What got me into Leica

The novelty of toy film camera was what got me started into photography. I clearly remember the first camera gifted to me was a Holga medium format camera. I later bought a Diana mini (JIYU Freedom). Browsing through Lomography’s website for my next camera, I stumbled onto the Kiev 4A rangefinder camera. It was interesting and it certainly got my attention. My fascination for rangefinder cameras began.

I started to research more on cameras, and specifically rangefinders. This eventually led me to the discovery of Leica. The company that created the legendary Leica M system. The design of their cameras was just so refined, simple and timeless. Sadly, as a student, the price of Leica cameras was way out of my reach and I could only admire their beauty from afar.

I later saved up enough money to purchase a Fujifilm X100. It looked like a rangefinder and while it tries to emulate the rangefinder with its optical viewfinder. Still, it wasn't a rangefinder like I wanted.

One day, I had the opportunity to play with the Leica M9. I picked it up and explored shooting with it. Needless to say, it was love at first encounter. It shoots pictures just like any other camera, but the experience of composing your shot through the viewfinder and watching the split image align to focus was on a much different level. It definitely wasn't easy to focus, but the camera really forces you to engage with it. To me, it was pure enjoyment.

In the meantime, I upgraded my Fujifilm X100 to the Fujifilm X-Pro 1 and later on, the X-Pro 2, both of which were much more affordable than a Leica.

My first Leica came much later when I started working. I got myself a Leica 50mm Summilux lens, which I adapted it for use with the Fujifilm cameras. But I still the experience not as satisfying as when I first tried the M9.

By sheer luck I struck gold: a Leica M7 in very mint condition at an amazing price of SGD2,100. Without any hesitation I took the deal. Till date, this amazing camera still resides with me and functions perfectly. I’ve never once regretted this purchase.

Leica SL2 with Leica Voigtlander Nokton 21mm f/1.4

Over time, as my love for the brand grew, so did my collection. With my very limited funds, most of the Leica gear I purchased were pre-owned. I also explored other M mount lens by other brands. I think this is a good way to start growing a Leica collection for beginners interested in investing in the brand.

To the utilitarian, buying a Leica would never make any logical sense. In terms of digital imaging technology, it definitely does not lead the pack in every aspect. I guess the only thing it really leads in is its prices.

Regardless, photography to me is more than just taking the picture itself. The process and experience are just as important. That's not to say Leica's quality is bad – it's amazing. So, if like me, you share the same philosophy, give Leica try for the same enjoyable experience. You won’t regret joining the movement.

Leica SL2 ; Marrying the Art and Science of Photography

Leica just recently announced the release of the SL2, their second iteration of the SL camera. While the published specifications closely mirrors that of the Panasonic S1R, the overall experience shooting with it was completely different. It is more than just a camera. It is a piece of art. So let us rewind and see what let Leica to the iteration of the SL.

When Leica first released the SL camera system back in 2015, I was not sold by it. The lens lineup was limited and Leica lens were your only options. While Leica undoubtedly produces the finest lens out there, the price tag isn’t very palatable to many, especially for hobbyists like myself. Furthermore, it seems to lack the Leica DNA that you would typically find from the M-system.

Fast forward three years to September 2018, Leica announced the L-mount alliance with Panasonic and Sigma. This strategic alliance meant both Panasonic and Sigma could adopt the L-mount and produce their own line of cameras using the L-mount. Consumers now had a wider range of options to choose from. There was a camera for everyone regardless of budget and needs.

In the SL2, they listened to users’ feedbacks. They worked on the flaws while retaining all the pros of the previous SL (Typ 601). These adjustments were minor yet enough to improve the overall user experience. Reminiscent to that of the changes made from the M240 to the M10. It made it Leica.

So what did Leica change from the previous SL?

Refined Aesthetics
When placed side by side, both SLs look almost identical. The original SL itself is already a piece of art with its flawless industrial design. Leica pushed the boundary by refining the edges to give the SL2 a sleeker look. While the footprint hasn’t changed much, the camera is now perceived to look smaller.

Improved Ergonomics
The shape of the hand grip has changed ever so slightly yet in the hands, it feels so much more comfortable. The new indent on the grip has also made it easier to grip the camera.

Intuitive Graphical UI
Leica has always made user interface that are very clean. The last thing you want is a UI that is difficult to navigate. Leica has improved the UI by making it more intuitive. Menus are all well-organised. Everything is at your fingertips without being too cluttered. Paired with the new touchscreen similar to that found on the Leica M10P, the SL2 has the most intuitive user interface I have ever used.

Improved Specs
Compared to the previous SL, here you’ll see a longer list of technical improvement.
1) Increased Sensor Resolution (47.3 Megapixel)
2) 5.5 Stops of IBIS
3) Improved EVF (5.76 Megapixel)
4) Larger Backlit Touchscreen LCD
5) Leica Maestro III Image Processor
6) Dual UHS-II SD Card Slot

In summary, Leica has improved on the Man-Machine user experience and added technical improvements that match that of the Panasonic S1R without increasing its footprint. However all these come with a price. The Leica SL2 retails at a hefty $9400 SGD. It is priced nearly twice that of the Panasonic S1R. Whether the huge price difference is worth it ultimately depends on individual. To me photography is more than just creating images. It is also about the experience of shooting. With that I bid my Panasonic farewell to welcome the Leica SL2.