[Leica] R8 for a photo-journalist?

[Jay Coleman <jcoleman@interport.net>]

Thomas:

Regarding your questions about the R8 and R lenses as compared to Nikon:
The glass is better.  Your experience with yourM6 and 35 has probably
shown you what Leica lenses can do.  The R lenses are just as good.  The
R8 body is a matter of taste.  I have one and love it; I have had no
problems with it for three years (but I did have a metering problem with
my first R8, replaced under Passport).  Ted Grant, on this list, who is
a professional photojournalist, also loves the R8 (I am not a
professional photojournalist).  If you use the reflex for macro work
there is no better macro lens than the 100 APO Macro for the R.  The
70-180 is also great.  Yes, they are all expensive.  If you can, borrow
one, or rent one, and shoot a few rolls to see how you like it.

If you have any more specific questions, I would be happy to try to
answer them.  I have been using Leica R for six years and have used the
SL, R5, R6, R7 and R8, 19/2.8 (old style), 21/4, 24/2.8, 28/2.8 (old
style), 35/2, 50/2 (old and new), 60/2.8, 80/1.4, 90/2, 90/2.8, 100/2.8
APO, 180/3.4 APO, 70-180 APO.  I currently own an SL, R8, 35/2, 50/2
(old style), 100/2.8 APO and 180/3.4 APO.  I switched from Nikon to see
if the glass was better.  It is.

Regards,

Jay Coleman