Dilemma

[Vic]

None of the camera systems that you mentioned have a backup body. If I were going to a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, I would consider having gear that includes a backup body. You can always leave it in the hotel safe, or carry it in a backpack, it's not that heavy.

If you figure the cost of the holiday, a backup Leica body is not that much. You can always sell it when you return, and consider the minimal loss on the sale to be insurance costs of your fabulous holiday photographs.

Also, with Leica, having two bodies and two lenses presents the minimal risk, and maximum speed when taking pictures. No lens changing in dodgy areas (such as over a dirt road, a dusty environment, or a muddy field) is involved, therefore, no risk of dropping a lens.

Just a thought, but best wishes for your holiday!

 

[Nigel Meaby]

Good point Vic. The first time I went to India with two Leica's, through no fault of my own both had broken down within the first few weeks! The M4 which had been cla'd before leaving had the shutter curtain come un-glued! and then the minilux developed the well documented shutter problem! Fortunately for me I was able to buy an M6 from Ffordes and get it brought out by a friends' Father who was coming out to visit. If I had been there just for three weeks I would have been screwed! So even having the D-lux as a back-up is better than nothing but an inexpensive M2 would be a good back-up if taking the M4-P.

 

[johannielscom]

Why not let your girlfriend carry a Leica too then, if she's a photographer!? Surely she must have some interest in that M4-P of yours, no chance to swing her over to film as well🙄?

Bringing the D300 really isn't a good idea, IMHO...

 

[menos]

Got any Nikon F lenses with aperture rings?
Buy a neat cheap little Nikon FM/ FM2/ FM2n and take this with the D300 - screw the Leica ;-)

The used FM will cost you less, than you might carry on film with you ;-)

You got then a manual (and nice) little camera for film and the D300 for your girl friend.

 

[Leigh Youdale]

An M-mount backup body is a good idea. Maybe a second hand Bessa R2. But most times you'll find that one body and a couple of lenses, maybe a 50 and a 28, is all you'll really need to carry. Plus the D-Lux. I doubt you'll really want to be carrying two bodies and multiple lenses - especially if the mounts are incompatible and you start doubling up on lenses. Stay light.
The backup body can stay safe somewhere - chances are you won't need it but it's good 'insurance'.

 

[Wcarpenter]

I just got back from a two weeks trip to Spain and Morocco, so I thought I'd share my camera experience. In preparation for the trip (and for my birthday) I got an M6 and a 35mm Summarit and was expecting to use it in conjunction with my various other cameras. At the last minute I decided to take only my M6 and my one lens and leave everything else photographic at home. I can't tell you how liberating it was. No longer was there any thought behind the gear and instead, all the thought went into the enjoyment of the place and the creation of my images. It was really wonderful to only have one focal length and one body.

So, my recommendation: Pick one camera and leave the rest. I think you'll find that both your pictures and your trip turn out better. Have fun!

 

[semilog]

Why have an M series if you are not going to use it?!

Precisely. Use it, or send it to me 😉.