices going up, lab prices going up, the discontinuation of films, the lack of good home scanning options, or the dawn of mathematical film emulations. The latter of which might eliminate the need to shoot film for any visual reasons fairly soon.
I’m still on the side of film tho and gonna stick with my M5 (M2 for the time being my M5’s still with a depressed repairman) and film. I’m shooting more Fuji Superia 400 and CineStill now that I can’t afford the Portras for shooting my day to day life anymore. And Fuji Superia 400 is an excellent film for the price. With great rendering in tungsten light for a daylight film.
But the issue of a scanner looms large. I’m using the best lab in my country but they don’t know how I want my shots to be balanced. I yearn for a scanner that gives me enlarger like color/density controls. But at that price I’m gonna have to weigh that with the price of a digital M. And while I’d still prefer to shoot film for archival reason and to keep the industry alive, Miguel Santana’s Spectra film might still sway me to use film emulations after all.
I’ll probably still save up for a lab scanner and stay with film since no M has reached the utter heights of my M5, which to this das remains the most ergonomic and futz free camera I know of.
I prefer to find the 18% grey spot and calculate the proper exposure for the scene myself.
Please keep me informed - I’ve concluded digital is the only way to fly for me (for the same reasons you’ve already covered and a few more), but you strike me as a true silver halide kind of guy. Very much want to stay paris Ed of your experience and thoughts as you move forward.
I could listen to you ramble on all day long, your voice is mesmerizing lol…regardless nice video!
🙏🏻🖖🏻
This is the street photo cam I will buy when I can swing the almost $9k price & $3k lenses.. if for anything else.. so I can join the Leica family & look down my nose at everyone shooting ANYTHING else.
I do really want this Leica and I'm sure it's amazing
My guy just called me to ask if I was interested in a M11 because he had one (Black). I said no but I asked him if he had a used M10-P in good condition. 🙂
Lovely presentation that brings back the memory of a friend who convinced me to upgrade from M6 to M9 saying that life is short. Sadly, he passed too young. Leica is indeed a talisman for those of us of a certain age. Many of us have vast experience in the use of Leicas so that their use is second nature and consequently satisfying; we do not have to struggle, cataracts and macula allowing. I wonder what is the demographic of current Leica buyers?
What a great question! Wish I knew the answer! Thanks for sharing!
Don’t know about the current demographic but at 54 I sold all my Canon gear and went all in with the SL2 system. So far I have a 24-90mm and the 75mm SL APO. I’m completely satisfied with the images I’m producing. Leica I thought was out of reach for me, but here I am. And here to stay.
Always appreciate your Leica enthusiasm and love. I’ll live vicariously thru you on this one. Two M240s here continue to treat me well. Cheers. Be well.
Continue to enjoy!
Hugh, you're asking this poor ADHD'er to hold a lot of thoughts.
😜 You can do it! 😊👍🏻😉
It’s incredible, I just wanted to watch a Leica review and ended up playing the guitar for hours after this motion art essay… Thank you for carrying and igniting the spark of love, life and art with every fiber of your being Sir, I salute you.
Our pleasure and privilege! 😊🖖🏻
I dont think that internal memory is because it gives security. Its more like ability to speed up proces of shooting... more stable connection and quicker transfer to the memory.
The DP review shows handheld shots are not sharp, I wouldn't rush into buying this camera...
It takes a tripod and most expensive APO lenses to get sharp images at the 60mp resolution. A Leica on a tripod, isn't this a nonsense?
It is harder to get shots without IBIS - that is a fact. That one can get sharp photos without IBIS or a tripod or APO lenses, in my experience, is also a fact. Do I wish it had IBIS? YES. Did this stop me from ordering one? No. 😎🖖🏻
At 11 mins you nailed it all 👌
The new leica has FUJI film battery!!!! hopefully will see it in fujifilm cameras, 1800Mah
Beautiful camera. I'll never own one however; it's a rich man's camera.
Grat video, of course. But I must really mention how much I liked that very last photo - the one of you, which, I assume was taken by Claudia. Using what?
ONLY Claudia do an image like that! Nikon Z7 II with Nikkor Z 24-70/2.8, an extraordinary combination. This is her next system, order to be filled imminently.
5:50
Hold that thought… 🤣
High resolution sensors help resolve more the ANALOG qualities of an older lens.
Remember, digital’s quantizing nature TOSSES information all the time. A larger mp sensor just tosses less analog qualities when digitizing
Can you narrate all of the videos on Curiosity Stream?
Good narration voice. 👌👌
Back in the days of film, one could justify (rantionalize?) paying the premium for a Leica (or Rollei or Hassy) with the argument that, thanks to the wonderful build quality, the camera would last you for a lifetime - like my old M3. Digital sort of blows this up, since we are much more likely to replace our cameras for extra features or performance upgrades - rather than becase they are worn out. $8,000 is a lot of money - especially if you throw in extra for state-of-the-art lenses. And expect to do it all over again in another 3 years! All that said, I like your L'Oreal argument - "costs more, but you're worth it!"
I would have been happy with somewhere between 30 and 40 megapixels and that BSI sensor. I wonder what the high iso noise performance looks like against the M10-R.
Leica M11 is actually a Sony: artificial color rendition! Faint B&W! Backlighting a 3-part sensor with a fitting blue-shift failed! What a pity! The last Leica M. Leica Image look sold to Sony… What a pity!
Fortunately, I own a M8.2 ccd, M246 monochrome & M10-P (24 mega-pixels).
There is room for people of good conscience to disagree. 🖖🏻
Unless you plan on shooting with the M11 using a tripod, you WILL find achieving sharp imagery a real challenge. This is the case for two principle reasons: one, hand shake will be all the more 'magnified' by the higher pixel count, and, two, the range finder mechanism is simply not up to the challenge of functioning as it should at such high pixel counts. Any potential gains offered with a higher pixel count in terms of sharpness, are lost to hand shake and rangefinder limitations. This can already be seen with the M10R. My experience is that 24mp is about as high a pixel count one can go without critically compromising sharpness (in handheld, fluid shooting situations - the very sort of situations the Leica M is ... uh ... was ... designed to excel in.
Ona side note, how do you (and a plethora of other UA-camrs) even afford to spend so much money on cameras? An M11 and even a basic lens is around £10,000. Plus you’ve already an SL2 with lenses.
How do you afford it?
We work really, really hard at a profession in a time and place where that effort is sufficiently remunerative; and our priorities are likely different from people who don’t spend that way.
I like it. I do wonder though, if they came out with an M12 what improvements would occur if any? And what is the soonest they would release one?
I agree with Steve Huff, 24mp on a leica is all you really need, easily print upto A2 prints, with a suitable leica lens. I mean the file sizes are just getting too big.
I'm still using the m9 more than my mono and MP, and really the only attraction to a 10 would be the app and wireless terher etc.
If you're considering leica for the first time, buy a used 10 or 240mp, and spend the rest on good glass, or photo books.
My2c :)
For many people, this is good advice.
What do you do with your enormous prints? Do you have friends or clients with massive walls that need filling? (Not that I don't lust for an M11 but the need for 50" prints is a pretty feeble reason).
We hang them - this far - in our own home.
Am I the only one who’s gonna miss the bottom plate?? The M11 replacement is plain ugly, although practically speaking I see the advantages. But when has shooting an M been about practicality?
1954 - 1960. 😎
I bought an M8 in 2007. I still love it, but rarely use it. With the announcement of the M11, I took the M8 to shoot with it a little, and remember why I love it so much... and now... I'm so tempted to order an M11... decisions, decisions, decisions...
Hugh: I've said this before and will say it again, I truly love your videos. I own a Nikon D6 and have owned all the other iterations as well. I purchase the SL2 with the 24-90 and 90-280 two months ago. Wow! I love it. I owned a M10 and didn't dislike it, I don't think I was ready for it. But, I look back at some of my photos using the M10 and well, I was impressed. I am going to pull the trigger on the M11perhaps at Christmas. The cost of the SL2 plus lens set me back a bit.
On another point, I had a dickens of a time trying to locate you website. I found Claudia easier than yours. I want to take a moment an admire your work and investigate the cost of a one-on-one with you.
Delighted you are so enjoying your journey; happy to be a small part of it. My photo website is in the middle of being completely rebuilt as we are on the verge of selling prints. Hold that thought!
I really appreciate this style of review. So many I’ve seen amount to not much more than a rehash of the spec sheets. The technology is obviously important, but not for its own sake. The point, for me, is the experience and the images I’m able to produce, the only limitation being my skill level. The M11 seems to be a winner on both counts. Very nice review.
Happy you enjoyed it, thanks!
Before committing to spend a fortune on this camera and needed lenses ask yourself how masterful photographers created meaningful work with the available equipment 50 - 75+ years ago.
Great question to ask!
One day when My LF desire gives way to the ravages of Time I will perhaps venture into the ‘M’ World. This compelling camera is still simple enough to retain its classic character.
👍
I still can't get past the price point. As a documentary/street photographer in retirement, I am enjoying a (new to me) Fuji X-Pro2 and XF 35mm f2 WR for a weather resistant package. Since I print nothing over 18"X12", a 60 MP camera holds no interest for me especially at $9,000. All are the Leica hype is just that for me, hype. I applaud anyone that wants to spend that kind of money and believe that their images are better with Leica bodies and lenses.
I do enjoy your in-depth reviews though.
To each his own - thanks for weighing in. Fujifilm makes some great cameras and lenses!
The 75 Noctilux that I bought blocks the viewfinder. You can’t use the Visioflex with flash as you loose the hot shoe and there is no flash port. So much for professional portraits…..
I hear you.
You are CHEATING Hugh! You married a photographer that not only understands $10,000 camera investments, but enthusiastically encourages such endeavors.
Thanks for posting your images. Always impressive. I hope viewers stop and take the time to admire the effort.
Hah! No - I just chose wisely. 😊🖖🏻😎
Nice... I may be able to upgrade my M240 to an M10 for a lower price... Thanks Hugh...
Very interesting to hear your thought processes on choosing to purchase the M11. In the past few years, I have had similar conversations about cameras as you did with yourself here. I cut my teeth shooting film with Nikon cameras. The F3 is my particular favourite. I shot a lot of medium format, RB67, 'blad, etc. Even 4x5. But I always liekd the smaller form factor of 35mm. I had my chance to try out an M2 with Summicron lens. I was hooked. Loved the simplicity, ruggedness, image quality, and i loved using a rangefinder. With digital, I eventually migrated to a D810 ( yes, kept the beloved F3 with all its wonderful brassing ). Knowing I was going to take an extended trip to Italy, I knew I wanted a smaller, more compact digital camera that wouldn't weigh me down. Budgetwise, Leica was right out of consideration and eventually, I landed on the Fuji X100F. My god, what a great little camera. Easy to use but easy to slip into full manual mode, fantastic film simulation settings, built in ND filter, etc. And I got to use a rangefinder camera again. The more I used it, the more I started to think about the old M2 on my shelf; how much I miss shooting with it but I knew, I wouldn't be shooting film again. Felt a shame to let it sit on a shelf. As I'd pick up the M2, play with it a bit, I hatched an idea; sell the camera, a few other items collecting dust ( mint FM2n, spare 'blad, etc ). Several eBay sales later, I had enough for an M10. I really love a rangefinder, limited menu items, and minimal buttons. As great as the X100f is, I'd still get lost wondering how to access a certain feature or film simulation. Yes, a Leica is not a camera I "need" and yes, there are other cameras out there which offer more features for less but as you said, "Life is short". And hearing you describe the thought processes of buying an M11 echoed back on the same internal dialog I had with myself when contemplating the M10. And i believe this camera helps me be a better photographer by putting all the image making decisions in my hands, literally.
Your last sentence is my caveat. I have Zeiss and Voigtlander M-Glass, that I use with an ancient 18MP ME. If I sold a part of my analog camera collection, the M11 world be within reach, with a 35mm apo Summicron, I’d have to sell a kidney on top…
Look at the Voigtländer APO Lanthar 35.
At 12:27 that is not a Visoflex. A vintage visoflex is a big contraption that contains a mirror, this allows you to look directly through the attached lens, and not through the rangefinder. Hugh, maybe you are not old enough?
Actually, it’s called a VIOOH and I
own one. 😊 It served the same function as the Visoflex Typ 020 which immediately preceded it in the clip sequence. But I DO know that Leica also made an SLR accessory called the Visoflex for the Barnack Leica’s - but I thought the inclusion of that contraption was off-point. Thanks for picking that up! 🖖🏻
How your ISO, I had the Sony A7R IV since 2019 and low light suck It falls apart after 3200.
I do my darnedest to shoot at lowest ISO possible, but for the pre-pro version I had in hand, at 6400 it was beautiful - though of course noisier than base. I was impressed, which is a big reason why I've ordered one.
I must admit, I'm infatuated with the size/form factor of the M system & the quality of its glass but, would probably end up with an SL2 system first. Does Leica have a M macro lens. Same holds for the SL. I would need an SL macro. No one puts it out like this channel.
PS: Or an A1
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Leica Macro-Elmar-M 90 f/4 - wonderfully small and light. Needs the Macro-Adapter-M for 1:2 magnification though.
@@Bayonet1809 Thank you. I don’t remember seeing one. I’ll check out their website.
Hugh, I drive a fork-lift truck and I will never own a Leica but I subscribe to your videos because you're my free psychiatrist.
Hah! Glad to be of service, John. The good news is that one does not need a Leica to make satisfying or amazing imagery - or just enjoy the process. 😊🖖🏻
I dont see any reason to pay soo much for my photography better to spent this money to travel …..and shoot with my 10 year old camera that still works amazingly good!
I understand. 😊🖖🏻
Don't care too much about the verbal content - even of this channel - but, I have to admit: Your Pics are stunning.
Your compositions are just awesome.
Grats and thank you for em
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I went To Leica Mayfair for a test of the M11 but looking to by the Q2 but after a few hours of use of the M11 I was hooked and got mine this week. Its a remarkable camera and just about to retire from work, probably the last digital M I will own or need.
Enjoy!
I want to get my first M camera but the fact that the black version of the M11 does not have the top plate in brass is very disappointing as I actually like the heavy feeling. That has me wondering if I really need 60 megapixels as I like to shoot at night, so I am a little concerned about no IBIS for slower shots. All of this is making me feel like maybe I should wait to see if the price of the M10-R drops a bit soon and going with that instead. Lastly, it would be nice to be able to use the new viewfinder but from what I've read online, the M10-R may not be able to take advantage of it's full potential due to the older tech. I don't know what to do!
I’m confident you’ll sort it out - and enjoy the process! 😊🖖🏻
I'm not buying because I can't afford one.
That is a darned good reason.
I think it's for newcomers to the M system. I will stick with my old school M10
After 25 years of lusting after a Leica M camera, watching the invention of digital photography, the first, faltering steps of Leica into digital M cameras, owning a Digilux 4, an X1, a Q1 and raising a family, starting a business… my order for an M11 has gone in, accompanied by an order for a 50mm Summilux. Can’t wait. See you in New York sometime, Hugh.
Enjoy, Tom!
Hugh, FYI, there is a Leica 24mm f/3.8 in mint condition available at Tamarkin Camera. Fingers crossed you can get one soon to go with your M11!!
Thanks so much, Gerald, for keeping an eye out! I've found one second hand through KEH (surprise, surprise) and it's on its way here now! PS: I didn't find the Elmar on their site. Where did you see it?
Thank you so much for your points of view! I was strongly considering buying one already and your words really tipped the scale. I cannot wait. November will be Christmas come early.
Enjoy!
Was looking for reasons to rebuff what could be viewed as a 'snobographic' rant but sadly I find you convincing on every count. Enjoy every minute of your life enhancing experiences with Miss M.
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Great as always Hugh!! If they are about to release an M11-D also maybe it’s time for me to put my car for sale (or my two Canon DSLR’s and all my lenses) and buy one ASAP 😄! Really, I bitterly regret I didn’t bought an M10-D earlier…
I bet they will release at least some variants, but I have no sense of when. Not for awhile, I suppose…
Hi Hugh
Wonderful review as per usual. Wondering… you mentioned a reason why you wouldn’t buy a m10m being the number of missed focus shots via rangefinder in a previous review, yet you’re all in and will purchase a m11. Has something changed substantially in the rangefinder of the m11?
In the rangefinder, no; the higher res rear panel and Visoflex 2 - and the apertures at which I shoot an M - yes. When I want to shoot shallow DOF, my autofocusing SL2 is my first port of call. When I want to shoot M and I still want to shoot shallow, I will now have the resolution to do it (with the color information I regularly use in post still available to me). 😊🖖🏻
I understand and applaud the improvements but am having one of those old person moments, waxing nostalgic for workshops and trips years ago with a pair of MP 0.72 bodies or an MP and M7 (one slide, one B&W film) at the ready. Oddly enough, I seemed to have no trouble with the center weighted meter, the bottom plate, the dense build, or manual focus. Leica has to move forward to survive, but I’m missing those simpler days. I do enjoy the M10M as well as my SL2 gear, but find myself checking the usual sites, looking at the back order notice on the MP pages.
Great review- I appreciate the insights. Do you feel like you are able to get as much out of the M11 with black and white conversions as with the M10M? Deciding on whether to pull the trigger on this or wait for the M11M (shooting mostly b&w with low iso from a tripod).
As I rarely shoot above ISO 12800 and do sometimes shoot in color or use color channel information in post, when it came time to spend my own money I went M11 as you know. But I have a borrowed M10 Monochrom in house now, so stay tuned!
From watching your video regarding the tripod mount / not being able to release the battery, you could see that if they just flipped that release latch 180 degrees you might have been able to operate it with a mount attached. M12 maybe!
I love the channel, but I am holding on to too many thoughts... Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺
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Each time Hugh says "hold that thought" I mentally hang whatever he has said in a crochet , as if it were an expensive piece of fabric or cloth "to be used later".
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I had a m8.m9, m240 but held out on the m10. Got an SL used for 2k instead to use my M glass. This one is really tempting and you are not helping. :). I love the depth of your thoughts always, this video no exception. I don't have any of the apo lenses ( except the 90 cron ) and wonder if my regular lenses will resolve ok with this.
It CAN be an issue. My 50 Cron held up, but I think more recent Leica designs, especially the APOs (Leica and Voigtländer) are the way to go.