4 Weeks, 2000+ photos and Lots of Controversy

[seattlesteve]

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I waited for a few weeks before putting together my thoughts on the X1. I sat around this afternoon, puts some words down on paper, inserted a few photos and came up with a short write-up on my impressions with the X1.

 

You can find the write up here: Leica X1: 4 Weeks, 2000+ Photos and Lots of Controversy

 

It will be desperately clear by the end of the essay that I'm not a professional writer and dearly need an editor. Any volunteers? The intent of this was to describe the personal interaction I've had with the camera the last few weeks. Thanks for reading.

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[jmteno76]

Excellent write up -

 

There is something about the freedom of these non-dslr cameras that allow a different way of seeing and creativity. I find myself taking pictures that I would not take with a DSLR camera. I am still waiting for my X1, but here is example with Cannon S90. There is no way that I could have captured that angle with my Nikon D700. I could not see the picture on the monitor, but took my best guess.

 

Thanks for the great review of the X1

 

Joan

 

[SJP]

Mmmmm.... now I am depressed, I had decided that I did not "like" the X1 files compared to the M8 but these pictures are really nice. So now my bank account is an endangered species.

[nippa]

Great review Steve.

I could have written every word.

[wda]

Steve, thank you for a well-written honest account of your time with the X1. It is also revealing about your past preferences for cameras, leading up to your purchase of the X1. Your pictures also reveal that you are no novice photographer, particularly with 'walk-about' street photography. Your clearly did your home-work before buying the X1 and knew, more or less, what to expect. There were no lurking surprises for you. How I wish more of the detractors would do that. Good luck with the next 2,000 exposures and beyond.

[peterb]

Okay, I'm finally sold. JNow...where are they in the U.S.?

[seattlesteve]

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@Joan - Thank you for your comments. I completely agree with you that sometimes I had a hard time using my DSLR at odd angles. That's one thing I miss about about GH1, it's flip out screen.

 

@Stephen - Sorry about the bank account becoming endangered. I know the feeling, I'm working on getting an M8.

 

@Nippa - Thanks, glad to know we're on the same page.

 

@David - I appreciated your thoughtful comments. There's no deniying that the X1 does have it's flaws, but even with those flaws it is a highly capable camera.

 

@Peter - If you end up getting the X1 you won't regret it one bit. The vast majority of detractors seem to be non-owners, that wanted more out of the camera for less $$. But honestly, who wouldn't want more for less $$? I guess it's up to each individual to decide if the X1 is worthy the price.

[diogenis]

The camera is great and it's got huge enough of potential.

There were some rumors and a bad start in terms of AF speed and response in general, but we were comparing it to the M8. Leica has a winner here, they should fix a bit that LCD so it can be seen under the sun, as it's its main window of control (viewfinders are extras)

[jsrockit]

I love my digital barnack! Seriously, shortcomings aside, I am happy I purchased this camera and can use it for 99% of my photography.

[Krauthead]

Very good report, Steve. I think what you wrote is accurate for X1 users and I notice many of the same strong points of the camera. I note too the minor problems with the camera which, for me, have not marred the enjoyment and incredible pictures I am getting from it.

 

Good Work with your review.