Review - The Leica M8 - Is it still worth it?

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Find a used Leica at MPB. And if you do, you also help support this channel by using the links bellow: MPB EU, prf.hn/l/lQByyLQ MPB UK, prf.hn/l/q3qa8Ne MPB US, prf.hn/l/kVBOOlv

[@bobhanuman65]

I am so glad I watched this. I had just sold my M10 and Summilux to fund more practical production type cameras I needed and was a bit depressed over the whole thing but this inspired me to look around for a M8. I found one on Craigslist and picked it up today with a Voigtlander classic 1.4 35mm and couldn't be happier. The camera looks like it was used a few times and I'm pretty astounded by the colors coming out of it. The BW looks great too. Now I can get a Ricoh GR II and will have saved a ton of money and hopefully be content for a bit. ;-) Thank you again. You're the best!!! Bob

[@shimmeringreflection]

I can't stop coming back to watch your videos no matter what they're about. They have tremendous heart and soul, just like the classic cameras you review

[@TedVieira]

I really like your videos, man. And your photography. Very cool stuff, Mattias.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

+Ted Vieira Awesome, I really dig your videos and photos also. And your approach to photography in general, its needed in this day and age.

[@TedVieira]

Thanks Mattias, I appreciate that, man.

[@liquidcooled877]

I’ve been watching a lot of your old videos recently. I really appreciate your level headed approach to photography. It’s not all about megapixel resolution and dynamic range. It’s about creating a pleasing image. The rest are factors and cameras are artistic instruments each with its own unique quality. You’ve got it right so thanks for sharing!

[@quatrical]

One day, man. One day.

[@overdoseoflaught]

we all have that feeling..but he comes here and says I have this ,this ,this and the other ...:((

[@error4159]

With them now going for less the $2000, us normal folks can now afford a M8. I paid $1800 for mine and I love it.

[@rafabern31]

Did you get one?

[@window741]

Photos, your voice, editing, and your videos, absolutely good.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Still one of my favourite cameras, love mine and use it all the time both professionally and for pure pleasure!

[@samuelbamford7538]

I keep coming back to this video, at least once a month to watch it... hands down the best M8 Review!

[@tallcorbs]

My M8 arrives next week AND I AM SO FREAKING EXCITED

[@sebastiaanham]

How’d you like it?

[@tallcorbs]

@@sebastiaanham Ah man, it's such a wonderful bit of gear. I've shot on Canon and Fuji systems for years and years, and I traded in my XT1 setup for the M8 and bought a Voigtlander 35mm (46mm equivalent on the CCD) and just been sticking with that sole focal length for the last six months. It's been amazing, and it feels like this camera constantly teaches me how to shoot better. No jokes, it does make you work harder to get your shots, and I don't ride the ISO higher than 640 most of the time, so I've really gotta manage my light properly, especially when I head out and shoot at night. I read somewhere that it's like shooting a never-ending roll of Ektachrome film and that's honestly what it feels like. No longer firing off 30 exposures of the same thing and finding the shot later in post, it's far more like shooting 35mm and getting it right in camera. The build quality is incredible, the weight of it is wonderful and it's got the greatest shutter sound on the planet. I'm just looking at the camera on my desk and smiling at it, because it brings me a stupid amount of joy. Phew, this got long-winded, but if you're in the market for an M8, do it. It's worth it. After my trade in, the body only cost me about €450, so you can get it cheap. Check out MPB if you wanna get a good deal on pre-owned Leica.

[@sebastiaanham]

@@tallcorbs Thanks so much for this man! I'm also shooting with Fuji at the moment, but there was always something about Leica that I found extremely intriguing. Not just the very well designed body's but the quality as well. Been struggling to find a Leica for some time now, the price being the main reason haha. But man you made me excited for this one I can tell you that! I will keep an eye on MPB! Good tip! Thanks so much man!

[@tallcorbs]

@@sebastiaanham You're welcome Sebastiaan! If you get the M8, make sure you do get an IR cut filter for the lens(es) you're pairing with the body, you definitely can see purples and reds in the blacks if you're shooting without it in colour. B&W make a really nice one. Otherwise, if you want to shoot black and white, just keep the filter off and the monochrome detail that you get is just wonderful. I'd also make sure to get a few extra batteries off eBay or 2nd hand camera shops (all the M batteries work in the camera I think) as the batteries that come with the camera are generally at the end of their life cycle, being like 15 years old. Let me know how you get on!

[@sebastiaanham]

@@tallcorbs Good tips man! Will do. Also, do you have any socials where I can see some of your shot pictures with the M8? Would love to see it!

[@krolldavid]

I just bought the Leica M8 as my first ever Leica. It’s in pristine condition and I absolutely love it. Thank you for recommending it.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Have fun 🤩

[@adams.555]

Seeing your lovely dog in practically every video never gets old.

[@jk8134]

A good friend, a Leica collector, left me an M8 in new condition. Can't wait to see the images from this camera. Thank you for all your videos. This one is very informative and has created a lot of anticipation for the camera. All the best from San Miguel de Allende Mexico.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Enjoy your M8!

[@steveo85]

Thank you for another wonderful video Mattias! I saved my pennies for a couple of years hoping M8 prices would drop further but it seems they have bottomed out at just over $1000 here in the US. So, based on your recommendation I finally purchased a beautiful M8 with the upgraded 8.2 shutter in November. I knew I was holding something special when I saw the shutter speed dial topped out at 1/4000th and the almost new appearance of the camera. That combined with my local Indianapolis store (Roberts) including a 180 day warranty on used gear removed much of the risk I felt in purchasing an 11yr old used digital camera. Like you mentioned in your video, the M9 corrosion issue (and the fact that the free warranty repair ended in August for that camera) made it too risky for me to consider. I’m currently shooting the M8 with a 1970 50mm Summicron and a modern 35mm Summarit with my favorite images coming from the M8/Summicron combo. I can’t describe how much fun I have with this camera and I enjoy the look on peoples’ faces when I tell them that the image came from an 11yr old camera with a lens from 1970. I didn’t think it was possible, but I have stopped looking at gear thanks to this camera. I have no desire to “upgrade” because I love the way the M8 challenges me, I love its unmatched feel/build quality, and I love that the tiny (by modern standards) file sizes zip through Lightroom and rarely need any adjustments. Thanks again for producing your reviews. They were immensely helpful to me!

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Thats a great story. I hope you get many fun memories captured with the camera :)

[@weldermarshall]

Another great review Mattias, I purchased a M8u a few months ago and can’t believe the results you get from a 10mp sensor. It replaces a Fuji X pro1 and lenses I had that I just couldn’t get on with. The M8 is now being used more than my film M and screw mount bodies.

[@Ironcrypt]

Your old video of the m8 was where i fell in love with it. The thought of owning one made me crazy and so 4 months ago i got one. And i love it. Thanks for you advice

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Ironcrypt That's great :)

[@MiladJPanah]

I am going to watch this video in a couple seconds but let me make something clear. I had a pretty bad night at work and family matters are bugging me. I can barely sleep but to see that you uploaded another video about one of my favorite cameras with your classical and unique stlye is making me pretty happy right now. thank you Mattias

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

M JP I hope it lifted the mood :)

[@MiladJPanah]

Mattias Burling it did a lot brother. Thank you

[@SkylerKing]

I KNEW an M8 video was coming! Been loving the Instagram posts!

[@ohmwai]

sometimes when i'm stressed i just come to listen to your voice and see the photos in your video.

[@mazhermuneer1097]

Mattias, this video just like your last M8 video has embedded itself deep in my neurons, and now all I can think about is getting an M8

[@palme8218]

I finally bought an M8 after watching this video, along with a zeiss 35/2. and it is just amazing what this 10+ year old camera can do.. thanks for the tip Mattias!

[@howardtowler6146]

Amazing video. I always wanted a Leica. Nearly almost bought one in 1988 . maybe one day.

[@chinnarciso]

I just love the mood of your videos. Damn I literally stopped typing my case study to watch and that was relaxing. love it

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Chin Narciso Thanks :)

[@thedondeluxe6941]

These images look absolutely gorgeous! Reminds me of my old Canon EOS 5D classic.

[@raygoodwin2303]

7:16. Exactly! I don't really see the need for a higher ISO than 3200-6400. With a fast prime lens, you'll be fine. It's one reason why I still use a Canon 5D MK1.

[@CockatooDude]

That heavily depends on what you want to take pictures of.

[@KutWrite]

I'd add one item besides his listed "faster lens or get a flash:" Monopod or tripod. Probably not necessary in "normal" latitudes, though. I remember when ASA (ISO) 320 in colo(u)r oor 1200 in B&W was "pushing" film.

[@natehansen08]

I never in a million years thought a camera review could make me feel this emotional...

[@MrBillboeing]

Nice video and also nice pictures. I sold my Nikon gear. With this money I bought my Leica M8. I never looked back. For me the biggest plus beside the amazing picture quality is the size. I left the Nikon often at home because of the size and weight. The Leica is just easier to carry around and shot pictures. If you like the interaction and can live with the limitations of ISO , no AF than it’s the perfect tool. Used Voigtlander or Zeiss glass is affordable and easy to find on the internet.

[@KutWrite]

My problem with Leica was using it for macro or even extreme closeups or for 200mm + equivalent telephotos. I had an M4 in the 70s and though I loved the quality of the camera and its pictures, that damned Visoflex was a pain. Without a live-view LCD, I still would not buy an Leica. I still don't get the "red/black/no dot" stuff. I guess I can go look it up.

[@alexaugustyniak7046]

Just purchase one, can't wait for it to arrive. Also pre-ordering the APO Summicron F2. Will be interested to see what kind of imagery I can create with modern glass and the legendary output from this CCD sensor

[@markbroeksteeg3748]

Yes, still my favorite reviewer. Yet again, a totally immersive and engaging review. Almost worth the 30 day wait since your last review ;-)

[@bryanzafare8591]

I like it when a picture tells a story even when muted.

[@northstar1950]

Lovely, no numerous confusing menus, no fiddly knobs or buttons, just like a film camera :)

[@andrelousada]

I love the CCD! I still have a D80 that gives me things that I can not get with other "better" cameras!

[@arkofconversation4115]

Your photos had so much feeling. Truly loved the video.

[@DavidHernandezLALofts]

I was able to pick up one for $1125 US. Excellent condition with 30 day return policy from Adorama. It's already been with me to Hong Kong and Thailand. The photos this camera takes are excellent! I also have a Sony A7rii but enjoying shooting with the Leica for my street photography shots.

[@someonewithsomename.4044]

I don't even know what's a P in photography and C in camera is but I love Mattias videos so much that....

[@raiderfilm]

Very well crafted video, Leica cameras have that feel that no other camera has!

[@goodmythicalmukbang3757]

Everytime i watch this it gives me chills. I have experienced all the pleasures you mention while using this system.

[@chad0063]

Just learning about and getting into Leicas and found your content. Awesome stuff; 2021 and your vid is still appreciated!

[@Tilan123]

Ugh I absolutely love watching your reviews, there’s a certain charm to it. Just like the Nokia one you did. Beautiful, keep it up!

[@davehenderson9105]

Always enjoy your videos and your original M8 video is one of my favorites! Its so great that this camera still stands the test of time and I will one day soon own one :-)

[@andgainingspeed]

Regardless of the hardware used, I like your shooting style. If hardware inspires people to take more pictures it doesn't matter what kind it is. Phone, P&S, DSLR, mirrorless, digital or film, can all get brilliant results as long as you can work within whatever tradeoff or limitation your choice in gear presents.

[@TenisDimants]

Beautifuly done video. With great details and truly calming.

[@stealthworx4371]

Hands down my fav Photography channel on youtube rn!

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Cool :)

[@withaminutetogo]

Mattias you are amazing. What a lovely tribute to this camera.

[@codadeo]

Nice video. I just purchased a used M8, plus a Zeiss 28mm lens with IR filter. Your video gave me confidence. I am finally fulfilling a lifetime dream. Thank you.

[@dimaspradipta5445]

this is such a beautiful video, the music, the content, nicely done mate

[@danielmiller3509]

A very perceptive review, Mattias. M8 it is! Happy New Year!

[@djtoman6875]

Sure it's worth it. Even the Digilux 2, one of the earliest digital cameras, is still a tremendously enjoyable camera and can be used to make beautiful photos all these years later. But as you say in the review, you have to know its limitations and embrace and/or work around them.

[@borispradel1037]

I havent had the opportunity to see the M8 output directly on my computer, but colors and pixel depth remind me of the Canon 5D (original) and 30D. Those had this organic feeling and vibrant colors that newer bodies (not even 5D MKII) can yield.

[@w1nterblind]

Been subscribed to you for a long time and love your channel. Just wanted to say you have an incredibly soothing voice and your videos are chill as fuck.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Mark Przepiora Thank you, Im glad you enjoy them!

[@sammsamuels]

Your videos are absolutely fantastic! they have such a nostalgic feeling. great job!

[@mike.thomas]

Really nice video. I sometimes miss my M8. I kept my M-mount lenses, so I can always go back (shoot with my Sony and an adapter in the meantime).

[@jllanesphoto]

Mattias, thank you so much. Up put me over the hill on buying an M8. I have an M240, Leica Q, and M4. Had an m9 and upgraded to the M240. Nothing beats a CCD. I am in the process of getting an M8. Thanks for your videos. Learned alot. Your stand develop video is also great. Regards, Jerry LLanes. Ps, Love you beautiful dog. That guy is a movie star.

[@bryans8653]

Hey love your videos! And you just convinced me to get an m8. Have one on the way right now. Can't wait to try it out!

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

I envy you. There's nothing like the first honeymoon period with the first digital M.

[@Cyriljayant]

This is still my favorite camera. Yes,​ It had a few issues from the start but they were sorted out. It is my to-go camera among many others including M6 and M9. yes I need a slim charger -M8.2

[@GBlaque]

I have an M8 and I barely use it.... I really would like to take it out again but my life is boring now. Thanks for the video. It makes me want to show my M8 some more love.

[@le1ca.]

Greatest Leica review. I’m literally watching this every day. Please do a review of M10-D if you got a chance. I’m sure would love it. Calming voice and the editing. Cannot find any fancy words but I really love your channel.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

I chose the MD 264 over the M10-D and made a video about that instead.

[@KutWrite]

Nice refreshing & relaxing video, including the music. I feel recharged now... Probably won't buy a Leica again, but it's nice to know what it would be like-a. I do have a Panasonic GX8, which so far is close enough. (later: Naah traded for a Canon EOS-M6) Love the shots of little Gunpowder - she has so much character. She seems to have seen it all. My favorite pic is the one of the little girl looking into the music store.

[@hinonchau9237]

Because of this video, I decided to buy a Leica M8. I just paid for the deposit...can't wait to get it after 2 weeks and bring it to Japan for this winter break. Hope the 35mm 2.0 can help the low ISO of M8. Thank you so much for your video.

[@hinonchau9237]

Thanks for your Like...haha BTW do you think the LeicaM8 can work under snowing weather?

[@cobydate3845]

u are the best and most humble photographer here in youtube channel. Good job, keep going^^

[@benficaM8888]

i don't know why. i own both m240 and m8. but i keep coming back to m8, and enjoy shooting with it more. The super loud shutter rewind sound, the iso limiation, the imperfection of ccd sensor, not having an EVF, terrible LCD. makes M8 felt much more like a film camera. And on the way out i always grab this instead of my M240, my Fuji x100v, or my sony a7iii

[@gabrieldeanroberts]

I’ve labored over the m8, m9 or the Q and for my purposes I think I’ll get the most and be able to do the most with the Leica Q. Your review of it helped to convince me. I’m all digital, so the slicker, more modern format will serve my purposes well. Thanks again for another great vid!

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

You cant go wrong with any of them :)

[@SamuSaurama]

Thanks for the beautiful story of a beautiful piece of equipment. And very beautiful photos :) !

[@RobMoses]

Good video Mattias. Thanks for all the good info. I might just pick on of these up.

[@seansiquig]

aw when he said “cheap” i was thinking like $100... HAHAH yeah i’m a Canon M50 owner...

[@aaronchew]

SeanThePro you should try the original Fujifilm X100 if your into this

[@gohumberto]

I love my M50 with the 22mm f/2 for street photography.

[@KevinEscobarCo]

We gotta get you in the Leica family!!

[@andrewpemberton7601]

Matthias. I really like this review. In fact I like it so much it convinced me to go out and by my first Leica - a lovely mint condition M8, together with a very old 5cm f/2 Summitar. I’m delighted with it. Many thanks. Andrew

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Im glad you enjoy the camera :)

[@myleicam8546]

Congratulations for the video, a a real pleasure.

[@16-bit-trip5]

Love you videos and your channel, seeing your photos makes me want to go out an shoot!

[@henrysiegertsz8204]

Heartwarming review Mattias, entertaining as always!

[@VishalVoraUK]

Beautifully said. I love my M8, had it since new.

[@daviehudson4270]

seriously thinking about buying one in 2019 to be a friend to my M3

[@avocado3678]

This channel is paradise to me. subscribed!

[@Eric_Rossi]

Price alone if I didn't have my x pro 2, the m8 would be my choice if I wanted to go Leica.

[@disrespank]

I compared M8 to X-Pro2 and bought X-Pro2, 0 regrets!

[@Cryptopaja]

So nice and relaxing video , I will never understand how can anybody give you a thumbs down 👎..... it’s always thumbs up 👍🏻 for me !!!! Just one silly question: how are the Jpegs on M8 please any good.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

I dont think Ive ever tried the jpegs on it :)

[@nicholasclayton1587]

Mattias’ experience with the M8 is definitive. He knows what he’s saying. The only way to use this camera is to shoot raw. The jpegs don’t realize anywhere near the full potential of the sensor.

[@thientrieu91291]

awesome review. If you like this camera, you'll love the Epson RD1

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Trieu Tran Its cool but I prefer the M8.

[@paullsmith1867]

Grea review! I think you sold me on it. I’ve been lamenting not taking photos the way that I did in the eighties and nineties. There is much to be said for understanding craft.

[@harryyajann]

I have been looking at the M8 since the last video that you made. One day, I will own this beauty! :)

[@snoek1971]

Harry Telajan Go for it Harry! I am lucky to own both the M8 and M9 and the M8 surely has a special place in my heart, I still use it along the M9☺️

[@darkstepwarrior88]

wow what a nice relaxing review. especially the piano music.

[@HolgerThoss]

Thanks for pointing out the charm of the M8! I totally agree with Mattias in all points about the M8. I shoot with M8, M9 and M240 (and M4P & M6). I love all of them for different reasons but the M8 is still in the game and has not been made obsolete by newer digital Ms.

[@TheJayGeeDubya]

Maybe you mentioned it and I missed it. But the sound this thing makes when you take a picture is worth it alone. It’s like closing the door on an old school s-class Mercedes. Just incredible and will keep you pressing the button.

[@Eliaspraciano]

I feel so involved in your videos that I almost forget to like

[@anthonymilner1851]

I've had my M8 since 2011, best camera I have ever had, Superb quality colour, B&W and IR images Cheers!

[@PostColorGear]

Another great video! Happy new Year, Mattias!

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

The Post Color Blog happy new year!

[@Mati-ww9mu]

Great as always. If only I had the money...

[@buheqin3026]

After watching this excellent video, I will definitely buy a M8

[@damianwatson5443]

Thank you very much for your help. Damian

[@sutherland559]

loved my M8. Sold it and love my M9 even more. Both amazing cameras.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Ruprick I did the same but in reverse :)

[@sutherland559]

Love your vids. Thanks!

[@darioludi9973]

Hi Mattias. Thank you so much for all the effort you put into your videos. I love watching them. Especially this one. I have seen it over and over again! And now, I am a proud owner of Leica M8 myself. It is a silver one though and came with a Voigtländer lens instead. It is truly amazing! Thanks for sharing your experiences and convincing me to buy one myself. Oh, and thanks for ruining my bank account ;) Keep up the good work. Best regards from Switzerland!

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

dario lüdi Enjoy your Leica!

[@pickandstring]

Love watching your video, it's like poetry!

[@kiwipics]

I agree with you on restricted ISO settings, as I still have my old Canon 10d, and I still like to use it. Great video as always.

[@stijnhamming3167]

One day I'll have the money, one day.

[@ADARSH-ev4cf]

Stijn Hamming i can feel you

[@budsyremo]

not into photography but love your channel.

[@Pembers357]

Just bought a beautiful, black paint M8.2. It’s pristine.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Have fun!

[@GearZenChannel]

Shot my M8 at night in an outdoor market. I was just fine at iso 640, f2 and 1/60 down to 1/30 or so. You need to be careful, but got some stunning shots.

[@Biosynchro]

Based on my limited experience with the camera, I would suggest that you can meter for 1250, set ISO to 640, and increase exposure in software. It's slightly better than setting the ISO to 1250. This has been confirmed by other people.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

I keep it at 320 is absolute darkness and just raise it later.

[@GearZenChannel]

I converted 80% of the night shots to b&w.

[@Biosynchro]

Did you use chrominance NR? Luminance NR is useless and I almost never use it, but chrominance NR is very, very useful.

[@DamianBrown]

Yes, great timing :D I was just wondering when your next video was out :)

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Damian Brown I hope you enjoy it :)

[@DamianBrown]

It's another winner! And I am jealous of the camera again :)

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Time to hit eBay ;)

[@DamianBrown]

You know I do this every time I watch your channel :P But I'm about to travel so I can't spend :(

[@mejram2044]

När man letar efter olika kameror... Hamnar alltid här hos dig! 👏😍

[@Ed-lz4jv]

nice shots from old camera, Just got a used Fuji X100T....Love the layout, fast fixed lens and Film simulations, close enough for me.

[@Magnetron692]

Hi Mattias, many thanks! I like the rangefinder. I’m very happy with my Nikon Z6 as well. Best, Ralf

[@jostakesphotos]

Nice " look back " review. Nice camera too, but I stay with my Fuji X-Pro 1. But a nice start for a happy 2018!

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

The X-Pro1 is also a nice camera so that's probably the right move :)

[@MrBasjunk]

Stunning video Matthias - I also have the Leica m8. To me it's just as great as any new digital camera. It does what a camera does best - takes pictures simple as that. I like cameras but the feeling of the Leica is true - it just feels like a true camera.

[@gearreallydoesntmatter]

Bastian Junker True that!