flamenco
2881
Conclusion
So here's the Conclusion (well, mine at least ...)
Pros:
1. Amazing CCD Sensor. Its almost 5 yrs old, still puts some newer sensors to shame. Goes to show a great sensor has nothing to do with megapixels. Level of details @ low ISO is simply amazing ! Go on ... reach out and pick up the hammer
2. Amazing Dynamic Range. Shoot in raw and try puling the highlights and shadows, its all there even if you dun see it at first. (below shot was rescued from deliberate under exposure)
3. Simple Menu, intuitive, quick access to all controls
4. Superb Form Factor and Ergonomics, although heavy to some hands
5. If u like bokeh ie "dreamy" photos. There is none better out there ! (just take a look below)
Cons:
1. Noise above ISO1250 is unbearable to my eye .... which limits its use for most, especially when the sunsets.
2. Battery Life sux (sorry for my language ... it most definitely does) / Not the easiest to access batt & SD card
3. Slight yellow tinge, however, WB can be easily corrected in LR/PS.
4. Poor performance in strong sunlight, even with ND filter. (perhaps I have not quite gotten the hang of it)
4. If u have or think u have failing eyesight, this is not for you. In my first few couple days of use, I swore I thought I went blind !
5. If you are expected all guns blazing DSLR performance, u got another thing coming
6. The moire is there, if you go looking hard enough (see roof tiles in photo below)
6. Lens flare (actually its more a lens issue) is quite terrible vs the competition (see sample below)
A Rangefinder is most certainly NOT for everyone. The learning curve is STEEP. Brings one back to days of film and full manual operations. Makes one realise, we have taken photography for granted and how much the camera is making decision on your behalf, unknowingly.
A Rangefinder takes no prisoners, and produces rubbish if u Do Not understand the fundamentals of photography .... Nail that, and it will be an extremely rewarding, albeit some patience needed .....
Can I recommend the M-E or a Leica ?
In all candor, probably NOT ! (which probably reveals my age ... LOL) A very niche piece of equipment. Steadfast and patience are virtues that are much in demand when handling such a revered piece of equipment. Best suited for street photography and mastering zone focusing is a must !
For its limited usage (in my context at least) , it is a very expensive piece of light capturing device , which is best left to those who scored As in physics !
So is a Leica for u ? Why not try it and make your own conclusion ........
With that I leave u with a final photo .....
"Dancing Phoenix & Mountain Dragon"
This message has been edited by flamenco on 2013-09-02 02:53:27