What are the differences between....

[steve garza]

the M2 and M3? Aside from the VF and framecounter that is. I seem to think that the M2 body is more svelte. Although I'm not sure where I picked up that idea.

 

[Graham Line]

Functionally speaking, that's it. They were contemporaries, so they're pretty much identical. Cameraquest has a good rundown in its Classic Camera Profiles.

 

[jcee]

I seem to think that the M2 body is more svelte.

I think so, too. I think the M3 is more rigid looking, like a nicely-built man's body, while the M2 is sleek and elegant like a woman's body. I don't know why.

 

[xayraa33]

the M2 body lines were echoed in the later M models ,save for the M5.

 

[steve garza]

Roland,
what is your experience in shooting the M2 in contrasty, backlit scenes? i.e., performers on stage? I'm considering one for my 35mm lens.

 

[jaapv]

Why should the camera make any difference in that case? Lens and lightmeter seem more important to me. If you are considering using it with a 35 mm lens, you really don't have a choice. The M3 has no 35 mm framelines....

 

[steve garza]

Thanks....

Thanks....

Like Jaap said, it will work fine. If you want a brass camera with 35mm framelines, there are no options.
The next comparable up is the M4.

The M2 VF is very good, I never had a flare issue with it (I have an old M6 classic and have to be careful when shooting
against the sun with this).

The M3 has a different color RF (mine is from 65), gold on blue, and an almost 1:1 VF, which is a bit nicer.
But you can not go wrong with an M2 unless you want to use 28mm at some point. Then you need an M4-P or M6 (or up).

Which M* is best for you is a very personal decision. Best would be to go to a store and hold some in your hand.

If I would go through the last two years again, I would choose the lenses first and then a body that fits. Would end up being cheaper ...

Roland.

I was worried about the M2's VF since I like to shoot in clubs with performers. I have a M6 .85 which I plan to pair at some point with a 75mm lens.

 

[steve garza]

There is a choice......

There is a choice......

Why should the camera make any difference in that case? Lens and lightmeter seem more important to me. If you are considering using it with a 35 mm lens, you really don't have a choice. The M3 has no 35 mm framelines....

M6TTL or MP w/ .58. I understand the 35mm frameline appears singly.