This is one of the best videos on this camera on UA-cam. Many people in the world who are in the market for a Leica MP can’t experience one in person before buying without traveling a long way to a Leica store so this is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Gary, I completely understand your enthusiasm. I had the same experience two years ago when I brought a Leica MP home (I had been waiting for that camera for months). Until then I had been shooting with a Konica Hexar RF for over twenty years, so I have a lot of experience with rangefinders. I don't know if it's just my subjective impression to justify the investment of more than 5000 euros, but I feel that I became a better photographer with the Leica MP (just kidding🤣). Otherwise, it's a great review. Keep going and enjoy your Leica!
Great post ….really enjoyed it …had my Mp since 2003 and love it ..I do believe though that it does represent a good step forward over M6 m4p ….both of which I have owned..it’s just a perfect M body… Good luck with yours and hope you enjoy for years .. I know I will …
Great video Gary...I had both the silver/chrome and black paint MP..my favorite was the black paint. Sold the silver/chrome and the black paint was in on the trade at Camera West. Looking back I wish I had kept the black paint..they were much cheaper back then. My late father-in-law had a dark room at his house, it was magic to see the film come alive. Stay focused...
I hope to get one someday. It’s a camera that I prefer, one that is manual only and mechanically operated. To me it’s photography at its purest. No automatic features that do all the work for you. I have used many different cameras but I really want a quality rangefinder camera.
are you in Chicago? I'm hoping to get my MP in the next month or so. I've been shooting with the Nikon Fm2 for the past 6 years or so. If you're in Chicago we shoot meet up downtown for a photowalk/coffee
Sorry I’m not in Chicago. I’m a RV nomad heading through the southwest at the moment. Thank you for the invite. Maybe some when I’m up that way. I like Chicago!
Fantastic video! I currently own an M6 Classic, but it's showing signs of age. I was thinking of just getting the M6 reissue instead of the MP. thoughts? Thank you !
I bought the MP for the same reasons you mention and at the same time a new M7, so that I could have a 28mm on one bodyband 50mm on the other and two different speeds. Now 3 years and 100 Rolls of film, I have to say, that though I still adore the MP for its beauti, I like the M7 more. I use both and is keeping both. I Think the main thing for me is a the bigger time thing on top and the silky smooth shutter on the M7. I also shose the M7 with a 0,85 magnifier to go with the 50mm. The MP is a beauti and looks better on the shelf but a Pick the M7 more often if I only use one lens. And one more thing, try the R9. I have used it for studiowork and it is stunning. I have tried almost any Leicas now 😂
Yes, I loved the precise shutter speeds with the M7. Some folks tell me the M7 soon will be hard to repair especially pertaining to the shutter mechanism. They say the parts will be hard to find. I don't know if this is true.
My experience is that the black MP is worth more than a silver MP used. However, once the brass is showing its value drops and nobody wants it, or they'll take it for a much bigger price drop. Silver is steady as it doesn't show its age or usage.
@@LensForgotten answer from Leica: These cameras are mechanically the same - same viewfinder, shutter, light meter. The difference is cosmetic, but internally they are both the MP, or the M6, if you prefer
Yes, a caption was added in the video and it's mentioned in the description. The Leica name for it is the "quick wind lever". I had rewind on the brain when I shot the video for some reason 🙂
I have a new MP and M2 as a 2nd body. Both are a dream to use. I traded an old M6TTL for my new MP as I had issues with the M6. IMO do NOT use the rewind crank. I managed to scratch the paint with the rewinder. I was able to remove the scratch with QUIXX Paint scratch remover for cars but not an ideal situation I don't like the marks which appear really easily but QUIXX had a sealant which seems to protect the paint so far. Not a fan of the worn look. The MP is certainly much slower to rewind than the M6. I would buy the MP again but probably silver which is more durable than the black model. Everyone seems to like the patina look but if you come to sell it the market wants clear as new with no scratches. Go figure! I am very lucky and pleased to have both these Leicas and these are such small insignificant issues. Regards and enjoy shooting.
I've been thinking about upgrading from my M2 to the MP for the black paint, or the MA for the minimal, mechanical purity. But after going on a solo trip to South East Asia, I don't think I want to part with the self timer for self portraits. 😂
@@LensForgotten Welcome! Yours is a very new Leica MP. The serial number on mine starts at 566XXX which is 2 years old by now when I bought it in 2022. Enjoy!
The most relevant sentence here is "if you can afford it". If not, just get a Nikon FM2n for near indistinguishable results and save yourself $5,000....!!
Hi, great video but stop waisting film! Put your film in as shown without advancing it, close it and crank it twice. Done and ready to shoot! I’m using mainly my Leica IIIa with a summaron 35mm dual mount lens along with my M2 (black repaint) and a Voigtlander Heliar Classic 50mm lens. Have a nice day Gary.
Nothing plastic-y....except the "finicky" and actually plastic ASA dial. I like fetishizing my MP (and Leica gear) as much as anyone but let's be accurate. That thing is an odd outlier in an otherwise solid piece of machinery.
If you have a chance to open or service a M3, M4, M6, and MP (or even M2), you will go back to M3 or M4 unless you really want the handy meter in MP. Materialwise and craftmanshipwise, MP is just a mass-production quick assembled product that is no match with M3 or M4. Also, there is no weather seal at the rewind knob, shutter speed dial, film advance level and shutter release, the top is also loosely fitted (if you ever pull out the top of a M3 or M4 you can understand) and no way to accept that it is mechanically perfect and weatherproof and never try expose your MP to moisture confidently. If you look at a Nikon F2 or F3, you understand what is mechanically perfect even they are 50 years old. Just my experience with barnack and M cameras and all Leica lovers should have the right to know what they paid for.
The MP is hand assembled one part at a time and is brass like the M3/M2/M4-xx/M-A. My MP took over one year to build from the time I ordered it two years ago
I’ve opened and serviced many Leica cameras. MPs are no match for the M3, M2 and M4 in terms of build-quality. They’re well made; similar to the M4p M4-2 or M6 but the later cameras have much more mechanical slop.
This is one of the best videos on this camera on UA-cam. Many people in the world who are in the market for a Leica MP can’t experience one in person before buying without traveling a long way to a Leica store so this is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Thank you! That was very nice of you! Making a Leica purchase is a big investment so I hope this helps others.
Just picked one up this week. It’s absolutely without a doubt, mechanical perfection. I’m in love.
This opening was so good!!!! Love your energy.
Wow! Thank you for checking out my channel. That is something to behold. I appreciate your comments! Love your videos Virginia!
Gary, I completely understand your enthusiasm. I had the same experience two years ago when I brought a Leica MP home (I had been waiting for that camera for months). Until then I had been shooting with a Konica Hexar RF for over twenty years, so I have a lot of experience with rangefinders. I don't know if it's just my subjective impression to justify the investment of more than 5000 euros, but I feel that I became a better photographer with the Leica MP (just kidding🤣). Otherwise, it's a great review. Keep going and enjoy your Leica!
Great post ….really enjoyed it …had my Mp since 2003 and love it ..I do believe though that it does represent a good step forward over M6 m4p ….both of which I have owned..it’s just a perfect M body…
Good luck with yours and hope you enjoy for years .. I know I will …
The MP is a fine camera!
Hahahaha thanks for the shoutout!! Look at me shooting fast and furiously with the Leicavit 😂😎🥳
Great in-depth video on the MP! I love mine 😊
I'm the slow turtle. You will always be the faster one.
I've had mine for about a year now... i love it! new is the best solution but if u can find one gently used is perfect! good luck!
Yes, I love it! Lifetime camera!
Great video Gary!
Thanks 👍
Great video Gary...I had both the silver/chrome and black paint MP..my favorite was the black paint. Sold the silver/chrome and the black paint was in on the trade at Camera West. Looking back I wish I had kept the black paint..they were much cheaper back then. My late father-in-law had a dark room at his house, it was magic to see the film come alive. Stay focused...
Thanks Billy!
how do you like the M2? Is the body made of brass and painted black?
I hope to get one someday. It’s a camera that I prefer, one that is manual only and mechanically operated. To me it’s photography at its purest. No automatic features that do all the work for you. I have used many different cameras but I really want a quality rangefinder camera.
You will love it!
are you in Chicago? I'm hoping to get my MP in the next month or so. I've been shooting with the Nikon Fm2 for the past 6 years or so. If you're in Chicago we shoot meet up downtown for a photowalk/coffee
Sorry I’m not in Chicago. I’m a RV nomad heading through the southwest at the moment. Thank you for the invite. Maybe some when I’m up that way. I like Chicago!
Should you buy? Of course you should! Videos like this one sustain the idea that photography is not about practice. It's about purchase!
Purchase is up to you. For many the right camera sparks inspiration to facilitate practice!
One of the best cameras ever made. Nothing compares to holding it, pressing the shutter and winding the next frame.
10000000% agreed!
Fantastic video! I currently own an M6 Classic, but it's showing signs of age. I was thinking of just getting the M6 reissue instead of the MP. thoughts? Thank you !
If you like the look of the M6, stay with that. The MP move is really about the black paint most of all in your position!
@@LensForgotten thank you:)
I bought the MP for the same reasons you mention and at the same time a new M7, so that I could have a 28mm on one bodyband 50mm on the other and two different speeds. Now 3 years and 100 Rolls of film, I have to say, that though I still adore the MP for its beauti, I like the M7 more. I use both and is keeping both. I Think the main thing for me is a the bigger time thing on top and the silky smooth shutter on the M7. I also shose the M7 with a 0,85 magnifier to go with the 50mm. The MP is a beauti and looks better on the shelf but a Pick the M7 more often if I only use one lens. And one more thing, try the R9. I have used it for studiowork and it is stunning. I have tried almost any Leicas now 😂
Yes, I loved the precise shutter speeds with the M7. Some folks tell me the M7 soon will be hard to repair especially pertaining to the shutter mechanism. They say the parts will be hard to find. I don't know if this is true.
My experience is that the black MP is worth more than a silver MP used. However, once the brass is showing its value drops and nobody wants it, or they'll take it for a much bigger price drop. Silver is steady as it doesn't show its age or usage.
The black MP is awesome!
@ I agree, but …. Above.
What’s the difference for the core design between mp and m6 reissue
Essentially, its a refined M6. The exact specifics inside, you'll have to ask Leica.
@@LensForgotten answer from Leica: These cameras are mechanically the same - same viewfinder, shutter, light meter. The difference is cosmetic, but internally they are both the MP, or the M6, if you prefer
I’ve came so close to buying one. The prices of the new one just went up a little while ago. Is it worth shooting a Leica with voightlander lenses?
Yes, it's frustrating Leica keeps raising the price...ugh!
I have the Artisan & Artist case on mine. Wouldn't leave home without it. I tend to accidentally bump into things.
Did you get those b/w shots without a red or yellow filter?
No filter other than an UV
@@LensForgotten very cool, thanks
It's a film advance lever, not a rewind lever. Rewind is accomplished by a rewind knob. Very informative vid on its functions.
Yes, a caption was added in the video and it's mentioned in the description. The Leica name for it is the "quick wind lever". I had rewind on the brain when I shot the video for some reason 🙂
I have a new MP and M2 as a 2nd body. Both are a dream to use. I traded an old M6TTL for my new MP as I had issues with the M6. IMO do NOT use the rewind crank. I managed to scratch the paint with the rewinder. I was able to remove the scratch with QUIXX Paint scratch remover for cars but not an ideal situation I don't like the marks which appear really easily but QUIXX had a sealant which seems to protect the paint so far. Not a fan of the worn look. The MP is certainly much slower to rewind than the M6. I would buy the MP again but probably silver which is more durable than the black model. Everyone seems to like the patina look but if you come to sell it the market wants clear as new with no scratches. Go figure! I am very lucky and pleased to have both these Leicas and these are such small insignificant issues. Regards and enjoy shooting.
Yes, I have heard the crank add-on can scratch the knob.
I've been thinking about upgrading from my M2 to the MP for the black paint, or the MA for the minimal, mechanical purity. But after going on a solo trip to South East Asia, I don't think I want to part with the self timer for self portraits. 😂
You won't regret it!
Sir, you are loading your Leica incorrectly. :) Please read the manual. Excellent review!
Zimmie....I checked the manual and YOU are correct! Thanks for bringing this up! Stay tuned
Please never ever load your film like that!
@@LensForgotten Welcome! Yours is a very new Leica MP. The serial number on mine starts at 566XXX which is 2 years old by now when I bought it in 2022. Enjoy!
The loading section of this video was removed. New video coming tonight! (9-13) all about loading :-) You'll love it!
@@zimmie1359 Yes, it is a 2024 made model 🙂
Now, if we can convince Nikon to re-release their iconic F2. All of them are 45 years old and older.
I love the F2 and F3...great cameras!
no cover! let it patina, its part of its character
Ok sounds good! It’s hard for me as I baby my leicas. What the heck. Why not? :-)
🤠🎞️
Thanks Frank! love your channel bro...subscribed!
The most relevant sentence here is "if you can afford it". If not, just get a Nikon FM2n for near indistinguishable results and save yourself $5,000....!!
Nice video,
but don’t waste film, 2 times winde is definitely enough. I own a MP in black paint, and like it very much
Your comment dovetails with the proper way to load the camera comment above. Stay tuned. Thanks
It’s a great camera, but the Leica M2 …and M5 are much better.
I want a M5!
Hi, great video but stop waisting film! Put your film in as shown without advancing it, close it and crank it twice. Done and ready to shoot! I’m using mainly my Leica IIIa with a summaron 35mm dual mount lens along with my M2 (black repaint) and a Voigtlander Heliar Classic 50mm lens. Have a nice day Gary.
Agreed, Thank you!! 🙂
Nothing plastic-y....except the "finicky" and actually plastic ASA dial. I like fetishizing my MP (and Leica gear) as much as anyone but let's be accurate. That thing is an odd outlier in an otherwise solid piece of machinery.
The dial doesn’t feel cheap, it’s just hard to turn and set. Should it be metal? Yes that would be better. Overall that dial to me is minor overall.
u don't need a case. nothing will happen to it :)
No case may be it!
If you have a chance to open or service a M3, M4, M6, and MP (or even M2), you will go back to M3 or M4 unless you really want the handy meter in MP. Materialwise and craftmanshipwise, MP is just a mass-production quick assembled product that is no match with M3 or M4. Also, there is no weather seal at the rewind knob, shutter speed dial, film advance level and shutter release, the top is also loosely fitted (if you ever pull out the top of a M3 or M4 you can understand) and no way to accept that it is mechanically perfect and weatherproof and never try expose your MP to moisture confidently. If you look at a Nikon F2 or F3, you understand what is mechanically perfect even they are 50 years old. Just my experience with barnack and M cameras and all Leica lovers should have the right to know what they paid for.
And you speak from experience I take it ??
The MP is hand assembled one part at a time and is brass like the M3/M2/M4-xx/M-A.
My MP took over one year to build from the time I ordered it two years ago
I’ve opened and serviced many Leica cameras. MPs are no match for the M3, M2 and M4 in terms of build-quality. They’re well made; similar to the M4p M4-2 or M6 but the later cameras have much more mechanical slop.
@@michaelliu7404 just made up gibberish.. unless you speak from experience….??
Can't wait to get old and get MP🥲🥲🥲
You will have NO REGRETS!