The new Leica D-Lux 8 is a much-anticipated addition to the range, hailed as the missing entry model in the true Leica family. Its predecessor, worthy as it was, always suffered from suggestions that it was just a rebadged Panasonic. This criticism was unfair, of course, but there is no avoiding the fact that the appearance, control layout and menu options were more Lumix than Leica.
Want to become a Macfilos author? Macfilos is an entirely voluntary organisation, and we rely on an enthusiastic team of authors from around the world. Many of them started writing first for Macfilos and have since developed to the extent that their articles are in demand from other photographic sites. It’s a rewarding pursuit and one that clearly brings a lot of pleasure to our authors.
If you are wondering what has happened to our flow of articles, here’s the answer. We’re taking a short summer break. We announced it beneath last week’s D-Lux 8 review, but it’s obvious some readers didn’t see that. As a result, we’ve had several emails from concerned folks asking if we are all still alive. We are, but we are having a rest. Not only that, we’re using the time to sit down and write some of those articles we’ve had our eyes on but didn’t get around to producing.
The gear choices available to photography enthusiasts can be overwhelming. Which sensor size, lens type, camera brand, are amongst the most common factors to consider when buying new kit. This week, we look at stories illustrating that it’s possible to take quite different types of photos with your existing kit, or choose less expensive camera gear that competes favourably with more expensive brands.
Does the “classic digital” camera exist, or is the term an oxymoron? Many believe that a classic is, by definition, a film camera. But evidence now points to the opposite, and supports the case for the classic digital compact. After nearly three decades of digital photography, interest in older digitals —mostly compacts — is burgeoning. Photographers are being encouraged to dig into their drawers and explore their attics for early examples of point and shooters from the early years. And it’s then a short step to canonisation at the earliest opportunity, with the resultant scramble for examples of the lucky targets and steadily rising prices on the ‘Bay.
Third-party lenses for Leica may be good and affordable. But they can’t communicate with your camera. This is a disadvantage in more ways than one. But the problem can be solved. Here, I show some solutions for owners or prospective buyers of Zeiss, Voigtländer, Thypoch, 7Artisans, TTArtisans, Laowa and other third-party lenses.
In many walks of life, speed is valuable. But just how great is the need for speed in photography? This week, we have stories addressing situations where either fast or slow is preferred. Did you realize the benefit of having a faster sensor? If not, we have a nerdy video for you that reveals all. And are you a photographer who prioritises lens weight over speed? Then you might enjoy a review of an incredibly versatile new zoom lens for L-Mount.
Leica recently announced the shortlist of photographers selected for this year’s prestigious Leica Oskar Barnack Award (LOBA). A five-person jury whittled down a plethora of submissions to choose the twelve that made it to the list. The company will announce the eventual winners of LOBA 2024 in October.
The Fujifilm X100VI belongs to a select band of fixed, wide-angle-lens cameras that has taken the photographic world by storm. All have achieved cult status, all are on backorder or in very short supply, and none of them is discounted as a result. Photographers can’t wait to get their hands on them and, in some cases, are willing to pay a hefty premium. The Fuji, the Ricoh GR III and the Leica Q3 are all regarded as ideal cameras for street and general photography.
As we know, there is more to photography than just owning a camera, although that’s a good place to start. Unless you want to buy a Fuji X100VI, that is. In which case, you might want to think again, and check out some alternatives. And what about depreciation, or even value appreciation? We have some insights to share on this very topic, and a reminder about a book to help you navigate the vintage Leica world. If you splashed out and bought a Leica Q3, we have news about a couple of cool accessories. And even if you haven’t, we have some gear news you can use about linking your camera to your computer.
If you are like most photographers, you own more than one lens. In fact, you might well own numerous lenses, covering a range of focal-lengths. Primes, zooms, wide-angles, telephotos: they come in all weights, sizes, and speeds. But, among your collection, might there be a favourite? Perhaps one that delivers incredible images? Or one with which you have an emotional attachment? Let me tell you about my favourite lens.
Film is not dead. What started as a claim with a hashtag has become a vivid reality now. And this year will bring us one more new – and potentially exciting – film camera: The Rollei 35AF will be available from October. Let’s consider what we might expect, and what know already know.
A new camera — always an enticing prospect. Be it a newly launched product or the new acquisition of some classic model: we all enjoy the thrill of such a novelty. And the industry is always ready to whet our appetite. Here we go with a multi-course menu, including one or two interesting side-dishes (aka lenses and other accessories).
California’s Pacific Coast runs eight hundred and forty miles. It reaches from Mexico to Oregon, encompassing over four hundred beaches and countless scenic views. I recently explored one of the best-known sections of it, equipped with a Leica M240 and three prime lenses. Here are some shots of California’s Central Coast, and the picturesque town of Carmel, captured with this classic kit.
Do you typically activate your camera’s autofocus by half-depressing the shutter release? If so, you are not alone. This is the most common method of using cameras in autofocus mode. And as we know, when focus is achieved and locked, fully pressing the shutter release takes the picture. Simple right? But, there is an alternative way to use autofocus, quite independently of the shutter-release button. It even offers a few advantages. It is called back-button focus.
