Leica Q3 43: Ur-Leica for the 21st Century? I'm Running Out of Superlatives.

[@mileswashington9078]

Whenever a new Leica is announced, I'm almost more excited for Hugh's review than I am for the camera itself... hold THAT thought...

[@3BMEP]

🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@easygoingbutgoing]

Hugh is absolutely the king of articulate , entertaining , and persuasive advocacy for Leica I am aware of …….. hold that thought…. I switched my order for the Q3 to the Q3 43 today . Probably means more months than I had expected ….started out with a Yashica and 50 mm fixed lens in 1967 . In a way , considering my advances in life , is a bit of a full circle

[@3BMEP]

@@easygoingbutgoingwhat a lovely memory. Enjoy your ‘43; thanks so much for your generous sentiment! 😊🖖🏻

[@Shunjut]

But that’s just me.

[@gletschertroll]

I feel exactly the same :-)

[@Stickybutton]

Sold my left kidney for the M11D. Looks like the right one has to go too!

[@3BMEP]

🤪

[@simonkimber1152]

My 11-d is arriving in a couple of days…. Still think you made the right choice

[@AdamMuise]

Right? Space these hits out Leica. The m11-d and q3 43 are basically my long awaited “perfect for me” cameras

[@stephenvallera]

The Jeff Goldbloom of camera review aficionados. Honestly love how these are put together and the tone of voice balanced with facts / experienced POV. With the “eyes and back” tax I’m paying for shooting with the M10-P Safari - despite my love of its look - I may just have to sell it to grab the Q3-43.

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@ZenoWatson]

Hugh is Leica's ultimate salesman. And I mean that in a good way.

[@kindface]

Yours is the only photography channel where almost no photos are shown and most certainly the only one where there's nothing else on screen (apart from yourself) for the entirety of 30 min. And yet, it's my no. 1 channel on photography. Maybe it's got something to do with efficiency: I get to satiate my intellectual and photographic appetite at the same time. Thanks so much.

[@3BMEP]

Hmmm… thanks? 😊🖖🏻

[@kindface]

@@3BMEP Hahaha....can't recall how that last sentence got into the mix. Must be the beer. But you know what I mean. (Here to rewatch the video 👍🏽)

[@neilford5262]

Cr*p! I never thought a Q3 would be on my radar because 28mm just isn’t how I see the world, but this gets a whole lot closer. Oh boy! 😀

[@3BMEP]

😂👊🏻

[@Dahrenhorst]

Well, I think one must have been in the financially very privileged bubble of long time Leica users to be able to call a 7,000 USD camera astonishingly low priced. The unique selling point of Leica cameras is not in the realm of photography, but in the realm of high precision technical instruments designed to capture light on micrometer pixels in the most perfect way for those who don't look at photographic art, but at pixels of digital imaging. What actually also goes back to Leica's roots of microscopic imaging, where technical perfection in showing the smallest parts of an object is the aim.

[@stevenqirkle]

Hugh acknowledges that he is privileged in the video, and lists a number of less expensive alternatives that could give in a similar (and in some aspects better) experience. What do you want him to do? Withhold his true feelings about the camera for fear of upsetting the less privileged? I don’t want that.

[@larrykenner8095]

I understand but also remember buying my first Black paint m4 in 1972 because a new one was a quarter of the price of a new car. It’s a precision instrument that inspires passion. So I’ll eventually pick up a Q3 43 and travel the world with it. And also somehow convince myself that 250 dollars for a spare battery is reasonable.

[@briangc1972]

If you lived in NYC and paid what they pay for rent and living expenses, you would understand. People earn more there because it costs more to live there compared to 95% of the US; similar to San Francisco. Wages and costs are skewed; which skews a persons perception of expensive or not.

[@christopherbgriffith]

Oh, how unfortunate for my wallet. :D The primary thing keeping me from the Q3 is that 28mm just isn't my jam most of the time. But I love the 40-50mm focal range. I'm pretty seriously tempted...

[@3BMEP]

😎

[@ccbphoto]

It was so surreal to look up at a TV screen in the Leica store today just as I was making my purchase of the Q3 43! It was an omen of good fortune! Great portrait of your mother!

[@3BMEP]

Thanks, Craig!I love that image because every time I look at it, I see in it everything I have known her to be.

[@drc4563]

High you’ve topped your superlatives in this one….Wonderful review. Wonderful photos. A joy to listen to. Thank you!

[@shane9634]

According to the title its actually superatives

[@Penjerrix]

Well said. The spirit of Leica. My Grand Dad had several Leica from a III he bought in 1934 to IIIf with 50mm and 35mm. The 43mm is between the two. Well done Leica. Your B&W in your video is just gorgeous.

[@3BMEP]

😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@jurrevandermeer4857]

Great review! Bought a Q3 and the 28mm took some getting used to but I love it now! 43mm also seems great but I probably cannot justify having both and seeing this and other reviews I think I'll stick to the 28mm, purely because I like the challenge and the unique look it gives my pictures😊

[@RegrinderAlert]

Getting a good composition at “28mm” is really satisfying and makes your pictures stand out, I agree. The focal length itself however is closer to a 24mm than to a true 28mm and is basically what a standard iPhone camera sees - so basically the least unique FOV(!) in existence

[@JinsungVideo]

I love your implicit earnestness and love for finding the ‘best’ detail Hugh Laurie Grant!

[@3BMEP]

😉🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@soholingo]

Outside of the sponsor notice, this is the most intriguing/enjoyable intro/prologue to any of your videos. Couldnt wait to hear your take on this canera

[@davidcorbin9786]

Hugh, great discussion and great introduction to the camera. I always appreciate the context you provide in your analysis.

[@3BMEP]

Thanks, David!🖖🏻

[@jpvellotti743]

Tasty camera but even tastier jazz background music. Thx Hugh.

[@3BMEP]

😊👊🏻🖖🏻

[@dillank3240]

I have to agree!

[@RBusinessSchool]

Your images have a beautiful, artistic character that I don't often see anymore. I realized recently that I left my first love and started pursuing technical photography which is simply not beautiful most of the time. I never quit selling prints, but I looked at my work recently and thought, "There has to be something better than this." I don't care if I ever sell another one. I'm going back to my first love, even if she's old like me. I've shipped in a mountain of equipment and glass, and I am currently trying to settle on the last platform I will use in what remains of my photographic journey. The camera is just a tool, but having the right tool for the job is still important.

[@3BMEP]

Thanks so much for your encouragement and for sharing a bit of your story. What a wonderful audience we have here!

[@bondgabebond4907]

Two best photos by far. 1. The pink-hair man with the skeleton. Brilliant. 2. Your mom. Bless you for including her in this video. She looks great, which means you are either in your 60s or breaking into your 70s. Not one tout a certain brand, I have shot with a Pentax F, Canon FTB, Yashica 645, Mamiya 6x7 (never should have sold it) and Nikon F2. Now firmly with Sony, but that doesn't matter. The old cameras all produced great images. It's the person who determines the worth of the image regardless of camera. Keep pumping skill with examples, please. Too many pushes product, not how to get unique images.

[@cameraz99]

Thanks for the shout-out to the Panasonic GX85 with the Pan/Leica 15mm f1.7 lens. I have gotten some great shots with this combo, and produced beautiful 20"x30" prints.

[@3BMEP]

😉🖖🏻

[@hanumanguy]

Me too. Actually won an award at an art show with a print made with the GX85 and the 15 mm!

[@Mamo878]

Sure, but in the end it’s the images you capture and the stories they tell. You DO NOT need any Leica to do exactly that.

[@3BMEP]

Yep!😊🖖🏻

[@tonypulido8127]

I keep repeating this to myself but it's not working.

[@DianInHerOrb]

Very true, however using a Made in Germany Leica is a fulfilling experience in its own right, the engineering and build quality is sublime. Like owning a sports car, it offers a lot more than just getting to your destination, but you probably should also have a more practical car in the garage as well. 😊

[@brettsinclair8974]

maybe but using a Sony is an horror

[@michaelcibula9552]

Hugh, great video. Also wanted to say I just installed your Helium grip on my Q3 and the ergonomics are fantastic. Considering going w the 43 and selling my 28, great that the new grip will work. Well done!

[@3BMEP]

Oh, Michael - you’ve made our day! So glad you like it - and you saw just how beautifully it works in this video with the ‘43 (if you looked closely)! For Ed and myself: thanks man, for trusting us to deliver what we set out to deliver. 😊🙏🏻👊🏻🖖🏻

[@jamesbarron5590]

Great review as always and Thank you for helping cool down the gear acquisition syndrome by mentioning alternatives that I already own. But this is the Leica I will eventually get. The 43 will be a great seller.

[@hanumanguy]

Hugh I always appreciate that you present alternatives at different price points and also being sensitive in presenting luxury or premium products in times when many people in the world are facing dire situations. I am over in the cheap seats with a Lumix GX85 and the 15 and 25 panleica lenses all from MPB and ebay and as happy as a pig in mud.

[@kaneclements7761]

Hi Hugh. A great review. A brilliant camera. Personally, of late, I have largely given up on watching gear reviews. Outside of a very long lens for wildlife the kit I have fulfils my needs and the quality exceeds my talent. Putting you and Claudia aside, I wonder how many purchasers will have the ability to produce images that will do justice to the capability of the Q3? I concluded a while back that 'gear' is a distraction in some ways. Inspiration and opportunity, a good creative eye combined with a decent camera and suitable lens(es) plus the means and ability to print (in my case at least) good images using a professional grade printer is a holistic approach of an end to end practice. I guess that essential message is that expensive gear can't replace talent.

[@johnkasianowicz6536]

Hugh, I decided against pre-ordering a Q3/43 yesterday (frankly, I have much more photo kit than I deserve), but some of your comments here made me reconsider. I loved my Q2M (regrettably sold it), but the new Q3/43 provides new opportunities in simplicity and IQ. In the Macro mode at the closest focusing distance, the reproduction ratio in the Q3/43 should be nearly identical to that in the Q3/28, which I find most attractive. I miss the Q’s easy to use Macro feature in my M11, M11 Monochrom, CL, and SL2 (yes, I can use a Macro-Adapter-M, etc.). In the Q3/43, the distortion should be sufficiently small that accurate wide-angle photos can be made by stitching together multiple shots taken at different angles (on a tripod for best results of course). A few questions for you: in desaturated shots, do you know if the low-light performance and acutance (apparent sharpness or resolution) compares well to those in the Q2M? Ditto for the M11 Monochrom.

[@3BMEP]

Hey, John. Monochrom will be Monochrom (no news flash there). The question is - always: what can’t you do with what you’ve got that you can with the latest object of fascination. In your particular case, the answer is not much! But the equivalent of a weather sealed, better EVF- equipped, articulating screen-equipped, lens IS-equipped ,autofocusing M makes (for me) a brilliant main camera because by my M11 with Super-Elmar 18/3.8 and APO Skopar 90-2.8. 😊🖖🏻

[@johnkasianowicz6536]

@@3BMEP The Q3’s weather sealing (over the M11s), its articulating screen (kneeling to get some shots is getting almost as old as me), its ability to use “real” manual focus (not focus by wire as in the SL2, which works but . . . ) or autofocus, image stabilization (I wish I didn’t need this), and more convenient Macro mode are very compelling features. I think twice (ok, 3x) about going out with my M11s or CL in inclement weather, and the SL2 is not as compact as the M11s or Q cameras. I really miss the feel of my Q2. It felt more like my old film SLRs than any other camera I have, and I really like that. I’m not knocking M rangefinders, but I need to use a +2.0 diopter corrector, and clean the darn thing often because I have very long eyelashes. I usually use the VisoFlex2 EVF to get around that issue, but that makes things less simple. This certainly isn’t a must-have camera for me. However, I’m not 40 anymore, and playing with different high-quality cameras brings real pleasure to me. I feel that I don’t have enough time left to play with and test different kit over a longer period.

[@fromia1]

I need someone to compare this with the 40mm G on the A7CR.

[@leitz1]

Interesting.

[@1946gsp]

I thought Hugh did…at least in passing.

[@Abc1987]

I would also check out an a7cr in person and see if you like it. I nearly picked one up given this common spec comparison and have no doubt IQ is amazing. Personally, the EVF and rear screen were deal breakers- worse than I anticipated even with a low expectation.

[@Marcopereira]

The cr win… the leica is a luxury brick, amazing how the big complaints on other cameras at leica are seen as quality, at least by some!! They must be paid for this or else something has affected their brain....

[@r.dereksmith4316]

Love the music, makes the images even better,... Well done.

[@3BMEP]

Much appreciated! 🙏🏻😊🖖🏻

[@davesaunders59]

Thanks Hugh for another fantastic review. I’m a Q2 owner and I absolutely love the camera. Certainly I’ll struggle to afford the Q3 43 but I’m happy to struggle and make sacrifices because the camera is amazing and Leica is well, Leica. See you on the streets, regards Dave

[@3BMEP]

😊👍🏼🖖🏻

[@johannesschroeder5117]

Hello,Hugh, as a German Hobby Photographer with a different vendor equipment this video catches me. It is like in the beginning a commercial for Leica, but then you explained very clear the advantages of this new Leica model in your way ❤. I was shooting the last years more or less on the streets of Berlin, Munich, New York, Paris and Rome. But all the time thinking of having one kit to run through the city and catch the Moment in a picture, thank you for this great video. Best regards from Germany

[@3BMEP]

Thank you for joining the conversation, Johannes. 😊🖖🏻

[@michaelf7742]

The difficult question is whether to go for 28 or 43…

[@robertthompson240]

Good morning! Just received the Q3 but was wondering about your thoughts on the new Q3 43 for Street photography?? Pros? Cons? Any opinion would be appreciated. Thx!

[@3BMEP]

It’s KILLER for street photography!

[@kenmonahan9924]

Hi Hugh have my camera now and other than the hood issue this is something you might want to share in a video. I could not transfer my profiles from Q3 to Q3 43. I asked Leica and they gave me this solution and it works! there is a way to transfer settings from the Q3 28 to the Q3 43: “Save the settings file and open it with a simple text editor. The second line states the camera: "Camera":"LEICA Q3", or "Camera":"LEICA Q3 43", Simply remove or add the " 43" ("SPACE43") and the profiles can be used on either camera. Please make sure the text editor does not add anything else to the file.” Hope this is helpful! Best Ken

[@3BMEP]

Thanks so much, Ken! 😊🖖🏻

[@OpenDGuitar]

It is an exquisite camera. I can’t afford it. My hope is that the Q2 and original Q3 will come down a bit in the used market to make one of those attainable. But that’ll take a while.

[@Vvvrrrmmm]

Could have added one more advantage to the list if Leica had chosen to, integrated optical and digital view finder. If only

[@gletschertroll]

I got mine the day before yesterday (Sept 26th) the day it was presented officially, I actually own one of the first few in my country. I already love it very much, complements the Q2 28 I also have. For sports, wildlife, etc. I use my Nikons (much, much faster AF), but for street the Q3 43 is unbeatable. The lens is breathtakingly good!

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy!-

[@norwegianoutdoors4437]

Great review! I have the original Q and I love it. It has a superbly sharp lens on a beautiful, functional and engaging camera body. I have used it a lot, despite 28mm not being my favorite all around focal length. A few years ago I was using the K-1 with the Pentax FA Limitied 43mm f/1.9, which has that 3d pop or "pixie dust" as the Pentaxians say. This made me familiar with the lovely focal length, and I'm the kind of guy who can't decide if I love 35mm or 50mm more. So when they launched this kit, I cancelled my $6000 order of the SL APO 35, and ordered the $8000 Q3 43 apo. It's as you say a nice package. Let's say the lens is worth $6000 as the SL 35 apo (despite being smaller even), then you get a 60 mpx German built Leica camera with phase detection af and far beyond decent video in a small EDC package for the remanining $2000? And you never get a ff camera from Leica for $2000 new. Long story short, I have ordered it ;)

[@3BMEP]

Good call. Enjoy! Mine arrived a couple of days ago, but I’m only opening later today. Hold that thought. 😉

[@eyemodeo]

Great..Let's hope this camera doesn't freeze. I'd love to buy one but very cautious..In the meanwhile I'll stick with the Barnack 35mm film cameras which seem to be more dependable.

[@kylemeck1715]

I'm happy to see Leica making things like this. I dont think I'll cancel my X100VI order for it, but I love the idea of a fixed normal lens and an IP rating.

[@stevenj2380]

Much more positive sounding look at this new Q, than I just read at DPR.

[@3BMEP]

Sure - different people!

[@olly1oo6]

Gorgeous camera, and I love my original Q. I take it everywhere. But it still only has one card slot and zero redundancy. So it will forever remain a hobby camera. It just cannot be used for professional work where redundancy is necessary.

[@michaelherskovitz4203]

APO “love-child” - that’s one for the ages. Enjoyed the review very much. Don’t know if I’m ready to give up my current Q3, but this is intriguing !

[@hotlippsmartin]

Thank you for another wonderful review I love the way you use the language Your photos are adorable

[@iaincphotography6051]

How dare Leica produce this Camera, like others I didn't want the Q3 with its 28mm lens, now it has a 43mm AGH! My only hope is that they sell out quickly.

[@3BMEP]

😎

[@stevenqirkle]

Not something I would buy personally, but nonetheless excited to see Leica come out with a camera that is sure to please its intended audience, at a price that is at least attainable for many (though still absurdly expensive from my perspective). I’m glad that Leica is still out there doing their own thing, and the stars really seemed to be aligned for them right now with the current fixed lens camera renaissance.

[@grjlynch]

Oh I so love your videos, I bought my Q3 after you review. If I had magic pixie dust then I would have a Q4 with a 28-43 lens and because of the pixie dust it would the lens would be as good at 28mm and at 43mm as both Q3 variants. I sold my R5 and several lenses when I realised that my knackered back meant that I left my camera bag at home most of the time, instead pocketing my X1100V. I watched your video and hey presto the Q3 arrived. I know that there were times when I wish I had my ultra wide or super long lens with me, but most of the time I didn’t. I had chosen my ‘wide’ lens and accepted that there would be compromises (and if I needed to get closer I used my ‘walkie-zoom’ or cropped in post). The Q3 is a beautiful camera and clearly buying both would be daft. Neither one is better than the other, it’s about whether you are happy with the focal length that best supports the pictures you take most of the time and accept the compromises you will have to make with a fixed lens camera when you need to go wider or closer. Until I find that bag of pixie dust, I am happy with the decision I have made. Keep up with the stunning films snd sharing your pictures, they are inspiring.

[@3BMEP]

I hear you! Thanks for such a lovely contribution to the discussion! 😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@ianforber]

Great video. I’ve just put my M11, 50mm Summicron and CV 35mm f1.5 up for sale because I didn’t enjoy using them as much as my Q2. When I was using them, I gravitated towards the 35mm. I’m not sure if 43mm is for me so I’ll keep the Q2 for now but when I come to replace it, it might be a close call to get the Q43 instead. Regardless of focal length, I always crop the hell out of my pics so maybe it doesn’t really matter.

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@JordanAnthonyMagtoto]

Would there be a situation where one would use both q3s, dual wielding e.g event photography/reportage? I’m contemplating sl3 as I need the focal range to replace xh2s

[@3BMEP]

I believe so; on my list to explore as we have both and I like the idea. But I also own an SL3 with APO 90 and Super-Elmar 18 and Elmar 24 to bracket either one.

[@davidmathar7339]

Its a pure joy for the mind to listen to your eloquent reviews (in harsh contrast to some other folks here). And needless to say, my q343 is about to arrive tomorrow ;)

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy, David - and thank you for your kind words! 😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@paulboskerphotography]

Will you be keeping both the 28 and 43? Or does the 43 replace your 28?

[@3BMEP]

Keeping both for now. 😊

[@erikgrossman]

I bought the Q3, my first Q; loved the camera but not the focal length. I was always cropping to 35 or 50. Sold the Q3 and the Q3 43 arrives tomorrow. This camera will be perfect for my needs.

[@Stickybutton]

Congrats!

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy!

[@donsoley746]

I do so enjoy these insights into how things came about - great stuff!

[@hanshomesteading1276]

A good 2 weeks ago I bought a Ricoh GRIIIx, because my 28mm Leica Q was 'too wide'. I am very happy with the 40mm and it makes me realize how good a Leica Q3 43 could fit my needs. at the same time I am in doubt, for the same money I can enter the Leica M arena with a good second hand unit.

[@3BMEP]

Wonderful decision to be able to ponder! 😊🖖🏻

[@ulyssesnathanialowen3831]

Hasselblad has been using 80 mm on 6*6 for years which is 42/43mm on 35mm equivalent , its great to see the other quality camera manufacturer embrace this focal length ... as a hassle/leica film shooter 80mm and 35mm lengths mostly , 42/43 is a very balance length and a great alternative to 35mm or 50mm you get the best of both ..

[@3BMEP]

Yes!

[@gvz1538]

Of course you already ordered one; enjoy the journey (while we enjoy the reviews and the perspectives)!!

[@3BMEP]

😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@chrisloomis1489]

Still treasure my ROLLEI WIDE 55mm F4 DISTAGON as my baby , and 8 years ago ...long before this discovery , I was shooting in Vietnam , with the Voightlander 40mm 1.4 Classic and with the A7s2 SONY captured amazing images , the tiles glistening and in sharp relief pop right out from the canal around the Citadel in HUE , that I shot in the evening sun. Besides ; I have the SL3 Leica , and until I proof my Voightlander , Leica , A. Schact Ulm , and fine vintage Canon L39 lenses .... what other's may call junk , I will hold off from the fettish and compulsion to leap at eloquence , my two M's and the SL3 are fine for my desires right now , and the best image is the image calling out to you that is not always the crazy sharpest or most contrast. The Old Canon lenses , the DR Summicron F2 and others I posses suit me fine for the time. In the end : Learn to use fully what you have , be grateful and then after you have learned your tools .... well , maybe then leap over that canyon's edge.

[@3BMEP]

Eloquent enough for me! 👍🏼😊🖖🏻

[@kenmonahan9924]

Sheesh Hugh, your videos always give me the GAS! I ordered mine this morning to join my others…….🥴 sooooo excited!😊

[@3BMEP]

So sorry! 😉🖖🏻

[@pothast]

Just like the Q3 43 this review is pure flex ... love it! Thank you :)

[@3BMEP]

Hah! 😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@benjhaisch]

Always love hearing your takes, Hugh. Especially on Leica :)

[@3BMEP]

Hey Benj! Right back at you!

[@drc4563]

Now a Q. Why did Leica go with a Summilux on the 28mm and an APO Summicron for the 43mm? Might not one have expected the reverse? Use a faster lens for longer focal length lens more suited to portrait photography and use the APO for sharpness in landscapers that one might naturally gravitate to the 28mm. Thoughts? Q2 - would you buy both the Q3s instead an M11 with top 28 and 50mm lenses? 🙂

[@3BMEP]

Size, weight and cost. Definitely the right call in my book. At the moment, I’m thinking the ‘43 (which arrived yesterday) is my primary street camera, either bracketed by my M11 with Voigtländer APO Skopar 90 on the long end because it’s so light and small, the elmar 24 or super-Elmar at the wide end. But I just may end up carrying both Qs and calling it a day. Although the 24 is my favorite lens on the m11, and I’ll see just how much reach I need beyond a reasonable crop on the ’43. As I said: my eyes and back aren’t what they used to be!

[@cam7432]

As of yesterday, my local Leica store is predicting maybe a 2-3 month wait for the Q3 43.

[@Boxer1250RT]

The original Q with the Stunning 28mm Summilux is a far better 1 camera fits all than the Q3 with 43mm lens. For the last 7 years the Q has been my travel companion around the world. I’d never leave home with a 43mm lens to a place like Iceland I may never get a chance to go again.

[@trevorpayne2749]

My new dream camera and probably destined to stay that way.

[@3BMEP]

It’s OK: there are SO many great options out there, and the single most important piece of kit is neither hardware nor software, but wetware: it’s you. 😊🖖🏻

[@savrah]

Yes but Q3 can do what Q3 43 cant do.

[@Erick_Pentax]

De plus sur le 28 le crop de 35mm donc le centre de l’objectif est un meilleur qu’un apo 43.

[@andreas_trnka_photography]

I loved the 43mm on my 645z, now I use the Voigtländer 40mm 1.2 on my SL2S and the Q3 for 28mm. I m not sure about the new Q with 43 ...

[@marcusoutdoors4999]

I’ve an SL 601 which is made for the Voigtlander 40mm f1.2, there’s something just right about that combination.

[@NotAnotherChannel_Channel]

Here for the great tunes and superb photography.

[@3BMEP]

😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@PaulVotava]

Can’t get too excited about a camera I can’t afford. But I can sure squeeze a lot out of the ones I can!

[@baileyjr36]

Ordered day one. Can't wait for mine to arrive..

[@DA-yd2ny]

Who wouldn’t buy a Leica if affordable? A Leica is not a camera; it is a monument, it is a piece of art …... I can’t afford one but am happy for anyone who can. ENJOY, brother

[@peterfritzphoto]

Thanks for this, Hugh. My D-Lux 8 just arrived yesterday, and now this … Oh dear.

[@3BMEP]

😎

[@georgem5589]

Another gem of a video, thanks Hugh! Fav part -> 22:30

[@3BMEP]

😊👊🏻

[@1946gsp]

I went from thinking: what? no. are you crazy, to heeeey. Wait a minute, there. What I want to know is whether you were ever turned down by a woman you were dating? your power of persuasion is pretty persuasive.

[@3BMEP]

You’re pretty funny! 😊🖖🏻

[@alanjones3076]

I have always run my Q2 in crop mode to get close to my second fave cam of all time, CL with 40 cron. This Q is almost perfect for me as my fav portrait focal is 60mm. So base for everything and crop for portraits! I hate flip screens but what ya going to do. lol I’ll take one.

[@DAVCOHPHO]

As ALWAYS, awesome, wonderful and highly informative clip. I quote and refer to you very often in my own videos. Thanks so much! 😀

[@3BMEP]

Glad to be of service! 😊🖖🏻

[@mahdimanesh4221]

Thx for the detailed impressions! How do you see this compare to a Hassy 55mm? Just asking for a friend ;-)

[@paulanderson24]

I’ve been saving for q3 as a 40th birthday gift to myself. Now I’m torn. On trips I usually carry an M Monochrom (original) and a GR3x

[@leitz1]

Oh boy now I've done it. This is a followup to my comments below. One of the nice features of the digital age is thanks to "meta" encoding in the files software can remember what lens you used even when you can't. Well I've used a number digital cameras over the years. The Leica Digilux 2 (bulky but good). The Contax TVS digital and another whose name I can't recall that had an optical "waistfinder' viewfinder that worked like the Kodak Brownie Hawkie. One of my favorites was the Lumix G1 when it came out which I bought. While its evf was grainy as hell the physical dimensions and the layout of the camera were relatively close to the M6 which I had had (whose days as technology marched relentless onward I realized were numbered. After Leica announced, rather adamantly I might add, that a digital M would not be possible I sold my M and the fine lenses I had with it prior to this. (Of course who knew Leica would eat those words!) Anyway I got the G1 with two lenses: A rather okay zoom and the f1.7 20mm "pancake" which made the G1 a very low key camera to use. It's images were superb. Over the years I collected my favorite shots in various folders classified by sensor size. After watching your fabulous review I did an experiment. How many of the shots taken with the G1 were preferred when taken with the 20mm pancake. In fact most of my best shots were taken with that lens. I got my answer. Again many thanks for your enlightening (as always) review. Now to find a black market for a kidney or two.

[@3BMEP]

Thanks for such a thoughtful addition to the discussion. Make sure to keep at least one kidney, preferably both! 😉🖖🏻

[@johnhoey7717]

Love this channel, Hugh.

[@3BMEP]

Happy to be of service! 😊🖖🏻

[@alfredgeorgebailey2064]

Another great review Hugh..!

[@3BMEP]

ALFRED! 😍👊🏻

[@cyrilhamel8289]

Excellent introduction !! 😊👍🏻

[@3BMEP]

😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@thebitterfig9903]

I’m a 50mm shooter at heart, so 43 is close enough. Looks brilliant, not something I can afford. It’ll be an instant pickup if I win a lottery, however.

[@petergordon4666]

Hugh- your best ever! I have been waiting a very long time for Leica to make a normal view Q and it has been difficult to resist getting the 28 so I bought a A7CR. I was half way through your video when Leica called and said that they have a 43 for me!!! (I called last week and put myself on the rumors wait list) Receiving it tomorrow. Giddy.

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy, Peter! 😊🙏🏻

[@tychomagneticanomaly]

Flawless pronunciation, Hugh ;)) See you on the streets of Berlin!

[@3BMEP]

😅🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@francisschweitzer8431]

Ferengi Forest??? 😅😅😅 …… 🖖 Hold that thought….. how about a Q3 43 Mono …. Huh..yea ..see what I’m say’n. ❤

[@MartinBering]

I think it was Thuringian Forest (or did I overlook the irony in your remark?) Yes, a mono version would indeed make me think about selling Tafelsilber from my Fuji and Sony/Zeiss gear...

[@easygoingbutgoing]

I thought it might be Merengue and dancing was involved

[@Charlie-mp3vl]

First video I've seen and hit 'subscribe' almost immediately. I had a Leica Q, I sold it with the intention of buying a Q3 but never actually did. The Q was a camera I wanted to fall in love with but for me 28mm just didn't work. I've looked at lots of photos I took with the Q and saw how heavily I cropped them, I've now ordered the Q3 43.

[@3BMEP]

Welcome - and enjoy!

[@MrKeith57]

Excellent perspective. Key word "Subset". Great move by Leica for its base.

[@seattlevkk]

Hugh what you are doing to my bank account is criminal

[@stevendente9270]

As usual great commentary on Leica's new and superlative offering. This one will be hard for me to resist. By the way I had a chance to handle Alan's Q3 with your new grip. Maybe the most comfortable camera I have ever held. Congratulations on a Fantastic job with the grip. It should fit this new Q3 43 perfectly too. better ramp up production! Give Claudia my best. Steve

[@3BMEP]

Will do - nice to see you here, Steve! Glad you both like the Helium 3 grip! We have an announcement or two coming soon!

[@GurmeetSingh-fr8uo]

Why does Leica M11 or M 35 APO cost more than Q343? Are Leica M APO glass much higher quality ?

[@MrPhotog7]

I’m sure it’s a great camera, but it’s definitely the wrong focal length for me. It would have been perfect for me if it had a 35mm lens. 43 is just not wide enough!

[@3BMEP]

Fair enough!

[@alexlubinski7795]

What about 28 mm?

[@MrPhotog7]

@@alexlubinski7795 yes, 28mm is a good focal length, as is 35mm. Sometimes, you do need something wider than 35mm.

[@AlecMurrell]

I own a Q2 and 28mm has never been my most comfortable focal length. I have always said if Leica ever brought out a 40 or 50mm version, I wouldn’t ever need anything else. Not only have they brought out the ‘43, it’s welded to, not the Q2 sensor, but the newer, even more megapixelicious Q3! Then I watch this video and am wowed by the stats, the reaction, the sheer achievement. Mine arrives tomorrow. And I cannot wait.

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy, Alec!

[@TeteRecinos]

I can’t wait to make prints with this.

[@walterlee3839]

My Fuji GFX100 II has cured my GAS. I have the phenomenal 55mm (43MM FF Equivalent, f1.4 FF Equivalent). Otherwise, I'd be ordering. FWIW, I've had the Q2 and Q2 Mono before and sold them both. Loved them, but sold them nonetheless to help build my inventory of GF Lenses. MF is so much fun to shoot.

[@3BMEP]

I understand.

[@GurmeetSingh-fr8uo]

Or me X2D cured my GAS

[@snappyft]

I’m picking mine up on Tuesday. Selling my Sl2-s and 35 & 75 APO’s.

[@3BMEP]

I hear you!

[@chrisbogart687]

I passed on the Q3 28mm and opted for a used Q2M. Now if a Q3M 43mm comes out . . . . I will be hard pressed to not upgrade. Decisions, decisions. Some are more enticing than others.

[@avnidvyi]

i love this camera. but i'll stay with my pentax k33m and q3 28 for longer time.

[@chrisbogart687]

@@avnidvyi understand - I am also saying with my X1D II.

[@sdwjapan5466]

Yes a Q3M 43mm would make a great companion to the Standard Q3. Otherwise it would be one or the other for most in the Q3 buyer market. I am happy with my Q3, but I do miss my Q2M sometimes.

[@avnidvyi]

@@sdwjapan5466 that's what I thought too. i love q2m, I love k33m more. but I get your point, a 2aa lens is born for monochrome, that's for sure. For daily use, I prefer 28, I can't remember how many times I felt that 28mm is not even wide enough, especially in some crowded environments. a 43mm is good for portraits, but I prefer monochrome for serious portraits.

[@lighthunteralp]

Omg!!! Thank you for the amazing video 😊 I got this 2 days ago and I think I am going to sell my SL-3!

[@3BMEP]

We're selling ONE of our SL3s to help cover the '43 we bought and arrived a couple of days ago!

[@lighthunteralp]

@@3BMEP Q3 43 is literally insane!

[@iangillett1817]

Lovely portrait of your mother.

[@3BMEP]

Thanks, Ian!

[@fgaglione]

did you compare this 43mm wide open to the 50mm 1.4 summilux wide open as having similar feel but sharper? if so that would be the reason for me to pull the trigger on this Q3 43

[@3BMEP]

You saw me do it: that lovely French tourist in New York taken with the M11 Monochrom and latest ‘lux 50 wide open; my mother taken with the Q3 43 wide open. There are differences of course, borne of different fields of view, focal length and optical materials and design. But I was surprised that I felt the way I did.

[@rg3412]

Developing our digital negatives on time is still mission impossible compared to the speed to publication offered by cellphones.

[@dillank3240]

Your mother is lovely!

[@3BMEP]

😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@onourwayeverywhere]

Dang!! This is the lens I have wanted on the Q system since its introduction. I am just not a 28mm shooter. The 40mm is my favorite focal length. I wish the Q3 43 had come out a year or two ago when I invested in a new camera system. At some point I will have this camera and I expect it will be the only camera I own.

[@roberttaylor4175]

Dude--- you're killing me here! Q3M 43 please!! Gotta get me one.....

[@3BMEP]

😉