Zhao Zhenguo, Author at i35mm

When I met you

Life was a little worried that I might get bored, so I met the camera, and them in the camera, and you in front of the screen.

This lovely Leica lens is often overlooked, but it’s definitely worth a second look! The first-generation Leica Elmarit 28mm f2.8 was a real favorite among collectors and photographers thanks to its stylish design, solid construction, and limited production run. More photographers are recommending the current version of the Leica Elmarit 28mm ASPH because of its compact size, which is great! That’s why the third generation is rarely recommended, and why it’s so reasonably priced. In fact, the third generation still has that Leica style and excellent optical performance, which is fantastic!

I absolutely love using this lens for close-up street photography! I’m really happy with how well this lens performs up close, with such great sharpness! I love the high color contrast! It makes me think it was designed for digital cameras. Oh, you know what? It is a lens from 1980!

I just love the v3 version! It’s so much better than the ASPH version. The colors in v3 are so warm and in line with that classic Leica look we all know and love. Another great thing about the v3 is that it has a better depth of field, which makes it really easy to take clear photos, especially up close! I think this is because the classic Leica bokeh blur is a lovely, gradual pattern from clear to blurry. The ASPH version doesn’t have this gradual blurring process, which is a shame! So, if you take a picture with the ASPH version at close range (about one meter), it’ll be a little blurry because the camera makes a slight mistake.

If there’s one thing to watch out for with the V3, it’s that it’s on the larger side, especially with the lens hood attached. The V3 is a little more visible in street shots than the ASPH version, which is a bit of a bummer. Overall, I’m absolutely thrilled with it! I think the V3 is probably the cheapest Leica lens with the best optical quality, which is pretty impressive!

I’ve always thought that good photos can be taken with any lens, and I’ve found that good weather and a good mood are often just as important as the lens you use! I’m in a great mood because the price of this lens is so reasonable!

The next photo was taken using the Leica M9 camera’s built-in JPEG standard mode.

Leica Elmarit 28mm f2.8 v3 + Leica m9 RAW converted

LEICA I Model C With Elmar 50mm 3.5

One day, I was seen by a colleague holding a Leica I camera, and he exclaimed, “Wow, this is an amazing camera!” It’s obvious that it belongs to a man with a story—and a fascinating one at that! The Leica I was the first mass-produced model by Leica, and it was a game-changer! The prototype was called the “O” model, and it’s now a highly sought-after collectible item! Leica later released two incredible replicas of the “O” model! However, the “O” model was never truly sold on the market, and the “I” model was the first Leica camera that was available for purchase. From 1925 to the present day, most of these cameras can still be used with just a little adjustment to the cloth shutter, which is truly miraculous!

Viewfinder

Leica I cameras all come with a small black-painted viewfinder slung over the shoulder, which is very beautiful. This viewfinder provides an approximate framing range and is perfect for getting a feel for the shot before you take it. It doesn’t assist with focusing, which still requires estimation, but it’s a great way to get started!

Black paint

The black paint on the Leica I cameras is hand-mixed to absolute perfection, and the finish is absolutely stunning, with a high gloss that is simply mesmerizing! With an affordable black-painted camera like this, I might just be able to balance out my desire for a black-painted M3!

Playing with Leica

Those who frequently buy new cameras have become “fallen” into just taking pictures, haha! Those who play with old cameras are the ones who truly appreciate them. This camera is so small, exquisite, simple, and clean that it’s hard to put down once you hold it. I like to pair it with the Elmar 35 3.5 lens in black, it looks absolutely beautiful. Blind shooting with a 3.5 aperture is no problem at all, with no pressure.

Leica I (model A)

The Leica I camera was produced in a number of versions, which can be broadly classified into three types: Type A, Type B, and Type C. The “I” (Type A) model was first released in 1925, and its main feature was a fixed metal strip on the front of the body that was used to lock the lens focusing lever. This model was subsequently subdivided into versions equipped with an Anastigmat lens, an Elmax lens, a Hektor lens, or an Elmar lens. The “I” (Type B) model was released in 1926, and it was Leica’s sole camera with an in-lens shutter. It has a distinctive mushroom-like shape, which is highly sought after by collectors, although personally, I find it rather unappealing. The “I” (Type C) model was released in 1930 and was the inaugural Leica camera with a detachable lens. Initially, this camera was sold as a set with three lenses, and the body and lenses were individually calibrated and could not be used with other bodies or lenses. Consequently, the body and lens in a set were engraved with the same serial number, or the lens had the last three digits of the body’s serial number. Subsequently, Leica implemented a standardised production process, enabling the interchangeability of bodies and lenses. They also offered to calibrate early lenses to the standard type, which were marked with a “0” and the body mount had a “0” engraved at the 12 o’clock position.

SN Start	SN End	Product	Year	Batch
131	1000	Leica I (Anastigmat & Elmax 1st version)	1924	870
1001	2445	Leica I (Elmax, Elmar + Elmar Close-Focus)	1926	1445
2446	5433	Leica I (Elmar 2nd version + Elmar Close-Focus)	1926-1927	2988
5434	5700	Leica I (4 digit)	1928	267
6301	13100	Leica I (Elmar 4th version + Elmar Close-Focus)	1928	6800
13301	21478	Leica I (Elmar 6th version + Elmar Close-Focus)	1929	8178
21811	34550	Leica I (Elmar) 7th version from 31600	1928	12740
34803	34817	Leica I (Elmar + Luxus)	1929	15
34818	^60000	Leica I (Elmar 8-10th versions + Elmar Close-Focus + Hektor)	1930	25183
TOTAL	ASSIGNED	SERIAL NUMBERS	1925-1930	58,486

Compur Leica (model B)

SN Start	SN End	Product	Year	Batch
5701	6300	Compur Camera (dial-set)	1926-1929	600
13101	13300	Compur Camera	1929	200
13101	13300	Compur Camera (dial-set + rim-set)	1929	200
21479	21810	Compur Camera (rim-set)	1930	332
34451	34802	Compur Camera (rim-set)	1930	352
unknown	50572-	Compur Camera	1931-1941*	157*
TOTAL	ASSIGNED	SERIAL NUMBERS	1926-1941	1,651

Leica I (model C)

SN Start	SN End	Product	Year	Batch
34818	^ 60000	Leica I (nonstandard-mount)	1930	[25183]
^ 60001	60500	Leica I (nonstandard-mount)	1930	500
60500	71199	Leica I (standard-mount)	1931	10700
TOTAL	ASSIGNED	SERIAL NUMBERS	1930-1931	11,200

Leica CL Film Camera

The Leica M3 is a true legend in the history of photography. It’s not just the pinnacle of the Leica brand’s brilliant history — it’s an eternal classic in the hearts of countless photographers. The Leica CL, on the other hand, has done something really special. It’s broken new ground in the field of rangefinder cameras with its small and exquisite body. It’s become a bright pearl in the Leica family. If the CL can keep its special charm while making things even more precise and finely crafted, and giving it a more distinctive and unique personality, then it’ll be no surprise when it beats the Leica M6 and becomes the favourite of the new generation!

The Leica CL’s short focal length baseline design does have one slight drawback: it limits its perfect match with large aperture lenses to a certain extent. But don’t fret! This feature makes it a perfect match with lenses with apertures of f/2.8 and below. With these lenses, the CL really shines! It produces the finest image quality and deepest depth of field, making it perfect for photographers who want the best of both image quality and portability.

The Leica CL might have a few limitations, but that doesn’t take away from its value as a great camera! And there’s more! Its affordable price, excellent durability, compact size, and instantly recognizable small design combine to create an irresistible appeal. There’s something really special about holding the CL in your hand. It’s like holding the key to time! And each soft click of the shutter is a perfect tribute to classicism and innovation.

And then there’s the story about the relationship between the Leica CL and the M5, which is even more legendary! Word has it that the CL, with its one-of-a-kind charm, had a pretty big impact on the M5’s sales. In fact, it’s said that it led to the CL’s sad departure after three years of production.

For me personally, the Leica CL is undoubtedly my favorite. Compared to the slightly conservative design of the M5, the CL’s sleek and compact styling is more in line with my aesthetic. Whenever I pick it up, I can feel the unique flavor and ingenuity from Leica. Leica CL is not just a camera, it is an attitude towards life, a spiritual symbol of the relentless pursuit of beautiful things.

Leica CL is being made by Minolta of Japan. They’re a partner with excellent technology and craftsmanship, and they’re helping to keep the Leica CL a member of the Leica family in its purest form. From the very start, Leica has been involved in every detail of the CL’s design. They wanted to make sure that the camera not only looks elegant and classic, but also meets Leica’s high standards for performance and quality.

Every line, every button, and even the layout of the internal structure of the CL is the result of the efforts and wisdom of Leica’s wonderful designers. Together, they’ve created a camera that’s truly one of a kind, showcasing the unique Leica style we all know and love. And Minolta, as the manufacturer, makes sure that every part of the CL’s production process meets the quality standards set by Leica. They use their excellent manufacturing techniques and strict quality control system to make sure everything is just right!

So, even though the CL’s origin label reads “Minolta Japan,” it’s really Leica’s blood that flows in its veins! It’s a reflection of Leica’s persistent pursuit of the art of photography and relentless innovation. If you’re a photographer who loves Leica and wants a top-notch photographic experience, the CL is the perfect choice! You get to enjoy Leica’s iconic design while experiencing the amazing craftsmanship and quality from Japan.

It’s so lovely to see that even today, used Leica CLs are still going strong and remain a firm favourite among photography enthusiasts thanks to their incredible durability and stability. These lovely oldies but goodies seem to have been given a bit of a makeover by time! They’re still going strong and ready to be used in every shoot, showing amazing reliability.

It’s really impressive how well the Leica CL’s metering system holds up compared to other cameras from the same era. Many of them just don’t have the same staying power when it comes to their metering functions. This is thanks to Leica’s dedication to quality and precision in the design and manufacturing process, as well as the amazing craftsmanship contributed by Minolta as a manufacturing partner. Even today, when we pick up a used Leica CL and flick the dial, the familiar and precise metering indications still respond quickly and accurately. This is great for photographers because it provides a reliable reference for exposure, ensuring that the perfect moment of light is captured on every shot!

This amazing durability and stability is one of the main reasons why the Leica CL is so popular on the used market. It’s not just a camera, it’s a symbol of heritage and faith. Every photographer who owns it can feel the unique charm and craftsmanship from Leica.

Leica MP Black Paint Never Grow Old

I am in love with the black-painted version of this Leica MP, which is not just a photographic tool, but a work of art that transcends time and space. This deep black, as if it were the embodiment of night, is both mysterious and solemn. It is not just a choice of color, but an insistence and commitment to timeless quality. Underneath the black lacquer lies Leica’s relentless pursuit and respect for the art of photography, and every soft click of the shutter is a firm response to that commitment.

The rarity of Leica Black Lacquer lies in the fact that it is not available at will, but is limited to those special models with exclusive configurations. This limited availability and exclusivity makes every Leica MP Black Finish version a dream object in the minds of photography enthusiasts. Over time, the black finish will gradually fade, revealing the warm and textured brass color underneath. This naturally occurring “trace of age” not only doesn’t detract from the beauty of the camera, but adds a bit of unique flavor and a sense of storytelling, as if every scratch and mottle is a whisper of time telling the story of the experiences it has shared with its owner. It is as if each scratch and stain is a whisper of time, telling of the experiences it has shared with its owner.

The Leica MP, a classic that was first introduced in 1956, was originally designed as a professional camera for small-scale news reporting, but over time it gradually became a legend in the field of photographic art. Today’s new Leica MP continues this tradition, stable and reliable, without the need for batteries, its batteries are used only for metering; it also inherits the M6’s metering system, which gives the photographer precise exposure instructions so that every shot captures the most perfect moments of light and shadow.

The Leica MP is a firm favorite among professionals for so many reasons! Its excellent technical performance is just the start. It truly understands the way photography works. Photography is about more than just showing off technology. It’s also about expressing emotions and thoughts. So, the Leica MP was designed with you in mind. We know how important it is for photographers to have a camera that reflects their personal style and emotional commitment to their craft. It’s not just a camera, it’s a faithful friend that will be there to cheer you on as you grow and create!

In this digital age, Leica has remained true to its love and dedication to film cameras. It has continued to launch classics like the MP, providing more choices and possibilities for professionals who love film photography and pursue a pure photographic experience. This is so much more than just a tribute to tradition. It’s also a sign of confidence and a peek into what the future of photography might hold. The Leica MP in black is the perfect embodiment of this unwavering belief and anticipation.

We know you’ve taken countless photos with this Leica MP, and we’d love to hear your honest opinion! This camera is so reliable! It’s super stable, and the smoother it feels the more you use it. It’s become a great companion on your photographic journey.
Every time you press the shutter, you can feel the precision and reliability of the classic Leica MP design. It’s as if the mechanical structure has been brought to life by time! The more you use it, the more it seems to know what you want it to do. It’s smooth and natural to use. This is the unique charm of a Leica camera! You’ll find it hard to let go once you start using it.

leica mp + summicron 35mm f2 asph + fomapan400 film

Leica M9 Review

The Adolescence of Leica Digital – Leica M9

The last Kodak train made its way to the station, carrying with it the CCD of the M9. It was a sad day when the last Kodak train took away the CCD of the M9. But it couldn’t be kept, nor could it be saved. Leica has entered the exciting, mature CMOS era! Youth will eventually say goodbye, but it’s a bittersweet moment. Farewell, youth! As you slowly fade away, your pure happiness stings memories.

Remembering the Leica M9

In 2009, Leica released the M9, and it was a game-changer! Just think of all the people who dream of having one! The world’s first full-frame rangefinder digital camera! Just imagine holding such a camera, like Henri Cartier-Bresson, wandering the streets. How many fantasies could it evoke?
Just how many people only discovered this amazing brand thanks to the incredible Leica M9? At that time, it was the most impressive 135 full-frame digital camera on the market. Just one look at you with this camera around your neck and you’d be the center of attention wherever you went!

How many people have tried different settings in Photoshop, trying to get their Canon or Sony colors to match Leica? They usually end up failing, not because of Photoshop, but because they’re impatient.

Classic Elements of the Leica M9

The viewfinder frame of the M9 is physically lit, just like the film M cameras. Film users will feel comfortable looking at the front face of the M9, while the bald front face of the M240 and M10 may feel a bit awkward. In addition, the M-E and M240, which were introduced after the Leica M9, lack the preview lever, making them look less classic in appearance. Therefore, when looking back at the M9, its classic elements appear more dazzling. Nowadays, the M10 also lacks the light window, and Leica designers realized this. If we continue to simplify it like this, can we still call it a Leica? Therefore, Leica M10 quickly introduced the most classic rewind knob of the M3, making it into an ISO dial. In order to maintain its classic elements, it can be said that they put in a lot of effort.

Leica users are interesting. On one hand, they say that Leica is becoming less and less classic, but on the other hand, they look forward to seeing what new products Leica will release slowly. This shows that Leica M has always had some kind of tacit understanding with its users, which can only be explained by mysticism. But in any case, it is now a consensus that there is no light window after the M9. From today on, the Leica M9 is officially classified as a classic camera!

M8 and M9

APS-H and full-frame are the differences in film size, but in terms of operation, the M8 and M9 are basically the same. Once you get used to the M8 and M9, it might feel a bit strange to switch to the M240 and M10 in terms of settings. The menus on the M8 and M9 are pretty simple, which makes them seem easier to use.

The Color of the M9

I think film is better than digital. It has more character. No matter what data you use to prove the high pixels and accurate colors of digital, it can never replace the premium texture of film. I think it’s fair to say that the color of the Leica M9 is pretty close to film. In fact, I’d go as far as to say that’s the biggest compliment you can pay the M9.

CCD vs. CMOS

The CCD from Kodak gives the Leica M9 a special texture, of course, when paired with Leica lenses. Many people switched from CCD to CMOS, but still missed the color and texture of the M9. The solid blue, the pure red, and the greenish tone throughout the photo—they always give you some unexpected surprises. That’s the characteristic of film, right?

Don’t get me wrong, the CCD of the M9 is an amazing piece of technology. Some people can even process a CMOS photo to have a CCD-like texture, it just takes some time. And the color of Leica’s CMOS is also not to be underestimated. It is not something other brands can easily catch up with.

Raw Dynamic Range

The good news is that underexposure of up to 4 stops can be salvaged, while overexposure can be recovered up to 3 stops. This is truly amazing! It’s incredible how well it retains highlights, especially when compared to other cameras. Many people have been blown away by this feature, and they’re saying that highlights can’t be recovered as well in CMOS cameras.

Conclusion

I’m not here to judge other people’s opinions about the Leica M9. Everyone’s entitled to their own! For me, it will always be a camera that inspires admiration! It was then, it is now, and it will be again! Because I’ve never denied those whimsical thoughts from my youth!

For the previous generation, owning an M3 was a truly happy thing! For those who were interested in Leica ten years ago, owning an M9 was an absolute dream come true! I’m not trying to persuade you to buy a Leica M9. I’m just sharing my love for this amazing camera! Maybe you’re thinking about the M11 or M10? Well, my song might not be in your dreams, but it’s definitely worth a listen!

I love Leica M3

When I got my first film camera, a Leica M3, I was over the moon! I sold most of my DSLRs because I fell head over heels for the M3 and those cameras just weren’t doing it for me anymore. And that was just the beginning!

The M3 is a 60-year-old mechanical camera, but it was the start of something wonderful for me. “A street photographer without a film camera is like a body without a soul. Hahaha.” I think the Leica M3 has a special quality: the more time you spend with it, the better your photography becomes. This quality is transferred from the camera through your fingers, your skin, your nerves. This isn’t your typical objective camera review. It’s more like a heartfelt poem that expresses my emotions.

Real Classic

The Leica M3 is a real classic! It was the first film camera to adopt a bayonet-mounted interchangeable lens design, which is still used in interchangeable lens cameras today. Compared with the previous screw-rotating lens assembly method, this bayonet method allows for quick lens replacement.
But the Leica M3 is a great camera in so many other ways too! Its film advance wrench has also been widely used by other brand film cameras.

The story of buying a Leica M3

On a sunny afternoon, I strolled through the alleys of the old street, carrying in my heart the infinite love for the art of photography. I was on a mission to find the perfect second-hand Leica M3 camera! The old street was lined with all kinds of stores, but my eyes were always locked on an inconspicuous secondhand camera store that had a really charming vintage feel to it.

As I stepped inside, I was immediately drawn in by the unique atmosphere of age and metal luster. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a soft light and a lovely display of old cameras on wooden shelves. Each one seemed to tell a story from the past, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and admiration. I asked the shopkeeper in the gentlest way if he had a classic Leica M3.

The shopkeeper smiled and seemed to know exactly what I was looking for. He carefully took out a well-maintained Leica M3 from behind the counter. It was so shiny in the sunlight! You could see every detail, and it was clear that a lot of skill and time had gone into making it.

I took the camera and gently stroked the cool metal surface, feeling the weight and texture of it in my hands. As I looked through the viewfinder, it felt like I could see every single moment that had been captured by photographers in the past. I pressed the shutter, and even though it was just a little click, I fell in love with this camera right away. It has a unique mechanical beauty and a wonderful sense of ceremony.

The lovely shopkeeper was kind enough to tell me all about the camera’s history, how it performs, and all the people it’s been with over the years. As I listened to each story, I felt my understanding of this camera deepen and my emotional connection to it grow stronger. After a little back and forth, we finally struck a deal at a price that was just right for us.

As I walked out of the store, holding this precious Leica M3 in my hands, I was filled with so much excitement and anticipation! I knew that this wasn’t just a camera purchase, but a tribute to the legacy of photography and a promise to capture countless beautiful moments in the future. On this sunny afternoon, my encounter with the Leica M3 became a truly unforgettable experience.

Leica m2

Simple cameras make street photographers happy

Time is an amazing thing, isn’t it? It’s the invisible sculptor that quietly changes everything in the world in its own unique way. And nothing is more subtle and far-reaching than the changes in people’s hearts and the reshaping of aesthetics. Once upon a time, the Leica M3 was my absolute favorite. It was more than just a camera to me—it was a symbol of the pinnacle of photographic technology and the perfect camera that art seekers could only dream of. The classic body design, the smooth lines, and the iconic viewfinder all emphasized the unique charm and exquisite craftsmanship of the Leica brand, which I just loved! Over time, though, my perspective and state of mind have shifted a bit.

In recent years, I’ve noticed the Leica M2 popping up more and more in my field of vision. I’ve been really drawn to its unique minimalist aesthetics, and it’s slowly but surely become a more and more important part of my heart. The M2’s design language is inspired by the M3, but it’s stripped away a few things here and there, keeping the essential elements and removing any extra decorations. I just love this minimalist design style! It makes the M2 look so much lighter and more elegant, and it touches my deepest desire for purity and simplicity.

Let’s take a trip down memory lane! The Leica M3 made its grand entrance in 1954. It was a pivotal moment in Leica camera history and a true landmark in the annals of photography. Its advanced mechanical structure, precise metering system, and excellent image quality have won the hearts of countless photographers. Just three short years later, the Leica M2 was introduced as a simplified version of the M3. It was positioned as a more approachable model, but it showed its unique charm and advantages in certain aspects. It shows Leica’s deep understanding and love for photography in a really direct and pure way.

When I look at these two cameras again, I feel so many emotions! The Leica M3 will always have a special place in my heart. It represents a glorious past and endless memories.

Built-in 35mm Viewfinder Frame

The M2’s simple yet classic design is just the beginning of its charms. Its built-in 35mm viewfinder frame is a big part of why photography enthusiasts love it so much! The 35mm frame gives photographers a wider perspective, which is great for including more of the environment and story clues in your images. It’s also a great way to capture those fleeting moments of vividness!
35mm lenses have a unique perspective that can really inspire creativity. They’re also a great choice if you’re looking to include more of your surroundings in your images. In the wonderful world of photography, the combination of a Leica rangefinder camera and a 35mm lens is often praised as the “storyteller’s camera.” Together, they can tell a richer, more subtle, and more compelling story. So, as more and more people have fallen in love with 35mm lenses, it’s become clearer than ever that the M2’s viewfinder is one of its best features. It’s no wonder it’s held in such high regard!

CANON Model 7 Rangefinder Camera

CANON Model 7 rangefinder camera

Canon was once a major player in the rangefinder camera market, producing a wide range of models that captured the imagination of photographers everywhere. One of them, the Canon Model 7, has design elements that are similar to the Leica M3, but not exactly the same. It has Canon’s own features and built-in metering, which makes it a unique and special camera. It was also the last rangefinder camera Canon produced, after which Canon shifted its focus to DSLR production. Here’s the Canon Camera Museum, where you can see all their amazing camera models!

User-friendly

The shutter sound of CANON Model 7 is slightly louder than that of Leica. It has a metal shutter. When the shutter speed dial is switched from 15 to 8, it requires a little force and there is a clicking sound. It should be a kind of tactile feedback and sound prompt for switching the shutter speed to slow, which can remind the photographer that the shutter has been switched to a slow speed. But I don’t know if this change in feel is necessary, Leica doesn’t have it.

It’s clear from this machine that Canon is trying to make the user experience more user-friendly by adding some user care features. It seems like all subsequent Canon products have this as a core feature.

Viewfinder of model 7

Manual selection is available for 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, and 100mm wire frames, as well as 135mm wire frames. Leica automatically adjusts the framing according to the lens.

Focus

The camera’s focus area is clearly defined, and the viewfinder magnification is not insignificant. However, it is slightly darker than the Leica M. As is the case with all Leica imitations, the center focus area is blurred around the edges. In my estimation, the Leica center square remains the superior option, offering clear edges and enhanced ease of focus. It is evident that Leica continues to excel in this regard.

Metering

In 1961, Canon equipped the rangefinder body with an advanced metering system. The metering function of the Canon 7 in my possession exhibited an accuracy that was unexpected. However, the plastic window always appeared somewhat unappealing.

L39 mount

This is a fantastic rangefinder camera! It’s well constructed and would be even more impressive if it had an M mount. Unfortunately, it uses the L39, which unfortunately means it can’t use many of the excellent Leica M-mount lenses.