It's impractical, but the M line is impractical by modern standards, anyway. If some doctor with a mid-life crisis wants to spend $15,000+ on a Leica M without an LCD (when they could've simple allowed peeps to flip it over) and a Leica lens or two, that's his business. The line used by working photogs is the SL line (e.g. Steve McCurry) because you still get Leica quality in a modernized camera. The 24-90 f/2.8-4 lens looks sweet.
@@MikeChudleyhaha yeah people getting all flustered over something that’s not even aimed at them. Imagine getting annoyed over the cost of new brake pads on a Bugatti… how dare they charge that much! We as the consumers should protest! Muppets 😂
@@snapsbyfox isn't this like buying a Bugatti that's sold without a windscreen but costs more money? That car is still made for people who usually buy Bugatti's too.
@@Pablomache Car companies do it all the time… limited editions with “weight saving”. I spent 10 years working in automotive and half of the limited edition cars we pumped out were stripped out with a limited edition badge number. No one buys this because it’s good value or because it makes sense. You have to understand that to the target market for these goods, 10k is chump change. They’d spend just as much on a bottle of wine because they can. Which is why Leica or any other luxury brand dont care about the noise made by ‘everyone else’…. Because everyone else is irrelevant in their world. As i was once told when I question the cost of a Hermes bag…. If you dont understand, you’re too poor lol.
It is more expensive to make something the few of them there are. The M11-D would be more expensive to make than the M11-P even with the screen delete.
This is a camera for someone who wants to feel like they’re taking photos with a film camera while still having 90% of the functionality of a digital camera. If that’s you, I love that you have that option. If that’s not you, maybe stop being annoying about it and just let people enjoy things. No one is making you buy this or even asking for your opinion on it.
Who’s being annoying? If you mean people berating this, they’re not wrong. This camera is very much a stupid product, but if there’s a market, great, but enjoy it while accepting it’s a stupid product. A mature person should be able to like something while also admitting it’s dumb. Also, 90% of the functionality of a digital camera? Maybe if you’re talking about digital cameras from decades ago. The majority of a digital camera’s functionality in the current age is accessed from, and comes directly from, its screen. Especially for a digital Leica when the camera only has a few very specific, locked function dials and 1 or 2 customizable buttons to begin with. Everyone saying these D series cameras are too expensive for being the same camera but lacking a touch screen and rear buttons is completely validated. It’s Leica charging more for special editions as they always do. Everyone saying they love this camera regardless is also validated because it’s subjective. I also find it strange you try to tell people who you deem annoying that no one asked for their opinion and yet you’re giving yours seemingly unsolicited. Not in response to another comment but as your own personal rant? I personally find this camera pretty to look at though I wish they would go back to the md 262 dial which was much prettier in my opinion. I would love to have one but I also know it would be a complete waste of money since I can just choose not to look at my current M’s screen, or put a case that covers it if I really can’t exercise the self control.
Haha it’s youtube comments. People never wait to be asked for their opinions before offering it. It kind of just blasts out like violent diarrhea (and usually even less pleasant.)
Thanks for the review…. I’m on the waiting list and should receive in a couple of weeks time…. I’m not a professional, photography is just my hobby and I find the shooting experience a great way to de stress and unwind
Fujifilm X Pro-3 did what this camera is trying to do but without sacrificing the screen entirely. They gave you the option you use the screen or flip / rotate it 180 degrees to hide the screen. Best of both worlds. I wish Leica did that instead
I’m curious to know if it would be impractical to create a camera like the xpro 3 with the flip screen that can rotate on the hinges. Use it screen/no screen 🤔
@@giovannigio6217 I have been shooting for 3 days since I got the 11-D with roughly 200 shots including using the camera's wifi to view the files and download the previews to the phone, now still 55% remaining, it is recommended to drain the battery for the first 2-3 charges to help the battery longevity. I believe it will last for at least another couple of days before I deplete the battery. That being said, the best digital Leica battery longevity still goes to the M262, I don't need to charge this camera for a couple of months of usage, this was possible because of the huge battery and I rarely use the screen, hence I was more than ready for the 11-D experience. The key advantage without the screen is I tend to be conscious of what I want to capture as if I'm using film, hence I only shot 200 images in 3 days, the keeper rate is over 95%, this camera helps me not to be trigger happy.
Imagine trying to use this in 20-30 years time when you have to find an iPhone 15 on eBay with hacked software, powered by wireless charging (0% battery capacity) and an obscure/obsolete usbc cable (wtf), just to configure the settings.
For all the people who say this is a "ripoff"/ "total BS" and stuff and never actually used these cameras (m-d, m10-d, m11-d) :-). -I personally paid 5,5K/6K euros for a used mint m10-d 5 years ago. Now the market price of this rare camera is almost at the same level -> buy a used rare edition of a Leica camera (which this "D" version is - the m10-d sold no more than 2000 units from what I have read). Price is mostly protected, and cost of use in the long term is low, contrary to most other cameras. -There is basically nothing to setup with the phone : most leica users use center-weighted metering and single shot (this is not a sports camera...). Once you set this up, you can use the camera (iso, shutter, aperture) without the phone... I have never changed the settings since I bought the camera. -Isn't it the most beautiful / sleek design of a digital camera ? :-) My m10-d is the camera I had the most pleasure shooting with in the last 20 years... Sometimes I take pictures for a month and have the pleasure to discover them weeks later. I don't think this is a camera for everybody, but if you think this is for you... this might be the one.
I still use film cameras and somehow not being able to view your image immediately can be frustrating but there is that little something about staying in the moment, staying in the vibe, staying in the emotion....I don't know I'll start talking BS if I keep going...lol
a top of the line sensor, in a body which is designed to keep the photographer focused, it’s wild to see this be in the form factor of the highest quality camera money aside, it is cool
Being an owner of a M6 & M11, I can get the best of both worlds with the film n digital experience. Since finding about the M10D a couple of years ago it’s always interested me. But nothing can beat the experience of the M6 :) great vid as always!
I have an M4 and LOVE shooting my M10-D, I've been on the fence about updating to the 11 but means replacing a lot. It may not beat your experience but sometimes it's nice not to have to spend time developing a roll or sending it out if thats your method. You should definitely try one :)
@@David-u2b5p If it's just one camera more often it's my M10D because I don't have to worry about developing the film. If I take both I'll typically choose a single lens for each. When I do things where I need my Sony kit I usually include the M4 with a single lens.
I really like the no screen thing. If you need reading glasses a screen can slow you down. On my camera i have screen folded in and just use buttons and dials unless i really wanna check something or want to scroll through later.
This is actually the first digital Leica that has peaked my interest, I often shoot with LCD's closed and using the EVF. So having that but with an actual rangefinder would be gorgeous. Interesting to hear your first impressions and some awesome shots!
Thanks for the video, Mike! You’ve taken some really cool pictures at the BMX event. Are they edited in anyway? If they are edited, what are some of the edits you had to make? I’m asking in a very general sense, not asking for details. Thanks again for the video and photos.
great video. apart from the other disadvantages of not having the screen which you'll surely find in the comments, in the moment you pick the phone to change settings or viewing photos you are distracted by it which is not ideal. I don't know you but when I take photos I put my phone in "do not disturb mode". the flip side of this argument is, if you use the M11-D extensively, changing just the exposure triangle elements with the physical controls on camera, and then you go for a coffee and you want to relax reviewing photos, this won't interfere with the creative process.
Iam 70 so in my day not only did you not have no screen you had to wait for the film to came back from the lab before you knew what the photos look like. I used a Nikon F back in the 70s. thank god for technology is what I say i don't want to go back to the old days. Nice video by the way. 😊
Hi Mike, please could you check on the app whether you can set white balance manually? Leica's "technical data" document says you can on page 3 but their instructions document on page 62 says you only have 2 options - automatic control and fixed presets, i.e. no manual.
Thank you for this, good overall coverage. Am seriously considering the 'D' but wondering whether having a smartphone is essential for being able to use the D. Getting the impression it may be essential for initially setting it up the way you want it - sounds like the viewfinder only allows for a handful of functions to be set. Is that right? . . . haven't gotten a really clear answer to this from review videos and Leica's own materials. Can an Apple tablet be used instead of a smartphone? . . . I've gotten the impression maybe not ??? Thanks !
great video mike, awesome photos you got at the park, Leica is def on my bucket list of dream cameras to own, when do you think the M12 will drop? that may be the one I get...
What confuses me about the D line is why it costs more than the standard M models. I’m not saying it should be $2K - I realize we’re talking about Leica - but shouldn’t it genuinely have a lower cost of manufacturing with no AF, EVF, screen etc.?
Because in manufacturing producing less numbers is more expensive, even if it has less features. Think of a simple small production car vs a mass produced car. Fewer numbers always more expensive. Leica MD will have its own production team.
The only thing that angers me about the camera is I can't afford one right now. It's a bit of a dream for me. Hope I can be blessed enough to get one eventually.
Leica’s B&W cameras are exceptional because they give you 4 times the resolution of an equivalent colour sensor converted to B&W, and no filter over the sensor. This superpower fully justifies their existence.
Chimping disabled for 10000$ or just get a Leica film camera. That's actually why I like the Xpro3 where one can reverse the display for not chimping all the time. Or like I do turn the display off... but as you said different horses for different courses 😌
I saved almost six thousand by using will power. You see, I bought a camera with the same megapixels and … a folding screen. I don’t have to fiddle around with a phone to set it up and then out on the street I don’t use it and don’t worry about scratching it, which incidentally is what you’d be doing with a non-D M11. It’s smaller, well slightly ‘cos it’s got a decent grip depth and you can put autofocus lenses on it too if you want. No red dot but the MP doesn’t have one either … 😜
Weird camera. Less feature (no LCD) but more expensive? Hmmm... Now I wonder who are the audiences targeted by this camera. Perhaps folks who are disillusioned by tech, saying tech is confusing, more robotic, less soulful/pure/ Look. I sort of get it. That's why I still use a few film cameras (mostly medium format) for fun, which are even more minimalist because there are no automation whatsoever. And I'm going to spend quite lot of money for a camera, I expect it to provide more modern convenience. This camera is $9K-ish and yet doesn't provide AF, for example? And no LCD means no idea how the images look like. My oh my.... sounds like a super expensive film camera :D
Місяць тому
I use a Sony A7III and use a custom button to manually toggle between the EVF and the screen. 95% of the time I keep it in "EVF" mode and it feels less distracting than if the screen is left on, so I think Leica definitely is on to something here, just a bit *too* extreme?
Right now, you delete images instead of formating. If you want a full format, you can use sdformater from SDA Software. But would be strange if they did not make an update to the Leica Fotos App later on. One thing that would annoy me more, is that you are forced to have a phone with you to change things like drive settings, exposure modes, white balance etc. That somehow kills the feeling of being "free".... 🤨
I have a combination of Leica 6-bit coded lenses and Voigtlander lenses that need to be manually set when I swap. Having to use the phone every time I lens swap versus a few quick taps on a screen. No bueno. Although I suspect anyone buying a D-variant is using exclusively Leica lenses.
@@prherman so niche. Means it’s not for you, not stupid. I have a mix of 6 bit and vintage uncoded. Some make sense for the D and some don’t. An unlikely sole camera, again because it is niche.
@@RegrinderAlert I saw a review from Mike Chudley and other reviewers who still had freezing problems with their Leica M11-P. So the chances are high they didn't fix it with the M11-D either.
The viewfinder information would stop updating perhaps. But since the firmware it ships with has all the M11(P) fixes applied already, there should be zero freezing. Mine hasn't frozen and haven't heard of anybody with that issue so far.
I would love this camera but if the goal is to replicate the shooting experience of film with the convenience of a digital dark room. Then why the hell didn't Leica take the obvious opportunity to use the advance lever as a method to cock the shutter to take the next shot? This is the 3rd iteration and they still haven't done that yet. 😅
Those who want a M11D already know it - the rest of us are just watching videos in disbelief that a camera in 2024 that costs more than a used car requires a MOBILE PHONE to change settings. Because the OG M11 exists and is proof what is possible.
I use the M11-P and M-A. In my opinion, a digital camera should have a screen. I often use the Apo-telyt 135mm and at open aperture, I need the screen to focus properly. Without the screen, I can't utilize the multiple crop focal length mode or is inconvenient to switch between color and black-and-white modes. I believe a camera without a screen is only suitable for film cameras.
Leica is definitely Jaguar. Looks super sexy. Fun as hell to drive. May just die in the garage for no reason. This camera is a trollfest. I love and shoot Leica... but the MD series should be cheaper than the standard line not MORE expensive. People who say you can get the Leica experience with other cameras are wrong, absolutely. But people who say you can't get the MD experience from another M are wrong too.
It’s because of the limited runs of the D series. They have to set up tooling and invest the costs in packaging, marketing, etc. with less units to recoup the costs.
As a former leica hater to now m11 user, I think Ive come to understand it’s okay to have niche and specific products. Not going to lie the idea of not having the screen really sounds so nice, I chimp too much and I lose immersion cuz of it. I think it’s a super cool idea, people need to chill out a bit. The reality is these will sell out so there are people who desire the stripped back experience
Before the M10-D, there was the M-D, the M10-D....so it's not the 1st Leica without LCD. And for real, it does look worlds better, than the shit show LCD onto the back, because it always breaks the classic rangefinder design. I wouldn't buy it for that price - but i love my 35mm Film SLRs and rangefinders (no Leica). But without LCD, ppl don't chimp on location (which i 99% never do) and you can focus more onto just the compostion. If you've been grown up with film, not digital...it's quite ordinary, to work without a shitty LCD display on your gear - much better aesthethics.
I'd say Leica is the Rolls-Royce, definitely not a Porsche (with it's lack of 20 fps burst that every photog needs to make images these days). If I was getting an obscenely expensive camera, I'd rather get a medium format camera. Then I'm at least getting something different from the FF look that is perceptible to viewers (at least knowledgeable ones...who am I kidding, after all)...the ability to shoot wide with a very shallow DOF.
I really can’t agree with comparison with car brands and this camera. This would be like Bentley without airbags, power steering, no air conditioning… I am not judging people buying this camera but again I can’t justify the cost and what it is.
Here is the dumbest question you'll get all day. Where are you getting the white background to place your photos on when editing your video? Sorry for the dopey question
I shoot my M10-D more than my M10-R. For those wondering about the settings, you set them once and really never change them. It's not a settings heavy camera so there's not a lot your going to change and I'd image that translates over to the M11-D. If you absolutely need a screen then get the Visoflex and you'll see how little you even use that.
Nothing wrong with it (or the idea) at all! Don’t get the hate for the camera itself. But throwing 8/9grand at it… Completely ridiculous to be honest lol. I get if you have the money why not, but just because you have it doesn’t mean it should be. Even 5 grand would be kinda silly. But I get that. Premium product, everything costs more yada yada, but almost double that? It’s low key legal scamming 😂
@@David-u2b5p I don’t dispute that… but that much more? Things have sorta gotten out of hand post COVID really. I guess while people are paying it then 🤷🏻♂️ It’s just wild though. There’s no justification for it, even being limited.
Two German camera engineers at Leica made the bet as to who would be stupid enough to pay the money for this camera that lacks functionality and uses the stupidity of simplicity to try and sell it. Anyone who purchases this camera is completely clouded when it comes to reality. I own Leica equipment and I’m not stupid enough to even purchase such a camera.
"Niche" is just a trendy word used to justify getting less for more. It's a professional camera, WE the user should be allowed to decide how to control our gear. Justifying the limitations of such a camera is no more than Leica-fanboy-ism!
Getting the popcorn ready for the comments section 😂
It's impractical, but the M line is impractical by modern standards, anyway. If some doctor with a mid-life crisis wants to spend $15,000+ on a Leica M without an LCD (when they could've simple allowed peeps to flip it over) and a Leica lens or two, that's his business. The line used by working photogs is the SL line (e.g. Steve McCurry) because you still get Leica quality in a modernized camera. The 24-90 f/2.8-4 lens looks sweet.
Im right with ya haha
@@MikeChudleyhaha yeah people getting all flustered over something that’s not even aimed at them. Imagine getting annoyed over the cost of new brake pads on a Bugatti… how dare they charge that much! We as the consumers should protest! Muppets 😂
@@snapsbyfox isn't this like buying a Bugatti that's sold without a windscreen but costs more money? That car is still made for people who usually buy Bugatti's too.
@@Pablomache Car companies do it all the time… limited editions with “weight saving”. I spent 10 years working in automotive and half of the limited edition cars we pumped out were stripped out with a limited edition badge number. No one buys this because it’s good value or because it makes sense. You have to understand that to the target market for these goods, 10k is chump change. They’d spend just as much on a bottle of wine because they can. Which is why Leica or any other luxury brand dont care about the noise made by ‘everyone else’…. Because everyone else is irrelevant in their world. As i was once told when I question the cost of a Hermes bag…. If you dont understand, you’re too poor lol.
I think the frustrating thing is that the M11-d is more expensive than the M11-p all because they *removed* a feature.
It is more expensive to make something the few of them there are. The M11-D would be more expensive to make than the M11-P even with the screen delete.
@@bludworthhmmm just a new back shell without a display or buttons doesn’t take much retooling. Certainly not for a small production run like Leica.
@@RogierYou it's way more than that. Changes the internals, the software, the rangefinder display, the top plate, etc. Much much more.
This is a camera for someone who wants to feel like they’re taking photos with a film camera while still having 90% of the functionality of a digital camera. If that’s you, I love that you have that option. If that’s not you, maybe stop being annoying about it and just let people enjoy things. No one is making you buy this or even asking for your opinion on it.
That's the perfect summary and attitude. It's an M11-P in a MP body and its gorgeous; but I'd choose the screen every time. Probably
Who’s being annoying? If you mean people berating this, they’re not wrong. This camera is very much a stupid product, but if there’s a market, great, but enjoy it while accepting it’s a stupid product. A mature person should be able to like something while also admitting it’s dumb. Also, 90% of the functionality of a digital camera? Maybe if you’re talking about digital cameras from decades ago. The majority of a digital camera’s functionality in the current age is accessed from, and comes directly from, its screen. Especially for a digital Leica when the camera only has a few very specific, locked function dials and 1 or 2 customizable buttons to begin with. Everyone saying these D series cameras are too expensive for being the same camera but lacking a touch screen and rear buttons is completely validated. It’s Leica charging more for special editions as they always do. Everyone saying they love this camera regardless is also validated because it’s subjective. I also find it strange you try to tell people who you deem annoying that no one asked for their opinion and yet you’re giving yours seemingly unsolicited. Not in response to another comment but as your own personal rant? I personally find this camera pretty to look at though I wish they would go back to the md 262 dial which was much prettier in my opinion. I would love to have one but I also know it would be a complete waste of money since I can just choose not to look at my current M’s screen, or put a case that covers it if I really can’t exercise the self control.
Haha it’s youtube comments. People never wait to be asked for their opinions before offering it. It kind of just blasts out like violent diarrhea (and usually even less pleasant.)
@@williamlaslHmmm, I don’t know. I’ve never considered violent diarrhea pleasant whichever way I look at it … 😂
Thanks for the review…. I’m on the waiting list and should receive in a couple of weeks time…. I’m not a professional, photography is just my hobby and I find the shooting experience a great way to de stress and unwind
Fujifilm X Pro-3 did what this camera is trying to do but without sacrificing the screen entirely. They gave you the option you use the screen or flip / rotate it 180 degrees to hide the screen. Best of both worlds. I wish Leica did that instead
you think x-pro4 will ever drop?
The X-Pro 3 felt gimmicky with it's small extra screen.
@RegrinderAlert I program my small extra screen to just show my settings: ISO, f stop, and most importantly shutter speed. Definitely super useful
@@jordanlmiller it would be nice but I dont knows if it will
I’m curious to know if it would be impractical to create a camera like the xpro 3 with the flip screen that can rotate on the hinges. Use it screen/no screen 🤔
I love that this camera exists. For anyone who wants it that’s great. I’d rather get the regular M11, but options are always good.
Have you noticed improved battery life over the M11 P with the D not having a screen?
this would be cool to know, I upvoted the comment
@@giovannigio6217 I have been shooting for 3 days since I got the 11-D with roughly 200 shots including using the camera's wifi to view the files and download the previews to the phone, now still 55% remaining, it is recommended to drain the battery for the first 2-3 charges to help the battery longevity. I believe it will last for at least another couple of days before I deplete the battery. That being said, the best digital Leica battery longevity still goes to the M262, I don't need to charge this camera for a couple of months of usage, this was possible because of the huge battery and I rarely use the screen, hence I was more than ready for the 11-D experience.
The key advantage without the screen is I tend to be conscious of what I want to capture as if I'm using film, hence I only shot 200 images in 3 days, the keeper rate is over 95%, this camera helps me not to be trigger happy.
It didn’t make a difference regarding the M10 and the M10-D.
Imagine trying to use this in 20-30 years time when you have to find an iPhone 15 on eBay with hacked software, powered by wireless charging (0% battery capacity) and an obscure/obsolete usbc cable (wtf), just to configure the settings.
in 30 years that will be the least of your concerns, you will probably have emulators, they already exist... the issue is going to be the batteries.
For all the people who say this is a "ripoff"/ "total BS" and stuff and never actually used these cameras (m-d, m10-d, m11-d) :-).
-I personally paid 5,5K/6K euros for a used mint m10-d 5 years ago. Now the market price of this rare camera is almost at the same level -> buy a used rare edition of a Leica camera (which this "D" version is - the m10-d sold no more than 2000 units from what I have read). Price is mostly protected, and cost of use in the long term is low, contrary to most other cameras.
-There is basically nothing to setup with the phone : most leica users use center-weighted metering and single shot (this is not a sports camera...). Once you set this up, you can use the camera (iso, shutter, aperture) without the phone... I have never changed the settings since I bought the camera.
-Isn't it the most beautiful / sleek design of a digital camera ? :-) My m10-d is the camera I had the most pleasure shooting with in the last 20 years... Sometimes I take pictures for a month and have the pleasure to discover them weeks later.
I don't think this is a camera for everybody, but if you think this is for you... this might be the one.
I still use film cameras and somehow not being able to view your image immediately can be frustrating but there is that little something about staying in the moment, staying in the vibe, staying in the emotion....I don't know I'll start talking BS if I keep going...lol
a top of the line sensor, in a body which is designed to keep the photographer focused, it’s wild to see this be in the form factor of the highest quality camera
money aside, it is cool
Being an owner of a M6 & M11, I can get the best of both worlds with the film n digital experience. Since finding about the M10D a couple of years ago it’s always interested me. But nothing can beat the experience of the M6 :) great vid as always!
I have an M4 and LOVE shooting my M10-D, I've been on the fence about updating to the 11 but means replacing a lot. It may not beat your experience but sometimes it's nice not to have to spend time developing a roll or sending it out if thats your method. You should definitely try one :)
@@blasimattm4 or or the MD which one ?
@@David-u2b5p If it's just one camera more often it's my M10D because I don't have to worry about developing the film. If I take both I'll typically choose a single lens for each. When I do things where I need my Sony kit I usually include the M4 with a single lens.
I really like the no screen thing. If you need reading glasses a screen can slow you down. On my camera i have screen folded in and just use buttons and dials unless i really wanna check something or want to scroll through later.
This is actually the first digital Leica that has peaked my interest, I often shoot with LCD's closed and using the EVF. So having that but with an actual rangefinder would be gorgeous. Interesting to hear your first impressions and some awesome shots!
Cheaper alternative: Fujifil X-Pro3 or X100VI (just deactivate the screen)
@@dreamlogic1563again, actual rangefinder
@@dreamlogic1563 Still waiting for X-Pro4 with no ribbon cable issues
Wow, those photos are really fantastic 🎉
Thank you!
Thanks for the video, Mike! You’ve taken some really cool pictures at the BMX event. Are they edited in anyway? If they are edited, what are some of the edits you had to make? I’m asking in a very general sense, not asking for details. Thanks again for the video and photos.
great video. apart from the other disadvantages of not having the screen which you'll surely find in the comments, in the moment you pick the phone to change settings or viewing photos you are distracted by it which is not ideal. I don't know you but when I take photos I put my phone in "do not disturb mode". the flip side of this argument is, if you use the M11-D extensively, changing just the exposure triangle elements with the physical controls on camera, and then you go for a coffee and you want to relax reviewing photos, this won't interfere with the creative process.
Iam 70 so in my day not only did you not have no screen you had to wait for the film to came back from the lab before you knew what the photos look like.
I used a Nikon F back in the 70s. thank god for technology is what I say i don't want to go back to the old days.
Nice video by the way. 😊
Yup! I'm 80. TG for digital and SCREEN! Oh! They can buy Olympus' Visoflex! Why?
Hi Mike, please could you check on the app whether you can set white balance manually? Leica's "technical data" document says you can on page 3 but their instructions document on page 62 says you only have 2 options - automatic control and fixed presets, i.e. no manual.
Thank you for this, good overall coverage. Am seriously considering the 'D' but wondering whether having a smartphone is essential for being able to use the D. Getting the impression it may be essential for initially setting it up the way you want it - sounds like the viewfinder only allows for a handful of functions to be set. Is that right? . . . haven't gotten a really clear answer to this from review videos and Leica's own materials. Can an Apple tablet be used instead of a smartphone? . . . I've gotten the impression maybe not ??? Thanks !
Agree. Thanks.
great video mike, awesome photos you got at the park, Leica is def on my bucket list of dream cameras to own, when do you think the M12 will drop? that may be the one I get...
After the experience with both, which one you would choose ?
M11-P :)
This is a time traveler camera used to blend in when traveling in the past
Nice shots!
What confuses me about the D line is why it costs more than the standard M models. I’m not saying it should be $2K - I realize we’re talking about Leica - but shouldn’t it genuinely have a lower cost of manufacturing with no AF, EVF, screen etc.?
Because in manufacturing producing less numbers is more expensive, even if it has less features. Think of a simple small production car vs a mass produced car. Fewer numbers always more expensive. Leica MD will have its own production team.
The only thing that angers me about the camera is I can't afford one right now. It's a bit of a dream for me. Hope I can be blessed enough to get one eventually.
Leica’s B&W cameras are exceptional because they give you 4 times the resolution of an equivalent colour sensor converted to B&W, and no filter over the sensor. This superpower fully justifies their existence.
Chimping disabled for 10000$ or just get a Leica film camera. That's actually why I like the Xpro3 where one can reverse the display for not chimping all the time. Or like I do turn the display off... but as you said different horses for different courses 😌
it's interesting that the m11-d is more expensive then the m11. I think the newer Pixii Max would be a good alternative for those who like bnw.
I love it. I would buy this in a heartbeat if I could afford it.
I saved almost six thousand by using will power. You see, I bought a camera with the same megapixels and … a folding screen. I don’t have to fiddle around with a phone to set it up and then out on the street I don’t use it and don’t worry about scratching it, which incidentally is what you’d be doing with a non-D M11. It’s smaller, well slightly ‘cos it’s got a decent grip depth and you can put autofocus lenses on it too if you want. No red dot but the MP doesn’t have one either … 😜
Just curious, does a Visoflex still work on it?
yeah I tried it - didn't like it haha
Having to connect it to a phone to change settings kinda defeats the purpose 😅
It’s also lighter and doesn’t get hot?
Weird camera. Less feature (no LCD) but more expensive? Hmmm...
Now I wonder who are the audiences targeted by this camera. Perhaps folks who are disillusioned by tech, saying tech is confusing, more robotic, less soulful/pure/
Look. I sort of get it. That's why I still use a few film cameras (mostly medium format) for fun, which are even more minimalist because there are no automation whatsoever. And I'm going to spend quite lot of money for a camera, I expect it to provide more modern convenience. This camera is $9K-ish and yet doesn't provide AF, for example? And no LCD means no idea how the images look like. My oh my.... sounds like a super expensive film camera :D
I use a Sony A7III and use a custom button to manually toggle between the EVF and the screen. 95% of the time I keep it in "EVF" mode and it feels less distracting than if the screen is left on, so I think Leica definitely is on to something here, just a bit *too* extreme?
I have the M10-D. The thumb lever is a joy! I would have bought this model if it had the same thumb lever. It doesn’t. 🤷♂️
How do you format an SD card or clear internal memory?
Right now, you delete images instead of formating. If you want a full format, you can use sdformater from SDA Software. But would be strange if they did not make an update to the Leica Fotos App later on.
One thing that would annoy me more, is that you are forced to have a phone with you to change things like drive settings, exposure modes, white balance etc. That somehow kills the feeling of being "free".... 🤨
I think it's a great camera for film photography style
I think its annoying as hell to rely on the phone to change some settings... its a stupid niche market.
"stupid"? or just niche?
I have a combination of Leica 6-bit coded lenses and Voigtlander lenses that need to be manually set when I swap. Having to use the phone every time I lens swap versus a few quick taps on a screen. No bueno. Although I suspect anyone buying a D-variant is using exclusively Leica lenses.
@@prherman so niche. Means it’s not for you, not stupid. I have a mix of 6 bit and vintage uncoded. Some make sense for the D and some don’t. An unlikely sole camera, again because it is niche.
@@bludworth I didn’t use the word “stupid” someone else did.
Genius marketing by Leica, niche market for sure , and guess what people do not have to buy if they don’t want to.
I’ve always wanted a Leica M-D, it just appeals to me. That said, there’s a difference between wanting and needing I guess.
No screen makes the whole M11 freezing issue even worse...
how is that then?🤔
@@n2kos because you won't know when it's frozen at a guess
The issue has been fixed with newer firmware and the M-D carries over those fixes.
@@RegrinderAlert Nonsense!
@@RegrinderAlert I saw a review from Mike Chudley and other reviewers who still had freezing problems with their Leica M11-P. So the chances are high they didn't fix it with the M11-D either.
How do you know when this Leica has frozen? At least with a screen you get a heads up that there's something wrong.
The viewfinder information would stop updating perhaps. But since the firmware it ships with has all the M11(P) fixes applied already, there should be zero freezing. Mine hasn't frozen and haven't heard of anybody with that issue so far.
@@RegrinderAlert but there's a chance it could and you might not even know about it?
I would love this camera but if the goal is to replicate the shooting experience of film with the convenience of a digital dark room. Then why the hell didn't Leica take the obvious opportunity to use the advance lever as a method to cock the shutter to take the next shot? This is the 3rd iteration and they still haven't done that yet. 😅
I believe it’s great
I believe it should have those others functions tho
It should be a lower cost model.
Buy a second hand Leica Q and you’ve got all the Leica you’ll ever need in reality
No Leica MP comparison in terms of shooting experience?
Those who want a M11D already know it - the rest of us are just watching videos in disbelief that a camera in 2024 that costs more than a used car requires a MOBILE PHONE to change settings. Because the OG M11 exists and is proof what is possible.
I use the M11-P and M-A. In my opinion, a digital camera should have a screen. I often use the Apo-telyt 135mm and at open aperture, I need the screen to focus properly. Without the screen, I can't utilize the multiple crop focal length mode or is inconvenient to switch between color and black-and-white modes. I believe a camera without a screen is only suitable for film cameras.
Leica is definitely Jaguar. Looks super sexy. Fun as hell to drive. May just die in the garage for no reason.
This camera is a trollfest. I love and shoot Leica... but the MD series should be cheaper than the standard line not MORE expensive. People who say you can get the Leica experience with other cameras are wrong, absolutely. But people who say you can't get the MD experience from another M are wrong too.
It’s because of the limited runs of the D series. They have to set up tooling and invest the costs in packaging, marketing, etc. with less units to recoup the costs.
The camera looks sexy. Only if it was a bit cheaper.
As a former leica hater to now m11 user, I think Ive come to understand it’s okay to have niche and specific products. Not going to lie the idea of not having the screen really sounds so nice, I chimp too much and I lose immersion cuz of it. I think it’s a super cool idea, people need to chill out a bit. The reality is these will sell out so there are people who desire the stripped back experience
I love the concept of the M-D cams but the price is not worth it.
Before the M10-D, there was the M-D, the M10-D....so it's not the 1st Leica without LCD. And for real, it does look worlds better, than the shit show LCD onto the back, because it always breaks the classic rangefinder design. I wouldn't buy it for that price - but i love my 35mm Film SLRs and rangefinders (no Leica). But without LCD, ppl don't chimp on location (which i 99% never do) and you can focus more onto just the compostion.
If you've been grown up with film, not digital...it's quite ordinary, to work without a shitty LCD display on your gear - much better aesthethics.
Emotional… hahahahaha. Bike photos are with all in focus. So 10.000$ for a point & shoot experience at f16. Well-done!!! 😂
Green Estates
I'd say Leica is the Rolls-Royce, definitely not a Porsche (with it's lack of 20 fps burst that every photog needs to make images these days). If I was getting an obscenely expensive camera, I'd rather get a medium format camera. Then I'm at least getting something different from the FF look that is perceptible to viewers (at least knowledgeable ones...who am I kidding, after all)...the ability to shoot wide with a very shallow DOF.
I really can’t agree with comparison with car brands and this camera. This would be like Bentley without airbags, power steering, no air conditioning…
I am not judging people buying this camera but again I can’t justify the cost and what it is.
Haha no airbags is a funny one
If Sony is BMW, maybe this is more like a luxury sailboat or a race horse. Super expensive, hard to use, and mostly had for bragging rights.
Idea for leica to make batteries you can only use once and than you need to buy new one. So you can get that nice feeling of buying film... 😮💨
Alot out focus on the pix
If this camera appeals to you, just buy an M6
Monochrome MD?!?!? 😂
❤
what did you like the most and what did you dislike the most. I kinda miss that.
Here is the dumbest question you'll get all day. Where are you getting the white background to place your photos on when editing your video? Sorry for the dopey question
I shoot my M10-D more than my M10-R. For those wondering about the settings, you set them once and really never change them. It's not a settings heavy camera so there's not a lot your going to change and I'd image that translates over to the M11-D. If you absolutely need a screen then get the Visoflex and you'll see how little you even use that.
Nothing wrong with it (or the idea) at all! Don’t get the hate for the camera itself. But throwing 8/9grand at it… Completely ridiculous to be honest lol. I get if you have the money why not, but just because you have it doesn’t mean it should be. Even 5 grand would be kinda silly. But I get that. Premium product, everything costs more yada yada, but almost double that? It’s low key legal scamming 😂
Low number manufacturing always costs more. Think of small production cars
@@David-u2b5p I don’t dispute that… but that much more? Things have sorta gotten out of hand post COVID really. I guess while people are paying it then 🤷🏻♂️ It’s just wild though. There’s no justification for it, even being limited.
@@Gwi1ty Yes your right, a Leica M3 adjusted for inflation would be 3k USD brand new when it came out. Now Leicas go for 3 times more.
@@David-u2b5p inflation has nothing to do with it. Some counties have high inflation, some don’t. It still doesn’t change what they are charging.
@@Gwi1ty What is it then ?
I'm sure this doesn't apply here but I read somewhere that
"fools and their money are soon parted". (:
Two German camera engineers at Leica made the bet as to who would be stupid enough to pay the money for this camera that lacks functionality and uses the stupidity of simplicity to try and sell it. Anyone who purchases this camera is completely clouded when it comes to reality. I own Leica equipment and I’m not stupid enough to even purchase such a camera.
I own this camera and I run a 6 figure business. I am not stupid 😅
I like Leica but this camera is beyond a rip-off
Sorry you keep pricing gear in dollars i find too annoying unsubscribing.
Bro what? Use a calculator.
@@spooky_lights you have missed the point.
"Niche" is just a trendy word used to justify getting less for more. It's a professional camera, WE the user should be allowed to decide how to control our gear. Justifying the limitations of such a camera is no more than Leica-fanboy-ism!