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M9 Conclusions
This discussion apply equally to the Leica M-E, esssentially a rebadged M9.
I was drawn to the M9 for it’s compact and lightweight form factor containing a very high quality full-frame sensor. That combination remains unique even in early 2012, nearly three years after its introduction. Combined with the minimalist Leica approach to controls, the result is an eminently usable and ergonomic camera (though compositional and focusing challenges are problematic for general uses and users).
The M9 has grown on me over time. The image quality from its CCD can be gorgeous, and the form factor is wonderful. However, the Sony NEX-7 and other ALLVIEW cameras show that the future might produce a camera superior in size, weight, resolution and usability, and maybe even ergonomics. The NEX-7 is not that camera, but it has bridged the gap considerably (it falls badly short in ergonomics and its sensor is not full-frame).
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Diglloyd Guide to LEICA contains in-depth coverage of Leica M system cameras and lenses, with additional coverage of Leica M Monochrom, Leica Q.
Special emphasis is placed on Leica M lenses and certain Zeiss ZM lenses.
- Make better images by learning how to get the best results right away.
- Save money by choosing the right lens for your needs the first time, particularly the Summilux/Summicron/Elmarit choice and/or Zeiss ZM.
- Make better images, a sort of “cheat sheet” saving yourself months or years of ad-hoc learning. Processing parameters are discussed and shown.
- Jaw-dropping image quality found nowhere else utilizing Retina-grade images up to full camera resolution, plus large crops [past 2 years or so].
- Real world examples with insights found nowhere else. Make sharper images just by understanding lens behavior you won’t read about elsewhere.
- Aperture series from wide open through stopped down, showing the full range of lens performance and bokeh.
- Optical quality analysis of field curvature, focus shift, sharpness, flare, distortion, and performance in the field.
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