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Hello, I’m close to buying a new Leica. Trying hard to make the right decision. All options remain on the table, but I’m leaning towards a SL2-S or SL3. I made the decision to go Leica about a year ago. At the time, I was excited. I thought it’d be easy. Little did I know. The good thing is: it’s been a year. I’ve used that time wisely, I hope, to consider a lot (reading posts, watching videos, and trying out different cameras). I’m almost there. But before I pull the trigger again (more about that in a moment), I’d love to get some input, so if you have any thoughts to share … I’m all ears! A little about me: I’ve got a good amount of life experience and been a photographer for many years. Over the past decades I’ve shot Nikon film cameras & different mirrorless cameras including Fuji, Sony and Ricoh. I enjoy shooting landscapes, city buildings and some street in the endless pursuit of creating photographic art. I have a passion for B&W. So much so that after nearly a year, I made the decision to purchase a “like new” Q2 Monochrom. Unfortunately, it had debris in the viewfinder that I found distracting so I returned it. The experience was a good one because it caused me think even deeper about my commitment level and what I really want. They say the Leica Q’s are the “gateway drug” in the Leica world and I now see why. Yeah, even after a very short time with one. I’m someone that would be very happy with a Monochrom only camera. I shoot 90% B&W (at least), and the ability shoot at night with very high ISO’s with a camera that doesn’t have a bayer filter, and noise that looks more filmic is a very attractive proposition. If I missed color, I could always carry my trust Ricoh GRIII I Ruled Out a Leica Q I’ve ruled out another Q camera for several reasons, with the biggest being that I’ve got some wonderful vintage lenses and want to use them on a Leica (rather than continue using them on my Sony I think). Maybe a M11 or M10 Monochrom? I thought an M11 monochrome … or maybe an M10? … was the answer but I’m not sure a rangefinder’s for me. I mean I LOVE the look. Truly. It’s … beautiful. But I love shooting fast lenses. The rangefinder focusing … nice … but when it comes to focusing some lenses like a f/0.95 or even f/1.2 on a rangefinder … I want an EVF for critical focus. Sure, there’s a great external EVF for the M11 … and I’d be fine with buying that if I needed to, but in my opinion, it kinda messes with the whole rangefinder aesthetic to have to put that on the hot shoe. Also, I’ve heard more than one person talk about their rangefinder’s going out of alignment - and needing to be sent back in for recalibration. I’ve also read about freezing issues some have said they’d experienced with their Leica M11’s on this forum. On top of that, I like to focus CLOSE sometimes (not macro but down to 3/4 or 1/2 a meter) with my vintage lenses … I’ve can do that with an adapter on my Sony A7RIVa with vintage m mount lenses that normally wouldn’t be able to focus that close but would not be able to do that when using them on a Leica M. That frankly is a big deal (for me). Leica SL-2S or SL3? So that’s led me to consider a Leica SL-2s or maybe a SL3? Pros: Ability to convert M lenses and focus close using M to CL adapters. Check Built-in beautiful EVF. Check. More affordable than a Leica M11 Monochrom - check No calibration needed. Cons: No monochrome sensor in sight. Sigh. It’s so … BIG!! The M11 looks so much more inviting. Big Red Dot & Big Leica in big white letters … sheesh! I so prefer the look of the monochrom cameras. Discreet. So tape it up and cover up the dot I guess is the solution there. Perhaps not the best for street? More suited for studio than street? In conclusion: At the end of the day - is a Leica SL2s and/or SL3 worth spending thousands of dollars more - or should I just stick with my 60 megapixel Sony A7R-IVa and call it a day? Has anyone upgraded from the SL2-s to the SL3 .. .and if so, was it worth it? And why? Has anyone owned both a Leica M10/M11 along with a Leica SL series camera and if so, which do you prefer and why? Anyone move from a Leica Monochrome camera to the SL line ? Any regrets? Thoughts and/or Recommendation would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Hey, 👋 I would love the SL lenses with an aperture wheel on the lens. This would make the working in manual mode so much easier. As you would use the left hand for the aperture and the right hand for exposure and exposure compensation. Anybody on this boattrip? I am using different lenses from all kind of manufacturers on my SL camera. And every time I put an autofocus lens with aperture in the front of the lens on my body, I am thinking : why are there only M lenses from Leica that can do this? I would prefer to have this dial on the lens. Do you ? cheers 🥂

The newly released Sigma 14mm f1.8 Art lens is discussed in several threads, but it might be convenient to gather info in one dedicated thread. The lens is available in Nikon and Canon mounts. As a guidance to new/potential buyers, here are some findings after playing with three copies of the lens, all in Nikon mounts. The testing has been tailored for night/star/northern light/etc. photography, i.e., with the deep sky as a major component of the image. In the following I only discuss sharpness across the image when the lenses are set wide open (f1.8) and at near infinity. Other optical qualities are, of course, of importance as well (aberration, astigmatism, coma, etc.), as well as other shooting conditions. As mentioned, three copies of the Sigma lens have been tested, all in Nikon mount, but I guess the results are transferable to Canon mounts as well. The tests are done with Nikon D5 and Leica SL, the latter with two Novoflex Nikon-to-Leica adapters (one manual and one electronic): (0) Yes, even infinity needs accurate focusing! Therefore, forget the infinity marking on the lens (as on most lenses). (1) Set the lens to manual focus; it appears that the focusing is less reliable when the lens is set to auto focus (despite auto focus is not activated by any camera buttons). Don't ask why and I can not prove it, this is a suspicion I have based on the testing. (2) Live view on Nikon D5, at full zoom, is only marginally able to guide correct infinity focus. Using a loupe on the back screen is recommended, possibly needed. (3) Live view on Leica SL, at 10x magnification, is much more accurate than the Nikon live view (nothing new here) and can be trusted regarding infinity focus. Thumbs up for the SL! (4) In my case, the manual Novoflex adapter gives even focus throughout most of the image. This is not the case for the electronic adapter; when the center of the image is in focus, the edges smear, and vice versa. So there are differences in the mount precision. This does not imply/prove that manual Novoflex adapters are more accurate than the electronic one, rather that differences between adapters can be expected. So for accurate infinity focus with non-SL lenses, testing of several adapters might be required (actually, I have two manual Novoflex adapters, with one being a `keeper', the other less so). So adapters can be tricky. (5) Irrespective of the FF body used (Nikon D5 or Leica SL), copies of the Sigma 14mm f1.8 ART at f1.8 show differences regarding edge/corner sharpness when the central part of the image is in focus. Vice versa, when the focus point is set near(er) to the corners, the central part of the image may turn soft. So some copies of the lens do not stand the task. Actually, the excellent SL EVF can be used to judge the lens sharpness across most of the image. Set the focus somewhere in the frame, and 'walk' around in the EVF to check the focus throughout the frame (note that we are talking about focus near infinity). (6) Of the three lenses tested on D5 and SL, the latter with the manual Novoflex adapter, one copy is fine - being sharp across the image with only weak softness in the outmost corners. The lens is sharper than the Nikon 14-25 f2.8G zoom, a highly regarded lens (despite the Sigma is shot at f1.8). One copy is perhaps acceptable, the third copy fails wrt edge/corner sharpness. (7) For all three copies of the lens, optimal sharpness across the image appears to be obtained when the focus is put about 1/3 off the centre of the image. (8) I find accurate, manual focussing somewhat tricky with the lens; very small rotation of the focus ring moves the focus point too far/quickly, so I would prefer a longer focus throw length (but I guess this might influence the lens' autofocus). In conclusion, the new Sigma can be fine, even used wide open at f1.8, but testing is needed... Used on the SL, testing of adapters are also needed... Images will follow after some shooting.

Here's a bit of reading of the tea leaves from Mike Evans at Macfilos. He covers his thoughts and predictions on the SL, Q and the possibility of an M with EVF as well as the M system. Leica in 2024 and 2025: What’s next from Wetzlar https://www.macfilos.com/2024/02/05/leica-in-2024-and-2025-whats-next-from-wetzlar/

Just got an email from Leica Australia that there's a firmware update for the Leica SL (typ 601). Version 4.1 Unfortunately, the link to download the firmware in the email is 404 broken, but a bit of web-search magic and found it on the Leica US downloads page: Downloads | Leica Camera US (leica-camera.com) Seems to be mainly focused on SL series lens firmware updates. Caveat – haven't installed it yet.

Hi folks, I currently have SL 601 and I've recently bought SL2, which I'm going to sell soon, so I though to put some info why I'm choosing to stay with 601. It might be helpful for some. First, things I like about SL2 in comparison to SL 601: 1. Better viewfinder, OLED, more contrasty and Sharper (although not by much) 2. Better LCD, noticeably sharper than 601 as it has more pixels 3. USB charging, no need to take additional charger for travel. 4. Ability to use AF lens adapters (on 601 Novoflex is pretty much the only choice and it doesn't really work) 5. Enhanced live view giving a nice boost at very low light situations 6. Eye AF is very nice Now what things made me keep my SL for longer: 1. Although viewfinder is higher res, difference is not huge and if you switch to 120fps it drops resolution to something unusable when half pressed. Viewfinder also has lower magnification. 2. AF is faster, but not significantly better than on my 601 with leica lenses (24-90 and 75/2). I've tested it in different conditions and I was suprised that even in low light 601 didn't perform significantly worse than SL2 3. Rear buttons on a left hand side, which mean to view them you can't really press play with right hand 4. Design changes are questionable. They rounded some corners near the shutter button, which looks weird. Also LCD screen with buttons now extended from the body. Strap lugs are external. 5. Menu looks more complicated now 6. Fotos app still slow, useable as a remote, but that's the same as with 601 7. no GPS, you need to keep phone with BT enabled for geotagging. This is not a problem by itself, however if camera is used by more than one person it is not great 8. Camera is more rubberised, which might be good, however it feels less solid for some reason. I never had an issue with SL 601 ergonomics. My plan was to get rid of SL 601, Sony A7RII+200-600mm and get SL2 + bigma150-600mm instead, but now I think I'll just get another 601 + 150-600mm

I am looking for a camera bag to fit the sl with the Vario 24-90 attached and an extra lens like a 50mm sl apo. Feel free to post pictures of your bag and share the name. Thanks in advance.

"Live aus dem Leitz-Park Live-Stream zu SL-Objektiven Entdecken Sie in diesem Live-Stream die Vielfalt der Leica SL-Objektive und lernen Sie die neuen Familienmitglieder - zwei Superweitwinkelobjektive - kennen. Marcus Klimek und Olaf Wolf stellen Ihnen die Anwendungs- und Einsatzbereiche aus der Praxis vor. Noch bis zum 31. Januar können Sie beim Kauf von einem SL2-Kit 1.400 Euro sparen." „Live aus dem Leitz-Park“ | Mittwoch, 22. November, 19 Uhr | YouTube

Question for SL users: I have the opportunity to trade my Panasonic S1 (that I se with SL glass) for a Leica SL. Of course I will spend some cash out of pocket. I wanted to find out if anyone has experience with a similar shift and what factors I must keep in mind in going from an S1 to a relatively older (technology wise) camera body. Also I mostly use this for shooting in a studio. Pic (shot on the s1) for attention. Greatly appreciate your thoughts. Thank you.

Still shooting an SL 601, had it since it came out. Shoot with the 24-90 but much prefer the lighter package of SL with Zeiss ZM lenses. I just put an old Nikon F mount 28-70D lens on the SL and it is a lovely light weight combo! Manual focus of course but that’s fine, rendering is nice if total sharpness is not up to modern lens standard. But it is a slow lens so looking for recommendations of lightweight zoom, in the 28-70 range, with a decent max aperture, that can be adapted to the SL. Any suggestions pls? Thanks.

https://vimeo.com/208254533 A short video clip I made on SL with Summarit 35/2.4 in L-log and graded in FCP X as Arri Log C footage. Wanted to finally see what can be done with those L-log files. Not bad results, looks really promising. Anyone here has any experience with making films on SL? How do you capture the footage, how do you colour grade later? What LUT do you use? I've looked at buying some extra LUT loaders and use some custom LUTs but decided that it's not really needed. I can work with what's in the Apple Final Cut Pro X quite effectively it seems. How about you?

Read all I can on here but still in need of some advice pls. Am still using original 601 and need a simple and low cost flash solution for very occasional use (family events etc). I have a Nikon SB25 speedlight from my film days so could use that - but think it would need an optical trigger etc. I don’t know much about flash TBH. Recommendations pls for a safe and simple set-up? Thank you.

Die kursierenden Roadmaps sind ja mittlerweile in die Jahre gekommen und noch immer sind nicht alle Objektive auf dem Markt wie das 24er und 21er SL Objektiv. Gibt es ansonsten neue Gerüchte zu SL Objektiven? Eine neue SL wird ja wohl 2023 auf den Markt kommen, Panasonic bringt ja auch was Neues raus. Eine SL-3?

Hi all, I've noticed that the on-camera profiles for R lenses, automatically applied in Lightroom after importing DNGs if the correct lens was selected in the camera menu, often overcorrect vignetting at mid-apertures (f/5.6 to 11), resulting, in slightly brighter far corners. I had to set some vignetting in Effects menu to compensate for this, or even better turn off the on-camera profile before the shot (but then I have no EXIFs, of course, nor other corrections for distortion and/or chromatic aberration). Has someone else noticed that? I'm running v3.0 firmware. Thanks

Is early days I realise, but I wonder if we could please have a thread devoted to third party lens performance on the SL please. In my case I would be interested in experiences with Zeiss F mount lenses (ZF/.2), particularly the 1.4/55 Otus, 1.4/85 Otus, and 2/135 Apo-Sonnar. But I also have a couple of C/Y lenses. I'm sure there are others here interested, as well as those with Canon and Nikkor glass. If I end up with and SL I will report first hand, but I haven't decided to pull the trigger yet (I had wished for higher resolution and IBIS), but there is a lot in this camera that appeals, including it looking like a good tool for some R glass I have. So, anyone with an SL and experience with third party lenses, please share your experiences. Thanks in advance.

Owners of the Vario 24-90mm, be honest: in what proportion do you use a SL Apo lens in addition to the Vario? I ask this question because I hesitate a lot to buy a fixed focal length without probably a Sl Apo 50mm, so much the Vario 24-90mm is an exceptional lens. What is your opinion ?

In the last few weeks I've noticed an increase of fuzzy shots coming from my SL. I was mostly using M lenses adapted using the Leica M-L initially, shutter speeds were kept more than high enough. Focus was acheived using the peaking/zoom, which I've always had as a successful technique. So I thought initially it was me not paying attention to my camera skills etc. Then today, I was using a Panasonic 20-60mm and I changed the focus point to the single cross-hair and ensured I took at least two of every scene, and mostly this worked, with me taking the first shot then recomposing the focus point to get the second shot. There were still a few occasions where the fuzzy look was still present. I'm not sure what has changed or why the issues all of a sudden. The attached images show the fuzzy look (orange car - with M lens) and the hotrod with the Panasonic 20-60 - 100% zooms provided. I did a search and couldnt find any related issues, hence this post

Erfahrung und Meinung gefragt zu meiner Ausrüstung Hallo, mein Name ist Chris, habe mich an anderer Stelle bereits vorgestellt. Zu Leica gekommen bin ich über die Leica Q, vorher hatte ich eine Fuji und davor eine Canon-Ausrüstung. Mittlerweile hat sich hier folgende Ausrüstung angesammelt, die ich nun gerne auf das Nötigste zusammen streichen möchte. Da ich mich überhaupt nicht entscheiden kann, suche ich neue Impulse. Was fotografiere ich? - Natur, auch mal Makro (mit Q2 oder M-Zwischenring), Menschen, auch mal Street, Reise, Hunde, Autos, auch mal Portrait-Serien, Familien-Portraits. Selten Stativ aber gerne low light, nie Blitz Kameras in der Reihenfolge der häufigsten Verwendung: - SL mit M auf L-Adapter - M9 Monochrom (behalte ich auf jeden Fall, M10 brauche ich nicht, hatte ich bis vor Kurzem) - Q2 Objektive in der Reihenfolge der häufigsten Verwendung: - 50 mm Summilux Version I, 1966 - 35 mm Summilux Version I, 1967 (Verwendung an der SL eingeschränkt... verstärkte Vignettierung) - 21 mm Voigtländer F1,4 - 50 mm Summicron, 2000 - 35 mm asph. Summicron 2002 - 90 mm Elmarit F2,8 (gerne gezielt bei Portrait) Welche Begehrlichkeiten gibt es? - SL2-S aber brauchen tue ich die nicht zwingend. Glaube nicht, das ich damit bessere Bilder mache. Es reizt gegenüber der SL der IBIS und das noch bessere Rauschverhalten sowie das viiiiel bessere Fokus-Peaking.... Da ich die Sl für 1500,- Euro gekauft habe, würde ich seeehr viel für diese Reize zahlen. Hat jemand spontan einen Impuls, Ideen, die mit weniger Objektiven. Eine Überlegung war schon mal auf neuere Summiluxe umzustellen und dafür aller 35er und 50 er zu veräußern. Sind die neueren Summiluxe bei F2 oder F2,8 so scharf wie die Summicrone? Die älteren sind das erst bei F4 und dass ist mir dann schon zu wenig Licht und/oder Freistellung. Danke für Eure Impulse ich bin gespannt. Viele Grüße Chris

I recently was thrown off when shooting a location portrait with the sun behind my subject. The flare in the SL viewfinder made critical focusing or even viewing impossible. Shooting into the sun with its rim light effect on the hair is one of my go-to tricks in bright sunlight. It’s never been an issue with DSLRs. I’m thinking that because light is directly hitting the sensor in a mirrorless camera, this is an insurmountable problem. Has anyone experienced this?

I’m using my SL with a 90mm lens and a studio strobe setup to photograph some still life’s. As I need a f16 aperture I cannot see through the view finder as its so dark. Is there a setting for a bright view finder that will then stop down as the strobe is fired? Cheers Stephen

Running backwards, Drive on continuous medium, Shutter speed priority. 24/90 at 24. Some frames show vignetting, others don't. Thoughts?

I currently have an MP (240) and a 35 summilux. I was at the leica store today and the employee mentioned when I decide to upgrade my camera I should look at the M10 or SL. He then said the SL was probably best because of cost and proceeded to show me a sample of the SL with 35 lux (with adapter) The focusing was great to me but did feel bulky. My question is - If I'm really just going to use it with my M lens does it make sense to go SL route? I know it would be alot cheaper; but not sure on performance difference etc. Apologies if this was asked previously in another post and thank you for any response.

For Using Leica's Historical line of Manual Focus Leica-M Lenses are the Leica SL, SL2, AND Nikon Z6, Z7, Bodies Essentially Equivalents? Same Ease Of Use? Same Easy focusing? Ease of Carry?

I never thought I'd be asking this question, but when I look back at the use I've been getting out of my kit over the last 6 months, it feels like one I need to address. I now have SL2 + 24-90 / 90-280 + Sigma 45 + Voigtlander 15 v3. This feels like a remarkably competent system for the kind of work that I can do during the pandemic. No theatre, no concerts, no international documentart commissions ☹️ I also have to M10 bodies + Summicron 28 asph / 35 asph / Summilux 50 / Summarit 70 / Macro-Elmar 90 and Apo-Telyt 135. If you'd asked me a year ago, I'd have said that if I only had one system, it would be the M. A bit of me still feels that way. I love the images, the size and weight, the discreetness. But when I consider what I'm using, I find that the SL2 + 24-90 is the one that comes out in the wind and rain. I love the range of focal lengths it offers, I love the IQ. OK - I'm not happy with battery life, and I'd be happier with a couple of interface changes (especially Exposure Lock assignable to a button rather than only to the joystick), but these aren't deal breakers. Is a life without an M camera in it imaginable? For the better part of 30 years, it wouldn't have been. Now, I'm not so sure... Anyone else with these thoughts? Has anyone converted completely? How does it feel?