Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2007/04/30
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]This past week my B&W 093 IR filter arrived from B&H. And I had some M8, high IR sensitivity, fun. <http://www.imagist.com/paw_07> I also pulled out the old Visoflex III. Attached it to the M8. Attached the 50 lux asph and was blown away by the quality of this lens in macro mode. These macros, additional IR photographs, and some none IR for comparison can be seen in the "flash" slide show at: <http://imagist.com/paw_07/07_wk_17/index.html> Along this M8 journey: I know that many folks think the IR sensitivity of the M8 is some sort of Leica misstep. But I'm here to tell you that using that sensitivity with an IR filter is a real plus to me and a kick to boot. The range finder allows for proper framing (try that with an SLR and a 93 filter). The idea that I'm carrying a Leica M, my amazing M lenses and loaded with color (ASA 160 - 2500), black and white (ASA 160 - 2500), and infrared which can be hand held - well it actually makes me a bit light headed. And I also know that some folks think the Visoflex was a Leica joke in an SLR world. But until you pull this 1964 device out of the closet and mount it on your 2007 M8, you simply haven't fully experienced the Leica M system. Some of you who've mounted your vintage lenses on your M8's may know what I'm say'n here. Think: It is light, small and allows one to do wonderful macro photography with modern lenses. Add to that the fact that the soft mirror (lock) up occurs with the same motion as releasing the shutter. Again, I'm here to tell you that this is a dream machine - all the stuff ever made for the M's continues to work BEAUTIFULLY with the M8 (ok I know the dual range cron is a no-go and maybe a couple others). I've had the pleasure to experience Leicas from M2 (my first in 1964) through (missed the M7) M8; and declare here and now - Leica remains the finest, small, precision, range finder camera (now digital) system available. The 20D and 5D have rarely seen the light of day since the M8 arrived. Kudos to Leica. Regards, George Lottermoser george@imagist.com