Leica Q2: King of Fixed Lens Cameras?

[@zenaidekey]

2:05 « in the Leica, ecosystem, of course » . Brilliant. This is one of the raisons I love your work on KZbin.

[@CentralTendency]

It is a fine camera. This week I returned from a trip to India and it fully met my expectations as a "travel" camera. I shot 100% JPG, and it was wonderful to "crop" in camera rather than make a mental note to crop an image when I got back to the hotel. I travel for business, not photography, so 80% of the images were taken from taxis, "autos", hotel cars, and even a bus. I have no "buyer's remorse" that I made the decision to make this my number one camera. It may not be for everyone, but it is perfect for what I need. The only thing I would like to change on this camera, and it could be done with firmware, is the issue discussed at 12:25 - the focus point should be able to be locked in the center and not adjusted with the D-pad, or touchscreen. I lost a few wonderful images because of this.

[@LaurenceAshdown]

I purchased this camera 4+ months ago and it's simply outstanding. Haven't looked back since. Definitely worth the investment (sell all your current gear!)

[@marcgilles4520]

8:37 The Fujifilm X100V also has digital zoom. It is a 50mm and 70mm equivalent. I use this feature all the time, but I feel a lot of reviewers never mention it.

[@Tomos13]

How do you access that feature? Thanks

[@marcgilles4520]

@@Tomos13 Go to button dial settings, then control ring settings, then digital tele convert. This will assign your lens control ring to be used as a way to choose between 50, and 70mm. This will allow you to zoom in by cropping into the sensor. Just one thing, I have notice a hit in overall quality, especially at 70mm, but I tend to make corrections in posts.

[@Tomos13]

@@marcgilles4520 Sweet, thanks Marc

[@marcgilles4520]

@@Tomos13 No worries , happy shooting!

[@winc06]

For someone who does not like 28mm you sure made some fine images.

[@FaizalWestcott]

Well thank you! I’ve shot with 28 a lot , just enjoy 50 a lot more now

[@teamhazardous201]

Agreed. You took the challenge and it worked out visually.

[@tonysibvisuals3552]

Got both the Q and X100V Personally love em both but the Q has me the most interested as it’s a different feeling that it brings with those great images, sharpness and change of mm that aren’t always used bit of a challenge accepted type of mind set that makes it great.

[@tuckerhousephoto]

With respect, it is so rare to find these kinds of videos on KZbin anymore. The quality, and pure TALENT of your photos and video is insane my friend. Wow. Just an insane watch

[@HN-sk2lr]

I’m in love with my Q2 it’s absolutely stunning and great photos ❤️

[@Shotbygreko]

have owned this camera for little over a year now. I was also annoyed at not having a way of charging the camera on the go. but then was in a beach shooting incident where my camera bag got wet with a rising tide. i had 4 cameras and the only one to survive was my leica q2. the weather sealing is top notch!

[@luischavezphoto]

As a self appointed Leica Q2 fanboy, I love your balanced impression of the camera. Heck, you could insult me on camera and I would still like the video.

[@UlyssesAokiPhoto]

Friday night show for me. 🫡 Awaiting the Q3...

[@irenedp4947]

I am biased. I own a Q1 and a Fuji X100F. The only thing I can say is that the fuji is nice and nicely priced. The rest, color, ISO performance, lens definition… is worlds apart. I use the Q for scouting, but often times the images taken with it get into my regular work.

[@AlexOnStreets]

Great work! Patiently waiting for the Q3..

[@toddhunter2870]

The thumbnail for this video popped up on my screen this morning. I'm a career photographer/cinematographer who (surprisingly) has never even touched a Leica camera. Yet in my older years I am seriously considering the Q2 to be able to carry a camera that is as convenient as my smartphone but with the image quality I'm used to with my "pro" gear. I too am unsure about being forced to use such a wide lens but I have always liked to get close to my subject so I think I can be okay with it. I have a lot of respect for your presentation style, maybe I disagree and I am seeing it as a review and I disagree that opinions aren't important. It's a matter of "consider the source" and because I could actually see you using the camera, and the results of your use of the camera. You have earned the credibility that I should trust your opinion. So bottom line - thank you for sharing a LOT of valuable info on the Q2 with me and other viewers.

[@Randuski]

When i first picked up the ricoh gr, i wasn't sure how I'd feel about 28mm, but honestly, it's become my favorite focal length. You have to adjust the way you work and get closer to people but normally people assume that because you're so close, you must be photographing something behind them haha

[@spaceman-pe5je]

griiix has a tighter focal length. pretty cool

[@Randuski]

@@spaceman-pe5je part of me considered picking the x up. But idk. I use snap focus a lot, and the x has a shallower depth of field cause its a 40, so idk how it would go. I might consider renting one and seeing if i vibe with it

[@matteoenricocattaneo]

I own a Q2, very happy. But the IQ I preferred the one of Leica Q. Overall for colors. Very well done video!

[@oliviatrelles]

I really appreciate your objective review. I own the q2 and q2m and had to do some serious budgeting to do it. The assumptions people make about people who own Leica’s has always been wild to me. We all spend our money differently and get use out of different tools. I felt you communicated clearly 28mm doesn’t work well for you and left the Leica snobbery/assumptions out of it. Good on you.

[@Former_Gamer_]

The X100V does exactly what you’re looking for in terms of digital zoom and EVF with the 50mm and 70mm crop!

[@saimaddali6208]

I think the big difference is loss in resolution. I used to have an x100v and then upgraded to a Q2. Q2 zooms are significantly higher quality and have a richer look/contrast to me. Not saying that makes it necessarily better for an upgrade but its definitely night and day between both

[@DO-xo1cz]

@@saimaddali6208 - The x100v does do an pixel interpolation when you perform an in camera crop. So the resolution is better than just a straight crop. With that said I only go up one step in digital zoom, because if you go up two steps of digital zoom, the picture quality suffers. However, I have the TCL lens adapter which gives a 50mm equivalent with zero loss of resolution. You just need to carry the lens adapter, so that’s a compromise you need to make.

[@q3813]

Fujinon lenses are not sharp.

[@StayCovert]

I love Boston so much for photography!everyday i get time to myself i leave my car parked at home and just walk all over the city with my Fuji. Every neighborhood suites so many different tastes for architecture and street photography

[@OttosTheName]

I don't have anything against Leica existing. I always hear fantastic things about the optics. But I do feel like for that money they should at least give you some decent button placement, ergonomics, maybe a screen that is usable and gives you a complete image preview, just... the essentials like you get in most P&S camera's.

[@TheWutangclan1995]

I think there’s a different philosophy behind Leica where they want people to shoot with it. I use to laugh at some of the ideas they had. Then it got me thinking and looking more into it. Once I got a film M it started to make sense. Same thing with this camera.

[@luuvuh]

Yes. What you’re asking for, buy a Sony

[@luuvuh]

And also, Leica designs their cameras for Leica shooters. Their design philosophy is very different as are people who loves the brand. They are not trying to target everyone and loaded with features.

[@0zymanndias773]

I understand your pov. But until,you try one, you won’t understand lol

[@luuvuh]

@@TheWutangclan1995 yep! Once I started shooting w an M, I can’t imagine shooting with anything else. but the M experience is not for everyone either…. very specific style of shooting.

[@TheAllianceEnt]

Bro, digital was an X100V and I bought that after watching most of your content. Then, I got my Q2...sheeesh. For anyone with the money but is on the fence? The IQ is remarkable. This lens is worth it, nooo cap.

[@bmwohl]

I found your "first impressions" video a wonderful introduction to your own photographic work. I'm really, really impressed with your composition and choice of subjects. Thank you for taking the time to present such an excellent collection in such a short time.

[@Red-xz1gk]

You made a lot of good points. I totally agree missing usb charging is a big mistake. They corrected it by putting one to the M11 and I think they will have one on the Q3. For saving some battery power in the field, use extension option for LCD/EVF so the LCD won’t drain your battery when you are not shooting. This will help the power to last longer. I found the cropped frame line implementation on the EVF is great especially for people who are used to looking through range finder. But I wholeheartedly agree if Leica can implement an option to have full size live view for EVF in crop modes, that will be fantastic and will make using crop modes much more friendly to a lot of folks who are range finder naive and who care about wysiwyg framing on the EVF. While the feeling and precision of the MF ring on the lens is exceptional (and better than almost anything other brands offer in the market), the overall MF experience is still far from comparable to the real M series rangefinder. I would suggest Leica to bring digital yellow patch focus to the next Q body. That will be a real game changer. In addition,the Q2’s lens is not ideal for focus by feel unfortunately as the throw between 6ft/2m and infinity is just too narrow. This is a waste of the top notch manual focus ring with tab. This actually must be fixed in Q3. Another annoying thing is that the the aperture ring and the shutter dial don’t sync in term of stop per click. Leica should just implement the M’s design by offering half stop per click to both. That will make the manual exposure operations much more seamless and cohesive. Combining with the tactile physical controls, photographers will know their exposure precisely by simply counting/feeling the clicks without needing to relying on anything displayed on the screen. That is actually one of the best and unique strengths the M system offers. Q should have adopted that! The current design ( 1/3 stop aperture ring, full stop shutter dial with +/- two 1/3 stops adjustment via the dial on the right customizable button) is a mess at best. You are right about the lens. It is actually more like a 25mm-ish lens. If someone found themselves struggleing with 28mm, they will not like to shoot with a even wider lens here. But the 25mm-ish lens can be a plus to many people who like to shoot wide. It makes pictures more dramatic and interesting than those shot with the “sometimes-boring” 28mm focal. Once you learn how to take advantage of Q's "28mm" lux, pictures usually come out nice and fun easily. If 25-ish focal length is too wide and you feel the scene is a little too busy and out of your control , use the crop mode ( especially the 35mm) you will feel you regain your control and everything will look right again. While the lens is not a true lux ( which should be f1.4) to me, the macro mode actually makes the lens even more useful than the real lux which can only close focus down to 0.7m. Other than those, I think Q2 is absolutely a top-notch fixed lens camera and is worth the money.

[@gerryphilpott9766]

Thanks as always for your honest and thorough experience video. I have the Q2 and love it. And in case you somehow get all the money in the world by middle of 2023, you might look at the 'rumored' Q3 which is supposedly going to have a 35mm fixed with the crop additions, and if it is like the new M11, they added the USB-C charger in that camera and I suspect it will be in all future releases. I'm fine with the 28mm as I almost always tweak the crop in post, but for the times I do JPG out of camera, the 35 and 50mm crop modes work well for me. I understand about the framelines, but I like them from my rangefinder experience. The original street photographers using rangefinders preferred them as you can more easily see what is coming into your frame. It's a personal choice thing but I like that. The beauty of all this is that there is a camera(s) for everyone including what images smartphones are producing these days. As you say, it's the enjoyment element that is most important. (Regarding "Leica Look" - I've also heard that micro contrast is part of the equation - again, it's a personal thing.)

[@Sevodoc]

Your street compositions inspire me in perfecting my journey in street photography. Thank you.....

[@patrickjclarke]

That BW Street Portrait is so good...my main question is how manual focusing is done in the VF? Is it a fake rangefinder patch like the Fuji?

[@ForeverBrooklynNYC]

No fake rangefinder patch; normal EVF with focus assist tools such as focus peaking and magnification

[@patrickjclarke]

@@ForeverBrooklynNYC hmmm. I need to try the X100’s fake rangefinder mode. My guess is it’ll still feel focus by wire disconnected

[@FaizalWestcott]

It’s not really a rangefinder. Just an offset evf with Framelines for the digital zoom

[@Reggiebphoto]

I'm a 28mm fanboy, so I'd love to try this camera out. Great video Faizal!

[@ivanaguero1050]

Really loved the old man portrait. Thanks for the vid!

[@ChalrieD]

Best camera I’ve owned but I did get an m11 with fast 21 and 50 mm. The q2 is used during family time and the m11 when dad gets to solo walkabout. Love both camera and having both. They are accessories to one another.

[@Tudor_Mateescu]

Wow the picture with the glass 10:38, great idee 👍📷

[@NohStar]

I picked up the leica q2 monochrome at the leica store here and instantly fell in lust. I am not a fan of 28mm either and could never afford it in a million years but this is just a comment for the algorithm

[@australianboy]

Nice of you to bring up the depth of field. Sure you can crop in on images, but it’s just not the same as actually shooting with a 50,70,85mm or even a 200mm. For what it is, a point and shoot, it seems nice. (Minus the price :(

[@benjhaisch]

the street portrait of that older gentleman was fantastic

[@samgerers]

Great video! Finally a camera reviewer who actually takes good (in your case amazing!) photographs!

[@domainadmin1679]

Your videos are so inspiring, so many good concepts. Your calm style means you can change up the content and it still feels cohesive. I hope you keep making them.

[@caskraker]

When on the street with my PEN-F and 12mm plus rectangular hood sometimes people ask if this is a Leica. It always sounds as a great compliment. For Leica.

[@GoodLifeInSpain]

The Q2 requires significantly more time than a quick rental to understand properly. It is not unusual for experienced photographers to shoot hundreds of frames on this Leica before having that 'aha' moment where everything clicks. I was honestly a bit disappointed on my first couple of outings, but then, everything gelled and I was suddenly in love with it. If you don't have the budget for this camera, but want a very similar experience, check out the Fujifilm X100V, it's an exceptional camera as well that will bring you much joy for many years.

[@zgw8]

I found this to be very true. Took me a few outings and now really love this little beast.

[@sonholee5769]

My understanding of the Leica look is the sharpness which in my understanding has to a lot to do with contrast and the say the fall off from focus to nonfocus elements are rendered as well as focus. This lens / camera does seem to produce the high contrast sharp photos. I know I would enjoy a Leica, but I can't justify the cost of them with my level of proficiency as a hobbyist and as a father of two growing girls. :P

[@hedydd2]

With TWO growing girls you will probably never afford a Leica. I know because my girl just got married. Wow! And I thought rearing her was expensive! You have a lot of expense ahead after they’ve grown up, believe me. 🙂

[@sonholee5769]

@@hedydd2 Yeah, I'm in denial of all that future expense. :P

[@xinsnake]

Fujifilm X100V does the digital zoom with the whole image in the EVF. It also does some interpolation instead of a simple crop. It also has wider and tele lens adapters to provide some flexibility. Probably worth giving it a try.

[@BenLomonRail]

He already has an X100V. The difference with it is that it only works in JPEG on the Fuji, while the Q2 can do it in RAW mode.

[@beksterxd170]

@@BenLomonRail x100v had a software update so now you can use digital tele converter with raw files also

[@BenLomonRail]

@@beksterxd170 News to me! I’ll have to give it a try on mine. 🙂

[@beksterxd170]

@@BenLomonRail go on i ve just yesterday realised that it is an option my 100v and its hella different when you try a 50mm look haha.Have fun!

[@thibwh]

honestly I've been looking for the leica q2, but after many video reviews i think the x100v is more practical than this one

[@noenken]

The difference between the Q2 lens and the Summilux is how the Q2 lens heavily relies on electronic corrections. If you open up an image in a RAW developer that does not apply the corrections included in the DNG (Darktable, RAWTherapee, ..) you will find that the outer most pixels in the corners of the sensor are not getting any light. Ever. Don't get me wrong, I still think the Q2 is a great camera. But the "OMG it's less than the Lux and you get a camera for free"-argument does not check out.

[@hedydd2]

As a Q2 owner and user I agree with most of your comments. However I don’t have a problem with the EVF. Neither do I prefer 50mm but I would prefer and do prefer 35mm lenses rather that the 28mm Leica that actually shoots a field of view nearer 24mm in practice. It is the most expensive camera I own but it’s not my favourite even though I like it very much indeed. I actually prefer my Sony A7III and Olympus E-M1 MkII for everyday use. Every one of us has different preferences though, so vive la difference!

[@camerafusion]

I love the old man photo!

[@josephgardner1310]

I actually disagree with the comment you make about getting this camera if you like shooting at 28mm. Initially I felt the 28mm was way too wide and contemplated selling my Leica Q more than once - I'm a long time 35mm shooter and just felt more comfortable at that focal length. However, something happens when you force yourself to use this lens for a while. You start to realize the versatility is greater than a 35mm. You have more room to include more in the frame but can just as well move closer and crop it out, or crop it in post.

[@glennpace9783]

I suspect the frame lines on the EVF are emulating the frame lines you get when viewing an M series through the range finder...you also get those frame lines. Familiarity for Leica users.

[@jaycasejaycase]

Appreciate this well explained dive into the functionality of this camera. Definitely gave me more to think about regarding button setup/placement that I didn’t realize and the EVF for zoomed focal length. Great insight, man. Thank you 🤟🏽

[@paulhills1967]

Really appreciate your honest opinions in this video. Thank you.

[@sirblund3r]

One comment as a relatively long-time Q2 owner regarding the battery and charging situation: It's really not an issue at all. I'm guessing the rental battery you got wasn't great to begin with. My battery (purchased new with the camera over a year ago) has always lasted me a full day and 700+ shots. Yes, the clunky charger is a pain in the ass, but once the battery is fully charged, you can comfortably leave for the day and not really worry about having to charge from an external battery.

[@97nelsn]

I tried it last month during a meet up MPB sponsored and WOW!!!! I now understand why people love this camera. I got one of the sharpest images I ever took thanks to this camera and it was the first Leica I tried (since the ones in Photoville always gets filled up before I get the chance to use one).

[@swissheartydogs]

Love my Fuji cameras & lenses, everyday, for all my photography 312456(street, landscape / handheld, on a monopod/tripod). Stunning primes: 16mm f1.4 (24eq), 33mm f1.4 (50eq), 50mm f1.0 (75eq).

[@endah08]

That portrait is incredible

[@FaizalWestcott]

Haha, thanks!!

[@naisanza]

Can you show the compression comparison from the 50mm crop vs 50mm prime?

[@laxativee]

I have had the Q2 Reporter now for a month or so. I do agree on the points made in the video but disagree on some. I for one love the viewfinder, but then again my previous EVF was the one on the first A7. There certainly is a certain kind of look to the images shot in color, but it's subtle. The only dislikes I have about the camera are minor; sometimes the software presumes youre still in the macro mode when youre not and the AF just won't focus past the macro distance. Also shutting down the camera and trying to quickly start it up again sometimes takes a few seconds which has made me lose some photo opportunities. Battery life is also just ok at best; at least one extra battery is needed for a full day out shooting street photography. The included lens hood is also abysmal and only after two weeks of use it got so loose that i'd rather not have it with me just to pick it up from the street from time to time. What I absolutely do love about the camera however is the simplicity to use; I thought Canon had that part nailed but the usability on this Leica is just so simple and intuitive. The images it produces are stellar, even in very bad light conditions and the light metering is just super smart with the auto iso feature. Shots at 1/30 are tack sharp with the included IS i would have thought didn't have any use. My wishes for the upcoming Q3 are minor things; An optional model with a 40mm focal length. USB-C somewhere on the camera for charging on the go. That's pretty much it.

[@Chazyfizzlez]

I would love a 35mm or 40mm option for the Q3! I would still upgrade from my current Q2 if they kept the 28mm but added the sensor from M11, better evf as well as usb-c charging.

[@RicPattison]

Hi , very informative video , thank you , I plan to contact the borrowing company in the morning , but maybe you could tell me , what kind of money do they require as a deposit of sorts , I see the weekly rate which is good , but not the insurance rate I’m sure they would require. Any help would be great , thanks .

[@petti304]

This video is amazing, even the ad! Keep it up!

[@macjim]

Although it’s a 28mm lens, due to its large sensor, it can be a 35, 50 & 70mm if you crop in as it has more than enough pixels to allow you to crop so much. So, in reality it can be whatever you want it to be… with the exception of sport and bird photography camera p. Just like the Fujifilm X100v, it has a fixed lens which can be: depending on the person, limiting or freeing the photographer to just enjoy taking images. The real reason for it not being a camera for everyone is… the price. The price is the elephant in the room for many as it’s a huge chunk of the camera. The price gets in the way of the decision making process of whether to buy one, and to keep one. But if you look at it in a long term way, it really can be a good investment for anyone to own… it’s built like a tank and the lens is superb which in the long run means the price can be looked beyond when deciding to own one… if you can find the money (there’s always loans to get around the immediate cost). I once upon a time owned an M9 and 35mm Leica lens… it it’s gone now. If I had the money, or if I could justify taking out a loan to buy one I’d do it in a heartbeat but at my time in life (and the way the world is right now) it’s beyond my means for now. I do recommend renting one though before purchasing… and under exposure the images.

[@hedydd2]

Each to their own but getting a loan to buy a Leica would be the last thing I’d do. If money is that tight there are far more important priorities than wasting money on interest and capital payments on an expensive luxury product. Paying for it on a loan rate that is fairly typical and over three years the $6000 camera will have cost nearer $8000 which is pishing $2000 down the drain. Honestly, a Q2 is for someone who has the cash to splash. Someone who has ‘made it’ or saved for it already.

[@SourPlanet]

I hope you realize that cropping is different from changing focal lengths.

[@emanonmuc7762]

Now i have the XF 16mm 2,8 and the Voigtlaender 23mm 1,2 X on my X-Pro3. That's why i sold my Q2.

[@the.jonfernandez]

Trying out a Leica m10/11 definitely sounds dangerous LOL

[@adamrara]

5:30 amazing shot

[@ericrjennings]

Shallow DOF is not the Leica look IMO. It’s tonality, sharpness, micro contrast, and lens character. I think the Leica lenses play a bigger role than the sensor

[@ashtonm725]

I was hoping someone would point this out, as shallow DOF has nothing to do with the brand of lens/camera, so it seems a rather odd to think that's what the Leica look is. I think you nailed what most people are talking about when they talk about the "Leica look"

[@carlosc.639]

The Fuji x100V also has digital zoom feature, and it works with the main lens and the adaptors

[@pnmcmahon]

1. I went back and forth on the q2 and when I did get it, it took me longer than a week to get acclimated and still requires a bit of a mental reset when coming from my Nikon Z shooting. 2. Your battery life experience is atrocious, then I noticed, a. you were taking most of your shots through the rear screen, effectively "chimping on the go" and b. You said you kept turning the camera on and off to preserve the life of the battery- this has the opposite effect. Cameras today go into a standby mode which is far better for battery life and shooting then turning it off and on. 3. Working with a locked in fixed lens can afford you such an amazing amount of creativity, and force you into the environment of your subjects, but it is something that takes significant time to develop. 4. The 28mm lens of the q2 is well documented as having an effective reach of 28mm post processing. Meaning, if you take a raw photo and open it in an editing software you will see a sliver of each side cropped out- this is to correct for distortions (kinda suprised you weren't aware of that) 5. Interesting photos- I agree with the rest that the street portraiture/bw processing is the best. I am disappointed by street photographers who say - I don't like shooting at xxmm focal length- it demonstrates a lack of creativity and curiosity. Every focal length will open a new world to you on the street. Also, looking at your "feet photo," - that had to have been heavily cropped. Likewise, the portrait of the smiling man would have lacked the environmental elements that help make it a compelling shot. One wonders whether you would have approached him to ask for a shot if you were using a longer focal length- I think not, because you would have been at a distance from him. Anyway- it is always good to know what we want! "Be curious, not judgmental."

[@enzovoortsribeiro]

I sold all my digital gear in feb-22 to buy the original Leica Q !! And im really happy I made the choice.. no more heavy equipment and I love the 28mm lens. I do use the crop also alot, the 50mm is pretty good actually.

[@Mars-si6gj]

i had q for about two years. still learning

[@TheArgentavis]

Finally! I’ve been anticipating this review ever since I saw your post on Twitter a couple of weeks ago 😄🙌

[@FaizalWestcott]

Twitter always knows first

[@Chazyfizzlez]

The frame lines are simply a nod to the M range finder cameras where you have frame lines in your view finder. A little gimmicky on the Q but i actually enjoy the novelty.

[@tomscott4438]

How did you handle the tendency for the Q2 to blow out the highlights. Also wondering if you shot anything at ISO over 1600. Beyond that I found them grainy and visually unuseable.

[@rich7e]

What is the name of the strap you are using of on the camera?

[@jameska488]

Like it ! The Leica new Q2 is very unique and outstanding tools.

[@henrikbratt]

Been wanting this camera for a long time and was very close buying one last year. Came to my senses and bought the X-Pro3 and using the 18f1.4 now. That combo makes me very happy and it’s probably the most comparable kit when it comes to the look of the images, would love to see a comparison with that kit and the Leica Q2. Haven’t found one and everybody likes looking at these types of videos. Waiting for you to make that comparison :) you could use the X-E4 with the 18f1.4 as well.

[@glenho1335]

Really bad experience with xpro3.. the shutter release is buggy as hell.. even on full manual with my manual focus lenses. It sometimes just didn't shoot for some weird reason.. missed tons of shots because of this.. and also.. take care of that flippidy LCD screen.. 😅😅😅 not even 6 months and mine died. Both the front and back screen. Blacked out... Got it fixed.. and quickly sold the unit off to cut my losses. Got a mint 5 year old Leica SL for that money instead and I've never looked back since. (;

[@brahzito]

I made the same exact decision. Got the xpro3 and have been using it for about 4 months now. I have a love and hate relationship with it. Sometimes the pictures come out so beautiful. Other times, the jpgs and the raws come out looking extremely horrible. I also don't know if i am doing something wrong, but when editing the photos in Lightroom, the raw photos still have the film sim on it. I wish it was just a clean raw to work with. I wish there was a setting to turn film sim off completely. I love the size and look of the xpro 3 but not sure what is happening half the time to the picture quality. Could be user error. No idea lol.

[@alhOOO2O]

@@brahzito If you're certain that you've shot in and are editing the raw, check the 'colour profile' tab above the exposure sliders - this is where you can add a film simulation to your raw image if you wish to, and you can also change it to the 'adobe default' colour settings.

[@henrikbratt]

@@glenho1335 Yes I have noticed that, but just when I set everything to manual and also shoots the focus manually, it could be some delay. But I rarely shoot in that way. Otherwise I´m really happy with the image quality and functions of this combination.

[@CurranBlevins]

I've been using the XE-4 with the 18mm F2 and absolutely love it. No issues so far, and love the ability to flip back and forth between the 18mm F2 and the kit lens I snagged with it 40mm f2.8.

[@-grey]

With such massive resolution, the 35mm mode in the Q2 is great. I wouldn't write it off for being too wide if you want tighter than 28mm. I could see people writing it off for not being a "true" 28mm though. 28mm shooters are serious about the exact angle of view of we would use a 24 and 35.

[@-grey]

The Leica look is just nice micro contrast with a 3D pop to in focus elements. Also, the in terms of colour they lean warm, with a Kodak feel.

[@DrZeeple]

It's the sharpness and the tones I feel --- like how old Nikons were in B&W too --- maybe I'll buy an X1 one day....

[@Dan-jg7zl]

I still have my D800 with Zeiss glass. Love it even in 2023. Has a lovely character to it.

[@franzst.664]

I’ve just realised how similar an X-E4 with the old 18mm F2 (and the hood!) looks. (I know not a fair comparison. But a poor man‘s Leica 🥰)

[@OttosTheName]

I'm not gonna pretend like I would never like to own a Leica, but The X-E4 with its usuable screen that fits the entire picture preview makes it far more practical if you ask me. Also tilty screen. Hip shooting and low perspective is pretty fun now and then. Or aiming the camera far up and doing interesting things with high buildings. Nobody's going to want to do that with a basically EVF-only camera.

[@mtv4008]

Xe4 is a legendary camera

[@Keckegenkai]

@@mtv4008 the sensor of the xe4 is for some reason worse than the sensor of the xe3 in high iso levels.

[@gunairy]

Really refreshing to hear someone talk objectively about a Leica camera instead of treating them like they’re flawless because they have a red dot on the front.

[@thejazzjaime]

I almost traded my xt4 and xpro 3 with 9 primes for the q2. So glad i did't do the trade. I love to isolate subjects and be flexible during weddings for example.

[@treharris1677]

Very wise decision not comparing X100v and Leica Q2. I own both and there's just no comparison.

[@GeraldGarcia]

Hi Faizal, I'll be traveling to Boston soon. Wanted to get your opinion on shooting etiquette there. Do people there in general don't mind a lens being pointed at them? Any "don'ts" I need to keep in mind?

[@JLStreetDoc]

28mm is a great focal choice, and with 47mp cropping is very doable, so that’s no excuse. It’s funny that you think that we have friends with a Q2 😂 I need more friends like you have!! I don’t even know any photographers. 😢 Also, the framelines are great because like in a rangefinder you can see the subject approaching your frame. And I heard the viewfinder is incredible. Regardless if they now make better, it’s still an amazing viewfinder.

[@ka_sh_iif]

Been waiting for this! 🍿

[@thecream332]

great video Faizal

[@StrangelyIronic]

The only way I would ever use this type of combo would be 35mm crop, and even then, I prefer 40-45mm WAY more than 35, so I'd just try to imagine the 50mm or 35mm framing guides while using the other to figure out composition. Basically, every other camera I know of will do the zoom in crop feature, my Olympus cameras do it, Fuji does it, Sony does it I think...it's just the pay way more for way less Leicas that don't. I kind of get their goal though, it comes off more like the rangefinder framing guides for the different lenses while having the full field of view. I feel like that was what they were planning for from the beginning and is the only reason they put in such a high-resolution sensor. They wanted this camera to basically be a box of primes digital rangefinder style camera without having a protruding zoom lens with snap zoom like the LX100 and other compacts. I actually like that...I don't like the price. I could care less what people say the lens is worth, when you compare shots, or hell I've compared fairly large prints, the different is next to nothing compared to something much less expensive. The combination is very worth in Leica world, but I'm the definition of cheap, and Leica throws the notion of diminishing returns out the window because they know people will buy it regardless just like a brick with supreme on it.

[@joelbernard1893]

where is that strap from?

[@janromo9753]

Great Vid Faizal! Def try an M body with a 50mm summilux, very fun!

[@paulgrosse7631]

Why not compare it with the D-Lux 7? When you get to zooming in, you have better pixel counts and no need for interpolation as the sensor and your image stay the same size. Also, on the D-Lux 7 you can process your RAW images with different criteria so your work flow can be: take the pic; process the raw; let FOTOS grab it from your camera with WiFi then email it to your editor all in-situ. The Q2 can't do that as I understand it - to fine tune the JPEG. you have to take another shot or travel to a computer to do it.

[@johnnychin4777]

If money wasbt a oroblem, will you get Q2 or single equivalent lens on Hasselblad X2D?

[@mirza1bac]

X100v is the king. It’s got a price point where more photographers can own it

[@SidVidZid]

I really wanna get this camera, but it’s crazy out in the streets of big US cities.

[@0zymanndias773]

You’d be surprised how many ppl just don’t look lol

[@sultanabran1]

if you've shot with an M camera, you'd know why the framelines do what they when you change focal lengths.

[@ZoCineStreet]

Thank you Faizal!

[@avilesluissolano]

Thanks for getting a cool sponsor, definitely going to try them out.

[@JessDemant]

Great review, thanks 😊👍

[@cybebe6679]

People who has experience using an analog camera will appreciate this more.

[@JeevesTCW]

You have a great eye for a picture nice work. I like to think of the "leica look" as a contrasty image with a 3d look if that makes any sense.

[@jokfly]

The lens is superb... truly amazing quality. I feel like it's wider as well. I just crop to 35 or 50 when I need to and the compression is very similar to a prime lens.

[@SourPlanet]

Wait.. the compression? It's just a crop, right? Is there some Leica magic that creates the impression of compression? Honestly asking cause that sounds awesome.

[@jokfly]

@@SourPlanet No magic. It's only a crop, but people blow that out of proportion a lot in my opinion making it seem that a crop is totally different from the "feel" or look of a prime. I have used the primes and compare, the images are different but for me, not enough to make the difference. The IMAGE looks similar to primes when I compare, for myself I only care about the end product and the image is superb.I never feel I wish I had the prime because the crop isn't as good.

[@SourPlanet]

@@jokfly Oh, ok. Leica does some things with their glass that honestly feels like magic sometimes ha. So I was just checking. For me there is a massive difference in background compression and spatial depth per focal length, so I'll stick to other solutions. Still want to pick up a Q one day, though. I do crop for composition reasons a lot and I just love the idea that you get to see the crop frame right on the LCD screen. Genius move.

[@jokfly]

@@SourPlanet if you're a professional then their will be a significant difference. I use this camera for travel and family stuff. Otherwise, I have my primes with Sony a7r3 for landscape work, but honestly the g-master zooms are so nuts I don't even reach for primes with my work flow very often anymore.

[@SourPlanet]

@@jokfly Totally agree. I'm on A7R3 with 16-35/2.8 a lot of the time. Still a killer combo. Yes thats a good point about the Q for general use, where crop zoom is totally fine. I hadn't thought about it that way. Don't make me cross off reasons to not buy the Q from my list. My wife's ears will perk up.

[@DecentGatsby]

_Honestly, in my opinion, the best digital fixed lens camera_ : *Rollei 35* Not a lot of people will agree but those people haven’t lived a minute.

[@nicoles.6694]

Really TOP review! The Leica stands for her own… but I personally like the Fuji x100v or the Ricoh GR III(x) more 🤪 what would you say??? Kind regards, Nicole (photo.enthusiastin) 🙋🏽‍♀️

[@ElmarJournal]

Q2 much more make sense than Q, Q series already not a really 28mm camera, more like 24mm, and 24mp Q1 when in crop mode some image got a bit washed out especially wide open, but with larger sensor this camera become a very versatile

[@Jaywestend]

Is "Point and Shoot" derogatory to "Fixed Lens" cameras?! Love your videos man!

[@borisharold]

I think people should stop comparing this Q series with the fuji 100 series , as much as its tempting.. yes the image quality might not be 10 times better with Leica ( also it is that little bit better in my opinion , specially when Leica glass catches that perfect light , then it becomes quite magic and palpable .) but it is mainly the feel and the experience that differentiate them once for good . I personally never like my X100f focus by wire . never felt like a " real camera when in manual focus mode . colour science is also very subjective and fuji colours have always felt nice but not always perfectly true where the Q gives that pure reality . ( if that makes sense ) . comparing fuji cameras and Leica is like comparing Rolex and swatch , BMW m3 to Lamborghini , yes they give you the time yes they get you there , but it is how they do it and how it makes you feel about it that make a massive difference . not everyone cares about having more functions , more options more sharpness etc. Leica cameras make only sense for people interested in simple tools that feel good to hold , that make them feel like going out and make photographs.

[@Unknownresident621]

exactly - the whole 'Apple Watch/Rolex' argument is relevant - one offers a thousand more functions than the other. I know which I'd prefer. In the same way, my Nikon DSLR hardly ever gets grabbed if I'm going for a walk - my Leica M/Q do however. And if a camera makes me want to use it more and shoot more, then that makes me a better photographer over time. I've tried (and owned a Sony before). Shooting a Sony felt like shooting a computer. A Leica feels like a camera.

[@malfuaditya]

quality as always

[@DrewWillson]

too clean- thanks for sharing your thoughts

[@lispbar]

If you use a crop mode, then the camera also limits measurements to the crop area