I Turned The SONY A7CR Into The LEICA Q3

[@GetOutsideYourself]

Dude, the profile is great. Applied it to photos I took recently in White Sands, NM, and they look amazing. Subscribed.

[@mengshun]

Good stuff and well done. Ditto for the Fuji envy crowd. The real point of this is how adaptable and customizable the A7 series is. Not just to wannabe but developing a true individual style with high level features. The ROI on the Sony's and their open-protocol with 3rd parties is unbeatable.

[@spencertclements]

This video is spot on. I was set on getting a Q3. Came to my senses and picked up the A7CR with the same exact 24mm f2.8 sony lens. So happy with that decision. The only thing I've been after still is the Leica color science and you just solved that for me. Sony all day.

[@nicolasheinemusic]

However, one stop missing 😞

[@spencertclements]

Which step is that?

[@nicolasheinemusic]

@@spencertclements f1.7 vs f2.5...

[@spencertclements]

@@nicolasheinemusic Got you, misread your comment. Yes, unfortunately the Sony lens doesn’t stop down to f1.7 but I also picked up the zeiss 55mm f1.8 and it’s smooth 😮‍💨

[@nicolasheinemusic]

@@spencertclements Yes - I own this lens and pair it with my A7C quite often. It's a great lens, the only thing that bothers me, is that it's pretty long and does not fit easily into any pocket for everyday use. That's why I just bought a Samyang 35mm 2.8. Even the Sony 24mm 2.8 is pretty long. The samyang is the shortest and least heavy 🙂... also it didnt cost too much.

[@bao.ng04]

DUDE THE MACRO B ROLL PARTS OF THIS VIDEO IS DEVINE. Absolutely stunning visuals. The aesthetics of this whole vid is so nice

[@kylemeshna]

Dude thank you for that! I saw a video a few weeks ago with some macro shots in their b roll and I was like “damn I should get a macro lens.” Found one on fb marketplace and got it the next day. Very pleased with the added oomph it gives

[@barrymayes6712]

Great video and great set up. But….. it’s all about having the tilt screen not a swivel screen. Makes a huge difference to nailing shots quickly. I sold my Q2 because I need a tilt screen. How about a Fuji X-T5?

[@Felix-vm1df]

I swapped my EOS R6 with RF24-70 2.8 for a Leica Q2. I couldn't be happier as the camera is so much handier and lighter when traveling. Since I mostly take wide-angle photos, the lack of focal length doesn't bother me at all. I just feel like I'm holding perfection in my hands and that makes taking photos even more fun.

[@ElementaryWatson-123]

Some people swap A for B and couldn't be happier. While other people swap B for A and couldn't be happier. What does it tell us? -- confirmation bias, pure and simple.

[@marximus4]

You could've just bought the RF 28 2.8.

[@Felix-vm1df]

@@marximus4 you can't compare the RF28 2.8 with the Leica Summilux 28 1.7 :D - the cheap Canon RF lenses have never convinced me and the lack of water protection is just as bad as the STM motor

[@marximus4]

It sounds like your issue was with the system rather than the size and weight.

[@philihc]

​@@marximus4 f2.8 vs f1.7 it's not the same and will never be.

[@chirsd666]

I used to have a Leica Q2 alongside my A7RIV. I sold both and picked up the A7RV and A7CR instead. I love this set-up. I have the menus, custom and function buttons near identical. For professional work, I use the A7RV with my GM zooms or fast primes. For travel or discrete cityscape and street shooting, I take the A7CR with a couple of my compact Sigma I-series primes. No regrets letting go the Leica.

[@kylemeshna]

Honestly sounds like the perfect combo!

[@ElementaryWatson-123]

People who don't care about photography care about leica.

[@chikonmikon5585]

oh to be rich

[@dell-tone6472]

@@ElementaryWatson-123LOL

[@marcotodino7759]

Hello Chris, I have a question for you. You have both the A7RV and A7CR, so did you feel the lack of the a7cr's 2 fps compared to the a7rv's 10 fps? Thank you in advance

[@dmfracasso]

I really appreciate you making this video. Sony owes you a debt of gratitude.

[@DocRock]

Mahalo @KyleMeshna 🤙🏽 I already have the A7IV and ZV-E1 bodies, and my 24MM is the 1.4 GM; how close to this setup could I get with the bodies I have? I ask because I contemplated selling one of them to get the A7CR. To complicate the process, I also have the GR III Diary Edition, X100V, and X100VI, and realistically I could buy a Q3, but I like the flexibility you mentioned about the A7CR. I may have a problem :P Great video.

[@ChristianLawrence]

Been shooting the a7cr and the 24mm for several months and love it. So much versatility than the Q3. Even tempted to switch from canon to Sony full time. Looking forward to checking out your preset.

[@rolandrickphotography]

Wait for the next time if it‘s pouring rain. I know a wildlife photographer having even two a1 bodies and took them for outdoor shooting. During a little bit of rain, after 15 minutes, the a1 stopped working - the camera was advertised as flag ship, being rain and dust proof, remember? The camera was still under warranty and Sony Service Austria claimed she dumped the camera into water - what she didn’t do of course - and Sony wanted her to pay € 3500 to fix that a1. The old adage is still true: „Buy a Sony, buy yourself a lot of problems!“ - specially if it comes to support, service and warranty. - The first shooting I had with my Leica SL2-S and APO-Summicron-SL 2.0/75 - the day I picked it up - was an outdoor event and it was double-pouring rain. Guess what: zero issues. That’s a camera.

[@ItsMeHammie]

​@@rolandrickphotography on the flip side I've taken my A7C out on week hikes in the rain, offroad adventures in the mud, and this last winter on the ski slopes, all with zero issues. Sony makes very solid products and sounds more like your friend messed up a gasket or something.

[@rolandrickphotography]

@@ItsMeHammie Well, looks like you had more luck with your A7C as my fellow photography friend with her a1. FYC, the water entered the body of her a1 by the shutter button. That was the reply of the Sony Service and obsoletes claiming she dumped the camera. If that would have been the case, there would have been water also everywhere else. I envy the Sony shooters for the AF, but not for the lousy customer service mentality they have.

[@cooperativ]

@@rolandrickphotography well, you would have zero problems with an r5 and an L lense as well for much cheaper :-) Also, funny how austrians are assholes to their own people, I thought they just don't like foreigners :-)

[@arylgg]

The A7cr is replacing my Leica Q and with the 40mm G lens I have the Q with my preferred focal length. Yet, I can attach the 50/1.2 or the 12-24/2.8 giving me one body with tremendous versatility and outstanding IQ. Thank you for the profile, I find Leica colors get in the way more often than not, with digital colors are very malleable.

[@_mccandless_]

Profile is great. Have a new red rope and square hood strapped to 6300 and 24 1.4GM :) Heading for the streets, looking forward to great shots, and admiring looks :) Thx.

[@kylemeshna]

Haha epic!

[@richie_phantom]

This guy made me get the Sony a7cr with this video (since I can make it like the Leica) and I appreciate you for that! Keep up the great content!

[@kylemeshna]

Always happy to help

[@lescobrandon3047]

I bought a sheet of round red stickers from a dude in Times Square. I stuck one on my Sony which now is worth thousands more.

[@videogame-techreviews]

Riiiiight. Smart.

[@noctwice]

The funny part is so many Leica users use tape to cover that red dot so as not to be a theft target

[@trym2121]

Nah, you missed the most crucial part. The word Leica in cursive must be inside the red dot

[@bobbleczar]

Until you've used Leica glass, you don't know shit.

[@lescobrandon3047]

@@bobbleczar I’ve borrowed a friend’s Leica so I do know shit. 😱

[@TechWandererYT]

You must have invested a s*it ton of time into this profile. It deserves its own video. I don't get the hype about the Leica's (X100VI over here), but still appreciate the work you must have put in. Thanks!

[@russbo97]

I agree this is a very nice combo- Two things missing- The simplicity of Leica menus- It’s a joy to use compared to Sony- also the ability to shoot non PASM. Need to adjust shutter, do it, need to adjust Aperture, do it, need to change ISO, do it. All while keeping the other piece of the triangle in auto or manual mode. One of the biggest pluses so rarely talked about. I would also miss the 1.7 lens but there are some trade offs- Good stuff

[@Zarar5]

Sonys F2.8 vs that Summilux 1.7 is no comparison & you brushing that off when you said that 2.8 is more than enough is downplay. Apart from that, love the comparison 👏🏼

[@klaushuxley3342]

Don't forget the leaf shutter.

[@ARImagery]

Kyle, completely hit the nail on the head with the video. When i was focused on photos the Z6ii suited me but as I moved towards video I found I struggled with the Nikon and the other struggle was the price of lenses for the camera. When I seen an A7iv for the right money and I could get third party lenses I moved instantly and now I have no isses with video or struggle to record. Just a pity its 4k 60 is cropped. The Nikon Z6ii was my 7th camera but the sony has been a revelation for me

[@richie_phantom]

This is top tier content for compact camera reviews. This has helped me decide on getting the Sony 7cr and although I don't have the money for a leica now, your review has helped me in pursuing one as a 2nd or 3rd option for a fun camera to have in the future. Thank you for this amazing video! Keep it up as I just subscribed and liked the video.

[@kylemeshna]

Happy to help!

[@Shunjut]

Similar to why I got the Fuji XT30II with 27mm 2.8 instead of waiting for the Fuji X100VI. Also, with it being more targeted to a family/edc set up, it’s nicer to transfer the smaller files and upload to social media. Great comparison between the Leica and Sony! 👍🏻

[@fuzzytalz]

Excellent, thoughtful, well-reasoned presentation and resources. The adaptability of Sony lenses to Nikon Z mount has had the A7CR tumbling around the back of my mind for a while.

[@russell6294]

Holy shit, that’s a lot of work you have done to make this video happen! Thanks!

[@Lowrode]

Great video Kyle, sold my M11 35lux, 35cron, 50cron. Went Sony a7cR and love it, still miss the M clic. But my hit rate is way up. Subscribed, keep them coming.

[@rsandilands]

How you going a few months later with the A7CR? Not missing the M11?

[@subject8123]

Leica and Fuji are for the joy of shooting. Sony, Nikon, Canon are for the work of shooting. I’m torn, I love shooting my Fuji, but I prefer the raws from my canon 😂

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

I bought the Leica Q when I had my child. The pics I took with it outshine my Fujis and now Canon r6mii even with the $3200 rf2870. The Summilux just has a feeling thats hard to explain. I sold it and now Im chasimng the feeling again but at $6k its not happening. This seems like a better route because I want to dump Canon anyways for a more versatile lens mount. One thing Sony doesnt have is the insane engineering...the Leica feels absolutely premium in hand. Also....most Leica guys want a 35mm Q so something to think about. My Q had a flat stealth cover from Etsy which was well worth it.

[@johnvr1]

I like the video, but for me there are two more pros to the Leica: the depth-of-field scale on the lens, which is missing on the Sony lens, and the simplicity of the body, whereas the Sony is the usual collection of dials and buttons. Now, personally I think the Q is overpriced for what it is because as you say, other than the Leica colors, it really doesn’t result in images you can’t capture with tons of other cameras.

[@Chris-13]

Totally agree with you, I love my A7CR and 24mm combo and I am a life long Nikon user !

[@davidmathar7339]

Thank you so much! I had the Q3 and loved it. But the 28 really turned out as a more 25mm Like.. and now swapped it for the CR. As I’m a Sony Shooter. For sure, the haptics are now where near the Q3, but finally I‘m happy with the Sony (with the 35 1.8 attached). All thanks to your Leica to Sony Profile for LR!! Nice Job!!

[@kylemeshna]

Happy to help!

[@paulgrosse7631]

The Leica's local contrast is something that other manufacturers haven't gone for - instead going for local definition (can't have em both - laws of physics and all of that). For that reason, they will not looks the same but you can get close. With my Leica, I took a picture of a steam engine at a station and have that as my lock screen on my phone and several people have seen it and said 'That looks good ... [pause for a couple of seconds whilst looking at the image more closely] ... No, that actually is good.' Leica glass is what makes the images. The sensor is only secondary and the body basically holds it all together whilst it stops stray light getting in. Leica designed glass is what you need - some mobile phone company had that for a while and many people where impressed.

[@josh6499]

Panasonic M43 bodies have Leica designed glass.

[@staticduo_dance]

You talk as Sony glass or Sony sensor is not capable of it. I love leica, feeling and other non tangible things it have. But Sony is better option practically in every single spec compared to. Having both I use more the Sony, give me the capability of using other lenses that increase quality of images a lot when you dont want a 28mm

[@_rhapsodist]

what a bunch of BS..

[@makofoto]

I've got the Q Full Spectrum, Q2 Mono and Q3 ... Sony A7C2. Gave my photographer son my X100VI system ... two different wide angle adapters. Right now the A7C2 is The Winner ... best AF.

[@wonsikyang891]

Can i be ur son

[@SCHOOLOFLIGHT]

As a Q3 owner of 6 months, and having watched soooo many Q3 videos before investing, this is video great! I shoot Sony A7r4 and A7s3 as well. Just spent 3 weeks on the streets in India with the Q3 as my stills camera. I’m 53 and am a professional, so the Q3 was a treat, and a bit of a “coming of age”. There are many things I missed, auto focus was a the big one. But for the first time I tried to learn manual focus and how to do it properly and that was fun. The Q3 is flawed. But damn it is a lovely camera to use when you get in the groove. Thanks for the great video mate.

[@kylemeshna]

I do think the Q3 has a special quality to it that is hard to replicate even though it’s very flawed as you mention. As a compact travel / everyday carry camera… it’s just so enjoyable. I’ve lately been bringing my fx3 and q3 as my two cameras, and really enjoy the combo. But I know it’s not a practical camera for 99% of people, so figure this video would help give a more reasonable alternative for most folks

[@quantum_ocean]

Not practical for 99% of people? What’s the source for this data? Just because it’s a prime?

[@duvalpenny100]

@@quantum_ocean I'm guessing because of the price compared to what it can do vs the competition. It really doesn't make sense to buy on paper. It's a luxury camera.

[@dmille6]

Sony Shooter for 10+ yrs professionally.. shot the Fuji x100v since the day it came out. loved the size and feel of the Fuji x100v but focusing and low light were the wall I kept hitting with it. I got a Q3 in Sept of 2023.. I really wanted to hate it.. the more i shoot it, the more i see its "charm." There is something special about the lens.. especially when you convert the images to BW. there is just some little glow in the highlights.. its heavy.. kinda clunky but easy to use once you get used to it. yes is super expensive.. its not for everyone.. but for some (me) its really a special camera.

[@kylemeshna]

@dmille6 think you nailed it

[@jeff7694]

Thanks for the fantastic video! I’m sure it’s been mentioned in the comments already but the Q3 also has a leaf shutter as well which means flash sync up to the highest mechanical shutter speed. Super-useful and quiet. Also, the EVF and rear display are much…much better on the Leica. Don’t get me wrong. I’m a Sony shooter and love what they’re doing these days but putting a 2.36MP EVF in a high res kit like the CR is just plain silly. Almost insulting. As mentioned by another person here, you can also look at the Sony RX1Rii. Different focal length with same problems as above and “only” 42MP, but a REALLY cool camera.

[@Brightsparks1960]

Sony had their 'Leica Q' formula in production with the RX1R and later RX1Rmkii and a great shame they stopped producing these cameras. I own both the RX1R 24MP and RX1Rmkii 42MP and the Zeiss Sonar T lens and sensor combo produces very detailed images with super micro contrast (helped no doubt by the lack of anti aliasing filter on the RX1R and variable AA filter on the mkii). The images output from the Sony's are slightly better than by Leica Q2.

[@kylemeshna]

I’m still holding out hope for the mk3. I bet Sony is seeing the sales of the x100vi and thinking it’s time for a refresh

[@craig_cunha]

@Brightsparks1960 How’s the AF difference between the RX1R and the mkii version? Is the ii a ton better?

[@davidpexton5402]

Best street camera I've ever shot with.

[@Reportageandart]

I hope for a mk3 and I’m a Leica shooter… I would get one and use both my Leica M and the RX1mk3 for different purposes but seems like they’ve abandoned the format… which is weird cause Sony makes so many different models of everything

[@richardbixler]

I’m just doing some research and both these cameras are too much money and more camera than I need. But man, awesome video and providing the color profiles (that look absolutly spot on)for your viewers is really cool!

[@kylemeshna]

Happy to help!

[@TCinSoCal]

3:55 have the A7Cii and cannot overstate how easy it is to walk and shoot with this camera body.. even one handed. I have 3 different types of AF mapped and can do all one-handed. Amazing travel/casual camera.

[@leafsfan71]

This is awesome. I have the both the Sony A7R3 and the Leica Q2, and after taking my Leica on numerous trips, I think i am done with it for travel. The focus is awful, and EVERY SINGLE PHOTO requires heavy editing and the highlights get blown out like no other. I am going to back to my reliable old Sony and will probably get this lens too. Thank you!

[@jerryeisner1]

GREAT JOB on this video and the job you did to back up your ideas!! I am very happy to be a fan of your work..

[@kylemeshna]

Much appreciated

[@TheAdampardee]

I had this exact same dilemma last year after owning the Q3 for a few months. Is this worth it, could I maybe save a $2k? I rented an A7CR and the 24mm G lens just like you did. I played around with it and felt really familiar since I do all my professional work with Sonys. There's just something I didn't like about it though. The feel, the look, I felt unimpressed. I specifically chose something other than Sony to slow down, enjoy the process and make taking photos not feel like work after taking photos all day for work. The profile idea is great though and I'd like to try it out and see how those A7CR photos look compared to the Q3. I know you compared everything to the Q3, but the cost of that A7CR setup is about what a used Q2 costs nowadays 😎. Great video Kyle.

[@abjeepify]

Hey you gotta justify that extra money spent some how.

[@hanshomesteading1276]

Hello, Leica fanboy here. I own a Leica Q since 2016, it replaced my other camera gear (I had lots) and it has been my primary camera since. To note: I am colourblind and I also don't care about the technical details, i.e. colors rendered, lowest noise, etc etc. What matters for me is the ease of use and simplicity. i also don't want to worry about which lens to chose. the Q lens is not my favourite choice (35mm would), but I learned to use and it made me more creative. Of course technical feature like IQ matter, it just needs to be really good. The Q has been the best camera I've ever owned.

[@Sonic-Boom]

Great vid and thanks for the colour profile. Going to try it with my A6700 shots. I wish there was a way of getting the Fuji Simulations into my camera though, that would be so good. Cheers!

[@kylemeshna]

Technically you can. They’re admittedly not as good, but I can make a video on that soon!

[@Sonic-Boom]

@@kylemeshna That would be amazing, I think it'll be a popular video,

[@Smoothblue90]

​​​@@Sonic-BoomI bought some color profiles from Cobalt Image. They have some Fuji color and black and white profiles you could try. They sell separate profiles for Lightroom and Capture One so they are not in camera profiles. You have to buy the profile for your camera. Then by the profile for the look that you want or the film that you want. I bought some of their film color profiles and film black and white profiles and I like them.

[@bdronish]

My Leica setup is Sony a7CII with Sony 40mm f2.5, Haoge Square Metal Lens Hood and Thumb grip)))

[@kylemeshna]

Epic

[@BRollBenny]

I'm very much a function over form type of person, so while this isn't for me, I respect the hell out of you taking the time to do it all.

[@JuanOzuna]

Really awesome video! I shoot with an A7C and for the past few months I've been obsessing on how to make it more of an everyday camera like the Q3. Eventually ended up getting the Sony G 40mm f2.5 and I've been very happy with it! I sometimes wish I had that extra stop, but it hasn't been a dealbreaker.

[@MulliganAl-f8j]

I was traveling around Japan, Korea, Germany, Austria, and Hungary just recently with my a7rv and 'way' too many lenses, many of which I hardly used. With many street shots, I tried to use AF in crowded places which was a bit difficult with my large Sony lenses so I started visiting Leica Stores along the way to get a feel for their cameras again, I've wanted a Leica since the 80s. Well, got back to the US and ordered a Q3 (also have my eye on an m), and I can't wait, I also have an x100VI. I'm going back to the basics and will be selling many of my Sony lenses, I'll keep the a7rv with 24-70 GMII/35 GM but everything else will be sold. Next trip I'll be traveling much lighter and I can't wait. The Q3 is just a joy to hold and I like that I'll have a sensor that is similar to my a7rv.

[@jebeq2007]

Awesome comparison! I agree that the A7CR is pretty much as good and a much better performer than the Q3. I actually bought the the A7CR and loved it although 2 weeks after I bought the A7CR, Sony dropped the price of the A7RV down to $3499 and it was to hard to resist, so I exchanged it. I do miss the compact size on the A7CR though. Your pofile does really help to get close to the Leica color although as you mention it will be almost imposible to get it exactly. The leica leans more towards a majenta and the Sony to a Green/Yellow, You can see that clearly on the photo at 7:04 , the highlights on the background mountains have a more majenta look on the Leica than the Sony and the red brick on the house is much more red then the Sony. I think that in the end no one will really know what you shot the photo on as they are both really close in looks, after all the sensor on the Q3 is a sony sensor.

[@polmestra]

Thanks for the profile !❤

[@eliaspap8708]

Thank you for sharing, nice setup but i believe you will get a much closer experience if you setup a Fuji XT5 coupled with the Fuji 18mm f1.4, “28mm Full frame equivalent” I don’t have Q3 but a Q2, the Fuji is 40 MPX sensor the color science is surprisingly really good and the film simulations are the icing on the cake. You also get all the the dials and an aperture ring and i found its as much fun as my Leica Q2, actually i find it more approachable to grab and shoot as with my Leica i am alway conscious of getting it scratched or possibly stolen when on shooting on the streets.

[@AllCarsUnited]

How do you figure? It's no range finder style. I would argue that a Fuji x100 option would be the best comparison

[@gnojedseek]

If I were to spend $6,000 on a camera, I would do anything to convince myself that it was money well spent. I think that's the main reason why Leica is always praised to the skies. Leica is reputation. Sony is innovation.

[@smodjo]

I like both setups :) I own q2 since 2019 and use it often and own A7r5 (since one month) --> A7r5 features are so much better than the q2's ... but q2 slows down how you shoot photos ... its not about the technical stuff, its about haptics, form factor, its robust built and somehow Leica history for a lower price than M cameras. And q2 cameras used prices dropped so much since q3 came out

[@RomainOjabierto]

As many already said, thanks for your hard work on the profile ! Thumb's up man ! Ofc I subcribed too !

[@kylemeshna]

Stoked to hear it was helpful and welcome aboard!!

[@RomainOjabierto]

Thank you Kyle !

[@ChrisBrogan]

Well, you just saved me a few thousand bucks. I was wavering. I'll admit it. But I'm not like rolling in it, plus, I liked what you came up with. Quite a great rig you put together.

[@kylemeshna]

Always here to help! And hopefully save some money haha

[@ArminHirmer]

Had the Q3, awesome piece. yet I swapped for A7Rc, 28mm is just too limiting for me. Thanks for preset, liked and subbed

[@ThoughtFission]

Leica fan boy here. There is definitely a Leica look. I've done blind tests and proven it. One thing you forgot is the saturated reds and yellows. Add all of the differences up and I've never been able to replicate the Leica Look straight out of camera.

[@arjaympersonalvlog3917]

Thank you for this, and more power to your channel

[@NickNightingaleYT]

Kudos on the video. I've owned both. The main thing I miss about my Q is the lens and the file processing. The lens that renders the closest to the Leica for the Sony is the Batis 25mm. The colors have been elusive for me.

[@tomkiessner8869]

I have owned the Leica Q. The Summilux is unique. The micro contrasts are excellent. I sold the camera after several years because there was only one focal length available. The Q3 and the Sony have enough megapixels to crop. That's why I've already considered swapping my Alpha 7c for its big sister....

[@MelbourneOldFashioned]

Thank you Kyle for the Leica profile. New sub here. I have a Sony A1 and I have used your profile to get that Leica ‘pop’ and I’m very impressed and grateful, so thank you

[@michaelmillward8006]

I use the A7CR and 35mm GM most of the time preferring the 35mm focal length. Having passed on the Q3 which was a close call i don't regret the decision at all.

[@mcmasterphoto]

I had a sony RX1R mk ii. I bought the Leica Q3 and my wife said I had too many cameras.... So I sold the Sony. I regret that decision to this day. Sony images were superior to the Leica with he exception of skin tones... The files were a bear to get them to an acceptable level if you were to print them. . There is no doubt about this. I miss my Sony and will re purchase it once wife goes to sleep.

[@idemeyes]

Hey Kyle thank your for the great content ! Is it also working great with the A7CII ? Do you recommend it over a Zeiss 35mm ?

[@fabiolaspina2832]

I really enjoyed your video and I can't understand the Leica fan boys. I think they were offended when you said that the Leica Q3 is a camera for those who have a lot of money to spend on a hobby. In any case, I would pair the Sony A7CR with a Voightlander E-Series lens (35 mm f1.4 or 21 mm f3.5) to "replicate" the look of the Q3 but, to be honest, I bought the A7CR precisely because, in my opinion, the camera is superior to the Q3.

[@steppen57]

This is an amazing video, and the LR Leica preset looks impressive. Thank you! You could have added that it's possible to purchase the Sony A7CR, whereas .... good luck getting your hands on a Q3. I have a SONY A7iii, and quite frankly I just love it. I've been wanting to get a Leica for a while, but why spend so much money? The economics don't pan out for me. And as I said, The Q3 is on wait-list. Go-figure.

[@CassidyHansen]

I just grabbed the profile minutes ago and have already applied to a recent photo I was working on. It for sure took the shot to a different level. Hopefully it works this well on lots of different stuff! Thanks dude. I would also really love it if someone made a 'Creative Style' for nice a JPEG straight out of camera!

[@36x24]

I'm a Sony fan, but the A7CXr is still a world away from the Q3. The bug one for me is that there is no fast 28 or (preferably) 35mm lens of comparable size to the 28 f/1.7 on the Q3. The f/2.8 28mm G is just too slow with too much DoF. Also, the top dial on the Sony is still PASM rather than shutter speeds. The Q3, with its top-mounted shutter speed, fast, compact 28mm with aperture rung and streamlined operation is a much nicer experience for the kind of shooting you want to do with a compact like this.

[@jonathangranados9022]

Would the Sigma 24 or 35 f2 solve your lens issue? Small, fast, metal construction, and aperture ring.

[@07SATS]

I agree with you 100% and this was another reason I kept Leica Q3 and sold Sony A7CR.... it was not worth the time I was trying match up colors and slowness killed it.

[@daemon1143]

Brilliant, I'm a Canon shooter, but I'd have the interchangeable lens Sony any day of the week as fun shooter, over a Leica with it's awful auto-focus, lousy IBIS and fixed lens, despite the nice sensor and great colour sceince. And no way would any rational person call the Q3 compact. This Sony idea also beats out the Fuji everyone is banging on about. Thanks for taking the time.

[@twinspowertv1078]

LOVE this! quick question, any recommendations if you already have a dedicated film profile you use on your images, but want to use your profile too?? 😩

[@kylemeshna]

Convert yours into a preset. Then apply my profile and your newly created preset. Then turn that combo into a new profile.

[@twinspowertv1078]

@@kylemeshna nice!! Will try that! Thanks! I might take it a bit further and try a Leica lens on the A7CR 👀👀

[@ChristianLawrence]

This is my favourite setup and daily driver. Be nice to find a lens that I could manually dial in focal distance on the lens rather than via the viewfinder. Have you come across a suitable lens like this yet?

[@Stockezy]

🤣 this guy is bugging. 60th of a second!? You can shoot that without IBIS! I’ve shot my Q3 at a 1/4th of a second and it was insanely sharp.

[@daveychainsaw961]

Just tried the preset, it definitely adds something cool and I'll be adding it to my profiles. I did find that quite a few of my images did an exposure boost after applying the profile. And bringing the shadows up a bit. Thanks.

[@burneshollyman2621]

Love this! Genius approach to a silly emotional topic many "Leica club members" have on this topic. Thanks for putting all the time and energy you did into this video. That said, I am not sure why you call it a "build" when all you did was change lenses and a lens hood on the Sony, which you obviously can't do on the Leica. But doing the "Leica look" in Darkroom in a post is kinda cheating since you can emulate any camera's "look." And you can do an infinite number of in-camera looks in the Fuj X100 VI or its entire X-Pro lineup in camera also if that is your jam One of the biggest differences is that the Leica JPEGs are vastly inferior to the Sony's (or even the Fuji X-Pro lineup). I own all these cameras but also have the Leica M2 Monochrom, and nothing can match it for B&W alone. The menu system on the Sony is a complex rabbit hole vs. Leica's purposefully minimalist approach. But if cost is one's basic criteria, your recommendation is fun. But the fact is you can get a used Q2 for way less than the Sony "build" so doing this on a used camera basis would be interesting. (Now find a place to hide because the Leica fanbois will come out of the woodwork and be haters :-) I am agnostic when it comes to camera religion. So... when in doubt on the topic, use an iPhone ProMax Plus and blow the quality of all the others away! haha

[@huddi85]

Wow.. I never seen something like this! Thanks for this video! Do you have a File for Windows too?

[@pmakap]

Speaking as an owner of both Leica and Sony, one item to consider is re-sale value of both cameras when and if the time arrives.

[@archbus]

good job. I have the Sony a7c, fuji x100v, and the Leica Q3. there's nothing like the Q3.

[@SebastienBarrau]

Have a similar setup for similar reasons. Only change is I try to carry the 24 2.8 g and the 50 2.8g with an A7CII when I take it out and if I have to take just one I take the 50 2.8g. I’ve tried the Q3 but was not impressed by its features, it does feel real good on hands but I prefer the a7cii

[@bhtv-1]

Howdy! Great video, but what strap are you using at around 2:30? Looks comfy and I need it. Thanks!

[@-grey]

Now if you have the Zeiss 35f2.8, you can do an X100VI alternative too. It's about the same size and weight and light/bokeh performance too. 😎

[@Wolfloid]

Except that the image quality will be considerably better. Unfortunately, it won’t have the very nice hybrid viewfinder.

[@-grey]

@@Wolfloid 100% that's a given. You get what you pay for in that sense.

[@07SATS]

I personally tried exactly same option what you have in this video and Sold Sony A7CR & 24mm G as I was not getting skin tone I was looking for. I lost so many hours and finally hated Sony A7Cr so much that I had to take this decision! Handsdown Leica Q3 is the best and trust me, you will save ton of precious time trying to make other cameras look and deliver like Leica......

[@BoyarsMedia]

Have you tried different camera profiles?

[@07SATS]

@@BoyarsMedia Yes, I did but not happy with them

[@aliibrahim449]

I don't know man ... Leica still win in colors for me

[@MartinV.]

Great Video! I need to try out one of these Leica's to see if it's worth the hype!!

[@andreasgilgenberg5588]

Wow thanks a lot for the profile ...its great and thanks for the video!!!!!

[@kylemeshna]

My pleasure

[@Vizualsp]

Thank you! this is amazing! ive been trying to find ways to not buy the fuji x100vi and a Leica q3. I have a Sony a6500 just sitting around and wanted to find ways to turn it into an everyday travel camera. now I just need to find a way to get that orange and gold look you can get from fuji and I'm set!

[@Carolyne_games]

What’s great about the Q (which is also true about Fuji X100, Sony RX1, etc.) is that the lens can’t be changed. The A7Cs are amazing but the temptation to get more lenses once I have an interchangeable lens body in hand is scary! Fixed lens cameras help me stay in control 😂

[@j16m02]

Easy fix. For a couple bucks, buy a tube of cyanoacrylate and voila! You have a fixed lens camera!😁

[@irutgers]

Thanks for the breakdown, my beef is that I hate, did I say hate the Sony ACR viewfinder…it’s why I ended up buying the XT-4 as my fun 2nd camera and not the ACR

[@SlotCarNewsOfficial]

Don't sleep on the Zeiss lenses. 35mm f2.8, Batis 25mm f2, and 40mm F2 ALL are amazing lenses.

[@sternschnupper]

to me the right lens is the challange in "replacing" the Q3, being a small fast and good 28mm lens. thus i'd love to see a comparision with a zeiss batis 25/2 or a (manual) voigtländer ultron 28/2, or even nokton 28/1.5 on the sony. this would match the capabilities of the leica regarding a fast 28mm, with the according look. hopefully - to test that i'd love that video!

[@ThePandaProcrastinates]

That lightroom profile is dope! Can you get Leica colors of you mess with the in camera picture profiles?

[@RyanKorea]

Great video! The Sony setup is for sure better than the Leica. The Leica is only better at being expensive

[@GeoffGrant2010]

Great video. I’ve added a Q2M to my Fuji XT5 kit. I’m happy!

[@dilfill]

I use a Leitz Summicron-R 50mm f/2 that I picked up for $200 and it basically turned my sony into a Leica. Looks amazing. Basically at this point if you want the Leica look just get a Leica lens modern or vintage and put that on your sony.

[@Georgie_B_]

Wonderful video Kyle! Have you tried this with the RV as well? Are the colours different than on the A7CR? Thanks!

[@kylemeshna]

It’ll work with all the current gen of Sony cameras yes

[@OngWeeKiat]

My main concern with the A7CR is the tiny and/or lower res viewfinder...

[@kylemeshna]

Honestly fair concern. I think that’s the biggest issue with it

[@briandoyal7338]

It’s obviously not as big as on some other larger cameras but it’s totally usable.

[@thomashirth8773]

I prefer the Leica Q3! The feel and especially the operation of the menu is perfect! I don't like cameras where the plasticizers come out of the rubber coating after a few years and stick terribly.

[@Christellezphoto]

That profile is so impressive. Now I want a Leica AND an a7cr haha

[@ilduro2]

What makes the Leica Q stand out are the optics. Period. No other lens compares. If you want to get a Q much cheaper, buy a Q first gen used. Stunning performance still today. Plus, I personally believe that having a 60 MP is more of a disadvantage compared to the original Q. Surely these are my personal views but the result of having used the Q extensively, being utterly satisfied and feeling no urge whatsoever to switch. Oh, and did I mention the Sony's awkward menu structure?

[@tscavenius]

Any chance of getting you to do the profile for Capture One as well 🙏 Awesome stuff!

[@cabellofatto]

4:31 these snaps are edited, right? Either way, they are stunning!

[@kylemeshna]

Correct those are all edited!

[@Jwitherow1964]

I got my CR and slipped a Ziess 24 f2 on it with a square lens hood. It’s amazing head turning camera .light wight but capable camera also put the red thumb grip and the red shutter button on it

[@BelAir101]

Thank you for the profile.

[@kogeisan]

Great review! I will take this Q3 as a secondary cam, keeping my alpha7c to use with a 105mm in the streets (i'm seaching the perfect solution to have both a 28/35mm and a longer focal lenght - n.b. the macro sigmaart is very versatile and useful for that... without being a heavy weight). The budget for this Q3 is high but I am sure that I will keep it for a while.... and clearly today, I don't think there is a better full format compact cam. The problem: my daily Sigma 35mm will be sad...

[@thomaslarsen5057]

I agree with you. Shooting Leica M myself I think most leica people would say the leica lens makes better bokeh perhaps and is the most important thing. Did you try that? Other than that having the option to change lens and have better AF is so important I think. And only having a 28mm is not very good at all. Thanks for sharing!

[@dojomediaboss]

nice vid! I paired my a7cr with the silver smallrig baseplate and sigma 24mm 3.5 to complete the vintage vibe. lovely images!