ezc203 Posted December 5, 2009 Share #1 Posted December 5, 2009 Advertisement (gone after registration) Hi all, I am a happy owner of a beautiful M8, however recently I have been itching to get back onto film. Previously I have used Nikon/Canon SLRs, however I'm looking to buy a "cheap" Leica to fiddle around with. After some minimal result I realized that I would probably need to perfect my eye a bit more because I can get a camera without metering. So, let's view this forthcoming camera as a segway to eventually owning an MP (what a beast of a machine). Right now I'm looking at buying used, either a CL or a M4-P (or because something else??). Opinions? Suggestions? Words of wisdom? Anything will be well-received and appreciated. Thanks!! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Advertisement Posted December 5, 2009 Posted December 5, 2009 Hi ezc203, Take a look here Help out a newbie? [CL vs M4-P]. I'm sure you'll find what you were looking for!
thirdwheel Posted December 5, 2009 Share #2 Posted December 5, 2009 I would say go for a used M6. I have handled a CL in a shop, and felt that it was not easy to grip - too small and felt too much like a toy. My 2 cents. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Steve Ash Posted December 5, 2009 Share #3 Posted December 5, 2009 For sure I recommend to choose anything out of the M-system. Go for the M4-P. It will must likely not loose any value if you handle it with normal care and you can resell it if required or desired. But if you want to expand the camera system you have much more choices with the M system. What ever lens you will buy you can use it for any future M camera in case you grow up on it. You can expand the M system digitally if you like etc. Regards Steve Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
earleygallery Posted December 5, 2009 Share #4 Posted December 5, 2009 Hi, Any Leica M camera will suit your purpose but they do all have their differences and quirks. The M3 has a widest viewfinder of 50mm for example. The M2 is great with 35/50/90 frames, the M5 and later have built in metering.......an M6 or M7 will be most like your M8 in use. You could also consider one of the LTM or 'Barnack' Leica's such as a lllc or lllf. They are wonderful cameras, slower to use but then that's one of their advantages. You would need to buy one or two screw fit lenses but the good news is that you can use them on the M8 with an inexpensive adapter. There's no wrong answer to your question, its just a case of personal preference. You could also consider one of the Voigtlander bodies. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ezc203 Posted December 5, 2009 Author Share #5 Posted December 5, 2009 Thank you all for the comments. @thirdwheel - I completely agree with you on the size/feel of the CL. It feel small and "cheap" but I'm not entirely sure that will bug me as much, seeing as the M8 will still probably be my primary camera. And the CL will be a way to begin exploring the film medium. @Steve & James - I realized that I am limiting myself with only considering M systems. I am also looking into maybe the SLR system ® but cannot be sure. I suppose the best thing to do is head in to my local photo store and getting some quality hands on time All the best, Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
NZDavid Posted December 6, 2009 Share #6 Posted December 6, 2009 I'd recommend an M, any model. One advantage is the longer base rangefinder, which is useful with longer lenses. It also has a classic and timeless feel; there is a reason the basic shape hasn't changed in over 50 years! But whatever you decide, make sure it is in the best possible mechanical condition when you buy. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
roguewave Posted December 9, 2009 Share #7 Posted December 9, 2009 Advertisement (gone after registration) Eddie, I have an M2, M3 and a CL. The CL is a wonderful camera with an excellent meter, If you are shooting in NYC, it is even better. I can fit in my jacket and am able to shoot with it in the subwaysm ususally without being seen. My hand covers the whole camera. The 2 lenses it has frame lines are both superb, 40 cron & 90 Elmarit. I bought one for my son about 18 months ago & he loves it. You can use lots of wide angle lenses, I use the CV15 & my Summilux 35. It stands up very well, it's small form factor is a big plus, especially as a 2nd camera. After all the lens does 90% of the work. The body is just a light box. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ezc203 Posted December 10, 2009 Author Share #8 Posted December 10, 2009 Ben, Thanks for your input, but I went for a M4-P. The kind gentleman at Photovillage NYC made me an offer I couldn't refuse ($450, tax incl.). And I love the fact that it does not have a light meter, I feel like its helping me grow as a photographer and I really enjoy the challenge. Will I buy a CL in the future? Maybe, your argument is very persuasive. Thank you again. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
NZDavid Posted December 14, 2009 Share #9 Posted December 14, 2009 Eddie, that's a brilliant deal and Photovillage comes highly recommended for Leica buyers. The Sekonic 308b is an excellent meter, btw -- fast, accurate, and compact. Have fun with your new M and be sure to post some results! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ezc203 Posted December 14, 2009 Author Share #10 Posted December 14, 2009 Thank you david, photos are up, under the thread "Roll 1" in the People forum. Check them out if you have the time! Season's Greetings to all. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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