My first rangefinder, the M8

[roelandinho]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Hi to all,

 

My interest in photography started only a few years ago. At the time, my only camera was the iPhone 4S. I got intrigued by the qualities of light and composition. Scrolling through my Instagram timeline, I would frequently ask myself why certain images "worked" while others didn't. I started reading about the basics of photography, exposure, composition, camera technology, etc.

 

In 2012, after lots of researching, I bought my first "real" camera, the Leica X2 (in black, ofcourse). This seems like an odd choice to many, but it was certainly well-considered. I wanted (and still do) a camera that I can take with me everywere, is digital, of high quality, and one that is optimized for manual exposure, and is purely about photography, without all the other "features" and buttons that impair the usability. Sadly, not that many cameras satisfy these criteria. The X2 does, more so than most other cameras, and I liked this camera a lot. Also the fixed focal length of 24mm (36mm equiv) is very natural to me as it is the same as the iPhone 4S and I can pre-visualize my shots pretty well. But there were a few things that could be better: manual focus with the X2 is unusable in most situations and not fun to use, and I also don't really like autofocus on any camera. Relying on autofocus is not a satisfying way to take pictures, and I find it extremely annoying when the autofocus fails or focuses on the background instead of my subject.

 

A few weeks ago I bought a 2nd hand black M8 with about 3000 shutter activations and wich had a recent cleanup and calibration from Leica, with 6 months warranty. I also bought two 35mm lenses: a brand new Summicron Asph and a used Summilux Asph (pre-FLE). I'm going to use both for some time, then keep my favourite one and sell the other one. I chose 35mm because eventually (after the M8 dies) I will move on to a full-frame M9 or M(240), depending on second hand prices at that time. For now, I will have to get used to 47mm equiv.

 

Thoughts about the M8 so far:

- build quality is amazing, better than any other camera I've held in my hands and certainly a big step above the X2

- manual focus with these lenses feels very satisfying, but takes a lot of practice (to be able to do it fast).

- the shutter is loud and the camera in general draws more attention than the X2

- the quality at base ISO is very special: transitions from dark to light seem more natural and film-like, probably this is due to the CCD sensor. Also, biting sharpness across the frame, due to lack of filtration and sharp lenses

- ISO 320 is good, 640 is usable, if I need to go higher I can better use my phone camera

- files from the M8 have less dynamic range than those from the X2, but I find they usually look better with less post processing

- I have three batteries with me at all times

- I actually like having to take the baseplate off to change batteries or to take out the SD-card. I'm sure this won't last however.

 

So, this was probably too much boring talk, but anyway I just wanted to say hi.

 

If you want, you can take a look at some of my photos: http://flickr.com/ninjaclubhouse

Most of them are taken with the X2, but these two are with the M8 + 35 Summilux Asph:

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!

and

 

I like (constructive) criticism! :-)

 

Roeland

[wda]

Welcome to the forum, Roeland (or is it Dennis?) You certainly have an eye for a good picture, whatever camera is in your hand. So spend time mastering the M8 and read the FAQ on this forum. You will learn many tips.

 

Consider setting up your own Presets which gives you know operating settings quickly.

 

Enjoy!

[Advertisement]

The Leica Q3 is available for pre-order at B&H Photo Video and Adorama

[nCognito]

You and I are at a similar place with our M8's and I agree absolutely with you.

 

Thoughts about the M8 so far:

- build quality is amazing, better than any other camera I've held in my hands and certainly a big step above the X2

- manual focus with these lenses feels very satisfying, but takes a lot of practice (to be able to do it fast).

 

I agree and I seem to have some kind of a 'flat spot' in the middle of the focus range where it gets slightly stiffer, might have to get the lens serviced.

 

- the shutter is loud and the camera in general draws more attention than the X2

 

Yes but it is a very satisfying 'clunck'. I find myself using a cable release a lot to stop shake.

 

- the quality at base ISO is very special: transitions from dark to light seem more natural and film-like, probably this is due to the CCD sensor. Also, biting sharpness across the frame, due to lack of filtration and sharp lenses

- ISO 320 is good, 640 is usable, if I need to go higher I can better use my phone camera

- files from the M8 have less dynamic range than those from the X2, but I find they usually look better with less post processing

 

On my camera I am only really satisfied with ISO 160. I will use 320 but no higher. The photo's are special at low ISO, especially the colour ones.

 

- I have three batteries with me at all times

 

Yes.. , 1 original and 2 x third party.

 

- I actually like having to take the baseplate off to change batteries or to take out the SD-card. I'm sure this won't last however.

[jaapv]

On high ISO. On the M8 it is important to realise that many users have a tendency to underexpose in low light conditions. Additionally the exposure meter will be fooled into underexposure by bright highlights. Underexposure = noise ( and a lot of noise)

.

Expose properly and generously and ISO 1250 is perfectly usable on the M8. As long as you are aware that you have a limited dynamic range.

Edited January 16, 2015 by jaapv

[Sultan of Swing]

Here is a sample for ISO 1250.

 

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!

[boliston]

I find that even iso2500 is usable if converted to B&W - a bit grainy but the grain is not too much like digital noise.

[Loren]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Here is a sample for ISO 1250.

 

https://www.flickr.com/photos/78988397@N02/16100781158/

 

Impressive!

 

ETTR, I assume?

[Lenshacker]

I've been using M8RAW2DNG on the M8, shot at -3ev and ISO160, pushed in Post, ISO1250 equivalent.

 

Marine Corp Museum, M8

 

Marine Corp Museum, M8

[Sultan of Swing]

Impressive!

 

ETTR, I assume?

 

No, automatic exposure by M8 and post processing in LR 4.4.

[bender73]

I still like taking the base plate off.