Professional review of M9 Monochrome

BobYIL

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Ming Thein is a professional photographer located in Malaysia. He recently has started reviewing the new M9M with the Apo-Summicron Asph.

The first part of the review is below. The second part will cover the new Apo-Summicron and finally the third part will deal with the resolution of the Monochrome.

This first part is especially important for the quality of the B&W pictures by this new camera. Enjoy:

http://blog.mingthein.com/2012/05/23/leica-m-monochrom/
 
FTA: "The M-Monochrom (MM from here onwards) is essentially the same camera as the M9-P, but with the bayer filter covering the sensor removed, and a rejigged processing algorithm."

So, theoretically, one could send their M9 to Solms to be converted to an M9 Monochrom?
 
At least this guy knows how to take good photos... I'd be interested to see examples of this highlight blowout phenomenon...
 
At least this guy knows how to take good photos... I'd be interested to see examples of this highlight blowout phenomenon...

Indeed. That was the first thing that came to my mind, he actually is a good photographer. I'm always more inclined to believe them more.
 
Very good review with lot's of differences compared to the normal M9. What I didn't understand is the point in "seeing differently in luminance". That's a problem that a trained bw film shooter shouldn't have, right? Or is there a difference in seeing for the MM or seeing for bw film?
 
. . . What I didn't understand is the point in "seeing differently in luminance". That's a problem that a trained bw film shooter shouldn't have, right? Or is there a difference in seeing for the MM or seeing for bw film?

You're right - it wouldn't be a problem. But that doesn't apply to most of the audience he is writing for. From what he says, even he has trouble going back and forth from color to b/w work until he reacclimatizes himself to each.
 
Good photographer, and nice representative images... Impressive. They are distinct to my eye. But I'm not actually sure if I like this look. Can't put my finger on it. But kudos to Leica for putting out such a camera.
 
Interesting.
Against the current, I find the images underwhelming and ordinary.
Not bad technically at all, but nothing special either.

Usually you guys are a tougher crowd. :D
 
Very nicely done simply review. To the point without lot of technobabble. Now Looking forward to giving this camera a try.
 
Good photographer, and nice representative images... Impressive. They are distinct to my eye. But I'm not actually sure if I like this look. Can't put my finger on it. But kudos to Leica for putting out such a camera.

I'm in agreement there. Apart from the last image "Meaningless Graffiti" which I like the look of the other images seem to lack any... character?... I don't know what it is. maybe they all just look too sharp!

But that aside, it's a well written review. I enjoyed reading his thoughts on the camera.
 
Great review -- thanks for the link. My initial skepticism about the M9M (MM?) is fading. I'm wondering if I should start saving up my pennies... ;)
 
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