My first year with Leica rangefinders

[brickftl]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

It's been just about a year since I got my first rangefinder - a M10. And then a few months later I got a M11Monochrom (my favorite camera ever). And along the way I got some truly exceptional Leica lenses.

Here's a sampling of images I've taken with both rangefinders over that year:  https://brick.smugmug.com/Photography/Leica-samples

I'm guessing my path and evolution is similar to that of other photogs. Before getting my M10, I was obsessed with pixel peeping absolute sharpness. Now a year later - what a difference. I no longer care about sharpness, often missing focus by a country mile. Instead, I'm concerned with light, composition and mood.

I still have a Sony A7RV with some big honking (but excellent) lenses. I only use it once a year when I shoot the dress rehearsal of the Asheville ballet, otherwise it sits on the shelf collecting dust.

Edited February 22 by brickftl

[earleygallery]

Yes most of us here use Leica’s because we don’t want sharp photos! Especially those of us who have Noctilux lenses. 

I did enjoy your photos though.

[jakontil]

1 hour ago, brickftl said:

It's been just about a year since I got my first rangefinder - a M10. And then a few months later I got a M11Monochrom (my favorite camera ever). And along the way I got some truly exceptional Leica lenses.

Here's a sampling of images I've taken with both rangefinders over that year:  https://brick.smugmug.com/Photography/Leica-samples

I'm guessing my path and evolution is similar to that of other photogs. Before getting my M10, I was obsessed with pixel peeping absolute sharpness. Now a year later - what a difference. I no longer care about sharpness, often missing focus by a country mile. Instead, I'm concerned with light, composition and mood.

I still have a Sony A7RV with some big honking (but excellent) lenses. I only use it once a year when I shoot the dress rehearsal of the Asheville ballet, otherwise it sits on the shelf collecting dust.

A story telling photo isnt always sharp.. we r on the same page 

[erl]

4 hours ago, brickftl said:

It's been just about a year since I got my first rangefinder - a M10. And then a few months later I got a M11Monochrom (my favorite camera ever). And along the way I got some truly exceptional Leica lenses.

Here's a sampling of images I've taken with both rangefinders over that year:  https://brick.smugmug.com/Photography/Leica-samples

I'm guessing my path and evolution is similar to that of other photogs. Before getting my M10, I was obsessed with pixel peeping absolute sharpness. Now a year later - what a difference. I no longer care about sharpness, often missing focus by a country mile. Instead, I'm concerned with light, composition and mood.

I still have a Sony A7RV with some big honking (but excellent) lenses. I only use it once a year when I shoot the dress rehearsal of the Asheville ballet, otherwise it sits on the shelf collecting dust.

I agree with previous posters. You have some nice images, especially since it is your first year handling RF cameras. I think you should give it a fling shooting your ballet group with the Leicas next time. Years ago I was shooting ballet and theatre with Nikons, until one day I was tempted into using my Leica M6. I have never used my Nikons for that again, or anything else. My children and Grand children play with the Nikons now.

[costa43]

Nice pics Brick. I’m the same. Sharpness holds very little importance to me. I usually look for moments and light. The simplicity of the rangefinder is perfect for this. 

[erl]

Bare in mind, that groups like Ballet company's and Drama groups will expect good technical quality and not be over indulgent in 'our' aesthetic cries of excellence. All this is possible with RF cameras, with the addition of talent and experience to back it up.

[Chris W]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Yes, a lot of great photos.

For me, nothing is off the table. I aim to be in focus every time. I also like sharp images. I prioritise all when shooting.

I'm looking for a great composition, I try hard to focus correctly, I hold my camera steady and I rarely shoot at the absolute lowest f stop.

If I end up with some fantastic images that are slightly out of focus, I don't beat myself up over it.

 

[Stevejack]

Some really nice photos in there @brickftl 📸👍

[brickftl]

thanks all for the compliments, much appreciated

[Dazzajl]

Gorgeous pics. They all have life and tell a story. Looks like when you found your M, you found your way home.