[Leica] M8 bought with 1,2,3

[jshul at comcast.net (Jim Shulman)]

An excellent point.  Now that Leica M cameras have entered the digital age,
it's probably time to evaluate them in terms of computers and other
electronic devices--not lifetime investment in great pictures.

What is the expected lifespan of the camera?  Probably at least five years.
After that time it will become either technologically obsolete, or develop
electronic quirks (like my ageing computer)that will render it unsuitable
for reliable work.

Will it take pictures that would be difficult/impossible to get with a
different digital camera?  Probably yes, since the basic virtues of the M
camera are intact.  No clacking mirror, constant view of subject.

Do I shoot enough to justify the expense of $1000+ per year to amortize
camera investment?  Personally, no--but most professionals could amortize
the cost, particularly with film savings.

One of the old justifications for a Leica was that it was built to last a
lifetime, with proper care.  Leica also supported cameras with parts and
service well past any reasonable period--decades, in many cases.  And an old
model could often be upgraded to the latest features (at least in the
screwmount era.)

Now it's a different game.  A digital M is still a unique and (from all
accounts) incredible instrument, but the new economics of photography mean
that we can't justify a purchase as a lifetime purchase (unless, of course,
we anticipate a vastly truncated shooting career.)

And since I fully expect to see Ted and Tom posting great images into the
2020s, there's no excuse for any of us!

Best,
Jim Shulman
Bryn Mawr, PA


PS. A thought: can you imagine any of Kyle's goth models in 2020?  Happy
Halloween!!!