Ron (Netherlands) said:
;. . . They make you think there is a 'quality plateau', nothing wrong with that in itself - it is good for Leica (and maybe Nikon like you say), and nothing wrong by thinking you will make better pictures with that...but you know it is only yourself thinking that . . . .
No, there IS a quality plateau. No-one is making me think that: anyone of average intelligence (or less) can work that our for himself/herself. How can it be otherwise? The only alternative is that all cameras are equally versatile and deliver equal quality, which is patently nonsense.
Up to the quality plateau --which varies with the photographer, the subject matter, and the kind of picture that is wanted -- a better camera will get you better pictures. Beyond that level it won't matter: all that matters is the photographer's skill.
Well, OK, there's one exception. If you want poor sharpness, vignetting, light leaks, the whole Holga/Diana experience, some cameras may be too good -- though arguably, that's just redefining 'quality'.
I'm damn sure I get better pictures of more things under more kinds of different light with my MP than I would with (let's say) an Ilford Sporti 4. Could I get equally good pics with other cameras? Yes, some. Indeed, better with others, if I go to medium or large format. Could I get them as easily with (say) my Exakta Varex IIa? Possibly, but certainly not as easily -- and like many people, I find I can hold just about any RF/DV camera steadier than an SLR.
I see that your signature lists "Leica: Urleica, IIa synch conversion, M2, M6 TTL Millenium, M8.2". Why? If they all take equally good pictures, and no better than a Holga, why don't you just stick with a Holga? Or better still, a Lubitel (cheaper)?
Cheers,
R.