Hi Nigel. FYI the Hampshire (UK) photographer, Mike Browne (who also has a long-established high-sub YT channel) has led workshops out there and published several vids on his channel about that location. All the best.
Do go Nigel. It is a beautiful country and very cheap. I was least impressed by Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) but that was all 11 years ago. I'd love to go back.
James, you need to stop apologising for having a job that many of us would absolutely die for. Leica, Sony, Fujifilm... Who cares. As long as the images are as stunning as those that come from your lens, it really doesn't matter mate. Keep on doing what you do 👍
One of the things I appreciate a lot about your videos (apart from the extremely high quality of your photos of course) is how candid and down to earth you are. "curiosity got the better of me so I bought one, which sounds incredibly blasé, but the thing about TH-cam is it's often profitable to buy cameras". The second part of that sentence is what makes you a more likeable person than the vast majority of photographers on this platform. So thanks for that
You mentioned that you might make a video about youtube as a business and please do, it's a very interesting topic, and it would be a nice insight to how complicated it actually is to make these videos. I'd love to see that video! Also, great shots in this one and the video looks fantastic as well. Cheers!
FINALLY. Someone specifically points out that manual focus is the real magic trick of this lens. Any other setup requires a lens swap to jump between zoning at F8 and AF at F1.7. Plus, it has macro! That's the true brilliance of the setup, imo. It's clearly a travel/street camera with a fixed lens, yet that fixed lens provides the versatility of 2 to 3 lenses on other systems.
@@SourPlanet The image quality is outstanding, much more than just sharp. There are many lenses that are sharp edge-to-edge wide open. Much less that are as well corrected as this true APO. And even less that still manage to retain some character and 3D pop. Very similar to the great 50mm Voigtländer APO Lanthar.
My Q3 43 is everything I expected it to be. It’s not a working tool and wasn’t bought as such. It’s more an everyday carry and travel camera which I will be using rather than lugging my Z8’s around. Zone focusing and hyperfocal focusing pretty much negate the need for AF which will be relegated to backup status and both are a doddle with the lens. The lens quality is outstanding in every way and the focal length is perfect. Your images especially those in the rice paper workshop are great and demonstrate just how good the 43mm lens is for documentary photography. I hope I get the opportunity to shoot something similar when I travel to Japan next year. Have fun and grow into it, it took a while for me to love the Q2 Monochrom which is another incredible camera but very niche. One last note, the ergonomics work for me as someone with larger hands - other compacts I could never use simply because of the form factor.
I definitely agree with your comments… it’s an amazing companion camera to a system like a Z8 if you have the resources. On the other hand if you only have the budget for one camera, I would favor a system camera with interchangeable lenses. I have an R5 and hope to pick up a Q2 M or M10 M in the future!
@@elliotresnick5433 Totally. A Canon EF 40mm f2.8 is also a very sharp 43mm lens and about as big as a normal lens even with the adapter included. I toss it on an R6 and shoot. Good for everything including my wildlife photography and also for lowlight, dynamic range, image stabilizer, and ergonomic. Just works.
If there's ANY camera I still have GAS heavily about it's the Q3 43. So glad you shared more thoughts and snaps from it, James. This would be my "sell all your others" camera, such as it is. I'm only a hobbyist, so no one would care. But what a treat. Great coverage and thoughts. Thanks for your point of view.
@@ChrisBrogan agree! This is the review I really needed. I keep obsessing on the Q3 but don't need it at all, in any way. I have so much wonderful gear that does the job just as well, sometimes better. I have to admit that the design of the camera itself is really attractive to me. But, as James said, that makes sense too - my sports car is all about design, pure form over function... and I love it. Ugh, I still want the Q3. But this video probably pushed me away from it for good.
@@eastbaystreet1242honestly just get a 40mm and stick it on your main camera. On an R6 with the EF40mm 2.8 is the same size as a regular 50mm lens and it's a true 43mm and sharper than the 35 and 50mm's at the same f2.8 aperture. Some vignette though, I got a Tamron f1.8 with the image stabilizer to get much less vignette and the.. image stabilizer for blue hour landscape stuff.
@@mikafoxx2717 Yes, I do count on my array of F lenses for my older Nikons, and my 40mm Z lens for the Z9 to do what you are saying. But I did end up splitting the difference on the Leica between buying or not buying the Q3... I bought a fair priced Q2 which covers the "small, extremely high quality point and shoot with amazing glass" need, without going full-on new Q3 money.
But I genuinely think it’s true. Most cameras don’t generate opinions of any sort, but lots of photographers have opinions (good and bad) about these things.
@@JamesPopsysPhotoOn the subject of algorithms, why do I now think that TH-cam is going to feed me a Rory Sutherland video explaining the marketing genius of selling a £6k camera that requires that you also buy a £200 thumb grip to correct the ergonomics?
It's only hated by people who have never seen it let alone used it - like most Leica cameras - pro here 35 yrs in the game - we use many cameras - this one is one of our favorites - it just does everything - we use alongside our SL3 and our 907x - it just works
@@nelsonclub7722 You are correct in my opinion . I think envy is a powerful negative . I started photography in the early 60 ‘s . Now I have Q 3 for a couple of months and it is a joy …and the sharpest images I have ever had anything to with :) Just worth the money
myeah, it's usually Sony users. They don't know what's good. Most of them are beginners and believe that flagship performance defines the whole system and buying cheap used lower-end Sony gear compensates for their insecurities.
myeah, it's usually Sony users. They don't know what's good. Most of them are beginners and believe that flagship performance defines the whole system and buying cheap used lower-end Sony gear compensates for their insecurities.
@@janfrosty3392 you should make a youtube video to show this... but you won't because you can't find a lens with apochromatic abberation correction in other brands
Some cracking photos! I bought this camera for three reasons. 1. The lens 2. The lens 3. The lens. I absolutely love it and, together with my Q2, I don’t need any more kit. At all. Won’t suit everyone but I’m sorted.
Leica makes niche cameras and that's their strength. I previously owned an M8. It had so many limitations, but it's also the favorite camera I've ever owned. I think the same can be said for the Q. These cameras require more from the photographer, which causes frustration at times, but also a real pleasure to use. Thanks for sharing!
I won't ever have either Q3 model, for work or play, but I did just order a 40mm Voigtlander lens for my Df. Call me old fashioned, or just plain old for that matter. But my wife and I have been enjoying the heck out of your book. It's a marvel and a joy. Thanks much.
I think you hit the nail on the head perfectly when you used the word ‘toy’ to describe the camera. From your description of the issues you found it sounds like it’s intended for people who drive a flash car, wear designer label clothing and want the Leica label on their camera as it fits their personal image of themselves. If I could afford to spend that amount of money on a camera I’d want it to be the best of the best with no compromises.
Keep consoling yourself. I completely don’t fit your stereotype and love my Q3. I’ve been into to photography for long enough to appreciate how good it is.
I think the sports car description is better than the toy. I just bought a 43 as a retirement present to myself. It was a serious financial decision for me I assure you! I’ve only taken 30 or 40 photos with it so it’s unfair to comment really, but for sure as James says, it’s notably behind my Sony 7Rv in a number of areas. But it truly has a special feel about it and it does seem to slow you down and make you think about composition. Time will tell but I think I’m going to love this sports car camera, even if it gives up practicality for thrills. Like a good sports car too, it’s light! Half the weight of my Sony with a GM 50 lens. That’s a winner. The one real negative are the accessories, which are obscenely priced. If you want to fit a protective filter to the lens, which I do, you need a different lens hood, which Leica will sell you for $420 in Australia. The thumb grip is another $420. But, there is a mob called Haoge who will sell you both for $100. The quality fits in perfectly. All the reviews tell me it’s hard to pick the difference with the lens hood and I believe that.
@@delthomas-n4m So you are just chasing spec sheets? The objectively best camera on paper will be the subjectively best camera only for a tiny fraction of photographers. Spend the money on the tool that fits you best, not on the one that is best for the average person. Nobody cares about your camera once the photo is printed. What a dumb comment.
JESUS... it's the First time that i look at your "reportage" style... Man... It's amazing, i love the shot, the story, the post etc .. i really enjoyed and i Hope to see more "human" close shot like this in your Channel because you are vert talented! Keep going i Will follow you 💪
I was worried the way he kept gesturing with the camera into the traffic while looking away. It looked close enough for someone to get hit / hit him just by accident.
I was toning the same thing. He needs a camera clutch and wrist strap from PD. I use them for my cameras for that reason and to stop dogs from knocking the camera out of my hands when they run by.
I mean , It should not be compared to any other camera, Although some are digital, the feeling and experience is like shooting with film. totally agreed that the best experience is to shoot & focus manually. Love my q343.
Great video! Always a pleasure to watch! I simply wonder why most TH-camrs have a problem with single card slot cameras. What’s unprofessional about the Q3 isn’t the physical design of the camera, but a flaw in a user workflow, such as not backing up daily. Anyone using a camera professionally would back up at least once a day. The size of the camera vs its capabilities makes it very hard to complain about a lack of extra card slot or internal storage. Let’s also remember that most commonly used cinema cameras today only record to one card at a time. We should invest in Sony Tough cards or Angelbird and sleep easy at night. Cheers, and thanks again!
Got my book last week. Amazing. Seeing my name in the back was too cool! Also, I jumped on the Q3 43 as soon as it was announced. I love the camera. The main thing I've learned... If there's more than two people, go with single point auto focus. Makes the experience much better. Also, I got a leather case with a small grip on Etsy. I recommend that in addition to the thump support. Cheers!
Been watching you for quite some time now, please don’t take this the wrong way but I think i’ve just seen some of my favourite images of yours in this video. Maybe it’s just my taste but I believe it’s noticeable how much you enjoy this focal length. 👏
In my experience, holding these cameras is like holding a flat bar of soap. Even a bit slippery with a RRS grip. However, with a Leica grip and a finger loop ergonomics improve 100%. On the Q3s a Leica grip allows for wireless charging.
That's nuts, turned on, and I'm like why are you on the Red River bridge, literally on the route In used to commute on years back. It literally threw me back in my seat. Not what I was expecting. Never did I think you'd find yourself in Hanoi. Funnily enough, it was where I bought my very first DSLR camera and really got into photography.
felt the exact same way because my family lives on the river and every time i visit i take that bridge! also the lake he sat at is where i used to go for morning runs every single day!
The village photos are moving. The images were able to transfer strong emotions. I use my Q2 with a mix of autofocus and manual focus. For me the most important part of the camera is the optics and what one can do with it. The Q optics are extremely good for my personal taste. I don't have an M camera, but the main advantage there is manual focus with a large range of different lenses. There is the mix between perfection and imperfection. The Q gives a taste of that, but with a fixed lens. In the end, what counts, is the joy one gets from the images AND from going out and seeing the world.
Very interesting to see you shoot with people as a major element in your photo - your style is still there as well. Very few landscape or scape shooters can make convincing 'street' shots.
Finally got my x100vi last week, so Leica urge is quenched for now, but I was happy to know more about it. More fascinating to me now is seeing other photographers I have followed for years just discovering a city I have been photographing for almost a decade. Really looking forward to more of your Hanoi, James 😊
Thanks James - wonderful images (that light/atmosphere!) and a great first impressions precis. I now want to visit Vietnam and will hold off on that Q3 43 order.......I sold my Q3 for many of the reasons you've mentioned and was tempted back by the lure of a focal length that I prefer. But you've reminded me again of many of the reasons that I didn't get along with the Q3, issues that remain with this camera.
Nice to see someone give a realistic opinion of one of these, rather than gushing and blithering. There's a certain sort of person for whom it's worth the blisters, and their usually found airing their opinions at photography clubs.
His sports car analogy was spot on. I have spent huge money on sports cars over the years, but they have been a lot of fun and I can afford it. So why not? My children are well cared for after I am gone and the very hot place where I am probably going isn't likely to accept my cash bribes.
a question, since you mention photography clubs: I was thinking of finding one since I am new to town and need to expand my horizons, but I have this concern that the club members won't be the open-minded folks I see on TH-cam, but will in fact be judgmental or cliquey. Any thoughts on that? Thanks!
@@eastbaystreet1242 luck of the draw; many will be very cliquey and a few will be open minded, and some will be a mix. Only way to know is to go along to the ones in convenient reach and see if you like them.
Such a great place to photograph. Also in your talking head shots, I am allways drawn to the small island with temple of something framed by the tree branches
Very honest first thoughts. No joystick or decent grip would drive me mad. That said the pics do look magical James, but is that just the light mmm. Vietnam looks fab btw.
Broooooo... I'm loving your Vietnam imagery/photos. I can't wait until my next trip back (exactly a year from now). Your style suits Vietnam so well. It looks good on you.
Hi James, I just found your channel, absolutely love it, and therefore started binge watching your videos. Thank you! It is probably because my algorithm changed watching a lot of Leica content lately as I’m currently thinking about minimising my setup moving from Fuji to Leica . I love the images you produced with the Q2, really like those Leica colours and deep blacks. I’m looking forward to your next videos!
Well, I actually have one, and I really don't mind a blister or two! But, the key point here is that the target buyer is essentially the older M rangefinder user who is now struggling with M manual focusing, the sheer weight of the M cameras, and the lack of image stabilisation - myself included! Never ever thought Leica would do a Q with a 43mm lens, as it clearly competes with their classic M / 35mm combination, so it seems to me that Leica are finally and quietly reinventing in order to hang onto their generally older users. You don't really mention how amazingly light they are, or how little post processing is required - the lens is absolutely outstanding and colour rendition is very much improved (no M11 magenta cast!), consequently my images normally require very little or no sharpening at all. Not only that you can crop away to your heart's content, so the 43mm lens can be used like a 90mm lens - incredible versatility. The (kinda!) macro mode is also superb and so easy to select. I use Leica's own grip which hugely improves the day-to-day ergonomics. What an absolute joy it is to happily go out every day with just one camera, and just one lens! The A7RV is gathering dust! Cheers, Steve.
I`m an older M user :) Mid `70`s been using them (along with Canon and Sony at times) for 40 years. Still no problem with RF focussing but this 43 is on my list as an alternative. The pictures on this vid are some of the best I`ve seen for colour and I`ve watched every episode.
I think I’m drifting back to the 28mm Q3. A bit more usable than the 43mm. 🏴I’m a 35-40mm street photographer so the Q3 43 would be the choice for me; you would think but… It’s grey rather than black, and it’s even more expensive than the Q3 too! I also used to do street with a GRIIIX (and an XF10) back in the day so got used to that too.
I remember the video you made about the Sony A7R5 where you said the technology was too much. This is the problem with us photographers… we flip flop on what is important to us based on what we are currently shooting. I own the Leica Q3 28mm and a Sony system and my main camera is a Sony A7R3 (second body is A7R2). I would say the AF is somewhere in-between the 2 - but I don’t care. If anything I use my Leica like my Nikon FA film camera from 1983… it is about being fun to use… slowing the process down… actually making it feel like I make the photo… not the camera. It’s very satisfying for what it is (and my keeper rate is better). The AF is good enough (especially for the 28mm focal length). To use your car analogy - do you want a practical minivan with all latest in parking features, screens, cruise control, etc. or do you want a classic car that has some fairly modern tech like good brakes, ok AC - but does not break down all the time. The answer is both… but I am going to smile more while using the “classic”.
Enjoy your time in Hanoi ! Regardless the camera model the light there is incredible (thanks to the fog). I encourage you to reiterate the trip you did to small comunities in the countryside, these are memories i cherish. Thanks for the nostalgia burst 🙌
Thank you for your honest review. Also some of the best photography I have seen you take. Location and subject matter is everything. Off to Cambodia in a couple of months. Leaving the Z8 at home and taking my OM-1 and my Ricoh GR3x. I will be doing wildlife and macro as well as street and landscape so the micro 4/3 makes sense. I love the Panasonic 50mm F1 .4 and the Olympus 12-40mm f2.8. my Z glass is too heavy to carry about with snorkeling gear etc.
Very nice pictures. I don't think that I could "hate" a camera unless it's completely unreliable when I want to use it personally. Everybody has a different taste about the ideal tool - for me the tool does not really matter unless it is highly specialized equipment with unique features. Enjoy the Q3 43 🙂
Liked this video a lot. I ‘m glad you shared your honest opinion of this camera. I’d like to see stills compared to Sony you had there. The Lecia shots looked good but may be very frustrating if auto focus fails on $6k camera for me. Always intrigued by Leica Q cameras but wasn’t sure I would be happy after using them after using z 9 or canon d2x mark ii. The size is appealing for travel but negated if you need two cameras. Your insight always welcome. Thanks
Tell me what you really think of the Leica 🤣 James , the shots especially the indoor and low light shots are FABULOUS ! Love the atmosphere…awesome my friend!!!!
00:46 Just holding my breath that a passing rider doesn't relieve James of his tempting Leica offering :O ! I have a really small light Pentax APS-C DSLR from 2003, with a 28mm Pentax prime permanently on it now, which also works out as a 43mm equivalent on that sensor crop. I think maybe the resolution is ..errr.. a ..'tad' lower than the Q3 43 ;) I really like using that combo on a wriststrap though.
That shot behind you over the hazy water with the branch , couldn't stop looking at it. Great shots you got though of Vietnam and those small communities and there way of life
Wow, not my experience at all. I thought the AF was snappy and much better than the Q2 and worked really well on the street. Love the ergonomics, fits well in the hand with a grip, phenomenal image quality, really quality camera. I took this camera all over Ireland for a month doing portraits and darn near everything else, including landscape, and it was absolutely a blast to shoot and could definitely do professional work with it. Strange. Who needs two card slots?
You pay for the lens really and get the body as a freebie. I have a Q2 and agree with many of your comments except I love the Leica handgrip. I’ve got most of the accessories because they came with my 007 special edition of 250 made for the world. Also has a rather nice British made leather case. Price was not an issue as I’m an 007 collector, also having a D-Lux7 007 edition which is one of 1962 made and my phone number ends in 007. Sad, I know. Neither are my favourite cameras as it happens. That accolade goes jointly to my Lumix GX80 and E-M1 MkII. Even my Lumix G9 is technically a better camera than the Leica in many ways. However, the Q camera, and indeed the D-Lux7 [Lumix LX100 MkII] are very satisfying cameras to actually use and the menu system of the Q2 and Q3 is simplicity itself and encourages thought about composition and subject matter rather than camera functions and too many adjustments. A sort of old fashioned camera with emphasis on lens adjustment.
You’ve reminded me that the LX100 was in the same vein. Being a comparatively large sensor in a small body. I bought one for my Dad. It’s on a shelf somewhere because he always has an iPhone in his pocket.
@@adamaufdencamp5080 I have an iPhone 15Pro always with me also and use it probably as much as any other camera. However I’m seldom without a dedicated camera when out and about, as I just prefer using them, especially in low light, great as the phone camera now is.
@@hedydd2Same for me. Sometimes I carry more than one dedicated camera. But not being ambidextrous, I don’t do that too often. I tend to be a maximalist in that if I ever take a photo I like with an iPhone, I’m upset that I didn’t use a dedicated camera. Likewise, if I take a photo I like with my 40mm f/2, I can’t help but wonder if I should have used my 35 f/1.8 or my 50mm f/1.2. When Nikon finally produces a Z mount 28 f/1.4 and a 35 f/1.2 I will assuredly never be able to leave the house with just one lens. My Lightroom catalog has averaged over 20k photos since about 2003. Year to date for ‘24, I’ve added 60k to my library. My friends and family must believe I was born with a camera fused to my hand. Thankfully, when I’m done with a camera I give it away or sell it. I’m not sentimental about equipment. Only the photos I’ve snapped with them.
A D850 is a great camera. And I agree that the newer gen Z autofocus is usefully better. I’m not certain I would say that about the earlier Z bodies, except for the more complete coverage of the frame with autofocus sensors. I’d weigh the entire cost of switching before I dumped a D850. You’ve got a very competent camera that when you replace it might also sway you to begin buying a raft of new lenses.
Love the idea, but for my money I think I'd prefer one of these made by anyone else that isn't Leica or Fujifilm. I'm not a fan of unreliable AF, since getting that bit out of the way allows me to be a bit more presesnt in the composition and preemptive aspects of photography. That said, I have a Ricoh GR III so maybe I'm just pretending that I need Canon to make a 40mm fixed lens full frame compact in hopes that they finally do it. 🤔
I had a Q2 monochrome and sold it because the ergonomics were very bad and too heavy. Autofocus is also bad for this price level. I heard quite some people complain about reliability issues , freezing and so on.
Great preview-review 😁 totally agree with your thoughts, due to the more "playful" character of the 43 I also tend to grab it more often and the lens is great (perfect bigger brother from another mother to the GRIIIx, if pocketabillity isn't paramount). Regarding the/a grip, I got the IDSworks one, if you haven't checked it out, I quite like it. Not too much bulk added or style dimished with the black aluminium one, in my opinion. Cheers!
Had the chance to buy it, but after checking it out, I turned it down for two reasons. 1: When in tracking mode, images looks unsharp in the viewfinder when pressing the shutter release button half way down. 2: When in tracking mode, you can't see your chosen exposure in the viewfinder when you press the shutter release button half way down because the camera for some stupid reason needs an average exposure to focus. This is so far out and something I haven't experienced on any other brand. This is so ridiculous and it seems like the processor in the camera can't cope with the sensor size.
My conclusion from this video is that....... I want to go to Vietnam....
Same!
Hi Nigel. FYI the Hampshire (UK) photographer, Mike Browne (who also has a long-established high-sub YT channel) has led workshops out there and published several vids on his channel about that location. All the best.
I am Aussie so SE Asia is kind of on our doorstep and Vietnam is my favourite country in the region. And not only as a photographer
Do go Nigel. It is a beautiful country and very cheap. I was least impressed by Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) but that was all 11 years ago. I'd love to go back.
Amazing place, great food
James, you need to stop apologising for having a job that many of us would absolutely die for. Leica, Sony, Fujifilm... Who cares. As long as the images are as stunning as those that come from your lens, it really doesn't matter mate.
Keep on doing what you do
👍
One of the things I appreciate a lot about your videos (apart from the extremely high quality of your photos of course) is how candid and down to earth you are. "curiosity got the better of me so I bought one, which sounds incredibly blasé, but the thing about TH-cam is it's often profitable to buy cameras". The second part of that sentence is what makes you a more likeable person than the vast majority of photographers on this platform. So thanks for that
The edits and colors on those photos of the rice paper making are incredible.
And no one ever saw that new Hasselblad ever again. :D
He’s sold it, well done Hasselblad
I wonder if you get some cash with your new Leica from MPB when you send them you Hasselblad? 😂
Used it in the video before this one…🙂
Dude those photos are INCREDIBLE
You mentioned that you might make a video about youtube as a business and please do, it's a very interesting topic, and it would be a nice insight to how complicated it actually is to make these videos. I'd love to see that video! Also, great shots in this one and the video looks fantastic as well. Cheers!
FINALLY. Someone specifically points out that manual focus is the real magic trick of this lens. Any other setup requires a lens swap to jump between zoning at F8 and AF at F1.7. Plus, it has macro! That's the true brilliance of the setup, imo. It's clearly a travel/street camera with a fixed lens, yet that fixed lens provides the versatility of 2 to 3 lenses on other systems.
manual focus...seriously
@@SourPlanet The image quality is outstanding, much more than just sharp. There are many lenses that are sharp edge-to-edge wide open.
Much less that are as well corrected as this true APO. And even less that still manage to retain some character and 3D pop.
Very similar to the great 50mm Voigtländer APO Lanthar.
@RegrinderAlert Did you mean to respond to me? I wasn't calling into question the lens, which is a Summilux; and therefore top class.
@@SourPlanet Just supporting your sentiment. But the 43 is a APO-Summicron and f/2
@@RegrinderAlert Ah yes, correct. I keep forgetting it's F2.
Stunning images. Especially love the rice paper village shots.
My Q3 43 is everything I expected it to be. It’s not a working tool and wasn’t bought as such. It’s more an everyday carry and travel camera which I will be using rather than lugging my Z8’s around. Zone focusing and hyperfocal focusing pretty much negate the need for AF which will be relegated to backup status and both are a doddle with the lens. The lens quality is outstanding in every way and the focal length is perfect. Your images especially those in the rice paper workshop are great and demonstrate just how good the 43mm lens is for documentary photography. I hope I get the opportunity to shoot something similar when I travel to Japan next year. Have fun and grow into it, it took a while for me to love the Q2 Monochrom which is another incredible camera but very niche. One last note, the ergonomics work for me as someone with larger hands - other compacts I could never use simply because of the form factor.
I definitely agree with your comments… it’s an amazing companion camera to a system like a Z8 if you have the resources. On the other hand if you only have the budget for one camera, I would favor a system camera with interchangeable lenses. I have an R5 and hope to pick up a Q2 M or M10 M in the future!
@@elliotresnick5433
Totally. A Canon EF 40mm f2.8 is also a very sharp 43mm lens and about as big as a normal lens even with the adapter included. I toss it on an R6 and shoot. Good for everything including my wildlife photography and also for lowlight, dynamic range, image stabilizer, and ergonomic. Just works.
@@mikafoxx2717 were you mentioned that EF lenses because it’s focal length is similar to the Q3 43?
@elliotresnick5433 the EF 40mm is a 43mm, that's all I'm saying. Excellent lens for the dollars.
Thanks for addressing the cost issue and how it’s a different dynamic for your case.
Thank you for making me like my Canon more.
If there's ANY camera I still have GAS heavily about it's the Q3 43. So glad you shared more thoughts and snaps from it, James. This would be my "sell all your others" camera, such as it is. I'm only a hobbyist, so no one would care. But what a treat.
Great coverage and thoughts. Thanks for your point of view.
The price of GAS keeps going up year after year, and I'm not talking about petrol...
@spidersj12 agreed. But I do like how James probably kept me from buying this. Because it sure wasn't a glowing review.
@@ChrisBrogan agree! This is the review I really needed. I keep obsessing on the Q3 but don't need it at all, in any way. I have so much wonderful gear that does the job just as well, sometimes better. I have to admit that the design of the camera itself is really attractive to me. But, as James said, that makes sense too - my sports car is all about design, pure form over function... and I love it. Ugh, I still want the Q3. But this video probably pushed me away from it for good.
@@eastbaystreet1242honestly just get a 40mm and stick it on your main camera. On an R6 with the EF40mm 2.8 is the same size as a regular 50mm lens and it's a true 43mm and sharper than the 35 and 50mm's at the same f2.8 aperture. Some vignette though, I got a Tamron f1.8 with the image stabilizer to get much less vignette and the.. image stabilizer for blue hour landscape stuff.
@@mikafoxx2717 Yes, I do count on my array of F lenses for my older Nikons, and my 40mm Z lens for the Z9 to do what you are saying. But I did end up splitting the difference on the Leica between buying or not buying the Q3... I bought a fair priced Q2 which covers the "small, extremely high quality point and shoot with amazing glass" need, without going full-on new Q3 money.
This is the sad state of a previously well-loved and respected brand.
My copy of Human Nature arrived yesterday, James. It's fantastic! Well done!
James you are my fav TH-cam photographer, but the title of this video again, it’s nuts, guess it’s feeding the algorithm
But I genuinely think it’s true. Most cameras don’t generate opinions of any sort, but lots of photographers have opinions (good and bad) about these things.
@@JamesPopsysPhotoOn the subject of algorithms, why do I now think that TH-cam is going to feed me a Rory Sutherland video explaining the marketing genius of selling a £6k camera that requires that you also buy a £200 thumb grip to correct the ergonomics?
It's only hated by people who have never seen it let alone used it - like most Leica cameras - pro here 35 yrs in the game - we use many cameras - this one is one of our favorites - it just does everything - we use alongside our SL3 and our 907x - it just works
@@nelsonclub7722 You are correct in my opinion . I think envy is a powerful negative . I started photography in the early 60 ‘s . Now I have Q 3 for a couple of months and it is a joy …and the sharpest images I have ever had anything to with :)
Just worth the money
myeah, it's usually Sony users. They don't know what's good. Most of them are beginners and believe that flagship performance defines the whole system and buying cheap used lower-end Sony gear compensates for their insecurities.
myeah, it's usually Sony users. They don't know what's good. Most of them are beginners and believe that flagship performance defines the whole system and buying cheap used lower-end Sony gear compensates for their insecurities.
Got give credit to those lenses, the stats dont say much, but the glasses are very exotic.
This camera has produced some of your best shots.
any other camera brand would do the same IMHO
@@janfrosty3392 you should make a youtube video to show this... but you won't because you can't find a lens with apochromatic abberation correction in other brands
Love the q cameras, but the quality pf the shots was probably more due to James and Vietnam than the camera
@@CianMcsweeney100% agree.
@@CianMcsweeneyfor sure. If he brought the Ricoh griiix and said it was the Q. No one would know.
Kudos for the honesty about youtube makes you buy and talk about cameras
Some cracking photos! I bought this camera for three reasons. 1. The lens 2. The lens 3. The lens. I absolutely love it and, together with my Q2, I don’t need any more kit. At all. Won’t suit everyone but I’m sorted.
Leica makes niche cameras and that's their strength. I previously owned an M8. It had so many limitations, but it's also the favorite camera I've ever owned. I think the same can be said for the Q. These cameras require more from the photographer, which causes frustration at times, but also a real pleasure to use. Thanks for sharing!
That brief moment of silence while reliving the 205 quid for the thumbrest...that was relatable and dramatic af.
I won't ever have either Q3 model, for work or play, but I did just order a 40mm Voigtlander lens for my Df. Call me old fashioned, or just plain old for that matter. But my wife and I have been enjoying the heck out of your book. It's a marvel and a joy. Thanks much.
I feel like you are right from the beginning to the end
...still want one lol
I think you hit the nail on the head perfectly when you used the word ‘toy’ to describe the camera. From your description of the issues you found it sounds like it’s intended for people who drive a flash car, wear designer label clothing and want the Leica label on their camera as it fits their personal image of themselves. If I could afford to spend that amount of money on a camera I’d want it to be the best of the best with no compromises.
Keep consoling yourself. I completely don’t fit your stereotype and love my Q3. I’ve been into to photography for long enough to appreciate how good it is.
Do you walk a bit one sided with that massive chip on your shoulder? 😂
I think the sports car description is better than the toy. I just bought a 43 as a retirement present to myself. It was a serious financial decision for me I assure you! I’ve only taken 30 or 40 photos with it so it’s unfair to comment really, but for sure as James says, it’s notably behind my Sony 7Rv in a number of areas.
But it truly has a special feel about it and it does seem to slow you down and make you think about composition. Time will tell but I think I’m going to love this sports car camera, even if it gives up practicality for thrills.
Like a good sports car too, it’s light! Half the weight of my Sony with a GM 50 lens. That’s a winner.
The one real negative are the accessories, which are obscenely priced. If you want to fit a protective filter to the lens, which I do, you need a different lens hood, which Leica will sell you for $420 in Australia. The thumb grip is another $420. But, there is a mob called Haoge who will sell you both for $100. The quality fits in perfectly. All the reviews tell me it’s hard to pick the difference with the lens hood and I believe that.
@kenn6592 it was a retirement present for me as well, also a major purchase decision. I've had my Q3 since March and love it with no regrets.
@@delthomas-n4m So you are just chasing spec sheets? The objectively best camera on paper will be the subjectively best camera only for a tiny fraction of photographers.
Spend the money on the tool that fits you best, not on the one that is best for the average person.
Nobody cares about your camera once the photo is printed. What a dumb comment.
Incredible photos
Ótimo ver um bom fotógrafo testando as câmeras. 👍🏼
Love all the tones and lighting on all your images shown here! The yellows in particular really pop and add some nice warmth to the scenes.
Whilst the words & thoughts aren’t exactly glowing, the pictures certainly are.
I love the analogy of the sports car or the dress shoes. That really summarizes this camera.
Not sure if it's the camera or the country/ scenario but easily some of your best work 👌
JESUS...
it's the First time that i look at your "reportage" style... Man... It's amazing, i love the shot, the story, the post etc .. i really enjoyed and i Hope to see more "human" close shot like this in your Channel because you are vert talented! Keep going i Will follow you 💪
love the fact you can see each others influences in Roman and James' stuff
GREAT selection of photographs, really enjoyed it. And totally agree with your assessment of the Leica.
One of the people going by on the bikes so could've snatched the camera in the first shot 😅
Lucky its not the third world country of Britan. 🤭
think it was a camera man, had a bit of shake to it
You think we are that careless with our cameras that we’d just let someone grab and ride off with it ?
I was worried the way he kept gesturing with the camera into the traffic while looking away. It looked close enough for someone to get hit / hit him just by accident.
I was toning the same thing. He needs a camera clutch and wrist strap from PD. I use them for my cameras for that reason and to stop dogs from knocking the camera out of my hands when they run by.
I mean , It should not be compared to any other camera, Although some are digital, the feeling and experience is like shooting with film. totally agreed that the best experience is to shoot & focus manually. Love my q343.
Great video! Always a pleasure to watch! I simply wonder why most TH-camrs have a problem with single card slot cameras. What’s unprofessional about the Q3 isn’t the physical design of the camera, but a flaw in a user workflow, such as not backing up daily. Anyone using a camera professionally would back up at least once a day. The size of the camera vs its capabilities makes it very hard to complain about a lack of extra card slot or internal storage. Let’s also remember that most commonly used cinema cameras today only record to one card at a time. We should invest in Sony Tough cards or Angelbird and sleep easy at night. Cheers, and thanks again!
Very good and helpful comments. I have the Q3 28mm. I totally agree with you.
Have you seen the H3 grip from Hugh Brownstone and Helium Design Lab? It might allow better access to that dial while adding some ergonomics.
Beautiful pictures. Really capture the feeling of SE Asia. Can almost smell the street food and feel the humidity.
Got my book last week. Amazing. Seeing my name in the back was too cool! Also, I jumped on the Q3 43 as soon as it was announced. I love the camera. The main thing I've learned... If there's more than two people, go with single point auto focus. Makes the experience much better. Also, I got a leather case with a small grip on Etsy. I recommend that in addition to the thump support. Cheers!
Loved this video! Great photos, entertaining commentary, and clear, relatable analogies. Just an all-around excellent video. Well done, James!
You can get the same thumb grip from eBay for a fraction of the price. I’ve got it on my Q3. Love your content James
Been watching you for quite some time now, please don’t take this the wrong way but I think i’ve just seen some of my favourite images of yours in this video. Maybe it’s just my taste but I believe it’s noticeable how much you enjoy this focal length. 👏
Yeah….no. That juice isn’t worth the squeeze. 🍋
In my experience, holding these cameras is like holding a flat bar of soap. Even a bit slippery with a RRS grip. However, with a Leica grip and a finger loop ergonomics improve 100%. On the Q3s a Leica grip allows for wireless charging.
That's nuts, turned on, and I'm like why are you on the Red River bridge, literally on the route In used to commute on years back. It literally threw me back in my seat. Not what I was expecting. Never did I think you'd find yourself in Hanoi. Funnily enough, it was where I bought my very first DSLR camera and really got into photography.
felt the exact same way because my family lives on the river and every time i visit i take that bridge! also the lake he sat at is where i used to go for morning runs every single day!
The village photos are moving. The images were able to transfer strong emotions.
I use my Q2 with a mix of autofocus and manual focus. For me the most important part of the camera is the optics and what one can do with it. The Q optics are extremely good for my personal taste. I don't have an M camera, but the main advantage there is manual focus with a large range of different lenses. There is the mix between perfection and imperfection. The Q gives a taste of that, but with a fixed lens.
In the end, what counts, is the joy one gets from the images AND from going out and seeing the world.
Thank you for this. I took my M11-P off the used market after watching this.
Very interesting to see you shoot with people as a major element in your photo - your style is still there as well. Very few landscape or scape shooters can make convincing 'street' shots.
Finally got my x100vi last week, so Leica urge is quenched for now, but I was happy to know more about it. More fascinating to me now is seeing other photographers I have followed for years just discovering a city I have been photographing for almost a decade. Really looking forward to more of your Hanoi, James 😊
These pictures all look so beautiful!!!!!!! They make me imagine the taste of the food in that wedding...
What a beautiful picture at 8:26 , love the composition too.
Is that what you call “having a whinge”? Love the photos
Thanks James - wonderful images (that light/atmosphere!) and a great first impressions precis. I now want to visit Vietnam and will hold off on that Q3 43 order.......I sold my Q3 for many of the reasons you've mentioned and was tempted back by the lure of a focal length that I prefer. But you've reminded me again of many of the reasons that I didn't get along with the Q3, issues that remain with this camera.
Nice to see someone give a realistic opinion of one of these, rather than gushing and blithering. There's a certain sort of person for whom it's worth the blisters, and their usually found airing their opinions at photography clubs.
His sports car analogy was spot on. I have spent huge money on sports cars over the years, but they have been a lot of fun and I can afford it. So why not? My children are well cared for after I am gone and the very hot place where I am probably going isn't likely to accept my cash bribes.
a question, since you mention photography clubs: I was thinking of finding one since I am new to town and need to expand my horizons, but I have this concern that the club members won't be the open-minded folks I see on TH-cam, but will in fact be judgmental or cliquey. Any thoughts on that? Thanks!
@@eastbaystreet1242 luck of the draw; many will be very cliquey and a few will be open minded, and some will be a mix. Only way to know is to go along to the ones in convenient reach and see if you like them.
Such a great place to photograph.
Also in your talking head shots, I am allways drawn to the small island with temple of something framed by the tree branches
Right brand wrong camera! Yes those villages and the people are just wonderfull. Thank you.
Very honest first thoughts. No joystick or decent grip would drive me mad. That said the pics do look magical James, but is that just the light mmm. Vietnam looks fab btw.
That's some delicate street photography
Broooooo... I'm loving your Vietnam imagery/photos. I can't wait until my next trip back (exactly a year from now).
Your style suits Vietnam so well. It looks good on you.
Mad they didn't put internal storage in for this model! So close to my dream camera.
Hi James, I just found your channel, absolutely love it, and therefore started binge watching your videos. Thank you! It is probably because my algorithm changed watching a lot of Leica content lately as I’m currently thinking about minimising my setup moving from Fuji to Leica . I love the images you produced with the Q2, really like those Leica colours and deep blacks. I’m looking forward to your next videos!
Those rice paper photos were amazing
Well, I actually have one, and I really don't mind a blister or two! But, the key point here is that the target buyer is essentially the older M rangefinder user who is now struggling with M manual focusing, the sheer weight of the M cameras, and the lack of image stabilisation - myself included! Never ever thought Leica would do a Q with a 43mm lens, as it clearly competes with their classic M / 35mm combination, so it seems to me that Leica are finally and quietly reinventing in order to hang onto their generally older users. You don't really mention how amazingly light they are, or how little post processing is required - the lens is absolutely outstanding and colour rendition is very much improved (no M11 magenta cast!), consequently my images normally require very little or no sharpening at all. Not only that you can crop away to your heart's content, so the 43mm lens can be used like a 90mm lens - incredible versatility. The (kinda!) macro mode is also superb and so easy to select. I use Leica's own grip which hugely improves the day-to-day ergonomics. What an absolute joy it is to happily go out every day with just one camera, and just one lens! The A7RV is gathering dust! Cheers, Steve.
I`m an older M user :) Mid `70`s been using them (along with Canon and Sony at times) for 40 years. Still no problem with RF focussing but this 43 is on my list as an alternative. The pictures on this vid are some of the best I`ve seen for colour and I`ve watched every episode.
They give you blisters until worn in. And then they feel amazing and are wonderful to wear!😂
Maybe not worth it........ but those photos are some of the best you've created
I think I’m drifting back to the 28mm Q3. A bit more usable than the 43mm. 🏴I’m a 35-40mm street photographer so the Q3 43 would be the choice for me; you would think but…
It’s grey rather than black, and it’s even more expensive than the Q3 too!
I also used to do street with a GRIIIX (and an XF10) back in the day so got used to that too.
The summary sounds like you're talking about the Pentax K01. It really does!
Love the 40mm focal length so this looks like a dream....but I think my Nikon is the way I will stay.
Great insight - I have the Q3 and a Sony A7IV. Feel exactly the same way.
I remember the video you made about the Sony A7R5 where you said the technology was too much. This is the problem with us photographers… we flip flop on what is important to us based on what we are currently shooting. I own the Leica Q3 28mm and a Sony system and my main camera is a Sony A7R3 (second body is A7R2). I would say the AF is somewhere in-between the 2 - but I don’t care. If anything I use my Leica like my Nikon FA film camera from 1983… it is about being fun to use… slowing the process down… actually making it feel like I make the photo… not the camera. It’s very satisfying for what it is (and my keeper rate is better). The AF is good enough (especially for the 28mm focal length). To use your car analogy - do you want a practical minivan with all latest in parking features, screens, cruise control, etc. or do you want a classic car that has some fairly modern tech like good brakes, ok AC - but does not break down all the time. The answer is both… but I am going to smile more while using the “classic”.
Enjoy your time in Hanoi ! Regardless the camera model the light there is incredible (thanks to the fog). I encourage you to reiterate the trip you did to small comunities in the countryside, these are memories i cherish. Thanks for the nostalgia burst 🙌
Great day! New James Popsys video!
I love the fact that a bad autofocus became a manual experience. Marketing to it s finest level.
Am I the only one who prefers convex shutter buttons? Lovely images by the way ;)
I've never met a camera I didn't like 🤷🏿♂️
I see you have never used a Zenit TTL
Thank you for your honest review. Also some of the best photography I have seen you take. Location and subject matter is everything. Off to Cambodia in a couple of months. Leaving the Z8 at home and taking my OM-1 and my Ricoh GR3x.
I will be doing wildlife and macro as well as street and landscape so the micro 4/3 makes sense. I love the Panasonic 50mm F1 .4 and the Olympus 12-40mm f2.8. my Z glass is too heavy to carry about with snorkeling gear etc.
It's so funny seeing the exact same locations as in Roman Fox's last video, but with photos that are distinctly James Popsys. Great video.
Very nice pictures. I don't think that I could "hate" a camera unless it's completely unreliable when I want to use it personally.
Everybody has a different taste about the ideal tool - for me the tool does not really matter unless it is highly specialized equipment with unique features.
Enjoy the Q3 43 🙂
Liked this video a lot. I ‘m glad you shared your honest opinion of this camera. I’d like to see stills compared to Sony you had there. The Lecia shots looked good but may be very frustrating if auto focus fails on $6k camera for me. Always intrigued by Leica Q cameras but wasn’t sure I would be happy after using them after using z 9 or canon d2x mark ii. The size is appealing for travel but negated if you need two cameras. Your insight always welcome. Thanks
Tell me what you really think of the Leica 🤣 James , the shots especially the indoor and low light shots are FABULOUS ! Love the atmosphere…awesome my friend!!!!
00:46 Just holding my breath that a passing rider doesn't relieve James of his tempting Leica offering :O !
I have a really small light Pentax APS-C DSLR from 2003, with a 28mm Pentax prime permanently on it now, which also works out as a 43mm equivalent on that sensor crop. I think maybe the resolution is ..errr.. a ..'tad' lower than the Q3 43 ;)
I really like using that combo on a wriststrap though.
Reliably straightforward and honest assessment. Carry on. 👍🥂
That shot behind you over the hazy water with the branch , couldn't stop looking at it. Great shots you got though of Vietnam and those small communities and there way of life
Photographic paradise…fabulous photographs.
Wow, not my experience at all. I thought the AF was snappy and much better than the Q2 and worked really well on the street. Love the ergonomics, fits well in the hand with a grip, phenomenal image quality, really quality camera. I took this camera all over Ireland for a month doing portraits and darn near everything else, including landscape, and it was absolutely a blast to shoot and could definitely do professional work with it. Strange. Who needs two card slots?
watching the rush hour traffic in downtown Hanoi in the rain was quite entertaining when I was there.
You pay for the lens really and get the body as a freebie. I have a Q2 and agree with many of your comments except I love the Leica handgrip. I’ve got most of the accessories because they came with my 007 special edition of 250 made for the world. Also has a rather nice British made leather case. Price was not an issue as I’m an 007 collector, also having a D-Lux7 007 edition which is one of 1962 made and my phone number ends in 007. Sad, I know.
Neither are my favourite cameras as it happens. That accolade goes jointly to my Lumix GX80 and E-M1 MkII. Even my Lumix G9 is technically a better camera than the Leica in many ways. However, the Q camera, and indeed the D-Lux7 [Lumix LX100 MkII] are very satisfying cameras to actually use and the menu system of the Q2 and Q3 is simplicity itself and encourages thought about composition and subject matter rather than camera functions and too many adjustments. A sort of old fashioned camera with emphasis on lens adjustment.
You’ve reminded me that the LX100 was in the same vein. Being a comparatively large sensor in a small body. I bought one for my Dad. It’s on a shelf somewhere because he always has an iPhone in his pocket.
@@adamaufdencamp5080 I have an iPhone 15Pro always with me also and use it probably as much as any other camera. However I’m seldom without a dedicated camera when out and about, as I just prefer using them, especially in low light, great as the phone camera now is.
@@hedydd2Same for me. Sometimes I carry more than one dedicated camera. But not being ambidextrous, I don’t do that too often. I tend to be a maximalist in that if I ever take a photo I like with an iPhone, I’m upset that I didn’t use a dedicated camera. Likewise, if I take a photo I like with my 40mm f/2, I can’t help but wonder if I should have used my 35 f/1.8 or my 50mm f/1.2. When Nikon finally produces a Z mount 28 f/1.4 and a 35 f/1.2 I will assuredly never be able to leave the house with just one lens. My Lightroom catalog has averaged over 20k photos since about 2003. Year to date for ‘24, I’ve added 60k to my library. My friends and family must believe I was born with a camera fused to my hand. Thankfully, when I’m done with a camera I give it away or sell it. I’m not sentimental about equipment. Only the photos I’ve snapped with them.
I own a Q3 and I completely agree. I am going to sell it.
Wow, on the images. Great, James👍🏼. I use the Nikon D850, and it sometimes struggles with focus on photos. I’m hearing the Nikon Z is bulletproof.
A D850 is a great camera. And I agree that the newer gen Z autofocus is usefully better. I’m not certain I would say that about the earlier Z bodies, except for the more complete coverage of the frame with autofocus sensors. I’d weigh the entire cost of switching before I dumped a D850. You’ve got a very competent camera that when you replace it might also sway you to begin buying a raft of new lenses.
Love the idea, but for my money I think I'd prefer one of these made by anyone else that isn't Leica or Fujifilm. I'm not a fan of unreliable AF, since getting that bit out of the way allows me to be a bit more presesnt in the composition and preemptive aspects of photography. That said, I have a Ricoh GR III so maybe I'm just pretending that I need Canon to make a 40mm fixed lens full frame compact in hopes that they finally do it. 🤔
I REALLY appreciate your honest review here. MPB needs to sponsor everyone... it results in no-nonsense reviews.
When showing the pictures, could you please also mention the settings? Would love to learn about that
I had a Q2 monochrome and sold it because the ergonomics were very bad and too heavy. Autofocus is also bad for this price level. I heard quite some people complain about reliability issues , freezing and so on.
Great preview-review 😁 totally agree with your thoughts, due to the more "playful" character of the 43 I also tend to grab it more often and the lens is great (perfect bigger brother from another mother to the GRIIIx, if pocketabillity isn't paramount).
Regarding the/a grip, I got the IDSworks one, if you haven't checked it out, I quite like it. Not too much bulk added or style dimished with the black aluminium one, in my opinion.
Cheers!
I've just returned a few days ago from Hanoi! What a brilliant place! Great to see your photos from there.
Had the chance to buy it, but after checking it out, I turned it down for two reasons. 1: When in tracking mode, images looks unsharp in the viewfinder when pressing the shutter release button half way down. 2: When in tracking mode, you can't see your chosen exposure in the viewfinder when you press the shutter release button half way down because the camera for some stupid reason needs an average exposure to focus. This is so far out and something I haven't experienced on any other brand. This is so ridiculous and it seems like the processor in the camera can't cope with the sensor size.
Unreal images James soooooo good