sgy1962
Well-known
I would go with one of the models with a built in meter -- M6 or MP. The build in meter would make life a bit easier and still give you a very rugged machine, in terms of durability. I would stay away from the M7, because the extra electronics , in my mind, just are more potential problems. That's why I got into Leica rangefinders in the first placy -- to get away from all those electronics. It would also be very different from your digital outfit.
As far as lenses, I would start with a 35mm or 50mm and shoot a bunch of file for awhile. After a few months you'll know if you want to go smaller or larger, or whether you need anything. One lense may be sufficient.
As far as optics at the f/2 speed, the Zeiss lenses can't be beat for value. But if you want faster lenses, then you'll probably have to opt for the current Leica models, all of which come with big price tags.
As far as lenses, I would start with a 35mm or 50mm and shoot a bunch of file for awhile. After a few months you'll know if you want to go smaller or larger, or whether you need anything. One lense may be sufficient.
As far as optics at the f/2 speed, the Zeiss lenses can't be beat for value. But if you want faster lenses, then you'll probably have to opt for the current Leica models, all of which come with big price tags.
Steve Bellayr
Veteran
Sorry...you can't go from digital D40 to a Leica easily. I'd recommend that you work your way up. First, you should experience film preferably with a rangefinder. Then you need to decide meter or no meter. The difference between a Nikon D40 and a Leica M4 is major. There are any number of quality rangefinders available or on the net for under a $100. And, they'll most likely have meters. Then you will need to decide on the meter issue. Also, there are any number of good older Canons & Nikon rangefinders (meterless) that come up with excellent lenses. When you go outside the 50mm lenses on Leicas in the wide angle get very pricey. Luckily you can get CV new lenses. With that much money invested you should handle some of the cameras to see which fits you better.
javimm
Established
I was in the same situation. Having shot film and went digital when it became affordable. Now I have a 350D, and being more or less happy with it, I've bought a M6. Haven't shot any film yet with it, as I've just received a lens, and need an adapter The look I'm getting with the 350D is not convincing me. Of course it can be fixed in Photoshop, but I really dislike spending hours moving bars, and processing tons of files. I know I'll shoot less with film, but better. I know, because I did it before.
I plan to use the M6 and do it all myself.
If you need a meter in your camera, M5, M6, M7 or MP. I went with the M6 classic, as it is relative new (16 years-old ... mmm makes me think what a 16 yo digicam will be worth) and no as expensive as the MP, the one I like. I know that the M6 will never be obsolete. And the limit is me, not the CMOS/CCD. The M6 is a great camera. Superb feeling and look.
Enjoy. I'm really enjoying my own trip in the film world, and it hasn't even started yet
I plan to use the M6 and do it all myself.
If you need a meter in your camera, M5, M6, M7 or MP. I went with the M6 classic, as it is relative new (16 years-old ... mmm makes me think what a 16 yo digicam will be worth) and no as expensive as the MP, the one I like. I know that the M6 will never be obsolete. And the limit is me, not the CMOS/CCD. The M6 is a great camera. Superb feeling and look.
Enjoy. I'm really enjoying my own trip in the film world, and it hasn't even started yet