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Going Digital??


iphoenix

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I hate having to ask this question, as I love Leica film cameras and their results. I have M's 2, 3, 4P and 6, plus a 1(A) and IIIF. Lenses are 28(Canon), 35 (Voigtlander), 50 (various Leitz and Canon), 90 (Leitz) and 135 (Leitz and Canon). In my area, it is becoming more and more difficult to have film processed. With commercial processing, is an M8 or M8,2 body an option that would give me similar results to film? I would have to sell some of my other bodies to buy it :eek:. I am a hobby/collector photographer, not commercial.

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Digital and film are two different mediums. I'm not a fan of digital 'film' effects and prefer to use the real thing, if that's the look I'm after (although I admit to using effects from time to time with my digital images!).

 

I can understand your frustration, even where I live in outer London, I'm limited on places to take film for processing, but I'm lucky to still have a couple of options nearby and several more in town (it's just difficult getting to them when I need to).

 

I do my own B&W processing (traditional B&W film that is). It's really simple and takes less time than running a film over to the lab. Colour is still relatively simple but more costly.

 

Can you visit a dealer and try an M8 or 9 out? If not download some images (there are test reports with sample files online) and print them out - see how you think they compare.

 

That said, you have 4 M bodies. Sell 2 of them and you will have enough for an M8, so all is not lost if you don't take to it.

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Thank you James, I agree with your thoughts regarding digital "effects". Though my digital experience has been confined to compact cameras, to me the photos lack the depth obtainable on film. I live in a holiday town, some distance from second-hand camera dealers so most of my photographic purchases are made via the internet. I'll take your advice re the on-line test reports though. Kind regards, David

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It's not just about the camera; it's about a commitment, and a learning curve, for an entire digital workflow from camera to print, including choice of papers, inks, etc.

 

I developed and printed film in my darkrooms for decades, including from film M's, but decided to go all-digital 5 years ago, buying an M8.2 for the transition. It's still a capable tool.

 

I don't compare my silver versus digital prints, but I also don't hesitate to mat, frame and hang them in the same exhibit. With a great print of a great pic, the audience doesn't care what tools were used.

 

Jeff

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