From Henri Cartier-Bresson to Annie Leibovitz, just what is it about a Leica (in particular the Leica M6) that get’s everyone so excited?
Many of the 20th century’s most iconic images we know and love today were shot on a Leica. I don’t know a single film photographer who either doesn’t own a Leica or desperately wants to own one. Personally, I’m not a HUGE fan myself. Don’t get me wrong, I think they are absolutely superb cameras, beautiful and frankly if someone gave me one I would gladly take it. Unfortunately, I just struggle to find focus with a rangefinder (I wear glasses, that might be why I don’t know). But trust me when I say, I am definitely the exception when it comes to owning a Leica.
But what is it exactly that makes them so special, I mean besides being superb cameras. Is it just that, the beautiful mechanical design and craftsmanship? Is it the glass, the image quality? Or is it the status that comes with proudly owning a Leica? Whatever it is, there seems to be something very special about owning a Leica, and specifically the ever popular Leica M6. Let’s join film photographer Ian Wong from the Digital Darkroom as he explores just what makes the Leica so special. Let’s take a look…
As always we would love to hear from you, do you own a Leica? What makes it special to you? Let us know in the comment section below!
If you’d like to keep up with more from Ian be sure to head on over to his YouTube channel. Alternatively, you can also follow along on Facebook, Instagram or support him via Patreon.
