I personally think the Nikon FE2 with Nikkor pancake lens wins here. Nikon FE2 is an awesome camera and you're not just limited to Nikkor lenses - you can also use magnificent lenses from Zeiss with it, for example Zeiss Distagon 28mm f2 that is available for Nikon F mount. Zeiss glass combined with the classic Nikon film camera hardware is unbeatable combo in my opinnion.
Thanks Thomas, The v3 pancake is a strong performer normally, it seemed to match the Summicron quite well for sharpness but suffered from more flare than expected. It is the Japanese one not the cheapo E series ones. I have those too. I don't have a normal 50 f2, only the 1.2 and I sold my 1.4s 1.8 AF ones as didn't need/ use.
The Nikkor 50mm 2.0 is much better than the 1.8 versions I have used. I got my 2.0 with a Nikkormat FTN and was modified to Ais. Not as soft as the 1.8 wide open and much more contrast, even wide open. My Summicron Rigid is much softer, but as sharp as the Nikon 2.0. Both are stellar lenses and served me well
@@chrisreich40 thanks Chris, I’m used to not needing hoods on most of the lenses I use but yes I will do so in future. I know I can think of more excuses to do future tests :)
That was a lot of work involved. A very interesting and excellent presentation, as usual. You are certainly quite a knowledgeable professional. Thank you again. RS. Canada
Thanks Richard, yes in hindsight the film reviews might not be worth the additional time and work from the film point as less interest in film vs new lenses but sometimes I do it for myself as I want to know. Thanks for the feedback! P.S. you can see the review results better here - mrleica.com/leica-r6-vs-nikon-fe2/
I like the Nikkor images better, richer color. The sharpness seems comparable. Lower contrast may contribute to the richer colors with the Nikon glass. Really, it's the difference between the lenses and not the cameras, wouldn't you agree?
Thanks William, yes 100% the lenses but as you (I) use them as systems I was comparing the 2 setups I would carry for model shoots. For better results from the Nikon I'd use the 58mm Voigtlander but I wanted to test the pancake as that is my ideal travel 50.
As an avid Nikkor Ais prime lense shooter, I would suggest trying a Nikkor 55mm f/2.8 micro Ai/Ais lense next time if your looking for razor sharp images that par with leica glass. Shoot between f/5.6-f/11. Unimaginable bokeh at f/5.6! Just be aware that the focusing requires added twist(s) beings its a micro lense. Nikon still manufactures and sells this cult-like-status lense. It's my very favorite Nikkor lense...hands down! I'm not a collector/hoarder, but am really intrigued with what I've read about the Voightlander 58mm and 40mm Nikkor/ F-mount lenses. Could be a match made in heaven for your FE2!
Hi Noel, thanks and welcome! It sounds like we are well aligned! See my Voigtlander for Nikon video (I use 20,28,40,58 on FE2!) and the sharpest 50 video (I have 2 copies of the 55/2.8 - amazing lens!) AND see last nights video.. Nikon vs Leica, the revenge match haha (not the title).. but wait til you see the results! :)
I have the 55 micro 2.8 and the 1.8 and 1.4 brothers as well. I shoot the 55 as my main lens on my F3 because of the close focusing love this little lens
@@terrywbreedlove Glad to hear that your a Nikkor micro fan too. Really nice match with your F3 and balance of weight body/lense. Have not had a chance to shoot the faster 1.8 lense, but nice to have in an available light situation! Nice collection Terry!
@@noelcameron7856 i have a boat load of Nikon stuff. I have a 135 F2 and a 28mm. I have the F3hp an F2 and i have two Fe cameras. Plus i have three AF Nikon cameras 🤣 and they have their lenses. My favorite is the 50mm 1.8 D but i also have the 85mm 1.8 D and the 80-200 F2.8. They just kind of collect up over the years.
The Leica lens skin tones and contrast look better to me and I feel like the Nikon lens looks a bit washed out with too much Magenta in a lot of the photos. I can say that the R6 and Summicron-R 50mm combo are a joy to shoot with and also a steal for the price. Great video and article, thank you!
Nice thing about Google and UA-cam I did a seach of the Nikon FE2 $250 and wanted to compare it with the Leica M7 0.72 35mm Rangefinder Camera Body (Silver) $2900. It isn't the same comparison of what you are showing but helps me to decide if I want to get involwd with film cameras. Cheers1
Matt, Excellent realistic comparison without sounding like a fan boy. So it comes down to a few basic technical and personal criteria. 1- Camera body: Technical features and how it fits in your hand. 2- Lenses: Quality, character and availability. 3- Price. Thanks again, FW
When I sold these in the 80s I steered everyone away from Leica.Expensive and the reputation of their electronics was in question.Considering I never met a Rep from Leica the 5 years these things collected dust in the store contributed to my bias.I handled the FE2 everyday.Loved it then.Thanks for the nostalgic memories.
Great Video Matt. Would be interesting to see results (instead of pancake) from a Nikkor 50mm f 1.4 ais with a decent hood. I bought a vented aluminum hood for mine courtesy of our Oriental Ebayers, and it adds very little to size and weight.
Thanks John, I have that exact same hood I think! :) I normally love the results from this less common Japanese pancake lens so i've never looked elsewhere.. I spent ages getting that lens and importing it. If I ever come across a 1.4 AIS I will try to compare. I sold my D and G fast lenses as prefer MF.
I'm a nikon fan.... FG in 1986 RIP in 1999.... FE F3 since.... One set of pics showed freckles on model, FE2. No freckles on Leica. I think R6 had a, 'dreamy', feel. Nice post.... ; )
Thanks Rocky! I love my FG-20 (I have 2!) I thought i'd get abuse if compared that to a Leica so used the FE2 as I like the needle meter vs FM2n. I still need to try the F3! :)
Nice video. Nikon, I also noticed more detail and texture with Nikon. There is more contrast with Leica, correct, however, for me texture is more important and wide range of tonalities.
It's all in the skin tones, Matt. The Leica lens renders so much better in this respect. Another great video and it's great to be able to compare the pics in your blog.
To my eyes, the Nikon rendering is superior. Leica looks yellow and insipid. Whether the film processing has ahd anything to do with it or not is another story.
shot nikon and nikkor ai glass for 20 years now and always felt that my photos felt a bit flat and and cold. never understood why until this week i tried a leica M6 with a voigtlander ultron. i fellt in love and will be buying that setup and retiring my nikon gear for the time being.
Welcome to Leica! Congrats on your M6. I'm not anti Nikon and enjoy the film cameras but moved from the D800 as the files were flat and boring. (There's plenty of Leica info on here - 260+ videos & on the blog - MrLeica.com if you need it)
Nice, Mr. Leica and a London field trip to boot! I previously bought a Nikkor Pancake V3 based on your recommendation and am now planning to use it with a small hood to scare off flare. I also stumbled onto a Nikon FM3A that is on its way. Finding the best gear via your channel is rather spoiling me Matt, and I have now sworn off my Chardonnay salutes during online shopping. Not easy to do BTW. - Best regards from the field, Nolan
Matt Great video! You may want to try the R to L, M to R and the R to M adapters to get the most out of your lenses and bodies This is one advantage over Nikon for a Leica enthusiast like you All the very best
I had and have many cameras but the Nikon FE2 ist the only one I never had sold at any point in time. Put a 2/50mm Ai on it instead of the 1,8/50mm Ais and it will be a much closer match to the Summicron especially on b&w and it will also have less busy bokeh.
I slightly prefer the Leica photos, but that's down to the superior glass, I think :-) Those Leica R lenses are seriously good! I have the original FE and an R6, and I like them both a lot. The FE/Voigtländer 40mm F2 combo is my favourite for a carry-around compact SLR kit. The R6/Summilux R 50mm is what I use for ultimate resolution and just all around goreousness!
Thanks Don! Yes great choice on the 40mm! I go one further and use it on the FG-20 :) - even smaller and lighter than FEs/FMs. Summilux - Nice! Still my #1 in M mount (don't have in R mount)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom The Summilux is just as good in R mount, but focuses much closer! :-) I have it in M mount too, it's probably my favourite lens.
Hey Matt: I’ve found your comment on the Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 truly amazing. You admitted you liked the “imperfect” rendering of the Nikkor over the Leica. As I see it the Nikkor’s image is less analytical or “digital” which satisfies many who like that quality…!
The shutter speed is indeed an issue as this is the case with the Leica M7. Otherwise I prefere the Leica by far. I shoot with a Leica R8 and a max. shutter speed of 1/8000 s is fine. The Leica R lenses can also be adapted to the M-System and the SL-System (M-Mount) but yes maybe lenses can not be adapted to the R. Nikon lenses may be cheaper but a lot of the Leica R lenses have increased in value. (please judge not my English, since it is not my native language)
Thank you. English is perfect. Yes agree with everything you said. R8 - nice! :) ..my R6.2 gives me 1/2000 but Nikon still win with 1/4000 if needed. Yes I enjoy R glass on SL.
Very nice video, but you could have used a better Nikon lens (not a pancake) 😉. I liked the Leica photos more in this case - because I prefer warmer tones. The blog post is great.
Thanks Kim, A few people said this. It is the Japanese kick ass v3 pancake, not a crappy one. It's a great lens, my go to for Nikon if want small. Voigtlander 58mm if want the best, or 55mm Micro for non-models...or 1.2 for nice bokeh :)
@Kim Jensen, You're right about bad choice of lens to compare to here!!! This pancake is a Series E variety lens. In fact there is a pancake-ish lens in Series E 50mm f1.8, exact optical design, which I own and occasionally use. Even then, this pancake has better contrast and clarity than Matt's Leica R lens he used here. Which is not a bad thing. I have a German born Elmarit-R 90mm that I use when I want less contrasty, glow-ey portraits. And use Nikkors or Zeiss to poke people in the eye, or to have them count leaves on a tree without much difficulty. As for warm and cool tones, it hardly matters these days with digital editing of film scans. If you were going to print Cibachromes, then MAYBE! And if shooting b&w films, like any respectable art photographer should, the color tint of lenses do not matter at all! Does it? Although it makes for interesting UA-cam video topic to chill with.
@@ghosttownsentinel5288 I agree with you regarding digital editing, - that is why I don't under stand the hype about film "receipies" in Fuji cameras. I used to have 3 of them, now only X-T2 remains. I just shoot raw and edit the way I want. If I want it to look like film, I shoot film 😁
I have the R6.2 and love the look of the photos that I get from it. I also shoot (less frequently) an FM2 and other Nikons, but always prefer the Leica photographs.
For Nikon camera nerds. It’s the Japanese market (closer focus version) 50/1.8 short nose! 😆 …. FE2’s are such underrated cameras. I like the 50/1.8 ai lens more than the short nose. Btw, you generally can’t focus to infinity with M42 lenses for F mount. Leica R stuff is so nice. I prefer my Contax Zeiss lenses though. Zeiss lenses have a great cinematic look to them, which have a distinctly different look to my Nikon F mount lenses. Great video and review. Thanks! 👍
Thanks VR! Yes correct about M42 not going to infinity but for portraits they are OK. Thanks about Zeiss stuff. I have some Zeiss M mount and CRF mount. Asking for a Nikon geek help, what is the best performing cheap 50? The 50 f2 ai/pre-ai?
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom all the Nikon 50’s are pretty good. People like the 50/2, but it has the most distortion. I like the 50/1.4 ai-s for wider apertures, all the 50/1.8 ai/ai-s) all perform about the same, the 55 2.8 & 3.5’s are really good too. The pre-ai 50/2 is a nice looking small lens though, and I wouldn’t mind shooting with it. The lowest price for performance Nikkor 50’s would probably be the 50/2, 50/1.8 ai, or 55/3.5 micro. But to me, all Nikon 50’s around the same price, within the $50-150 US price range. … except the 50/1.2 or 58/1.2. A lot of people like the Series E 50/1.8 too. It’s single coated, so it’s best for B&W. But it can flare like crazy in bright light. Same optical design as the Nikkor version short noses though.
@@JP1050x thanks! Great info! I’m pretty good on Leica gear but less so with Nikon stuff I’ve not used. Yes I rate the cheap E series 50, I have 2 versions + the v3 one. The Micro lenses are the best performers for me to too sharp for my female portraits. I didn’t rate the 50 1.4D or 50 1.8G so sold those. I like the size of the v3 pancake but might look at a f2 as most comments on this video mentioned it ha. I’m a sucker for small lenses so I’ll look at the old ones. (I think I can then use on my FE if pre-Ai from memory). Cheers!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Nikon didn’t really make a lot of small lenses in F mount. The 50/1.8 short nose you have is probably going to be as good as you get. However, the Nikkor 105/2.5 is pretty good for a relatively compact portrait lens. Nikon sold a ton of them after Steve McCurry made that Afghan Girl photo. They made a nice Sonnar version in pre-ai that not a lot of people know about. Although, the 105/2 and 135/2 DC lenses are stellar for film portraits. Otherwise, the 50/1.2 or Noct 58/1.2 would probably be great portrait lenses if you prefer more normal focal lengths.
Great photographs, the red heads blue eyes are amazing. I am surprised that there are noticeable colour differences. The Leica pics look more saturated which might be down to better exposure. The Nikon pics could maybe have done will a little less light but there are also flare issues. The skin colours from the Nikon look more natural, the Leica is a bit waxy.
Yes I can see the difference but it’s difference in the lenses and film properties and processing I think. Cameras are just light-tight exposure boxes. Great video though. I own FM, FM2, FE, FE2, FM3A, and M6 TTL. Agreed Voigtlander F Mount lenses are fabulous. The M Mount lenses they make are great too.
Thanks Brad, agreed. You might appreciate a video I have coming ;) Say no more! I did a video on the bodies you mentioned, you may have already commented on it, sorry I lose track. Yes love the F mount Voigtlanders! Vids on them too + all the M ones ofc.
Beautiful both ! Having the Nikon FE 50mm pancake since last year, and just bought the Leica r4s without lens, looking to purchase summitar 50mm f2 or the summilux 50mm f1.4 for it, vario elmar 35-70mm f3.5 doesn't seems a bad choice for all around portrait, street and hollydays, and looks super cool on sony mirrorless cameras. Thanks
I didn't realize you were using an Epson v800 for scanning your negatives, you should try mirrorless scanning with your Leica SL, I was able to put together a system for about $150 Canadian that was noticeably sharper and had better colour then the Epson flatbed scanner I used up until 2022. It also greatly reduces scan and processing time down to about 20 to 30 seconds an image including cropping and running the Photoshop script I developed to invert and colour correct the negative
good comparison Matt (: I like the colour and the lighting looks good in your video. I travel now w/ my Nikon FA and I just realized its the same 625g as your Leica but it feels smaller and much lighter then an F3P I used to carry at 880g or so.
I use Leica-M and Nikon-F. I noticed that in some images, the Leica had more distortion! The Nikkor was OK. I prefer the contrast of Nikkor. The 50mm pancake lens you used is open to flare, use a regular Nikkor..The FE much noisier .Very pretty model. Great processing.
Thanks Thomas, yes many days the same. I just compared my favourite from each system though I have the FM2 too. They Nikons are take the same photos of course.
Awesome video Matt. Great review on Nikon and Leica. Both camera and lens. I never own Leica camera or lens but one day I’ll own one. I’ve own so many Nikon 50mm both Manuel and AF. But I find my Nikkor 50mm 1.8Ai-s pancake is the sharpest.Than of course my Zeiss otus 55mm is big and heavy to carry it around when travelling. I value small size and weight, and appreciate that f/1.8 lenses have better optical performance then f/1.4 lenses. Looking forward to your next video. Cheers mate
Great comparison. Lovely shots. Thanks for all the links! IMHO I prefer Leica. Nikon has an abundance of lenses, but that doesn't sway me personally. It has that certain something....Je ne sais quois.
Thanks Lucy! As you know I normally shoot Leica so i'm usually with you on this :) I know the R glass is normally amazing but I did like the blue tones from the Nikon in these :)
I wonder if the flare could be controlled with a lens hood. I have the pancake 50 but I often shoot the 58mm voigtlander 1.4 with a lens hood especially if shooting towards the sun. I wonder how that lens would have fared on the nikon. Contrast and color I can control in conversion and post. But depth/ subject separation and bokeh, those are pretty much baked in so more important lense characteristics. One of my favorite photo quotes is from Stieglitz when someone told him his shot wasn't sharp, he said it's not supposed to be. As a portraitist, sharpness is not as important if acceptable, but razor sharp doesn't work with my older clientele with less than perfect skin. In most cases, I doubt my clients could tell the difference between these 2 setups.
Hi Matt, nice shootout! I shoot Nikon for digital (a trusty APS-C D7200) alongside my R6, so the comparison interests me. I like both but I tend to like the Summicron better than the Nikkor, not so much due to sharpness (which I do appreciate) but mainly due to the colors and skin textures. Summicrons and Summiluxes really excel at that - Kodak Portra 400 film looks particularly nice with the Summilux, by the way. The Nikon F mount and the Leica R mount have almost the same flange distance, so full-range R-mount lens adapters for F-mount cameras do exist but are effectively F-mount bayonets for R-system lenses. You have to pick a fine screwdriver and replace the bayonet. Possible, solid and fully functional, but not very practical, if you ask me... unless you only have a Nikon body and want to use R glass with it, then you can just replace all bayonets. I have a pair of these "adapters" but haven't got the nerve to try them yet... My Summilux 50mm f1.4 is particularly finicky to replace the bayonet. Never really considered the other way around, my F glass is practically all made for DSLR's and cannot be used on manual film cameras. If one is partial towards German glass and doesn't mind hunting it, a great alternative to the R6 is the Contax S2b. Fully manual, titanium body, essentially the same specs as the Nikon FM2n (as an apples-to-apples comparison since the FE2 is not fully manual; only the EV interval for the S2b's meter is slightly different - EV 2 - EV 20 instead of EV 1 - EV 18), which entails up to 1/4000 maximum shutter speed and 1/250 flash sync speed, as well as essentially the same weight (565g). It's also smaller than the R6 and the FM2n, and uses gorgeous Zeiss glass (Contax/Yashica mount). Finally, it has a slightly shorter flange distance than the R mount and the F mount, so it's easier to adapt lenses to it. For instance, M42 lenses can be adapted to the C/Y mount without losing infinity focus since the flange distance is practically the same. The only downside is the price, lower than the R6 / R6.2 but still more expensive than Nikons, particularly the S2b variant (its predecessor, the S2, has a slightly different finish and a spot meter instead of the centered meter of the S2b, but it goes somewhat cheaper), and its lenses which are not so easy to find, albeit relatively inexpensive for Zeiss standards. By the way, did you change your R6? The serial number and the film advance lever look different from the one you made a video review of... In fact, the film advance lever looks "right" now. Is the wobbling at the middle position gone?
Thanks Pedro! Lots of great information shared there, thank you! Yes I knew I should have used my FM2n for this test but I like the meter in the FE2. Great point though. Thanks re Summilux, if I can find an affordable one I’ll get one. You have a very good eye, I have 2 R6 now so can shoot colour & b&w (I have the 6.2 too) I didn’t plan to get all 3 but one was a deal too good not to get so will keep as spare (6.2 does same job but costs more so will probs my save that one). I need to compare both 6s without film in, at first I thought second one was better but later wasn’t sure. You should pick up some MF Nikon glass to play with! Thanks re Contax
Nice video! However the Summicron 50mm f/2.0 (m or r version) is a reference lens. The Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 isn't. Perhaps better to compare the Leica with one of Nikon's finest: the mf Nikkor 50mm f/1.4.
Thanks Mike! Yes Nikon feel more solid for sure. I have the Minolta X300. Very plastic feeling but actually very good. (Similar to my Nikon FG-20 in that small and light).
Nice Vid ! But please consider that a) you got a comparetively cheap lens on the Nikon (there are more expsv "standard" 1,4 or 2,0 lenses) and b) ... you can get Carl Zeiss lenses for Nikon !!! Maybe that would have been a more fair play ? Dont forget - the Cam itself is "just a hole" ... (i am a Nikon Fanboy anyway ...)
Thanks, yes great point. I had the Nikkor 50mm f1.4D and sold it as wasn't impressed (in my Nikon D800 days, I was a Nikon guy pre-2013 ish). I should use the Voigtlander Nokton 58mm f1.4 that I have. That's a strong performer and transforms a Nikon body (I love the F mount Voigtlanders, 20,28,40,58, see that video). The cheap Nikkor 50mm f2 AI would smash the Cron in this test, I got it after.
Great video Matt. I was always curious regarding leica R glass and cameras for that matter. The Nikon 50mm 1.8 pancake is a consumer grade standard lens which from what I've seen in the photos you posted tends to flare slightly giving a less contrasty and slightly muted look which I prefer for models over the R series images. If you were to use a Nikkor 50mm 1.8 the results would have been closer to the Leica if not better, love to see that comparison. Camera wise the FE2 is better for professional use and you touched on all the points. For me the sync speed is crucial for daylight fill and the 1/4000 shutter speed really helps maximise the speed of the lens, letting you shoot at F1.4 etc in daylight with say Kodak portra 160 a similar film to discontinued Kodak's professional VPS 160. giving you total control of the background focus. Now M glass compared to R glass, that is going to be interesting. Cheers
Thanks Gregory! My understanding is the v3 50 1.8 is above average optically but the Nikkor 50/2 AIS I now have is even sharper (see my 50mm shoot out video and that includes M & R too) :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes the 50mm F2 AIS is sharper the contrast is also better. A gem of a 50mm. Can't wait to see your 50mm shootout including the Leica M and R glass, will I be surprised? The M system has no mirror box, the rear of the lens is closer to the film plane so the images should be sharper. Did you use a M 50mm f2 Summicron? going to have a look. Cheers
@@gregoryvarano8002 thanks, I shot everything on a Leica body to keep it simple. I think RF vs SLR, is more important for wider lenses (being better as closer to film plane/ sensor). ..I won’t spoil it and tell you the winner. (There are several videos. 50s and fast 50s to name 2).
If I remember correctly, back in the day, that Leica lens had cost 3 to 4 times more than that Nikon lens. Nikon's lens was a consumer product, and Leica's, despite "only" f2, was not. So in my mind, a comparison test between 50's of f1,4 would be uch more fair.
Thanks Tomislav, the prices are the same now (or more different). I didn't have the Leica 1.4 as crazy expensive and hard to find so had to go with f2.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think Tomislav means that the Leica Summicron should have been compared to Nikon 50mm 1.4 since the 1.8 (like many other 50mm at the time) was a very cheap made lens.
@@Anarki2U ah thanks JC. I sold my 1.4D Nikon 50 as didn’t rate it. I might try to pick up a Nikkor 50 f2 as many people didn’t like the v3 pancake (well, they said there is better)
@@Anarki2U Yp true that. Almost all 50mm f1,7 / f1,8 / f1,9 / f2 lenses at the time where considered and sold as a kit lenses. All except those from Leica...
Enjoyed the video. That being said, it feels odd comparing the specs of film cameras. I'd venture to say most of us are hobbyists which makes taking photos more of a feel (emotional) thing than a technical one. Those lucky enough to afford Leica will enjoy the heritage and history. Those on more on a budget should feel happy that their better optioned Nikon (Canon, Olympus, etc.) can keep up with the more expensive Leica. I enjoy shooting my F3 over my M6 sometimes, but if i want technical superiority, I shoot digital. (ducks and hides) Keep the videos and comparisons coming though. I enjoy the education - even if my GAS flares up. ;)
Thank you! Yes it was partly for my own GAS. As a Leica boy I always want to show others than you can do the same with a cheaper camera, it just might not feel as nice to use. The R6 is more Nikon like than Leica anyway for me but a Leica RF camera or the Leicaflex. Those are beautiful cameras to operate!
Great video. Thanks. Would it be possible to have a video where you compare camera shutter vibration? I know that the Leica M3 is unbeatable in this, but never been able to find this from an Leica R6, Nikon FE or FM and that vibration is very helpful when you shoot at 1/60th of a second or lower. Cheers mate!
Thanks Pablo, yes RF cameras like the M3 are always better than SLR with mirror slap. The R6 sounds a lot more dampened but i've not tried shooting it really slow (SS) yet. I try to never use SLR less than 1/60 with models.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 1/60 is the final frontier in SLR no doubt. I feel that my Nikon F5, since it's so heavy and robust dampens some of the vibration if put on Slow advance I think. Mirror lock up also comes very handy while using a tripod.
Thank you, yes I never really use them although I have quite a few. It reduces the image quality unless it is optically as good as the lens. That adds a lot of cost of buying for nice lenses (but does protect it)
I agree with you that the Nikon pictures are more artistic and maybe more interesting at first sight. But I would prefer the Leica. Not only because I'm also a Leica fanboy. The flares are a nice effect, but I like the Leica colors much more at the end of the day. But I have another comment. The ideal sparring partner for the Leica R6 is the Nikon FM2 with its manual shutter. But the shutter of the Nikon is much more advanced and with 1/4000s 2 times faster than the improved Leica R6.2 with 1/2000s. And the flash sync speed is with 1/250s also much faster but still very slow compared to leaf shutters ;-). But it's the glass that makes the difference. I remember 15 years ago when I was very active in a photo forum. One guy said that all these Canon lenses are crap compared to Leica Lenses. So he adapted the Leica R Lens to his Canon camera, and the difference was just enormous. But at this time, Leica was on another planet for me.
Unfortunately, this comparison is Apples-to-Oranges. - A better & more fair comparison would be to compare the Leica R5 to the FE2 - The R6 is fully manual; read the meter with a mechanical shutter. The R5 on the other hand, has Automatic settings with an electronic shutter. Finally, the Leica units have the choice of Center weight or Spot metering; the FE2 does have its convenient push-in the self-timer Memory Lock...
Thanks yes good point. I have the R5 and R7 now, see that video. I should have done R6 vs FM2 which is full manual but the FE2 is my most used Nikon, that’s why I did this.
Thanks Ryan, I had to Google K series as I’m less up to speed on some Nikon stuff. I might try to get the f2 to see how it compares to my v3 pancake :)
Matt, are you sure you can adopt M42 lenses on Nikon FE2? I understand there is infinity focus issue due to flange distance unless you use the adapter with an extra lens, which I understand usually ruins lens quality/characteristic. How are you managing this?
You’re comparing lenses … but also, you did not mention Leica R bodies have some great features, superb metering, good handling, very smooth and quiet operation, and for us with glasses on, a built in adjustable diopter (this made the decision for me). All the images were good - I preferred the sharper ones with better mid tones and no loss in the highlights, and those were mostly Leica. But a cheap 50/1.8 … you could have done better to compare against the Summicron R, arguably one of the finest primes ever made. The weight of the Leica gear is a major strike against them, and while the VF is brighter with less color cast than most, surprisingly bright actually. sometimes feel less crisp on the periphery than Canon (what I can compare to). Still - you haven’t reviewed it here, but the R7 is really the cream of the crop in the R line and second to none - the 8 & 9 are even heavier and bigger and more expensive than can be justified, and at that point why not have AF … but I digress.
Thanks Elias, I am a Leica R fan boy but I was trying to compare them as tools. Yes agree I love the diopter on the Rs. I have R5,6,6,6.2,7 and have another video to come for the 5 vs 7 when I get time. I love the look of the Cron on the camera but I have better performing lenses, especially RF camera 50s but even cheap Nikon. The Nikkor 50 f2 AI kills the Cron wide open and costs £50.. which annoys me ha.
Hi Matt it's been a while since we've had a chat. Not that I haven't be watching any of your videos but just haven't left any comments but missed this Nikon one lol as you know I'm a kinda basis towards Nikon but that's probably because I've had no personal experience with Leica. Anyway great video as usual but have you ever tried the Kodak vision3 or Fuji eterna in 250d and processes in ecn2, Nik and Trick in Folkestone sell both films and chemicals or they can ecn2 process or what about Kodak xx B&W cinema film. I'm currently playing around with on my now on my "slightly" larger collection, I'm up to 16 slr's Nikon and Minolta and probably the same amount of old Agfa, Kodak and Zeiss medium format folders all working or I've restored/fixed. And we all know you like your gear small and light but you should give some of the other Nikon 50mm lenses a try f1.4, f2 and i think there's 2 or 3 other f1.8 manual focus or even the AFD lenses.
Thanks and sorry I missed this. Yes I bulk roll my own Vision3 50D, 200T, 500T and I bought a 400ft roll of fresh XX (great film!). See my Flickr or the blog or the video on Vision3 film. Sorry for the lack of Nikon! :) I have more to come I keep getting distracted by new M lenses releases. Stay tuned... the Nikkor 50 f2 AI will come at some point as one example. Great lens!
This is really a comparison of lenses . The film and lens are the key components . The Leica lens was better. I nikon with a lens hood would perform better
Funny. The title of this made me watch. I have a NikonFA and a LeicaR7 - close enough. I’m a street shooter and hoped the R7 was going to be ‘it,’ but I just like the Nikon. The R7 body I bought last year was barely used. Hard to believe. I started shooting when there was no digital option; yes I’m that old. I also have a LeicaflexSL that I prefer over the R7. Back to the R7 and FA; the FA just fits in my hands better, it’s smaller, lighter. When I’ve taken a keeper photo with the FA, I really like it. I bought a Summicron-R 35mm 1:2
Oops hit post by accident. I bought the 35mm for the R7 - that lens is now happily attached to my digital Leica CL with a Metabones adapter. The R7 body is in a cabinet right now.
Yes agreed the Nikon bodies gives a much smaller setup and can take very nice photos (I love the Voigtlander SL lenses in Nikon F mount (super small and amazing optics). See that video. I tend to use the FM2 and FE2 the most for Nikon.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I watched that the other day. You liked the shutter speed dial with the 'Off' switch; that's one of the things I don't like. The Nikon film advance lever just switches off the light meter. I'm forever reminding myself to turn the meter off on the R7 so I don't run the batteries down.
How do you deal with the reverse focus throw of Nikkor lenses vs Leica (and Zeiss, Canon etc.)? I'm a Leica shooter and I really am afraid of messing with my muscle memory.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I ran all of them in film days for the frigid cold Mt Hood to hot humid desert I only trust a hand full of cameras Leica SL, Sl2, R6, Nikon 2, FM2, Canon F1 old version, Canon EF. Proven for me over 30 years. I have seen students cameras failed left and right high end and low end, filter freeze up can't unscrew from lens etc... Meter died N90s, F5, Contax G1-G2
@@1911geek thank you. I have the SL and R6 (see those videos) FM and FM2. I have seen a R6 with sticking shutter but I’m sure manual bodies normally beat electronic. I’d take manual for hot/ cold trips. I was using a Kiev4a and Leica M4-P in Poland in minus -5 to -9 a few weeks ago (you’ll see the snow in the next video again)(following the recent 90mm video from Poland)
As a long time Nikon user I have to admit that I prefer the Leica images (but as others have pointed out the recessed front element gives the R lens an advantage). Then again sharpness isn't everything and a lens can sometimes be almost too sharp for shooting models? I own a Mamiya c330 and when researching recently I read somewhere that the earlier c330 lenses are actually shaper than the later versions? Apparently the main market for the c330 at the time were wedding and portrait photographers who were complaining that the lenses were too sharp, and so when Mamiya brought out the newer versions they toned down the sharpness slightly. Not sure if it's true but it's an interesting theory.
Thanks WG, I normally like Leica but I loved the Nikon results in this case. I guess we like what we don't normally see! :) Very interesting about the M C330, thanks for sharing that and yes I can believe it! I don't have that camera but I looked at it many times. I have 2 TLR I need to use more and quiet a few other Mamiya - 645, RZ, 6, 7..
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Well Matt, you have a Mamiya 6 and I'm guessing it's the interchangeable lens version which costs an arm and a leg? But...have you ever used the Mamiya 6 Automat? I just got one of these a few days ago and I'm after running a roll through to check for light leaks (there's none). It's similar to your Voigtlander Perkeo which you reviewed previously (which I also have). It's a bit taller and wider than the Perkeo but still fits into a coat pocket. The lens is a sharp Olympus Zukio 75mm f3.5. However it also has some big advantages over the Perkeo. When you wind on it also cocks the shutter It has a built in rangefinder, and focusing is by a thumbwheel which moves the film plane. It's actually a joy to use and much faster than the Perkeo. I can't be sure because the negs are still drying but the Zuiko lens looks to be on a par with the Voigtlander Color-Skopar of the Perkeo also. I got mine from Japan and prices are roughly the same as for the Perkeo. If you're curious you should take a look at a review by a UA-camr called Martin Henson who takes it for a spin on the Yorkshire Dales and runs through it's features.. It's well worth a look.
@@thewildgoose7467 thanks WG, yes my Mamiya 6 is the now expensive one. I know your camera too. I have a similar camera that was cheaper so I got that instead. Video to come in that. I need to use it more first but the lens is amazing. Thanks for mentioning the other video.
Thanks, yes I did it a bit cack-handled in the video as I was trying to film it. On the R6 you load to the right then pull to the left, the opposite of most cameras.
So much work..... But ok, it´s what you get paid for, right? Just joking. In fact, you are not really comparing the Fe2 to the R6 but the Summicron to the Nikon pancake. Which is a little bit unfair to Nikon. The pancake was the cheapest 50mm in production and there are 50mm lenses that are far better than it. I have compared (not on so beautiful models, but a very attractive bookshelf :-( ) some of the other lenses to my (since sold, not because of the quality, but to get some money for other stuff) Summicron and found out, that the larger 1,8/50mm as well es the AF 1,8 50mm come very close to the summicrons image quality. And the older f2/50mm is even better. The only 50mm I never owned is the pancake. A pity, so I can´t test it against the others... As you may know: I like your work a lot!!!! Its a pity, you no longer are part of the EU, I otherwise could have sent you some of my lenses for trying out yourself. Best regards, Stephan
Thanks Stephan, very kind! Mine is the v3 Japanese pancake not the basic one and I find it optically better. I’ve had 501.4D AF and didn’t rate it and 501.8G, sharp but sterile. Sold both. I might look for an old f2 :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom In Austria we have plenty of breathtaking women…. If you ever decide to see for yourself, give me a headsup, it would be a pleasure to help you out with some lenses;-)
Tidbit: durling the Viet Nam war, the US Army ditched Leicas for Nikons because they were more rugged and more reliable. They could also be field cleaned by removing top and covers and pouring cheap Russian vodka through them to wash out the dirt.
Honnestly, if you would put all the pictures of the Ladies together on a table asking me to make 2 piles : one for Leica and the other for Nikon, . . . it would be a very difficult task. I regret that you did not gave us a few B+W images to compare. Nevertheless you have done a Great job, a video to look more than once. Comparing prices on Ebay confirms 1 of your 5 points pro Nikon. I can assure you that I do not "hate" you for highlighting Nikon. The Winner takes it All ! Greetz, Roger.
Hi Matt need your advise. Should I buy the 7artisans 35mm f 5,6 or the lens mate 18mm f8? You have tested them, witch to go for. Keep posting and I keep following Per
I would go for the 18mm for sure. It is better on a RF camera to focus (as everything is in focus)(focus scale on the 35mm is not so good so really need EVF to use it). 18mm is smaller and lighter + cheaper too! :) More videos soon! :)
Leica wins for this round, but it's not fair. Better to compare 55mm micro with Leica 50mm Cron. By the way, since you got the R6, you don't use the Leicaflex SL anymore?
Thanks Michael! The Micro will blow the pants off the Cron lol. (see the video I did testing sharp 50s for Nikon) I use R6 much more with models as I can see quickly and easily. For non models the SL is much nicer to operate (film advance).
Any Leica R6 third party lenses and other things? No problem. How about the lenses made by Angenieux, Novoflex, Schneider and Tamronfitting to a leica R6? The 200 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm and 600 mm Novoflex and Tamron lenses have Leica R fast focusing systems. Macro bellows, tele 2x converterand with Leica R mount,. Adapters for microscope,film duplicator, ringflash etc. As long as I can act as a tinker, I can fix it. If you wish I can bolt a Leica R6 to a 4 x 5 view camera.
I vehemently disagree! The FE2 images have more contrast and clarity than the Leica R6 renditions in these examples. The R6 images look slightly flat. Get them checked by your optometrist if you don't believe me. Your eyes that is, not the photos. Besides, her breasts look bigger in the FE2 pictures. Not my opinion Matt, it's a fact ;-) The FE2 brings out the beauty of everything it sees ;-) Great comparison video and sincerely appreciated.
R body will work with the lens but to be honest, Nikon bodies are smoother. To adapter the Leica R to Nikon F, you will need to remove the Leica mount and cams and install a Nikon mount. This adoption process is reversible.
The only issue is I think the modified Leica R lens does not have auto diaphragm. It’s not a problem for people who likes to shoot with lens wide open. It may be an issue if someone wants to focus with lens stopping down.
I think in terms of reflex Nikon is superior to Leica in almost all areas except the lenses - even if comparing the 50mm f2 sumicron to 50mm f1.8 pancakes os not fair … you should have taken at least the 50mm f1.4 … with a lens hood… you know these little metal or plastic part which prevents the flare ;) - and the … noise of the shutter :). Then for the colors … with Lightroom in 2022, it doesn’t means a lot (it was not the same at negative times ). The fe2 with the high cost fm3a (who should have been name fe3) are probably the best Nikon ever made
But the charm of using an r5 or an r7 with a Leica prime is something difficult to explain and when you tasted it , it s difficult to go back… I got 5 Nikon cameras , 3 Leicas but I now only use my r5 or r7 for b&w negatives… and my fe2 is waiting ah home :)
Yes sorry I now have the Nikkor 50 f2 AIS which is much sharper at f2 vs the Leica. (See my 50s shoot out videos). Agree re. option to fix colours after.
Have you seen my R5 vs R7 video :) you might be able to relate. Agree, Nikon can take nice photos, I have 9 I think but unless weight is a factor I would pick up R bodies instead. (Unless I need the FL from Nikkor lenses).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes I saw it… and I also got R5 and R7 (they are FAR cheaper than when they were new…) and it s a real pleasure to take photo with them. So I do think nikon reflex of that time are superior but I have more pleasure to take b&w photos with my two Leica R… this just means the link you have with a camera is not only linked to high perfs but also and mainly to pleasure… and if you have pleasure taking photos , you take more picture with them( we love pleasure don t we ?)…
Thanks, there are different copies of these lenses, E and non E-series, some are better than others. The Nikkor 50mm f1.4 AIS and 50mm f2 AIS are both very good.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It's important to note that one of the reasons the R6 and R6.2 are so pricey is that they are fully manual and mechanical, vs the PASM/electronic R4/5/7 and R8/9. I love shooting with my R9 but the R6.2 is still my favorite.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I have a R6.2 which I love how it handles and the shutter sound is wonderful. I also have a Nikon F3, FE2 and FM2. The Nikons don't handle the same as the R6.2
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom given that, as far as I’m aware, and I could be wrong, the R6.2 is only a small update from the R6, not sure of the value of this video. I bought the 6.2 because it is newer and any electronics in it are likely to last a little bit longer.
The strongest 2 things of Leica R4,5,6 is the meter damn accurate, and the prism is brightest of all 135mm cameras and the focusing screen is so precise that you will never miss focusing.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Most people will chase after good sharp lens. But most important on top of a good sharp lens is you can focus the image damn sharp. In that respect, the Leica R4,5,6 with their super bright prism and precise never miss focusing screen is advantageous tool for you, especially to those with not so good eyes or older shooters.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom That would be great! I mainly shoot 50s. For my EL2, F2, FM, and FE2 I have the Nikon 1.2AIS, 1.4 Non-AI, and 2.0 AI. The 1.2 AIS gets the most use.
@@TwangThang57 I have the 1.2! Amazing lens. Just bought f2 AI, see my Nikon 50s video and FE2vsFM + others vid, I’ve done about 8 or 9 Nikon vids so far, ooo and the Voigtlander lenses for Nikon video! Those lenses are great!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom The 2.0 is great. For years it was my only 50. Tho’ for sharpness at 2.0 or 2.8, the 1.2 has no equal! And yes, I have watched your other videos…….
I would not expect anyone buying 50 Summilux 1.4 R lenses for tests against a Nikon 50mm 1.4... just for the fun of it. Curious about using outdated film....looking for an 'old-time' effect?
The Nikon 50mm lens your using there is not great. A better comparison would have been the AI or AI-s lenses (even though I understand the lens you have there is compact which is good for travel). I’ve done a comparison test between Nikon AI-s and Leica R lenses, and there is not a lot in it at all - colour and contrast were very, very similar, bokeh slightly better on the R lenses but not as much difference as you would think. When it comes to colour, there was almost no perceivable difference between the Nikon and Leica lenses so I do wonder perhaps if the home developing setup in anyway contributed to the colour balance difference you saw. I presume though that these were multiple rolls of film all with the same colour balance difference? I have kept both systems but I would choose the Nikon for a project because I have more lenses for it and I trust the bodies just that much more, the R6 is a nice body too. Definitely cheaper to set up a Nikon system fairly cheaply compared to the Leica.
Thanks for commenting, yes I since bought the 50mm f2 AI lens and I really like it. This lens is more warmer in colour than my v3 pancake so this might just be a lens variation. Agreed Nikon offer excellent value. (Currently shooting with a R6 and FM2). :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom that’s great. For the moment, I’ve settled on using the F100 with the FM2n. I’d happily use the FM2n all day but the autofocus and quick exposure potential with the F100 is sometimes helpful. The autofocus lenses however are not great to use on the FM2n so I usually take a AI-s 28, 35, 50, 105. And a couple of autofocus lenses for the F100. I’ve got an SL2 as well and I see you have the SL, they’re both great cameras. The one thing I like about the FE2 over the FM2n is the internal viewfinder light meter, I really like that metering needle, but having an all manual camera is worth that small difference in the end especially for travel.
@@carlomac great to hear you have the SL2 also. I had the F100 (see that video) but sold it as I mostly use MF lenses. I agree I like the FE2 meter the best! 👌🏻
well trying out a 75-200 f4.5 Leica & the Tamron 35-135 f3.5 + 80-210 SP Lenses which my photographic buddy Rich had referred to as being very good pre AF era zoom lenses. I used to have a Nikon EM before getting a Canon A1 back in 1985. Oh, Matt nothing wrong with the comparative materials in the vlog. Great stuff!
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I personally think the Nikon FE2 with Nikkor pancake lens wins here. Nikon FE2 is an awesome camera and you're not just limited to Nikkor lenses - you can also use magnificent lenses from Zeiss with it, for example Zeiss Distagon 28mm f2 that is available for Nikon F mount. Zeiss glass combined with the classic Nikon film camera hardware is unbeatable combo in my opinnion.
Yes great point. I love the look of that 28mm f2 lens. I nearly bought it years ago when I shot only Nikon.
I would like to see this again using a regular 50mm Nikkor instead of that pancake.
Thanks Thomas, The v3 pancake is a strong performer normally, it seemed to match the Summicron quite well for sharpness but suffered from more flare than expected. It is the Japanese one not the cheapo E series ones. I have those too. I don't have a normal 50 f2, only the 1.2 and I sold my 1.4s 1.8 AF ones as didn't need/ use.
The Nikkor 50mm 2.0 is much better than the 1.8 versions I have used. I got my 2.0 with a Nikkormat FTN and was modified to Ais. Not as soft as the 1.8 wide open and much more contrast, even wide open. My Summicron Rigid is much softer, but as sharp as the Nikon 2.0.
Both are stellar lenses and served me well
The Nikkor léns should have had a lens hood mounted. Then the results would be more equal.
@@chrisreich40 thanks Chris, I’m used to not needing hoods on most of the lenses I use but yes I will do so in future. I know I can think of more excuses to do future tests :)
The only"regular" Nikkor 50mm is the long nose AI or older. From 1981 and later, all are pancakes, until AF.
That was a lot of work involved. A very interesting and excellent presentation, as usual. You are certainly quite a knowledgeable professional. Thank you again. RS. Canada
Thanks Richard, yes in hindsight the film reviews might not be worth the additional time and work from the film point as less interest in film vs new lenses but sometimes I do it for myself as I want to know. Thanks for the feedback! P.S. you can see the review results better here - mrleica.com/leica-r6-vs-nikon-fe2/
I like the Nikkor images better, richer color. The sharpness seems comparable. Lower contrast may contribute to the richer colors with the Nikon glass. Really, it's the difference between the lenses and not the cameras, wouldn't you agree?
Thanks William, yes 100% the lenses but as you (I) use them as systems I was comparing the 2 setups I would carry for model shoots. For better results from the Nikon I'd use the 58mm Voigtlander but I wanted to test the pancake as that is my ideal travel 50.
As an avid Nikkor Ais prime lense shooter, I would suggest trying a Nikkor 55mm f/2.8 micro Ai/Ais lense next time if your looking for razor sharp images that par with leica glass. Shoot between f/5.6-f/11. Unimaginable bokeh at f/5.6! Just be aware that the focusing requires added twist(s) beings its a micro lense. Nikon still manufactures and sells this cult-like-status lense. It's my very favorite Nikkor lense...hands down! I'm not a collector/hoarder, but am really intrigued with what I've read about the Voightlander 58mm and 40mm Nikkor/ F-mount lenses. Could be a match made in heaven for your FE2!
Hi Noel, thanks and welcome! It sounds like we are well aligned! See my Voigtlander for Nikon video (I use 20,28,40,58 on FE2!) and the sharpest 50 video (I have 2 copies of the 55/2.8 - amazing lens!) AND see last nights video.. Nikon vs Leica, the revenge match haha (not the title).. but wait til you see the results! :)
I have the 55 micro 2.8 and the 1.8 and 1.4 brothers as well. I shoot the 55 as my main lens on my F3 because of the close focusing love this little lens
@@terrywbreedlove Glad to hear that your a Nikkor micro fan too. Really nice match with your F3 and balance of weight body/lense. Have not had a chance to shoot the faster 1.8 lense, but nice to have in an available light situation! Nice collection Terry!
@@noelcameron7856 i have a boat load of Nikon stuff. I have a 135 F2 and a 28mm. I have the F3hp an F2 and i have two Fe cameras. Plus i have three AF Nikon cameras 🤣 and they have their lenses. My favorite is the 50mm 1.8 D but i also have the 85mm 1.8 D and the 80-200 F2.8. They just kind of collect up over the years.
@@terrywbreedlove thanks Terry! I’m currently enjoying the 50 f2 AI. See my sharpest 50 video to see the 55 perform amazingly well!
Shot with an FE2 in the 80’s. I’d buy one now for timeless black and white prints as the prints I have from them are still gorgeous! Thanks for this!
Thanks, yes you should!
The Leica lens skin tones and contrast look better to me and I feel like the Nikon lens looks a bit washed out with too much Magenta in a lot of the photos. I can say that the R6 and Summicron-R 50mm combo are a joy to shoot with and also a steal for the price. Great video and article, thank you!
Thanks! I later found I can convert R glass to F mount (see that video) so that makes for a strong combo too.
Nice thing about Google and UA-cam I did a seach of the Nikon FE2 $250 and wanted to compare it with the Leica M7 0.72 35mm Rangefinder Camera Body (Silver) $2900. It isn't the same comparison of what you are showing but helps me to decide if I want to get involwd with film cameras. Cheers1
Thanks Randall! Yes I use both a lot for my own research too!
Matt,
Excellent realistic comparison without sounding like a fan boy. So it comes down to a few basic technical and personal criteria.
1- Camera body: Technical features and how it fits in your hand.
2- Lenses: Quality, character and availability.
3- Price.
Thanks again,
FW
Thanks Frank!
When I sold these in the 80s I steered everyone away from Leica.Expensive and the reputation of their electronics was in question.Considering I never met a Rep from Leica the 5 years these things collected dust in the store contributed to my bias.I handled the FE2 everyday.Loved it then.Thanks for the nostalgic memories.
Thanks Tim! See my R5 vs R7 vid for electronic Leica Rs but yes I like the Nikon Fs too. Still use both.
Great Video Matt. Would be interesting to see results (instead of pancake) from a Nikkor 50mm f 1.4 ais with a decent hood. I bought a vented aluminum hood for mine courtesy of our Oriental Ebayers, and it adds very little to size and weight.
Thanks John, I have that exact same hood I think! :) I normally love the results from this less common Japanese pancake lens so i've never looked elsewhere.. I spent ages getting that lens and importing it. If I ever come across a 1.4 AIS I will try to compare. I sold my D and G fast lenses as prefer MF.
Leica wins. I love the richer colors and contrast. But I'm prejudiced, owning several Leica R cameras.
PS: I'd love and M vs R shootout. Lovely video.
Thank you Diane! Nice to have a female viewer here. Thanks yes the Leica shootout is on the list! :)
I'm a nikon fan.... FG in 1986 RIP in 1999.... FE F3 since.... One set of pics showed freckles on model, FE2. No freckles on Leica. I think R6 had a, 'dreamy', feel. Nice post.... ; )
Thanks Rocky! I love my FG-20 (I have 2!) I thought i'd get abuse if compared that to a Leica so used the FE2 as I like the needle meter vs FM2n. I still need to try the F3! :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I use the FE more than the F3. FE is relaxed, less conspicuous.... : )
@@rockycassiano4756 nice, yes I yes with no logo too it’s even more stealthy!
P.S. The blog sliders are great! Nice way to compare the images ... well done old man.
Thanks Nolan! :)
Nice video. Nikon, I also noticed more detail and texture with Nikon. There is more contrast with Leica, correct, however, for me texture is more important and wide range of tonalities.
Thanks! I later found I can convert Leica lenses to Nikon too. See that video. Best of both with one body!
It's all in the skin tones, Matt. The Leica lens renders so much better in this respect. Another great video and it's great to be able to compare the pics in your blog.
Thanks Graham!
To my eyes, the Nikon rendering is superior. Leica looks yellow and insipid. Whether the film processing has ahd anything to do with it or not is another story.
nice video Matt, I have fun with this mint FE2 I got...will see the first rolls in a couple of days
Thanks Ansgar! Congrats! Very nice camera :)
shot nikon and nikkor ai glass for 20 years now and always felt that my photos felt a bit flat and and cold. never understood why until this week i tried a leica M6 with a voigtlander ultron. i fellt in love and will be buying that setup and retiring my nikon gear for the time being.
Welcome to Leica! Congrats on your M6. I'm not anti Nikon and enjoy the film cameras but moved from the D800 as the files were flat and boring. (There's plenty of Leica info on here - 260+ videos & on the blog - MrLeica.com if you need it)
Nice, Mr. Leica and a London field trip to boot! I previously bought a Nikkor Pancake V3 based on your recommendation and am now planning to use it with a small hood to scare off flare. I also stumbled onto a Nikon FM3A that is on its way. Finding the best gear via your channel is rather spoiling me Matt, and I have now sworn off my Chardonnay salutes during online shopping. Not easy to do BTW. - Best regards from the field, Nolan
Thanks! Yes I have a hood so will use with the pancake in future I think. Congrats on your FM3A, very nice!
Matt
Great video!
You may want to try the R to L, M to R and the R to M adapters to get the most out of your lenses and bodies
This is one advantage over Nikon for a Leica enthusiast like you
All the very best
Thanks Ronald! Yes I do, see my other videos. I use L-M then M-R or M-R directly on the M240. Great lenses!
I had and have many cameras but the Nikon FE2 ist the only one I never had sold at any point in time. Put a 2/50mm Ai on it instead of the 1,8/50mm Ais and it will be a much closer match to the Summicron especially on b&w and it will also have less busy bokeh.
Thank you! I later bought the 50/2 AI and used it last week actually
I slightly prefer the Leica photos, but that's down to the superior glass, I think :-) Those Leica R lenses are seriously good!
I have the original FE and an R6, and I like them both a lot. The FE/Voigtländer 40mm F2 combo is my favourite for a carry-around compact SLR kit. The R6/Summilux R 50mm is what I use for ultimate resolution and just all around goreousness!
Thanks Don! Yes great choice on the 40mm! I go one further and use it on the FG-20 :) - even smaller and lighter than FEs/FMs. Summilux - Nice! Still my #1 in M mount (don't have in R mount)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom The Summilux is just as good in R mount, but focuses much closer! :-) I have it in M mount too, it's probably my favourite lens.
@@thedondeluxe6941 I know!! I will pick one up if find at a good price. I would like one :)
I have no knowledge of the Leica, but I have the FE2 and 50,35 and 28mm fast ais primes and have no complaints.
Great, I still use Nikon too and love them
I'd never even heard of the R6! Thanks for enlightening me.
Thanks Dominic, I'm new to R cameras too but so glad I discovered them! :)
Hey Matt:
I’ve found your comment on the Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 truly amazing.
You admitted you liked the “imperfect” rendering of the Nikkor over the Leica. As I see it the Nikkor’s image is less analytical or “digital” which satisfies many who like that quality…!
Thanks Anthony, yes agree I liked the imperfect look. The colours and flare.
FE2 was my first Nikon and I loved it with my MD12 motordrive. I still have it all with my 20mm f2 Nikor lens.
Great! Even as a Leica guy I do enjoy the FE2 now and again (I would use it more if I wasn't a Leica channel/ brand!)
The shutter speed is indeed an issue as this is the case with the Leica M7. Otherwise I prefere the Leica by far. I shoot with a Leica R8 and a max. shutter speed of 1/8000 s is fine. The Leica R lenses can also be adapted to the M-System and the SL-System (M-Mount) but yes maybe lenses can not be adapted to the R. Nikon lenses may be cheaper but a lot of the Leica R lenses have increased in value. (please judge not my English, since it is not my native language)
Thank you. English is perfect. Yes agree with everything you said. R8 - nice! :) ..my R6.2 gives me 1/2000 but Nikon still win with 1/4000 if needed. Yes I enjoy R glass on SL.
Very nice video, but you could have used a better Nikon lens (not a pancake) 😉. I liked the Leica photos more in this case - because I prefer warmer tones. The blog post is great.
Thanks Kim, A few people said this. It is the Japanese kick ass v3 pancake, not a crappy one. It's a great lens, my go to for Nikon if want small. Voigtlander 58mm if want the best, or 55mm Micro for non-models...or 1.2 for nice bokeh :)
Thanks for your reply. I do love you content.
@Kim Jensen, You're right about bad choice of lens to compare to here!!! This pancake is a Series E variety lens. In fact there is a pancake-ish lens in Series E 50mm f1.8, exact optical design, which I own and occasionally use. Even then, this pancake has better contrast and clarity than Matt's Leica R lens he used here. Which is not a bad thing. I have a German born Elmarit-R 90mm that I use when I want less contrasty, glow-ey portraits. And use Nikkors or Zeiss to poke people in the eye, or to have them count leaves on a tree without much difficulty.
As for warm and cool tones, it hardly matters these days with digital editing of film scans. If you were going to print Cibachromes, then MAYBE! And if shooting b&w films, like any respectable art photographer should, the color tint of lenses do not matter at all! Does it? Although it makes for interesting UA-cam video topic to chill with.
@@ghosttownsentinel5288 I agree with you regarding digital editing, - that is why I don't under stand the hype about film "receipies" in Fuji cameras. I used to have 3 of them, now only X-T2 remains.
I just shoot raw and edit the way I want. If I want it to look like film, I shoot film 😁
@@KimHojbergJensen I couldn't have said it better. I subscribe to the same sentiment. 👍
I have the R6.2 and love the look of the photos that I get from it. I also shoot (less frequently) an FM2 and other Nikons, but always prefer the Leica photographs.
Thanks Steve! I do enjoy using my Leica R6 (more than Nikons, but they work fine too).
For Nikon camera nerds. It’s the Japanese market (closer focus version) 50/1.8 short nose! 😆 …. FE2’s are such underrated cameras. I like the 50/1.8 ai lens more than the short nose. Btw, you generally can’t focus to infinity with M42 lenses for F mount.
Leica R stuff is so nice. I prefer my Contax Zeiss lenses though. Zeiss lenses have a great cinematic look to them, which have a distinctly different look to my Nikon F mount lenses.
Great video and review. Thanks! 👍
Thanks VR! Yes correct about M42 not going to infinity but for portraits they are OK. Thanks about Zeiss stuff. I have some Zeiss M mount and CRF mount. Asking for a Nikon geek help, what is the best performing cheap 50? The 50 f2 ai/pre-ai?
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom all the Nikon 50’s are pretty good. People like the 50/2, but it has the most distortion. I like the 50/1.4 ai-s for wider apertures, all the 50/1.8 ai/ai-s) all perform about the same, the 55 2.8 & 3.5’s are really good too. The pre-ai 50/2 is a nice looking small lens though, and I wouldn’t mind shooting with it.
The lowest price for performance Nikkor 50’s would probably be the 50/2, 50/1.8 ai, or 55/3.5 micro. But to me, all Nikon 50’s around the same price, within the $50-150 US price range. … except the 50/1.2 or 58/1.2.
A lot of people like the Series E 50/1.8 too. It’s single coated, so it’s best for B&W. But it can flare like crazy in bright light. Same optical design as the Nikkor version short noses though.
@@JP1050x thanks! Great info! I’m pretty good on Leica gear but less so with Nikon stuff I’ve not used. Yes I rate the cheap E series 50, I have 2 versions + the v3 one. The Micro lenses are the best performers for me to too sharp for my female portraits. I didn’t rate the 50 1.4D or 50 1.8G so sold those. I like the size of the v3 pancake but might look at a f2 as most comments on this video mentioned it ha. I’m a sucker for small lenses so I’ll look at the old ones. (I think I can then use on my FE if pre-Ai from memory). Cheers!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Nikon didn’t really make a lot of small lenses in F mount. The 50/1.8 short nose you have is probably going to be as good as you get.
However, the Nikkor 105/2.5 is pretty good for a relatively compact portrait lens. Nikon sold a ton of them after Steve McCurry made that Afghan Girl photo. They made a nice Sonnar version in pre-ai that not a lot of people know about. Although, the 105/2 and 135/2 DC lenses are stellar for film portraits.
Otherwise, the 50/1.2 or Noct 58/1.2 would probably be great portrait lenses if you prefer more normal focal lengths.
Great photographs, the red heads blue eyes are amazing. I am surprised that there are noticeable colour differences. The Leica pics look more saturated which might be down to better exposure. The Nikon pics could maybe have done will a little less light but there are also flare issues. The skin colours from the Nikon look more natural, the Leica is a bit waxy.
Thanks Robert! Yes a nice model always helps :) Yes I preferred the Nikon skin tones too
I have had both. Loved my R7. Loved, it. Nikon left me cold.
Great! I still own both and use both but I currently use Nikon more. (I adapter a 50R lens to it so can get identical photos)
Yes I can see the difference but it’s difference in the lenses and film properties and processing I think. Cameras are just light-tight exposure boxes. Great video though. I own FM, FM2, FE, FE2, FM3A, and M6 TTL. Agreed Voigtlander F Mount lenses are fabulous. The M Mount lenses they make are great too.
Thanks Brad, agreed. You might appreciate a video I have coming ;) Say no more! I did a video on the bodies you mentioned, you may have already commented on it, sorry I lose track. Yes love the F mount Voigtlanders! Vids on them too + all the M ones ofc.
Beautiful both ! Having the Nikon FE 50mm pancake since last year, and just bought the Leica r4s without lens, looking to purchase summitar 50mm f2 or the summilux 50mm f1.4 for it, vario elmar 35-70mm f3.5 doesn't seems a bad choice for all around portrait, street and hollydays, and looks super cool on sony mirrorless cameras. Thanks
Thanks, the 35-70 is amazing, see that video. The Summilux is expensive, the Summicron v2 is very nice.
I didn't realize you were using an Epson v800 for scanning your negatives, you should try mirrorless scanning with your Leica SL,
I was able to put together a system for about $150 Canadian that was noticeably sharper and had better colour then the Epson flatbed scanner I used up until 2022.
It also greatly reduces scan and processing time down to about 20 to 30 seconds an image including cropping and running the Photoshop script I developed to invert and colour correct the negative
Thanks for reaching out Dylan, I messaged you back on Insta.
good comparison Matt (: I like the colour and the lighting looks good in your video.
I travel now w/ my Nikon FA and I just realized its the same 625g as your Leica but it feels smaller and much lighter then an F3P I used to carry at 880g or so.
Thanks! Yes some Nikon are light. FG20 is my lightest. FM2 next.
I use Leica-M and Nikon-F. I noticed that in some images, the Leica had more distortion! The Nikkor was OK. I prefer the contrast of Nikkor. The 50mm pancake lens you used is open to flare, use a regular Nikkor..The FE much noisier .Very pretty model. Great processing.
Thank you Jason! Yes I try different Nikkor lens next time, thanks. Perhaps the f2. I was surprised about the noise/grain too.
Great video but not sure why you compared the manual R6 tot the electronic FE2 instead of the mechanical FM2.
Thanks Thomas, yes many days the same. I just compared my favourite from each system though I have the FM2 too. They Nikons are take the same photos of course.
Awesome video Matt. Great review on Nikon and Leica.
Both camera and lens. I never own Leica camera or lens but one day I’ll own one.
I’ve own so many Nikon 50mm both Manuel and AF. But I find my Nikkor 50mm 1.8Ai-s pancake is the sharpest.Than of course my Zeiss otus 55mm is big and heavy to carry it around when travelling.
I value small size and weight, and appreciate that f/1.8 lenses have better optical performance then f/1.4 lenses.
Looking forward to your next video.
Cheers mate
Thank you! Yes I’m a sucker for smaller gear too :)
Great comparison. Lovely shots. Thanks for all the links! IMHO I prefer Leica. Nikon has an abundance of lenses, but that doesn't sway me personally. It has that certain something....Je ne sais quois.
Thanks Lucy! As you know I normally shoot Leica so i'm usually with you on this :) I know the R glass is normally amazing but I did like the blue tones from the Nikon in these :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It's always good, and fun to try out other gear as well. 2 thumbs up!
I wonder if the flare could be controlled with a lens hood. I have the pancake 50 but I often shoot the 58mm voigtlander 1.4 with a lens hood especially if shooting towards the sun. I wonder how that lens would have fared on the nikon. Contrast and color I can control in conversion and post. But depth/ subject separation and bokeh, those are pretty much baked in so more important lense characteristics. One of my favorite photo quotes is from Stieglitz when someone told him his shot wasn't sharp, he said it's not supposed to be. As a portraitist, sharpness is not as important if acceptable, but razor sharp doesn't work with my older clientele with less than perfect skin. In most cases, I doubt my clients could tell the difference between these 2 setups.
Thanks Bob, the 58 Nokton easily beats the Nikon lens. See my Nikon 50 test video that includes the 58.
Hi Matt, nice shootout! I shoot Nikon for digital (a trusty APS-C D7200) alongside my R6, so the comparison interests me. I like both but I tend to like the Summicron better than the Nikkor, not so much due to sharpness (which I do appreciate) but mainly due to the colors and skin textures. Summicrons and Summiluxes really excel at that - Kodak Portra 400 film looks particularly nice with the Summilux, by the way.
The Nikon F mount and the Leica R mount have almost the same flange distance, so full-range R-mount lens adapters for F-mount cameras do exist but are effectively F-mount bayonets for R-system lenses. You have to pick a fine screwdriver and replace the bayonet. Possible, solid and fully functional, but not very practical, if you ask me... unless you only have a Nikon body and want to use R glass with it, then you can just replace all bayonets. I have a pair of these "adapters" but haven't got the nerve to try them yet... My Summilux 50mm f1.4 is particularly finicky to replace the bayonet. Never really considered the other way around, my F glass is practically all made for DSLR's and cannot be used on manual film cameras.
If one is partial towards German glass and doesn't mind hunting it, a great alternative to the R6 is the Contax S2b. Fully manual, titanium body, essentially the same specs as the Nikon FM2n (as an apples-to-apples comparison since the FE2 is not fully manual; only the EV interval for the S2b's meter is slightly different - EV 2 - EV 20 instead of EV 1 - EV 18), which entails up to 1/4000 maximum shutter speed and 1/250 flash sync speed, as well as essentially the same weight (565g). It's also smaller than the R6 and the FM2n, and uses gorgeous Zeiss glass (Contax/Yashica mount). Finally, it has a slightly shorter flange distance than the R mount and the F mount, so it's easier to adapt lenses to it. For instance, M42 lenses can be adapted to the C/Y mount without losing infinity focus since the flange distance is practically the same. The only downside is the price, lower than the R6 / R6.2 but still more expensive than Nikons, particularly the S2b variant (its predecessor, the S2, has a slightly different finish and a spot meter instead of the centered meter of the S2b, but it goes somewhat cheaper), and its lenses which are not so easy to find, albeit relatively inexpensive for Zeiss standards.
By the way, did you change your R6? The serial number and the film advance lever look different from the one you made a video review of... In fact, the film advance lever looks "right" now. Is the wobbling at the middle position gone?
Thanks Pedro! Lots of great information shared there, thank you! Yes I knew I should have used my FM2n for this test but I like the meter in the FE2. Great point though. Thanks re Summilux, if I can find an affordable one I’ll get one. You have a very good eye, I have 2 R6 now so can shoot colour & b&w (I have the 6.2 too) I didn’t plan to get all 3 but one was a deal too good not to get so will keep as spare (6.2 does same job but costs more so will probs my save that one). I need to compare both 6s without film in, at first I thought second one was better but later wasn’t sure. You should pick up some MF Nikon glass to play with! Thanks re Contax
Nice video! However the Summicron 50mm f/2.0 (m or r version) is a reference lens. The Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 isn't. Perhaps better to compare the Leica with one of Nikon's finest: the mf Nikkor 50mm f/1.4.
Thanks, I later bought the Nikkor 50mm f2 AI which I love - budget price but a top performer!
I have both the 50 f/2 and 50 f/1.4 (non ai) both are great lenses
@@troyphillips1077 thanks Troy! Nice
Nikon vs Minolta - used both, both lovely with the Nikon feeling the toughest. 😎
Thanks Mike! Yes Nikon feel more solid for sure. I have the Minolta X300. Very plastic feeling but actually very good. (Similar to my Nikon FG-20 in that small and light).
Nice Vid ! But please consider that a) you got a comparetively cheap lens on the Nikon (there are more expsv "standard" 1,4 or 2,0 lenses) and b) ... you can get Carl Zeiss lenses for Nikon !!! Maybe that would have been a more fair play ? Dont forget - the Cam itself is "just a hole" ... (i am a Nikon Fanboy anyway ...)
Thanks, yes great point. I had the Nikkor 50mm f1.4D and sold it as wasn't impressed (in my Nikon D800 days, I was a Nikon guy pre-2013 ish). I should use the Voigtlander Nokton 58mm f1.4 that I have. That's a strong performer and transforms a Nikon body (I love the F mount Voigtlanders, 20,28,40,58, see that video). The cheap Nikkor 50mm f2 AI would smash the Cron in this test, I got it after.
Great video Matt. I was always curious regarding leica R glass and cameras for that matter. The Nikon 50mm 1.8 pancake is a consumer grade standard lens which from what I've seen in the photos you posted tends to flare slightly giving a less contrasty and slightly muted look which I prefer for models over the R series images. If you were to use a Nikkor 50mm 1.8 the results would have been closer to the Leica if not better, love to see that comparison. Camera wise the FE2 is better for professional use and you touched on all the points. For me the sync speed is crucial for daylight fill and the 1/4000 shutter speed really helps maximise the speed of the lens, letting you shoot at F1.4 etc in daylight with say Kodak portra 160 a similar film to discontinued Kodak's professional VPS 160. giving you total control of the background focus. Now M glass compared to R glass, that is going to be interesting. Cheers
Thanks Gregory! My understanding is the v3 50 1.8 is above average optically but the Nikkor 50/2 AIS I now have is even sharper (see my 50mm shoot out video and that includes M & R too) :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes the 50mm F2 AIS is sharper the contrast is also better. A gem of a 50mm. Can't wait to see your 50mm shootout including the Leica M and R glass, will I be surprised? The M system has no mirror box, the rear of the lens is closer to the film plane so the images should be sharper. Did you use a M 50mm f2 Summicron? going to have a look.
Cheers
@@gregoryvarano8002 thanks, I shot everything on a Leica body to keep it simple. I think RF vs SLR, is more important for wider lenses (being better as closer to film plane/ sensor). ..I won’t spoil it and tell you the winner. (There are several videos. 50s and fast 50s to name 2).
If I remember correctly, back in the day, that Leica lens had cost 3 to 4 times more than that Nikon lens. Nikon's lens was a consumer product, and Leica's, despite "only" f2, was not. So in my mind, a comparison test between 50's of f1,4 would be uch more fair.
Thanks Tomislav, the prices are the same now (or more different). I didn't have the Leica 1.4 as crazy expensive and hard to find so had to go with f2.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think Tomislav means that the Leica Summicron should have been compared to Nikon 50mm 1.4 since the 1.8 (like many other 50mm at the time) was a very cheap made lens.
@@Anarki2U ah thanks JC. I sold my 1.4D Nikon 50 as didn’t rate it. I might try to pick up a Nikkor 50 f2 as many people didn’t like the v3 pancake (well, they said there is better)
@@Anarki2U Yp true that. Almost all 50mm f1,7 / f1,8 / f1,9 / f2 lenses at the time where considered and sold as a kit lenses. All except those from Leica...
Best plan for those of us on a budget is a 'cheap-as-chips' Ricoh KR10 with any of the range of fully compatible Pentax lenses.
Thanks Paul! I'm not up to speed on these so thanks for the info.
Enjoyed the video. That being said, it feels odd comparing the specs of film cameras. I'd venture to say most of us are hobbyists which makes taking photos more of a feel (emotional) thing than a technical one. Those lucky enough to afford Leica will enjoy the heritage and history. Those on more on a budget should feel happy that their better optioned Nikon (Canon, Olympus, etc.) can keep up with the more expensive Leica. I enjoy shooting my F3 over my M6 sometimes, but if i want technical superiority, I shoot digital. (ducks and hides) Keep the videos and comparisons coming though. I enjoy the education - even if my GAS flares up. ;)
Thank you! Yes it was partly for my own GAS. As a Leica boy I always want to show others than you can do the same with a cheaper camera, it just might not feel as nice to use. The R6 is more Nikon like than Leica anyway for me but a Leica RF camera or the Leicaflex. Those are beautiful cameras to operate!
Great video. Thanks. Would it be possible to have a video where you compare camera shutter vibration? I know that the Leica M3 is unbeatable in this, but never been able to find this from an Leica R6, Nikon FE or FM and that vibration is very helpful when you shoot at 1/60th of a second or lower. Cheers mate!
Thanks Pablo, yes RF cameras like the M3 are always better than SLR with mirror slap. The R6 sounds a lot more dampened but i've not tried shooting it really slow (SS) yet. I try to never use SLR less than 1/60 with models.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 1/60 is the final frontier in SLR no doubt. I feel that my Nikon F5, since it's so heavy and robust dampens some of the vibration if put on Slow advance I think. Mirror lock up also comes very handy while using a tripod.
Very good comparison. Noticed that you don't have UV or protective filters on your lenses, any reason?
Thank you, yes I never really use them although I have quite a few. It reduces the image quality unless it is optically as good as the lens. That adds a lot of cost of buying for nice lenses (but does protect it)
I agree with you that the Nikon pictures are more artistic and maybe more interesting at first sight. But I would prefer the Leica. Not only because I'm also a Leica fanboy. The flares are a nice effect, but I like the Leica colors much more at the end of the day. But I have another comment. The ideal sparring partner for the Leica R6 is the Nikon FM2 with its manual shutter. But the shutter of the Nikon is much more advanced and with 1/4000s 2 times faster than the improved Leica R6.2 with 1/2000s. And the flash sync speed is with 1/250s also much faster but still very slow compared to leaf shutters ;-). But it's the glass that makes the difference. I remember 15 years ago when I was very active in a photo forum. One guy said that all these Canon lenses are crap compared to Leica Lenses. So he adapted the Leica R Lens to his Canon camera, and the difference was just enormous. But at this time, Leica was on another planet for me.
Thanks Alexander, I nearly used my FM2 as agree it is a better match but I enjoy my FE2 more so went with that. Agreed, I expected better from Leica!
A fun test. I really like these Leica vs X videos.
Thanks Jesse! Me too.. helps me appreciate Leica or other brands more
I’d love to own a Leica R9 but not use but put on a shelf just to look at
Ha thanks Barry! They do have a strong look! :)
Unfortunately, this comparison is Apples-to-Oranges. - A better & more fair comparison would be to compare the Leica R5 to the FE2 - The R6 is fully manual; read the meter with a mechanical shutter. The R5 on the other hand, has Automatic settings with an electronic shutter. Finally, the Leica units have the choice of Center weight or Spot metering; the FE2 does have its convenient push-in the self-timer Memory Lock...
Thanks yes good point. I have the R5 and R7 now, see that video. I should have done R6 vs FM2 which is full manual but the FE2 is my most used Nikon, that’s why I did this.
Enjoyed this one! K series 50 f2 spanks the pancake, almost as small. Still much prefer the oft of the Nikon.
Thanks Ryan, I had to Google K series as I’m less up to speed on some Nikon stuff. I might try to get the f2 to see how it compares to my v3 pancake :)
Matt, are you sure you can adopt M42 lenses on Nikon FE2? I understand there is infinity focus issue due to flange distance unless you use the adapter with an extra lens, which I understand usually ruins lens quality/characteristic. How are you managing this?
Yes I did it a lot, yes no infinity but ok for portraits.
You’re comparing lenses … but also, you did not mention Leica R bodies have some great features, superb metering, good handling, very smooth and quiet operation, and for us with glasses on, a built in adjustable diopter (this made the decision for me). All the images were good - I preferred the sharper ones with better mid tones and no loss in the highlights, and those were mostly Leica. But a cheap 50/1.8 … you could have done better to compare against the Summicron R, arguably one of the finest primes ever made. The weight of the Leica gear is a major strike against them, and while the VF is brighter with less color cast than most, surprisingly bright actually. sometimes feel less crisp on the periphery than Canon (what I can compare to). Still - you haven’t reviewed it here, but the R7 is really the cream of the crop in the R line and second to none - the 8 & 9 are even heavier and bigger and more expensive than can be justified, and at that point why not have AF … but I digress.
Thanks Elias, I am a Leica R fan boy but I was trying to compare them as tools. Yes agree I love the diopter on the Rs. I have R5,6,6,6.2,7 and have another video to come for the 5 vs 7 when I get time. I love the look of the Cron on the camera but I have better performing lenses, especially RF camera 50s but even cheap Nikon. The Nikkor 50 f2 AI kills the Cron wide open and costs £50.. which annoys me ha.
Hi Matt it's been a while since we've had a chat. Not that I haven't be watching any of your videos but just haven't left any comments but missed this Nikon one lol as you know I'm a kinda basis towards Nikon but that's probably because I've had no personal experience with Leica. Anyway great video as usual but have you ever tried the Kodak vision3 or Fuji eterna in 250d and processes in ecn2, Nik and Trick in Folkestone sell both films and chemicals or they can ecn2 process or what about Kodak xx B&W cinema film. I'm currently playing around with on my now on my "slightly" larger collection, I'm up to 16 slr's Nikon and Minolta and probably the same amount of old Agfa, Kodak and Zeiss medium format folders all working or I've restored/fixed. And we all know you like your gear small and light but you should give some of the other Nikon 50mm lenses a try f1.4, f2 and i think there's 2 or 3 other f1.8 manual focus or even the AFD lenses.
Thanks and sorry I missed this. Yes I bulk roll my own Vision3 50D, 200T, 500T and I bought a 400ft roll of fresh XX (great film!). See my Flickr or the blog or the video on Vision3 film. Sorry for the lack of Nikon! :) I have more to come I keep getting distracted by new M lenses releases. Stay tuned... the Nikkor 50 f2 AI will come at some point as one example. Great lens!
This is really a comparison of lenses . The film and lens are the key components . The Leica lens was better. I nikon with a lens hood would perform better
Thanks and yes. It was partly for me to see which system suited me AND then the results looked OK. I later got the 50/2 AI for Nikon too.
Love the Nikon design. Going to probably get the Z fc eventually once international travel is back to normal again.
Thanks Victor! I keep my CL for travel :)
Funny. The title of this made me watch. I have a NikonFA and a LeicaR7 - close enough. I’m a street shooter and hoped the R7 was going to be ‘it,’ but I just like the Nikon. The R7 body I bought last year was barely used. Hard to believe. I started shooting when there was no digital option; yes I’m that old. I also have a LeicaflexSL that I prefer over the R7. Back to the R7 and FA; the FA just fits in my hands better, it’s smaller, lighter. When I’ve taken a keeper photo with the FA, I really like it. I bought a Summicron-R 35mm 1:2
Oops hit post by accident. I bought the 35mm for the R7 - that lens is now happily attached to my digital Leica CL with a Metabones adapter. The R7 body is in a cabinet right now.
Thanks Dorie, the last video I posted on UA-cam was on the R7 actually, you might be able to relate! Great to hear you use a Leica CL too.
Yes agreed the Nikon bodies gives a much smaller setup and can take very nice photos (I love the Voigtlander SL lenses in Nikon F mount (super small and amazing optics). See that video. I tend to use the FM2 and FE2 the most for Nikon.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I watched that the other day. You liked the shutter speed dial with the 'Off' switch; that's one of the things I don't like. The Nikon film advance lever just switches off the light meter. I'm forever reminding myself to turn the meter off on the R7 so I don't run the batteries down.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I'll look into the Voigtlander lenses. Thanks for the tip and I'll watch that video.
How do you deal with the reverse focus throw of Nikkor lenses vs Leica (and Zeiss, Canon etc.)? I'm a Leica shooter and I really am afraid of messing with my muscle memory.
Yes it catches you out initially. Yes ideally stick to one system if you need fast reaction times.
Orange to orange Nikon FM2 vs Leica R6 more suitable
Thanks yes agreed. I have the FM2 if you’ve seen my mass Nikon F video. I just tend to like the meter in the FE2. Photos are the same of course.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I ran all of them in film days for the frigid cold Mt Hood to hot humid desert I only trust a hand full of cameras Leica SL, Sl2, R6, Nikon 2, FM2, Canon F1 old version, Canon EF. Proven for me over 30 years. I have seen students cameras failed left and right high end and low end, filter freeze up can't unscrew from lens etc... Meter died N90s, F5, Contax G1-G2
@@1911geek thank you. I have the SL and R6 (see those videos) FM and FM2. I have seen a R6 with sticking shutter but I’m sure manual bodies normally beat electronic. I’d take manual for hot/ cold trips. I was using a Kiev4a and Leica M4-P in Poland in minus -5 to -9 a few weeks ago (you’ll see the snow in the next video again)(following the recent 90mm video from Poland)
As a long time Nikon user I have to admit that I prefer the Leica images (but as others have pointed out the recessed front element gives the R lens an advantage). Then again sharpness isn't everything and a lens can sometimes be almost too sharp for shooting models?
I own a Mamiya c330 and when researching recently I read somewhere that the earlier c330 lenses are actually shaper than the later versions? Apparently the main market for the c330 at the time were wedding and portrait photographers who were complaining that the lenses were too sharp, and so when Mamiya brought out the newer versions they toned down the sharpness slightly. Not sure if it's true but it's an interesting theory.
Thanks WG, I normally like Leica but I loved the Nikon results in this case. I guess we like what we don't normally see! :) Very interesting about the M C330, thanks for sharing that and yes I can believe it! I don't have that camera but I looked at it many times. I have 2 TLR I need to use more and quiet a few other Mamiya - 645, RZ, 6, 7..
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Well Matt, you have a Mamiya 6 and I'm guessing it's the interchangeable lens version which costs an arm and a leg? But...have you ever used the Mamiya 6 Automat? I just got one of these a few days ago and I'm after running a roll through to check for light leaks (there's none). It's similar to your Voigtlander Perkeo which you reviewed previously (which I also have). It's a bit taller and wider than the Perkeo but still fits into a coat pocket. The lens is a sharp Olympus Zukio 75mm f3.5.
However it also has some big advantages over the Perkeo.
When you wind on it also cocks the shutter
It has a built in rangefinder, and focusing is by a thumbwheel which moves the film plane.
It's actually a joy to use and much faster than the Perkeo. I can't be sure because the negs are still drying but the Zuiko lens looks to be on a par with the Voigtlander Color-Skopar of the Perkeo also.
I got mine from Japan and prices are roughly the same as for the Perkeo.
If you're curious you should take a look at a review by a UA-camr called Martin Henson who takes it for a spin on the Yorkshire Dales and runs through it's features.. It's well worth a look.
@@thewildgoose7467 thanks WG, yes my Mamiya 6 is the now expensive one. I know your camera too. I have a similar camera that was cheaper so I got that instead. Video to come in that. I need to use it more first but the lens is amazing. Thanks for mentioning the other video.
Nice one. I have to say, though, the way you load film is weird!
Thanks, yes I did it a bit cack-handled in the video as I was trying to film it. On the R6 you load to the right then pull to the left, the opposite of most cameras.
Nikon SLRs have better metering but Leica has the glass.
Thanks Peter! I solved that recently.. see my Leica lens on Nikon camera video! :)
So much work..... But ok, it´s what you get paid for, right? Just joking. In fact, you are not really comparing the Fe2 to the R6 but the Summicron to the Nikon pancake. Which is a little bit unfair to Nikon. The pancake was the cheapest 50mm in production and there are 50mm lenses that are far better than it. I have compared (not on so beautiful models, but a very attractive bookshelf :-( ) some of the other lenses to my (since sold, not because of the quality, but to get some money for other stuff) Summicron and found out, that the larger 1,8/50mm as well es the AF 1,8 50mm come very close to the summicrons image quality. And the older f2/50mm is even better. The only 50mm I never owned is the pancake. A pity, so I can´t test it against the others...
As you may know: I like your work a lot!!!! Its a pity, you no longer are part of the EU, I otherwise could have sent you some of my lenses for trying out yourself. Best regards, Stephan
Thanks Stephan, very kind! Mine is the v3 Japanese pancake not the basic one and I find it optically better. I’ve had 501.4D AF and didn’t rate it and 501.8G, sharp but sterile. Sold both. I might look for an old f2 :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom In Austria we have plenty of breathtaking women…. If you ever decide to see for yourself, give me a headsup, it would be a pleasure to help you out with some lenses;-)
Tidbit: durling the Viet Nam war, the US Army ditched Leicas for Nikons because they were more rugged and more reliable. They could also be field cleaned by removing top and covers and pouring cheap Russian vodka through them to wash out the dirt.
Thanks! Love your info, thanks for sharing. I use Nikon too and yes most people agree the Nikons are built to last longer (need less servicing*)
Honnestly, if you would put all the pictures of the Ladies together on a table asking me to make 2 piles : one for Leica and the other for Nikon, . . . it would be a very difficult task. I regret that you did not gave us a few B+W images to compare. Nevertheless you have done a Great job, a video to look more than once. Comparing prices on Ebay confirms 1 of your 5 points pro Nikon. I can assure you that I do not "hate" you for highlighting Nikon. The Winner takes it All ! Greetz, Roger.
Thanks Roger, it wasn’t practical to test with both colour & b&w film but for the next test I’ll probably go for B&W, thanks!
Hi Matt need your advise. Should I buy the 7artisans 35mm f 5,6 or the lens mate 18mm f8?
You have tested them, witch to go for.
Keep posting and I keep following
Per
I would go for the 18mm for sure. It is better on a RF camera to focus (as everything is in focus)(focus scale on the 35mm is not so good so really need EVF to use it). 18mm is smaller and lighter + cheaper too! :) More videos soon! :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks so mutch I will order one total. Now my TL2 will fit in my pocket.
Have a nice summer
Per Ingemarson
@@peringemarson3898 thanks Per, you too!
Leica wins for this round, but it's not fair. Better to compare 55mm micro with Leica 50mm Cron. By the way, since you got the R6, you don't use the Leicaflex SL anymore?
Thanks Michael! The Micro will blow the pants off the Cron lol. (see the video I did testing sharp 50s for Nikon) I use R6 much more with models as I can see quickly and easily. For non models the SL is much nicer to operate (film advance).
Any Leica R6 third party lenses and other things?
No problem.
How about the lenses made by Angenieux, Novoflex, Schneider and
Tamronfitting to a leica R6?
The 200 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm and 600 mm Novoflex and Tamron lenses
have Leica R fast focusing systems.
Macro bellows, tele 2x converterand with Leica R mount,.
Adapters for microscope,film duplicator, ringflash etc.
As long as I can act as a tinker, I can fix it.
If you wish I can bolt a Leica R6 to a 4 x 5 view camera.
Thanks Jaco!
I vehemently disagree! The FE2 images have more contrast and clarity than the Leica R6 renditions in these examples. The R6 images look slightly flat. Get them checked by your optometrist if you don't believe me. Your eyes that is, not the photos. Besides, her breasts look bigger in the FE2 pictures. Not my opinion Matt, it's a fact ;-) The FE2 brings out the beauty of everything it sees ;-)
Great comparison video and sincerely appreciated.
Thanks!
Leica has less contrast, more even tones. The Nikkor pancake has more contrast- darker shadows.
Yes the Nikkor lenses have more contrast for sure - the 50mm f2 AI as another example.
Have you looked into converting Leica R lens to Nikon mount? :)
Hi Wei, as far as I know this isn't possible. Just get a Leica R body, it's much easier!
R body will work with the lens but to be honest, Nikon bodies are smoother. To adapter the Leica R to Nikon F, you will need to remove the Leica mount and cams and install a Nikon mount. This adoption process is reversible.
The only issue is I think the modified Leica R lens does not have auto diaphragm. It’s not a problem for people who likes to shoot with lens wide open. It may be an issue if someone wants to focus with lens stopping down.
Both win; just in different races.
Thanks Nelson!
I think in terms of reflex Nikon is superior to Leica in almost all areas except the lenses - even if comparing the 50mm f2 sumicron to 50mm f1.8 pancakes os not fair … you should have taken at least the 50mm f1.4 … with a lens hood… you know these little metal or plastic part which prevents the flare ;) - and the … noise of the shutter :). Then for the colors … with Lightroom in 2022, it doesn’t means a lot (it was not the same at negative times ). The fe2 with the high cost fm3a (who should have been name fe3) are probably the best Nikon ever made
But the charm of using an r5 or an r7 with a Leica prime is something difficult to explain and when you tasted it , it s difficult to go back… I got 5 Nikon cameras , 3 Leicas but I now only use my r5 or r7 for b&w negatives… and my fe2 is waiting ah home :)
Yes sorry I now have the Nikkor 50 f2 AIS which is much sharper at f2 vs the Leica. (See my 50s shoot out videos). Agree re. option to fix colours after.
Have you seen my R5 vs R7 video :) you might be able to relate. Agree, Nikon can take nice photos, I have 9 I think but unless weight is a factor I would pick up R bodies instead. (Unless I need the FL from Nikkor lenses).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes I saw it… and I also got R5 and R7 (they are FAR cheaper than when they were new…) and it s a real pleasure to take photo with them. So I do think nikon reflex of that time are superior but I have more pleasure to take b&w photos with my two Leica R… this just means the link you have with a camera is not only linked to high perfs but also and mainly to pleasure… and if you have pleasure taking photos , you take more picture with them( we love pleasure don t we ?)…
@@philmtx3fr I might be doing a future video on this point, yes I totally agree. It’s what we enjoy that’s important.
FE2 +ZF lens is the perfect match。Color was never Nikon's strong point
Thanks Morris! I'm a big fan of Nikon + Voigtlander too
That 50/1.8. I HAVE IT, IS ONE OF THE POOREST, Nikkor 50/1/4 D that I also have I find the best, esp for bokeh.
Thanks, there are different copies of these lenses, E and non E-series, some are better than others. The Nikkor 50mm f1.4 AIS and 50mm f2 AIS are both very good.
Also the Leica R6.2 goes to 1/2000 as does the R5 and R7.
Thanks Steve! Yes I need to do more videos.. I later bought a cheap R5 to try and a pricey R6.2 (I think it will be a good investment too)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It's important to note that one of the reasons the R6 and R6.2 are so pricey is that they are fully manual and mechanical, vs the PASM/electronic R4/5/7 and R8/9. I love shooting with my R9 but the R6.2 is still my favorite.
Image quality has nothing to do with the camera. Its the lense...
Agreed if both cameras let you focus accurately. This was to see which overall system worked the best for me.
I agree, nikon is more useful. I have the FE and I am very happy. I use the Nikkor 50 f1.4 and is excellent.
Thanks Pedro! Nice setup
Perhaps at the expense of your sleep, would love a Leica R vs. Leica M shootout!
Thanks Alexander.. my mind is already thinking 1 better so that in the pipeline when I next have a few good models/ weather / location + time! :)
I've compared 50mm nikon kenses to summicron R both on same sensor. Cron is wwaaayyyy superior, sorry nikon
Interesting! Thanks for sharing. From my digital results Nikon AI 50 f2 can hold it's own well but the Leica lenses have their own look.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom try 45 aip or 35 afd 😉
Love the leica.
The microcontrast is better
Thanks Thom!
I wouldn’t say which is better. They’re just different.
Yes, I guess that’s why I keep both!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I have a R6.2 which I love how it handles and the shutter sound is wonderful. I also have a Nikon F3, FE2 and FM2. The Nikons don't handle the same as the R6.2
@@calvinchann1996 I have the R6.2 too :) I need to make a video at some point!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom given that, as far as I’m aware, and I could be wrong, the R6.2 is only a small update from the R6, not sure of the value of this video. I bought the 6.2 because it is newer and any electronics in it are likely to last a little bit longer.
@@calvinchann1996 yes it would be a short video just to point out that they are almost the same (and an excuse to share some photos I guess).
M6 v R6 please 👍
Thanks Coi, OK it’s on my list!
The strongest 2 things of Leica R4,5,6 is the meter damn accurate, and the prism is brightest of all 135mm cameras and the focusing screen is so precise that you will never miss focusing.
Thanks HK!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Most people will chase after good sharp lens. But most important on top of a good sharp lens is you can focus the
image damn sharp. In that respect, the Leica R4,5,6 with their super bright prism and precise never miss focusing screen is advantageous tool for you, especially to those with not so good eyes or older shooters.
@@hkleung2557 thanks! Yes agreed I find my R5/R6 easy to focus, especially with 24-50mm range.
I much preferred the richer colors and character of the Nikon!
Thanks yes even as a Leica shooter I liked the Nikon shots a lot/ more!
I want to do a digital shoot out with various 50s next. I’ve done a few videos like this but want to compare the new to me R glass vs what I use.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom That would be great! I mainly shoot 50s. For my EL2, F2, FM, and FE2 I have the Nikon 1.2AIS, 1.4 Non-AI, and 2.0 AI. The 1.2 AIS gets the most use.
@@TwangThang57 I have the 1.2! Amazing lens. Just bought f2 AI, see my Nikon 50s video and FE2vsFM + others vid, I’ve done about 8 or 9 Nikon vids so far, ooo and the Voigtlander lenses for Nikon video! Those lenses are great!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom The 2.0 is great. For years it was my only 50. Tho’ for sharpness at 2.0 or 2.8, the 1.2 has no equal! And yes, I have watched your other videos…….
Can I buy you a lens cap? ;-)
Ha thanks, I have them but I take them off at the start of a photoshoot (I use cheap pinch cap ones from eBay for most lenses)
My best 50mm for nikon is the 50 summicron R
I changed the mount 😂
Leitax 😊
Thanks, me too!! (I see you saw that video)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom i changed mount before i saw your vid
Leica users see the difference 😉
Very welcome.
Thanks!
I would not expect anyone buying 50 Summilux 1.4 R lenses for tests against a Nikon 50mm 1.4... just for the fun of it. Curious about using outdated film....looking for an 'old-time' effect?
Thanks Stuart, no I just have a fridge full so trying to use it before to old ..and while I have colour chemistry to use with it.
The Nikon 50mm lens your using there is not great. A better comparison would have been the AI or AI-s lenses (even though I understand the lens you have there is compact which is good for travel). I’ve done a comparison test between Nikon AI-s and Leica R lenses, and there is not a lot in it at all - colour and contrast were very, very similar, bokeh slightly better on the R lenses but not as much difference as you would think. When it comes to colour, there was almost no perceivable difference between the Nikon and Leica lenses so I do wonder perhaps if the home developing setup in anyway contributed to the colour balance difference you saw. I presume though that these were multiple rolls of film all with the same colour balance difference? I have kept both systems but I would choose the Nikon for a project because I have more lenses for it and I trust the bodies just that much more, the R6 is a nice body too. Definitely cheaper to set up a Nikon system fairly cheaply compared to the Leica.
Thanks for commenting, yes I since bought the 50mm f2 AI lens and I really like it. This lens is more warmer in colour than my v3 pancake so this might just be a lens variation. Agreed Nikon offer excellent value. (Currently shooting with a R6 and FM2). :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom that’s great. For the moment, I’ve settled on using the F100 with the FM2n. I’d happily use the FM2n all day but the autofocus and quick exposure potential with the F100 is sometimes helpful. The autofocus lenses however are not great to use on the FM2n so I usually take a AI-s 28, 35, 50, 105. And a couple of autofocus lenses for the F100.
I’ve got an SL2 as well and I see you have the SL, they’re both great cameras.
The one thing I like about the FE2 over the FM2n is the internal viewfinder light meter, I really like that metering needle, but having an all manual camera is worth that small difference in the end especially for travel.
@@carlomac great to hear you have the SL2 also. I had the F100 (see that video) but sold it as I mostly use MF lenses. I agree I like the FE2 meter the best! 👌🏻
Nikon? Never heard of it.
Haha i'm the same with Canon (I know nothing!)
I have a Leica R5 and have used a Tamron Adaptall Lens which seemed very reasonable vfm as
well trying out a 75-200 f4.5 Leica & the Tamron 35-135 f3.5 + 80-210 SP Lenses which my photographic buddy Rich had referred to as being very good pre AF era zoom lenses.
I used to have a Nikon EM before getting a Canon A1 back in 1985.
Oh, Matt nothing wrong with the comparative materials in the vlog. Great stuff!
Nice yes sorry I forgot about the Tamron option for R mount, thanks for reminder. I know of them but never looked at these
Thanks Philip, I love the FG-20 actually, like the EM :)
..well, i think the lens makes the pics, not the camera.....
Yes for sure. I need camera I can see to focus accurately + mount to adapt lenses I enjoy.
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I shoot a Leica R6 and a Nikon FM2, two splendid cameras that give me a high quality experience.
@@charleswilson9559 thanks Charles, great to hear and I agree. I used the FM2 on my last trip.
Fell asleep. Let me know how it ends...
Ha thanks Leo, ah you missed the best bit! Nikon won and lived happily ever after.