Looking Back at the Leica 100 Celebration from New York City
Recapping the best photography event of the year (so far)
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Leica I, the first mass-produced 35mm camera. A full century of Leica magic is no small feat, so naturally, the brand is celebrating in style with a global tour of events, product releases, and just the right amount of champagne.
Two weeks ago, Leica Camera USA threw a proper celebration in New York City. I had the pleasure of being both an invited guest and host for some free events. Between the talks, photo walks, and surprise reunions, the weekend was a blur of creativity and caffeine.
For those who couldn’t make it, I wanted to share what unfolded that weekend and reflect on the experience. Enjoy.
Disclaimer: this is a longer piece with many images. This story is best experienced online at Church & Street or through the Substack app. If you’re viewing this as an email, there’s a good chance it may not load properly.
The Recap
New York means different things to different people. To me, it’s a hotbed for creativity and community. There’s no city like it. It’s still the only place where I look out the window as the plane descends, like I’m seeing it for the first time.
I landed late, so night one was all about rest. I needed it. The next day was set to begin with something completely wild, in the best way possible. I was picking up my first black paint Leica. And not just any one. A limited edition M11.
To celebrate the centennial, Leica released 100 black paint and numbered M11 cameras for six unique cities: Wetzlar, Milan, Dubai, Tokyo, Shanghai, and New York. I wasn’t planning on getting one originally but then came a trade-in opportunity and, well, I caved. Happily.
Leica, for me, has always been about the story. To own a camera that not only earns a permanent place in my kit, but also represents a city I love, a milestone campaign, and a community that’s become a second home, that’s worth far more than a spec sheet. The fact that I got mine in my lucky number? That sealed it.
My friends Jason and Kevin were also picking theirs up. Numbers 1 and 100, respectively. Since the stars aligned and we had a bit of time to spare, we filmed a quick unboxing together.
It’s rare that we’re all in the same city at the same time. So when it happens, we try to create something. A spec ad, a video, a portrait session. This time, it was a simple unboxing to show off the cameras while they were still gleaming.
With our new Leicas in hand, we headed to the opening night event at the Leica New York Meatpacking store. The place was buzzing. Walking in felt like the best kind of reunion. There were familiar faces everywhere. From the Leica team to so many in the creative community. My heart was full before I even crossed the floor.
The evening kicked off with the unveiling of a gallery featuring Bruce Davidson and Sara Messinger, followed by welcome words from the legendary Ralph Gibson. Then, the room dissolved into conversation, connection, and that effortless Leica camaraderie that seems to show up wherever the red dot does.
At some point, I needed a drink, so a few of us headed upstairs. What I wasn’t expecting was to be hit in the chest with pride.
There, projected 30 feet wide on the terrace wall, was my film—the one my team and I created for the Leica SL3-S launch. It played on a loop throughout the night. I stood there speechless, heart thumping. Mike G, President of Leica Camera USA, introduced me to the crowd, and the love my team and I felt in that moment was something I won’t forget.
So often, we create in isolation. We release work into the world without ever witnessing how people receive it. But that night, I saw it. I felt it. To share that film in such a big way, at such a special event, with the people who understand the heart behind it all? That was something else.
A huge thank you to the entire Leica Camera USA team for the surprise. You really got us.
After a long, winding night filled with deep conversations, louder laughter, and one too many New York slices, I had to call it. Sleep was non-negotiable. The next day, I’d be hosting something I was genuinely excited about.
For months, Leica and I had been working on an idea: a free event series that would introduce the filmmaking power of the Leica SL3-S to the wider photo community. We finally launched the first edition during the centennial weekend.
The concept was simple. If I could show just how approachable and powerful video can be on a Leica, more photographers might be tempted to explore motion as part of their storytelling. So, we built a full-day experience called Video for Photographers. This crash course designed to help still shooters dip their toes (or dive headfirst) into video.
It was a long day, but a fulfilling one. We had thoughtful questions, engaged attendees, and some great back-and-forth throughout. By the end, my theory held up. Whether someone was brand new or already experimenting with motion, we gave them the confidence to take that next step.
And now, I can’t wait to bring this to more cities and keep the momentum going.
After a night of music and tacos (a perfect pairing, really), day three kicked off with an even fuller schedule. More events, more faces, and even more chances to connect with the Leica community.
The morning began with the unveiling of the public exhibition at Gansevoort Plaza. The space was alive with energy. There were rare cameras on display, immersive installations, a portrait booth run by the legendary Mark Mann, and a steady hum of excitement throughout. At the heart of it all was a beautiful celebration of photography, curated by the incomparable Paris Chong.
Among the work featured was one of my own: The Schoolgirl. To see it included in this collection, in such a dynamic setting, was something I’ll never forget.
It was one of those quiet, grounding moments. A small pause to look back and realize just how far the road has taken me.
What pushed this moment over the top was hearing the opening remarks at the plaza while, in the background, my film played once again on a big screen. It was surreal.
Naturally, I had to capture it. A quick photo with two of the talented creatives who helped bring that piece to life. A small gesture to mark a very cool moment in a weekend full of them.
The pace wouldn’t let up. We headed over to a special showcase that was previewing some of the rarest Leica cameras that would be going up for auction next month. If you haven’t already, check out the catalog online because the story behind some of this pieces are just wild.
I then stopped by a panel hosted by Brandon Ruffin and featuring some of my friends. It was a great conversation exploring many points of the creative journey. Once that wrapped, it was time for me to head over to another event I was hosting: a street portraiture walk.
I’ll be honest, most photo walks bore me. So when it came time to host one, I wanted to create something that felt engaging, challenging, and actually fun. Judging by the feedback during and after the event, I think my team and I pulled it off.
In just two fast-paced hours, we packed in a lot: creative assignments, off-camera flash techniques, and even a reminder about the value of stepping in front of the camera as photographers. But the real highlight? Watching people push their creativity and discover new ways to tell stories.
Below is one of my favourite images from the event, captured by Léa Leyva—a New Yorker and phenomenal creative with an incredible eye.
Huge thanks to everyone who joined my photo walk. The energy you brought was unforgettable, and because of that, I’m more excited than ever to take this experience to more communities around the world.
After a quick outfit change, it was time to head to the final event of the weekend: an intimate dinner with some of the most talented individuals in the Leica community. These dinners are always a highlight for me. They create space for deeper conversations, a chance to sit across from legendary photographers and really connect.
This time, I had the privilege of meeting someone I’ve admired for years.
David Butow is a master of reportage and portrait photography. He’s spent his career stepping into some of the world’s most charged environments, capturing images that reveal the state of humanity in ways words alone simply can’t. In my eyes, he’s one of the best doing it.
The window for me to become a photojournalist has long closed, but that genre remains my greatest source of inspiration. To meet with David, ask real questions, and hear about his journey firsthand—that meant the world to me.
Thank you, David. I’m truly grateful for your time and hope we cross paths again soon.
New York just hits different. So it felt only right to close out this leg of the Leica 100 celebrations with a show that matched the energy.
Enter ÖOF TATATA.
Led by the ever-electric Mike Hayes, powered by Kenny Borill on drums, and featuring none other than Jason Momoa, the performance was loud, raw, and unforgettable. A proper send-off to a weekend packed with some serious Leica magic.
There was no shortage of cameras at the show, so I decided to get a little weird with it and capture moments that felt more like what I was actually feeling.
With everything that led up to that night, the rain crashing against giant windows, the lights cutting through the haze, punk and metal pounding from the speakers, and some of my favourite people around me—it was unforgettable.
I’ve had the fortune of attending exclusive events hosted by all the major camera brands, and I can say with confidence—nothing feels more authentic than what Leica creates.
It’s not about swag bags, gimmicks, or endless conversations about follower counts and algorithm hacks. No shade to those who enjoy that, but I’d much rather be in a room where photography still matters. Where the creative journey is front and centre.
And no one fosters that kind of space better than Leica.
Previous Favourites
NEW May Gift Card Contest
This month, I’ll be giving away another $200 gift card to the Moment Shop where the winner can save big on their next camera, lens, bag, or courses. Moment has so many creative products to choose from and $200 can absolutely make for a great deal.
How will I pick the winner? Make sure you’re signed up for this newsletter then leave a comment on at least one post from this month. I’ll be randomly picking one person, confirming they meet the requirements and contacting them directly before announcing the winner publicly.
Once again, this contest is void where prohibited by law. Good luck!
My thanks to the team at Moment! Not only for this contest but for being the longest supporter of my work online. They’re a lean team of passionate creators that truly believe in supporting other creatives on their journey. Whether it’s a new camera, lens, workshop, or just some great articles, visit ShopMoment.com today.
What’s Next?
One of the most meaningful takeaways from this event was meeting so many of you who read and engage with Church & Street. Hearing your stories and the paths that brought you here was incredibly special.
With May wrapping up, I’ve got a few how-to stories lined up—but what really has me excited is what June has in store. I’ll be on the road quite a bit, and as you probably know by now, that usually means some of the most entertaining stories end up right here.
If you want a behind-the-scenes look at the trips and projects before they hit the page, follow along on Instagram and hop into my broadcast channel for a few exclusive teasers.
GB
Perfect recap. Such a great time.
I read the whole.
It was a great event.