Updates from LeicaLand (Sorry it’s late coming out) –
(UPDATE) Light Lens Lab 35mm f/2 “Apochromatic” (M) – I’ve received my copy of this lens to review. I’ll make a YouTube review as soon as I get a chance to test it. First impressions? Beautifully made and I love the soft stop at 0.7m.(Save 5% on LLL (and other brands), see discount codes).
(UPDATE) Mandler 50mm f.1.4 Pre-ASPH “E46” – You might have already seen the YouTube video. This lens might have set a new world record for fastest sell out time! (I’ll talk more about it below but if you want one you can get them here – just restocked!)
(UPDATE) Voigtlander APO-Lanthar 90mm f4 “Close Focus” VM (M) – I’ve been testing this lens on various cameras so look out for a YouTube review soon. First impressions? Super sharp, nice size, great performer! (If you’re based in the UK you can find this lens at Robert White once available).
Want to autofocus your Leica M lenses?
I’ve been experimenting with a few options to allow me to autofocus my existing Leica M mount lenses. First I tried the Megadap adapter on a Canon mirrorless camera (See YouTube video) and then I used a TechArt adapter (version II) on a Nikon Zf (latest YouTube video). If you use Sony cameras you can also get a TechArt M lens adapter for Sony bodies.
Instant sell out lens
If you saw my recent Mandler 50mm f1.4 “E46” YouTube video you’l know that I made an effort to warn viewers in the intro of the video that it would likely sell out in the first 24 hours (based on how fast their Mandler 35mm f2 KOB replica sold out).
I could never have anticipated the lens selling out in UNDER A MINUTE! To be exact, the black aluminium copy sold out instantly and the more premium silver brass version sold out within around 20 minutes.
This lead to a fair bit of upset and lots of comments and messages as many of you missed out. The good news is I’ve been working with Mandler and today they’ve resisted the lens and as I understand will accept unlimited orders, even if there is a slight delay in shipping it to you. I suggested that this was better than another batch selling out instantly.
If you want the black or silver version of their new Leica 50mm f1.4 Pre-ASPH replica lens visit the Mandler website. For around £275 this lens offers incredible value as a Leica alternative. They have a good setup with tracked free shipping and no import fees on receipt of the lens.
Once my final version of the lens arrives I’ll make a follow up video for YouTube (with more side by side testing to the Leica original that it’s based on).
August was a quieter month after a hectic July and teaching the Leica workshop in Cannes, France. The month started in Spain when I flew out to join my family on their summer holiday. No travel after that meant in theory more time for new Blog posts, Flickr uploads, Instagram and Substack. Instead I was down my latest rabbit hole – trying to improve my YouTube videos.
I’m not sure if it’s luck or effort, but to date, my latest upload has been my best performer (views per hour), of the 600+ videos I’ve published. Whether I can repeat the success we shall see. Wish me luck! (My YouTube goal is to hit 50,000 subscribers by December so if you’re not yet subscribed and would like to help Subscribe Here. Thanks!)
A shorter newsletter today but coming up – photos, links and the latest YouTube videos.
Spain family holiday
This was a family holiday so I didn’t take a tonne of photos. Below is one of my favourites and I still need to develop the film images. (See this YouTube video for more from Spain).
It’s that time of year again where I need to get organised and design my annual photobooks to be printed. Last year I printed 30 of each design and they all sold so I’ll likely do the same this year.
If you’re interested in my new photobooks and don’t want to miss out you can receive updates here. I’ve got prints too.
Knowing that I was going to have a month in the UK I set about to try to find some new faces to work with. I found Wiktoria and we had two shoots within a space of a week. You might recognise her from my latest YouTube video cover photo.
I shared some BTS videos onPatreon from both sessions if you want to see how I go about making this images. Below are a few sample images (the usual, RAW files + MrLeica preset added) and to learn how to find models for free check out my eBooks.
If you’re not aware, all of my Leica workshops are on a request basis. Photographers write to me and ask if they can they join me for a day or two and we go from there. You can check my availability here.
My local workshops are in London but over the last 12 months I’ve ran 1:1 workshops in France, The Netherlands, Spain, Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic and Texas. Of those, my most visited cities are Budapest and Gdansk.
A French student (and Patreon) who joined me in London last year got in touch to ask if we could meet in Gdansk for a 2-day workshop in October. Of course I said yes. After booking my flights I helped him find suitable accommodation as I know the city well (after 50? visits). Now I just need to book the models.
Overseas workshops – Pricing?
Are overseas workshops more expensive? Not really. The day rate is the same as listed here for London but I just ask for a contribution towards my expenses on top. Thanks to London living costs, if you don’t live in the UK it’s likely cheaper to meet in Gdansk or Budapest compared to London.
I love teaching and it always feels more worthwhile when I receive Workshop Testimonials after the day. Here are a few photos from previous Gdansk workshops.
Workshops in Europe
Get in touch if you’re planning to visit Europe and want to arrange a day together. Check my availability
Zoom calls let me assist photographers around the world remotely. Whether it’s new cameras/ lenses, portrait lighting techniques or portfolio reviews I can help. Read the Zoom testimonials and check my availability.
Complete the survey to register your interest in a MrLeica workshop near you.
Dubai Workshop, 2022
Future travel plans
Here are my provisional travel plans. Maybe I’m coming to a city near you or somewhere you’d like to visit. Feel free to contact me to organise a workshop.
SEPTEMBER 2026
Gdansk – Patreon visits from the US so a mini-gathering
Lenses – See all lens reviews. I’m testing a few I can’t mention yet
Editing with presets – All my images are RAW + LR preset
New digital camera
After being highly tempted by the Leica M EV1 I ended up going for a better value proposition. It’s not a Leica but the photos look just as nice to my eyes. See the YouTube reveal if you’ve not seen it. Full article to follow when I’ve had time to use it more.
Yesterday Mandler announced the launch date of their new Leica Summilux 50mm f1.4 Pre-ASPH v3 remake. The clock is ticking, the count down has begun. 20th September is the day.
This lens will likely sell out immediately (like last time) so I’ll aim to post a YouTube video and blog notification on that day so you are notified and can grab one if you wish. Subscribe to the blog and subscribe on YouTube for the best chance of seeing my reminder.
Mandler? What’s all the fuss about? It’s the fact that you can buy a brand new replica of Leica lens legend from only £272 ($368) and that’s with peace of mind free tracked shipping + no import fees.
It’s no surprise that their first lens sold out immediately (and every new batch after that for months). If you missed the first lens, this is a remake of the famous Leica Summicron 35mm f2 v4 “King of Bokeh”. Brilliant little lens! Check out the Mandler official site for more details.
I’m a failed plate spinner. The “film plate” is on the floor but I hope to get back to it soon. Until I get time to develop I will continue to shoot film along side my digital cameras.
If you want more content you can also follow me on Substack. I post when I can, both short form and occasional long form articles.
Coming up next month..
We have the newMandler 50mm f1.4 arriving in less than 3 weeks. After what feels like many months of testing prototypes for them I’ll be happy to finally share the results.
Before that, I have another new Leica M lens to share with you plus a video that is a bit different from my usual. (A company reached out and asked if I would review their product and I said no, twice. On their third request I saw how it could be a really interesting topic for photographers so I agreed). Stay tuned for that!
More videos are planned but I’m trying to find new models first.
YouTube video – spotlight
The YouTube video coming this week is a new(ish) Leica M lens that will help you get a more cinematic look from any camera. I’ll let you guess which lens!
(NEW) Light Lens Lab 35mm f/2 “Apochromatic” (M) – Light Lens Lab are known for their remakes of classic lenses but this is their first modern high performance lens. Inspired by the premium Leica Summicron-M 35mm f2 APO lens, this is the first release from their planned APO line of lenses. If you like maximum performance at lower prices this might be one for you! (Save 5% on LLL (and other brands), see discount codes).
(UPDATE) Mandler 50mm f.1.4 Pre-ASPH “E46” – Following their Mandler 35mm f2(a Leica Summicron 35mm f2 v4 King of Bokeh remake), they are back with perhaps an even more exciting lens. This is a Leica Summilux 50mm f1.4 Pre-ASPH v3 Leica remake (but it now focuses down to 0.5m). After helping test their prototype lens I’ve now received the final production version. I’ll post the YouTube video as soon as the lens becomes available and a blog post with some full res sample images soon after. It’ll likely sell out instantly again so subscribe to the newsletter to be notified. Expected late August/ early September*
(UPDATE) Voigtlander APO-Lanthar 90mm f4 “Close Focus” VM (M) – Another exciting new release from Voigtlander. This lens competes with the Leica Macro-Elmar 90mm f4 that I used to own, which also has the close focus option. Still waiting for my test lens to arrive.Expected to be soon.(If you’re based in the UK you can find this lens at Robert White once available).
Leica M EV1-P?
If you saw my recent YouTube video on the Leica M EV1 I mentioned that I’m waiting for the Leica M EV1-P (assuming that Leica follow the usual Leica M camera release of standard model with red dot and plain top plate followed by “P” variant with no red dot and Leica script on the top plate). P variants of all cameras look so much nicer! I’m thinking Leica Q-P, my converted M10-P and the current M11-P for example.
Some viewers pointed out that maybe Leica will skip the M EV1-P and jump straight to the Leica Ev2, as the current camera needs more than just a face lift.
When Leica release the M12 and later Ev2 (or Ev1-P) the EV1 prices should then start to fall. It’s far from perfect but for specific user needs it can tick a lot of boxes. I could definitely be tempted at a lower price point.
What’s your excuse? If you’re like me, you need to find a list of excuses before allowing yourself to buy a new camera. My excuses to look at the EV1 were smaller and lighter than SL series cameras plus higher resolution sensor for scanning medium format film. (See last night’s video to see me go through five different film scanners in search of the perfect setup).
After deciding against spending a silly amount of money on a used Leica EV1 (and trading in some of my other cameras), I’m now looking at better value options.
July started with me still in the Czech Republic where I extended my trip following a Leica workshop I ran in Prague. I’m not sure if it was the extreme heat or I caught something on the plane home but something wiped me out for a week as soon as I got back to the UK.
Being self employed I don’t have time to be sick but I just tried to do anything than didn’t involve going out or needing my voice. I did manage a few new Blog posts, uploads to Flickr, a few Instagram posts and even a long form Substack article. I’ll share some links below together with the latest YouTube videos.
July travel
I’d not planned to travel for most of July as the UK weather is normally better so I arrange shoots in London and try to cycle most days. I received a last minute Leica workshop request to teach a fellow Leica photographer on a yacht in Egypt. It sounded both amazing and unbelievable at the same time but we settled on meeting in France instead as the logistics would be much easier. More on that below.
July ended in Spain as I flew out to join my family (brother’s family plus Mum) on their summer holiday. Not a photo trip but I took a few cameras. Here is a sample photo from one of our hikes. (I hope I captured something similar on film!) –
If you missed previous newsletters I bought a printer for home use. I still need to finish the detailed blog post but the next goal is to get organised and start to think about this year’s photobooks.
It seems most of you prefer my model photobooks to individual prints as the last set of books mostly sold out with the first month last year. In the past I sold budget friendly A5 zine books but after buying a printer, I’m now inspired to make something a bit nicer for 2026.
Currently, i’m looking to make small magazine size books (bigger than A5, smaller than A4) so they are still cost effective to ship overseas. The plan is my usual model photography books (2 designs in mind) plus my passion project Gdansk, Poland (second edition) book. (Bigger with additional images to the original).
If you’re interested in my next photobooks you can receive updates as I’ll order a limited quantity from the print house. You can also find my prints below –
Large prints(Limited prints, run of 10 for each size)
As I was still in the Czech Republic at the start of July (with Patreon friend Tobi) here are a few more model shots from the trip. I still need to develop my film. (See my Travel ebook for how I pack for these trips if interested).
Always wanted to try model photography? Start today with my eBooks!
UK Shoot (#1)
I don’t shoot with UK models so much these days (unless I’m teaching a Leica workshop in London). Since moving from Coventry down towards London some years ago I lost my model friend network. Now I tend to just work when I’m in the UK and shoot more when I’m overseas.
That said.. the benefit of UK shoots is I don’t need to fly so I can carry more gear. This means being able to use bigger lights or light modifiers, bigger heavier lenses, bigger bulkier film cameras and the like. During the summer months we often have sunlight for shooting so I arranged a few model sessions in July to test some new lighting gear ahead of the planned YouTube video.
The first photoshoot was a location shoot with Natalie who I found on Instagram. You can see the full BTS video on Patreon but below are a few sample images. (You might recognise these from the Zhiyun X200 LED video).
UK Shoot (#2)
The second model shoot was in London and I met up with model friend Justina who’d just returned from a 3-year break. It was great to catchup and again I was testing lights for YouTube (and lenses.. the usual!)
Again you can see the full BTS video on Patreon and below are a few sample images. (You might recognise these from the Zhiyun X200 LED video).
UK Shoot (#3)
For the third shoot it was just lucky timing. A model contact from Budapest was in London visiting for a few days with her sister so I met them and spend a few hours shooting with Bori.
The BTS video is on Patreon and you probably recognise her from recent videos and the cover of the latest video. Here are a few sample images (the usual, RAW files + MrLeica preset added). I took a few photos of both of them before they left to fly home and the shot I posted to Flickr proved very popular.
So as I mentioned in the intro, the original plan was for me to meet my fellow Leica photographer student on a Yacht in Egypt (as requested) but we thought South France would be a lot easier logistically.
After his Egypt trip, my student arrived to Cannes and I flew there to meet him. He knew the city well so he arranged my accommodation in the centre (just off Promenade de la Croisette if you know it) and a car came to pick me up from the airport.
When I arrived to Cannes I was instantly overwhelmed by the beauty of the place. Beautiful people in beautiful clothes surrounded by beautiful “stuff”. Luxury yacht, super cars, expensive hotels and boutique shops. Everyone looked like a model and there were “11/10 ers” ten to the dozen walking around. I’d never seen so many super model looking people all in one place.
As a “recovering introvert” I immediately felt out of place and like I didn’t belong. I didn’t have the looks nor the clothes so felt very self conscious walking to my apartment along the strip (with everyone else out dressed to impress).
I met my student the next day and I started to get a feel for the place. We had a drink at The Carlton Hotel (if you know it) as he knew the senior staff from years before. I helped him with his various Leica camera. That was the overall goal for the trip.
Model dog at the Carlton hotel
Day 2 we drove out to see more local towns in the mountains then had lunch at one of the exclusive beach bars. My first Leica workshop in a beach bar! It was interesting for me to see how everyone interacts in these places.
Day 3 I went for a morning run along the Promenade de la Croisette before we started the workshop and it was really interesting. I’ll share the full write-up in a future Fitness and Wellbeing themed eBook but in brief, fitness is a great leveller.
When I was clothed I felt out of place. Running topless along the same beach promenade sweating from the 30+ degrees heat, suddenly the same super model-looking people (doing their morning runs) were looking at me. For an hour I felt like I fitted in and that gave me confidence that lasted the rest of the day.
Once you strip back the expensive clothes and jewellery to just beach wear (or running kit), it doesn’t matter if you’re a young millionaire or an average Jo. Bystanders eyes wander towards the person that maintain a fit physique rather than the designer clothes. I suddenly felt like I fitted in so I went for another run on the last morning before flying home.
Running for me is more than just exercise. It’s an efficient way to see more of a new city faster, whether doing a recce for photoshoot locations or running with a camera taking tourist photos. I ran with a film camera both mornings so I’ll likely make a YouTube video if I got some nice shots.
Sunset view from the Promenade de la Croisette
Later in the day we drove to the nearest camera shop that sold Leica gear. My student exchanged his Leica SL3 for the new Leica SL3-P to get the better autofocus.
He used a Leica M11-P for his main camera and a Leica Q3 for family events so I was helping him consider which camera suits what occasions the best (to save him bringing all cameras on all trips).
We ran out of time to invite a local model for a photoshoot but it sounds like we’ll do that the next time we get together. Cannes really won my heart with all the beauty (as someone that likes to photograph this) so I hope to visit again soon.
In additional to teaching in Cannes, I did my usual Leica workshops in London. A student flew in from the US to meet me so I asked model friend Basia to join us. Norman was already comfortable with portraits but was newer to the Leica ecosystem, specifically the Leica M11-P.
I took my Leica M10-P and showed him how I light my models and he seemed to really enjoy it. (See my Workshop Testimonials for some of the feedback I receive from students if you’re interested).
Workshops in Europe this summer
After teaching in Gdansk, Prague and Cannes with possibly Paris and Germany coming up, get in touch if you’re planning to visit Europe this summer and want to arrange a day together. Check my availability
Zoom calls let me assist photographers around the world remotely. Whether it’s new cameras/ lenses, portrait lighting techniques or portfolio reviews I can help. Read the Zoom testimonials and check my availability.
Here are my provisional travel plans. Maybe I’m coming to a city near you or somewhere you’d like to visit. Feel free to contact me to organise a workshop.
If you bought the amazing (yet affordable) Mandler 35mm f2 (Leica King of Bokeh remake) you’re understandably very excited for any news on their new Mandler 50mm f1.4 (Leica Summilux 50mm f1.4 Pre-ASPH v3 remake).
I’ve been testing a 50mm prototype lens for Mandler and shared my feedback. Now I await the final production version so I can finish the YouTube lens review. As soon as they give me the green light I’ll share the video and they will likely make the lens available on their website the same day.
Many of you have asked me about 50mm price. The last time I checked it wasn’t quite finalised. I’d like to think the 50mm price will be in line with their 35mm lens (perhaps a bit more so they don’t run at a loss) as that is the Mandler mission (as I see it). Leica look lenses at affordable prices, so more of us can enjoy these types of lenses (and the final images they produce).
View GearList for recommended products & discount codes
Film photographers
Film – I bought Kodak XX for 2026 but shooting colour/ old XP2 first
New film developing is planned for August as I must have 30+ rolls backed up in the fridge (since the spring). My goal is to test a new film developing process plus new scanning and editing workflow. Lots of experimenting to do and I’m excited for the results.
Look out for the film related YouTube video as it’ll contain my best film images from the last 4 months or so (models and travel).
If you want more content you can also follow me on Substack. I post regular short form posts plus long form articles when I get the time. Here is the latest –
I’ve almost caught up with my pile of new lenses to review so in August I hope to get onto some other topics (plus the Mandler 50mm f1.4 which I’m excited about).
I’m hoping to arrange more UK shoots this month as I have new lighting gear to test. I might also book a last minute trip overseas somewhere later in the month. Subscribe to stay up to date and receive the monthly Leica newsletter for all the new releases.
YouTube video – spotlight
I’ve already posted the first video for August where I discuss how companies are making lenses more affordable using different approaches. I feature two new 50mm lenses for Leica L mount with very different designs. Watch here.
Later in the month I hope to share my new film developing/ scanning/ processing workflow and talk about a few digital cameras including the Leica M EV1. Stay tuned!
There’s often a conversation about how much or how little cameras and lenses matter to making great images. I mostly side with the very little side of that conversation.
That said, there’s a 5% range at the top (and I suppose the bottom) where the gear, especially the optics, makes a tremendous difference. I strive to make images that get into that five percent as often as possible, where the tool can truly enhance the image. For me, that is typically delivered when using a Leica Noctilux lens.
Who is Aaron?
I’m originally from Alaska (USA) but moved to Salt Lake City when I was fairly young and lived there for a couple of decades before moving around a bit over the following decades, and I recently moved back to Utah, right at the base of the majestic Wasatch Mountains.
In Alaska, my dad was a mountaineering pioneer, and unbeknownst to me at the time, was shooting thousands of slides using a Leica IIIa from 1936-37 with a Cooke 50MM lens that he had picked up at a yard sale in the 1960’s. So though my roots and residence are in the mountains and the Western United States, I’m a city boy at heart and consider NYC my photographic home.
My journey to Leica?
When I was young, I shot with whatever I could get my hands on. I couldn’t afford gear, and so my photography was definitely not about the gear. In the early 2010’s I settled in with Sony for several years, but simultaneously had some of the more affordable “basic” Leica cameras – a D Lux, an X Vario, etc.
In 2015, when the Leica SL (601) was introduced, I read everything I could about the system and “needed” to get my hands on one. I went to the Las Vegas Leica Store (RIP) and picked one up not long after the release. It quickly became my “go to” for most uses.
It was the announcement of the 75MM Leica Noctilux that brought me “all the way” to Leica. This lens was a marvel (and way beyond my then interest in “investing” in a lens), and I wanted it. I got my hands on one as quickly as possible, finding a barely used one as new ones were trickling out of the factory, and I couldn’t wait.
More on the 75MM Noctilux later, but needless to say, this was the gateway to M cameras and lenses for me, and I’ve never looked back.
Why Leica?
I choose Leica for two reasons, honestly, they’ve probably come to have equal weight for me; craftsmanship and community. The Leica community: the artists, the international and U.S domestic staff, and even, maybe mostly, the fans who aspire to participate in the Legacy of Leica, is such a tremendous source of inspiration and friendship.
Opposite of the false stereotype that Leica’s just sit unused in drawers next to Rolex watches, Leica users are ferocious creators, passionate friends, and endlessly curious. I’ve never seen a photographic community as open and inspiring as the Leica community.
Then there’s the craftsmanship. Leica equipment is extraordinarily well built, every detail is considered, and the quality is clear in every aspect of the equipment. However, when I talk about Leica craftsmanship, it is the optics that hold the most weight. There is nothing like Leica glass; the sharpness, the character, the variety, the longevity, it delivers in that 5% I mentioned above.
Leica glass challenges me, and once I’ve “unlocked” a lens, it can deliver images that I could not in any other way. To me, Leica lenses are the best in the world and reside there in a class all their own.
What Do You Photograph and Why?
I’m a generalist, I shoot everything. If I could only shoot one subject, it would always be people: beauty, fashion, street, documentary. I love people and capturing them. I want to make them look and feel their best, illustrate their situation or story as best as possible, and to help others see them as they should be seen.
So, though you might find me capturing images of animals, cars, life, whatever, I’m always on the lookout for an interesting person to put in front of my lens.
I’ve followed Matt for many years and appreciate his insights into photography and Leica, but we’ve only met in person once. But as is often the case in the Leica community, one in-person meeting is more than enough to have a meaningful connection and friendship.
But in-person at Photo London, we were quickly in deep conversation and passing the gear we had with us back and forth.
Favorite Leica Camera?
This is always a tough question, but I always answer with the camera I use the most or the camera that I would keep if I could only have one. That, of course, changes over time, but for me, it is currently the Leica M11 Monochrom.
Ask for my favorite vintage or favorite special edition, or some other narrowing question, and I’ll have another answer, but my favorite is the one I’m going to go out and create with the most.
Favorite Lens?
This is easy, though I love a lot of lenses, the 75MM Leica Noctilux f1.25 that I discussed previously is the favorite for sure. The shallow depth of field and optical perfection gives me everything I want when it comes to making portraits. For my desired outcomes, I’ve never seen a lens that delivers like 75MM Noctilux. This lens is a marvel.
Favorite Film?
I haven’t shot film in a long time and am generally resisting shooting film again. I enjoy consuming the film creations of others, I appreciate the extension of art that film can bring, but I’m simply not patient enough to shoot film at this stage.
I met Aaron at PhotoLondon 2026 and was kindly introduced by Iain who you might remember from his recent article. We instantly started chatting all things Leica and kept in touch.
I can definitely relate to Aaron’s story to Leica. I love my Leica iii cameras but it was a Leica M mount lens that pulled me to Leica (actually a Voigtlander Nokton Classic 40mm f1.4).
I was shooting Leica M cameras before the Leica SL 601 was a thing but unexpectedly transitioned to the SL series cameras as the years passed (after getting the little Leica CL). These EVF cameras just make it too easy.
From a creative point, I like to see my focus and exposure “real-time” (before clicking), but just as important for me, I want to see the lens flare (and bokeh to a lesser extent). For fast glass like the Noctilux lenses the bigger SL series cameras balance nicely and the EVF lets you nail your focus every time.
Fun fact. I used to shoot weddings with a Leica Noctilux 50mm f1.0 (v2) lens (wide open) on my Leica M9. Why? Two reasons. First there wasn’t enough light in the old English churches for the M9. Second to create images that other wedding photographers couldn’t replicate with their mainstream DSLR cameras and autofocus lenses (at the time).
The 5% “rule” Aaron mentions is real and it matters to me too. That’s why I love playing with vintage lenses (and Chinese replicas of!) Thanks Aaron.
(NEW) Mandler 50mm f.1.4 Pre-ASPH “E46” – Following the successful launch of their first lens, the Mandler 35mm f2(a Leica Summicron 35mm f2 v4 King of Bokeh remake), they are back with perhaps an even more exciting lens. If you know your Leica lenses one of the nicest 50s ever made was the Leica Summilux 50mm f1.4 Pre-ASPH (specifically the v3 which has the same optics as the v2 but focuses down to 0.7m.Sadly the v3 Leica lenses are plagued with haze issues so it’s a lens I never purchased). Mandler have made a 50mm Pre-ASPH lens which has the built-in hood of the v3 Leica original AND focuses down to 0.5m! I’ve been testing the prototype lens for Mandler and first impressions are very positive. I’ll be able to share more info next month so sub to the newsletter so not to miss that. **Many of you have asked me about the price. All I can say is it will likely be in line with their 35mm lens pricing (where it’s seems too good not to buy!)
(NEW) Voigtlander APO-Lanthar 90mm f4 “Close Focus” VM (M) – Another exciting new release from Voigtlander. This lens competes with the Leica Macro-Elmar 90mm f4 that I used to own, which also has the close focus option. I’ll share more info next month once the lens becomes available.
(NEW) Brightin Star 35mm f1.7 APO (M) – Following their popular 28mm pancake lens (see video), Brightin Star have announced the launch of their new 35mm APO lens (via a Kickstarter project). Size is bigger than the Mandler 35mm f2 and Funleader Artizlab 35mm f1.4 and it gives a nod to the Leica 35mm f2 APO with its rectangular lens hood. If the launch is successful I’ll try to get one to review for YouTube.
(NEW) Viltrox 28mm f4.5 AF (pancake lens) (L) – If you use a Leica SL series camera and are tired of carrying big heavy lenses around this might be for you. It’s the size of a Leica M-L adapter yet takes photos and gives you autofocus. See my YouTube video for more info.
Viltrox 28mm f4.5 AF
(NEW) TTArtisan 50mm f1.8 “Neo” AF (L) – If you looking for a super affordable compact nifty 50 for your Leica SL / CL (or any L mount camera), this punches well above it’s price tag. Video coming this week (subscribe on YT).
TTArtisan 50mm f1.8 AF
(UPDATE) 7Artisans / Seagull 35mm f1.7 (M) – A new collaboration, this is a limited production lens, only 500 units. I was able to borrow it from my Patreon buddy Tobi. I’m interested to see how it performs compared to the Mandler 35mm f2.
7Artisans Seagull 35mm f1.7
(UPDATE) Light Lens Lab 75mm f1.5 “Z21” (M) – I’ve been enjoying this lens for portraits thanks to the beautiful rendering. This is a longer version of the LLL 50mm f1.5 Z21 lens which sold out. See my YouTube review for more photos.
Light Lens Lab 75mm f1.5 “Z21”
(UPDATE)Light Lens Lab 50mm f1.9 “Rigid-ZS6” (M) – If you’re mostly a 50mm shooter like me and shoot portraits this lens is fantastic. At first glance this looks like their LLL 50mm f2 Rigid but the optics are based on the Dallmeyer Super Six so you get that vintage swirly bokeh magic. See my YouTube review for more.
Light Lens Lab 50mm f1.9 “Rigid-ZS6”
(UPDATE) Voigtlander APO-Skopar 75mm f2.8 VM (M) – I’m loving this lens on my Leica MP (especially) but great for digital too. It’s super sharp from wide open and smaller/ lighter than my Voigtlander Nokton 75mm f1.5 VM. Video coming soon. (If you’re based in the UK you can find this lens at Robert White).
Voigtlander APO-Skopar 75mm f2.8
2025 “Leica battery crisis” is over?
If you remember my video from last year I talked about the Leica battery crisis. Leica M cameras like the M240 series and Leica M10 series were still going strong years after their release yet there were no batteries available to feed them. (Leica M9 and M8 cameras were less affected as third party batteries were available).
Thankfully, Leica have woken up to the problem and have finally sourced a fresh supply of batteries for the mentioned cameras. If you’re looking to buy an older digital Leica M camera now you no longer need to worry about batteries. See my digital Leica M camera buyer’s guide.
Lighting – 15% off
Cameras and lenses are nice but if you photograph people or products it’s the lighting that makes the most difference. If you saw my latest video I show how I use the Ulanzi X200 for my model photography.
Ulanzi are offering 15% off ALL their products for July – Just use my discount code ZHIYUNMM10 for the Zhiyun store or Amazon. (Links are to the X200 but you can select any Zhiyun product).
June was a warm one. Earlier in the month I flew out to Gdansk, Poland to meet a student who joined me from Australia for 2 days of 1:1 Leica photography coaching. I stayed out in Poland and did a bit of a road trip with Patreon buddies after. Once back home I met a German photographer in London for a workshop day with models then at then end of the month I flew to Prague to run a 1:1 Leica model photography day for a UK student. I think the warm weather and long days just inspired everyone to get out and shoot (which for me means more workshop requests).
In addition to teaching I launched the Print Store on the blog and tried to keep up with YouTube videos and social media. I’m still behind with posting but I’m trying to upload more again on Instagram and Flickr. (Substack long form posts are not happening right now due to time but I post notes).
Printing is making me see differently
After buying a printer my eyes now seem to appreciate the more nuanced tonal differences and details. Take the photo below. It’s just a leaf but the photo was more popular than all the models I photographed in June. Maybe I don’t need to spend my life looking for models to shoot with and just shoot leaves instead.
Flickr non-portrait of the month (Most liked)
Your MrLeica login
If you tried to buy presets (or anything) from the blog in the last few months but had forgot your login details you likely hit a wall. You likely requested a password reset and received nothing. Sorry for this. After spam attacks I had to update the blog to use “ReCAPTCHA”. Thankfully the blog is working again and you can reset your login details anytime if you’ve forgotten them.
I’d arrange a multi-city Poland trip with Patreon friends Tobi and Thomas before receiving the Gdansk workshop request so I decided to do them back to back. After teaching in Gdansk I caught a train to Warsaw to meet the guys. We stopped by the Leica Warsaw store there to say hi (always worth a visit) and to test a few cameras (YouTube video to come).
Next we caught a train to Lodz, a new city for me. We wanted to try to do some urbex photography so had fun exploring a few locations we found. Finally we moved onto Krakow and from there we flew home. No photoshoots in the end but fun exploring new places. See my Travel ebook for how I pack for these trips.
Because of the workshop and longer trip I flew with 2 bags (rare for me these days). The Leica SL2-S is amazing for portraits (and testing lenses on FF for YouTube) but I was kicking myself for not packing the small Leica CL instead. Carrying an overly heavy bag around all day in the heat took the edge off the enjoyment a little so I’ve no clue how people travel with SL bodies plus native SL lenses.
Czech Republic photoshoots
Similar to the Poland trip I flew out to Prague to teach. I then stayed on and Tobi drove from Germany to meet me. From there we drove to Pilsen to meet model friends. Thanks to Tobi for bringing a car full of lighting gear (stands, bigger light mods etc). You’ll see me using them in a video to follow.
Always wanted to try model photography? Start today with my eBooks!
1:1 Coaching in Gdańsk, Poland
Australian based photographer Jason reached out asking if we could meet up in Europe for a few days at the start of his trip to help him with his Leica cameras. He was up for meeting me in one of my favourite cities Gdansk (Poland) so arrived on a train from Vienna.
To make it more efficient time wise, Jason booked us both into a nice hotel on the river so we were close to everything. Of all the years I’ve visited Gdansk this was the most impressive room with a view I’ve seen. We then had 2 full days together to help him master his Leica cameras before he went onto Paris.
In the mornings we explored Gdansk Old Town with the cameras (comparing lenses etc) and for the afternoon we meet up with local models to practice portraiture and lighting. During the downtime I helped him with his Lightroom workflow and editing.
We could easily have filled a third day but it was time for him to go on to France, and for me to catch my train to meet the guys in Warsaw.
London Leica workshop
German student and Patreon Stefan, reached out to request a workshop day in London. He already knew how to use his cameras but wanted my opinion on his Hasselblad X2DII vs Leica. We had Maryna with us in the morning then Basia in the afternoon. The plan was similar to what we often do. One model outside, one model inside, and practicing with different lighting scenarios for each. Great day!
Leica workshop in Prague
One of my regular students from the UK was going to be in Prague so he asked if I could fly out to meet him. He’d met me in Gdansk in the past to work with Polish models so this would be the first time working with Czech models.
When we arrived it was 38-39 degrees so just silly hot. We started the day inside then later shot outside under some trees to try to hide from the sun. The goal was to test lots of interesting lenses (and multiple cameras) and keep building on his portrait and lighting skills.
Workshops in Europe this summer
After just teaching in Poland and Prague, if you’re planning to visit Europe this summer and want to arrange a day together get in touch. Check my availability
Zoom calls let me assist photographers around the world remotely. Whether it’s new cameras/ lenses, portrait lighting techniques or portfolio reviews I can help. Read the Zoom testimonials and check my availability.
Here are my provisional travel plans. Maybe I’m coming to a city near you or somewhere you’d like to visit. Feel free to contact me to organise a workshop.
Lenses – See all lens reviews. I’m testing a few I can’t mention yet
Editing with presets – All my images are RAW + LR preset
Thypoch lenses – Summer sale
FYI – If you’re looking to get a new Leica M lens, Thypoch currently have a summer sale going on with some great discounts. Visit their website for more.
Trying the Hasselblad X2D II
I’m always testing lenses but often with my own cameras. It’s not every month that I test a new-to-me digital camera. Thanks to my student Stefan I spent a day with the Hasselblad X2D-II. I’ll link the YouTube video below and you can find new X2D presets available (replacing previous X2D presets).
View GearList for recommended products & discount codes
Film photographers
Film – I bought Kodak XX for 2026 but shooting colour/ old XP2 first
I’m still shooting film (colour and B&W) but developing and processing is currently on hold as I’m overwhelmed by new lenses to review. Film takes time and I don’t have that right now so I’ll keep piling up the exposed rolls in the fridge until things calm down a bit.
July will be busy as I need to pump out extra videos to catchup with the backlog. My desk is covered in new lenses (and comparable lenses) to review and compare.
A student invited me to join him on a luxury yacht in Sharm El Sheikh for a week (with my own cabin etc) but it looks like we might meet in France instead. My live is full of surprises! Subscribe for the latest.
YouTube video – spotlight
You might have already seen the first YouTube video for July, a Leica body cap lens with autofocus. Surprisingly good as a backup option – Watch here.
There is also a much anticipated special 50mm M lens being launched in July and I just received the prototype. Turn on your YouTube notifications so not to miss the release video.
“Podcast host and self-labelled photography “tourist” Iain Farrell might have to accept he’s on a path to becoming a photographer”.
Who is Iain?
Iain Farrell is a self taught and passionate photographer. He hosts the podcast Prime Lenses and makes photos with his Leica M11, beloved Zeiss C Biogon 35mm lens and is learning to shoot film with a Leica R8.
Headshot by Tom Oldham
My journey to Leica?
I’ve had a camera close by for as long as I can remember, my Dad was a very keen photographer which rubbed off on me. I discovered Leica almost by accident when looking into lenses that could be paired with my mirrorless Sony cameras, a NEX-5N and then an A7.
I loved those cameras but there was a look and feel to the images I was seeing made by Leica shooters that I wanted to understand and emulate. Initially I was attracted to the Leica Q series for the size and lens quality combination. I must have talked about it for years and once even made a presentation for my wife explaining why I should get a Leica Q to justify the purchase. In my late 30s my wife bought me a Leica Sofort, joking that it would be the only Leica I’d ever own xD
Joke’s on her, a few years later, when a bonus arrived from work one Christmas I asked my wife if it was ok to blow it all on a camera and she said I should! That used Leica M10 from the Manchester Leica store was the gateway drug and I haven’t looked back.
Why Leica?
It’s a feel primarily, a way of operating that I value. I love photography and almost never met a camera I didn’t like, but if it’s up to me, it’s a Leica M.
What Do You Photograph and Why?
Mostly I photograph my family and friends. I joke on the podcast when speaking to photographers that I’m a “tourist” because photography isn’t my job but I try to apply what I learn from and see in the work of others to the family and landscape photos I can make near my home in Scotland.
My poor kids. There are going to be many thousands of photos of trees for them to wade through on a NAS or two when I shuffle off this mortal coil.
Thoughts
As a photographer and podcaster I think I’m on a bit of a mission to cultivate and share conversations with some really great photographers.
I found our mutual acquaintance once I started searching online for Leica information. Matt’s MrLeica.com website and then latterly YouTube adventures are always so thorough and well considered. When I started the podcast I knew that I wanted to track him down to be on the show and as luck would have it we met at London Photo in 2025 (and again in 2026!)
Favorite Leica Camera?
I loved my Leica M10 but the Leica M11 is probably my favourite ever. It’s lighter, makes beautiful images with modern perks like USB-C charging and phone connectivity which combine modern convenience with a classic shooting experience and excellent battery life. I also need to shout out the Leica Sofort. The first version is a really lovely analogue camera, I love mine.
Favorite Lens?
This is easy. I LOVE my Zeiss C Biogon 35mm f2.8 lens. This compact lens renders beautifully. When I was a kid I used a 35mm compact film camera, the Canon MC. This was also a 35mm f2.8 and I think this just cemented in my mind that this is what a photo looks like. This lens almost never leaves the front of my M although I do also really enjoy my Leica Summicron 50mm f2.
Favorite Film?
I am just getting back into film photography and really like Kentmere’s black and white films, but I have most experience with Polaroid, and will also shout out the lovely Leica instant film for Sofort and Sofort 2.
I know it’s technically Instax, but Wetzlar have put their mark on it by offering a slightly different colour of border and I really like their options.
I remember Iain stopping me to say hello at PhotoLondon 2025 and we were chatting about the Zeiss Biogon 35mm f2.8 ZM lens. He then reached out in 2026 and invited me on his podcast (listen here). We then cross paths again at PhotoLondon 2026, a fantastic event for meeting people as well as the photos! Thanks Iain.
(NEW) “Metal Grey” Leica M11-P, Leica Q3 and Leica D-Lux8 cameras – Leica release their new Metal Grey cameras together with a Metal Grey Leica 50/2 APO lens.
(NEW) 7Artisans / Seagull 35mm f1.7 (M) – A new collaboration from the long established optical company Seagull (you might know the name from Seagull TLR cameras) in collaboration with 7Artisans. This is a limited production lens, only 500 units. I’m interested to see how it performs compared to lenses like the Funleader Artizlab 35mm f1.4 and Mandler 35mm f2.
(NEW) Light Lens Lab 75mm f1.5 “Z21” (M) – LLL have just released another new 75mm lens. This is a longer version of the LLL 50mm f1.5 Z21 lens which sold out. I’m currently enjoying this lens for creative portraits. YouTube video to follow.
(UPDATE)Light Lens Lab 50mm f1.9 “Rigid-ZS6” (M) – A pretty lens when paired with a silver Leica M camera and I love the blue lens coating. At first glance this looks like their Leica Summicron 50mm f2 Rigid remake but the optics are actually based on the Dallmeyer Super Six lens. This gives a really nice classic rendering (and pop in the right conditions) plus swirly bokeh. (The bokeh reminds me of the Pre-ASPH Leica Summilux 50mm f1.4 which is great). YouTube video to follow.
Light Lens Lab 50mm f1.9 “Rigid-ZS6”
(UPDATE) Voigtlander APO-Skopar 75mm f2.8 VM (M) – I have this lens with me to for review and first impressions are, it’s excellent. Small, lightweight and sharp. I’ve not compared it to the Voigtlander Nokton 75mm f1.5 VM yet but expect a positive review coming on YouTube. (If you’re based in the UK you can find this lens at Robert White).
Teaching a Leica Workshop in Poland – Shot with new Voigtlander 75mm f2.8
Printing is making me shoot differently
If you saw the recent extending the “Leica Magic” video, I’m loving my new printer. Instead of only posting images on platforms like Instagramand Flickr, I’m now producing tangible prints that I can physically hold.
What I didn’t expect is that buying a printer would make me start shooting differently. Having physical prints in my hand is making me appreciate and see more nuanced details in daily life. Textures and tones ranges in nature for example keep catching my eye.
Owning a printer means I can now get really creative, not only with photo prints but printing also sorts of custom printables like thank you notes, cards, certificates for my limited prints, labels and more. See my new Print Store for inspiration on how I’m using the printer or to grab a Matt Osborne Original print.
May started at a friend’s villa in France for a multi-day cycling trip, next the annual Patreon meet-up in London, followed by a flight to Poland. Coming up – photos, updates plus the latest YouTube videos and blog posts from the last 30 days.
Trying to catch up
After struggling to keep up with life over the last few months I’m starting to make headways again. I’m still well behind on Substack and Instagram posts but I’ve uploaded images to Flickr and managed 4 videos in 9 days towards the end of May. The most for a long time.
YouTube – boxing myself in
After publishing almost 600 YouTube videos I think most people now see me as their goto guy for Leica M mount lens reviews. That’s great, but the problem I’ve created for myself is, if I dare to make a video that isn’t a rangefinder lens review, views are down 65-75%. (3 people even unsubscribed when I posted my latest video as I dared to try something different).
More variety
I love testing lenses (Really – I do it for myself) but it would be nice to be more than just a lens review monkey. I’m trying to mix things up a little as I’m sure not everyone wants to watch constant lens reviews. For one, it can get expensive watching weekly lens reviews if the lenses are good!
My plan is to perhaps do –
60% lens reviews
30% other reviews (Lighting, analogue stuff, latest tech, like action cams)
10% miscellaneous (More about actually making images than just gear talk)
My ask is, if you see me post a video that isn’t titled “Lens X”, perhaps still give it a click regardless of the title. Why? I do the same stuff most weeks – travel, test stuff, photograph models, shoot Leica, shoot film, document it all, repeat. All my videos contain these same topics even if I’m mentioning a different product.
Flickr non-portrait of the month (Most liked)
Print baby print
OK my latest obsession is printing. I finally treated myself to a home printer and the joy it brings is seemingly endless. I’ll make a YouTube video with all the info when I can, I’m just waiting on some more photo paper to arrive to test.
I think normal people would likely approach printing like getting a new camera or lens. Buy it, use it, enjoy it, done. Not me. As a lens review junky I can’t just use a printer with one paper or one default setting. Instead I need to do a million test prints using 30+ different papers types and multiple profiles per paper.
Safe to say after 100+ hours of printing I fast tracked my learning pretty quick and I can now make really nice prints.
Last year I had photobook zines printed externally (I have a coupleof the Travel books + Legacy model booksremaining). Now I have a printer I can control everything in house. Time to print some of my favourite images as limited prints!
For June 2026 I’ve done my first print launch since setting up this blog in 2013. 15 different images split over postcard sets and large limited prints.
Large prints(Limited prints, run of 10 for each size)
If you’re interested in a 1 of 10 print grab one today before I announce them on YouTube. (Shipping costs are now calculated at checkout and it’s a flat rate so you can save with multi-buys).
Every May we have our annual Patreon meet at PhotoLondon where guys fly in for the weekend to get together. This would be our 4th year and it was our biggest gathering so far.
PhotoLondon moved from Somerset House to Olympia this year and the new venue was a big improvement. (I say that, the light was great but they need more seating areas better food/ drinks options).
The problem with attending these events as a group is we chat so much and people stop to say hi (Great meeting some of you!) Even with the full 8 hours? from opening we still struggled to get round to see everything. (Upstairs was a mad rush in the last hour before they kicked us out!).
If you need some inspiration to start printing your work, I highly recommend attending a gallery event like PhotoLondon. See what people are selling and it might give you ideas for your own work.
A few film scans from the main day. You can see more in my Yashica T3 post.
London photoshoots
We had Sofia join us for the Patreon weekend so we did some photoshoot too. If you’ve already read the Yashica T3 article you will have seen these but here are a few colour film samples.
Poland Trip
After planning less travel for May I got itchy feet mid-month and booked last minute flights to Gdansk (sub-£40 return). (Way better than a day in London and the same travel cost!) See my Travel ebook for how.
A model friend picked me up at the airport and we did a location shoot day 1. Day 2 – I explored the city and met another model. Day 3 – The model from day 1 picked me up and we drove to a few locations then she dropped me at the airport after. A very productive and fun 3 days.
Always wanted to try model photography? Start today with my eBooks!
London Leica workshop
I spend a day with one of my students in London and we walked around, took photos, caught the Uber boat and ended at a few cameras stores to get her kitted out. Photo below shot with my Leica MP.
Workshops in Europe this summer
After being flown to Texas to teach in April the weather is now improving for Europe for the summer. May was local London workshops, June I fly to Poland for a 2-day workshop in Gdansk and then travel to Prague to teach.
If you’re planning to visit Europe this summer and want to arrange a day together do get in touch and I can look to arrange to meet you (like I’m doing for the Poland and Czech Republic workshops).Check my availability
Zoom calls let me assist photographers around the world remotely. Whether it’s new cameras/ lenses, portrait lighting techniques or portfolio reviews I can help. Read the Zoom testimonials and check my availability.
Complete the survey to register your interest in a MrLeica workshop near you.
Dubai Workshop, 2022
Future travel plans
Here are my provisional travel plans. Maybe I’m coming to a city near you or somewhere you’d like to visit. Feel free to contact me to organise a workshop.
After trying colour film again at the start of 2026 I finished my developer and was ready to get back to my usual B&W. I then bought myself a Yashica T3 and that kicked off my urge to shoot more colour film.
If you read my latest article on “RIP Cinestill” you’ll know that I just bought some fresh Kodak Vision3 500T AHU film from Analog Revival. I got a few other films to try too + a new pack of colour film developer.
This means another 24 rolls of colour film to come in the next 8 weeks or so. I better get started!
June it’s going to be busy. Workshops bookings for London, Gdansk and Prague plus a trip across Poland. It seems to be new lens season again too. I have 4 new lenses on my desk to review, 2 more coming in the post and 2 that have been delayed. (I also have a new light coming and a new scanner unit to test!)
I’ll be busy but on the plus side, this means lots of photography, plenty of excuses to shoot film and more new videos in the pipeline. Subscribe!
YouTube video – spotlight
The first lens YouTube video for June will be a new ultra-tiny 35mm f2.8 lens available in both M and LTM mount. Before that I might post a video sharing my latest photography obsession to try to inspire you.
Is the Panasonic Lumix S9 an Affordable Leica Alternative?
