Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1996/06/03
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]>I dont still possess a Leica M6 and i have some questions about this mythical >camera : Olivier: If you don't NEED an M Leica - i.e. if you have not tried every other conceivable combination of cameras and lenses, and found them somehow wanting - then you certainly should not consider spending such a breathtaking amount of money. As you note, the M6 has no TTL flash metering, no exposure automation, a very limited selection of lens focal lengths, parallax problems especially at close distances, and a number of other drawbacks. BUT... take it from someone who HAS tried every other conceivable combination etc.: if you NEED a Leica, there is no substitute. I shoot only B&W photographs; I never use a flash; I photograph people, often in motion, often indoors and/or in poor light, and always in unposed situations; I value the particular optical characteristics of the one lens I use most often. It has taken me almost five years of experimentation to conclude that the most effective tool for taking such photographs is an M Leica; and almost as long to save up, both financially and psychologically, for an M6 to replace my meterless M4. Along with all the drawbacks you cite, the M Leica also has unique advantages: it is almost silent; it is mechanically simple and therefore rugged and durable; it is compact and extremely easy to handle; most importantly, it can be made to produce results which cannot be duplicated with other equipment. And lots more. So don't assume, please, that because an M6 does not meet YOUR needs, it is therefore useless and/or overpriced. It is the only solution to certain other needs, and as such worth the price. -- Nick ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Nicholas Hartmann hartmann@interaccess.com P.O. Box 1005 (708) 524-1191 Oak Park, IL 60304 USA fax (708) 524-1355 Technical and scientific translator: German, French, Italian -> English ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++