what I could make the leica do










These are scanned from negatives that I took using a Leica M6 with a Summicron 50mm lens. I tested the camera using different types of natural lighting from very brightly lit to artificial lighting at night. I also used shutter speeds as low as 1/4sec and openings as large as f/2. One thing I notice is that the lens really take good detail with photos taken at a speed no lower than 1/30 sec. In addition, details are great at f/5.6, below this is like playing crap shoot. Those pictures I took using f/2.0 is not any better than the pictures I took at f/2.0 using the much cheaper canonet ql-17. However, there is a big difference in picture quality when taking pictures in the usual daylight photos handheld where the camera really captures a lot of detail that tend to be soft on the canonet ql-17 using the same lighting conditions. For this alone, the Leica is worth its steep price. After taking the photos, I also re-read the manual because there are parts I could not figure out. For its steep price, the leica does not have a self timer. So the only self photos you can take are those pointed to a mirror. I would not just trust a stranger to take my picture with my Leica. I will have to make do with my other cameras for this. I also figured out which viewfinder guide was to be used for a 50mm lens. I can see why this camera was used by photo journalists as well as film buffs who specialize in street photography. I recently found a lens hood and cover for the summicron. But then it is still on its way to me in the mail. I hope it arrives next week otherwise, I will have to keep the Leica in a box in a safe. MMMM which reminds me, I did not buy this darn thing so I can keep it in a safe! All photos © 2005 daddywasabi.