I’d agree with your need for a professional service, but I don’t think that will happen.
If you look at their marketing strategy, it is clear that they a luxury brand (like Rolex) before they are a camera company. I think people overlook this. They make fine, often very fine things that work but are ultimately designed more for status consumption over utility when push comes to shove. It doesn’t mean the design isn’t great, it doesn’t mean they don’t have great utility, but I would bet that if Leica had to rank their priorities, utility comes behind brand image. This isn’t me knocking anyone who wants to use one. I’ve shot with Leicas for most of my career, even on jobs from time to time, still do. When they work, there is nothing more enjoyable or engaging to use. I’d never rely on the brand to be a workhorse/default option, even though I would love to.
When they don’t work, which in my experience is much more often than any of the Japanese brands, say goodbye for months (and months, and months…) at a time, and to pay a premium. For most working photographers the cost is simply prohibitive all around - one Leica body is often what it takes for two of another brand - your redundancy is built in. The difference in results are so specific and niche that it really has no bearing on the success of the work. But that’s the thing, Leica isn’t really marketing towards working photographers.
FWIW, I prefer the X2d for the native aspect ratio, the color, and the physical form of the camera itself. The IQ is slightly better yes, but it’s hard to make that a big selling point for most uses IMO. That, and I work slowly.
If speed/versatility is a need the SL3 is clearly the better option. In the end they’re both so ridiculously good they are not going to be to blame for any issues a photographer has.
I recently picked up the original SL (601) with the 28-70mm SL, and I am enjoying the process of figuring out a new camera; settings, and what works and what doesn't. The best part is now on rainy days (which by far are my favorite times to shoot) I don't have to worry about the gear. If I am lucky enough to get my hands on the SL3 this post will be my default for working through it. Good read and great images 🤙🏼
Great read!
Thanks for reading brother ✌🏾
I’d agree with your need for a professional service, but I don’t think that will happen.
If you look at their marketing strategy, it is clear that they a luxury brand (like Rolex) before they are a camera company. I think people overlook this. They make fine, often very fine things that work but are ultimately designed more for status consumption over utility when push comes to shove. It doesn’t mean the design isn’t great, it doesn’t mean they don’t have great utility, but I would bet that if Leica had to rank their priorities, utility comes behind brand image. This isn’t me knocking anyone who wants to use one. I’ve shot with Leicas for most of my career, even on jobs from time to time, still do. When they work, there is nothing more enjoyable or engaging to use. I’d never rely on the brand to be a workhorse/default option, even though I would love to.
When they don’t work, which in my experience is much more often than any of the Japanese brands, say goodbye for months (and months, and months…) at a time, and to pay a premium. For most working photographers the cost is simply prohibitive all around - one Leica body is often what it takes for two of another brand - your redundancy is built in. The difference in results are so specific and niche that it really has no bearing on the success of the work. But that’s the thing, Leica isn’t really marketing towards working photographers.
This might be apples and oranges but could you make a post comparing the SL3 to the Hassleblad X2D?
Thanks for the suggestion. I feel like the crux of it is explained here but I’ll keep it in mind for the future. Thanks for reading ✌🏾
Yeah that is true, the SL3 will probably be amazing for most people including myself. Just GAS talking.
FWIW, I prefer the X2d for the native aspect ratio, the color, and the physical form of the camera itself. The IQ is slightly better yes, but it’s hard to make that a big selling point for most uses IMO. That, and I work slowly.
If speed/versatility is a need the SL3 is clearly the better option. In the end they’re both so ridiculously good they are not going to be to blame for any issues a photographer has.
I recently picked up the original SL (601) with the 28-70mm SL, and I am enjoying the process of figuring out a new camera; settings, and what works and what doesn't. The best part is now on rainy days (which by far are my favorite times to shoot) I don't have to worry about the gear. If I am lucky enough to get my hands on the SL3 this post will be my default for working through it. Good read and great images 🤙🏼
-John
Congrats! And thanks for reading brother ✌🏾
This was very interesting to read 🤔 despite not wanting to get it because of the price 🥲
Thanks for reading ✌🏾