I was lucky. My first "real" rangefinder was an M3 that my dad gave me when I was in high school. He got tired of rangefinder shooting and I was the fortunate recipient. A very early double stroke, with 50mm Summarit f1.5, and a Canon Serenar 135. Also came with flash gun, flash bracket, Leica Meter (with booster), and filters. A few years later, I traded it at a local camera show for a single stroke with dual range Summicron. I later added an M4 so I could shoot with the 35mm Summicron. This was all 35-45 years ago. Prices were reasonable back then. I don't have either of those cameras now, but I have an M2 (from KEH) and an M5, both of which I love.
Sadly the M4-P isn't really a cheaper option anymore, I think people kind of caught on to the fact that it has 28mm frame lines and it's basically an M6 without a light meter so the prices have sky rocketed over the last year or so.
I would consider a M4 with the Keks or Reveni Lab finder. You would have the best all mechanical Leica (before Leica starts cutting costs) with a very acceptable metering setup.
@@djnato10 and even those “cheap” options are expensive af now 🤣. I just picked up an M2 a few months ago and they were averaging like $1600 for one that wasn’t entirely beat to hell.
@@Suckmine10 I remember way back in like 2003 I was trying to buy a m4 at my local camera store they wanted 800 bucks I was trying to save for it but wasn't able to get it.
I have a Leica M3 w a Voigtlander 50mm f1.5 Aspherical Nokton lens. did use an Elmar 50mm collapsible f 2.8 lens but found its design slower to use. Use a Gossen handheld Pilot meter with my Leica M3, and the results pleasing. Leica is seen as a gold standard for rangefinders. Bought mine which had a CLA on eBay and never looked back. This video will be helpful to prospective Leica owners.
It's an addiction! I started with the M4, then bought an M5 & finally moved up to the M6 TTL. I love them all! But it's not the bodies that cost so much but the lenses. I only own one Leica lens but have several Zeiss lenses which are great. I'm just glad I bought mine before prices really started climbing.
I always learn a lot from your videos Matt. For me as a relative newbie (2 years) in film photography, a rangefinder system is not for everyone so i suggest trying out other more affordable options such as the Olympus XA, or the Canon 7 or Canon P series. If one enjoys that it's more comfortable to make a leap into the Leica M system. This is how I did it but I'm sure there are people who can go straight into the Leica M system and love it...or hate it...
Imma bring up the weirder leica's just in case anyone wants to know. The Leica cl is an m mount small Leica camera (manufactured by Minolta) and has a light meter and 40/50/90 frame lines. And if you want an slr there are the leicaflex and Leica r cameras (personally I have a Leica r4) and It's comparable to the features that say a Nikon f3 to very briefly sum it up. From what I know all Leica r cameras besides the r8 and r9 are also manufactured by Minolta. Please correct me if I got something wrong.
I'm not sure about the Leica R5, which I have along with an R8 as well. as far as I know they were made by Leica but I could be wrong as well. the R8 is one of those love them or hate them cameras, they do tend to cause a lot of division, mainly for their design, which I personally think is a rather good looking camera. they're beautiful to use and with my Elmarit R 90mm lens on it ,produces wonderful images. and one good thing about the Leica R series cams is that they are an inexpensive (well, reasonably so as far as Leica's go ) to own a Red dot camera. and I agree with you about the R4, as it is so close to my R5 and also owning a Nikon F3 they are almost the same in their features.
Here is a good article about the Leitz-Copal-Minolta partnership (down below). Essentially Minolta and Ernst Leitz (Leica) shared designs and Leica would take Minolta SLRs and use them as the base for their own. The Minolta XE would become the R3 and the XD the R4 through R7. I don't have a Leica, but I can say that the XE7 and XD11 are superb cameras. casualphotophile.com/2019/01/03/leitz-minolta-retrospective/ www.mikeeckman.com/2020/05/minolta-xe7-1974/
I chose the M3 since I primarily shoot 50 and 90mm, and I’m so so happy with my decision. Prices aren’t as crazy as the bodies with wider framelines. And I might even pick up a Minolta Rokkor 40mm f2 lens until I can afford a good 50. Should be easy enough to shoot that lens using 50mm frame lines. But I also have a 90mm. Pro tip: if you love shooting 90, the M3 is your best friend. With the giant viewfinder, nailing focus is so easy even wide open. Great video, cheers!
This was my decision to bought a M3-model. Today I use three lenses (50 mm - 90mm and 135 mm). The 90 mm an 135 mm are Elmar from Leitz (Leica). My 50mm lens is a Voigtländer Nokton (1 : 1,5). This is a great lens. Greetings from Germany!
Nothing but love for KEH! Picked up my M4 from them and their grading system are consistent or yet even better than what they would actually grade the items.
Great video as always Matt! I, like many people, thought about getting a Leica M camera. Instead I opted for the Canon P to shoot with on my channel. It’s a really great rangefinder for people who don’t have the money to spend on a Leica
If you want a really cheap Leica M, go for the underrated MDa. It's an M4 without a view/rangefinder. That sounds like it would be bad but you can get a shoe mount external rangefinder for under £20 and then you have a bargain cheap almost Leica M4 for usually under £500. There is also the MD-2 (M4-2 without a viewfinder) for around £700-800, an MD (based off the M2) for £400-600, and the M1 which is an M2 with a viewfinder but no rangefinder for £500-600
My first M was an M3. Only after I bought it I realized it had a modern 0.85 viewfinder. I liked it though. Then I bought am M6. That was about 12 years ago, when prices were low. The M3 with a rigid type 2 Summicron cost only 800 EUR, the M6 without a lens cost my only 600 EUR. I sold both after some time, missed them, bought an M2 with a full set - 35 mm Summaron, 50 mm collapsible Summicron, 90 mm Elmar, all lenses in good condition, 1000 EUR. Sold it, too, after a few years. Now I missed a rangefinder camera again and bought my first M5. I paid only 1000 EUR in 2023 - probably would have been 400 EUR 10 years ago, but today it is the cheapest M you could buy. It came with a fresh CLA, 1 year warranty and a conversion to 1.55 V LR44 batteries. Almost a steal. Seriously: It is the best M I ever owned. I know it is disliked for its looks. But the ergonomics are just out of this world if you compare it with any other M. The shutter dial is so big that you can operate it with your hand on the camera in shooting position, which otherwise is only possible with the M6 TTL. It also shows the shutter time, a really important feature no other film M ever offered. Why not? It is important if you use a meter! And the meter is really tight, almost a spot meter. I really hate center weighted meters like that of the M6 and used an ambient meter most of the time, making the M6 not better than any non-metered Leica. With the M5 I can keep the camera bolted to my eye with a preset aperture and measure all areas of the frame easily. Fantastic machine!
@@isaiahherve it will still work in A mode, I'm not sure how well(don't have the flash for it) but you can use it in manual mode. Learning manual flash is not that hard ☺️ it was fun for me. Just keep in mind your max shutter speed is 1/50.
Good little run down of some of the choices for M buying. I went with an M4 because the light meter wasn't a deal breaker for me, but I did want 35mm framelines (even though at the time I was using 50mm a lot, 35mm has since become my go-to) and the newer loading mechanism. As you said in the video, it's about deciding what's important for you and your photography. The M6, MP or MA pretty much do it all but come at a price. I'm chuffed with my M4 and it's not going anywhere.
The used prices are so high that I just went for a brand new MP instead. Either using it for life or selling it after a few years, it's gonna be worth it. That is unless there is a film photography apocalypse where 35mm film is no longer available.
One more thing to point out about the M7 is its precision. In aperture priority mode the shutter speed has full, half and third stops. Doesn’t matter much with color negative or black and white but it definitely does with slide.
Hi Matt hope you are well, so the dream is an M2 but I live in the UK and the prices will always be beyond my means! So I wondered what you would choose as an alternative? (Bessa are also silly money here)
I have an M4 and adore it, but I've found since I got the M10-R I rarely shoot it to be honest :/ the flexibility and analog 'feel' of the 10 is just too good.
Just got a Leitz/Minolta CL, really really happy with it. I shot with a friend's M3 for a few hours but it was a little too heavy and big for what I want in a 35mm camera. Don't want that when I'm often also carrying a medium format camera ;)
Did you mention the M2? I might have missed it. Anyways, the M3 double-stroke with a collapsible 50mm Summicron from the 50's is my setup. Couldn't be happier with it. Just a joy to shoot. Honestly, I feel blessed to have the means to shoot with it.
I love my M3 DS, I have a V3 Summicron out at YYE at the moment, but I have a 50/2.8 collapsible elmar on it right now and it’s such a joy to use. My favorite camera hands down.
M3 is the Best option for 50mm, put a cold-shoe lightmeter + a 50mm noctilux or a cheaper option like a nokton (or any 50mm) , then take your snikers and walk in your city for self-safe street photography.
Long-term goal is to get an used MP. M6 are out of this world and no prospects of prices coming down. Not sure if it's accurate but apparently we can't get new parts anymore for the M7. I'll keep my M3 DS but yearning for that sweet MP on a good deal.
Just pulled the trigger on a M4 that I’ll be sending out for a CLA when it arrives. Now I just need to decide which focal length and do I go with a LTM from Canon, a Zeiss or Voitlander.
So much to take into consideration with Leica M cameras. The M3 is a cheap option, if you don't want a light meter in camera, but you also don't get the rapid load system - at least not on the ones, I have seen put up for sale locally. The M4 costs as much as the M6 around here - without the light meter, but I'm told, it has a bright very good viewfinder. The M5 is by far the cheapest M model with a light meter, but it's bigger and has different ergonomics to the rest of the range. Because of its' stellar reputation, the M6 is almost impossible to get these days - at least around here. The M7 has the look of the M6, but the need for batteries makes it less desirable and therefore a bit cheaper than the M6 - and if you're lucky you can still find some new still in box in stock at a camera store here or there - it was in production until a few years ago. And, the MP - and MA are sold out and they were more expensive than any of the other Leica M cameras when they were in stock. For me, the choice is between the M5 and the M7, and it really comes down to the ergonomics of the M5 for me. If the M5 fits in my rather big hands, that's the way, I'm gonna go - that will also make it possible for me to get faster glass, than if I decide on the more expensive M7.
Another thing to consider would be the actual design of the light meter inside the VF. I tried an M5 once (indoors), and found the meter difficult to see (I wear glasses). I haven't tried an M7 but presume it's the same red LEDs like on the M6/MP. Then there's accessories like the Leicavit, or Motor M which won't fit on the M5, obviously. Unless it's an M5 that has been repaired it will presumably have older electronics than a M7, although I understand the M5 was built to a very high standard. I heard something about the serial numbers on the M5, I think the later ones were better made? M7/M6/MP also gives you a choice of different magnification in the VF, if that matters. I shoot an M2, though, so what do I know?
@@Ruylopez778 Those are good points. as I understand it, serial numbers above 134xxxx are the M5 cameras with the improvements over the original as problems in the production line had been solved by then.
@@NPJensen Yeah, I don't really remember the specifics, but I was looking at them a few years back. Seemed like a difference in price between the serial numbers, but probably just minor stuff exaggerated on the internet. I love the look of the M5, but the VF is quite far away from the edge of the camera for me. It's a bit awkward for my face, especially with glasses. Shame that gear is going up in price, but I guess I should just remind myself to be grateful for what I have, and concentrate on using it better, lol.
Over a year now with my M2 - happiness defined and no need to buy any more rangefinders (..er except for the Leica IIIf I bought recently, but that's another story)
I literally preordered a new Chrome MP about a month ago because at the prices (Canadian) for an M6/TTL, I could spend a bit more (Leica-wise haha) for a warranty and brand new camera. Just waiting for it to arrive now!
Cool video Matt! Personally I could never justify the expense of a Leica camera and a comparable lens to go with it. There are a few alternatives that are really great and I’m not talking about the Bessas. Personally I shoot with a Konica IIIA which is a fixed lens rangefinder and the absolute pinnacle of Japanese engineering! Build quality pound for pound as good as any Leica and maybe even a bit better! It has a 50 1.8 Hexanon which is as sharp as any Leica lens and the Konica has an effective base length of 50mm! Leicas are great cameras but the prices have become ridiculously high for what they are. And in all honesty I do believe that for quite a few it’s more of a status symbol than anything else. Okay running, ducking and hiding now.
Great video 👍🏻👍🏻. Like suburbia a Leica m is out of my price range 😂😂. Not as fussy about gear as I once was at this point in my life I seldom get time to shoot anymore.
Yashica Electro 35 50mm f1.7. A clear winner. Includes 2 return tickets to Thailand and 2 weeks beachside accommodation. Which photos will be more interesting?
Other Leica’s which are older include the old Barnack models like Leica II and III series. I have the Leica IIIf, it’s ok but just looks very ancient when out shooting. For those on a budget, there are other rangefinder options, Voigtlander Bessa R (Cosina made), which are no longer being manufactured, I had one with a Voigtlander 35mm lens, great camera, but build quality is not rugged as some of the more expensive rangefinders. I wish that I had no sold it in 2009. There are also rangefinders made by Nikon and Canon. Nikon made the S series rangefinders in the 1950’s and into the early 1960’s. They are getting pricey, the lenses are not compatible with other rangefinders. Nikon reissued a anniversary S3 in 2000. The Canons are nicer than Nikon in my opinion, being compatible with other LTM lenses. I have the Canon L2 and it is a brick, very rugged and reliable. Nothing will match a Leica, but for those that are unable to afford one yet, there are options.
I would disagree about the M5: it is a brick and the light meter system is problematic, fragile and prone to break-ups. 10 years ago I got an M6 for $1000 (I also wished I had bought 2 or 3 so I could sell one and buy a used Leica M lens now ;o). I find the in-camera light meter very useful and I do not need a flash on aLeica M so no need to spend more money for a M6 TTL. The M4-P is a good option too but requires an exterior light meter. The M7 relies too much on its electronic shutter and batteries. Once the batteries (x2) are dead then your camera becomes a posh paperweight for experts (with a very limited shutter speed option).
M4-P/M4-2 I believe are made with Zinc top & bottom plates rather than brass. & they were produced in Canada, which is another reason why they are a bit on the “cheaper” side
My only suggestion to anyone buying a Leica system is to find any organs you aren't using and sell them. If you have the stomach for it maybe harvest someone else's organs? Once you've collected about 17 kidneys, 10 livers and 3 hearts you will finally have enough to buy a old film body or maybe a used M10. Then you will have your new camera. At that point you will need lenses. If the heat is too high after a string of people having their organs harvested maybe at that point consider robbing a bank or alternatively selling drugs. Then once you have riddled your city with enough meth you should have enough money for one Leica lens. You won't be able to afford multiple so find out which focal length you like the best 28, 35, 50, 85 and 105. Then once you have finally bought your one single lens you have a complete Leica system. Congratulations. You will be the coolest and hippest organ harvester/drug dealer in the world.
I just bought Leica glass. 28mm f2,8 Elmarit IV E46 from 1997. 969 Euro or 1184 Dollars. Not too expansive i think. The E46 is a lot better then version III E49. And I just bought a Leica summicron C 40mm f 2.0 too for around 590 Dollars in very good condition. Unbelievable: Both lenses are not more expensive than 2010. There are still bargains out in 2021. But there are many crazy prices in 2021 too. For the M6, M4, M3 or the 35mm summicron king of bokeh as you all know. Around 2010 nobody cares about film. Therefore the cameras and lenses were much cheaper. I paid for my M6 from 1995 in mint condition around 1000 Dollars. And even more unbelievable. My 35mm f2 summicron IV king of bokeh from 1994 in mint condition costed 2010 only 800 dollars. Can you believe that? Today it as at least triple the price. And even crazier: For my Leica M4 I paid only 500 Dollars. My M4-P Canada and my 50mm summicron IV from 1992 coasts me each only 400 Dollars.
Hi Matt, why only the film version of M? The digital M are also a fantastic option to consider.. I think, nowadays you can get a M8 or M9 for about less than M6TTL, M7, and definitely less than MP and MA.
Love your content Matt but surprised to see you skipped over the M5. It's odd to me how often leica enthusiasts seem to try to erase it from Leica's history. I have an m5 and m6ttl. Love them both, for different reasons.
Money no object/new camera? MP Need a meter/hot shoe? M6, M5, M7, MP Need Aperture Priority? M7 Don't need a meter? M4, M3, M2, M4P, M4-2 Don't need a meter, and prefer to shoot only 50mm focal length? M3 Don't need a meter and prefer to shoot 28/35 as well as 50mm? M4 M2, M4P, M4-2 On a tight budget? M4P, M4-2 might be cheaper Don't need a meter, or even need a finder? M1 M7, M6, M5, M4, M4P, M4-2 are quicker to load and rewind than M3 or M2 (if that matters to you) Want a nearly new M without the meter (and cheaper than the MP)? M-A (though internal parts in the M-A perhaps aren't the gold standard like the MP). Wear eyeglasses? You might want to try different magnification VF (try hands on) depending on your preferred focal length before purchase (for M6/M7/MP) Collector? Black paint M3/M2/M4, MP Titanium, MP3, Hermes edition, MP safari edition
@@gouzigounette I got an M2, on the pretext that is was described as the most 'zen' of the M. Plus it looked like a good price at the time (2016) and the shutter speeds seemed pretty accurate. But on a really cold day, I sure do wish it had the M4 style rewind crank and easy load.
Nice video , pity that you Mericans always focus on the USA cause there is a (better) world beyond USA where there are many good and even better, selling points of Leica gear or Photography gear in particular. But then , those wouldn't give you a kick back !!
Bought my M4 new in ‘74. Use it almost every day..
Let me have it
Let me buy it off you at some point
@@wolffgang101 Thanks for your comment. I love the camera. When you use any tool for a long time, it just becomes part of you..
I also have a '74 M4... purchased from KEH 2 years ago for 800USD, and its MINT!
Friends just gave me a M4 absolutely love it
M4 all day long! Solid build and 100% manual for those who don't like a light meter. Love shooting with it.
It’s no secret that every video like this bumps the price 😂
PUMP AND DUMP INVEST IN LEICACOIN
I was lucky. My first "real" rangefinder was an M3 that my dad gave me when I was in high school. He got tired of rangefinder shooting and I was the fortunate recipient. A very early double stroke, with 50mm Summarit f1.5, and a Canon Serenar 135. Also came with flash gun, flash bracket, Leica Meter (with booster), and filters. A few years later, I traded it at a local camera show for a single stroke with dual range Summicron. I later added an M4 so I could shoot with the 35mm Summicron. This was all 35-45 years ago. Prices were reasonable back then. I don't have either of those cameras now, but I have an M2 (from KEH) and an M5, both of which I love.
The M5 is underrated and very well priced on the used market. I love mine :)
Sadly the M4-P isn't really a cheaper option anymore, I think people kind of caught on to the fact that it has 28mm frame lines and it's basically an M6 without a light meter so the prices have sky rocketed over the last year or so.
This is spot on. M6's and M4-P's are almost the same price now. If you want a "cheap" Leica an M2 or M3 are really the only options right now.
I would consider a M4 with the Keks or Reveni Lab finder. You would have the best all mechanical Leica (before Leica starts cutting costs) with a very acceptable metering setup.
@@djnato10 and even those “cheap” options are expensive af now 🤣. I just picked up an M2 a few months ago and they were averaging like $1600 for one that wasn’t entirely beat to hell.
I remember M4s going for like 1000 a few years back and thought maybe this hobby isn't for me, joke's on me
@@Suckmine10 I remember way back in like 2003 I was trying to buy a m4 at my local camera store they wanted 800 bucks I was trying to save for it but wasn't able to get it.
I have a Leica M3 w a Voigtlander 50mm f1.5 Aspherical Nokton lens. did use an Elmar 50mm collapsible f 2.8 lens but found its design slower to use. Use a Gossen handheld Pilot meter with my Leica M3, and the results pleasing. Leica is seen as a gold standard for rangefinders. Bought mine which had a CLA on eBay and never looked back. This video will be helpful to prospective Leica owners.
You’re absolutely right about the cost of an MP vs an M6 and why more people don’t just buy an MP.
WOW, I was literally just going to TH-cam to look for a Leica guide. What a timing. Thanks Matt!
It's an addiction! I started with the M4, then bought an M5 & finally moved up to the M6 TTL. I love them all! But it's not the bodies that cost so much but the lenses. I only own one Leica lens but have several Zeiss lenses which are great. I'm just glad I bought mine before prices really started climbing.
I always learn a lot from your videos Matt. For me as a relative newbie (2 years) in film photography, a rangefinder system is not for everyone so i suggest trying out other more affordable options such as the Olympus XA, or the Canon 7 or Canon P series. If one enjoys that it's more comfortable to make a leap into the Leica M system. This is how I did it but I'm sure there are people who can go straight into the Leica M system and love it...or hate it...
Imma bring up the weirder leica's just in case anyone wants to know. The Leica cl is an m mount small Leica camera (manufactured by Minolta) and has a light meter and 40/50/90 frame lines. And if you want an slr there are the leicaflex and Leica r cameras (personally I have a Leica r4) and It's comparable to the features that say a Nikon f3 to very briefly sum it up. From what I know all Leica r cameras besides the r8 and r9 are also manufactured by Minolta. Please correct me if I got something wrong.
Don't forget the Leica MDa, which is a sweet rig as well.
I'm not sure about the Leica R5, which I have along with an R8 as well. as far as I know they were made by Leica but I could be wrong as well. the R8 is one of those love them or hate them cameras, they do tend to cause a lot of division, mainly for their design, which I personally think is a rather good looking camera. they're beautiful to use and with my Elmarit R 90mm lens on it ,produces wonderful images. and one good thing about the Leica R series cams is that they are an inexpensive (well, reasonably so as far as Leica's go ) to own a Red dot camera. and I agree with you about the R4, as it is so close to my R5 and also owning a Nikon F3 they are almost the same in their features.
Here is a good article about the Leitz-Copal-Minolta partnership (down below). Essentially Minolta and Ernst Leitz (Leica) shared designs and Leica would take Minolta SLRs and use them as the base for their own. The Minolta XE would become the R3 and the XD the R4 through R7. I don't have a Leica, but I can say that the XE7 and XD11 are superb cameras.
casualphotophile.com/2019/01/03/leitz-minolta-retrospective/
www.mikeeckman.com/2020/05/minolta-xe7-1974/
I chose the M3 since I primarily shoot 50 and 90mm, and I’m so so happy with my decision. Prices aren’t as crazy as the bodies with wider framelines. And I might even pick up a Minolta Rokkor 40mm f2 lens until I can afford a good 50. Should be easy enough to shoot that lens using 50mm frame lines. But I also have a 90mm. Pro tip: if you love shooting 90, the M3 is your best friend. With the giant viewfinder, nailing focus is so easy even wide open. Great video, cheers!
This was my decision to bought a M3-model. Today I use three lenses (50 mm - 90mm and 135 mm). The 90 mm an 135 mm are Elmar from Leitz (Leica). My 50mm lens is a Voigtländer Nokton (1 : 1,5). This is a great lens. Greetings from Germany!
Nothing but love for KEH! Picked up my M4 from them and their grading system are consistent or yet even better than what they would actually grade the items.
Great video as always Matt! I, like many people, thought about getting a Leica M camera. Instead I opted for the Canon P to shoot with on my channel. It’s a really great rangefinder for people who don’t have the money to spend on a Leica
I love my M5! It’s definitely worth checking out.
KEH is supposed to receive tomorrow $1.7k of gear using your code Matt in case you want to track on your side 🙂 (I assume you get something out of it)
Got my Leica CL last week and it’s a treat.
Would love to see a follow up video with Trev comparing his FM3a with your FM2 🙏
If you want a really cheap Leica M, go for the underrated MDa. It's an M4 without a view/rangefinder. That sounds like it would be bad but you can get a shoe mount external rangefinder for under £20 and then you have a bargain cheap almost Leica M4 for usually under £500.
There is also the MD-2 (M4-2 without a viewfinder) for around £700-800, an MD (based off the M2) for £400-600, and the M1 which is an M2 with a viewfinder but no rangefinder for £500-600
My first M was an M3. Only after I bought it I realized it had a modern 0.85 viewfinder. I liked it though. Then I bought am M6. That was about 12 years ago, when prices were low. The M3 with a rigid type 2 Summicron cost only 800 EUR, the M6 without a lens cost my only 600 EUR.
I sold both after some time, missed them, bought an M2 with a full set - 35 mm Summaron, 50 mm collapsible Summicron, 90 mm Elmar, all lenses in good condition, 1000 EUR.
Sold it, too, after a few years.
Now I missed a rangefinder camera again and bought my first M5. I paid only 1000 EUR in 2023 - probably would have been 400 EUR 10 years ago, but today it is the cheapest M you could buy. It came with a fresh CLA, 1 year warranty and a conversion to 1.55 V LR44 batteries. Almost a steal.
Seriously: It is the best M I ever owned. I know it is disliked for its looks. But the ergonomics are just out of this world if you compare it with any other M. The shutter dial is so big that you can operate it with your hand on the camera in shooting position, which otherwise is only possible with the M6 TTL. It also shows the shutter time, a really important feature no other film M ever offered. Why not? It is important if you use a meter!
And the meter is really tight, almost a spot meter. I really hate center weighted meters like that of the M6 and used an ambient meter most of the time, making the M6 not better than any non-metered Leica. With the M5 I can keep the camera bolted to my eye with a preset aperture and measure all areas of the frame easily. Fantastic machine!
Got my M6 classic last year and I can confirm, the hype is real. My favourite camera by far.
I have the M6 classic and I got the SF24D flash for it, but I don’t have the TTL version lol do you have any tips ?
@@isaiahherve it will still work in A mode, I'm not sure how well(don't have the flash for it) but you can use it in manual mode. Learning manual flash is not that hard ☺️ it was fun for me. Just keep in mind your max shutter speed is 1/50.
I find this very informative and useful prior to making a decision on such an expensive camera. Thank you
Got an M4 paired with Voigtlander color skopar 35mm a few months ago, very reliable body and a fun little lens! Now i’m saving up for 50mm summicron.
This makes so much sense to me. With M6 and M7 prices where they are, the MP is looking more and more sensible...
Good little run down of some of the choices for M buying. I went with an M4 because the light meter wasn't a deal breaker for me, but I did want 35mm framelines (even though at the time I was using 50mm a lot, 35mm has since become my go-to) and the newer loading mechanism.
As you said in the video, it's about deciding what's important for you and your photography. The M6, MP or MA pretty much do it all but come at a price. I'm chuffed with my M4 and it's not going anywhere.
The used prices are so high that I just went for a brand new MP instead. Either using it for life or selling it after a few years, it's gonna be worth it.
That is unless there is a film photography apocalypse where 35mm film is no longer available.
One more thing to point out about the M7 is its precision. In aperture priority mode the shutter speed has full, half and third stops. Doesn’t matter much with color negative or black and white but it definitely does with slide.
I just recently picked up an M3, absolutely love it. I’ll never sell it!
Hi Matt hope you are well, so the dream is an M2 but I live in the UK and the prices will always be beyond my means! So I wondered what you would choose as an alternative? (Bessa are also silly money here)
I have an M4 and adore it, but I've found since I got the M10-R I rarely shoot it to be honest :/ the flexibility and analog 'feel' of the 10 is just too good.
Just got a Leitz/Minolta CL, really really happy with it. I shot with a friend's M3 for a few hours but it was a little too heavy and big for what I want in a 35mm camera. Don't want that when I'm often also carrying a medium format camera ;)
Did you mention the M2? I might have missed it. Anyways, the M3 double-stroke with a collapsible 50mm Summicron from the 50's is my setup. Couldn't be happier with it. Just a joy to shoot. Honestly, I feel blessed to have the means to shoot with it.
I love my M3 DS, I have a V3 Summicron out at YYE at the moment, but I have a 50/2.8 collapsible elmar on it right now and it’s such a joy to use. My favorite camera hands down.
M3 is the Best option for 50mm, put a cold-shoe lightmeter + a 50mm noctilux or a cheaper option like a nokton (or any 50mm) , then take your snikers and walk in your city for self-safe street photography.
Where's my M2 gang at?
woop woop! "wait what number was I on? Did I adjust my dial?.. F* it lets shoot."
Long-term goal is to get an used MP. M6 are out of this world and no prospects of prices coming down. Not sure if it's accurate but apparently we can't get new parts anymore for the M7. I'll keep my M3 DS but yearning for that sweet MP on a good deal.
Oh please Matt... go down that rabbit hole... we will tune in!
Just pulled the trigger on a M4 that I’ll be sending out for a CLA when it arrives. Now I just need to decide which focal length and do I go with a LTM from Canon, a Zeiss or Voitlander.
So much to take into consideration with Leica M cameras.
The M3 is a cheap option, if you don't want a light meter in camera, but you also don't get the rapid load system - at least not on the ones, I have seen put up for sale locally.
The M4 costs as much as the M6 around here - without the light meter, but I'm told, it has a bright very good viewfinder.
The M5 is by far the cheapest M model with a light meter, but it's bigger and has different ergonomics to the rest of the range.
Because of its' stellar reputation, the M6 is almost impossible to get these days - at least around here.
The M7 has the look of the M6, but the need for batteries makes it less desirable and therefore a bit cheaper than the M6 - and if you're lucky you can still find some new still in box in stock at a camera store here or there - it was in production until a few years ago.
And, the MP - and MA are sold out and they were more expensive than any of the other Leica M cameras when they were in stock.
For me, the choice is between the M5 and the M7, and it really comes down to the ergonomics of the M5 for me. If the M5 fits in my rather big hands, that's the way, I'm gonna go - that will also make it possible for me to get faster glass, than if I decide on the more expensive M7.
Another thing to consider would be the actual design of the light meter inside the VF. I tried an M5 once (indoors), and found the meter difficult to see (I wear glasses). I haven't tried an M7 but presume it's the same red LEDs like on the M6/MP. Then there's accessories like the Leicavit, or Motor M which won't fit on the M5, obviously. Unless it's an M5 that has been repaired it will presumably have older electronics than a M7, although I understand the M5 was built to a very high standard. I heard something about the serial numbers on the M5, I think the later ones were better made? M7/M6/MP also gives you a choice of different magnification in the VF, if that matters. I shoot an M2, though, so what do I know?
@@Ruylopez778 Those are good points. as I understand it, serial numbers above 134xxxx are the M5 cameras with the improvements over the original as problems in the production line had been solved by then.
@@NPJensen Yeah, I don't really remember the specifics, but I was looking at them a few years back. Seemed like a difference in price between the serial numbers, but probably just minor stuff exaggerated on the internet.
I love the look of the M5, but the VF is quite far away from the edge of the camera for me. It's a bit awkward for my face, especially with glasses.
Shame that gear is going up in price, but I guess I should just remind myself to be grateful for what I have, and concentrate on using it better, lol.
Funnily enough I always liked the look of the M5 but I've never seen one for sale locally.
Of course I'm happy with my M6 ; )
Over a year now with my M2 - happiness defined and no need to buy any more rangefinders (..er except for the Leica IIIf I bought recently, but that's another story)
snapped my Like new minus M7 from KEH, now trying to decide between the new Voightlanders and the older Zeiss ZM lenses :D.
I literally preordered a new Chrome MP about a month ago because at the prices (Canadian) for an M6/TTL, I could spend a bit more (Leica-wise haha) for a warranty and brand new camera. Just waiting for it to arrive now!
Cool video Matt! Personally I could never justify the expense of a Leica camera and a comparable lens to go with it. There are a few alternatives that are really great and I’m not talking about the Bessas. Personally I shoot with a Konica IIIA which is a fixed lens rangefinder and the absolute pinnacle of Japanese engineering! Build quality pound for pound as good as any Leica and maybe even a bit better! It has a 50 1.8 Hexanon which is as sharp as any Leica lens and the Konica has an effective base length of 50mm! Leicas are great cameras but the prices have become ridiculously high for what they are. And in all honesty I do believe that for quite a few it’s more of a status symbol than anything else. Okay running, ducking and hiding now.
Thank you for another great video!
I love my M5, and my R8 😊
KEH is such a useful place to hunt for film cameras; glad you're spreading the gospel!
Bought my M6 classic in 2014 for 165 dollars. No joke!
Found an M4-2 last year, fantastic camera for a way lower price if you don’t mind it being Canadian.
Great video 👍🏻👍🏻. Like suburbia a Leica m is out of my price range 😂😂. Not as fussy about gear as I once was at this point in my life I seldom get time to shoot anymore.
Can’t afford an M series camera, so I was able to buy a couple of Barnack Leicas for less than $500. Love them.
Well done, Father Day.
Yashica Electro 35 50mm f1.7. A clear winner. Includes 2 return tickets to Thailand and 2 weeks beachside accommodation. Which photos will be more interesting?
I bought a leitz Minolta, cheapest leica you can get, but would love to have a full size leica some day
I love my M1. It's my daily carry.
Other Leica’s which are older include the old Barnack models like Leica II and III series. I have the Leica IIIf, it’s ok but just looks very ancient when out shooting.
For those on a budget, there are other rangefinder options, Voigtlander Bessa R (Cosina made), which are no longer being manufactured, I had one with a Voigtlander 35mm lens, great camera, but build quality is not rugged as some of the more expensive rangefinders. I wish that I had no sold it in 2009.
There are also rangefinders made by Nikon and Canon. Nikon made the S series rangefinders in the 1950’s and into the early 1960’s. They are getting pricey, the lenses are not compatible with other rangefinders. Nikon reissued a anniversary S3 in 2000. The Canons are nicer than Nikon in my opinion, being compatible with other LTM lenses. I have the Canon L2 and it is a brick, very rugged and reliable.
Nothing will match a Leica, but for those that are unable to afford one yet, there are options.
All lawyers and surgeons are smiling 🥲
Will you be doing one of these videos on the Leica R system?
I’m broke so I traded my Yashica Mat 124 for a Canon P w/ Canon Serenar 50f1.8. We’ll see how long until I get that Leica bug bite though 😂
I thought the P would satiate my Leica lust.. it didn't. Still a great camera but the want for a Leica will never go away.
@@imjasonennis3624 hahaha yea I feel I’ll always want an M4 no mater what I buy lol same for digital, I’ll a,ways want a Leica Q-P
I would disagree about the M5: it is a brick and the light meter system is problematic, fragile and prone to break-ups. 10 years ago I got an M6 for $1000 (I also wished I had bought 2 or 3 so I could sell one and buy a used Leica M lens now ;o). I find the in-camera light meter very useful and I do not need a flash on aLeica M so no need to spend more money for a M6 TTL. The M4-P is a good option too but requires an exterior light meter. The M7 relies too much on its electronic shutter and batteries. Once the batteries (x2) are dead then your camera becomes a posh paperweight for experts (with a very limited shutter speed option).
I’ve got an M3 & would love to trade up to an M6 TTL
Nice camera but sadly will never be able to afford one
What’s the difference between m4-p with m4 classic?
Are they made of brass top plate too?
M4-P/M4-2 I believe are made with Zinc top & bottom plates rather than brass. & they were produced in Canada, which is another reason why they are a bit on the “cheaper” side
@@alexisayala3308 ah alrighty! Thanks mate
How about digital leica M?
I have an M3 ds and an M10p. Both amazing and the M3 is the best rangefinder for the viewfinder and focusing 👍
My only suggestion to anyone buying a Leica system is to find any organs you aren't using and sell them. If you have the stomach for it maybe harvest someone else's organs? Once you've collected about 17 kidneys, 10 livers and 3 hearts you will finally have enough to buy a old film body or maybe a used M10. Then you will have your new camera. At that point you will need lenses. If the heat is too high after a string of people having their organs harvested maybe at that point consider robbing a bank or alternatively selling drugs. Then once you have riddled your city with enough meth you should have enough money for one Leica lens. You won't be able to afford multiple so find out which focal length you like the best 28, 35, 50, 85 and 105. Then once you have finally bought your one single lens you have a complete Leica system. Congratulations. You will be the coolest and hippest organ harvester/drug dealer in the world.
M5 👌
Great video!
I just bought Leica glass. 28mm f2,8 Elmarit IV E46 from 1997. 969 Euro or 1184 Dollars. Not too expansive i think. The E46 is a lot better then version III E49.
And I just bought a Leica summicron C 40mm f 2.0 too for around 590 Dollars in very good condition. Unbelievable: Both lenses are not more expensive than 2010. There are still bargains out in 2021.
But there are many crazy prices in 2021 too. For the M6, M4, M3 or the 35mm summicron king of bokeh as you all know.
Around 2010 nobody cares about film. Therefore the cameras and lenses were much cheaper. I paid for my M6 from 1995 in mint condition around 1000 Dollars. And even more unbelievable. My 35mm f2 summicron IV king of bokeh from 1994 in mint condition costed 2010 only 800 dollars. Can you believe that? Today it as at least triple the price.
And even crazier: For my Leica M4 I paid only 500 Dollars. My M4-P Canada and my 50mm summicron IV from 1992 coasts me each only 400 Dollars.
Actually just got a Leica today!
Here before the “ yOuRE a sElL0uT LEiCa bOi” 🥴 comments.
Leicas do seem nice. Just too expensive for me
Whenever a TH-camr recommends a certain camera the price goes through the roof lol.
The only thing I don't like about Leica cameras is the price thy are selling today, it's ridiculous.
The M6 Millennium. That's the dream.
Hi Matt, why only the film version of M? The digital M are also a fantastic option to consider.. I think, nowadays you can get a M8 or M9 for about less than M6TTL, M7, and definitely less than MP and MA.
Meter? I don’t need a f***ing meter. M2 is the way to go.
M4-p with an external light meter. Now you got yourself an m6
*With modern electronics that are replaceable/reparable without having to send off the body - that's my set up. Winner
M5 : "guess I'll die"
Love your content Matt but surprised to see you skipped over the M5. It's odd to me how often leica enthusiasts seem to try to erase it from Leica's history. I have an m5 and m6ttl. Love them both, for different reasons.
Did you watch the video? That was the first camera I talked about.
Money no object/new camera? MP
Need a meter/hot shoe? M6, M5, M7, MP
Need Aperture Priority? M7
Don't need a meter? M4, M3, M2, M4P, M4-2
Don't need a meter, and prefer to shoot only 50mm focal length? M3
Don't need a meter and prefer to shoot 28/35 as well as 50mm? M4 M2, M4P, M4-2
On a tight budget? M4P, M4-2 might be cheaper
Don't need a meter, or even need a finder? M1
M7, M6, M5, M4, M4P, M4-2 are quicker to load and rewind than M3 or M2 (if that matters to you)
Want a nearly new M without the meter (and cheaper than the MP)? M-A (though internal parts in the M-A perhaps aren't the gold standard like the MP).
Wear eyeglasses? You might want to try different magnification VF (try hands on) depending on your preferred focal length before purchase (for M6/M7/MP)
Collector? Black paint M3/M2/M4, MP Titanium, MP3, Hermes edition, MP safari edition
I'm in the M4-2 team!! Great body, just as reliable as other M4 body (minus a timer, plus a hot shoe) Really great.
@@gouzigounette I got an M2, on the pretext that is was described as the most 'zen' of the M. Plus it looked like a good price at the time (2016) and the shutter speeds seemed pretty accurate. But on a really cold day, I sure do wish it had the M4 style rewind crank and easy load.
Bruh didn’t even mention magnifications tho...
in 2021😢 watching this in 2024, M6 $6k MP $6k
Hope it includes a shout out for NoctiGirl very young channel who did a very good round-up on Leica M bodies 🙂
I'm actually selling mine. 😅 If anybody wants a beautiful custom painted M3 its up on ebay right now. 🙃
Gonna be REALLY controversial and say my favorite Leica is my Minolta CLE. RIP my notifications
Nice video , pity that you Mericans always focus on the USA cause there is a (better) world beyond USA where there are many good and even better, selling points of Leica gear or Photography gear in particular.
But then , those wouldn't give you a kick back !!
Seems like you’ve just discovered what a sponsorship deal is and are shocked by the concept?
@@BenHeathcote No it's quite common with those so called "pro channels"
But I prefer honesty above selling once soul for a couple of bucks.
M6 ist very expansive nowadays. The Leica M5 is more affordable and has some better features.
But it looks poopy mam
@@itsmaxikaksi its actually the one I like the look the most ;D lucky for me
not really, problaly the worst inverstiment you can do nowdays
leica buying guide: get a zorki
no
*Sniff sniff* Smells generic clickbaity leica video
Another video about cameras only a few can buy smh
Flash on a Leica? Blasphemy!
"so you want to buy a Leica..." nope, not really. hahaha.