Which lenses to buy for the M9?

[gib_robinson]

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Well, Henrik, there are predictably as many suggestions as there are photographers posting :-). We are a passionate group and very generous with our opinions.

 

On the other hand, you did not say what sort of subjects you want to photograph, so you left us lots of room to go where we want with lens suggestions -- short, long, fast, slow, new, old.

 

Because there are a wilderness of options, If I were you I think I'd look for some ways to try out lenses perhaps from an obliging Leica shop or from a few local users. There simply is no substitute for seeing the results from a lens and figuring out what YOU like in the way of optical qualities. As you've heard, older lenses have a softness and warmth that can go well with the M9 but maybe you will find yourself drawn to the edge-to-edge precise, more contrasty new lenses. I tend in that direction, which means I stick to Leica or Zeiss, rather than Voigtlander for example.

 

The other thing I would do (I hope) is some research. Sean Reid's articles are very valuable, although he offers so much information it can be overwhelming.

 

With respect to focal lengths, when I started shooting Leica M's, I had two lenses, a Leica 35mm and a Leica 50mm. Whether new or old, 'lux or Elmarit, those focal lengths are pretty safe starting points.

 

It takes time to develop the kind of firm, opinionated view points we often display on this site. If you enjoy the camera and just get a couple of lenses to start with, you really can't go far wrong. Pretty soon you'll find yourself passionately defending your choices like the rest of us.

 

--Gib