Its the exact same camera rebranded and upped in price. If I want the brand I'd go buy one of the actual digital rangefinders. Or in my case a Minolta CLE for my 50mm summicron 1.2 DR plus the fujifilm mini evo and still have money left for the film of both cameras. @@btonelli
I bought one for my daughter for Christmas and then realized I had pre ordered one as well and forgot about it. Instead of sending the second one back, I decided to try it out. Like you said, it’s just a lot of fun and you get decent shots. Leica also sells little wooden frames for the photos too show off your masterpiece. I channel my inner Andy Warhol during his SX-70 days and just have fun with it. Thanks for teaching about some of the features of the app - I didn’t realize you could print any photo with the camera!
This is just a Leica branded Fujifilm Instax. Leica collaborated with Fujifilm, and Fujifilm shared its Instax technology with Leica to produce this. Not saying that’s a good or bad thing, just letting people know.
Quick question: In theory, I could also use this as a digital camera, correct? (Example: Take the photos, upload to computer and edit on PC, etc.) Thanks
Already have the mini Evo (1.5 year) but after seeing the Sofort 2 I went to the dealer for preorder the black one and I already came home with it. Build quality, also plastic, feels more solid with only 2 screws on the bottom, so hardly visible and the magnetic lenscap is such a clever addition. Now I’m waiting for the update of the Fotos App, hope it will be November 9 😊
@@btonelliI also noticed there are some differences in the menu compared to the Fuji. For example the sequence of the white balance settings is more logic on the Sofort 2. Also different sounds.
I’ve preordered this in England and should pick it up this coming weekend. Looking forward to some fun with it. You’re so right about the Leica photos app. It leaves Sony and Fuji in the last century by comparison. Great summary mate.
Great review as always! :) I do like this camera. Got the version 1 for my girlfriend and the v2 has got a ton of new features. The advance lever is sick, didn’t even know about it. If I got one, I’d have a hard time choosing between the black and the white. Red dot on white is like a nod to Japan but it is very pretty :). Red dot on black is likely to get a black tape over. I’m just too annoyed with the red dot. They should make a Sofort 2-P with the Leica engraving ;). One disadvantage of this camera is if you use it a lot, it will be almost like using it as your main camera, and the more you use it, the more it will feel like it is lacking the image quality. Instead you will keep piling up «cards»/prints. Of course you can make an album, but so can you with any other camera. I mean, I don’t even know this is an actual issue. I am almost tempted to buy one but at the same time not. An M will always be the fun I seek. On the upside it is amazing that we have got another option to avoid fooling around with our mobile phones. Instead we’ve got the Sofort 2 that makes taking images playful, sociable, and it might get people to think Leica at a young age. Therefore it is also a good marketing stunt? So many thoughts. But that’s what this camera probably is: thought-provoking. A conversation starter. I’ll check it out one day :).
The camera is definitely one I see more people using than not once they get it. It’s versatile, fun and yes you can even print out photos outside of the ones taken by the Sofort when you want to share with people. Haha a P version would be hilarious, but agree the leica script would look cool on it. Leather wrapping around the body. I’m down for it!
Whats the sensor size? If its not full frame i dont want it 😂 Jokes aside it looks like a great stocking stuffer and might even encourage actually printing your photos from any leica camera for gatherings! Nice video man!
No I’m sorry. The Fuji Instax Mini does not fit in. I’ve tried in the shop and it is a little to big. We are really confused because we thougt we could. But let me know if I’m wrong. Somewhere i read that Leica got three film listed and that is there own Sofort. All the best - Lasse
@@btonelli Strange 🤔 Fuji Instax Mini. Yellow dot to yellow dot. We tried many times - different people - two cameras 🤷♂️🤔 The Sofort film will be here today or tomorrow - then we will see.
btw I believe I'm not only one who have noticed sl reporter . would you make some video about your usage of it . wear and tear and how do you like the green version ? ive had for short amount of time q2 reporter ( until was rubbed ) and I hated the mesh on it that was wearing away extending threads of fabric and leaving white-ish spots where I held the camera the most . I was actually in process of giving it in Milan leica to get the rubber 'leatherette' before .. you got the picture . cheers
Ahh yes haha I changed out the fiber wrap to the original SL2 / S wrap and prefer it much more. The Reporter wrap doesn’t hold up unfortunately. Not sure why but it just doesn’t. Looks great in photos and when you get it in your hands the first time, but after a few weeks your camera looks dirty.
@@btonelli I actually bought it today, paired it with the LEICA fotos app but the photos taken by the camera dont show on the app. There is a option Transfer Printed Images which I cannot use because I didnt print the photos... is there another function in the menu that could transfer the photos into the app that I dont know about? Thank you
How much exposure control is there? Any? What kind of film does it take--same as Fuji or proprietary to Leica? Cost of the film (per exposure)? Size of the prints?
Takes Fuji cartridges for film so both leica and Fujifilm work. There is a bit of control but it’s primarily an auto. Cost of film is less expensive than Poloroid. Depends on country pricing.
Bobby, excellent video... But you fail to mention one additional reason to getting the camera... faux snobbery bragging rights... "I own a Leica Camera..."😆😆
Interesting at 7min.45sec. My question is: can it print ANY pictures from the iPhone Photo app, including from NON-LEICA cameras (iPhone, Pentax, Fuji X, Olympus, etc.)? And also, can I send not-already printed pictures to the Leica Fotos app and then to my iPhone Photo app (if I understand, the already-printed ones can be stored into a "My Gallery" section in Fotos...) To sum up, is this camera as useful, convenient, and attractive to non-Leica users?
Yes you can print any photo on your phone regardless of the camera that took it. Think of it like a printer with a lens. Very versatile in that way. Yes it’s attractive to all users really. But to use the fotos app from leica to print you need the camera :)
@@btonelli Thank you! So the Leica is the same camera in a different pyjama, but with a somewhat better relationship with the ubiquitous phone. Maybe not so expensive after all.
I think it is product with very fun concept. I was hoping leica to do something about the pinhole-ish lens from mini Evo and make it slightly more serious camera, but hey, not every camera has to be a serious camera, and it probably was enough for what it is. And if I want to print out image from bit more serious camera, I guess I can do it with other camera and app any ways.
@@btonelli yeah... probably what it already has(5mp, small tiny little something looks like a lens) is more than sufficient enough for sharpness for what it is (an instax printer), but, if it had slightly bigger sensor and lens, it might have slightly more fun on camera side as well.
i’m not understanding the relabel. what sort of improvements leica put into it vs the mini evo? having a leica app and a slightly tweaked instax film formula is not worth the premium price.
To some it won’t be and to others it will. The leica fotos app is a very good app for organisation, syncing photos etc. arguably better than Fujifilm. Leica will always be a premium.
@@robertjureit2574 all film is expensive now unfortunately. You don’t need to always print a photos. You can choose later as the photos are stored in the camera or Leica Fotos app. Print those that you need to
thank You Bobbi for the vid . I must admit ive seen it released in Vienna , where I am often, I immediately wrote it off as plastic garb*ge. although after seeing your personal thrill , that advance lever that actually works ( the sole reason why I did not purchase 10d cause of that stupid fake lever) and after you have pointed out ability to use amazing photo app as a printing for my m11 ! oh I am almost sold !) kudos
Thanks for watching. Honestly I didn’t think I would like it as much as I did. I sort of wrote it off but then was hearing from friends who tried it that this was really fun to use and after testing I agree. I think you will be happy if you decide to get it
@@btonelli yep, and they are getting wayyyy expensive, especially rare ones from Konica Minolta, Kyocera, early Lumix, and especially first gen Leica D-Lux
I’m testing the I-2 currently and I can safely say the hit rate on this in terms of exposure and properly printing images without issues is much higher than Poloroid, plus the film is less expensive
I was not talking about exposure quality but as you mention it, as far as it goes in the past, forty over years, I never seen much exposure problems keeping in mind the goal of Polaroid which was main public souvenirs, the quality was stunning ; further than that the prints colour stand the time after four decades. Remember that Hasselblad made a polaroid back ....they knew what they were doing !
Il take two Fujifilm mini Evo’s every day over the overpriced and badly copy from Leica. On Fuji evo I use optical VF from Fujifilm x70 in the cold shoe which is giving me 28mm field of view and can add extra LED light. That tripod tread hole should be vertical and not horizonatal thought
After seeing the Sofort 2, would you get this or the Fujifilm Mini EVO?
Same camera.
@@jnicholls8146 similar yes but Leica fotos integration much better
@@btonellinot just similar, mechanically identical.
Its the exact same camera rebranded and upped in price. If I want the brand I'd go buy one of the actual digital rangefinders. Or in my case a Minolta CLE for my 50mm summicron 1.2 DR plus the fujifilm mini evo and still have money left for the film of both cameras. @@btonelli
I think it is just a rebranded Fuji
Lucky me for working in Leica Portugal, this month Leica gave that camera to all 800 workers.
Loved it ☺️
Congrats!!! Awesome gift
Is it produced in Portugal?
wow!!
I bought one for my daughter for Christmas and then realized I had pre ordered one as well and forgot about it. Instead of sending the second one back, I decided to try it out. Like you said, it’s just a lot of fun and you get decent shots. Leica also sells little wooden frames for the photos too show off your masterpiece. I channel my inner Andy Warhol during his SX-70 days and just have fun with it. Thanks for teaching about some of the features of the app - I didn’t realize you could print any photo with the camera!
Merry Christmas in advance! Glad you both enjoyed it. Yes it’s a fun camera and the printing of any photo is a nice bonus
Just got one for Christmas, I love it and I totally recommend. My first personal camera since I started working with them, and I love it so far :)
Congrats and Merry Christmas!
Less is more as they say!!! A liberating experience I would say as this is photography with a very simple, easy to enjoy approach!
Agree 💯
This is just a Leica branded Fujifilm Instax.
Leica collaborated with Fujifilm, and Fujifilm shared its Instax technology with Leica to produce this. Not saying that’s a good or bad thing, just letting people know.
Yes in many ways you are right. The big difference is the app that pairs with the camera.
@@btonelli Leica’s photo app should be a featured video on its own, it’s so much better than the rest of the camera manufacturers! Cheers.
@@WatchesAndPhotography it’s something I’m planning to do
Quick question: In theory, I could also use this as a digital camera, correct? (Example: Take the photos, upload to computer and edit on PC, etc.)
Thanks
Yes you can. That’s the versatility of this camera. Again don’t expect high quality photos but the pics aren’t bad
I'm in. I have an older Instax, it doesn't spark joy, and I like the ability to pick exactly which ones are printed.
Yes agree. The choice of what to print is really nice
Bought it ! Merry Christmas to me. Having so much fun with it.
Congrats!
A fun camera to pop in the bag or take to friends places. Definitely picking one up when it's available.
Indeed!
I really don't need this camera, but I want it any ways! The red one looks so fun!
Haha this is how I feel too
@@btonelli red & done :) gonna pair with my Q3/M11/M11 M & share prints or keepers when I shoot!
@@JatinGanapathy awesome! Congrats
May I know what film are you using? Any recommendations? Or we have to use Leica Film specifically? Thanks 😊
I used fujifilm instax film for this review.
@@btonelli thank you very much 😄
Already have the mini Evo (1.5 year) but after seeing the Sofort 2 I went to the dealer for preorder the black one and I already came home with it. Build quality, also plastic, feels more solid with only 2 screws on the bottom, so hardly visible and the magnetic lenscap is such a clever addition. Now I’m waiting for the update of the Fotos App, hope it will be November 9 😊
Yes the Fotos app will be updated. I’m using the Test Flight one for iOS currently. Works great with it
@@btonelliI also noticed there are some differences in the menu compared to the Fuji. For example the sequence of the white balance settings is more logic on the Sofort 2. Also different sounds.
Great Bobby! I’ve one at home and will try it this week too! Hope to meet you soon again! Phil Gonzalez
Hi Phil! Yes hope to meet again soon. Hope all is good with you! Enjoy it when you get it a chance it’s a really fun camera
Really nice review. Also great image & sound quality. Great job, thanks for sharing!
Thank you 🙏
Would you also do a seperate review on Leica branded films for this camera?
I can do a short but a full video on the film would be a bit unnecessary. It’s pretty much made by Fujifilm with Leica branding
I’ve preordered this in England and should pick it up this coming weekend. Looking forward to some fun with it. You’re so right about the Leica photos app. It leaves Sony and Fuji in the last century by comparison. Great summary mate.
Thanks for watching and congrats on getting a Sofort 2
I really need to buy/pre-order this one.
I think I will love it
It’s a lot of fun!!
Cool, yep getting one. Probably the black one.
Black is sexy
Great review as always! :) I do like this camera. Got the version 1 for my girlfriend and the v2 has got a ton of new features. The advance lever is sick, didn’t even know about it. If I got one, I’d have a hard time choosing between the black and the white. Red dot on white is like a nod to Japan but it is very pretty :). Red dot on black is likely to get a black tape over. I’m just too annoyed with the red dot. They should make a Sofort 2-P with the Leica engraving ;). One disadvantage of this camera is if you use it a lot, it will be almost like using it as your main camera, and the more you use it, the more it will feel like it is lacking the image quality. Instead you will keep piling up «cards»/prints. Of course you can make an album, but so can you with any other camera. I mean, I don’t even know this is an actual issue. I am almost tempted to buy one but at the same time not. An M will always be the fun I seek. On the upside it is amazing that we have got another option to avoid fooling around with our mobile phones. Instead we’ve got the Sofort 2 that makes taking images playful, sociable, and it might get people to think Leica at a young age. Therefore it is also a good marketing stunt? So many thoughts. But that’s what this camera probably is: thought-provoking. A conversation starter. I’ll check it out one day :).
The camera is definitely one I see more people using than not once they get it. It’s versatile, fun and yes you can even print out photos outside of the ones taken by the Sofort when you want to share with people.
Haha a P version would be hilarious, but agree the leica script would look cool on it. Leather wrapping around the body. I’m down for it!
@@btonelli I agree, good point about the use! Oh yes, a P version and leather around the body - had to bite my lip for a moment ;).
@@csaba5415 haha yes same
do you have to print a picture in order to transfer to iphone using leica fotos?
Yes. But you can trick the system if you don’t have film inside the camera
Fantastic review and honest opinion especially the fun part 😁
Thank you 🙏
Have tried Fuji Mini Evo? Which one? 😊
Didn’t try the Fujifilm version.
Whats the sensor size? If its not full frame i dont want it 😂
Jokes aside it looks like a great stocking stuffer and might even encourage actually printing your photos from any leica camera for gatherings! Nice video man!
lol!!
Yes it’s a great stocking stuffer for sure. Thanks for the kind words 🙏
@@btonelli How can I get into a friend group/family calling $400 gifts stocking stuffers? That'd be nice!
If get, it will be black. You did not mention what film and where you buy film for this. Can one use Fuji Install Mini films, for example? Thanks.
Yes you can use Fujifilm or Leica’s own film which is essentially the same
No I’m sorry. The Fuji Instax Mini does not fit in. I’ve tried in the shop and it is a little to big. We are really confused because we thougt we could. But let me know if I’m wrong. Somewhere i read that Leica got three film listed and that is there own Sofort. All the best - Lasse
@@quarkroadie well we used Fujifilm cartridges for this vid. Not sure which one you tried but that’s the film we used as Leica’s weren’t in stock
@@btonelli Strange 🤔 Fuji Instax Mini. Yellow dot to yellow dot. We tried many times - different people - two cameras 🤷♂️🤔 The Sofort film will be here today or tomorrow - then we will see.
@@quarkroadie can check. We loaded it no issues.
btw I believe I'm not only one who have noticed sl reporter . would you make some video about your usage of it . wear and tear and how do you like the green version ? ive had for short amount of time q2 reporter ( until was rubbed ) and I hated the mesh on it that was wearing away extending threads of fabric and leaving white-ish spots where I held the camera the most . I was actually in process of giving it in Milan leica to get the rubber 'leatherette' before .. you got the picture .
cheers
Ahh yes haha I changed out the fiber wrap to the original SL2 / S wrap and prefer it much more. The Reporter wrap doesn’t hold up unfortunately. Not sure why but it just doesn’t. Looks great in photos and when you get it in your hands the first time, but after a few weeks your camera looks dirty.
Can this use Fuji instax film?
@@andylowjenyeat7952 yes you can
Hi, is it possible to transfer the digital photos into FOTOS app or into a computer by USB from the camera without printing them? Thank you
Yes you can via the micro SD card or through the photos app. You don’t need to print. It’s an option only
@@btonelli I actually bought it today, paired it with the LEICA fotos app but the photos taken by the camera dont show on the app. There is a option Transfer Printed Images which I cannot use because I didnt print the photos... is there another function in the menu that could transfer the photos into the app that I dont know about? Thank you
@@haivanvu2258 you need to transfer them to the app. Check the menu. It’s not automatic
Can you explain how to transfer the pics to the camera, please?
@@andreaswolf5654 don’t understand. The pics are in the camera after you take them
How much exposure control is there? Any? What kind of film does it take--same as Fuji or proprietary to Leica? Cost of the film (per exposure)? Size of the prints?
Takes Fuji cartridges for film so both leica and Fujifilm work. There is a bit of control but it’s primarily an auto. Cost of film is less expensive than Poloroid. Depends on country pricing.
Great video. Very helpful.
Thanks for watching
Do you get white borders when you download it from the app?
No. It’s a normal image
Please tell me. Is the printing paper expensive?
No. Get the Fujifilm version
I pre-ordered one in Black. How is the build quality? plasticky?
It’s plastic but doesn’t feel cheap. Nothing is loose or creaks
Made in the same Chinese factory as the Fuji Instax.
❤Rebadged Fuji mini EVO, but twice the price.
In some ways but with a better fotos app that helps make the camera more fun to use
Bobby, excellent video... But you fail to mention one additional reason to getting the camera... faux snobbery bragging rights... "I own a Leica Camera..."😆😆
Thanks! Hahaha 🤣
Interesting at 7min.45sec. My question is: can it print ANY pictures from the iPhone Photo app, including from NON-LEICA cameras (iPhone, Pentax, Fuji X, Olympus, etc.)? And also, can I send not-already printed pictures to the Leica Fotos app and then to my iPhone Photo app (if I understand, the already-printed ones can be stored into a "My Gallery" section in Fotos...) To sum up, is this camera as useful, convenient, and attractive to non-Leica users?
Yes you can print any photo on your phone regardless of the camera that took it. Think of it like a printer with a lens. Very versatile in that way.
Yes it’s attractive to all users really. But to use the fotos app from leica to print you need the camera :)
@@btonelli Thank you! So the Leica is the same camera in a different pyjama, but with a somewhat better relationship with the ubiquitous phone. Maybe not so expensive after all.
Mum: "no, we have a Leica at home"
The Leica at home:
@@aesric lol
I think it is product with very fun concept. I was hoping leica to do something about the pinhole-ish lens from mini Evo and make it slightly more serious camera, but hey, not every camera has to be a serious camera, and it probably was enough for what it is. And if I want to print out image from bit more serious camera, I guess I can do it with other camera and app any ways.
True. It serves its purpose well but we could always use better optics :)
@@btonelli yeah... probably what it already has(5mp, small tiny little something looks like a lens) is more than sufficient enough for sharpness for what it is (an instax printer), but, if it had slightly bigger sensor and lens, it might have slightly more fun on camera side as well.
@@seokinchung true but price would go up. I think this price point is more acceptable than let’s say the Poloroid I-2
@@btonelli exactly. I don't think Leica (even Fuji) never intended this to be a state of art device in any shape or form.
@@seokinchung agree. Fun, inexpensive considering and a good device to get people talking
ok the descriptions are described so fast I have to replay it ten times :)
i’m not understanding the relabel. what sort of improvements leica put into it vs the mini evo? having a leica app and a slightly tweaked instax film formula is not worth the premium price.
To some it won’t be and to others it will. The leica fotos app is a very good app for organisation, syncing photos etc. arguably better than Fujifilm.
Leica will always be a premium.
@@btonelli i like their film formula tweak though.
The only difference I see between this and the Fujifilm Mini evo is the color and were they put the tripod mount.
The Leica Fotos app is superior to the Fujifilm
Most important. HOW many pics in a pack. AND price of each print pack. DAAAAAHHHH.
10 sheets for about 9 to 9 USD.
Thank you. That’s quite expensive,but i do like the idea.@@btonelli
@@robertjureit2574 all film is expensive now unfortunately. You don’t need to always print a photos. You can choose later as the photos are stored in the camera or Leica Fotos app. Print those that you need to
thank You Bobbi for the vid . I must admit ive seen it released in Vienna , where I am often, I immediately wrote it off as plastic garb*ge. although after seeing your personal thrill , that advance lever that actually works ( the sole reason why I did not purchase 10d cause of that stupid fake lever) and after you have pointed out ability to use amazing photo app as a printing for my m11 ! oh I am almost sold !) kudos
Thanks for watching. Honestly I didn’t think I would like it as much as I did. I sort of wrote it off but then was hearing from friends who tried it that this was really fun to use and after testing I agree. I think you will be happy if you decide to get it
How do I connect the Sofort2 to the app? I can't find it unfortunately.
There should be an update to the Leica Fotos app soon. Check your App Store
🎉🎉🎉終於有人拍更細😊
This is the only Leica I could ever afford 😂
Leica cameras are definitely priced at a premium
I will buy the red. Haha
Love the red too
I will buy the white color
Great choice
never seen human ears like that on any person in my entire life
@@ApexMyndset huh?
Does it only take Leica film?
and fujifilm
Amazing. Thanks!
Still waiting for Leica to come out with a square format 😢
I guess depends on the demand
Haha thank you!
No prob. It’s the oddest thing why it’s implemented this way.
.... Aaaaaand were back to 5mpix point and shoot cameras....
Haha you know that the big trend now is early 2000’s CCD point and shoots?? About the same quality
@@btonelli yep, and they are getting wayyyy expensive, especially rare ones from Konica Minolta, Kyocera, early Lumix, and especially first gen Leica D-Lux
@@deejayiwan7 yep! All hype
The clone of fuji instax mini Evo with higher price
Yes but it’s still fun to use with better phone app than Fujifilm
199 usd Fuji Mini Evo + 190 usd Leica Tax = Leica Sofort 2 389 usd pretty good deal huh 🤔
For a Leica yes. Like I said in the video, no need to compare, if someone wants a Leica they want a Leica
wait all instant cameras print.
The polaroid pictures were about twice as big, these are post stamp format, pretty useless.
I’m testing the I-2 currently and I can safely say the hit rate on this in terms of exposure and properly printing images without issues is much higher than Poloroid, plus the film is less expensive
I was not talking about exposure quality but as you mention it, as far as it goes in the past, forty over years, I never seen much exposure problems keeping in mind the goal of Polaroid which was main public souvenirs, the quality was stunning ; further than that the prints colour stand the time after four decades. Remember that Hasselblad made a polaroid back ....they knew what they were doing !
Agree. Now the new ones are inconsistent and the film is very expensive.
Possible, I haven't play with it for years.
Tuyệt vời Tuyệt vời
Giabaonhieubanoi
When Leica is going to be great again? 🤣🤣🤣
Haha, Leica hasn’t done too bad :)
A photography channel with no close up on camera. All your focus is on yourself! Pls slow down your speech it feels panicky and zoom in products !
Hmm did you watch more than a few seconds? If you did there are a lot of close ups on the camera
Complete rip off of the instax evo.... Even the print/advance lever is copied
It’s collaboration with Fuji Instax Evo. Basically Instax - Leica edition.
It’s really just about it being a fun camera.
Smell's payed promotion. No thanks
Just because I like a camera doesn’t mean it’s a promo.
@@btonelli The eyes, chico. They never lie. Is payed promotion
@@lonhamlala6846leica doesn’t pay for videos like this. If you are in the industry you would know
Eating a sandwich and nearly gagged at the “the eyes Chico” LOL
@@Deetroiter this guy that wrote that really thinks Leica is going to pay someone to promote a 300 plus USD camera 😂
Il take two Fujifilm mini Evo’s every day over the overpriced and badly copy from Leica. On Fuji evo I use optical VF from Fujifilm x70 in the cold shoe which is giving me 28mm field of view and can add extra LED light. That tripod tread hole should be vertical and not horizonatal thought