The 50mm Lux is great. I am still so amazed (in a positive way) that you shoot weddings with a Leica M. Your clients get something very special with the M look.
I started with Nikon, then changed to Fuji. Still love both systems (especially Fuji - I still shoot x-pro2 with the sweet 16mm 1.4), but one unfortunate day I decided to skin myself alive by buying an almost decrepit M9 and I financed the 50'lux ASPH Silver to attach to it.....all of you out there that did the same, you know what that feels like : repeated photographic orgasm! This lens alone, blows out of the water, in my opinion, all my awesome Nikon & Fuji glass put together and some ! It is truly a fabulous piece of kit! Unless apocalypse strikes, I cannot see myself parting with this masterpiece! Whoever says anything highly praising about this Leica 50, is true hundreds of times over!!!! Is it fast? Maybe in the best of hands (not mine, for sure)! Is it light as its minute size suggests? No, its like you are holding a tank's weight in a matchbox ! Is it sharp? There are sharper lenses out there if you are after "stupid sharp", but this is "the nicest sharp ever", Is it a joy to use? Sometimes I take it out of the bag just to look at it and touch it, so , it must be! : ) Your video is yet another rightful ode to this rather exceptional piece of beautiful German engineering ! I subscribe to everything you said!
I've had the Summilux 35mm for 15 years and it's always been the best lens I've ever owned. Shooting exclusively on M6TTL and my mind is blown with every roll.
Beautiful. You really get this lens to sing. The one other attribute of the Leica lenses is their resistance to fungus. I say that because living in Hawaii has ruined my Zeiss and Nikon lenses with fungus but my Leica lenses, exposed to the same conditions, have remained pristine.
A well-done review! A pre-owned Summilux-M 50mm ASPH, in the display case at Houston Camera Exchange in Houston, Texas, in early 2018, was the main factor that pulled me into the Leica M system. I knew that I wanted to buy the lens, before I knew which camera body I would be able to afford. I crunched the numbers, and bought a new M10, with the lens. The Summilux-M 50mm ASPH is the “people” lens that is, indeed, worth its price. A lifetime lens.
I’m interested to hear how the 50/1.4 you just picked up works for you! This would definitely be much smaller and be able to see some cross-platform use ;)
Matt, I deleted my previous comment that I wrote 3 hours back, here on this very thread, after I just saw your video -- "All in on Leica \\ SL2 First impression" .... just in case you missed reading, ... it was about your 50 RF that you sold, .. & 50 Summilux (which I use with my M10-P *white* limited edition) ..... but now there's no point talking on it since you've already purchased the Lumix S PRO 50mm f/1.4 .... congrats on getting the SL2. Best wishes brother. now this new comment is about the BLM. There are people who believe that BLM is a movement backed, promoted, & funded by George Soros (Hungarian-American billionaire investor), and that the George Floyd's death was staged. Reason I am telling you here is that if I had commented this on your video, it would have angered some of your subscribers, and may be you too. Sorry if I offended you, I have no proofs but you can do your own research. I know you have a deep emotional connect with Leica, & I am also a Leica user of 6 months now, who's looking to buy more Leica gear in future, like the Q2, SL2, M-Monochrom, etc., and I am neither a Black nor a White man, but Brown, from India. White is my favourite color, that's why I purchased the *White* limited edition M10P ... but I am not a White (or black, brown) Supremacist. #AllLivesMatter. Thanks, Warm Regards.
Love the review ! I use this lens as well and while it isn't actually advertised, this lens is actually an APO, so it doesn't have any chromatic aberration, or at the very least it's very corrected.
Great video! It's fun to see others discover Leica. This was my first M-lens! It really is the *best* general purpose 50mm currently in the Leica catalog. I used it for over a year with my M9's, but eventually let it go for the previous version, the so-called "pre-aspherical" version, because I felt that the ASPH version was just *too* perfect (slash sharp/clinical/whatever). I just prefer the character (and imperfections!) of the pre-ASPH version.
Two months ago I couldn't longer resist the temptation and bought a brand new Summilux 50 at my Leica shop, Mimosa Foto. It's a great step forward compared to Zeiss and Voigtländer lenses.
Your photos are amazing. Your clients can consider themselves happy to have you at their weddings. To get the frame and focus right, especially with a Leica, is really hard. Well done! Wish I had you for our wedding (although our photographer was really good as well). Thanks for the review!
So glad this video now exists! I've been wanting someone (credible, like Benj) to talk about their experience with the 50mm Summilux-M. I own one, and it is my absolute favorite lens as well. Every attribute, from the physical design and ergonomics, to image characteristics that are described in this video, make this a very special piece of glass that hasn't received quite the attention it's due. (My guess is that, since it's a few years old but not a vintage lens, it sits in a weird space that pre-dated these kinds of TH-cam videos on new and old camera gear.) Anyway, thank you Benj for producing such a thoughtful edit, and for including so many of your own photographs to highlight the capabilities of this killer lens!
Respect for someone who shoots something as fast paced as a wedding focusing with a rangefinder. I bought the 50mm summilux recently second hand, and I got a religious experience. Amazing piece of glass!
Weddings aren’t really that fast paced (news photojournalist turned wedding photographer here), compared to an NFL game, or riots, or similar. You don’t need great autofocus to photograph people standing at the altar, or people drinking cocktails, or even for the recessional. Once you’ve practiced for just a few days, rangefinders are insanely predictable and quick to focus.
Nice vid! The 50 Lux ASPH is pure magic. I almost stole mine used from one of my local stores because the previous owner had managed to leave a cleaning mark in the coating. I saw that they had a used 50 Summicron and the 50 Lux. I tried the Summicron first, then the Lux and the rest is history. I love that lens. It’s definitely my most favorite lens.
Love your channel! I'm a M6 & M3 shooter with the 50mm f/2 Summicron and f/1.5 Leitz Summarit. It's good to see content centered around the Leica M Mount system.
Probably one of the most intelligent, constructive and helpful lens reviews I've seen to date. Outstanding images as well. Just what I needed to finally make a decision on this lens. Easy decision to subscribe. Thank you Benj.
I have similar feelings about the Nikon 50 1.8 S, especially regarding chromatic aberrations, even though it doesn't get quite as buttery as this 1.4. You make gorgeous images!
Great Video. Just purchased the updated version of this with a new shortend shooting distence possibility to 45cm instead of 70cm. I will rock this on a SL2/S and with a Q on the other side.
Thanks Benj.I am enjoying 50 Summilux since 2 weeks now and I must admit , it is the perfect balance between sharpness and old school beauty pictures it renders! A real classic!
An amazing lens for sure. But a bit too expensive for me haha. Great shots, I really enjoyed the inclusion of the photos, it shows that you aren’t just someone with an expensive lens, but a true professional. I have four film Leicas, but aside from a 50mm Summicron III, the rest of my lenses are Zeiss and Voigtlander. But now you’ve got my thinking....I could sell some kit and pick up a used 50mm summilux....haha
Benj, very good video. I have to say the very first Leica lens I used was a Summilux 50mm f1.4. I rented it and an M9 and was sold. The photos of even mundane subjects just sang. The Lux50 is a great lens.
Hello Benj, I really have to blame you for me getting the "Leica-bug" again :). Some years after selling my used M9 your M240 video made me lust again, so I found a great deal on a used M240 in a local camera store... having just two 7artisans lens (the 35 f2 is GREAT, the 50 1.1 is... special, it's usable at 1.4-2 and from there on) I found myself looking for 50 Summilux not only but also because of your video ;). So, in a way, thank you for the great impressions and videos you gave me. My bank account curses you BUT a) you only live once and b) it brings joy :). So stay safe, thanks again and please continue to do those great videos, please.
Whoa! Beautiful photos throughout this video to show us what you're talking about. There's a huge amount of credibility to seeing work from people who make photos for a living. Thanks for the review!
The Summilux ASPH has an APO design, but Leica never confirmed it officially. It's a superb lens and a 50 mm will always be my favorite for press photography. 4.695 USD are a lot of money, but the quality will remain long after the price is forgotten.
Leica has more recently admitted it is indeed an apochromatic lens. I guess they didn’t see APO as a useful marketing tool when the lens came out and so didn’t make any fuss about it. More recent Leica APO lenses have put the APO designation front & center.
Interesting you love the Lux so much. I’ve owned it twice now but could never get on with it. The focusing compared to the summicron has been poor IMO due to the floating elements in the summilux design. It has this kinda janky feeling in parts of the lens when you are rotating the focus. The summicron on the other hand is much quicker when I’ve used it. The 35mm Lux FLE also has this issue when I tested it. Your copy is perfectly smooth?
It took me four copies (used) to find a 50/1.4 ASHP that was perfect wide open at the closest focus distance on my M262. Every copy seemed to have some kind of mechanical issue too. I sent the one I kept to DAG, who relubed the lens with the good, old grease he has, to eliminate a sticking point in the focus throw.
Hi Benj. Almost medium format looking indeed. Did comparaison tests between Hasselblad 645 80 2.8 and the Summilux...Summilux had a more 3D quality. I could and have shot entire weddings only with this lens (and a close up filter for details). I love it on the M6. Works great on the EOS R too. Have you ever tried a Noctilux 50?
I've only shot a few frames on it. Honestly, the size/weight/cost sort of prohibit me from ever owning one. Really cool lens though. Also, how would you use a closeup filter with a rangefinder??
i agree completely with you, i will fly back to germany next year after corona problems and will buy one ... i think it is a really special lens and must have for a Leica Photographer
Beautiful photos! But Good Grief!, whence came this current TH-camr fetish for having the "background" music in competition with the information being conveyed? I have a Leitz Canada 50mm f/2 Summicron-M on my M10. I don't need the extra stop (though it actually goes to f/1.7, so I do get a half-stop more than the nominal f/2) and I like the light weight and compact size: the combo slots neatly into the center console of my F-150. Were I in your line of work, I probably would go for the Summilux or even the Noctilux. Thanks for the video. I've subscribed.
Yep this is real Pro lens and sharp! Unlike other guy who wants to sell his lens after a couple of film rolls, your shots are sharp and good colour! I guess photographer`s skill is also needed for this lens to shine!
Great video! It’s my favorite lens for any system. I use it a lot on my M240 and sometimes on my Nikon Z6. I have ordered the SL2-S today and I can not wait to shoot the 50mm on the new camera. Greetings from Austria
Nice! It indeed looks like Medium format. Your shots with this lens are amazing. Do you usually shoot it wide open or close it down a bit for better micro contrast and to get that MF look? I only own non-ASPH lenses because most of them are too clinical, but somehow this lux and also the lux 35mm hold a good balance between sharpness and unique rendering. Another one I thought had this balance pinned down was the Summicron 28mm f2.
I'm thinking about this lens for my R6 and street photography. There's a lot of lenses available that will no doubt be nearly as good, for much less money. What to do, what to do...
Wow!! Great video! I just upgraded from a micro four thirds to a full frame digital camera, and now I think maybe I should have invested in a high-end lens. But ... naw, I need (want) the full frame camera AND I need (definitely need) great lenses for both the micro four thirds & full frame! I don't have the m-mount, so I can't get this exact lens, but you've given me a lot to think about. Again, great video! Thank you!!
This is kinda along the lines of how I feel about the Fujifilm XF 35mm f1.4. It just has some characteristics that are hard to describe, that produce such special results. Now, of course, we’re talking about a completely different price range, haha, but from what I’ve experienced as a photographer I think that lens is how I can relate to what you’re saying about the Leica.
Beni HI I have using the pre-asph. for 30 years. I can.t let this lens go for its character, so i Understand. I am an old dude 70 plus. i shoot now digital M9, M typ 240. If I lose or break this lens Wow.. I know I can find something on ebay but. the 50mm f 1.4 summilulx- M. wow.
Hi Benj, I keep coming back to this video just for inspiration and I'm wondering now that the new 50 Summilux had come out will you be interested in testing it out and reviewing it, and possibly upgrading to the new one? Thanks!
Good lens for wedding for sure. But owning both lenses, I must confess that for general photography and almost anything I prefer the Summilux pre Asph V3, which is a Mandler pure marvella....
Benj! Thanks for sharing so much, you’re one of my biggest inspirations in photography. Now I’m trying to figure out how to sell a kidney to buy this Summilux haha. Question: I’ve always been in the Canon system and recently picked up the EOS R which opens up new lens adapting options. I’m curious if you’ve ever adapted the Summilux to the R and if so, what your thoughts are? I can’t help but think that this lens paired with the upcoming R5 would be an amazing combination.
I'm looking into getting a different camera to replace my FF Sony SLT and I'm a bit torn. I don't think I can get into leica M with range finders (since I never used them and I don't find the ergonomics particularly appealing) and I'm not sure something like SL mount cameras are a good match for leica M lenses. But from what I'm seeing, none of the other lenses match the depth of rendering of leica lenses.
Benj, I’m a photography enthusiast who has just jumped from Fujifilm to Leica. I’m on the fence and it yours and Matt Osborne’s fault. I find that you have both made compelling arguments for the Leica 50mm lens. Matt for the Noctilux 50mm f1.0 and you for the Leica Summilux 50mm f1.4. Is the noctilux stopped down to 1.4 and more equal in IQ as your beloved Summilux 50 1.4? Help me on this one. Thank you and continued happiness and success to you and yours. Chaps
Hey! I’ve only taken a few shots on a Noctilux over the years and never on the f/1 version. I’d assume the Summilux ASPH would be superior as it’s more modern and apparently is an APO lens, but I couldn’t tell you for sure without comparing the two.
@@benjhaisch Thank you for sharing your insight. Much appreciated. I’ve decided to save up for the 21 3.4, 35 f2, & 50 1.4. I already own the APO 75 & 90 f2’s. Continued happiness and success to you and yours.
Benj, do you use ND-filters with this lens? Most of your wedding pictures seem like they were shot wide open at daylight or golden hour. Also, have you tried the 35mm FLE? How do 35mm and 50mm fit into your wedding photographer kit?
Lux 50 is the most versatile 50mm ever made buy Leica. For Peter Karbe (Head of lens design at Leica's) it's the optimum : smaller than the Noctilux. Faster than the Apo Summicron. It's also my favorite lens with witch I make ⅔ of my pictures (the other ⅓ is with an Elmarit 28). I should point out that the ultimate pleasure is Lux 50 + M camera, not Lux adapted to an other brand.
Interesting review in parts, your comments about the 50mm not being a long or wide angle lens are a bit funny though. The 50mm is standard because it more closely represents our natural angle of view. Anyway, nice review overall.
I owned the Summilux since before the Nokton was announced, so I haven’t. I’ve shot a lot of Voigtlander lenses that are great, but none that have that special feel that I get from the Lux. Obviously a massive price difference though, so I probably would have tried it a few years ago if this was available.
This was the first lense recommended by my friend when I finally entered the world of Leica. He said I should start practicing rangefinder techniques on this one. I’ve been wanting to buy the 35mm 1.4 not because I am dissatisfied with this one but only because I don’t have that one. Then again there are so many that I don’t have. I was told to master this one first before buying a new one.
The 50mm Lux is great. I am still so amazed (in a positive way) that you shoot weddings with a Leica M. Your clients get something very special with the M look.
I started with Nikon, then changed to Fuji. Still love both systems (especially Fuji - I still shoot x-pro2 with the sweet 16mm 1.4), but one unfortunate day I decided to skin myself alive by buying an almost decrepit M9 and I financed the 50'lux ASPH Silver to attach to it.....all of you out there that did the same, you know what that feels like : repeated photographic orgasm! This lens alone, blows out of the water, in my opinion, all my awesome Nikon & Fuji glass put together and some ! It is truly a fabulous piece of kit! Unless apocalypse strikes, I cannot see myself parting with this masterpiece! Whoever says anything highly praising about this Leica 50, is true hundreds of times over!!!! Is it fast? Maybe in the best of hands (not mine, for sure)! Is it light as its minute size suggests? No, its like you are holding a tank's weight in a matchbox ! Is it sharp? There are sharper lenses out there if you are after "stupid sharp", but this is "the nicest sharp ever", Is it a joy to use? Sometimes I take it out of the bag just to look at it and touch it, so , it must be! : )
Your video is yet another rightful ode to this rather exceptional piece of beautiful German engineering ! I subscribe to everything you said!
You’re a bad influence on my bank account. Enjoying the frequent content, keep it up!
haha I know the feeling. Thanks!
I knew it was going to be a mistake watching this video 😢
Next one he introduce is Loctilux 50mm
LEBLANC find one for me to review ;)
refreshing to see someone who actually knows how to use a camera and take wonderful pictures with it.
well done, sir.
Thank you!
I've had the Summilux 35mm for 15 years and it's always been the best lens I've ever owned. Shooting exclusively on M6TTL and my mind is blown with every roll.
Beautiful. You really get this lens to sing. The one other attribute of the Leica lenses is their resistance to fungus. I say that because living in Hawaii has ruined my Zeiss and Nikon lenses with fungus but my Leica lenses, exposed to the same conditions, have remained pristine.
Finally a nice review of a great lens, I paid $5800 Aus for mine......worth every cent. Love your photography too. Cheers.
A well-done review!
A pre-owned Summilux-M 50mm ASPH, in the display case at Houston Camera Exchange in Houston, Texas, in early 2018, was the main factor that pulled me into the Leica M system. I knew that I wanted to buy the lens, before I knew which camera body I would be able to afford. I crunched the numbers, and bought a new M10, with the lens.
The Summilux-M 50mm ASPH is the “people” lens that is, indeed, worth its price. A lifetime lens.
Totally besides the point, but the black camera with silver lens looks beautiful. Always liked that color combination!
Now that I’ve got the SL2, you’ve got me seriously considering grabbing this lens. 😭
I’m interested to hear how the 50/1.4 you just picked up works for you! This would definitely be much smaller and be able to see some cross-platform use ;)
Matt, I deleted my previous comment that I wrote 3 hours back, here on this very thread, after I just saw your video -- "All in on Leica \\ SL2 First impression" .... just in case you missed reading, ... it was about your 50 RF that you sold, .. & 50 Summilux (which I use with my M10-P *white* limited edition) ..... but now there's no point talking on it since you've already purchased the Lumix S PRO 50mm f/1.4 .... congrats on getting the SL2. Best wishes brother.
now this new comment is about the BLM. There are people who believe that BLM is a movement backed, promoted, & funded by George Soros (Hungarian-American billionaire investor), and that the George Floyd's death was staged. Reason I am telling you here is that if I had commented this on your video, it would have angered some of your subscribers, and may be you too. Sorry if I offended you, I have no proofs but you can do your own research. I know you have a deep emotional connect with Leica, & I am also a Leica user of 6 months now, who's looking to buy more Leica gear in future, like the Q2, SL2, M-Monochrom, etc., and I am neither a Black nor a White man, but Brown, from India. White is my favourite color, that's why I purchased the *White* limited edition M10P ... but I am not a White (or black, brown) Supremacist. #AllLivesMatter.
Thanks, Warm Regards.
@@chirag4 you’re stupid....you say you have no proof but that don’t stop you sharing such stupid and ignorant conspiracy theory? Fuck you bro
Love the review ! I use this lens as well and while it isn't actually advertised, this lens is actually an APO, so it doesn't have any chromatic aberration, or at the very least it's very corrected.
Great video! It's fun to see others discover Leica. This was my first M-lens! It really is the *best* general purpose 50mm currently in the Leica catalog. I used it for over a year with my M9's, but eventually let it go for the previous version, the so-called "pre-aspherical" version, because I felt that the ASPH version was just *too* perfect (slash sharp/clinical/whatever). I just prefer the character (and imperfections!) of the pre-ASPH version.
Two months ago I couldn't longer resist the temptation and bought a brand new Summilux 50 at my Leica shop, Mimosa Foto. It's a great step forward compared to Zeiss and Voigtländer lenses.
I had this bad boy and miss it every day. I now have the 50 Lux ASPH SL. It’s freaking incredible but maybe has slightly less character as well.
Your photos are amazing. Your clients can consider themselves happy to have you at their weddings. To get the frame and focus right, especially with a Leica, is really hard. Well done! Wish I had you for our wedding (although our photographer was really good as well). Thanks for the review!
Thank you so much!
Would never use a Leica cause it’s not practical, but this video was great. I could feel your enthusiasm, got me excited
I keep coming back to this video, I actually have this lens being delivered next week, can't wait! Great video Benj!
So glad this video now exists! I've been wanting someone (credible, like Benj) to talk about their experience with the 50mm Summilux-M. I own one, and it is my absolute favorite lens as well. Every attribute, from the physical design and ergonomics, to image characteristics that are described in this video, make this a very special piece of glass that hasn't received quite the attention it's due. (My guess is that, since it's a few years old but not a vintage lens, it sits in a weird space that pre-dated these kinds of TH-cam videos on new and old camera gear.)
Anyway, thank you Benj for producing such a thoughtful edit, and for including so many of your own photographs to highlight the capabilities of this killer lens!
Thanks!
Respect for someone who shoots something as fast paced as a wedding focusing with a rangefinder. I bought the 50mm summilux recently second hand, and I got a religious experience. Amazing piece of glass!
Weddings aren’t really that fast paced (news photojournalist turned wedding photographer here), compared to an NFL game, or riots, or similar.
You don’t need great autofocus to photograph people standing at the altar, or people drinking cocktails, or even for the recessional. Once you’ve practiced for just a few days, rangefinders are insanely predictable and quick to focus.
Nice vid! The 50 Lux ASPH is pure magic. I almost stole mine used from one of my local stores because the previous owner had managed to leave a cleaning mark in the coating. I saw that they had a used 50 Summicron and the 50 Lux. I tried the Summicron first, then the Lux and the rest is history. I love that lens. It’s definitely my most favorite lens.
Agree 100% with everything you said! This is the one lens I will never sell.
You created some beautiful work with this exceptional lens.
Thank you!
Stunning images too, wow. Loving the production quality of the videos as of late!
Thanks dude! Appreciate it 🤙🏼
Love your channel! I'm a M6 & M3 shooter with the 50mm f/2 Summicron and f/1.5 Leitz Summarit. It's good to see content centered around the Leica M Mount system.
Probably one of the most intelligent, constructive and helpful lens reviews I've seen to date. Outstanding images as well. Just what I needed to finally make a decision on this lens. Easy decision to subscribe. Thank you Benj.
I have similar feelings about the Nikon 50 1.8 S, especially regarding chromatic aberrations, even though it doesn't get quite as buttery as this 1.4.
You make gorgeous images!
Your photos are astonishing
Subbed!! Awesome review, wonderful pics. Just picked up the 50 1.4 black chrome version for my SL2-S, and ended up picking up a mint M10 as well.
Great Video. Just purchased the updated version of this with a new shortend shooting distence possibility to 45cm instead of 70cm. I will rock this on a SL2/S and with a Q on the other side.
I own one and an APO Summicron 90/2 asph. Simply the best lenses that I've ever own.
I don’t have the asph but that 90mm 2.0 is sweet. It’s weird that it’s not appreciated as much because of size
@@Chris-ey7zy I use mine on Sony a7r2. The redition is warm but boy, it gives and image that is special. The apo cron 90 is my fave.
Thanks Benj.I am enjoying 50 Summilux since 2 weeks now and I must admit , it is the perfect balance between sharpness and old school beauty pictures it renders! A real classic!
An amazing lens for sure. But a bit too expensive for me haha. Great shots, I really enjoyed the inclusion of the photos, it shows that you aren’t just someone with an expensive lens, but a true professional. I have four film Leicas, but aside from a 50mm Summicron III, the rest of my lenses are Zeiss and Voigtlander. But now you’ve got my thinking....I could sell some kit and pick up a used 50mm summilux....haha
Finally, a review with sample photos. Well done. You convinced me. I am buying one....thanks.
Benj, very good video. I have to say the very first Leica lens I used was a Summilux 50mm f1.4. I rented it and an M9 and was sold. The photos of even mundane subjects just sang. The Lux50 is a great lens.
Geez. The contrast and color rendition looks amazing. I'm assuming it's also in combination with your great editing skills too though...
It’s the best lens I’ve ever used in many ways.
Hello Benj, I really have to blame you for me getting the "Leica-bug" again :). Some years after selling my used M9 your M240 video made me lust again, so I found a great deal on a used M240 in a local camera store... having just two 7artisans lens (the 35 f2 is GREAT, the 50 1.1 is... special, it's usable at 1.4-2 and from there on) I found myself looking for 50 Summilux not only but also because of your video ;). So, in a way, thank you for the great impressions and videos you gave me. My bank account curses you BUT a) you only live once and b) it brings joy :). So stay safe, thanks again and please continue to do those great videos, please.
Thanks!
Whoa! Beautiful photos throughout this video to show us what you're talking about. There's a huge amount of credibility to seeing work from people who make photos for a living. Thanks for the review!
The only lens I've ever regretted selling! Looking for for a pre-owned to get one soon.
Likewise, and I've had a lot of Leica lenses.
The Summilux ASPH has an APO design, but Leica never confirmed it officially. It's a superb lens and a 50 mm will always be my favorite for press photography. 4.695 USD are a lot of money, but the quality will remain long after the price is forgotten.
Leica has more recently admitted it is indeed an apochromatic lens. I guess they didn’t see APO as a useful marketing tool when the lens came out and so didn’t make any fuss about it. More recent Leica APO lenses have put the APO designation front & center.
Interesting you love the Lux so much. I’ve owned it twice now but could never get on with it. The focusing compared to the summicron has been poor IMO due to the floating elements in the summilux design. It has this kinda janky feeling in parts of the lens when you are rotating the focus. The summicron on the other hand is much quicker when I’ve used it. The 35mm Lux FLE also has this issue when I tested it. Your copy is perfectly smooth?
It took me four copies (used) to find a 50/1.4 ASHP that was perfect wide open at the closest focus distance on my M262. Every copy seemed to have some kind of mechanical issue too. I sent the one I kept to DAG, who relubed the lens with the good, old grease he has, to eliminate a sticking point in the focus throw.
Thank you for a very enjoyable educational video.
Hi Benj. Almost medium format looking indeed. Did comparaison tests between Hasselblad 645 80 2.8 and the Summilux...Summilux had a more 3D quality. I could and have shot entire weddings only with this lens (and a close up filter for details). I love it on the M6. Works great on the EOS R too. Have you ever tried a Noctilux 50?
I've only shot a few frames on it. Honestly, the size/weight/cost sort of prohibit me from ever owning one. Really cool lens though. Also, how would you use a closeup filter with a rangefinder??
@@benjhaisch It is indeed heavy but I always wondered about it.. close up filter? M240 live view :)
This lens is bolted to my M10. I love it when I get that wonky red-ring flare. So marvellous! Great review, Ben!
Love this review! That’s everything I look for in a lens. Like the difference of sharpness but with unique character.
Solid man. Make me want to upgrade my Summicron.
here i am going back and forth between a 35 or 50 for my first lens. the question i have now after watching this is 50 lux or the cron?
i agree completely with you, i will fly back to germany next year after corona problems and will buy one ... i think it is a really special lens and must have for a Leica Photographer
AMAZING content! Always wanted to try this lens but had doubt on my m2 and m7. It performs so well on film! Great photos!
Very interesting. I use a 50 mm Summicron, but I'm curious to try this too.
Just depends on if you want/need that extra stop. I'm sure the Summicron is equal in most areas.
@@benjhaisch The 50Lux is actually a FLE APO lens. The summicron is not
Great video! I totally agree with you. I use the 50mm Summilux for around 90 percent of my pictures. It‘s basically glued to my M240. 📷✌🏻
it's always on my M240 unless I put it on my M2/M6 haha
I traded in three Leica M lenses to get the 50 Summilux. I agree it's not the sharpest lens you can find but I love the images that I get out of them.
Love the old-skool pull-out lens hood - it brings back memories...
Have had the same lens for nearly five years - you are spot on in your great review :-)
Beautiful photos! But Good Grief!, whence came this current TH-camr fetish for having the "background" music in competition with the information being conveyed?
I have a Leitz Canada 50mm f/2 Summicron-M on my M10. I don't need the extra stop (though it actually goes to f/1.7, so I do get a half-stop more than the nominal f/2) and I like the light weight and compact size: the combo slots neatly into the center console of my F-150. Were I in your line of work, I probably would go for the Summilux or even the Noctilux.
Thanks for the video. I've subscribed.
With respect, if you were shooting weddings with a Leica you would not go with the Noc. Ask me how I know....
Thanks for the nice review. In practice - how do you make sure, that your subject is in focus, when the DOF is so shallow?
our favorite lens for weddings!
loved the video!! 50 mm is definitely a focal length to invest in. I would like to see more videos on Leica lenses
Fabulous, inspiring images. Just picked up the black chrome version and am eagerly awaiting its arrival.
Yep this is real Pro lens and sharp! Unlike other guy who wants to sell his lens after a couple of film rolls, your shots are sharp and good colour! I guess photographer`s skill is also needed for this lens to shine!
Great video and awesome b-roll 👌🏼
Thank you!
Great video! It’s my favorite lens for any system. I use it a lot on my M240 and sometimes on my Nikon Z6. I have ordered the SL2-S today and I can not wait to shoot the 50mm on the new camera.
Greetings from Austria
Nice! It indeed looks like Medium format. Your shots with this lens are amazing. Do you usually shoot it wide open or close it down a bit for better micro contrast and to get that MF look? I only own non-ASPH lenses because most of them are too clinical, but somehow this lux and also the lux 35mm hold a good balance between sharpness and unique rendering. Another one I thought had this balance pinned down was the Summicron 28mm f2.
I'm thinking about this lens for my R6 and street photography. There's a lot of lenses available that will no doubt be nearly as good, for much less money. What to do, what to do...
Wow!! Great video! I just upgraded from a micro four thirds to a full frame digital camera, and now I think maybe I should have invested in a high-end lens. But ... naw, I need (want) the full frame camera AND I need (definitely need) great lenses for both the micro four thirds & full frame! I don't have the m-mount, so I can't get this exact lens, but you've given me a lot to think about. Again, great video! Thank you!!
If you have a Mirrorless you can adapt Leica m Mount
@@Chris-ey7zy really? I'll have to check that out! Thank you!
This is kinda along the lines of how I feel about the Fujifilm XF 35mm f1.4. It just has some characteristics that are hard to describe, that produce such special results. Now, of course, we’re talking about a completely different price range, haha, but from what I’ve experienced as a photographer I think that lens is how I can relate to what you’re saying about the Leica.
Beni HI I have using the pre-asph. for 30 years. I can.t let this lens go for its character, so i Understand. I am an old dude 70 plus. i shoot now digital M9, M typ 240. If I lose or break this lens Wow.. I know I can find something on ebay but. the 50mm f 1.4 summilulx- M. wow.
Another great episode!
Hi Benj, I keep coming back to this video just for inspiration and I'm wondering now that the new 50 Summilux had come out will you be interested in testing it out and reviewing it, and possibly upgrading to the new one? Thanks!
Hey thanks! The extra aperture blades and MFD would be great, but it’s the same optically, so I don’t see a reason for me to pay the premium :)
Thank you for this great video. Now I know for what to save money.😎
Good lens for wedding for sure. But owning both lenses, I must confess that for general photography and almost anything I prefer the Summilux pre Asph V3, which is a Mandler pure marvella....
I agree on this lens. Buy used for sure as we did because it is worth owning, but not at the new cost.
I really love that ring flare. Is it easy to induce or do you need a really strong light source? Is this Summilux the latest version?
Benj! Thanks for sharing so much, you’re one of my biggest inspirations in photography. Now I’m trying to figure out how to sell a kidney to buy this Summilux haha. Question: I’ve always been in the Canon system and recently picked up the EOS R which opens up new lens adapting options. I’m curious if you’ve ever adapted the Summilux to the R and if so, what your thoughts are? I can’t help but think that this lens paired with the upcoming R5 would be an amazing combination.
So beautiful photos 😍😍😍
I'm looking into getting a different camera to replace my FF Sony SLT and I'm a bit torn. I don't think I can get into leica M with range finders (since I never used them and I don't find the ergonomics particularly appealing) and I'm not sure something like SL mount cameras are a good match for leica M lenses. But from what I'm seeing, none of the other lenses match the depth of rendering of leica lenses.
very nice review with outstanding photos!
Love all the picture that u took !
Congratulations Benj. 10000!!! Cool
Hey thanks so much!
Benj, I’m a photography enthusiast who has just jumped from Fujifilm to Leica. I’m on the fence and it yours and Matt Osborne’s fault. I find that you have both made compelling arguments for the Leica 50mm lens. Matt for the Noctilux 50mm f1.0 and you for the Leica Summilux 50mm f1.4. Is the noctilux stopped down to 1.4 and more equal in IQ as your beloved Summilux 50 1.4? Help me on this one.
Thank you and continued happiness and success to you and yours.
Chaps
Hey! I’ve only taken a few shots on a Noctilux over the years and never on the f/1 version. I’d assume the Summilux ASPH would be superior as it’s more modern and apparently is an APO lens, but I couldn’t tell you for sure without comparing the two.
@@benjhaisch Thank you for sharing your insight. Much appreciated. I’ve decided to save up for the 21 3.4, 35 f2, & 50 1.4. I already own the APO 75 & 90 f2’s. Continued happiness and success to you and yours.
Beautiful photos as usual. Sorry to be a bore but...where did you get the wooden shutter button and hot shoe cover?
Love your wedding shots
Reminds me of the Nikon 58mm 1.4g with that balance of everything with character producing a unique look
I've never used it, but have heard so much about that lens from my Nikon friends over the years too.
Benj, do you use ND-filters with this lens? Most of your wedding pictures seem like they were shot wide open at daylight or golden hour. Also, have you tried the 35mm FLE? How do 35mm and 50mm fit into your wedding photographer kit?
Perfect lens, perfect pictures.
Your pictures are amazing! Love that focal length.
Wonderful pictures!
Hi is the NOCTILUX-M 50 F/1.2 ASPH is better than the SUMMILUX-M 50MM F/1.4 ASPH ? Any advantages of the Summilux ?
Lux 50 is the most versatile 50mm ever made buy Leica. For Peter Karbe (Head of lens design at Leica's) it's the optimum : smaller than the Noctilux. Faster than the Apo Summicron. It's also my favorite lens with witch I make ⅔ of my pictures (the other ⅓ is with an Elmarit 28). I should point out that the ultimate pleasure is Lux 50 + M camera, not Lux adapted to an other brand.
What do you think of the regular Summicron 50mm v5?
Great work and excellent review!!
Your image is so beautiful. Love it
Interesting review in parts, your comments about the 50mm not being a long or wide angle lens are a bit funny though. The 50mm is standard because it more closely represents our natural angle of view.
Anyway, nice review overall.
I'd love to do a smackdown with my Zuiko 50mm f1.4 vs your 50mm Summilux
Your compositions are always so good!
Hey thanks!
What do you think of the type 5 summicron 50mm non aspherical
Have you ever considered the Voigtlander Nokton 50mm f/1.2? I’ve heard it performs extremely close to the Summilux.
I owned the Summilux since before the Nokton was announced, so I haven’t. I’ve shot a lot of Voigtlander lenses that are great, but none that have that special feel that I get from the Lux. Obviously a massive price difference though, so I probably would have tried it a few years ago if this was available.
Benj, how much of the viewfinder does this lens block? Thank you.
It's great sharing thanks!
I have question that how you shoot motion object with f1.4 in m system? any tips?
This was the first lense recommended by my friend when I finally entered the world of Leica. He said I should start practicing rangefinder techniques on this one. I’ve been wanting to buy the 35mm 1.4 not because I am dissatisfied with this one but only because I don’t have that one. Then again there are so many that I don’t have. I was told to master this one first before buying a new one.