Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/03/19
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Hi John: > Finally, are there any current or former Contax G users out there who would > care to comment on switching to Leica, or adding Leica to their "arsenal." About two years ago I also switched from a Contax G2 outfit to M6. I had been using (and still do for many photos) Nikon SLR's (mainly F100, and PRO quality, fast 1.4 and 2.8 AF-S lenses, etc.), but was looking for a smaller travel outfit that would also provide a high-quality experience (lenses and the general feeling of the body). I initially chose the Contax G2 since I was used to autofocus, autoexposure, autowind, etc. I bought everything new (G2, 90mm, 45mm, flash, etc.) and used it for about two months. I had some real problems with the system: the autofocus delay, no DOF markings on the lenses, no focus visible in the viewfinder, the focus range window only shows meters - not feet, never sure what it was auto-focusing on, etc. But, it did take very nice photos. Anyway, after two months I decided to sell the whole package and buy into Leica without ever even holding one. I can tell you the lenses I own are equal or better (35/1.4, 50/1.4, 90/2) to the Contax lenses. I also sometimes use a Cosina/Voit 25/4 (pretty good lens). I love the quality feeling of holding and shooting with the M6. The M6 outfit is my normal travel camera, and/or low-light camera, and when I just feel like being creative or in full control. I still use the Nikon F100 and fast autofocus lenses when chasing my 3-year-old, or want 5 frames-per-second, or need lenses longer than 90mm, or zoom, or am just lazy and want auto-everything, etc. I think most users of the Contax G system would find Leica more than an acceptable "upgrade". I hope this helps. Mike Rivera