RexGig0
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 p.3 #7 · p.3 #7 · "Fun" rangefinder experience - X-Pro vs (older) Leica. | |
Some personal* thoughts:
I was interested in rangefinders, as found in optical instruments other than cameras, before I was aware that Leica cameras used rangefinders to achieve focus. So, when I learned that I could enjoy playing with a rangefinder, while also capturing images, an interest in rangefinder cameras was born. This was long before I had a Leica M budget.
Images captured with specific Leica 50mm lenses, showing “character,” captured my attention, before I had developed a specific interest in Leica cameras. Eventually, I narrowed my priorities to acquire a Summilux-M 50mm ASPH. If I remember correctly, the M9 was extant, when I was considering the various 50mm M lenses. (Pre-M Type 240.) I still did not yet have a Leica M budget.
I did try X100-series cameras, at a large local camera store. The concept was interesting, but, the execution was, well, not fun. My Nikon Coolpix A could do what the X100 could do, or, close enough. The Fuji X Pro cameras were more my cup of tea, but I did not buy.
When a modest post-retirement financial windfall enabled me to entertain the idea of finally adding a Nikon “exotic super telephoto” lens, I was blessed to find a pristine, well-preserved, pre-owned Summilux-M 50mm ASPH, at a nearby Leica dealer. I was blessed to be able to try this lens, on pre-owned and demonstrator M9 and M Type 240 cameras, during several visits, while being coached by patient employees. I made my buying decision before I knew which camera I would be using as a rear dust cover for this lens. I was aware that at least one excellent M-to-Fuji X adapter existed, but, was leaning toward acquiring a new or pre-owned Type 240.
The Leica M, with a rangefinder, was SO MUCH MORE FUN than any Fuji.
The M10 had been introduced, but, more than a year had passed, with M10 cameras still being a waiting-list proposition, during my first visits to try that pre-owned Summilux. Then, on the day I decided to buy the Summilux, it just so happened that the Leica dealer had just been able to finish fulfilling the waiting list, with two M10 cameras available, in stock, that day. The Summilux, and a new M10, would cost less than any of the big telephoto lenses I had been considering, plus, I had injured my left shoulder, so, would not be using a big-heavy telephoto lens, anytime soon, anyway. I accepted the opportunity to test my Summilux on a new M10. It did not take long for me to decide to scuttle the big telephoto idea.
Almost six years later, my Summilux-M 50mm APSH remains my favorite M lens. My M10 remains the camera I am most likely to take with me. My left shoulder healed, completely, but, my aging back and knees are glad that I did not buy a 600mm f/4 or 400mm f/2.8 telephoto lens. My Nikon D5 does see frequent use, but, my wife and are more likely to be chasing wee beasties at very close range. (A Texas Master Naturalist, she has gravitated toward native plants, fungi, insects, amphibians, reptiles, and other often-overlooked beasties.)
I still do not want a Fuji.
*None of this may apply to any other person. My way is not “the” way.
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