Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2011/08/24
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Geoff Hopkinson <hopsternew at gmail.com> wrote: > ... > For landscape photography of course the S2 could be superb but the M9 is > showing strengths there too with some advantages in portability for > example. > Ask Tina or Paul Roark or he who has not yet come out there!. ... Just looking at camera systems as practical instruments to accomplish some set of photographic goals, the M9 appears to do so, and for the least weight and work. Although I am probably guilty of buying more equipment than I need, if I just look at the tools I actually use, the M mount camera system is not overpriced relative to what it can do. The M9 allows me to print up to 22x28 inch single frame display images that meet my sharpness standards (about 3 lp/mm is the goal) and other quality goals. The M9 system simply wins the cost-benefit analysis for me and my type of photography, at least at the current time. The aspect of the S2 that I think would add the most capability to the M system for me is good through the lens viewing. For fast lenses, telephoto purposes, and whenever the limits of rangefinder focusing hits its limits, TTL viewing could be very useful. A second body as a backup would also be nice. I suspect now that the compact electronic viewfinder cameras, combined with M mount compatibility, are on the right track. Bottom line, I don't see the S2 as a route that will have much traction with people like me. I wish Leica well with it, but I suspect the M9 is a better platform and is and will remain a more profitable route. I will be very interested in Leica's development of electronic TTL bodies. But the M9 is and will probably remain a classic. Paul www.PaulRoark.com