micro four thirds in 2024 | Leica D-Lux 8 first impressions

[@LucidGeometry]

I recently radically downsized, retired from the US to Thailand, selling all my camera gear. Simplify and completely reset. And by all my cameras I mean Nikon Z mount and a ton of lenses, my beloved Wisner wooden 4x5 and Reis tripod … everything. I put my 1,000 Baht down on a Leica D-LUX 8 this weekend and I can honestly say I’ve never been as excited about a camera. Thanks for the excellent video.

[@GaryBoy1976]

M43 is more than adequate for most people and in most situations. It's being handicapped by people's predisposed attitudes. I have APSC, full frame, 35mm and medium format film cameras by Ricoh, Pentax, and Nikon. In most situations, I still use my Olympus M43 system. And not even their top-of-the-line system. I mostly use the EM5 Mark iii, it's a wonderful camera for street photography.

[@photographer8486]

Thanks for sharing! I wanted to learn photography. So I got a used Sony A7s2. Then lens I got with it was damaged. I thought buying a zoom lens would help me practice diversely with different focal lengths. Bought the Tamron 28-75 f2.8. The thing is I don't keep my camera with me. I should have got a fixed focal length lens (which would have also been smaller) and a smaller camera so that I can keep this handy with me always. I need to practice more and more. The setup I have currently I just don't carry with me. Keeping in mind I want to click pictures in low light during evening and night after office, please share some suggestions for a body and lens to have with me everyday.

[@oneeyedphotographer]

@@photographer8486 OM 1. See Mike Lane FRPS on KZbin. Or a predecessor such as the OM-D E-M1 II or III for a lot less money It's a professional's camera. I actually don't recommend you buy the OM 1 just now, until you find the earlier Olympus cameras don't do the job AND it's not because you lack the skills you should hae.

[@wss327]

Great review! I bought it for… size, great menu, around 20 megapixels max, easy for family, vacations and events photography. Easy file transfer. Great lens. Photography is no longer a hobby for me. I don’t collect cameras. I just want something that gives me quick access to aperture, shutter speed and ISO plus a nice small fill-in flash. And… it was available for purchase, here in Europe anyways.

[@butchfajardo8832]

I think this is the camera I'm looking for. I'm not a photographer and don't know how to use Lightroom. I just want to shoot good photos with my family. I'm researching for the best point and shoot that is better than the my iPhone camera. Thanks for the tips!

[@theparkerstudio]

Matt, thanks for taking the time to review this, much appreciated.

[@TristanColgate]

I had the lx100ii. It was a great little camera, and a great lens. The focus stacking feature works really well. In the end I sold it to fund a growing 4x5 habit. The only thing I thing that I didn't like was the EVF, it was just a bit too small. It's the camera I learned manual exposure on, and the ergonomics are really nice.

[@photographer8486]

Thanks for sharing! I wanted to learn photography. So I got a used Sony A7s2. Then lens I got with it was damaged. I thought buying a zoom lens would help me practice diversely with different focal lengths. Bought the Tamron 24-70 f2.8. The thing is I don't keep my camera with me. I should have got a fixed focal length lens (which would have also been smaller) and a smaller camera so that I can keep this handy with me always. I need to practice more and more. The setup I have currently I just don't carry with me. Keeping in mind I want to click pictures in low light during evening and night after office, please share some suggestions for a body and lens to have with me everyday.

[@TristanColgate]

@@photographer8486 if you want small at low light I think a f/1.8 50mm is probably sensible. Honestly I'd suggest micro four thirds. Something like the om5. Low light performance is still good enough, especially if you are starting out, want light kit for carrying on a commute.

[@albedo0point39]

Isn’t this just the 6 year old Panasonic LX100ii with a reskinned body and a new UI… or am I missing something?

[@Wildridefilms]

Yeah it is. It is just restyled to aesthetically fit more with the Leica Q series.

[@albedo0point39]

@@Wildridefilmsit’s what we in England call ‘money for old rope’.

[@trix-4656]

Just maybe, Panasonic will come out with an LX8.

[@cameraz99]

The Leica D-Lux 8 has an updated processor, improved interface, new rear and top controls, improved viewfinder, faster card interface, USB-C socket and ... the Leica panache.

[@topherick]

@@trix-4656I’ve seen on other channels that they are not planning to do so.

[@Elisha_the_bald_headed_prophet]

To be pedantic, it's not really a micro 4/3 camera, as this moniker refers specifically to the mirrorless _interchangeable lens_ system. It's just a compact zoom camera with a 4/3 sensor, albeit a premium one.

[@justcallmesando]

Loved the approach. I actually must say that when I got the Vivo X80 Pro with Zeiss cameras I started using it much more than my Fuji X100F and I eventually sold it (specially since I also had a X-Pro 1) but the phone is still with me and I am really happy with it’s cameras performance. I was wandering if getting the D-Lux 8 would end up the same way.

[@mfs62789]

The olympus pen line you would LOVE! I have come full circle with cameras and Olympus 4/3 is magic

[@D.Trider]

Woah. Gone for 6 months and return to a new Leica and a new mustache. Thx for the great video!

[@VueeyLe]

Just a correction tho, when you choose the aspect ratio on this camera. You do not retain the full sensor readout. Whatever ratio you choose, you are stuck with the ration pixel layout of the camera (its not a digital crop). Reason for this is because when you use this camera, you are never 100% using the full sensor to begin with; very similar to the D-LUX7 and DMC-LX100II since it uses the same lens and sensor. Reason for this is because the image circle of the lens does not cover the whole sensor and Panasonic smartly developed this in a way, whatever aspect ratio you use, you will capture a total of 17mp from the 20mp MFT sensor.

[@TungstenOvergaard]

You got it right. This youseller is talking about a m4/3 and it is not even m4/3 really.

[@photographer8486]

Thanks for sharing! I wanted to learn photography. So I got a used Sony A7s2. Then lens I got with it was damaged. I thought buying a zoom lens would help me practice diversely with different focal lengths. Bought the Tamron 24-70 f2.8. The thing is I don't keep my camera with me. I should have got a fixed focal length lens (which would have also been smaller) and a smaller camera so that I can keep this handy with me always. I need to practice more and more. The setup I have currently I just don't carry with me. Keeping in mind I want to click pictures in low light during evening and night after office, please share some suggestions for a body and lens to have with me everyday.

[@stkuj]

Do you know if this is really a Lumix camera with the Leica re-brand?

[@owenrodgers8020]

all the d-lux cameras have had a lumix counterpart... the lens is leica, and a bunch of the body/sensor is maybe *more lumix than leica. the lens is top notch

[@kentsoderstrom8378]

I’d hope that Leica would make a mft camera body some day. There is a lot of Leica badged mft lenses already, like my favourite Leica 15/1.7. An mft camera in Leica Q-style would be nice. Without a physical lens attached to it, it wouldn’t be that expensive to produce either. I would buy one!

[@IvarsDayLab]

I really wish this camera as well as Panasonic Lumix LX100III/IV... would have small fixed prime. Or there would be two versions of camera - one with zoom and other with prime for example Leica 15mm f1.7.

[@terrywbreedlove]

In good light MFT rocks. The size of the cameras and lenses are a real bonus. However get into lower light and you quickly begin to see its Achilles heal. Long time Olympus shooter who switched over to FF Nikon but still also shoot my Pen F.

[@anta40]

Just curious, is this still true on newer flagship bodies like OM-1 Mark II?

[@szrimaging]

@@anta40 Yes and no. It's really situation dependent. If you need a single exposure and can't rely on the stabilization, then yes. However, if you can make use of the stabilization, or use handheld hi-res, the gap closes. I'll often use HHR on landscapes handheld at ISO 800+ and the images come out very clean.

[@osirismarbles5177]

Get a fast prime and low light solved. Lenses go as fast as F0.95. If that's not fast enough for the low light you're shooting in (especially with newer ISO performance), you might be shooting in a basement closet :)

[@kaczynski2333]

You mean it's not as forgiving, and you need to use a tripod in low light...

[@Deetroiter]

Grain (noise) is your friend. Don’t be afraid of it in low light :)

[@SpookyConcepts]

Just goes to show that so many photographers place too much emphasis on what gear they own and that gear has to be the "best" gear. "All my gear needs to be full-frame or digital medium format" no, it absolutely does not. You do not need the latest and greatest thing. Until you start printing billboard on the size of the highway sizes, basically no one will tell the difference between a micro 3/4 and full-frame camera, and you proved as much in this video. All cameras are so good now a days and most people's primary rig could probably be replaced with a small camera like this and there will be little compromise in doing so

[@photographer8486]

Thanks for sharing! I wanted to learn photography. So I got a used Sony A7s2. Then lens I got with it was damaged. I thought buying a zoom lens would help me practice diversely with different focal lengths. Bought the Tamron 24-70 f2.8. The thing is I don't keep my camera with me. I should have got a fixed focal length lens (which would have also been smaller) and a smaller camera so that I can keep this handy with me always. I need to practice more and more. The setup I have currently I just don't carry with me. Keeping in mind I want to click pictures in low light during evening and night after office, please share some suggestions for a body and lens to have with me everyday.

[@johncampbell5742]

🤔😆😅🤣😏

[@Conversus]

I had a Leica Q2 until a couple of weeks ago. Just got myself a used LUMIX G5 (MFT) and love it. The D-Lux 8 looks like a copy (especially the flash). I wouldn’t be surprised, the G5 is a great little gem with exceptionally good IQ.

[@TristanColgate]

It's (along with the dlux 7), is an lx100ii in a slightly different case, and I think Leica's own software.

[@cameraz99]

Do you mean Lumix GM5? Also, the Leica flash is the same one that came with the GM5.

[@scott4460]

My thought is it would have been great to see some photos from the camera you are reviewing. Many of us would greatly like to have a D-Lux 8 in our hands for two days. Sorry you couldn't make use of that time.

[@kiwipics]

@Matt Day ...I was always a Canon 35mm, full frame, or APSC shooter, but over the last 7 or 8 years I've shot more on compacts. My favourite cameras are now Lumix LX7, GF1, and TZ90 M43 cameras. I love how easy they are to use and the quality of the files that come out of them. Having said that my Canon S120 and G16 are still in my daily carry arsenal. M43 bodies and lenses have so much to offer casual and serious shooters. My Lumix bodies teamed up with my fast Olympus and Panasonic / Lumix lenses are light to carry and fun to use. I love my Lumix 15mm f1.7 Summilux which is a rather nice 30mm f1.7 in full frame terms, and then there are no end of fast lenses from the likes of 7 Artisans, TT Artisans and even using Leica R mounts on an adaptor ... Fun fun fun.

[@rossxjohnson]

New hairstyle, new look, looking great... All the D-Lux and a new video, you shouldn't have. Great observations on the camera, uploading pics to socials and looking good!

[@samhardy2038]

Yea, the hair!

[@photographer8486]

Thanks for sharing! I wanted to learn photography. So I got a used Sony A7s2. Then lens I got with it was damaged. I thought buying a zoom lens would help me practice diversely with different focal lengths. Bought the Tamron 24-70 f2.8. The thing is I don't keep my camera with me. I should have got a fixed focal length lens (which would have also been smaller) and a smaller camera so that I can keep this handy with me always. I need to practice more and more. The setup I have currently I just don't carry with me. Keeping in mind I want to click pictures in low light during evening and night after office, please share some suggestions for a body and lens to have with me everyday.

[@ricardorgomez]

I am a professional photographer and I've been seriously impressed with the D-Lux 8. My current setup is Lumix m43 (Panasonic G9) but for several years shot with Full Frame and played on occasion with Phase One Medium Format. So I have a pretty good background of different systems. The 'good' images I've seen from the D-Lux 8 have been quite spectacular. But then again, I've been incredibly happy with the images I get from my G9. Also a m43 camera. Though, there is 'something extra' I'm seeing in the Leica images. The only thing I can say for now is it has that Leica look... And it's probably just the tweaking between the lens and sensor that Leica did to achieve it. It's a sort of image and color rendering formula that says "Leica". It does have a sort of Medium Format look to it. For sure. And I can tell the difference between formats. Unlike most people. It's on my list. Would love to have this camera for street photography and possibly, product photography for my lifestyle blog. It shoots way above its weight for its size and cost. It's going to be a hot seller.

[@smashpop]

OMG! I had the same fate as yours! My first recording of the review got corrupted and the version i posted was a re-record after i returned the camera to Leica. I had to loan it for a day again after 2 weeks to record the 2nd version of the same review lol

[@arneheeringa96]

My first digicam was 4 MP and I put it on 2. With this you can enlarge 24x30cm. How often do you need that? After this I mostly shoot 4-6 MP, sometimes 8. JPEG SOOC. Since 3,5 years I can do RAW too, but I only use it in important cases. I like Nikons 'JPEG basic'. Shoot 6 MP instead of 24 and have files below 1 MB.

[@kindface]

Love that anecdote about guesses equating the 8's sensor with the GFX's. Instills great confidence in the 8. Glad I watched your video! Liked, subscribed. Do you remember what focal length that particular shot was taken at?

[@cougmantx]

What I haven't heard addressed is whether the Leica D-Lux 8 is weather and dust-sealed. The Panasonic LX100ii had a huge problem with dust on the sensor and no way to clean it.

[@JimmyPifPaf]

I believe it's the same...

[@ianforber]

Looks perfect for many people’s needs, if not their wants! I used to shoot m4/3 with an EM-5 mkII. I stopped not for image quality reasons but because I hated the user interface, both the dials on the body and the menu system. I bought the Q2 for the simple controls and because it had a fixed lens to stop me accumulating more gear. The lens is bulky though so I bought an M11 and use it with a CV 35mm f1.5 Nokton. Still a lot of my best pictures from the Q2 though. Tempted to trade the Q2 for this so I have a more pocketable camera to complement the M11. What do you think?

[@alexwade9921]

I thought the aspect ratio was more than just crop? On the previous iterations the image circle of the lens was smaller than micro 4/3 (hence the different crop factor) and less of the sensor utilised. With the aspect ratio a square image would actually utilise more sensor area vertically and a 16:9 more horizontally. Basically whatever the aspect ratio the corners of the image intersect the edge of the designed image circle.

[@liveinaweorg]

I've an EM1 MkII and been printing ,exhibiting and selling prints in A3+. a2 wouldn't be an issue either, I just can't pint in that size. M4/3 is very underrated. I do like the look of the Leica.

[@cameraz99]

Haha. I have made beautiful 20"x30" prints from my Panasonic GX85, with its 16mp micro 4/3 sensor.

[@samuelhollin1524]

Above all else, the one thing I would love to see in one of these compact cameras is a different aspect ratio. A Q or Fuji X camera with a native 4x5 aspect ratio would be an absolute must buy for me.

[@whfowle]

I wonder how much it costs more than my Panasonic Lumix LX100 II. It is my daily carry and I like it. But to pay more for the Leica dot, not I.

[@residenttouristprod]

...IDK, as a longtime CANON shooter, I bought into the M43 system, starting with the Pen for the cool features and quickly moving into the Lumix line:Gx8, G9 and G95 for the IBIS. I thoroughly enjoyed the stabilization that CANON wasn't offering at the time. Then, I wanted more dynamic range and especially in low light. Lumix offered their S series and soon that system grew with smaller bodies. For my experience, I kept the best lenses and the pro bodies because they perform so well and the IQ is undecernable in well lit conditions. I think as cellphone alternative experience, the Leica user experince and Leica Fotos is the best as I to own and use the CL and Q3. The D-Lux 8 and flash i would recommend as a entry level camera and enjoyable with image processing modality software for social media uploading to and fro using your cellphone. I love the seamless process of Leica Fotos when using my cameras and honestly IMHO, now camera company does it better.

[@3sixty2degres]

Well I had the D-lux 7, which was my entry into Leica systems, ... got Q very shortly after then a M4 and for real I so much loved the images I was getting et I found it very cute too. and honestly M4/3 is a whole different style of photographs you just don't use it for when you need the capabilities of fullframe.

[@sanfordlavine1760]

I really liked your review. It was from the perspective of a real photographer. With current technology as advanced as it is, I really didn’t need all of the specs. I’m a m11, q3, and Hassy X2D user. But I frequently just shoot with my iPhone. I might consider getting this camera. Well done 👍🏻

[@peterfritzphoto]

I also shoot with an X2D, and have a D-Lux 8 on order. For me, I think it’ll be the perfect EDC camera. 👍

[@ArminHirmer]

I think MFT will have a big revival coming :) I just wish OM Systems would make a cleaner designed Pen F with the tech of the OM1 II

[@antoine7085]

Got the same with my ear. The doctor said it was my pollen allergy. I had a drip medication for 2 weeks and it’s gone… sorry for my English but I hope your doing great

[@peterk_hh]

Are you shooting Jpg with your iPhone? Then you should do that with the D-Lux8 also to compare. Is it worth the price, is it so much better that you would use it instead of your iPhone? That would be interesting.

[@craigharris6189]

I've used the Lumix LX100 for a few years & it's still amazing. Basically the DLux 8 is the best upgrade, though missing the built-in filters & don't like the lens cap on this one...

[@Democratiser]

MFT is an excellent option for me as an enthusiast. I still have a Canon 5DIII but MFT provides for a much more portable system. Quintessential lenses for me include the LUMIX 15mm f1.7, 14-140mm, Leica 25mm f1.4, and Olympus 75mm and 45mm f1.8. These lenses are extremely light and small compared with FF counterparts. The abundance of used lenses can also present huge bargains. Like many lumix users I am hoping for an updated GX9 to be released sometime.

[@rudigerwolf9626]

Matt, looking forward to your in-depth review. Totally agree with your assessment of m4/3. I have medium format, full-frame, and just got the OMD OM1. Honestly, it is more than enough. Small, light, good, if not great glass, and images that really stand up to processing and can print at 11x14. Plus, if noise is ever an issue, Topaz AI or other software can easily address it. I have the DLux 8 on order. Just have to decide what I will be selling to pay for it and a trip.

[@mikemendoza750]

60 MP is a bit much ALL of the time...I have been looking for something more compact and with less MP as a carry around camera. I don't believe we need huge amounts of MP's all the time. How did you like the shutter?? I had a DLUX7 and I hated the shutter button.

[@rickyzagalo]

Simple and yet a great video that really can give us a idea of what we will get with this camera. Unfortunately, nowadays vloggers are much more focused to what a new camera could or should have been, instead of what it is. The thing is, if it deliveries good stuff, than it's a good piece, why full fill a complete video with a list of what other cameras have, always and persistently on a continous analogy between cameras. It's a bless to listen the truth that, 60mpx full frame is very good but that we can be very happy with 17mpx and m43, like saying that what is good, is good, and it doesn't became bad just because its not excellent. And thanks to not even mention the so limited idea that it's just a 6 years old Panasonic. Really enjoyed this simple and clever approach. Beautiful images and, we can really see the excelent results of that lens, sensor and color processing Cheers

[@Dakshahathi]

Overrated

[@frankphotography8470]

Can't work out if that's the 28mm f2 or if you've picked up another 35mm F1.4 nokton?

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Oh man so jealous you got to try it out!

[@tomfenn7149]

I've been using m43 in a professional capacity for 10 or so years now. The latest m43 cameras are so good I don't need either APS-C or FF. All the latter stuff was marketing nonsense anyway. A real pro can shoot and get paid using any format, even 110 or 126/7 (film). My original Canon DSLR back in the late 1990's was only 3.1mp. But images were published and deadlines reached. We really have too many tools at our disposal and the only thing really holding us back isn't the gear, but simply ourselves.

[@johncampbell5742]

🤣🤣🤣

[@bngr_bngr]

I love my Leica D Lux 6 with the swivel viewfinder. I was disappointed that was no longer available on this new camera nor if it had a higher mp number. But does look good.

[@Lysander-Spooner]

What is the difference between this and the Panasonic LX100II?

[@edmoore]

Is the design an H. R. Giger collab?

[@Mr_Quimper]

Facehugging ovipositors are an optional extra. 😉

[@BenjaminSandness]

Compact, performant cameras for people accustomed to big bodies, fast lenses, and big sensors is such a hard problem. All options have compromises, but Leica/Panasonic really took a unique path with this line. I remember looking for a solution like 6 years ago. I had a Pentax MX-2, X100S, and also OM-D EM10 w/ 20mm f/1.7. None were perfect. I tried the Z fc last year with 26mm and kit zoom. As a fling it was fine but fell short. 😢 Curious about the D-LUX3 and possible future Panasonic cousin.

[@francochamps3855]

I GOT IT RIGHT ON INSTA!

[@Democratiser]

What made you think it was the D-lux?

[@photographer8486]

Thanks for sharing! I wanted to learn photography. So I got a used Sony A7s2. Then lens I got with it was damaged. I thought buying a zoom lens would help me practice diversely with different focal lengths. Bought the Tamron 24-70 f2.8. The thing is I don't keep my camera with me. I should have got a fixed focal length lens (which would have also been smaller) and a smaller camera so that I can keep this handy with me always. I need to practice more and more. The setup I have currently I just don't carry with me. Keeping in mind I want to click pictures in low light during evening and night after office, please share some suggestions for a body and lens to have with me everyday.

[@Democratiser]

@@photographer8486 you are seeking a category of camera which was almost made extinct by the advent of the smart phone. The best options are IMHO: - iPhone with an app like Blackmagic or Filmic pro which gives you manual control over your phone - Fujifilm X100VI but downside is fixed lens but otherwise very versatile - LUMIX S9 with a yet to be released 18-45mm zoom - Fujifilm XE4 or XE3 with a lens of your choice - A7C Mark I or II which could make sense as you may have Sony lens or two. - Nikon ZF with a pancake 40mm. - Ricoh GRIII. - GX9 second hand with a 20mm pancake or 15mm or 25mm, but most of the lenses are relatively small. - Olympus OM5 with a 17mm or 25mm. - Sony A6700 with a lens of your choice. Each option has pros and cons. Good luck!

[@francochamps3855]

@@Democratiser Actually, it was a timing thing...Matt got his about the same time as a few other reviewers got theirs...so it was just a guess really.

[@Democratiser]

@@francochamps3855 Nice intuition. 👍

[@horaciomillan4181]

I have a D-Lux that I bought almost 10 years ago, and as much as I know it has the same lens and sensor, and I love it. It’s small, compact and discreet, the images are more than enough, and offers lots of creative possibilities. The limit is myself as a photographer. Not being a pro, this could perfectly be my only cammera, particularly for street photography. And it’s so, so fun to use!

[@dopagony9946]

is the camera out in the US? I still see a pre-order only option on B&H

[@ibrahimus1]

I pre-ordered it at B&H a month ago and still no sign...

[@vermontmike9800]

Matt, have you thought about making a video about iPhone photography?

[@stayuntilforever]

Instagram stories is like a 1mp image. Print it 70x50cm and then we can talk about quality. If I had only instagram then a phone would be more than enough. But I print alit and APS-C is the smallest sensor I'd go for. Also I like the bokeh and colours more on vintage lenses adapted to digital.

[@dabozzcrg]

Would have liked to see a raw comparison to the Iphone or any high spec phone for that matter.

[@yadili-r9p]

Is the lens cap compatible with Dlux7?

[@Skidoo22]

That screw shutter, does a cable release work in that or is it for just a soft touch?

[@KandyRedCoi]

Having a m240, q2 and a dlux109, i often wonder what the point is having the others when my dlux can handle 80% of myphotog needs lol

[@NobbyChariot]

No Leica look? Is it a Panasonic with a red dot? Good review, well done👍🏻

[@josephlipniczky1629]

I had the LX3, then LX5 and LX7. Great cameras. I did not buy the LX100 because thousands complained aboit the dust in the sensor, and was kind of $200 to send for cleaning. And the word was for LX100 II is solved the problem . For about three years I took lovely photos, but the issue with the dust on sensor and the unreliable rocker switch for zoom made it a paperweight only. The Leica fixed it? Not sure, and if they did not, then I would hold my money to buy it…

[@dreamer_33]

Its a cool looking camera from Leica with somewhat affordable price. I think enthusiasts might like it. If it would have a flip up screen it would be great little cameral for street photography.

[@RobinParmar]

If you are going to state equivalence for focal length then you need to do the same for the aperture. The lens is a 24-75mm F3.4-5.6 (full-frame eqv.). A far better MFT deal than this fixed-lens model is the Panasonic GX9. You get a tilting EVF, tilt screen, and 5-axis IBIS... not to mention a lens mount. Add the Olympus M.Zuiko 45/1.8 and Panasonic Lumix G 14/2.5 II ASPH for a total price (second-hand) of €935. Compared to €1400 for a used D-Lux 7.

[@Bhakti-rider]

You're referring to depth of field equivalence; for light transmission, the apertures are actual.

[@RobinParmar]

@@Bhakti-rider Exactly. Because that's what matters to photographers as opposed to lens designers.

[@kodyo1017]

I thought the same about MFT till I tried it. Got a LUMIX G9 really cheap and love it!

[@allanschuster3520]

The picture of your son is special.

[@dhlininger3159]

Interesting comments. I have a Sony that I only use for low light as its menu is something only a stressed out engineer could love. What I do use for everyday is an Olympus Pen-P3 micro 4/3. It’s small, easy to use and the colors are outstanding. When I show my work no one ask about how many megapixels it has or how old it is. I have been waiting for a new Pen which will probably never happen so the Leica with their updated useable menu and the images I have seen by various reviewers looks real good to me.

[@TheoDahlemPickups]

A few years back I was shooting w. a Panasonic Lumix LX100 which, w. its' Leica lens had a whopping max. aperture of 1,4. You could shoot in almost total darkness pics that looked like daylight. However I sold it in favour of a Fujifilm X-E2 camera. The major con I had was dirt on the lens due to the zoom sucking in dust (Typically). The good thing was that its's price was only a fraction of what the almost if not identical camera D Lux was commanding on the market. At some later time I purchased a Olympus PEN F which I started to use again just recently. Those micro 4/3 cameras definitely are no inferior to my bigger FF cameras. In fact you can use vintage man. lenses and double focal length without the large and heavy masses you would have to get along when shooting w. equivalent FF lenses. And like you said, It's hard to tell the difference when looking at photos.

[@kucken64]

Oh Matt, I had the ear thing a few months ago. It's super uncomfortable. I am sure you have already been told this but olive oil - lay on your side, put a tiny amount in your ear and leave it for five minutes. Do this three or four times a day and it will eventually dissolve the wax. Multiple medical professionals have told me that olive oil is as good if not better than the over the counter treatments.

[@zakiradi450]

No weather sealing?!

[@TheDvoros]

What size print can be made from a 17mp sensor?

[@SnapsByBongo]

Thanks for sharing your opinions on the camera. I use my phone as an everyday camera. What would you recommend for an actual everyday camera?

[@Leicam10]

Wish they made a digital minilux. No lcd no menus just small with a sharp 35mm lens and a ovf with frame lines. Just like a point and shoot camera should be.

[@davidkipperman5218]

Leica is making some really good, easy to use cohesive cameras.

[@stiigern]

My dream camera is the Leica Q3. But same as alot of people i can’t justify the price. I need to upgrade my Canon 5D Mark IV to a R5 hopefully, and that’s not cheap either. Now i’m really facinated by the Dlux-8 and maybe i can afford both upgrading my work camera and get this without braking the bank. I like the look of the fuji aswell, but it just isn’t leica 😅

[@ebreevephoto]

I realize you didn't intend to compare the Medium format sensor to the M4/3 sensor in terms of output. I mean if I were shooting for a billboard or an art piece I would take the Medium sensor everyday. For online presentation ya I get it the quality seems superb for that avenue...

[@ezrashanti]

I wouldn't say an M11 is incredibly small. I would say a Ricoh gr 3 apsc is incredibly small. And I do have m8, m9, m240. Dlux8 looks cool :)

[@nelsonclub7722]

I often see pople out with 10 to 15 year old cameras and lenses - its good enough for them - not everyone is a Pro - I retired at the grand old age of 56 this year after 35 years in the game 10x8 all the way down to 35mm - I just bought an Ex Dem (unused) SL2 with a grip for pretty much the same money as an SL3 because in my humble opinion the Sl2 is more robust feels nicer and will last longer - I use 20 year old Leica APO lenses and I am in love ,in fact I will say its probably given me more pleasure in three months than nay camera since my Contax 139 with a winder from the late 80's

[@ellemusic.]

Bought one! Loved your review! Very excited!!!! 💗

[@ales_krejci]

I had the original LX100 and loved that camera. It just had one big issue that made me sell it and it was unrealiable AF. It would confirm focus in a moment where it was completely out of focus. It happened 10% of the times but made me crazy.

[@achillesmjb]

Just a rebadged Panasonic LX100 ii introduced in 2018. Same sensor, same controls, etc. And at a MUCH lower price.

[@jlee104]

a used LX100 ii costs $1000 USD used today. I'd rather pay the difference to get a new one.

[@danfloresmusic]

Oh man, clogged ears are so annoying. When I lived in the US, I used a kit sold at Walgreens. It’s basically a pump to irrigate the wax. Hope you get that sorted soon.

[@mawavoy]

Matt, great review. If Leica would have uploaded to a back lite sensor the image quality would be better , over all.

[@jamescaldwell5]

I am glad to see they are not charging much more than the X100VI, but it’s possible to get a full frame interchangeable compact body camera for that kind of money. (S9 or Sigma FP) Go full frame, get some prime lenses.

[@EdwardIglesias]

Any thoughts on the tri fold lens cover thingy? I mean it looks incredibly fragile to me but I've never held it.

[@dtmoments]

It’s super strong, I used it on the D-Lux7 for 3 years.

[@louiebodenstaff6772]

Long live micro four thirds ... great review!

[@vernonsza]

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a bit of a hard sell at $1600. While I don't necessarily mind the micro four thirds sensor, 17 megapixels, or the variable aperture zoom lens, there are a couple of features I think could have really improved this camera. First, a leaf shutter would have been a great addition. Since the lens isn't removable, a leaf shutter would provide more flexibility when using a flash. Second, in-body stabilization is a feature that this camera could have benefited from massively. It's basically the standard nowadays. With a 17 megapixel micro four thirds sensor, noise can easily creep in when the ISO starts to go up because you have to maintain a certain shutter speed. In-body image stabilization would allow for shooting handheld at slower shutter speeds, keeping the ISO relatively low and avoiding noise.

[@rowenkariya]

It does have a leaf shutter.

[@tgrunnet9050]

And IBIS.

[@caskraker]

Man, you are a loser.

[@sweden_ove2074]

For all those people complaini g about rebranded old camera. Try it before you complain. As far as i see, a proper photographer can take great photos with it and having fun at the same time. Is'nt that great? Ok, it got "only" 17 mp. And nowdays the true professionals have understood that if you can use your equipment and take proper photos, you need about 20 mp. That is enough. Ok, this camera is only 17 mp, but it is actually goid enough. You can print the photos quite big and with quality. So, 17 mp is ok in my opinion. Furhermore, the optics seem good enough for a compact camera. I have for fun a Olympus PEN PM2 with a pro 8-25 lens. The combo is for fun. It has only 16 mp, but a great super wide to normal lens. The lens is too big for the camera, but that is the thing. Its a fun combo, and people smile when i take photos. And so do I. The fun factor is much more important than the pixel peeping over tech factor. The D-Lux 8 is fun too. Its very fun, and good enough and I woukd love to buy one to bring with me every day. I'm happy. Thank you Leica, you are making smiles in my eyes. I'll buy one soon, despite there was a D-lux7 and a LX100ii some years ago. ❤

[@gurugamer8632]

X100VI has a bigger sensor than Leica ?

[@mortenthesbl5535]

looks great - reminds me a little of the Lumix LX 100. I think this could get a following - as you say among street photographers and the casual shooters

[@GrainAndPixels]

I like the simplicity of the buttons on the back of the camera. I have the original Lumix LX100 and find that I accidentally hit buttons and change settings with the palm of my hand. Also agree with Tristan below that the EVF isn't that great, but overall I like it for a camera I can be inconspicuous with on the street. The D-Lux could be an option if I ever want a newer camera that size, since it looks like Lumix discontinued it. Or, like you, just use my Leica M camera.

[@eworldRick]

I'm waiting for the 20 plus pixel, dual pixel AF, sensor shift, joy stick, tilt screen, weather sealed version. 😅

[@peterzpictstube]

Just for perspective 6mp was generally considered enough to replace most 35mm film. I have a 20x30 of my kids I shot with 4.6mp SD14 not look like it needs more resolution. So 17 in this little cutie is more than enough for Socials and Prints. Honestly the only thing this little P&S is missing is a flipping screen the would swing under like my Z50 does and then you can bring home the killer selfies, because phone selfie cameras are mostly crap. Yeah that is my Z50's super power. Also it include that little flash to light up your backlit shots, so handy.

[@chennyye28]

I love my lumix lx100 gen1, even though it is just 12mp, but then I have an interest in macro photographer, so I am not waiting for the new GX9 or something with 10bit 422 and flash sync ability and lightweight.

[@drknutz]

Great point of view when it comes to knowing what the end result is going to be, in this case, the majority of photos will end up in social media, and a m43 camera is more than capable. I have been using my Lumix gx85, and it is a great camera and it works great for street photography.

[@TL-xw6fh]

It's just a Panasonic LX100 rebadged into a Leica. The updated LX100 will be launch in a few months time for a third of the price, I suspect.

[@EamonJeffers]

Let's hope you're right

[@DavidMBanes]

There are reports that Leica have said there won't be an equivalent Panasonic.

[@TL-xw6fh]

@@DavidMBanes That's what they are hoping, but I am certainly hoping for a Panasonic LX100ii since I cannot afford a Leica.

[@michaelbell75]

Panasonic has zero reason to release this, it's the same camera as the LX100 II. There won't be a Panasonic version, there already was 6 years ago.,

[@TL-xw6fh]

@@michaelbell75 On the contrary, they have every reason to do so. The Leica will sell in only very limited volumes, so in order to amortize the R&D, tooling and capital expenditure, they need to introduce the LX100 replacement, at a lower price to the Leica and targeted at a different consumer segment, just like the previous generation of cameras.

[@jordandunlop5629]

4 things holding me back from this camera; no weather seal, limited cropped senor, no tilty screen, no high res-shot (a m43 solution for small senor)

[@georgedobre88]

yeah - very nice Panasonic camera ! I had the chance to test it for half an hour and the only real problem that I got with it (besids the price) was the viewfinder ... still looking to a peephole

[@83442handle]

8:00 asking people to make a blind guess on their 6" phone screen based off a IG story is like putting a blindfold and ear muffs on someone as a passenger and see if they can tell the difference between a Fiat and a Ferrari in traffic. At the end of the day people would make wrong guesses between a ARRI 65 and iPhone footage in many random scenarios.

[@BlazeFirereign]

A dull composition will be dull, no matter how detailed. A captivating composition will captivate, even if it's noisy, has a low dynamic range, and doesn't have tens of millions of pixels. *All* modern cameras, and frankly most smartphones, are "good enough" to take captivating compositions. And once you get to MFT, you're not going to see a big difference for most interesting compositions, even on large prints. Gear heads will pixel peep, nobody else cares about the sensor it was shot on. What matters is whether a camera enables you to take the photos that you want to take. For professionals, this probably comes down to features. For most amateurs and hobbyists, I think the most important thing is whether they enjoy using the camera. I say this as someone who's currently shooting 100MP digital medium format, yet the large print on the wall in front of me is from a MFT camera. I pick the camera based on what I enjoy using, because then I'll go out and use it. And the D-Lux 8 looks like an enjoyable camera to use.

[@samki_foto]

I never knew Leica is into M43 system. And not just Panasonic and OM Systems. This should help the format going forward. Thanks for short review. I got what I wanted.

[@Coup0705]

Leica D-Lux 7 was a Pansonic Lumix DC-LX100 II reskin costing $200 more. Pansonic Lumix DC-LX100 Ill should be out soon.

[@photographer8486]

Thanks for sharing! I wanted to learn photography. So I got a used Sony A7s2. Then lens I got with it was damaged. I thought buying a zoom lens would help me practice diversely with different focal lengths. Bought the Tamron 24-70 f2.8. The thing is I don't keep my camera with me. I should have got a fixed focal length lens (which would have also been smaller) and a smaller camera so that I can keep this handy with me always. I need to practice more and more. The setup I have currently I just don't carry with me. Keeping in mind I want to click pictures in low light during evening and night after office, please share some suggestions for a body and lens to have with me everyday.

[@nelsoncam123]

this camera always shoots in a crop with 1:1 using the full height and 16:9 using the full width but 4:3 and 3:2 both crop in