UPDATED!!! I was this close to buying one...
Written: Jun 14 '00 (Updated Sep 11 '00)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Leica quality lens (and a 2.4)
Cons: price
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| nplus1's Full Review: Leica Minilux 35mm Film Camera |
When I decided to purchase a high quality "point and shoot" with manual capabilities, I only felt I had two choices: the Leica Minilux, or the Contax T2. Having already owned a leica III f, I looked at the minilux first. I found it to be a very high quality camera, and if the picture quality was anything like my III f, I knew I'd be happy with it. Here's why-
It is fairly user friendly:
It can be as easy to use as a point and shoot with its aperture priority setting the correct shutter speed to make the picture turn out( It can also go on complete auto, setting both the shutter and aperture for you).
It has an automatic flash (which can be turned off)
Its BRIGHT viewfinder has the outlines of the autofocus measuring field and the close up range and panoramic areas as well.
Its Lens is tack sharp:
The 40 mm F2.4 (which has 6 element in 4 groups) takes an outstanding picture. I've seen some of the results and they're impressive. This 2.4 lens also allows more light to reach the film plane than the contax T2's 2.8. I've also always been impressed with the contrast I've gotten with the leica lenses I own and I'm sure this lens would be no exception.
You can take control!!!:
This camera is not just a point and shoot. You have the ability to override the auto setting and set both the aperture and focus manually. For me this is a necessity. After having an SLR I couldn't stand to lose the ability to control depth of field.
It's elegant:
Anyone who looks at this camera has to admit that its got a great aesthetic. The contrast of the titanium body against the black leather trim brings me back to the days of the old rangefinder cameras. It's subtle and understated. This camera is by no means gaudy.
I ended up purchasing the T2. Why? well...some of it was the fact that I got a great deal on the T2. And some of it was curiosity. I already had my Leica IIIf. Why not try the Contax. I know I would have been happy with this camera too.
Recommended:
No
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Epinions.com ID:
nplus1
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Location: San Jose, Ca (east coast transplant)
Reviews written: 19
Trusted by: 8 members
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