Family portrait sessions on the beach with an SL2-S, Can I get the results I am used to with my Canon R system?

[Daniel C]

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Sure. I do think so too, the best way to figure out things is to do them. Appreciate your time. Your answers made me think. Thank you.

[LocalHero1953]

3 hours ago, Daniel C said:

I do have an M10 with a Summicron 50 f2 and Summicron 28mm f2, and even if I personally like the images that I get with the M System I never use it in family sessions as the pictures and colors always turn out a bit "harder" over the Canon colors that work so well where I live.

If you are uncomfortable with the output from the M for your needs, then I don’t think you will find the output from the SL2-S any different. The Leica SL lenses will give you the same look as modern M lenses: strong colours, good micro contrast and overall contrast. The exception, mentioned already, is the Summilux-SL 50 at 1.4-2, but I’d be surprised if you shot that wide open on the beach unless you’re using ND filters. 

That said, I am puzzled that you can’t make the M output work better. Perhaps a bit more work to create a suitable profile or import preset would solve your problem without buying a new camera.

 

[Jeff S]

26 minutes ago, LocalHero1953 said:

That said, I am puzzled that you can’t make the M output work better. Perhaps a bit more work to create a suitable profile or import preset would solve your problem without buying a new camera.

 

Sounds familiar.

[Olaf_ZG]

I guess that colors could be matched in post, though it might some effort to create a profile for this. 

I wouldn’t switch, but add a SL to the kit and see how it works out. Switching systems is an expensive thing to do, and I am not sure if you client will buy more from you because of a new system, having in mind you have a successful formula already.

[jaapv]

Reading all this - do yourself a favour and stick with the success formula you have. Switching to another system and trying to recreate your present niche through postprocessing _ a learning process of years- is bound to end in tears. 

[andybarton]

7 hours ago, Daniel C said:

I built my business with Canon and it has worked great for years and still does

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it (apart from the broken lens, of course).

[jgeenen]

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I don‘t have experience with both cameras, but if you are using AF, you should compare AF performance and reliability of both cameras before making a switch. You can adjust look and colors in post, but you can‘t turn blurred images into sharp ones…

[jaapv]

If he is used to an M and looking at his website ( quite nice work BTW) it is rather unlikely that this is a concern. No screaming and running kids, no Formula1 in sight. 

[Daniel C]

Thank you all for your input. I think I'll begin experimenting with my M and a Color Checker to see if I can achieve more matching results. My first priority is to either repair or replace the 35mm Canon lens. The main source of my frustration is how short-lived the Canon lens has been, despite my efforts to protect it with UV filters, a dry cabinet, and other precautions. I've never had any issues with M glass. 

Edited December 31, 2024 by Daniel C

[Einst_Stein]

Simply not possible.  

Regardless Canon R or EF or NIKON OR SONY, if you are used to a particular system and want to repeat the same image characteristics, the only way is to stick with that system.

But if you want something better or different, you have much more choices.