Well, this happened so quickly. Before Leica M10, I never thought I would own multiple Leica systems. Not only they are pricy but also one ‘M’ should suffice. However, when I needed 28mm lens, I thought of Leica Q which is in fact cheaper than Leica M 28mm lens. Then recently I wanted to experience analog film camera so much. So I bought Leica M7.
I was curious about digital Monochrome, then I realized that you can’t really simulate analog film with image post processing with digital output. So I decided I would go for black and white film. My first black and white film was Kentmere ISO 400. It was good. But I felt too much green in the black and white while I found that TMAX produces high contrast deep dark black.
Like I expected, it produced high contrast clear image. Even with ISO 400, I don’t feel much grain. Also it had great dynamic range. So I was able to capture both bright and dark area equally good.
I always wanted to capture snow scene with black and white film. Here it is. Just the way I expected. My dream became true. Of course, I wouldn’t notice if I was asked to tell which photos are from film vs digital black and white converted version. But no matter what others would say, I love this film photo a lot!
when it comes to film photos, I like it even better with a color negative film especially Kodak Portra 400 film!
Not only Korak Portra has rich color but also ISO 400 produces enough grain to tell me this is indeed film output.
I bought more films today. It’s definitely pricy. Kodak Portra 400 costs $10 per unit, and if you need to develop it in high-resolution, you need to pay $9 more. So 36 photos will cost you around $20 with a film. On top of that, I need to spend more time in visiting a photo development shop or purchasing a film weekly or so. I am not sure why I fell in love with this slow yet pricy analog Leica M system, but it sure gives me more energy and inspiration for my photography work!
I sure like my digital Leica M10, but I would take maybe 50% of my photos with Leica M7. Let’s see which version makes more precious memories for my life!
Analog film vs Digital what would be your choice?
Check out this link if you are interested in Leica M10 digital Leica M system.
I like all your photos, but I prefer color photography. Your color photos are beautiful. They speak for themselves. Thank you for sharing this post.
Thank you Steve for your feedback. I take more color photos than B&W but I like them both. Have a wonderful day.
Do you still have these cameras in 2021? I have the M10 sine 2018, and I’m just looking to do the same thing and add the M7 to my arsenal. Andy advice?
Yes and no. I sold M7 and bought M6 last year. The main reason for this decision is because I stopped using aperture priority mode for shooting film. I typically shoot 1 stop overexposed for a film. But I still keep Leica M10. I would keep it for good. No desire to upgrade it in the future as I am quite happy with what M10 offers.
Thank You, that answers it for me. After lusting after the M7, I’ve decided on the M6 after doing the research on the M6 TTL. The fact that I get a camera that can run without batteries (if needed), plus that the shutter dial is in the same direction as the M10 means I don’t lose familiarity. I like the M7 but I feel that I have enough electronics in the M6, without limitations. The M7 is an M10 that shoots film (I’m overstating obviously, but you know what I mean). I think M6TTL/M10 are best of both worlds for me too.
Thanks a mil for the advice/feedback, now just need to find an ‘affordable’ one 😀. If only I had the knowledge a few years back.
“The M7 is an M10 that shoots film (I’m overstating obviously, but you know what I mean). ” I couldn’t agree with you more. However, due to the nature of film exposure, you often need to overexpose. You will end up using manual mode more than A mode as M7’s exposure compensation is somewhat incorrect.
I am sure M6 will not let you know. Have a wonderful M6 user experience in advance!
http://blog.naver.com/PostThumbnailList.nhn?blogId=akinterv&from=postList&categoryNo=13
I also run a Korean blog. You can look up many photos taken by Leica M6 if you search on “Leica M6”.