Why Leica (lens)?

[Mean Panda]

You probably have different reasons to own Leica Lens. For me, one of the joys of using Leica is finding out what can be achieved with it. I always look for the best optics in term of sharpness and contrast from leica. I know people have different views about what the "best" is. I think it will be interesting to see why others fall in love with Leica optic.
Welcome any comments and opinion about what you like about your Leica lens besides my poll options.

 

[Anupam]

I had to vote 'other' - I simply got a Summicron because it suited my needs - i.e. a good enough lens at a good enough price used.

 

[mfunnell]

Mostly "other reasons". My Elmar 50 for its good performance and being collapsible. My Summilux 75 because the focal length and wide maximum aperture suit a certain type of photo I like to take. But also "classic look". I'm not sure the 'lux look is classic but I like it a lot.

...Mike

 

[cmogi10]

I have not found a rangefinder lens that looks like my 75/1.4/.
Many other focal length choices are not leica glass, in fact most of it is Zeiss.
The 21/2.8, 35/2 and 50/1.5 are all phenomenal unique lenses that never cease to impress me. The only other piece of Leica glass I own is the 50/2.0 because I think it's the perfect complement to the Zeiss Sonnar.

 

[erikhaugsby]

I want a lens that I know won't let me down. Modern Photography had it right: the 50/2 Dual Range is absolutely perfect.

 

[myoptic3]

I love the signature look of the best Leica glass. I do not care for the cameras. Too hard to use quickly, too precious for me to sling around. If I can figure a way to use the Leitz glass on a SLR and still retain focus and aperture coupling I will be very happy indeed.

 

[Nikon Bob]

I voted other reasons. They were simply the lenses that came with or were available with the cameras that I bought. They work OK but then so do most of the other brands I have.

Bob

 

[Joe]

My grandpa left me his leica along with a 35 'lux, a 50 'lux, and 135 elmarit. When I saw the pictures from the first roll I was hooked. Plus Leicas are so fun to use.

That being said, the 55/1.8 Super Takumar that I got on ebay for $16 is awfully sharp. I find it ironic that a new Holga costs more.

 

[nzhang]

Another reason is small size of 35mm leica lenses.

 

[cmogi10]

this is why my Leica glass is for me..

 

[Pablito]

this is why my Leica glass is for me..

Because you like to take photos of tough guys?

 

[cmogi10]

 

[borismach]

I can't decide on my vote. There are numerous reasons make me choosing Leica system, including their lenses. The most critical points make Leica my favorite are:- great lens quality, robust construction, light weight, simple operation....
However, I think diferent people has different reasons
cheerz
bm

 

[Nh3]

This picture is soft and the contrast is too strong for a portrait. You can't see her eye or even its outline, there is just a black hole - and the detail on her hair is totally soft. Not to mention awkward shadow under her nose - a sign of harsh top light.

I don't think this picture is a justification of spending money on a Leica lens.

Sorry dude, but that's my honest opinion.

 

[visiondr]

If you like to shoot wide open and you want the very best, there's no comparison. Leica lenses have been designed to perform wide open, not at some aperture several stops down. The widest opening on a Leica lens is always usable.

 

[Gabriel M.A.]

Because you like to take photos of tough guys?

How do you know he's tough? Maybe he's a cuddly bear. Maybe it's an actor...maybe...

 

[Pablito]

How do you know he's tough? Maybe he's a cuddly bear. Maybe it's an actor...maybe...

You are quite right, Don Gabriel, the possibilities are endless thanks to Leica lenses....

 

[Gabriel M.A.]

You are quite right, Don Gabriel, the possibilities are endless thanks to Leica lenses....

Not fair to the Canikon lenses. I'm sure the possibilities would be just as endless with those.

 

[Nh3]

You guys are living in your Leica love ivory towers. FYI some of the $100 kit lenses perform wonderfully. The technology behind designing lenses have come a long way.

 

[Gabriel M.A.]

You guys are living in your Leica love ivory towers. FYI some of the $100 kit lenses perform wonderfully. The technology behind designing lenses have come a long way.

Your insight is cunningly transparent. Tell me more.