LEICA D-LUX 8 - A Playful Camera With Serious Versatility

In this detailed review, I dive into the Leica D-Lux 8, exploring its features, use cases, and how it fits into my photography workflow. From its impressive 10-34mm zoom lens to its lightweight design, this camera offers versatility for various photography needs. I'll discuss my personal experiences using it as a point-and-shoot, a bike ride companion, a travel camera, and even a backup for professional shoots.
WOTANCRAFT BAGS
www.wotancraft...
VIETNAM WORKSHOP
www.askmottbyj...
Gallery and follow up episode.
www.askmottbyj...
► ABOUT ME
- STORE (PRESETS, COACHING, WORKSHOPS, PRINTS) www.askmottbyj...
- FAVORITE GEAR www.askmottbyj...
- EDITORIAL PORTFOLIO www.justinmott.com
- PRODUCTION COMPANY www/mottvisuals.com
- INSTAGRAM / askmott
- NEWSLETTER www.askmottbyj...
Join me as I break down the pros and cons, compare it with other popular cameras like the Ricoh GR3 and Fuji X100, and explain why the D-Lux 8 is a valuable addition to any photographer's kit. Whether you're a street photographer, a professional looking for a scouting camera, or just someone who loves high-quality compact cameras, this review will help you decide if the Leica D-Lux 8 is right for you.
📸 Don't miss out on my upcoming Northern Vietnam photography workshop and other resources available on my online store.
💬 What do you think about the Leica D-Lux 8? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments!
#LeicaDLux8 #CameraReview #PhotographyGear #CompactCamera #LeicaCamera #StreetPhotography #TravelPhotography #CameraComparison #PhotographyTips #PhotographyTricks
Join this channel to get access to exclusive content, access to my monthly photo competition/assignment, weekly members-only live streams and much more.
/ @askmott
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 INTRO
1:25 SPECS
2:35 MY USE CASES
7:43 COMPETITORS
9:51 PROS AND CONS

[@chrisbogart687]

I had some choices to make in upgrading from my old cameras - The Leica Q3 was the odds on favorite, but instead, I got a good used Q2 Monochrom and the D-Lux 8 for the same price. Now that is a two-for deal that works for me. It solves all the needs and issues I have. There are always trade-offs for everyone and you hit on them. But the D-Lux 8 is a gem of a camera that you can take and use - for me, I do a morning exercise walk through National Forest and there are so many opportunities for shots. Most are very unexpected. So having the D-Lux 8 as your back-up/fun camera with its light weight, ergonomics, and image quality is what sold me. I am also appreciating the term "The Liberation of Limitation" more and more as I shoot using these cameras. No big bulky camera bag - or as a good photographer friend calls it - My insecurity Bag. :). Now we get back to the basics with these cameras and learn to embrace and work within their limitations. The joy of photography is back.

[@malfunkt]

Sounds like the perfect fit for your needs. I had the original LX100, and quite enjoyed it. Even with it's older lens and sensor, for a current production camera, there really isn't anything like it in the fixed-zoom compact category. For someone looking at a portable camera with zoom that might be a bit tougher in the weather, consider picking up an older Canon G1X III. The Canon has the benefit of being an APS-C, has a built-in ND, OIS 4-stops, fully-articulating screen and weighs about the same as the D-Lux 8!

[@Christophe5658]

Hi. Thank you for your video. I am french and I own the D-Lux 8 since july 2. The camera is what I expected and the quality and ergonomics are as good as described here and there. But what strucks me is the TOTAL LACK of ergonomics relatively to the zoom. This is unbelievable from Leica since the zoom is THE big difference with the competition solutions. I mean Fuji and Ricoch of course. I list the following arguments : - The camera does not save the zoom position when it is put OFF and ON again. If you want to work with a specific focal lenght during a period of time, you have to set this focal lenght each time you put the camera ON again from 24mm to the focal lenght you want. - No display of the current zoom position in the viewfinder. To know the zoom position, you must activate the W/T button. But activating the button changes the zoom position...😵‍💫 - No possibility to choose a step-zoom (24-28-35-50…), witch is much easier most of the time, instead of having a millimetric adjustment. - No possibility to choose the middle lens ring as a zoom ring. Leica has assigned this ring to the magnifying focus. But if you deactivate this assignment (You can do that), you can not re-assign the ring to an other function. The ring just turns uselessly. How stupid ! I repeat… Leica has COMPLETELY OBLITERATED the zoom ergonomics. More than that, it has erased the zoom ergonomics that existed on the D-Lux 7. WHO KNOWS WHY ??? I add that on my D-Lux 8, when I activate the zoom, I have a 24 to 105 scale... (Yes... 105) There is a step à 75 then there is a digital zoom to 105. I don't know why. And it is impossible to change it. As all this seems to come from software decisions, I suggest this addition to the MENU for a future update : - ZOOM Setups - Save the Zoom position............................................: YES/NO - Display the current focal lenght (in the viewfinder): YES/NO - Step zoom.................................................................: YES/NO - Lens ring as zoom ring.............................................: YES/NO - Digital zoom available..............................................: YES/NO My two cents... -

[@cameraz99]

Hmmmm .... where have I read this post before? 😋

[@thedarkslide]

I always liked the LX100 series, but I never could justify to buy one in the past. A year back or so, my local Leica store had a used, mint condition D-Lux Type 109 (original LX100) with the automatic lens cap, the grip, batteries and some other accessories. For USD600. What a steal. The original D-Lux Type 109 is made in Japan, shoots Panasonic's RAW format, and has 12MP. For images framed correctly and not needing a crop, 12MP is still plenty to print large. By the way, a fun feature of the LX100 series is their leaf shutter - and yes, you get that in the Q as well. With that, you can sync flash at any shutter speed. The D-Lux is a great little camera with a flash and if you grab a compact flash, you can easily operate both the camera and the flash in one hand each for a long time before wearing out your arms. AND hand flexibility with the focal lengths in camera.

[@georgewidmeriv701]

I'm on the list to get one, this will be good for travel and replacing the use of my iphone camera. I will still use my Olympus OMD EM10 for my sports (automotive racing) photographs.

[@AskMOTT]

Let me know how you like it George when you've used it for a bit. Did yo get the collapsable lens cap? I resisted it at first, but I now I dig it.

[@georgewidmeriv701]

@@AskMOTT I couldn’t find it, is it the same one on the Leica web store listed under the D Lux7?

[@bryanvanderbeek841]

Your enthusiasm hss tipped me over the edge and helped me make the decision to try it out!

[@mikeabcable]

I'm so happy that you got a new gear. Probably I need to replace my 10 year old mac before buying a backup camera ... It sounds like a great versatile gear that suits for a lot of people.

[@AskMOTT]

Thanks Mike, I don’t have it yet as that was just a demo but hopefully soon.

[@cameraz99]

I've had the D-Lux 8 for a week now, and I'm really enjoying it. I just wish there was some way to lock the focus point on the LCD screen ... or a way to quickly center it. Several times when I was taking a picture, my nose or finger must've hit the screen, and the focus point moved to the far top left corner of the screen, or somewhere else where it wasn't supposed to be.

[@AskMOTT]

That’s a bummer, I pick mine up next week and I’ve got a big nose so I’m sure I’ll have the same issue :(.

[@taigenetsudo4273]

I had an earlier iteration, the D-Lux Typ 109 a few years back.. it was awesome for all the reasons you mentioned and the lens (which remains unchanged) is sharp and draws excellent sunstars, although dof pop is not so easy to achieve obviously but you can get a bit. It's also possible to set the zoom to step in standard focal lengths which is very useful. I too am not a fan of the extending zoom erection (which was why i eventually sold it). Be very careful with the battery compartment door when open.. if you accidentally set it down, or knock it when open it breaks off easily. I dont think they've modified this either. If you need a spare battery door i still have one in the bottom of my bag 😏

[@dgutie8]

Great review! I have the GRiii x and find it limiting. Great pictures, but looking for a little camera with more versatility.

[@garymc8956]

I’m on the list for one; size and variable focal length are features that I like. I have a Q2 and X100V but would rather have this new one rather than upgrading what I have.

[@AskMOTT]

Hope it arrives soon Gary, I see they are bit backed up with filling orders .

[@GrainAndPixels]

Any problems accidentally hitting buttons on the back and changing settings? I have the LX100 and find it too easy to accidentally press a button with the palm of my hand and change a setting. I also don't like how the lens extends, it looks weird and is slow on my LX100 anyhow. Definite a great size for bikepacking! A lot of people seem to whine about the MFT sensor size, but I find it to be perfectly fine and get 16x20 prints that look fantastic. I also like using it as my "monochrome" camera and find the Lumix high contrast mode to be quite nice. I'd consider the Leica if my LX100 ever dies. (I also have an M9 and a Sony a7RII, the Sony gets the least use these days.)

[@oswaldvz]

I have the Leica Q2 and the Sony Systems but the D-Lux 7 is my favourite camera. I enjoy how small it is and the tactile controls.

[@AskMOTT]

Love to hear it, will you upgrade? I don't think it's a huge upgrade but I do love that menu system.

[@AskMOTT]

How would you use this camera?

[@daryljohnson9010]

@@AskMOTT EDC and therefore a secondary camera in intent, primary camera in terms of actual use.

[@mgshoutman]

What SD card do you recommend: UHS-I or UHS II ? Latter seems recommended by Leica.

[@ianforber]

I’m very tempted. Having the Leica user interface is, for me, essential. The size is great and the DNGs I’ve seen are pretty good up to 1600 ISO. Above that are perfectly fine unless you’re a pixel peeper and, in any case, can easily be improved by modern noise reduction software. My problem is that I have a Q2 and an M11. The D-Lux sounds like a perfect companion to the M11 but I love my Q2. Right now, I can’t afford to just buy one so I’d need to trade in the Q2 to get one. I’m trying to decide whether having the zoom offsets having weather resistance. Do you know if the max zoom compares well to a Q2 file cropped to the same angle of view?

[@kglguitar]

What is the size of the wotancraft camera pouch?

[@glennsak]

A rebadged Panasonic LX100 II with some decent UX upgrades - but with an upgraded price!

[@Benjamin_Jehne]

@@glennsak Your simply wrong. It’s a new EVF and a new rear display. The button layout is completely different so the whole user experience is completely different. But hey, Mercedes and Renault also share some engines, so thats why the Mercedes has to be a rebadged Renault.

[@clowncar9042]

Would you do a review on the Wotoacraft Canteener EDC Utility Sling Bag 3.5L? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this sling bag as a camera bag. Please? and thank-you!!!!

[@AskMOTT]

Yes, I will, coming soon.

[@clowncar9042]

@@AskMOTT Thank-You Kind Sir! I am a monochrome photographer based in the USA I keep my camera kit very basic. I would also like your input on the Leica D-Lux 8 being a micro 3/4 sensor vs a full or DX sensor. Thanks love your videos!

[@RonScibilia]

Some months ago I bought a used Sony RX10, the OG model, for $400. Might make an interesting comparison in terms of features and IQ.

[@AskMOTT]

I remember that camera , has some nice features.

[@lovedogandco.7138]

Hi Justin, in researching this camera, I was checking out the manual and on Page 89 it shows Animal Detection as part of Eye/Face/Body. Have you tried it on your pet's? And if so, does it pick up their eyes? Thanks!! - Liz

[@louixhunter4023]

Big up the man Phong 🙌if it was him that supplied the camera that is

[@eagleeyephoto8715]

No weather sealing and for that price knowing that previous model as well as both Panasonic LX’s ware a dust gathering boxes.

[@jayocotube6483]

You mentioned your sl2-s. Did you get the sl3?

[@alandargie9358]

I thought you had an SL3 as well?! Nice discussion anyway, thank you.

[@drshazetta]

Awesome video! Also could you tell me what bag the green travel bag is. Love the size!

[@AskMOTT]

It’s a Japanese company called Porter Yoshida. I did a whole video about it , love their bags.

[@drshazetta]

@@AskMOTT thank you! I actually went and found the video!

[@simon359]

I’d like to know two things, how fast does the camera turn on and how fast does it Auto focus? I need a quick camera, otherwise I can’t use it for street photography!

[@dirkfortenbacher]

Keep the camera on and use Zone Focus. These features are implemeted in all cameras.😂😂😂

[@simon359]

@@dirkfortenbacher Some work better than others, I’ve had to deal with all of Fuji’s problems over the years!

[@sigmagamer364]

i think you are the richest photographer in vietnam already.

[@Sortirai]

good evening at the time of the success Fuji x100v the videos were numerous but for the d lux 7 not much. this is the opposite. we must not miss the mark. see you soon..

[@rigobertomorales6092]

A lot of comments but not pictures, how you judge a camera without pictures?

[@AskMOTT]

Here is the follow up episode, also a link to photo taken with the camera. www.askmottbyjustinmott.com/gear-reviews-learn-photography-blog/leica-dlux-8-review-a-playful-camera-with-serious-versatility

[@dummybert]

For when I don't want to carry an M10 or Nikon body. I had in the past an Olympus Pen-F, X100F, X-Pro1, and X-Pro3 trying to cover this need, but for some reason none of them stick (now I miss the Pen-F, though). Leica Qs are beautiful cameras, but perhaps a bit too big, and I fall more into 35mm & 50mm. I'm not sure if I'll like the retractable lens from the D-Lux 8. Does it take long from switching the camera on until you can shoot?

[@dirkfortenbacher]

Maybe i'm a crazy german, this little tiny camera just looks wonderful. I felt in love within seconds and ordered it. And sold my Fuji x100VI. I really don't care about the specs. I made a lot of my best pictures with the smartphone and love these pics on my wall. It is not the gear it's the smart idiot behind the lens. 😂😂😂

[@AskMOTT]

Ha ha I agree, not about you being a crazy German but about the part it’s about the idiot behind the camera.

[@irutgers]

Curiosity, why the piece of tape on the m10? Is it to be a bit more i inconspicuous?

[@willgreig8912]

Another good video, only Leica could get away with this, I’ll be sticking with my £300 gx85 and pancake lens, £150 😂

[@terryallen9546]

Two things are deal breakers. 1. No weather sealing. 2. Too hard to clean sensor. Makes me question executive leadership ability at Leica/Lumix

[@dummybert]

if you can't change the lens... why would the sensor be dirty?

[@terryallen9546]

@dummybert Look up "lens breathing" or "focus breathing."

[@dummybert]

@@terryallen9546 I know what that is, but it’s not related to my question: why would you need to clean a sensor in a camera with non-interchangeable lenses?

[@terryallen9546]

@@dummybert Dust.

[@dummybert]

@@terryallen9546 you can’t remove the lens. 1) How is the dust getting there? 2) what does focus breathing has to do with dust?

[@jonnymooshoo]

Is yhe automatic lens cap removable? Do you know if its possible to add a square lens hood to this setup?

[@cameraz99]

Yes, the automatic lens cap, which is an optional accessory and does not come with the camera, is removable. A square lens hood would probably vignette at 24mm, and it would zoom out with the front of the lens, making the awkwardly-long zoom lens look even longer.

[@stevendente9270]

My D-Lux 8 has been shipped, I expect it here on Monday. I already have an M10-P, and M11, and an efficient set of leica M lenses. I didn't buy the D-Lux 8 based on specification. rather I am looking forward to it providing a Leica shooting experience, and being a very fun camera to shoot. It will also be a good camera to shoot with the Grandkids as they really are not up to shooting an M camera. I traded a Leica lens that is redundant in my kit (hadn't used it in more than a year) for the D-Lux- 8 and still have a good store credit left over. I basically got all the money I paid for the lens years ago. So, price was really not an issue.

[@christianwhite1168]

What’s the highest usable ISO setting do you think?

[@AskMOTT]

I honestly didn’t have enough time to test low light yet as it was rushed , sorry Christian.

[@justin_704]

IT'S JUST A D-LUX 7 WITH OLED AND A USB-C!

[@taigenetsudo4273]

And completely redesigned aesthetics.

[@thecamerastoreguy1233]

To be fair, it's a LX100ii with a new shell, LX100ii discontinued at least 2 years ago.

[@KemalMyktürk]

good luck with using the d-lux 8 as a scouting camera. leica has, for reasons only known to leica, removed "step zoom" and "zoom resume" from the menu. it's now extremely fiddly and irritating to dial in a standard focal length. very annoying :(

[@AskMOTT]

That’s a good point that a few people mentioned , thanks for pointing that out . Not sure why they did that.

[@stayuntilforever]

The hitrate on my Lumix LX100 II is awful. The camera looks good but the images are not up the quality I'm after. My Sony rx100 iii actually is more accurate, sharper and looks better SOOC. I'm still waiting for an APS-C compact camera with 50mm FF equivalent. I'm using my Lumix LX100 II only as a monochrome camera, that's where it shines a little bit..

[@skebir2506]

This Leica is a Panasonic lx100 ii with a sexy dress and better software, sold over 2 times the price of the Panasonic. It's not a good deal if you shoot raw.

[@brentkingston4389]

The D-Lux 8 has only a 12 Bit sensor - has this limitation impacted the quality of the photographs?

[@MARKLINMAN1]

Good luck getting one, LEICA will be in the same boat as the Q3, UNATTAINABLE because of demand!

[@RobustArid379]

My phone

[@jasongold6751]

Older technology! If one wants small, pocket size, this too big in size and price! I bought used Lumix with Leica lens, battery charger for$15. Yup! A Samsung really small camera, $20.More than enough for media. Printed many small cameras , my 1st digital, Pentax Optio 3,5 mp to 20 x 30cm..

[@dothewubwub]

Only Leica could release an old camera with a tiny sensor and lack of weather sealing and be asking over $1500 for it. A Ricoh gr3 is smaller, less expensive, and has a better sensor.

[@dummybert]

lack of OVF is a deal-breaker for me, I don't like the shooting experience from the back screen. But for someone who prefers that and likes 28mm, it's an excellent camera.

[@haakon_b]

The MFT sensor is excellent. But I'd buy the Lumix instead.

[@WhoIsSerafin]

You beat me to this comment. God bless capitalism though!

[@davidmantripp5312]

Also: only Leica could release camera with updates which almost exclusively emphasise improved user experience and shooting pleasure, with image capture tech which is absolutely adequate. They could well be ahead of the curve.

[@taigenetsudo4273]

​@@davidmantripp5312this!