MD Grip for M9?

[markpsf]

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As some of you may know from my other thread, I'm trying to compensate effectively for a slight hand tremor when using the M9. Fortunately I don't plan to use long lenses with it, but even a 50mm lens can pose a problem when shooting at slower speeds. I do know the varied settings that help and certainly the fast lenses are a big help.

 

Beyond that, I do use the Thumbs Up and will experiment with a small tripod used as a chest brace of sorts, as recommended by others with a similar problem.

 

But a few people have also recommended using a handgrip. I'm debating about that, only because I don't want to do overkill on this...tripod, grip, Thumbs Up. The only thing missing is a large fullbody sash and the camera itself will seem to be an accessory!

 

But seriously, what's your hit on the grip?

And do any of you use the MD grip? It looks great and is about half the price of the Leica.

 

Thanks.

 

Mark

[stunsworth]

Mark, I use a Leica grip on my M8 and wouldn't be without it. It also makes carrying the camera on a wrist strap much easier. I've never bothered with a Thumbs Up, so can't comment on how a combination of the two works.

[thetoness]

I use a thumbs up and a grip that is part of my Luigi case. Both accessories add good balance to the camera. I think trying a grip with a thumbs up might help you immensely.

Cary

[viramati]

I use a thumbs up and the leica grip together. I find that it totally transforms the handling of the camera.

[Fotomiguel]

Are you left or right eye shooter?

[markpsf]

Are you left or right eye shooter?

 

 

Right eye.

[artspraken]

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Instead of the MD-grip, its more worthwhile getting a Luigi half case (built in grip) for the added protection. All luigi cases are custom-made and you can ask for bigger grip if you want.

 

I personally do not use a grip as I find that the leather half case already gives me a very secure hold on the camera.

 

With due attribution to Luigi, I link his case here to give you an idea of the built in grip:

his website is at Leicatime Luigi Crescenzi : leica cameras leica compur mp elmar 250 reporter leicavit

 

there was one in the buy/sell classifieds but it appears to be sold

http://www.l-camera-forum.com/leica-forum/market/listing/1893/Luigi_M9__M8_Case_and_Deluxe_Strap__SOLD.html

 

[gwelland]

I use the MD-Grip instead of the Leica grip. It is significantly more rigid and has a more complete grip for the fingers. The main advantage I find is the base plate will not flex at all if you have the camera on a tripod - the Leica base plate by comparison will flex. This gives me peace of mind that it won't also break off like the original bases have been known to do.

 

The MD Grip is superbly made and is what Leica should have produced. It's a little heavier but not wastefully so. The Leica base feels and looks like it was stamped out. The MD Grip is machined from a solid blank of aluminum.

 

For walkaround use I use the Luigi grip/Thumbs Up cut out half case. It works very well.

[Fotomiguel]

Right eye.

The Leica RF is the best camera not to shake. With this camera you may use your head and in your case, your nose to make the camera very steady. With another cameras you depend just on your hands but the leica RF has a special ergonomic position to press smoothly with your right hand the camera to your nose. You have to do it just in the moment of the shot, otherwise you'll get tired. You have to train a lot. That's the secret of this camera. I have a bit of shaky hands too. One good trick that works for me is to use the bone of the finger to press the shutter button. This makes the finger more rigid and stretched and shake less.

Before you quit, I would try to train a bit every day and find your own limits. After some weeks you'll improve and you'll know which are your limits with different lights, ISO and exposures.

Very important to practice focusing too!!!!!!

I'm using the leica grip. I can't live without it.

Regards

Miguel

[stunsworth]

Are you left or right eye shooter?

 

Left eye - and have used a grip for 10 years or so with M cameras if that helps.

[Baptiste]

use thumbs up + Luigi's half case: great combo to hold the M9!

[vanhulsenbeek]

Left eye - and have used a grip for 10 years or so with M cameras if that helps.

 

+1

[markpsf]

Sander...I'm not sure what the +1 meant. You vote thumbs up for the Luigi?

 

 

I decided on the MD grip. The Leica users and dealers I've spoken with indicate minute preferences one way or the other re that vs. the Leica and if it's "too close to call" I can't see a reason to spend the extra $.

 

I love Luigi's stuff, have a couple of his neck and wrist straps. I prefer not to use a case though...purely a style preference.

 

I'll play with the grip both with and without my Thumbs Up.

 

I've also gotten good ideas in another thread re different ways of limiting the effect of my small hand tremor.

 

Thanks for all the input.

 

 

Mark

[RockyIII]

I like the Leica half case and have not used a grip on my M9, but I if was thinking about buying one I would also consider Really Right Stuff.

 

Really Right Stuff - BM9: Replacement base for Leica M8/M9

 

Rocky

[drdannn]

I also use the Leica grip, especially with a flash. It just makes for a more secure hold on the camera.