I bought a Q2 3 years ago and it's by far my most used camera. Its ergonomics, menu design, and overall shooting experience make me want to take photos with it. The picture quality is very good too. Beautiful colour rendition and punchy contrast.
@@chelseanorthrup8787the one you don’t even have to reach for. I used to have a lumix cm1 phone which would give me photos with that Leica look provided there was enough light… I would even say it makes better photos than my Leica tl2 and Nikon z5 unless it was a low light situation
I have owned a MFT Panasonic Lumix LX100 for almost 10 years. It features a F1.7-2.8 24-75mm equivalent fixed Leica lens, it appears identical to the Leica D-Lux 7. It's still my favorite street camera which fits nicely into my jacket pocket. Still does what I want it to do.
Recently I was a cohort in the Streets of London workshop conducted by 3bme during which Claudia traded out her usual setup (Nikon with a zoom) with a Leica QP (provided by KEH). I was so intrigued with watching the portability and impressed with the quality output of her Leica QP, I am ready to do the Leica jump. I just sold a very complete array of Canon M6 Mk2 gear to KEH and hope to be able to buy a Q2 from them... but, of course, first I have to contact my portfolio manager ... Thanx for this review/comparison. Timely and on point for me. Be well.
You and Tony have got to stop with the misinformation on crop sensor aperture. An f/2 lens is an f/2 lens. You're referring to the change in DoF. But light gathering is the same.
It’s the sensor’s light gathering that is taken into account, which is less, because it is smaller. Hence, you need a lower f-stop for the same amount of light. This translates into more noise on the smaller sensor, all else being equal. It’s easy to see with phones in low light, where the detail really falls apart due to noise reduction, even though iPhone 14 pro has f/1.5 aperture lens. It does not gather the same light as a FF camera with e.g. 24mm f/1.4. About 1/32 of the light actually.
@@FrankyFeedler The aperture is a physical representation of the lens itself. The lens gathers the light based on the size of the aperture "hole". The sensor may be smaller but all pixel sites are being exposed proportionally. The biggest sensor typically has bigger pixel sites hence cleaner performance.
@@ScreenFiends The pixels are exposed proportionally to the light gathering capabilities of each photosite. Smaller sites compensate with higher gain, thus higher noise, and since DoF also scales, the f-stop-equivalence is a solid rule to go by. All other qualities equal, a crop sensor will need more light for the same performance, proportional to sensor size. For a crop sensor, ISO 100 is a higher gain than ISO 100 on FF. It’s just that it’s not exactly e.g. 1.5x, could be more could be less because contrary to DoF, sensor quality makes a difference. But an f/1.5 iPhone lens+sensor does not gather the same light as a 24/1.4 GM on FF. Just a 1/32 of that amount approx. Which coincides with the equivalence rule, and the enormous noise difference.
If you want to reproduce results across formats (the whole point of converting the numbers), then yes, you have to apply the crop factor to focal length, f-number, and ISO (squared). An f2 lens is an f2 lens, just like a 35mm lens is a 35mm lens, just like ISO 2000 is ISO 2000. These numbers won't tell you what result to expect UNLESS you apply crop factor.
I'm a huge fan of black and white. Converting digital from color to black and white worked well enough until I picked up a Q2 Monochrom. My best description of the images is that they are extremely rich and have an almost buttery smoothness. It's such a fun camera to work with.
I'm sure there are other "intangibles" to the Leica, but there is not a $3500 difference in image quality. I expected a bigger difference. But I'm happy for you, enjoy!
I have been using the Q2 for a year now. It has invigorated my love for photography with its high quality and minimalism. Pure joy to use. And being more limited inspires creativity. Still using mostly Canon for pro work, but for my own personal use, this is it.
A few technical corrections: 1) you don’t have to apply the cropping factor to the f-stop if you are considering transmittance. It is only for the depth of field, if the framing is identical. 2) the Fujifilm X100V also does digital zoom. 3) the raw Leica Q2 field of view is actually wider than the nominal 28mm. 4) manual focusing is available on the X100V
1) actually contradicts their own testing. Not because of the lens (transmittance) but because of the smaller sensor. Although due to the large pixel density difference, I kind of doubt the difference would be huge.
"1) you don’t have to apply the cropping factor to the f-stop if you are considering transmittance." Yes, you do. N= f/D N = f-number, f = focal length, D = diameter of the entrance pupil. If you apply the crop factor to the focal length, mathematically, you must do the same with the f-number. That's just math. Also, tests will show the same thing. Crop factor must be applied to focal length, f-number, and ISO (squared), if you want to reproduce results across formats.
This is a very odd video. The X100V is a great camera for putting in your pocket. It's great for social situations and days out. I bought mine for £600 used before the prices went nuts. The Leica is a £4000 camera. It's much bigger and much much more "pro". I wouldn't take one out for cocktails. It's like saying I am not happy with my 35mm Point and Shoot film having poor picture quality so I am getting hammered with my Hasselblad 500CM . Panasonic GX9 with the 20mm F1.7 about £600 with 4 stops of stabilisation. You could drop, loose or leave in the Taxi a fair few of these with a lot less pain than a Leica Q2.
yeah. All videos of youtubers talking about Leica...is like that. Its like a pay add. It make no-sense how can they compare this overpriced cameras. Its so niche
A more budget option is the GX 9 together with the Leica 15 mm lens. Similar size, aperture ring but with the possibility to switch lenses! Great colours and ibis.
@@kinghuthegreat also, Leica Q series is aimed at rich people who can comfortably afford it. But it is well suited as a every day camera, being the only small form factor full frame with German build quality and is a luxury product that won’t be earning money for most people. From as far as I can tell, there’s many regular income people saving up for this, therefore it’s a big purchase, and the value the thing holds is an important part. What’s a few more days or weeks when the current model is over 4 years old, at more than original RRP, on a 5k camera? People who want the Q2 get a price cut, people who want the Q3 get a feature refresh. Buying a Q2 right now at full price seems crazy to me, unless you’re earning money creating content with it or about it, for example.
Nice video. I’ve just bought a Q2, as with the Q3 launch date set for the 26/5 the prices are already coming down for a used Q2 if you shop around. I just saved an additional 12% compared to a week ago buying from a store and I don’t need the upgrades on the Q3. I’m impressed with the image quality on this camera, but my Fujifilm XH1 still holds up well (noting the lower resolution).
Wow I love the shape of the Leica Q2 camera and the ability to carry just one lens and camera instead of all that gear usually carried, makes me want one. Cost, yes expensive; but so is the Sony A1, Canon R5 or R3, and Nikon Z9. So I understand what a fun camera is and that reminds me of what I started with in the early 60's.
I sold all my Sony FE gear 2 ½ year ago and went for the Leica Q2, it’s fun, great to carry around and quality is outstanding. The app works great on iPhone and iPad with a link to LR mobile. Love it😊
Love my M11 Monochrom, plan on picking up the Q3 when it comes out next week. I think you made the right choice. I recently picked up the Fujifilm XH2S… it’s a good camera, but not really one I’m loving. There is just something special about Leica; I really enjoy shooting with it.
I went from the x100v to the q2. I think overall I’m happy with the switch, but I do really miss the film simulations. The q2 is heavier but I still take it everywhere with me. But sometimes I do feel uncomfortable bringing a really expensive camera with me to certain places, whereas with the fuji I wouldn’t think twice. Definitely more time consuming to edit Leica files vs just going with fuji jpegs.
I hope that Fuji will consider to make a medium format camera with fixed lens. It will attract a lot of users to step into the world of medium format. Fuji should do something different on their own way now.
I'm a longtime sony shooter, starting back in the a77/a99 days. The A1 is my primary camera. I bought the Fuji x100T for my daughter and shot it a lot. I do not get the hype. Marginal handling, marginal IQ. I splurged ridiculously and bought the Q2 for all the reasons you'd think. Based on what I'm used to, the handling and controls were not at all intuitive. Image quality was fine, but not better than sony, and with lots of limitations. I ended up returning the Q2 and buying a 5 year old Sony RX1R2. So so so much better... Smaller, better handling (adding a couple accessories), half the price. Even this older model felt more advanced than the Q2. Side note - if your last name is not Northrup, KEH are a bunch of scammers. Multiple times, they gave me a price to buy my gear, then sent me a lower check once they received the items. Every time, I called them and asked them to re-review the item. Each time they gave me the original amount. Obviously, they're counting on the fact that most people will just accept what they get and won't follow up.
Good to know about KEH, not surprised. I went to film school in New York onceupon a time. Always a deal back East, for them not for u if u are from the West like me.
Concerning the Fuji app -- If you are on iPhone, click the connect button when it pops up, then go to wifi settings and click the (i) next to the SSID, then turn off private wifi address. You can thank amoral marketeers tracking you for this new security feature. Even if you set it permanently, you still need to do it nearly every time. Don't blame Fuji or Apple. You don't blame who made your car or house for having locks. In a world of malicious agents, we can't have nice things! That said, could Fuji fix this? If the other camera manufacturers have already, then what gives?!
I moved from the X100V to a Leica M a couple of years ago and just love it. Thinking about adding a Leica Q to my bag now. Thank you for the great video..
But $5k.... Nice to be able to have the option. The Fuji would win out for me on that basis alone, although I'd envy the low-light capability of the larger sensor and much larger aperture....
I think the main thing that would worry me about carrying around a Leica is it is so visibly expensive, and you might be asking for someone to grab it off you. So I am not sure I would want to take it "everywhere" with me, especially travelling. Also, in size terms, the Q2 might actually be more comparable to an X-T5 with one of the F2 primes?
This is why I switched over to the Ricoh GRIII from Fujifilm. With the added benefit of being smaller. I'm happy to be free of Film Simulations too though. I only like Pro Neg H and Velvia, with occasionally Astia - everything else makes skin look weird and unnatural, or skies.
I agree, plus the GRIII is a "truly" portable everyday camera with excellent picture quality and super sharp images. If you can't take great photos with this camera, it may say more about the photographer than the camera. Save $5000 dollars and have a ball with a camera so easy to carry you'll actually bring it with you (the definition of, Everyday camera) as compared to the Q3.
Finally a video which compares the two cameras side by side with the same photo taken. i dont know why others compare completely different photos when doing a x100v vs q2 comparison. thank you!
I was not exactly a Leica lover before I actually handled and used one. It's the ease of use, the heft of quality and most of all the consistent excellent image quality I could get out of a Leica. I forget the camera when I take photos because there is nothing that distracts me from doing 'photography'. The price I paid caused temporary oxygen deficiency in my brain but that passed after a while. Leica is an acquired taste, but boy (girl), You'll have serious fun if that taste hits Your nerve.
The other option is the SonyRX1rII also a full frame fixed lens camera, smaller than the Leica, sadly no longer made but can be found in the used market
5:10 The crop factor does not affect the light gathering of the f2 lens. The Leica lens does not let in three times more light. It's a half-stop difference.
You need to study more. The brightness of the beam of light hitting the sensor may be the same but on a ff camera that beam of light and sensor is proportionally bigger for the same composition, therefore there is absolutely more light and a more importantly a better signal to noise ratio
@@RicanStudio I understand that a full-frame camera will have better noise performance even at base ISO, but saying it's not a true f2 lens is incorrect. If you take the same photo with the same settings on both cameras, the exposure will be the same.
@@smaakjeks Yes, you're correct. The Fuji lens will have the equivalent full-frame focal length of 52.5mm and the equivalent DOF of f3. You're also correct that applying the crop factor to the ISO squared will give you an estimate of what noise to expect at each ISO level. However, the point I'm trying to make is that these things are a result of the sensor size and not of the lens. For example, if you put a full-frame f2 lens on an APS-C body, you will not gather more light, and the exposure will be the same as with the APS-C f2 lens. The better low-light performance is a result of the bigger sensor and not of the lens. There is no TRUE f2. Perhaps it was just a poor choice of wording?
@@Daniel_James323 Yeah, the surface area of the sensor does make the difference. And I agree, there is no TRUE f2, just like there is no TRUE 35mm. I think we are in agreement :)
I wonder if there will ever come a day that everyone will understand that things like Leica cameras are a niche product not marketed to everyone but to those who can afford it and enjoy it for what it is. No one is trying to tell them that they need to own one. The same could be said for Rolls Royce or any other high end car brand. Any car can get you where you need to go, so there is really no need for a Rolls, but they exist for those who can and want to have one.
You made a good choice. One of my student’s dad let me borrow his Q2 for about a week and I really enjoyed working with it. Make sure you have that thumb grip though. It was more useful than I thought. 😅
How about the Fuji XE4? I believe it has one of Fuji's best sensors and comes in a really small and discreet package, stylish, uses interchangeable lenses and is fun to use too. As for the Q2, to me it's not that much different than other hi res full frame cameras. If I wanted to go Q2, I'd go for the monochrom which is something much more unique
I have a Fuji X-E4 and it Is my favourite camera. I also have an X-T5 and a Sony A7R IV. The Sony I got used for a v good price. It is for Wild Life etc. The X-T5 is brilliant as a general purpose camera. Plus that set up is so light when up in hills or mountains. The 4 though is simple and does everything well. Plus it is so light and portable. I'm not in the Leica league financially, used or otherwise.
Not a surprise that the Leica out-performs the Fuji in all respects. While these two cameras have some similarities, they are clearly in a different class. I’m not sure if ease in uploading files to IG justifies the additional cost. Chelsea is not your typical consumer since she makes a living from photography and appears to have above average means. I don’t see a lot of valuable information here for the average consumer.
It must contribute to getting more views, but I really wish this "I'm switching to ...!" class of videos would just stop. Nothing against you Chelsea, as a UA-camr you have to do whatever the metrics tell you to do (sincerely). A lot of people (myself included) spend years, even decades, wasting time and money searching for perfection and switching gear because of content like this (yes, there's an underlying issue that causes the video to have that effect, but hey). Get to know the gear you have intimately, take photos, think critically on them (if you want), learn, improve your skills. If you already have a recent X100 (or whatever camera you use and know), switching to a similar Leica is most likely NOT to help your photography. At all.
I agree, but their channel is focussed among other things on gear, and making the same video over and over again how the 5D Mk1 is still a great camera won't bring in any views. If she enjoys the Leica more than the current Fuji, great! I'm sure she will switch to another camera in a couple of years and that's also fine.
Sold all my Sony FE gear and I have my Q2 for 3 years now, but also kept the Sony aps-c A6500 with E1655f2.8G, E11f18, E70350G and E20f28. Thinking about selling the Q2 and replace the A6500 by A6600 and A6700. But will I miss the Leica look in my pictures? I hardly make high quality prints
I'm also a big fan of these fixed lens cameras especially for travel. I also mulled going for the Fuji or stretching for the Leica Q2, but ended up getting the sort of middle ground: a Sony RX1R II. It's basically a miniature A7R II and its been fantastic. May you should try out the Sony RX1R II too!
The battery life is definitely the weak point, but nothing a few spares won't solve. They're small and easily pocketable. I do agree that the age of the camera makes the new price a bit tough to stomach, that's why I bought it used :)
Yea true. Though this Leica is a bargain considering the lens it is equipped with. I have an M11P with the 28 Summilux… was a considerable $$$ hit above the Q. And…it’s a Leica. 💯% worth the entry price if you can fit it in your budget.
Leica Q2's in excellent shape are now going for around $4k to $4400 used. Not that is suddenly a bargain, but if they are within 2 years of original purchase, the warranty is transferable whereas a lot of camera companies only cover the original owner. With the Q3 coming out later this month there a lot of original Q's and Q2's on sale. I love my used Q2 - image quality is amazing, plus portability, convenience and it's weather sealed.
"Leica Rumors" has it that the Q3 is about to show up this month. If true, I think it's worth it to wait and see and whether to get the Q3 or snatch up the Q2 for potential savings.
I have a Q2 also it is hard to describe, but it just feels right. I would love to have a m11, but I have tremors and the Q2 keeps me in a happy place. And the photos come out beautiful.
Fuji’s dr400 mode gives you 3-5 stops of highlight retention at the cost of some shadow. The Leica, all Leica’s, have over 15 stops of DR vs Fuji’s 12, but it’s ALL in the shadows. Some things like clouds, face hi lights, white shirts, wedding dresses ,….. all come out clipped. Not only does fuji give you more hilight retention, but curves to have an almost logarithmic falloff. No need to underexpose, so your pictures on the back of a camera .ook normal, not dark On Leica’s, you have to INCORRECTLY expose your image: underexposed dark images populate the back of your screen requiring post work to look normal… Not fuji.
Hope you waited a little before you pulled the trigger on the Q2. Q3 have the Leica Looks which are similar to the Fujifilm Film Simulations, plus a lot more. I think you will like it. But the price..., that's another story. However, it is a joy to shoot and I have been very happy that I got it.
I was a firm believer of the X100 series, and thought that I had found my perfect everyday camera when I picked up the V. That is, until I picked up a Q2. Wow! I now own both the Q2 and Q2 Monochrom
I wouldn't choose the Q2 over the X100V, but I did trade in my X100V for the Q2 monochrom which is a fabulous camera. Come on Fuji, offer us a monochrome option. You won't regret it.
I had one for about a year, and loved it for photography. But it just did not work well for video. The autofocus was spotty at best, and the non-flip screen made it very difficult to vlog. Had to sell it to buy a camera more suitable for hybrid shooting.
Sorry, sad news to share, the Leica Q3, the latest & best just hit the shores of PhotoWorld. Oh well, I guess you'll just have to make-do with the Q2 model. Life can really be tough sometims, right? Just think positive & get out there and keep clicking with what you have. Who knows, there still might be another Museum Photo to be signed with the Q2! 😎😎
Thanks, Chelsea. I like the Q2 but only for about $2500. On the other hand, I like the A7CR for $6000. I own the A7R5 and love the 61mp. Then the clair image zoom where you can crop in 50%. Not to mention the unbelievably quick focus. Hell , I don't know which one to choose.
The Fujifilm app has had issues for years. A new app is being released on May 25th, 2023 and it seems promising. If it provides a stable camera connection, many Fujifilm users, including myself, will be very happy
I have a fixed lens camera too!! It is the amazing Nikon P1000. When I leave the house I’m constantly going for the P1000 because any thing is in reach, plus, macro photography can be done from as little as 1 centimetre away. The only thing that would make me change over is if Nikon brings out the 24MP P1000 upgrade, maybe called the P1024. With optical zoom of 24-3000mm FL, nothing, literally nothing, is like, or even comes close, to this amazing Nikon product. It’s a big, black, beautiful, powerful, man’s camera. None of this tinky toy stuff. Cheers
Have fun! I loved my q2, until I moved on 😅 great camera. Just a FYI, build muscle memory of any time using the macro mode to change out of it as soon as you get the shot. Or else you could be missing a decisive moment later :p
Hi Guys, I love your videos. I went to KEH to buy a Leica camera with your link that says 5% discount and KEH is NOT honoring the discount. Don't know why but when I go to pay I see no 5% savings.
you have to try a Q2 monochrom - everything and I mean everything looks different- when I got mine I felt like a kid with my first camera loaded with back and white film-you will want to take a picture of everything just to see what it looks like
You are basically comparing apples with oranges. In reality difference in quality between the cameras is irrelevant unless you are printing massive prints. I personally think the Panasonic LX100 is a far more compelling camera than either of these cameras because it is a similarly sized compact camera with an awesome large aperture zoom lens at a far better price than either camera plus awesome video capability. Its the most practical compact camera by far. You have said you download the imagers to your phone and post them onto social media. This being the case probably 95%+ of the Leica quality is being wasted. May as well buy the Panasonic and enjoy the added benefit of the zoom with the smaller sensor.
@@warn0245 That's a great point and the Leica version may use the same Leica software with a smartphone which is one of the big benefits Chelsea found with the Q2 compared to the Fuji.
That Q2 looks great. I have a (now ancient) Leica D-Lux 109 for a more hands on manual feel with the viewfinder and i love the monochrome modes. Also picked up the Sony zv-1 for video and travelling cause its so small, but its not as tactile to dial in.
Nice review! Thanks.. I'm also switching from holga to leica immediately soon as i watch this video, and luckly today I've got my first leica Q2 from thrift store for $5.00 dollars
Chelsea said she was ready for the hate, but wow 😂 I’ll say the difference in image quality IS significant when you consider the Leica is being cropped in from 28mm and still beating the Fuji on objects that are the same distance away. I just finally ordered an X100V now that the prices are coming down, but the Leica is an awesome camera. Show me where else you can get a camera that small with such a wide aperture and sharp lens.
Y'all change camera systems like I change underwear. Thank God I can afford to change underwear.
Less pictures but more and more content about devices.
they’re clearly just trying to sell the most expensive gear through their affiliates so they can cash in. this review felt so insincere 😢
@@iantulud That makes no sense.
If I had a 1.58M subs YT channel in the camera niche I would constantly be changing my camera too. Wouldn't you?
@@gigihanmandarin It's their job to review gear. I mean... Yeah, they're going to buy gear.
I bought a Q2 3 years ago and it's by far my most used camera. Its ergonomics, menu design, and overall shooting experience make me want to take photos with it. The picture quality is very good too. Beautiful colour rendition and punchy contrast.
Do you use an app on your phone to upload pictures?
Yes! What’s better than the camera you always want to reach for?
@@chelseanorthrup8787the one you don’t even have to reach for. I used to have a lumix cm1 phone which would give me photos with that Leica look provided there was enough light… I would even say it makes better photos than my Leica tl2 and Nikon z5 unless it was a low light situation
I have owned a MFT Panasonic Lumix LX100 for almost 10 years. It features a F1.7-2.8 24-75mm equivalent fixed Leica lens, it appears identical to the Leica D-Lux 7. It's still my favorite street camera which fits nicely into my jacket pocket. Still does what I want it to do.
Yeah, it's so nice that Leica is so affordable and easy to switch and Fuji X100V are virtually everywhere and so easy to find ^^
Nice one...
Pick an RX1R, it's actually pretty easy to find. It's also usually under 1k usd now.
A used Leica Q (not Q2) is pretty much the same price as x100v now.
@@RandomBb56 Is it now? I almost picked up a Q...if i find one at a good price i might jump in. I'll keep a look out. Thanks
@@RandomBb56 I wanna try original X100 but the prices is a bit too much for that kind of old-ish camera ;c
It’s nice that you can afford $5795 for a Leica. I’m keeping my X100F.
Recently I was a cohort in the Streets of London workshop conducted by 3bme during which Claudia traded out her usual setup (Nikon with a zoom) with a Leica QP (provided by KEH). I was so intrigued with watching the portability and impressed with the quality output of her Leica QP, I am ready to do the Leica jump. I just sold a very complete array of Canon M6 Mk2 gear to KEH and hope to be able to buy a Q2 from them... but, of course, first I have to contact my portfolio manager ...
Thanx for this review/comparison. Timely and on point for me. Be well.
I have a feeling Chelsea will switch back when Fuji releases the 100W or 100X In six months.
possibly, though the Q3 drops in a week
They change camera brands with the same frequency a parent changes a baby's diaper, and for much the same reason.
@@mostlysondheim1930omeone poopied on their camera????
@@lancairdriver And it comes with a flip screen.
@@lancairdriver is this for real???
You and Tony have got to stop with the misinformation on crop sensor aperture. An f/2 lens is an f/2 lens. You're referring to the change in DoF. But light gathering is the same.
It’s the sensor’s light gathering that is taken into account, which is less, because it is smaller. Hence, you need a lower f-stop for the same amount of light. This translates into more noise on the smaller sensor, all else being equal. It’s easy to see with phones in low light, where the detail really falls apart due to noise reduction, even though iPhone 14 pro has f/1.5 aperture lens. It does not gather the same light as a FF camera with e.g. 24mm f/1.4. About 1/32 of the light actually.
@@FrankyFeedler The aperture is a physical representation of the lens itself. The lens gathers the light based on the size of the aperture "hole". The sensor may be smaller but all pixel sites are being exposed proportionally. The biggest sensor typically has bigger pixel sites hence cleaner performance.
@@ScreenFiends The pixels are exposed proportionally to the light gathering capabilities of each photosite. Smaller sites compensate with higher gain, thus higher noise, and since DoF also scales, the f-stop-equivalence is a solid rule to go by. All other qualities equal, a crop sensor will need more light for the same performance, proportional to sensor size. For a crop sensor, ISO 100 is a higher gain than ISO 100 on FF. It’s just that it’s not exactly e.g. 1.5x, could be more could be less because contrary to DoF, sensor quality makes a difference. But an f/1.5 iPhone lens+sensor does not gather the same light as a 24/1.4 GM on FF. Just a 1/32 of that amount approx. Which coincides with the equivalence rule, and the enormous noise difference.
If you want to reproduce results across formats (the whole point of converting the numbers), then yes, you have to apply the crop factor to focal length, f-number, and ISO (squared). An f2 lens is an f2 lens, just like a 35mm lens is a 35mm lens, just like ISO 2000 is ISO 2000. These numbers won't tell you what result to expect UNLESS you apply crop factor.
Apparently they need to keep talking about it, because many, like yourself, still don’t understand it.
I'm a huge fan of black and white. Converting digital from color to black and white worked well enough until I picked up a Q2 Monochrom. My best description of the images is that they are extremely rich and have an almost buttery smoothness. It's such a fun camera to work with.
I'm sure there are other "intangibles" to the Leica, but there is not a $3500 difference in image quality. I expected a bigger difference. But I'm happy for you, enjoy!
To be fair, you're always more likely to grab a new camera when you go out because you've got more to explore and try out.
I did the same switch from X-100V to Q2. Never looked back. I love the Q2 and the lens is a masterpiece.
I have been using the Q2 for a year now. It has invigorated my love for photography with its high quality and minimalism. Pure joy to use. And being more limited inspires creativity. Still using mostly Canon for pro work, but for my own personal use, this is it.
I love the Q2! I primarily shoot Sony but the Q2 is so enjoyable to use. The Q2 monochrome is perhaps slightly more enjoyable.
A few technical corrections:
1) you don’t have to apply the cropping factor to the f-stop if you are considering transmittance. It is only for the depth of field, if the framing is identical.
2) the Fujifilm X100V also does digital zoom.
3) the raw Leica Q2 field of view is actually wider than the nominal 28mm.
4) manual focusing is available on the X100V
1) actually contradicts their own testing. Not because of the lens (transmittance) but because of the smaller sensor. Although due to the large pixel density difference, I kind of doubt the difference would be huge.
F2 is F2. Tage. Photos same distance from subject. Crop the FF to have the same fov and they will similar
@@nightryder21 Yes, cropping a sensor is the same as cropping a sensor ;-)
"1) you don’t have to apply the cropping factor to the f-stop if you are considering transmittance."
Yes, you do. N= f/D
N = f-number, f = focal length, D = diameter of the entrance pupil. If you apply the crop factor to the focal length, mathematically, you must do the same with the f-number. That's just math. Also, tests will show the same thing. Crop factor must be applied to focal length, f-number, and ISO (squared), if you want to reproduce results across formats.
@@nightryder21 Not true. You can test it yourself.
This is a very odd video. The X100V is a great camera for putting in your pocket. It's great for social situations and days out. I bought mine for £600 used before the prices went nuts. The Leica is a £4000 camera. It's much bigger and much much more "pro". I wouldn't take one out for cocktails. It's like saying I am not happy with my 35mm Point and Shoot film having poor picture quality so I am getting hammered with my Hasselblad 500CM . Panasonic GX9 with the 20mm F1.7 about £600 with 4 stops of stabilisation. You could drop, loose or leave in the Taxi a fair few of these with a lot less pain than a Leica Q2.
You must have huge pockets! Personally, I'd go with the Ricoh GR3.
@@jsurfin1 well the GR3X maybe, but the X100v fits in my coat pocket fine. I have the XF-10 if I want something smaller.
yeah. All videos of youtubers talking about Leica...is like that. Its like a pay add. It make no-sense how can they compare this overpriced cameras. Its so niche
This video was brought to you by Leica
Leikeh 😊
Nice huh, that you can just sit behind your screen somewhere in the world and lob accusations without any consequence for yourself.
@@FrankyFeedler accusations??? what are you? the FBI?
@@kuroexmachina You do know the word spans further than "the FBI" right?
Very soon Leica is launching the Q3. Why would it want to push the Q2?
A more budget option is the GX 9 together with the Leica 15 mm lens. Similar size, aperture ring but with the possibility to switch lenses!
Great colours and ibis.
Equivalent to 30 mm fullframe, very versatile range.
I agree. I have the GX85 with the Leica 15mm lens -- very compact with outstanding images!
@@cameraz99 GX85 + Leica 15mm is basically Baby Leica Q. Love that combo for years.
I bought my q2 two weeks ago, I love it. I love my Z9 an Nikon D6 as well. But Q2is so much fun
Bad time to buy a full price Q2!? Q3 is about to come out!
No can afford it with this country sending billions to con man zelinsky and open borders.
Ohh yeah?
@@ScottShawPhoto yes BLM thug,.,. You going Steal one?
1.58m subs say it’s not the end of the world. And then there’s the wait list/time. Who’d want to be Q-less?😅
@@kinghuthegreat also, Leica Q series is aimed at rich people who can comfortably afford it. But it is well suited as a every day camera, being the only small form factor full frame with German build quality and is a luxury product that won’t be earning money for most people. From as far as I can tell, there’s many regular income people saving up for this, therefore it’s a big purchase, and the value the thing holds is an important part.
What’s a few more days or weeks when the current model is over 4 years old, at more than original RRP, on a 5k camera? People who want the Q2 get a price cut, people who want the Q3 get a feature refresh. Buying a Q2 right now at full price seems crazy to me, unless you’re earning money creating content with it or about it, for example.
Nice video. I’ve just bought a Q2, as with the Q3 launch date set for the 26/5 the prices are already coming down for a used Q2 if you shop around. I just saved an additional 12% compared to a week ago buying from a store and I don’t need the upgrades on the Q3. I’m impressed with the image quality on this camera, but my Fujifilm XH1 still holds up well (noting the lower resolution).
Wow I love the shape of the Leica Q2 camera and the ability to carry just one lens and camera instead of all that gear usually carried, makes me want one. Cost, yes expensive; but so is the Sony A1, Canon R5 or R3, and Nikon Z9. So I understand what a fun camera is and that reminds me of what I started with in the early 60's.
I sold all my Sony FE gear 2 ½ year ago and went for the Leica Q2, it’s fun, great to carry around and quality is outstanding. The app works great on iPhone and iPad with a link to LR mobile. Love it😊
Thanks for the review - we don't need *yet another* video on the camera's specs. The are everywhere on YT.
And the X100V is *unobtainable* anyway.
Love my M11 Monochrom, plan on picking up the Q3 when it comes out next week. I think you made the right choice. I recently picked up the Fujifilm XH2S… it’s a good camera, but not really one I’m loving. There is just something special about Leica; I really enjoy shooting with it.
I went from the x100v to the q2. I think overall I’m happy with the switch, but I do really miss the film simulations. The q2 is heavier but I still take it everywhere with me. But sometimes I do feel uncomfortable bringing a really expensive camera with me to certain places, whereas with the fuji I wouldn’t think twice. Definitely more time consuming to edit Leica files vs just going with fuji jpegs.
I share ALL of those feelings
@@chelseanorthrup8787 must have missed the tears when you compared the two prices lol
You sound repented.
I hope that Fuji will consider to make a medium format camera with fixed lens. It will attract a lot of users to step into the world of medium format. Fuji should do something different on their own way now.
@@simone565 What? X-T10/20 are not medium format.
Agree. I have the GFX 50R and 50mm f3.5 at the moment, treating it as a MF X100 - it's great, but would love to see an official fixed lens GFX too
@@simone565 Totally is a logical reply to his comment (face palm)
I sold my 100v for 30% more than I paid for it and got the Q2 second hand. Really pleased with the decision so with you on that 😊
Chelsea is taking photos with the Q2 and posting them to her phone. You need 47 Megapixels for that?
The Q2 looks to be about the same size as the Fuji XT-5, and you get to keep your fun Fuji profiles!
“I’m switching from Tony..” 😄
I'm a longtime sony shooter, starting back in the a77/a99 days. The A1 is my primary camera. I bought the Fuji x100T for my daughter and shot it a lot. I do not get the hype. Marginal handling, marginal IQ. I splurged ridiculously and bought the Q2 for all the reasons you'd think. Based on what I'm used to, the handling and controls were not at all intuitive. Image quality was fine, but not better than sony, and with lots of limitations. I ended up returning the Q2 and buying a 5 year old Sony RX1R2. So so so much better... Smaller, better handling (adding a couple accessories), half the price. Even this older model felt more advanced than the Q2.
Side note - if your last name is not Northrup, KEH are a bunch of scammers. Multiple times, they gave me a price to buy my gear, then sent me a lower check once they received the items. Every time, I called them and asked them to re-review the item. Each time they gave me the original amount. Obviously, they're counting on the fact that most people will just accept what they get and won't follow up.
Good to know about KEH, not surprised. I went to film school in New York onceupon a time. Always a deal back East, for them not for u if u are from the West like me.
Concerning the Fuji app -- If you are on iPhone, click the connect button when it pops up, then go to wifi settings and click the (i) next to the SSID, then turn off private wifi address.
You can thank amoral marketeers tracking you for this new security feature. Even if you set it permanently, you still need to do it nearly every time.
Don't blame Fuji or Apple. You don't blame who made your car or house for having locks. In a world of malicious agents, we can't have nice things!
That said, could Fuji fix this? If the other camera manufacturers have already, then what gives?!
there is a new app now that works ;)
I moved from the X100V to a Leica M a couple of years ago and just love it. Thinking about adding a Leica Q to my bag now. Thank you for the great video..
I made the same swap and never regretted it. Yes the Q2 is big bucks but you’ll get a big chunk of that back come trade in or selling day
But $5k.... Nice to be able to have the option. The Fuji would win out for me on that basis alone, although I'd envy the low-light capability of the larger sensor and much larger aperture....
I love the character of Leica lenses. I didn’t understand how charming a lens could make a photograph. I love their history as a company.
I think the main thing that would worry me about carrying around a Leica is it is so visibly expensive, and you might be asking for someone to grab it off you. So I am not sure I would want to take it "everywhere" with me, especially travelling. Also, in size terms, the Q2 might actually be more comparable to an X-T5 with one of the F2 primes?
For sure don't buy a Leica if you can't also afford insurance for it.
Get the Q-P instead. Stealth mode is awesome. And yea insurance is a must especially in NYC where I like to shoot.
I travel everywhere with it. Black out the logo and doesn’t stand out. Never had any issue and walk around with it around my shoulder everywhere
If you're worried about someone stealing your Leica while you are out with it, you need to move.
This is why I switched over to the Ricoh GRIII from Fujifilm. With the added benefit of being smaller. I'm happy to be free of Film Simulations too though. I only like Pro Neg H and Velvia, with occasionally Astia - everything else makes skin look weird and unnatural, or skies.
I agree, plus the GRIII is a "truly" portable everyday camera with excellent picture quality and super sharp images.
If you can't take great photos with this camera, it may say more about the photographer than the camera.
Save $5000 dollars and have a ball with a camera so easy to carry you'll actually bring it with you (the definition of, Everyday camera) as compared to the Q3.
Finally a video which compares the two cameras side by side with the same photo taken. i dont know why others compare completely different photos when doing a x100v vs q2 comparison. thank you!
You can get a X-Pro3 with the XF 18mm 1.4 lens for less than 1/2 of the price of the Leica and have an optical viewfinder and Fuji film simulations.
A Silver leica Q3 with all the bells and whistles will be an extreme object of desire for me !
I was not exactly a Leica lover before I actually handled and used one. It's the ease of use, the heft of quality and most of all the consistent excellent image quality I could get out of a Leica. I forget the camera when I take photos because there is nothing that distracts me from doing 'photography'. The price I paid caused temporary oxygen deficiency in my brain but that passed after a while. Leica is an acquired taste, but boy (girl), You'll have serious fun if that taste hits Your nerve.
The other option is the SonyRX1rII also a full frame fixed lens camera, smaller than the Leica, sadly no longer made but can be found in the used market
I love reviews.
I wish this review was actually a review.
Thanks for pandering though.
5:10 The crop factor does not affect the light gathering of the f2 lens. The Leica lens does not let in three times more light. It's a half-stop difference.
You need to study more. The brightness of the beam of light hitting the sensor may be the same but on a ff camera that beam of light and sensor is proportionally bigger for the same composition, therefore there is absolutely more light and a more importantly a better signal to noise ratio
@@RicanStudio I understand that a full-frame camera will have better noise performance even at base ISO, but saying it's not a true f2 lens is incorrect. If you take the same photo with the same settings on both cameras, the exposure will be the same.
You have to apply the crop-factor to the f-number, and the ISO (squared).
@@smaakjeks Yes, you're correct. The Fuji lens will have the equivalent full-frame focal length of 52.5mm and the equivalent DOF of f3. You're also correct that applying the crop factor to the ISO squared will give you an estimate of what noise to expect at each ISO level. However, the point I'm trying to make is that these things are a result of the sensor size and not of the lens. For example, if you put a full-frame f2 lens on an APS-C body, you will not gather more light, and the exposure will be the same as with the APS-C f2 lens. The better low-light performance is a result of the bigger sensor and not of the lens. There is no TRUE f2. Perhaps it was just a poor choice of wording?
@@Daniel_James323 Yeah, the surface area of the sensor does make the difference. And I agree, there is no TRUE f2, just like there is no TRUE 35mm. I think we are in agreement :)
I wonder if there will ever come a day that everyone will understand that things like Leica cameras are a niche product not marketed to everyone but to those who can afford it and enjoy it for what it is. No one is trying to tell them that they need to own one. The same could be said for Rolls Royce or any other high end car brand. Any car can get you where you need to go, so there is really no need for a Rolls, but they exist for those who can and want to have one.
You made a good choice. One of my student’s dad let me borrow his Q2 for about a week and I really enjoyed working with it. Make sure you have that thumb grip though. It was more useful than I thought. 😅
How about the Fuji XE4? I believe it has one of Fuji's best sensors and comes in a really small and discreet package, stylish, uses interchangeable lenses and is fun to use too. As for the Q2, to me it's not that much different than other hi res full frame cameras. If I wanted to go Q2, I'd go for the monochrom which is something much more unique
I have a Fuji X-E4 and it Is my favourite camera.
I also have an X-T5 and a Sony A7R IV. The Sony I got used for a v good price. It is for Wild Life etc. The X-T5 is brilliant as a general purpose camera. Plus that set up is so light when up in hills or mountains.
The 4 though is simple and does everything well. Plus it is so light and portable.
I'm not in the Leica league financially, used or otherwise.
Not a surprise that the Leica out-performs the Fuji in all respects. While these two cameras have some similarities, they are clearly in a different class. I’m not sure if ease in uploading files to IG justifies the additional cost. Chelsea is not your typical consumer since she makes a living from photography and appears to have above average means. I don’t see a lot of valuable information here for the average consumer.
It must contribute to getting more views, but I really wish this "I'm switching to ...!" class of videos would just stop. Nothing against you Chelsea, as a UA-camr you have to do whatever the metrics tell you to do (sincerely).
A lot of people (myself included) spend years, even decades, wasting time and money searching for perfection and switching gear because of content like this (yes, there's an underlying issue that causes the video to have that effect, but hey).
Get to know the gear you have intimately, take photos, think critically on them (if you want), learn, improve your skills.
If you already have a recent X100 (or whatever camera you use and know), switching to a similar Leica is most likely NOT to help your photography. At all.
I agree, but their channel is focussed among other things on gear, and making the same video over and over again how the 5D Mk1 is still a great camera won't bring in any views. If she enjoys the Leica more than the current Fuji, great! I'm sure she will switch to another camera in a couple of years and that's also fine.
Sold all my Sony FE gear and I have my Q2 for 3 years now, but also kept the Sony aps-c A6500 with E1655f2.8G, E11f18, E70350G and E20f28. Thinking about selling the Q2 and replace the A6500 by A6600 and A6700. But will I miss the Leica look in my pictures? I hardly make high quality prints
I'm also a big fan of these fixed lens cameras especially for travel. I also mulled going for the Fuji or stretching for the Leica Q2, but ended up getting the sort of middle ground: a Sony RX1R II. It's basically a miniature A7R II and its been fantastic. May you should try out the Sony RX1R II too!
how is battery life?
What battery life! :)
Just get a bunch of chicklets for batteries and your good.
Good luck finding one of those at a price that won’t kill your wallet 😄 And they’re 7(!) years old.
The battery life is definitely the weak point, but nothing a few spares won't solve. They're small and easily pocketable. I do agree that the age of the camera makes the new price a bit tough to stomach, that's why I bought it used :)
Comparing two camera’s with a 3.5 price factor? And then ‘not sure’ and wanting more film simulations in the Q2? Guess I’ll keep my X100V 😂
Leica is a bit too expensive for most of us unfortunately
And by a bit, you mean wayyyy too expensive.
Leica is like a Porsche, expensive body.
Completely. Leica is a status symbol.
Yea true. Though this Leica is a bargain considering the lens it is equipped with. I have an M11P with the 28 Summilux… was a considerable $$$ hit above the Q. And…it’s a Leica. 💯% worth the entry price if you can fit it in your budget.
Leica Q2's in excellent shape are now going for around $4k to $4400 used. Not that is suddenly a bargain, but if they are within 2 years of original purchase, the warranty is transferable whereas a lot of camera companies only cover the original owner. With the Q3 coming out later this month there a lot of original Q's and Q2's on sale. I love my used Q2 - image quality is amazing, plus portability, convenience and it's weather sealed.
I’m not a Leica fan. But I do like the x100v, so if you don’t need yours anymore, I’ll take it. :-)
"Leica Rumors" has it that the Q3 is about to show up this month. If true, I think it's worth it to wait and see and whether to get the Q3 or snatch up the Q2 for potential savings.
I have a Q2 also it is hard to describe, but it just feels right. I would love to have a m11, but I have tremors and the Q2 keeps me in a happy place. And the photos come out beautiful.
I’m hoping the release of the Q3 in a few months, will drop the prices of the Q2
Fuji’s dr400 mode gives you 3-5 stops of highlight retention at the cost of some shadow.
The Leica, all Leica’s, have over 15 stops of DR vs Fuji’s 12, but it’s ALL in the shadows. Some things like clouds, face hi lights, white shirts, wedding dresses ,….. all come out clipped.
Not only does fuji give you more hilight retention, but curves to have an almost logarithmic falloff. No need to underexpose, so your pictures on the back of a camera .ook normal, not dark
On Leica’s, you have to INCORRECTLY expose your image: underexposed dark images populate the back of your screen requiring post work to look normal…
Not fuji.
I just got mine about a month ago. Really enjoying it, and just such a nicer shooting experience than the Fuji X100V (which i have)
Hope you waited a little before you pulled the trigger on the Q2. Q3 have the Leica Looks which are similar to the Fujifilm Film Simulations, plus a lot more. I think you will like it. But the price..., that's another story. However, it is a joy to shoot and I have been very happy that I got it.
Fuji is releasing a brand new phone app on the 24th. Along with the new X-S20 and various other assorted goodies.
I was a firm believer of the X100 series, and thought that I had found my perfect everyday camera when I picked up the V. That is, until I picked up a Q2. Wow!
I now own both the Q2 and Q2 Monochrom
I tried the Fuji but had focus error problems so had to return. Cashed in some gear and bought a used Q2 and love it.
I wouldn't choose the Q2 over the X100V, but I did trade in my X100V for the Q2 monochrom which is a fabulous camera. Come on Fuji, offer us a monochrome option. You won't regret it.
I had one for about a year, and loved it for photography. But it just did not work well for video. The autofocus was spotty at best, and the non-flip screen made it very difficult to vlog. Had to sell it to buy a camera more suitable for hybrid shooting.
Sorry, sad news to share, the Leica Q3, the latest & best just hit the shores of PhotoWorld. Oh well, I guess you'll just have to make-do with the Q2 model. Life can really be tough sometims, right? Just think positive & get out there and keep clicking with what you have. Who knows, there still might be another Museum Photo to be signed with the Q2! 😎😎
A Q2 (or Q3???) is my dream camera. ...the only question is, colour or Monochrom?
Thanks, Chelsea. I like the Q2 but only for about $2500. On the other hand, I like the A7CR for $6000. I own the A7R5 and love the 61mp. Then the clair image zoom where you can crop in 50%. Not to mention the unbelievably quick focus. Hell , I don't know which one to choose.
The Fujifilm app has had issues for years. A new app is being released on May 25th, 2023 and it seems promising. If it provides a stable camera connection, many Fujifilm users, including myself, will be very happy
I have a fixed lens camera too!! It is the amazing Nikon P1000. When I leave the house I’m constantly going for the P1000 because any thing is in reach, plus, macro photography can be done from as little as 1 centimetre away. The only thing that would make me change over is if Nikon brings out the 24MP P1000 upgrade, maybe called the P1024. With optical zoom of 24-3000mm FL, nothing, literally nothing, is like, or even comes close, to this amazing Nikon product. It’s a big, black, beautiful, powerful, man’s camera. None of this tinky toy stuff. Cheers
Those Fuji recipes are crack. It’s hard to let go of them. 😂
Have fun! I loved my q2, until I moved on 😅 great camera. Just a FYI, build muscle memory of any time using the macro mode to change out of it as soon as you get the shot. Or else you could be missing a decisive moment later :p
I switched the X100v to for the Q2 monochrome and then later added an M11. Love them both. I also loved the x100v but too many cameras. lol
Do you miss having the ability to use film recipes? I am considering doing the same, but worried I'll miss the JPEGs.
@@RazeTheWeak I shoot raw, but I did like playing with the film recipes.
11:59: LOL at the misquote of Ansel Adams. It was Chase Jarvis, couldn't be more different 😂😂
Note: The Q3 is supposed to be announced soon with a rumored flip-out LCD screen.
Girl! The Leica Q3 comes out in like a week! Just wait a second!
Love that you do a Q2 review days before the Q3 appeared
Leica is a nice camera,just not for that price.
Making the switch just in time for the Q3 announcement next week haha
Love the review. Interested in why you just don't use a Fuji X Pro 3 and leave a wide angle on it. It is the real stalking horse to the Leica Q2.
You made great choice. I bought the Q2M because I love bw. Good luck, keep clicking.
Hi Guys,
I love your videos. I went to KEH to buy a Leica camera with your link that says 5% discount and KEH is NOT honoring the discount. Don't know why but when I go to pay I see no 5% savings.
you have to try a Q2 monochrom - everything and I mean everything looks different- when I got mine I felt like a kid with my first camera loaded with back and white film-you will want to take a picture of everything just to see what it looks like
All the Leica Q2 Videos on UA-cam, right before the Q3 comes out 😄
I handled the Q2 but could only buy one Leica so went SL2 and have never looked back, just love that camera
The SL2 is a great Camera...
My wishlist is for a lighter and smaller SL3 in the future.
Love my SL2. Can’t wait to see what the SL3 brings to the table. Great times for photography.
@@jsurfin1 i have a buddy who has one.... he wishes the same thing.
@@rumporridge1 Wonder when it's due...
I started with the Q2Mono and just added the Q2. Dynamic Duo - I love them both!
Definitely let us know if you really do sell the X100V and get a Q2 (or if you will be waiting for a Q3?).
Welcome to the Leica Q fam!
Chelsea switching camera systems? Must be a day ending in "y'
Another commercial from leica corp thru the famous UA-camr in the world
@@billybolang7052Well, she switches to and from everything. Funny, with the Q3 inbound why go to Q2 now?
@@rogerhuston8287 No, leica pay them to do the review! That's how they do and they always will be just like every famous UA-camr in the world!
You are basically comparing apples with oranges. In reality difference in quality between the cameras is irrelevant unless you are printing massive prints. I personally think the Panasonic LX100 is a far more compelling camera than either of these cameras because it is a similarly sized compact camera with an awesome large aperture zoom lens at a far better price than either camera plus awesome video capability. Its the most practical compact camera by far. You have said you download the imagers to your phone and post them onto social media. This being the case probably 95%+ of the Leica quality is being wasted. May as well buy the Panasonic and enjoy the added benefit of the zoom with the smaller sensor.
@@warn0245 That's a great point and the Leica version may use the same Leica software with a smartphone which is one of the big benefits Chelsea found with the Q2 compared to the Fuji.
Exept for the purple lips out of the LX100. Or maybe they have fixed that issue with a firmware update since I had the camera some years ago....
That Q2 looks great. I have a (now ancient) Leica D-Lux 109 for a more hands on manual feel with the viewfinder and i love the monochrome modes. Also picked up the Sony zv-1 for video and travelling cause its so small, but its not as tactile to dial in.
So when do we see the Fuji X100Vi vs the Q2 AND the Q3 review?
Nice review! Thanks.. I'm also switching from holga to leica immediately soon as i watch this video, and luckly today I've got my first leica Q2 from thrift store for $5.00 dollars
Chelsea said she was ready for the hate, but wow 😂
I’ll say the difference in image quality IS significant when you consider the Leica is being cropped in from 28mm and still beating the Fuji on objects that are the same distance away. I just finally ordered an X100V now that the prices are coming down, but the Leica is an awesome camera. Show me where else you can get a camera that small with such a wide aperture and sharp lens.
Leica Q3 comes out around 25th of may !flippy screen ?
The x100 has been kicking around for years but it’s crazy what the hipsters have done for the price on these. It always felt a bit compromised to me
Why compare a very expensive camera to an affordable fuji. Most people can not afford a $6,000 dollar camera.