Up-Grading from D-LUX 2 to a D-LUX 3

[johnnyboy]

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Has anyone traded up from their D-LUX 2 to a D-LUX 3 , if so are the results more impressive and worth the changeover?

[edtpm]

Hello,

 

I did not have D-Lux 2, but I have a Panasonic LX1. Last week, I purchased one Leica D-Lux 3. I had taken some pictures by using LX1 and D-Lux 3 in below link, but I think there are some difference between LX1 and D-Lux2.

 

One thing impress me in D-Lux 3 is that you will able to change the focus point manually among the 9 square in the LCD. My LX1 only allow me to use the central one. It's convenient for me while taking pictures in my 1:43 model cars. I can change the focus point without adjust my composition. FYI

 

 

 

http://www.leica-camera-user.com/other/9690-1-43-collection-vw-golf-r32.html

[Tenor1]

I evaluated a similar upgrade as edtpm and decided to go with the new V-Lux 1. The versitility of the V-Lux makes a substantial difference with the 430 mm tele-lens. In the Auto-Mode setting the color renditions in the Leica are more natural (to me) than the Pany version. I was happy with the Panisonic color but now do a custom white balance to make it even better.

 

People say there is no difference with the Pany/Leica shared models but I can see a difference when I hold the prints in my hands. We've shot with both cameras using the same settings on the same subject.

 

Let us know what you get and what you find doing some comparisons. I am NOT a pro like so many here on this forum.

 

Regards,

Carlos Marques

[johnnyboy]

Thanks Carlos for your constructive reply, much appreciated.

[pnd1]

I have just moved to the D-Lux-3 from the D-Lux-2. The processing engine is different, and I've enhanced potential croppiing ability by going from eight megapixels to ten. The most important advantage is the full frame view of the 16:9 format image on the LCD viewfinder on the D-Lux-3. On the D-Lux-2, there were black bars on top and on bottom of the image, giving a letter box effect, and making details more difficult to see at a glance. I don't see a great difference in image quality -- I usually shoot at ISO 100, and do not make large prints, so noise is not a factor.

 

I use the D-Lux-3 as a secondary camera in the field, primarily for its wideangle, 16:9 format. It is a perfect belt camera, always with me. It can be cupped in one hand, making me less obvious as a photographer.

 

My primary camera is now the V-Lux-1, an entirely different tool. The V-Lux-1 offers a much greater zoom range than the D-Lux-3, tremendous telephoto reach, and a flip out viewfinder which allows me to shoot from the waist. I get lower vantage points without having to crouch or kneel. And I don't mask myself with the camera, which makes me seem less threatening to my subjects.