james3shin wrote:
Hi everyone,
I've recently caught the manual focus bug and I'm considering a Leica M body. Could you guys provide any things you don't like about the rangefinder experience? For reference, I'm currently shooting with adapted lenses to Sony alpha bodies.
There really isn't anything I don't like about the RF experience when the RF is properly calibrated. It's faster then other methods of manual focusing, and a joy to use. You do need to know it's usefulness though.
Ideally 35/50/75 are the best focal lengths to use. For two reasons. 1) easier to focus those lengths 2) frame lines are in a good spot for predicting moments. As in, you can see outside the frame nicely with those lengths.
Accuracy of the RF frames vary based on distance to subject.
Flare in the RF window can sometimes be an issue. Sometimes you just get blinded by then sun, and can't see/do anything.
An uncalibrated RF will give you poor results, and will be frustrating. It's not often the RF or lenses fall out of alignment, but it does happen. Modern RF cameras (M240 w/live view) is an easy tool for assessing accuracy.
You can use lenses wider then 28mm, but you will be framing wildly. Unless you use EVF mode which defeats the purpose of an RF.
The best piece of advice I can give.. Don't give up so quickly. Use it consistently for a 2 month period. If you're not hooked, you're just not an RF kinda guy. Sell it, try to recoup any losses.