My Leica Blog

Leica D-Lux 4 Fun

2012-01-03T18:15:00.000-08:00

I was using the Leica D-Lux 4 the other day and having fun photographing Ozzy and my sister's step-grandkids. Every time I go back to this camera I fall in love with the quality again. It never ceases to amaze me.

I wonder if the X1 and M9 are as much fun to use? I am itching to try them both. I love using the M6 film camera, but not so sure the M9 would fit into my life. Maybe an X1? I would wait until the cameras are updated. I know everyone complains about the slow AF on the X1, but can't you use Zone Focusing on it?

John in motion

I love how the Leica D-Lux 4 renders black and white files!

I think B&W is my favorite with this camera

Grace wants to go in the pool

Even though the pool is heated, Grace was still cold!

John's Striped Shirt

I love how Leica handles the colors. I think color is my favorite. LOL

John is an excellent model

Splash!

Tall Kids with Short Ozzy

Striped Shirt

ZzZzZzzZz

Pooped!

Ozzy looks like he's in a zoo!

Half Spinal Twist Yoga Position

Hunchback

Sunbathing

Anyway, I used different modes with the Leica D-Lux 4 and was happy with each one. I think I used a b&w film mode. I need to re-read the book on this camera. There are so many features and I would like to know them all. Oh yeah, I used flash for the pictures of John posing in the pool. Cool, huh? I never use flash. i was experimenting. I truly need to re-read that "Photographer's guide to the Leica D-Lux 4" book by Alexander S. White!

Using the Leica D-Lux 4

2011-12-10T13:01:00.000-08:00

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Playing with the Leica D-Lux 4. The last shot is the choice shot of the day.

Leica D-Lux 4

2011-12-08T19:03:00.000-08:00

12-08-11 (774) Stare

Handsome

Defiant

Playing with light & shadow

The first light & shadow shot was actually an in camera B&W which ended up being quite noisy. That's what I get for doing it in camera, not manual, and JPG. The second and third shot were done manually.

Leica D-Lux 4 Love

2011-11-25T22:58:00.000-08:00

Below are pictures from the project for the third year.

I've started a third year of taking pictures of my dog Ozzy, and here are a few shots taken with the Leica D-Lux 4 camera. Some are extras. More and more people are moving onto bigger and better sensor cameras. I know I have the Sony NEX 5 which has the lovely APS-C sensor in it. Still, I love the little D-Lux 4, and don't want to give it up. I love shooting in square format and black and white; either converting afterwards in Photoshop or in the camera using the settings. Yeah, I know the sensor is small on this camera. I still love the lovely lens and the camera has always delivered beautiful photos in manual, (when I take my time), and in Auto mode, (when I'm lazy and just shooting for fun when i'm out and about during the day.) So, yes, I have the Sony, but the lenses are not as fast or sharp. The little Leica D-Lux 4 is still my little gem that everyone has seemed to abandon for the newer cameras. I almost got sucked into the D-Lux 5 updated version, but glad I held out. The rendering of files look like shit with the D-Lux 5, in my opinion. I see how crazy the prices have gone up on this camera too. I guess people are starting to realize that bigger isn't necessarily better. For some, this camera is just right.

Leica M6 & 35mm Summicron 2.0 ASPH

2011-11-06T14:38:00.000-08:00

I replaced my Leica M6 that I sold earlier this year with another M6. I used to use a 50mm Summicron on the M6 and a 35mm Summicron on the M8.2 digital, (to give it a 50mm length.) Having sold all of that gear to fund a move from Connecticut to Arizona, I was without my beloved M6 and decided to go into a bit of debt to get the M6 & 35 Cron combo. I figured the 35 cron was my perfect combo for just about everything. If I needed a 50 cron later on down the road, well, it's a bit cheaper and easier to find one. Anyway, it's not the smartest thing to go into a bit of debt while also looking to buy a house. (It's my only debt, so I figured it was not that bad.)

Having moved to Arizona in the summer, dealing with heat and apartment living, I wasn't doing too much photography other than digital. I was just too busy settling in to my digs, while my sister and her husband settled into theirs as well. (We live next door to each other in this apartment complex.) Other than a few shots grabbed with a digital camera, and my picture per day of Ozzy, I haven't been exploring much of anything other than air conditioning and doing a bit of grocery shopping. (You have to realize I am also house hunting. I am with a realtor trying to buy the cheapest, cleanest place and that in itself is stressful.) I'm only now beginning to enjoy the cooler weather, and some free time. Meanwhile, I was missing my M6 and film. (All of my film is in the fridge. I have rolls of 120 and 35mm. I have my Rolleiflex TLR sitting on a shelf just waiting. I have the film, I have both cameras, and soon I hope to have the time. LOL! Oh, I am also looking for employment.)

My next thing to do on my list is to get out there and shoot my XP 2 and Sensia Reala film, then get some Tri-X 400 and learn how to develop. Right now, I have a bunch of film to burn through. I just need more time to do it. Argh! Sorry for the lack of posts. My computer also had a meltdown and was brought in to be fixed twice. Thankfully I had Applecare. (I never buy a Mac without it.)

Leica D-Lux 4: More Ozzy

2011-10-31T19:31:00.000-07:00

More Ozzy photos with the Leica D-Lux 4

Leica M6: Oops! Found Old Roll from May 2010!

2011-10-29T23:37:00.000-07:00

Danny & Diane

Deb & Doug

Devin & Aleisha

Devin

Den

Dominic

Father & Daughter

Dominic SR

Father & Son

Devin & "Frammy"

Mick

Kitchen Table

Diane, Alex & Kirsten

Tim

Tim & Devin

Diane & Kirsten

Alex

Alex & Devin

At the Jack & Jill Party

Bikes at the Bar

Yum!

Mommy? Nope!

Dominic SR getting a kick out of me taking his picture.

Funny Guy

See? Funny!

The Crew

Talking Politics! Yuk!

Eleanor

A Quiet Moment

Back to Gabbing.

Sentimental

Well, I found this old roll of dated film stock that I shot, well actually two rolls. They were outdated by MANY years. I shot them through the M6 back in May of 2010! The film was over 5 years old, (I think from 2005), but I tried it anyway. I got some weird results. the film definitely showed its age, but I'm glad I shot it anyway. I did the best I could to fix them in Photoshop, or they would look worse than this! I got some cool shots, just the same. From now on though, I'm using fresh film. This is a repost. So, double Oops. I may as well keep it. It's to remind me that even with the oldest film, the M6 rules. LOL!

Leica D-Lux 4: Joe's Farm & Scooters

2011-10-29T21:51:00.000-07:00

Agritopia Community Gardens

If I bought property on Joe's land, I could plant a garden on my own plot of land.

The landscape designer gave me a quick tour. Agritopia is part of a community in Gilbert. Joe's Farm Grill and The Coffee House are two restaurants in that community that I adore.

Hello Kitty Vespa!

Isn't she cute? She's all Vespa!

Scooter Meetup at Joe's Farm Grill. No, I don't own a Scooter...yet.

Someone has this pink beauty.

Pretty in Pink!

Getting ready for their ride. they had quite the turnout.

Some of these Scooters go as fast as 85 MPH without modifying.

Red!

Well, these pictures are something different than my dog. I bet you're happy. I know I am. LOL! I just happened on this scene one mile from my apartment. There was a Scooter meet-up which also involved two or three Pet Adoption Groups. They had all of these dogs, cats and puppies up for adoption located at Joe's Farm Grill. They were in the back by the picnic tables. The Scooter Club was sponsoring them? I think that's how it was explained to me. Anyway, there was also a meet-up for a ride later in the day around 2pm. They were riding to some mountain. (Yeah, I know. I'm surrounded by mountains here in Gilbert, Arizona! I can't recall the name of the mountain.) I just happened to get thirsty for one of The Coffee Shop's Pumpkin Monsoon drinks, which is coffee with crushed ice, cream, sugar, pumpkin flavor and whipped cream. It's like the Starbuck's version of a Frappuccino. Yum!

So, I got here, took a short tour with the landscape designer who happened to be there with his tricked out black Vespa, (one of the older ones that has shifting gears! I didn't get a picture. What an idiot I am! Luckily, he lives in Agritopia, so I'll catch a picture of it at some point.) I was so fascinated with the whole scene. Meanwhile it's hot and I'm trying to shoot in BRIGHT sun with this little Leica D-Lux 4 and was having a tough time shooting it in manual mode. Why? I couldn't see the little LCD! I couldn't make out what I was photographing due to the glare. What a pain in the ass this little guy is without a viewfinder. I ended up switching it to all Auto a few times. I took primarily RAW and in manual mode though, so I didn't cop out totally. Camera manufacturers need to reincorporate the optical viewfinders in these cameras. (Fuji listened with their X100 camera.) Boy, do I miss optical viewfinders. So much so that I almost sold this camera...but I just couldn't do it. It's my only Leica. (More on that in a bit.)

Now, I have the Canon S95, which I use on occasion, but mostly my sister uses it. I also have the Sony NEX 5, which has somewhat soft kit lenses, but a nice APS-C sensor, and my trusty Nikon D90 with a 50mm fast lens. Each of these has its own pluses and minuses. The simplest solution is to have a small camera with optical viewfinder and a big sensor. Shouldn't be that hard to build, but apparently it is.

Plum. My favorite besides the expresso color which wasn't here.

They want six thousand dollars for this Vespa. Why not just get a regular motorcycle then?

Agritopia will be expanding at some point with a few stores and restaurants. No food or store chains. Yippee!

The Leica D-Lux 4 is not fun to use in bright sunlight. Neither is the Sony or any other camera that has just the LCD screen to view. The only camera that I enjoy using in all conditions is my Nikon D90, and that's only because it has an optical viewfinder. I can hold it up to my eye. If any of the smaller compacts had this, I wouldn't be so aggravated. Ahh, compromises! When I moved here in July of this year I had to sell a bunch of Leica gear. I had no choice. Now I bit the bullet and have purchased another Leica M6, and a 35mm Summicron 2.0 ASPH lens. They will be arriving at some time next week. Both are used but in good condition. We shall see. I am in debt again, but I couldn't help it. I want to shoot 35mm film with that M again. Now that the weather is better, I will be using my medium format film cameras as well, but this blog is about my experience with Leica Gear. I can honestly say, the film M is my favorite Leica right now. I have never tried an M9, so I can't compare it to that. I owned the M8.2 but found it not to be what I really wanted, which was originally the M9 camera. Being that the M9 is too much money for me to spend right now, and it isn't exactly up to specs in regards to quality, (failing sensors, sensor dust issues, back focusing problems, freezing up cameras, and more), I've decided to stick with film until an M10 or better comes out. Of course I don't have the cash to blow on such extravagant gear, but I can dream and wish for that perfect camera. I don't believe the M9 is it yet. But it's coming. The M6 film camera is as close to nirvana as I can get right now. It's the only camera that felt just perfect in my hands and seemed intuitive to use. I embrace digital as I can take as many pictures and dump them too without all the waste. But I'm finding out that digital isn't as good as film in regards to results. Film looks better to me. There are only a few pictures that I've taken with various digital gear that I loved for the quality in the file, but I'm always chasing the film look, so why bother?

I honestly don't know what the answer is here. I've come to love digital, but pine for film. The film quality is so addictive that I long for a day when the film labs come back. I wish I knew enough about film developing that I could do my own lab work. ( Black and white and slides)That seems to be the path I'm starting to embrace. I can always scan the negatives for a quick look on a blog, but will still have those lovely negatives and slides to hold in my hand and print on fine papers.

I'm very happy with my decision in biting the debt bullet to get that M6 and 35mm cron. Will I keep the little Leica D-Lux 4? Well, yeah! I think it's a great compact camera, and I may get the viewfinder for it! I love the different size formats, especially square format. I don't need a ton of megapixels. I've gotten beautiful prints from all the digital gear mentioned above. Going full frame is just another expense I don't need, and I figure I am going that route by using film. I'm just happy that I will be using a Leica M again. Now I have to go find a job to pay all this shit off. LOL!

Leica D-Lux 4: Collectible?

2011-08-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

Artsy Fartsy Ozzy

Film Grain Effect

Soul

Texture

Many Faces of Ozzy

Toy Camera Effect

Would you consider the Leica D-Lux 4 a collectible camera? It seems to hold onto its value well enough to wonder about it. The sensor is small compared to many cameras out there, but remember when cameras only had 4 megapixels? LOL! Who knows if it is a collectible or will be even worthy of a second glance now that Sony has just announced its NEX 7 camera. It's going to be a whopping 24 mp on that APS-C sensor. Not so sure that will be good either. I know Sony is coming out with an NEX 5 update which is still 12 mp but with the viewfinder like the NEX 7. A new Zeiss lens is coming out as well. So, is the Leica D-Lux 4 a collectible? Will the new Sony have square format as an option? Should I hang onto the little Leica? I know that I still use it on occasion, and it has a certain pleasing look to the files. It's starting to become a little dinosaur like all of it's little competitors of this size sensor. Everyone has moved onto the bigger sensors. Me, I just ordered a Canon S95 as a bum around camera for my sister. I was going to let her use this camera, but I figured she would find the lens cap aggravating. I know I do. I find the files worth the aggravation, but she isn't into photography, like me. She just wants to point and shoot the bugger. I can't say as I blame her. My addiction to photography and my worse addiction to gear makes things less simplistic and fun. Perhaps keeping this little guy around will keep the fun in my life. I know I love using my iPhone 4, but am not fooled into believing that I could use it as a pro camera. It's just a fun camera. the Leica is sort of like that too, as is the Olympus EP-3 and Sony NEX 5. Yes, I said Sony NEX 5. I don't know why it's fun to shoot with, as everyone on the planet complains about the soft lenses and menu system. I don't have a problem with the menu system at all, but I do agree the kit lenses aren't the best, but they aren't the worst either. I get some cool shots from them. It's even more fun to use the video. It's lovely.

The D-Lux 4 is fun for square format as I have mentioned many times before, and for the constant surprise of how lovely the files come out of this little camera. Is it the lens?There is something about a D-Lux 4 file that I can't explain. I just love the files from this thing. I think some of my favorite B&W files came from the Leica M8.2 though. They were so lovely.

I guess I'll keep the little Leica as it's the only one I have left, and without it, there would be no Leica blog. LOL! Seriously, I'm waiting for the day when Leica gets its elitist head out of its ass and delivers a nice digital CL type camera. Maybe I'll just bite the bullet and get another Leica film camera. I'm always trying to emulate B&W film anyway! Seriously!

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy Pictures & Sensor Size

2011-07-31T15:42:00.000-07:00

Ozzy's new OM collar.

The King is sleeping.

I don't have a couch yet in the new place, and this guy housed up my chair. Little shit.

Check out the drool!

Chomp!

The Original and the cropped files below with various textures and Photoshop CS 5 added. Which do you like best?

Cropped Only

Texture & Photoshop CS

Chomp!

The pictures below were chosen for the "Beyond 365 Days with Ozzy" project.

I've been using the Leica D-Lux 4 lately because I like the square format and the sharpness and rendering of the files. The Leica lens is lovely too. I wish the sensor was bigger though. Yeah, I know. My Nikon has an awesome sensor in it. I love the combination of 50mm F/1.8 lens and APS-C sensor. My Sony NEX 5 has an APS-C sensor in it as well. Both of those cameras are lovely to shoot. The Nikon has the better lens, the Sony has the better, compact size. Slap a Summicron on the Sony, and I have both, but at a cost of using it as a manual focus lens.The little compacts (Leica D-Lux series), have come a long way, but I do notice the difference between the APS-C, and smaller sensor. It's become quite apparent that once I get past ISO 400, there are noticeable differences in noise. At least the Leica has a fast F/2 lens. It's a classic camera, but I do see its limitations. Having said that, I can't help going back to the camera again and again. Why is that? There is something in the lens, something in the way the Leica renders the file. It pleases my eye. So, while I wish that the sensor was bigger, I still can't put the camera away or sell it, because it makes lovely photographs that I can blow up feasibly to 8X10 inches at the very least. The square format is my favorite, as you can see by my use of it throughout the D-Lux 4 entries, but I also like using the 16:9 and others. The sensor issue is a real issue, but I also believe it's like chasing the dangling carrot; always trying to get better and better megapixels. It's a chase that never ends, like the chase for a faster computer. It's constant upgrading and it gets old. I don't know what the answer is, but at some point I just want to enjoy what I own and get on with the photography.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I also have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy Pictures

2011-07-19T16:13:00.000-07:00

We continue our regular program with more Ozzy pictures. LOL!

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4 Camera & Sony NEX 5

2011-07-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

I have been using it less and less these days due to the Sony NEX 5 camera. Now, this is a matter of convenience while I was moving to Arizona from Connecticut. I still love the little Leica D-Lux 4. Here's why: The Leica lens is better and sharper than the Sony lenses. I love how the Leica lens renders things sharp, as the Sony lenses can run a bit soft. The Leica lens is faster too, compared to my 18-55mm zoom on the Sony. (The D-Lux 5 has the option of a longer zoom range to 90mm too.) I do like the better sensor in the Sony though. I have to admit to that. One thing that Sony needs to do is allow for a square format. They added some fun filters in an update, but to me, the square format is a must in these small compacts. I love the variety of framing the Leica camera has and wish the X1 had it. (No, I don't own one. LOL!) The X1 has a nice APS-C sensor, like the Sony, but at 2K, it's ridiculous for what it doesn't have. Still, the lenses on the Leica cameras are so much nicer than the Sony NEX. A remedy for this would be for those Carl Zeiss lenses to come out! Hello, Sony? Wake-up! Where are the lenses?

Another option is to use different glass on the Sony. Yes, with an adapter, you can use Leica lenses, but in MF only. If Leica made a CL version, something cheaper than the M, but better than the X1, I'd be all over it. Maybe Nikon, Sony or Canon will do it. Leica had better watch out. Still some of the Leica gear, such as their lenses are just so lovely, but not many people have that kind of cash. Or you have the cash but can't justify that kind of purchase, like me. All I can see is Suze Orman screaming at me. LOL!

Okay, so I still adore my Leica D-Lux 4 for it's unique way of capturing shots. It's dynamic B&W setting is superb, and the shots taken up to ISO 400 and sometimes ISO 800 are still beautiful. Oh, and there's a flash attached. Sony's flash is detachable and I've NEVER used it due to its superb low light capabilities. Let's be fair though. The Leica S-Lux sensors are so small in comparison to the Sony. So, what do you want? Do you want a beautiful rendering with sharper lens and square format on the Leica? the Leica makes a great street photography tool. Or do you want the low light capabilities of the Sony when you need it? Well, I'm keeping both cameras. No one camera is perfect. Each has it's own pluses and minuses. What I would LOVE to see is that Leica would revise the X1 with all the cool stuff the D-Lux has, an OVF and then I'd get one. Meanwhile, the Leica and Sony stay with me. (Now, you can also get a Canon S95 and have an even more pocketable cameras, or even the Ricoh GRD III. Both are wonderful cameras. But, the build quality on the S95 is a bit cheaper. There are some lovely compacts out there. Go out and shoot.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Thorne's Market

Ramona

Bubble Boy

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy Pictures

2011-05-03T12:22:00.000-07:00

I love playing with the Leica D-Lux 4. It's such a cool camera.

Sepia Tone via Exposure 3

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Dog Pictures and Sensor Size Rant

2011-04-25T06:50:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I know. Everyone who reads this website is seeing more pictures of my damn dog. LOL! Well, I'm still taking one picture per day for a project and there will be extra shots. I use the Leica D-Lux 4 once in a while. I vary the cameras. I figure once the weather is better, I can go back out with the leica and take pictures of something other than the dog. Frankly, I'm becoming one dimensional. Yes, the project is important, but I love photographing so many other things and my obsession with the daily dog photo is becoming evident. With that said, the light has been terrible due torrential, rainy weather. Still, I used the little Leica at high ISOs indoors because I hate flash, so I know there will be noise. Some of the photos were taken outside, and I was able to use lower ISOs.

Seriously, I'm going stir-crazy with this manic weather. Ahh, New England! If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes! Isn't that how the saying goes? At any rate, having used my Sony NEX 5 and Nikon D90, I'm well aware of the image quality differences. The little sensor in the Leica holds up to a point, but it's starting to show its age. Camera technology is now into APS-C and above sensors. If they can put a APS-C sensor in the little Sony, perhaps they can do that one day in a compact camera? The bigger Leica X-1 would be an obvious choice if it wasn't a fixed lens and still slow with the AF even after the much waited firmware update. Still, the bigger sensor is so much nicer. I'm not a pro, though I have camera tastes like one. LOL!

One thing that holds me to the little Leica D-Lux series is the compactness, though not as compact as the Canon S95, it still is compact enough. I briefly owned a Canon S95, and I loved the compactness but hated the cheap feel of the camera. One of my favorite Canon cameras was the little SD800 IS camera. It had an optical viewfinder, something you don't see anymore on these camera. What a shame. Yeah, it didn't shoot RAW, but it was a blast to shoot.

Still, I enjoy the size of the Leica camera itself. I also enjoy the square format. My Sony and Nikon don't do that. Sure I can crop, but what's the point? One thing the D-Lux has that the other cameras don't is the fun factor. The Sony is fun, but not as much fun as the Leica. That's due to its square format. Still the Sony can shoot Panorama and lovely video.

When all is said and done, this little Leica is a blast to use though. It's the only Leica that I still currently own right now until I move, but I still think this is a fun camera compared to anything else. (Well, except the little SD800!) I love the dynamic black and white mode! This would be the camera I would take for quick trips out of the house. (Besides the obvious choice of the iPhone!)

What keeps me hanging onto this little camera is its size and the files it produces. Even at high ISO I like the files better than what was coming out of the Canon S95 and other cameras. Plus, I am getting lazier as I get older and if I am to carry a camera all day, I want it to be very small. I wish a camera manufacturer would come out with a simple compact camera with a larger sensor. Oh, while I'm wishing, add a GPS tagging and WiFi ability to it. That would be cool.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica Time Strap Broke

2011-04-14T08:23:00.001-07:00

Leica Time Strap Broke, originally uploaded by Lainey1.

I bought it last May and it broke today. I used this on my Leica D-Lux 4. I loved Luigi's Leica Time cases and straps, but was kind of disappointed that this didn't even hold up for one year. I don't use the camera all that much so I would imagine if I used it daily, it would have broken a lot sooner. I emailed Luigi's english speaking assistant to see if they will fix or replace the strap. We shall see. (I was offered a replacement of the strap from Luigi if I BOUGHTany new or small item, and remind him of what happened to my strap, that he'd give me a new one. In a second email Luigi offers a free wrist strap in a possible new deal. I emailed to ask what exactly this meant because it either means I buy something an get a strap replaced free with another purchase or I just ask for a replacement, and get it for free? I'm not sure.) I also got a nastygram from Luigi or his minions barking at me that I shouldn't have this post online.

Luigi stated that the piece of leather that became unglued was a "superfluous" piece, that I shouldn't consider it "broken". (Then why is it even incorporated as part of the strap in the first place? That piece is for tightening the strap to the wrist.) They said "I should glue it back together myself", or not glue it, and use the strap without it. (Is this guy serious?) The fact is, the little piece helps keep the strap snug on my wrist. Without it, not so snug, and I prefer to have it snug. I like that they incorporated it, and find it to be an important feature of the strap. Luigi's is not pleased about my writing this blog post, but the strap didn't last even a year with mild use before the little piece became unglued. Luigi stated that none of his straps ever broke, and I'm sure it hasn't at the point of connection where the strap meets the camera. My strap became unglued and no longer tightens around my wrist. Unglued. Broken. Semantics. If the strap no longer tightens around my wrist because a piece became unglued, what does one call that? I call it broken. Instead of Luigi arguing with me in broken, confused English, or offering to replace the strap if I buy something else from him, he should have better customer service and replaced the strap without the nasty emails or ridiculous replacement requirements.

He offered to fix or replace the strap, which was nice, but I'm not sure of the exact offer he made due to his broken english. He offered to replace it if I bought a small item along with it. I'm sure it's just a matter of miscommunication and the issue will be resolved. Luigi also feels that my writing about this is in someway disrespecting him. I'm sorry he feels this way,and find his over reaction to be part of the problem and not the solution. His anger only makes my experience worse. I'm just a person writing a blog about my experiences, and from what I experienced, Luigi's products may be nice, but my strap broke, and it was a very expensive strap! Even my cheapest nylon strap that came with my Canon S95 never broke.

Would I still buy from Luigi? Probably not, due to how expensive the product is, and the customer service is lacking. I love his leather goods, but hey are quite expensive, and that's why I was perplexed with the piece becoming unglued, but it happened. I still love their leather products, and am actually considering buying a nice leather Rollei strap from them for my Rolleiflex. Price-wise, it's just too ridiculously expensive, and that's without adding shipping and handling!

Update 04-27-11: I'm still waiting for a reply to my email about the deal that Luigi offered. Apparently I have to buy something and then get my replacement strap for free? I can't just get a replacement strap for free. Makes no sense. It could be the broken english, but I asked for an explanation. I haven't received an answer yet. If I do have to buy something else, that isn't resolving my broken strap issue. Why not just send another strap? No answer to emails. I guess that is an answer.

05-20-11: I never heard again from Leica Time Luigi straps. I've written another reply and the only solution given to me was to buy something else, and then get a free strap. Well, that's what the broken english email said, but having asked if that was the intention from Luigi, I never received a reply from him. I only got an email stating how mean I am for writing this. Thanks, Luigi. That's great customer service? What happened to "the customer is always right"? No answer. Nothing. Live and learn. Next time, I will buy American.

Leica D-Lux 4 Fun

2011-04-07T13:57:00.000-07:00

Trick!

Hello?

Morning Light

Blue Sky

Grocery Store Parking Lot Sky

Just playing around with the Leica D-Lux 4. Such a joy to use. I love it more and more these days.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Small Sensor Camera

2011-03-12T07:16:00.001-08:00

I've been using the Leica D-Lux 4 periodically. I have two other digital cameras that I use, a Sony NEX 5 and a Nikon D90. No question that the latter two cameras have bigger sensors and produce lovely shots. The Leica has its own character though, and I'm still drawn to it, even with its smaller sensor. The lens produces sharp photos and I find the files to be better than many smaller point & shoot cameras I've owned; especially Canon cameras. I did love the Canon G9 camera for it's ergonomics, but the files looked terrible past ISO 400. This Leica camera may not be the most enjoyable to use due to the frustrating Lens Cap issue, but I love the camera due to the files it produces. They just look nice, even with a smaller sensor. The noise is noticeable past ISO 800, but I've gotten useable files from ISO 1600; something I could never do with the three Canon p&s cameras I've owned. (Canon SD800, Canon G9, Canon S95). I think Canon has a crappy noise engine. The S95 is better than the other two I've owned, the G9 was a joy to use, though a brick, and the SD800 was pocketable and had an OV on it. (Something we don't see too much of these days as camera manufacturers skimp to save money.)

The Leica is a solid camera, the most solid built I've used. I wish Leica changed the lens cap design with their new D-Lux 5. It was kind of a bummer when I found out the same annoying cap would be on it. It's a shame. I've owned a few Leica cameras and this one has the most fun factor though, even with the smaller sensor. Once Leica gets the X-1 firmware update out to the public, then the Nikon D90 and the Sony NEX 5 will have competition. I'm hoping they improve the AF and maybe ISO on that camera. I may buy one if they do that. I'll still keep a little D-Lux around though.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

More Ozzy Pictures!

2011-03-05T19:55:00.000-08:00

These were all taken with the Leica D-Lux 4. It's the only Leica camera I have right now.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

More Ozzy Pictures!

2011-02-26T14:10:00.000-08:00

Add caption

Yoga Stretch

Mine?

Well?

Hello?

Vignette Added

Diptych

More pictures take with the Leica D-Lux 4 camera. Enjoy.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Sold My Gear

2011-02-24T07:03:00.000-08:00

I sold my Leica M6, 35mm Summicron ASPH, and 50mm Summicron lenses. I still have my Leica D-Lux 4. I will be moving in a few months and needed to sell it and many other things to fund my move. I won't sell the Leica D-Lux 4 as I want to keep at least one Leica. The other gear sold to help defray moving costs. Once I move, I will be investing again into Leica gear. I just don't know what that will be. I'm bummed out, but I'm happy to be moving to a cheaper state. (This is the reason I haven't posted so much lately.) I will keep shooting with my little D-Lux 4 and eventually will be using other Leica gear here.

This ND filter E39 for Leica M cameras is for sale. I've never used it. Pristine condition. I'm selling it for much less that what I paid. $30 plus shipping. Anyone in USA who uses PayPal want to buy this, then email me. I also have this on Steve Huff's website in the Ads.

Leica M6 with 50mm Summicron attached.

Leica M6 & 50mm Summicron

50mm Summicron

This old Leica M case is still for sale. Anyone want to buy it?

My M6 in a Mr. Zhou case.
Right now, i'm going to go cry in a corner. :(

Leica D-Lux 4: Macro

2011-01-28T15:23:00.000-08:00

I used the 16:9 ratio on the Leica D-Lux 4 for this shot of four Hedgehog Greenies. My dog loves these things.

Green Hedgehog

Orange Hedgehog

Diane's pretty Orchids

I love the orchids my sister has upstairs. They are all coming into bloom. I used the Leica D-Lux 4 for all of these shots. The Hedgehog Greenies are chewable potato starch bones for the dog. He has a bit of a time chewing them due to their odd shape. He's getting faster though. I have to cut back serving these to him, as he's getting a bit chunky like a Hedgehog. LOL!

So, basically I was playing with the Leica D-Lux 4 macro settings on most of these shots. I used 16:9 ratio for the first shot and 4:3 ratio for the rest. ISO was at200.

Square Format & Setting My Camera

2011-01-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

Using Exposure 3 and a high ISO 1600

ISO 1600

ISO 800

ISO 800 Dynamic B&W +1 Contrast

I took a few pictures using the square format on the Leica D-Lux 4 camera. The last two shots I set the "My Camera" feature to B&W dynamic setting with a +1 contrast. I like that I can make my own settings and pick them quickly in the file menu rather than having to set the camera all over again. Awesome.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Chit Chat

2011-01-07T10:12:00.000-08:00

ISO 1600

Macro ISO 800

ISO 1600

Just playing with the Leica D-Lux 4 camera in square 1:1 format. I've been neglecting the little Leica D-Lux 4 as I've been using the Sony NEX 5 lately. Why? Because it has an APS-C sensor in it. But, I have found the Leica D-Lux4 has too many fun options and a sharper rendering of images via the lens. The Sony lenses are almost there, but not quite as sharp. The Sony files need some sharpening at times in Photoshop. Of course, it could me messing up the picture taking with this camera as I do shoot a lot of low light, but the Leica D-Lux 4 is my favorite so far in compact camera, even if it isn't the best in quality past a certain ISO range of ISO 400. (Though I don't know as these were shot pretty high in ISO of 800 and 1600 respectively.) The camera is so much fun to use. I would imagine the D-Lux 5 is a bit better, though they probably play with the way it renders more than any actual improvement.. I know the speed has improved. The Sony is a lovely camera, though not as fast IMO. I wanted to upgrade to a Leica X-1 but the cost versus the slow AF has kept me from doing this. To me, a X1 would be the ultimate camera if it were fast enough and if you had an option to shoot just RAW files. I would like a black X1 with a new firmware update, if that EVER comes. C'mon, Leica! WTF are you doing? Don't you realize the Fuji X100 is fast on your tail?

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4 & Canon S95

2010-12-30T10:02:00.000-08:00

Canon S95 16:9 ratio

Canon S95 1:1 ratio

Canon S95 16:9 ratio

Canon S95 1:1 ratio

Leica D-Lux 4 1:1 ratio

Everyone knows I love the square format on this camera. I tried out a Canon S95, which had all of the same size ratios, including the square format. I figured the S95 would be more pocketable, (it is), and could replace the D-Lux 4, (it can't.) I'm sorry but the S95 feels like a toy compared to the D-Lux 4, and though it may have a slight edge in having less noise at higher ISOs, the D-Lux is more robust in build, a bit faster in AF, and seems to render files more realistic in color. I would imagine the D-Lux 5 is about the same or better for files as the S95 in low-light, but I'm sure it's even faster than the Canon in AF speed. I liked the small size of the S95 though. Oh, and the little feature on it that miniaturizes everything. Kind of cool. I couldn't keep both cameras though, and frankly have a bond with the D-Lux camera. The Leica is much better built. The Canon is more compact. I sent the Canon S95 back. I do like Canon compacts though. It's just that this one actually felt cheaper in build than my old Canon SD800, which has an Optical Viewfinder! Sad, huh? That's the way it is nowadays though. No optical viewfinders on these cameras. Now, if I never owned the Leica, I wouldn't know about its build or wonderful sharp, accurate color files, and would have kept the Canon S95. Let's face it, the retractable lens on the S95 is awesome. No dealing with detachable Lens caps. Quite frankly, Leica could have dealt with this issue in the new D-Lux 5 camera, but didn't. That's my only gripe about this camera! (Though I do wish they had that little miniature feature too, like the Canon S95!) (All of these shots have had either Photoshop or Exposure 3 added. Also, most of these shots were shot in ISO 1600, 800 & 400 range.)

Update: 11-11-11
I was a bit harsh on the little Canon S95. For what it is, it's an awesome camera. The files from it are lovely, though not quite as good in dynamic range as the D-Lux 4. I ended up buying one again, so that my sister would be able to use a digital camera on her trips. Why didn't I just let her use my Leica D-Lux 4 or Sony NEX 5? To tell you the truth, I think she would go nuts trying to use the Leica D-Lux 4 with its annoying lens cap and metering issues. She would keep it in Auto mode, but the cap would drive her nuts. I know, because it drives me nuts. I put up with it because I know what this camera can do for its sensor size. It has a lovely lens. The Canon S95 is more pocketable. I know my sister loves that concept. The D-Lux 4 isn't. The Sony definitely isn't. I knew she wouldn't want to deal with the Sony due to size and the menus. The Canon S95 is perfect for someone who just wants to shoot on Auto, and it still has that manual capability. I like it a lot for the RAW and the Auto settings too. I usually shoot with it in manual though. It has a different file signature than the Leica D-Lux 4. I like it. The Leica has the edge, even with its annoying meter and cap. Still, I was too harsh on the Canon S95. It wasn't too long ago that I adored a Canon SD800 camera. It had a small viewfinder, but it had one. The Canon S95 is about the same size. So, it comes in handy when I just want to have fun with no pressure. It's perfect for that. The Leica on Auto is also fun, but again, the cap...argh!

So, I have both cameras. My sister took some lovely shots with the Canon S95 on her trip back to Connecticut and to Sedona, Arizona. Isn't that what it's all about? HAving a camera with you at all times? DOn't even get me started on the iPhone. LOL!

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Gibson Les Paul 1959 Gold Top Holy Grail Guitar

2010-12-29T20:44:00.000-08:00

It's the famous Gibson Les Paul 1959 model, but in Gold Top. The Holy Grail of guitars. A friend of mine owns this and he did meet Les paul when he was alive, and Les said he remembered this guitar due to a signature on it.

"Famous guitar players of today and yesterday such as jimmy page , eric clapton , mick taylor , slash and so many 100s of other popular rock guitarists have played and cherished the warm tone of this guitar."

Dennis said I could play this guitar if I wanted to, but I just wanted a picture with it for now. he's very generous like that!

Dennis is keeping everything original on this guitar.

See the wear marks from Dennis playing this guitar over the years?

This is one vintage beauty. It's worth about $250,000 to collectors. Les Paul's signature is on it, and he remembers the guitar!

Dennis owns the Gibson Les Paul

Sony NEX 5 with 35mm Summicron ASPH 2.0 Lens

2010-12-12T09:40:00.000-08:00

I have only one shot I took using this lens with the Sony NEX 5. I've been sick, so sorry for the lack of posts. The weather has been cold and wet as well. Did I mention I hate Winter? I don't like getting sick at any rate. For this shot I was just experimenting with a Leica lens on a Sony NEX 5 with an adapter. I have to use manual focus to get the shot. I think this would be better with a landscape, travel or human portrait. Dogs are hard to photograph even with a D-SLR camera. LOL!

I can't wait to try the Leica lenses when the weather is nicer. The only problem I have is with not having a OVF, which is what all of these cameras are missing except for the more expensive M8, M9 or Canon G series. The Leica X-1 can have one added, as can this camera, but it makes the camera not so compact anymore. Plus, the Sony zoom lens makes this camera bigger than necessary. (That, and it's not a Leica lens, which means I shall not show the files here using that. This is a Leica site.) I was trying to find an alternative to using a M8 or M9 due to the expense. (I sold my M8.2 because I just couldn't deal with the files degrading past ISO 640-1250, but also due to Ozzy's knee surgery. The whole digital M thing didn't thrill me either. Maybe I didn't give it enough chance, but my dog's surgery was looming, and I needed to get it done, hence the selling of the M8.2!)

I wanted to use Leica glass on some digital body, a cheaper digital body. Well, it's harder than I thought, but doable. I still prefer the OVF though, as my eyes can't see the glare on a LCD when outside sometimes. I'm sure there will be camera manufacturers out there who will make better cameras for low light, like this Sony, and maybe add an OVF? I won't hold my breath. So, if you can't live without the OVF, you need at least a M8 or a film camera. Or add an EVF. Meanwhile when I feel better I will experiment using the Sony with Leica glass, and also use the D-Lux 4. I don't want another Leica digital M as it's too expensive for what you get. I enjoy using my Nikon better. I love AF, but that's me. Yes, the Nikon is a bit bigger, but I'm so used to it. I think that the most enjoyable Leica experience for me is the little D-Lux camera and the M6 right now. What I do like about the Sony is the low light capabilities. The files are much nicer than what comes from the D-Lux, but the little D-Lux is more compact and a blast to use too. Each camera has it's strengths and weaknesses. When I feel better, I will add more Leica-centric files. Meanwhile, enjoy this picture of my silly little dog.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Autumn Colors

2010-11-21T08:54:00.000-08:00

Went to a farm and photographed some color with the Leica D-Lux 4 camera in 1:1 square ratio mode.

Leica M6: Fuji Sensia Reala Film

2010-11-20T09:27:00.000-08:00

I was playing around with a roll of Fuji Sensia Reala film the other day. I went to Northampton, Massachusetts to photograph color. I was quick about it, only having so much time due to a tight schedule. I wanted to also apply Exposure 3, the different, older slide film filters. Trying to keep track of all the different filters for each file is a task. I don't even know if I did keep track. Let's just say that I tried to make these files look like old film. I even converted a few to black and white. Now, do I like the Fuji film? Hell yes! I love it! I do believe Fuji no longer makes this film. It still makes the regular Reala film.

I loved the odd lighting here and using some weird filter in Exposure 3 made it more bizarre.

I converted this bike path white arrow line to B&W because it was more impressive, and to the point. Oh, shuddup!

I definitely used an old Kodachrome filter here. This color reminds me of Eggleston.

Women racing by in Thorne's Market. I don't know why I love blur so much.

Just a boring wall, but the color is quite enticing to me. I did use an older Kodachrome in this, I do believe.

Okay, so I figured this would look better as a Sepia Tone. Exposure 3 has several. I have no recollection of which one I used. I promise that the next roll, I'll keep track of it.

I want to live in Newbury Comics. It brings out the kid in me. How can you not love this ridiculous Logo?

This dog was a good model for me, even when she barked. Good dog!

Bored and crazy Golden Retriever in front of restaurant in Northampton.

A most photogenic Greyhound waiting for its owner. I feel like Elliott Erwitt!

I converted this to B&W to see the difference. Any comments?

Fender Strat Cop-Off. Love Downtown Sounds Music Store. I bought 2 guitars from them. They are wonderful!

What is it about Mannequins that makes me so happy? Is it because they are the perfect, captive, model?

Wigs and Mannequins! It doesn't get any better than this! I love taking pictures of window displays with reflections of the street in the background.

Once of these days, I want to buy a wig and walk around all day with it on. Maybe do some self-portraits?

Pumpkin? Man in the Moon? What the heck is it? It's another window display with a reflection.

Not quite the greatest picture, but I like the person zooming by and giving the blur effect. Then again, it could be shit.

Paul & Elizabeth's Restaurant. Love the lighting in this place. It's always fantastic.

The highlight of the day was meeting this Pit Bull Mix puppy named "Sampson". He was so adorable.

I added some old Kodachrome filter to this, because the actual color of this Scooter is bright yellow. Still, this filter makes this photo look like an old Kodachrome slide that didn't quite get the colors right.

This is close to what the Scooter actually looked like, and I prefer the one above this, though the color is wrong.

This is definitely not the correct Scooter color, but I still like the old Kodachrome film look.

Light & shadow.

Light and shadow. People and dogs.

It's the Stay Puff Ghostbusters Marshmallow dude. Another window scene with reflection in glass.

Iris Photo. A photographer's heaven.

Curvy street.

Woman walking on curvy street.

Graffiti

This is inside Thorne's Market. I did use an older Kodachrome filter for this picture.

Now, what was the point of shooting this film? I was sick of digital and every once in a while I need to break loose and shoot film. I have a warm, fuzzy feeling about film, and I can't give it up. Even if it's costly, and a pain in the ass to have processed. Well, not too much of a pain. I send my film to Iris Photo in Northampton, Massachusetts. CVS sucks, so will never bring it there again. I like supporting the smaller camera store. (I may try Costco for its cheapness too).If Iris Photo were to shut down, I would surely cry and then believe that film is quite dead. If that happens, I think I'll give up on photography. It will just be too painful to shoot only digital. Maybe I don't shoot a lot of film, but I enjoy it when I do. How about you? I also get quite excited about the negatives coming in the mail. Like a kid excited. Digital is fun, and I love it, but film is where it's at, Baby!

Why shoot color negative film? Because it's C-41 process, and can go to any lab, be put on CD, and converted to B&W or use the Exposure 3 filters on the files. Kodak doesn't make Kodachrome 64 anymore, and I want to try and replicate it. I may try the Kodachrome 200 slide film, though it just isn't the same. Okay, I'm done ranting.

Leica D-Lux 4 and Alien Skin

2010-11-11T18:01:00.000-08:00

Muzzle
Autochrome Vignette Filter

Ozzy Mug
Color Toning Sepia Ilford HP5+ Filter

Ozzy on Stairs
Kodachrome Filter (Don't remember which one)

Horse & Rider

Cabin

Technicolor Process 4 Filter

Geissler's
I used Exposure 3 Kodachrome 35mm 1936-1962 Vintage Filter

I have been using the Leica D-Lux 4 a lot lately, because I love the colors that come out of the camera. I also adore the square format. I'm sure you read this in previous posts, but I do! Here are some samples of photos I've taken and then added Alien Skin Exposure 3 software to the files. What a lovely combination.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

LFI Featured Photographers

2010-11-11T17:46:00.000-08:00

I emailed a LFI featured photographer about his opinion on the Leica M9 as I'm on the fence about getting one. I've been on the fence for a while due to all of the sensor, dust and focusing problems. I basically asked Johannes Barthelmes through a simple email. I appreciate his answering me quickly and honestly. He is a Leica M9 fan. His work is absolutely beautiful. He is featured in the November 2010 issue. This is what he had to say:

"Dear Elaine,

thank you for your friendly words !

I love the M9, it is in my opinion the best camera for my kind of work. After ISO 800 it is not the best, but most of my work is ISO 100 - 400 with film or ISO 320 digital, so this is not a problem to me.

I like both ways, digital and film. I prefere the film-look, but i work on the digital file to got an film touch.

On some of my pics even i can not see if it came out of my M7 or my M9.

Last months i work more with my M9 than with my M7...

The DNG (RAW) of the leica and the prints on paper look always much more charming than all the others i know.

I am too working with a Mamiya 645 PRO TL, a Hasselblad 501 CM, sometimes with an CANON EOS 5D, but really comfortable and satisfied with the result of digital cameras i'm only with leica M9 and with my older leica M8-pics...

The M8 was too circuitously with the filters and so on and 10 MP had not been enough in some cases...

Jazz-music and photography are in a certain way very closed...

Have a wonderful time,

best regards,

Johannes"

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I also asked Daniel Josefsohn what he used for equipment since using the Leica S2 was his first digital camera. He stated:

"...i´m on a job in Ethiopia, africa right now >>> so my mail will be short.... internet suck here !!

i used 2 Fuji GA 645 ZI ( and love them still )

all the best
daniel"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I loved Daniel's S2 stuff. He is also in the November 2010 issue of LFI magazine.

The Invisible Photographer Asia Leica M9 Review

2010-11-11T09:04:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd give a link to a Leica M9 review from a guy in Asia. I found it interesting. Maybe you will too. "The Invisible Photographer Asia"

My "365 Days of Ozzy" Book by Blurb

2010-11-06T09:13:00.000-07:00

365 Days Of Ozzy by Elaine Dudzinski | Make Your Own Book

I just finished compiling my photo book on Ozzy. I did it through Blurb, because they are the only ones I found that could do a book over 300 pages long. There were certainly others with better quality, but I needed a mock book to show people. I'm going to put together a better quality book, but with less pictures. A kind of "best of the best" in this project. I may even do another project of my other 365 projects. Hell, I have 3 of them. This book has the full 365 days project. One picture per page. There are several pictures in here using the Leica M8.2 and Leica D-Lux 4 camera.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Wide-Angle and Macro Mode

2010-11-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

B&W Ozzy

Calotype

I was playing around with the Leica D-Lux 4 and taking pictures of my dog as close as possible, which required me to switch to macro mode. Then I applied Exposure 3 filters. I used a Calotype and B&W filter. I love Exposure 3! I also love the wide-angle and macro mode on this camera.

Leica M6: Test roll of Ilford XP2 film

2010-11-03T15:44:00.000-07:00

Booklink Book Store

Toddler

Violin

Violinist

Window

Jewelry Kiosk

Inside Thorne's Market

Whirl

Busy Day

People on Main Street

Main Street in Northampton

Outside Storage

Stairs in Thorne's Market

Sister in Sunglasses

Sister Posing For Me

Caminito Not Open!

Sister

Sister Acting Goofy

Help With Produce

Produce

Pipe & Brick

Mannequin Heads

Wigs

Ivy

Overgrowth

Dog Seeks Coffee Cup

Corgis

Candy

Starbucks

Blur

I was playing around with a roll of Ilford XP@ ISO 400 film. It's a C-41 process, which I dropped off at my usual photo place, (Iris Photo in Northampton, Massachusetts.) I actually like the film a lot. It's a bit contrasty, which I like. It's not the same as Tri-X, but I think it's a lovely film. Black and white film is my favorite to use in a camera. I know I can change any color picture, including film, into black and white using Photoshop, or the Exposure 3 plug-in filters, but the tones aren't quite the same. I'm getting used to the M6 camera. I fumbled again trying to load it, because I just didn't trust that the film would advance and instead the film tore in front of me. It's what I get for watching the film advance. Now I will trust that it advances while watching the little wind up wheel move.

The only other issue I have is that I want to shoot both digital and film on the same day, and that can be a pain to carry two cameras. So, I must choose between digital and film for any particular day. I'm so used to digital, that it's hard to give up those instant results. I'm like an addict. It's a slow process going into reverse, to the old days of film, and wondering what the pictures will look like once they are developed. It's exciting, but I must have patience. Since I'm slowly shooting more film with this wonderful little rangefinder, I may as well start buying LP records again. LOL! I'm missing the old days!

Leica M6 & Fuji Superia Reala Film

2010-10-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

I took the M6 out to shoot some film, and I had to slow down the thought process a bit. Still, I didn't slow it down enough and think it through, because many of these shots to me are boring. Now, shooting digital, I would fire away and keep the good shots. With film, I have to slow down to think each shot through, using manual everything. Not a big deal, but there are times when I'm just not in the zone. Sometimes I think film isn't for me. While I'm shooting it I feel nostalgic, and enjoy the process, even if I am rusty at it. I definitely don't burn though the roll, even when this was another practice roll for me. Having not shot with film with consistency, I feel I need to practice a lot. It's funny, because I grew up with film.

One thing I love is how the M6 feels in my hand compared to the M8.2, which was a bit thicker, and heavier. Not that the M8.2 was a beast, but it's a different feeling. The M6 does feel nice in my hands, even if I'm not a pro at using it yet. I'm used to older Nikon film cameras, and now, the digital versions. This rangefinder business is new to me as of this year. I dabbled, but never really took the "Leica Plunge", as it was an expensive one. I think if you want to get the Leica experience though, it's best with the film cameras, more so than the digital variety. Yes, I know! Film is kind of old news to many people these days. It's really a shame. I love digital, and the instant results I can see on my computer, but the Leica experience to me is really in film.

Now, who knows. Maybe if I were to play with a M9 for a few months I would feel differently. What I do know is that all of the pros I admire, they used Leica film cameras back in the old days, and I want to experience what they did. This seems a more authentic experience than the digital one.

An interesting note: A man stopped me on the street and was very pleased to see me with a Leica camera. He knew the model and everything. Well, come to find out he worked for Kodak for 20 years. He was very talkative, like he found an old film buddy when he saw me. We talked about older cameras and digital. He now shoots with a Canon S95. (I like the Canon S95, but that says something about a guy who used to work for a major film company shooting only digital now! If he gives up on film, what the hell am I doing still shooting it. Thing is, I think he was feeling a bit sad in his choice of only shooting digital. His voice gave away that sadness. Maybe he will start shooting film again? Hey! That would be great. Oh, and I love that S95 he was talking about too. it's a great camera.)

Pumpkins at a farm in Southwick, Massachusetts.

The Brick in Northampton, Massachusetts

Bicycle

Sylvester's

Alley

Stencils on Brick

Main Street

People

Clothing Store

Scooter

Photo Booth

Big Slices

I shot a roll of Fuji Superia Reala ISO 100 film the other day through the Leica M6 and 50mm Summicron. I went to Northampton, Massachusetts one day. The roll also includes when my sister and I went to a local farm for pumpkins. I think the Reala film has a green cast to it. I touched it up a bit in Photoshop. I don't know if that's how Fuji is or if that's how the local Photo place developed it. I had them do some low rez scans for me.

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy Pictures

2010-10-19T15:11:00.001-07:00

The 365 shot of the day that was chosen.

All of the extras...

Sometimes it's hard to get a good picture of Ozzy due to his size and the ISO being set so high. After ISO 400 the file degrades rather quickly. Working with those limitations, I still got a few good shots.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy Pictures

2010-10-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

354/365

The shot of the day!

The extra Leica photos from this day.

I was using the wide-angle and macro on the Leica D-Lux 4 for a few of these shots. I love how the camera captures my dog. It's not as sophisticated as my Nikon D90, but it does shoot wide and macro. It's fun to use too.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Pictures of Ozzy

2010-10-11T20:17:00.000-07:00

This was my first choice for 10-11-10.

This was my second choice for 10-11-10.

This was my first choice shot for 10-10-10.

This was my second choice shot for 10-10-10.

I was playing with light & shadow again. For some reason the Leica D-Lux makes extremes in light & shadow look like art. The Leica D-Lux 4 is one fun camera to use. I can't imagine what the D-Lux 5 with extended zoom (to 90mm), will be like!

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: More Ozzy Pictures

2010-10-06T17:57:00.001-07:00

This was chosen for my project.

This was also chosen for my project.

These are all of the extras.

I've been playing around with the Leica D-Lux 4, using it on my 365 project. I've been taking pictures of my dog Ozzy for almost one year. I've used the Canon G9, Nikon D80, Nikon D90, Leica M8.2 and also this Leica D-Lux 4 camera to do this project. I now only fluctuate between the D-Lux 4 and D90 camera.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: More Ozzy Pictures

2010-10-02T18:41:00.000-07:00

My first choice for my project today.

Wait! Not yet!

Waiting for Kix cereal.

I like this one.

This is one of my favorite shots of the day, though not first choice.

Playing with the light & shadows was fun.

The light was harsh this morning.

I was playing around with the Leica D-Lux 4 camera in square 1:1 ratio format. I had to take a picture of the day of my dog Ozzy.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Puggy

2010-10-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

Just playing with the macro feature along with square 1:1 ratio format on the Leica D-lux 4 camera.

Leica D-Lux 4: 365 Pictures

2010-09-28T19:20:00.001-07:00

These are pictures that made it to the 365 project.

Leica D-Lux 4: Me & Mona

2010-09-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

My friend Ramona came down for my birthday and my sister took a picture of us using the Leica D-Lux 4. I set the camera on Auto and handed it to her. This is the result.

Photo by my sister Diane.

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy Pictures

2010-09-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

Wet Ozzy Toes

Soul

Puffy

Wet Paws

Light & Shadow

Look at all the crap in the background of this photo. LOL!

Chin Up!

Stealth

I take a lot of pictures of my dog Ozzy for my 365 project. Inevitably, I have extras. I fluctuate between the Leica D-Lux 4 camera and the Nikon D90. I love using the little D-Lux 4. I sold my M8.2 camera, to help offset the cost of some bills and my dog's surgery. I really would rather have the full frame M9, but being that prices are so high, I'm waiting a bit. Who knows? Something new could come around the corner and I could switch brands and this blog could end. LOL! Seriously, the M8.2 didn't fit me for some odd reason. (I never owned such an expensive camera before.)

I like all different types and brands of cameras. I liked the M8.2 camera, though I didn't love it. It was a lovely camera, and produced awesome files. I think the Nikon D90 is equal to it, but then the D90 surpasses the M8.2 at higher ISO settings. That really bothered me. Not having AF at times also bothered me. The M8.2 was easier on my neck to carry around though. That's due to its lenses. The Nikon cameras don't have small lenses. LOL!

I originally wanted the M9 though, and I can't help but feel I settled when I bought the M8.2 camera. I know the quality is much nicer than the M8 (or even some earlier M9s right now.) It's the sweet spot, but it isn't full frame. I really want a full frame camera. I bought the Leica M6 while I waited 6 months for the M9 to be in stock. I love film but feel that the labs are so few and far between that it's such a hassle to find a good one. Costly as well. As for the M9, by the time I got the call that mine was in at a certain dealer's shop, it was too late. I had to pay out money to other things. One day I'd like to own another Leica M digital rangefinder, but improvements have to be made for me to hand over that much cash. I'm not a rich Doctor or Lawyer. I'm retired right now.Sure, I could buy the M9 if I want to drain my account, but I'd be hurting financially for what I feel is a camera that only is equal to Canon or Nikon in the low ISO range. What's better are the Leica lenses, not so much the digital body. The Leica lenses are the thing. I still have two lenses left. I use them on my M6 film camera. The body is easier to carry around. A Nikon with a zoom lens on it can be pretty big. So, the rangefinder wins points for compactness. The Leica D-Lux 4, (and now D-Lux 5) may lack some IQ compared to a more expensive Leica X-1, M8, M8.2 or M9, but it is compact. Plus, the files are pretty fantastic.

So I take a zillion pictures of my dog with this little D-Lux 4 camera. My Nikon D90 with prime lenses is my main camera. I use the Leica D-Lux 4 for fun. I've seen the D-Lux 5 and like that too. I'm not a pro photographer and my quest for perfecting the pixels really can get annoying. I want the best quality file, but not being a pro, I really don't need a pro camera. Still...you hobbyists know how it is. I want my pictures to look fantastic. Digital cameras have come a long way to giving us a pro-quality file. So, we are almost there.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy as Art

2010-09-19T15:12:00.001-07:00

Ozzy doing his "crop circles". Now he has become one with the light and shadow scene. This was my pic of the day.

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

My second favorite of the day. He is almost part of the light and shadow art here.

Ozzy & three bones surfing on the beam of light.

Ozzy as part of his environment.

Ozzy ignores the camera and blends in with the shadows.

Ozzy with Three Bones

Leica D-Lux 4: More Ozzy

2010-09-17T14:42:00.001-07:00

The one thing I love about the little Leica D-Lux 4 is that I can shoot wide-angle. I can certainly do that if I change the lens on my D90, but it's so much easier to use the little camera, though at high ISO the quality isn't as nice as the Nikon. Still, I love using the D-Lux 4 for its fun factor. The only thing it's missing is the optical viewfinder, and as I get older my eyes don't quite see things close-up without glasses anymore. It's hard to see the little red light in the meter that shows I'm close to center. All of you older, blinder folks will understand what I'm saying. LOL! If you still have perfect eye sight, then good for you. I don't! LOL! I count on the AF, which is quite nice. I actually like it better than the Nikon D90 at times. It's faster in shutter response than my Canon G9. My biggest complaint about the G9 is the slow shutter lag. This Leica doesn't seem to have it like other cameras. Well, at least I haven't noticed it. It's not as fast as the D90, but much faster than some P&S cameras I've owned. I've seen some lovely files come out of this camera by other people who own it. I'm photographing my dog mostly right now due to the 365 project. That project will be coming to an end soon. Then it's off to do another project. I look forward to photographing stationary objects. LOL!

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Today's 365 project picture.

Light Bulb Head

Wide-Angle Close. Ozzy doesn't like the camera one inch away from him LOL!

60 Watt Bulb

Ozzy stretching. Notice the paws.

Another distorted wide-angle shot. I don't know why these types of shots amuse me, but they do. The more distorted, the better.

Ozzy with junkie background. LOL!

Lie Down!

He looks guilty.

Sunny Day

Favoring the leg.

Ralph Gibson Book

2010-09-16T20:17:00.001-07:00

I found this book used online at Alibris Books. It's a volume with over 700 pages of Ralph Gibson's work, called Deus Ex Machina, and published by Taschen. Ralph Gibson used Leica cameras throughout most of his 40 plus years as a photographer. His vision of seeing is something that I would like to emulate and improve upon. I was very lucky to find this in such great condition as it's out of print. The second and third copy at Alibris is well over 100 bucks! Taschen and Phaidon publish some lovely photography books.

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy

2010-09-16T09:44:00.001-07:00

I was playing with the Leica D-Lux 4 the last few days. I sold my Leica M8.2 to pay off Ozzy's surgery bills. I still have the D-Lux 4, the Leica M6 and two Leica lenses. Once things get settled I may upgrade to a M9 or get another M8.2. Not certain. It's not like I was in love with the M8.2, but I did enjoy the files that came out of it on occasion. I think that has more to do with the superb lenses than the digital camera body itself though. If there was a way to put my M lenses on my Nikon D90, I'd do it. I think there is a way to put Leica R lenses on it, but I don't have any R lenses. LOL!

Meanwhile, I have been using the Leica D-Lux 4 as using the Nikon D90 all the time with the 50mm lens is becoming kind of dull for me. I've thought of getting the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 lens to have some variety, but am holding off on that purchase. I'm using the Leica D-Lux 4 camera at its widest angle instead. The files may not be as clean, but they'll suffice. I like the quality of file that comes out of the D-Lux 4. If Leica made a small p&s with a fast zoom lens and a higher IQ, maybe even higher than the X-1, I'd bet many people would jump on it. But then they'd lose money on their used M8s and new M9 cameras. Oh well.

Two Bones

Close-Up

Just me and my shadow...

Still favoring that back leg.

In your face!

Playing with light & shadow.

More playing with light & shadow.

Close-Up

The light is very bright in the morning when I shoot, so I have to embrace the lights and darks. I try not to blow out the highlights, but it's hard to do in such contrasty situations. I'm still quite pleased with the results.

I do miss the M8.2, though I haven't been using it much. It's easier to use the Nikon D90 for the Ozzy project. For all non-moving subjects, it was much more fun and creative to use the Leica camera. I don't know why that is either. It's certainly not easier. LOL! There's just something about the feel of the camera and those lovely lenses. Even the little D-Lux 4 camera has a wonderful body construction. It doesn't feel cheap. My Canon G9 is similar, but not as solid. I do like the Canon G9 for it's size though. It is big enough that I won't drop it, yet small enough to bother carrying it. The D-Lux 4 can be a tad slippery at times, even with the wrist strap on. There is something about the files though. I love them. Not as much as the M8.2, but it has a different signature. The Canon has a nice signature to it also. I know that sounds odd, but I got some great pictures out of that little bugger. I'm glad I still have it and use it!

Meanwhile, my dog is healing. That little shit cost me a bundle at the Vet's Office with his surgery, pills, and yearly visit. Oh well. He can't be replaced. A camera certainly can. Ozzy is a special dog. He's kind of like the Leica camera. He is as precious as that. It's all about his outlook on life, and attitude. I've never met or owned a dog quite like him. Strange too, because I've owned so many dogs over the years, and I've always thought that each one was the best one, until the next one came along. I don't think there could possibly be a dog to top Ozzy in character, humor, zen, playfulness, and genuinely angelic. I'm so glad I decided, (though a bit late- two months after I got him) to start a 365 project on him. I wish I did it sooner, but at least he was a puppy when I started it!

As for the contrasty, light&shadow pictures, I'm very happy with them. Especially after reading the used book I just got on Richard Gibson! Now all I want to do is photograph Ozzy in very contrasty situations. LOL!

You can keep track of my Ozzy project HERE on Flickr or HERE on ZENDOG Blog. I alos have the first 365 days of this project on 365Project Website.

Leica D-Lux 4: On the Trail

2010-08-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

I brought the Leica D-Lux 4 out on the hiking trails in Granby, Connecticut. The camera was small enough to fit in my little fanny pack. The only annoyance I found is that damn string attached to the lens cap. That's coming off the camera today. I don't mind carrying a lens cap as I take pictures. I'm so used to doing that with a D-SLR/SLR camera. Due to the humidity, I did notice some condensation inside the lens. It was very humid out that day.

The camera performed flawlessly. I do wish it had an optical viewfinder. I had a tough time seeing the screen sometimes. I know I can get the external viewfinder for this camera, but don't know that it's worth spending a lot of cash for it. (I hear it's expensive.) I'll deal with the LCD in order to save my cash. Thanks.

The camera produced some lovely files, despite my fumbling around in manual mode. LOL! The M8.2 would have done better, but the size convenience factor of the D-Lux 4 made it the better choice on hike during this hot & muggy weather. Now, if this were Fall, I'd have brought the M8.2 camera.

My favorite shot of the day.

Reflection on the water.

The brook. I've never been on this part of the trail. I will be coming back here again.

This was just amazing to look at. Very surreal.

Inside the shack on the trail. Kind of creepy. I used the flash on this photo. Leica flash seemed kind of weak. I will have to try it out again, but at night. I'm not a fan of camera flash. I don't know much about flash photography.

Barbara's feet. Notice the paw prints? Someone's dog just swam here and we missed it.

Lily Pads.

Barbara on the bridge.

Leica D-Lux 4: Ozzy Goes To The Vet

2010-08-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

"I have a mean Mommy."

"I won't go to the vet quietly."

I grabbed the Leica D-Lux 4 for the car interior shots of Ozzy today. Ozzy went to the Vet today for X-Rays of his hips and knees. The poor little guy has a luxating patella, which is a floating knee cap. I would hear it pop now and again. Well, between his x-rays and his surgery, and what i just spent on his yearly shots, this little dude is going to put me in a bit of debt. i kick myself for not getting the dog insurance. At any rate, I used the Leica to grab a quick shot of his expression on his face. He's not a happy camper and he trembled the whole time at the vet. I'm going for a short hike to take my mind off him going under anesthesia.

I was having a bit of a stupid moment when trying to meter in the car. Without my reading glasses on, I had a bit of trouble centering the meter. I think I was just a bit nervous about my dog going to the vet. The D-Lux 4 is a gem of a camera, and I especially love the wide angle on it. What I don't like is the noise at anything higher than ISO 200. There is a definite difference between the quality of file in the M8.2 and this little camera. Still, I love the camera. A little noise can be reminiscent of film. LOL!