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My D-Lux 4 just arrived! - suggestions for set-up / tips?


sparkie

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UPS just dropped it off, along with the hand grip, 2x batteries and black leica case.

 

I have the battery charging up. Any tips, suggestions before I go out shooting? :D

 

1. Firmware update: I think there is a new firmware release from Leica. Any issues with this new FW I should be aware of?

 

2. Settings: Any fav/settings that you recommend (or not recommend)

 

3. RAW or JPEG? : I normally shoot RAW, but i hear the JPEGs are pretty good with this cam. Which do you shoot, or do you select both

 

4. RAW Processor: which do you recommend... the one shipped or lightroom / aperture / photoshop or..

 

5. Accessories: any you recommend?

 

 

TIA :D:D

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Hi. Congratulations on your new camera.

 

I would recommend upgrading the firmware, and I haven't heard of any negative issues with it. Just be careful to follow the instructions carefully. :)

 

Many users prefer to set the flash compensation to -1/3 or -2/3 stop.

 

I use RAW & JPG, that way you have the best of both worlds.

 

I think that Capture One is about the only raw processor for the RWL files at present. Hopefully Aperture will be upgraded to handle these soon.

 

Enjoy your camera, it's a great choice. :):)

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Try out the "dynamic black and white" JPEG setting. I usually shoot RAW but this setting can give some very fine B+W images. Yes, as Nicole said a -2/3 EV on the flash works very well for basic fill flash. Lightroom will also handle the D LUX 4 files. Have fun. It's a great image making tool. Good luck.

. . . Burkey

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Hi. I think that Capture One is about the only raw processor for the RWL files at present. Hopefully Aperture will be upgraded to handle these soon.

 

Actually Lightroom 2.3 also supports RWL files.

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I'll add that the flash was a source of great frustration for me when I first got my D-Lux 4, but the firmware upgrades alleviated the problems of white balance and overexposure. In non-flash mode, this camera has no equal in the compact world.

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  • 2 weeks later...

I shoot in RAW+JPEG mode on my DL4. I almost always just go with the JPEGs as they're imported into iPhoto because they look freakin' great.

 

But sometimes, on some shots, I want to be able to play with the RAW images. I've used both Camera One and Photoshop/Lightroom (via Adobe Camera Raw 5.3 (or is it 5.2?)). I'm not an expert on any of them, but Camera One's automatic processing SEEMS to do a nicer job than Lightroom. But I'm new on that learning curve.

 

As for accessories, mine's modded to the hilt. I have the lensmate 46mm lens adaptor and use a Hoya UV or polarizing filter on it as conditions warrant. The lensmate is on with some kind of a filter permanently because I've found that it is absolutely IMPOSSIBLE to keep the D-LUX's lens clean otherwise and I do not get very satisfactory cleaning results on the D-LUX lens using a Leica microfiber cloth and either ROR or Formula MC.

 

I also have Richard Franiec's hot shoe cover and a Zagg protector for the LCD screen. Finally, I have the Leica case (beautiful) but cannot currently use it due to the attached Lensmate adaptor.

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One tip I found helpful was to download a copy of the Panasonic LX3 user manual. It's much more clear and user friendly than the Leica version.

Jeff

 

Jeff, where did you find that manual as a download? I´ve been cussing, crying, laughing hysterically & c over Panasonic´s web site for over 10 minutes without finding any trace of it.....:confused:

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As for accessories some of us find the strap from Gordy well worth the investment and if you find the camera a bit slippery, you might like to consider Leica's own handgrip or the one from Richard Franiec. Then again there is the optical viewfinder if you prefer to 1) save some battery juice and 2) holding the camera more steady instead of arm's length .... hope this help with your further investment and have fun with your new leica :-)

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