This post isn’t all that informative or insightful. It’s more of me basically thinking out loud and reaching out for input from anyone who cares to express their thoughts on the following subject.
First of all, let me start by saying I love my Canon 5D Mark II. It’s an amazing camera and I love working with it.
That being said, my love of street photography and of things that are “artistic” in nature, I’m considering adding a Leica camera to my gear list. The question is, do I go with Digital or Film?
On the digital side…
I thought about going with a used M8. An M9 would be wonderful, but can I really justify the cost? I can find a used M8 in good condition for less than half the price of an M9. (I’ve looked for used M9s. Hard to find and cost almost as much as a new one – it’s cool how these cameras retain their value!)
The thing that keeps me from moving forward with an M8 purchase is that it uses a cropped sensor. I’m a big fan of full frame.
Film
I recently visited my son and daughter in Portland, OR. I was inspired by my daughter, Celeste’s preference for things of the past. She uses a film camera, listens to vinyl and types letters on an antique typewriter. It got me thinking about getting into film photography.
As romantic as this does seem to me, I have no real experience in the world of film. I’m so spoiled by the amenities offered by digital.
I love
- the assistance of TTL metering
- being able to look at the LCD screen immediately after the photo is taken to see if the shot worked or not
- the convenience of instantly downloading the hundreds of RAW files from my card directly onto my computer so I can start doing the post work in Aperture. (let the creativity begin!)
- not being limited to 36 shots
I figure if I got with a film Leica I would look for an M6 or M7, as they do offer metering assistance.
Leica Lenses!
Hmmmm, another significant consideration. Quality, YES! Costs… hmmmmm…
And then there are always alternatives…
Another camera that has caught my attention lately is the Fujifilm x-100. This is an awesome little camera with a retro look and feel. It would work well for street photography and be a great little travel camera… but would I be satisfied (if I’ve got Leica on the brain)?
My Decision?
They say that not making a decision is a decision by definition, so at this point that’s what I choose. I will wait, keeping both eyes open for a sign from the camera gods as to which path is for me. I’m an impulsive person when I’ve got something on my mind, so this will be a bit of a challenge for me.
How About You?
Any Leica folk reading this? Any words of wisdom? Insights? Or, are you in the same space I am? Drooling over the Leica camera line, trying to justify the costs, deciding between film or digital? I’d love to hear any of your comments!
