[Leica] digital transformation

[jbcollier at shaw.ca (John Collier)]

For me two things matter: the quality of the output and the user 
interface. I use M cameras because they suit the way I see period. I am 
only loyal to Leica in that they are the only ones providing what I 
need. 99% of my output is projected slide and projected digital is just 
not there yet quality wise. It will get there eventually and, if Leica 
comes out with a M digital, I will seriously weigh the options. For one 
thing present digital projectors, even with their relatively poor 
quality output, are extremely expensive to buy and maintain. Sure film 
and processing are expensive but have you priced out replacement bulbs 
for digital projectors?!!

John Collier

On 27-Apr-05, at 8:35 PM, Don Dory wrote:

> In the almost five years I have been participating on the LUG, there 
> has
> been a rather dramatic shift in conversation.  When I first started
> paying attention, this was definitely a gear head discussion, we were
> very interested in Marc's book on LTM lenses, long treatises on small
> differences in the 50's, scotch religious wars, Tilley hats and more.
>
> In the last year the transformation to primarily digital has been
> profound; actual Leica discussion has dropped to a very minor part.
> Even film based discussion is a minority.
>
> I understand that for many, the tool does not matter.  Nathan, B.D.,
> Ted, Tina, Sonny, and many others have made the transition to digital 
> an
> easy move.  Strangely enough, for me, the tool does matter: I get along
> fine with a variety of cameras and formats but an M or a SL becomes an
> extension of my eye more so than any other photographic tool.  While I
> respect the need of the professional to streamline workflow, speed up
> the billing process, or just plain know they have the shot in the bag, 
> I
> find great joy in going over new negatives or slides; love the
> serendipity when the combination of chemistry and accident create
> wonderful images far more that looking at an LCD.
>
> So I guess what I am really wondering is, how many of us on the list 
> are
> somewhat nostalgic for film, or have genuinely embraced the digital
> revolution?
>
> Don