D-Lux 3 Questions....

[seabreeze]

I would like some advice from Leica fans, I have a Sony DSC-R1 camera, for those of you who don't know, it's a 10.3 Megapixel Cybershot. I bought it about 1 year ago, just when it first came out. Loved it when I first held it and used it, the lens went from a 24mm to 135mm. I always wanted a digital that would be a decent wide angle. Anyway, I used it for a while, but not as much as my nikon coolpix 5 megapixel, which was so easy to carry around. Now I have decided that if I am going to use a camera it has to be very compact!!!! Otherwise I know I wont be using it! A friend has told me to get the D-Lux 3.
I have the following questions, what is the flash like? and I have heard that they are bringing out a new version of it at the end of this year. Have any of you heard the same rumor? because I can wait till the end of the year. Also I have not tried one, is it small, like
the coolpix and canon elphs? Is it a problem not having a viewfinder and always having to compose on the LCD Screen? The 16-9 format, does that mean, that it takes thin long landscapes? And then there is the V-lux, is that a lot bigger? It looks smaller than my Sony..... Thanks for any advice.....

[Paul Gruyters]

I have posted on the other thread already. I didn't know you wanted something so small. The V Lux 1 is not a pocket camera. Actually the C Lux 2 might be worth a look.

Regs,
PJG.

[seabreeze]

Thanks Paul, I read your other post. After reading this forum, I asked my question differently, as I wasn't sure which Digitall Leica to get. I have not felt either, and have no idea how big or small the D-Lux is or what the feel and the size of the other 2 leica's is. I need to try them out and see what they feel like....... Thanks

[sdommin]

The D-Lux 3 is definitely small, sometimes I think its too small! If you have moderately large hands, you'll have to get used to the small buttons and switches. But you can get used to them, and overall, the D-Lux 3 is a great camera. If you want to get an idea of its size (and can't find a demo model), go to any camera store and hold one of Canon's "SD" series cameras. They're about the same size and you'll get a good idea of how to handle one (don't fall in love with the "SD" cameras, though. Their lenses aren't as good as the Leica's, and there's no RAW.).

By the way, I also have a Sony R1(best camera ever!), but my lens only goes from 24mm to 120mm. Maybe you got the Mark II version!

[Iron Flatline]

Yes, about the size of an Elph, a little longer, but thinner.

The 16:9 format is an option, but you can select a smaller format. It has an easy to reach dedicated switch that I use a lot - I don't like having portrait shots in 16:9 - it' too long for my taste.

The lens does not retract fully like a C-Lux, so you'll need to stick the lens cap in your pocket.

It has a lot of great manual controls, including Aperture and Shutter priority modes - and full Manual mode. It shoots RAW, which I prefer.

I wish it had a Viewfinder, but I've learned to live without. At least my wife picks it up occasionally and takes some pictures with it in Program mode... and has stopped trying to use my M8. Phew.

[seabreeze]

sdommin, Thanks for your advice, I do have really small hands, and thats my problem with big cameras. The Sony R1, I looked at it again, and it say's 120 Equiv 135.....Sorry I wrote down the 135 measurement. I didn't know there was a MkII, so mine has to be the same as yours. I really liked the camera when I bought it, but I am not using it enough, that's why I am looking for a small camera.... I want to ask, the fact that the lens does not retract on the D-Lux 3, is that a problem? Also everyone seems to be shooting in RAW, can it still shoot jpegs? I also think I will like the 16:9 format, does anyone have any examples they can post of what a 16:9 image looks like? I live in NY and will go to B&H photo and check them out before buying.... Will let you know on this thread what and why I went with one over the other.... Do you really think the R1 is the best camera ever? Thanks for everyones help........This is a great forum and I am sure once I have the camera I will be seeking quite a bit of help and advice........

[dugby]

There are a lot of image samples on pbasedotcom.

You may not know it, that the D-Lux2 (the model prior to D-Lux3), is considered to produce better image quality in low exposure areas of the shot.

This is also demonstrated by samples on pbase, taken with the LX1 and LX2, the Panasonic donor DNA to the D-lux's.

For this very reason I specifically hunted down a D-Lux2 and paid a price similar to a D-Lux3.

I have 4x Leica digicams, D1, D2, DL2 and L1 and can say that the DL2 in isolation takes darn good shots when the circumstances are right, but I've relinquished it to my teen-daughter....who uses it more than me.

[sdommin]

I want to ask, the fact that the lens does not retract on the D-Lux 3, is that a problem?

Not really, the lens retracts, but not all the way (not flush with the body when retracted). The camera not including the lens is about 25mm thick. The lens when retracted adds another 20mm (with the cap). It comes with a small strap to put on the cap to keep from losing it.

Also everyone seems to be shooting in RAW, can it still shoot jpegs?

Definitely. You have a choice of 2 compression factors. The JPGs are pretty good - most people shoot RAW with the camera because RAW is rare on a camera of this size and type.

I also think I will like the 16:9 format, does anyone have any examples they can post of what a 16:9 image looks like?

See below.

Do you really think the R1 is the best camera ever?

Just my personal opinion. The R1 is very popular with those who own and use it. Others just don't understand. In that way its very much like a Leica!

I really like the 16:9 format and the 28mm lens. Very rare for a small "take along" camera like the D-Lux 3. Here's an example of the 16:9 format -

[Maggie_O]

Originally Posted by seabreeze

sdommin, Also everyone seems to be shooting in RAW, can it still shoot jpegs? I also think I will like the 16:9 format, does anyone have any examples they can post of what a 16:9 image looks like?

I shoot in RAW and in JPEG and the JPEGs look fantastic, IMO. I like how the Leica renders colors and with the NR set to low and shooting at ISO 400 and below, the files are gorgeous.

Here's a few of my fave 16:9 shots, there's lots more at my Flickr site:

[Half-Handed]

Lovely pictures!

Any recommendations about where to buy the D-Lux 3 in the UK? Robert White don't have them at all, Ffordes don't have any cases. Anyone got any other reputable dealers?

[stunsworth]

Wilkinson in Preston? - they have 1 in stock...

Wilkinson Cameras / Cameras / Digital Compact Cameras / Leica / LEICA DIGITAL D-LUX 3

[mrtaber]

Thanks to all who have participated in this thread. I'm a fairly new photographer (although a long-time graphics artist). I have a nice Nikon D200, but sometimes, just don't want to lug all that around, but still want the opportunity to avail myself of the photographic serendipities that may present themselves.

I shoot RAW (I'm all about the RAW), and use Aperture for my processing (I note that Aperture supports the D-LUX). I think I've found my tag-along camera. Now, the big question: what color?

Thanks,
Mark Taber

[Maggie_O]

What color? Well, I ordered a black one, but got sent a silver one and I've got to say that the silver has really grown on me- it looks old-school Leica to my eyes now:

[Half-Handed]

I fancy a black one... sounds like Wilkinsons is a goer. It's a shame though because Robert White bundles a 1Gig card with it which is good value. Still, it's not like memory cards cost that much, is it?

[mrtaber]

Great pictures (of the camera, and on Flickr), Maggie! Yeah...that silver is very handsome. Hmmm. Choices, choices. I understand that the leather cases are almost impossible to find...

Mark

[Half-Handed]

It comes with the case in the UK - where are you based?

[mrtaber]

I'm in the US...and the cases cost $85, if/when you can find them.

Mark

[Maggie_O]

Originally Posted by mrtaber

Great pictures (of the camera, and on Flickr), Maggie! Yeah...that silver is very handsome. Hmmm. Choices, choices. I understand that the leather cases are almost impossible to find...

Mark

Thank you, Mark!

It looks like PopFlash has the leather cases.

[XD7]

PopFlash.Photo are showing the brown leather cases in stock for $89 plus shipping.

[mrtaber]

OK, call me crazy, but the cordoura case doesn't look as classy, but looks a little more practical (at least room for a memory card) than the leather one does; however, I'm seriously considering a camera case from Waterfield bags--great style, and I have bags and cases from them for other gear; they've proven to be virtually indestructible. It doesn't have the "Red Dot" or the logo, but if I get a black D-LUX 3, I might go for the little red and black checkered model; if I get the silver one, I'd go for the silver and black checkered one. Hmmm.

Thanks, all

Mark