Author: Matt Osborne (MrLeica.Com)

🔴 Monthly Recap – Apr25

Newsletter: Photography related posts, videos and hopefully a source of inspiration!

Flickr portrait of the month (Most liked)

First time here? Get your Blog Insider perks!

Founded in 2013, I share my experiences and reviews of Leica, film cameras, lenses + more. View the last 100 blog posts and search 400+ articles. Photos? See Flickr and Instagram.

Last month

In March I finally cut back after a crazy 4 years of posting 2 new YouTube videos each week. I fly back to Porto, Portugal and Lanzarote for photo trips and the UK starts to see the first signs of spring!

Fewer YouTube Videos

After surpassing 40K subscribers on YouTube and the drop in YouTube ad revenue I felt it made sense to ease off the gas and focus my limited time on other areas of photography such as more blog posts and teaching workshops. 

Going forward the plan is at least 1 new YouTube video per week plus extras if I get time.  (I explain all this in more detail in this video if you missed it).

MrLeica.com – The goal (recap)

The goal for this blog is to review every popular Leica mount lens (all brands, all Leica mounts but especially Leica M mount) plus every Leica camera (film and digital). I want to build a resource you can use when looking to buy camera gear. (Follow to not miss new reviews).

There is already 500+ videos plus 450+ written articles grouped by –

• Leica camera reviews
• Lens reviews
• Non-Leica film cameras A-Z
• Film stocks A-Z

Leica Owner? Join the Leica Club

• See full info here or enter your details below:

Patreon reaches almost 1K members

I setup the MrLeica Patreon platform around 4 years ago for fans wanting to get access to exclusive content and as a way for you to support the blog and YouTube channel. I upload new content each week so we now have a HUGE back catalog of videos and posts. 

We have Patreons from all corners of the globe and the highlight each month is our 2x 1-hour group Zoom calls. The level of knowledge across members is quite mind boggling so it’s great that I get to learn too. Read some of the Patreon testimonials if that sounds like fun.

*Since Patreon added the option to follow Patreon for free the signups have rocketed and we’re getting close to 1000 members. There is a Patreon meet-up in France next month and another in London in May so good times ahead!

Leica workshops

Now the UK weather is starting to improve the requests for my London 1:1 workshops are starting to come in (+ enquiries to fly to teach in Central Europe (Budapest, Poland etc). Get in touch if you want to schedule a workshop day together!

MrLeica 1:1 workshops

The beauty of 1:1 teaching vs. groups is I can meet your individual needs –

• Lightroom+Photoshop editing
• Film and digital cameras
• Portfolio reviews + Instagram
• Vintage lens/ camera help
• 1 or 2 professional models
• Available light, LED or flash
• Try before you buy (lenses)
• Indoor spaces or outside
• Leica gear shopping (old&new)

Complete the survey

Use the survey to register your interest in a MrLeica workshop near you.

Porto II photo trip

If you remember my Porto video on YouTube from last month you’ll know that I had a bit of a disaster with my film cameras. I was determined try again so I made a second visit. See the second Porto trip video on YouTube and here are a few sample photos.

Lanzarote photoshoots

After my successful trip to Lanzarote in January with Sofi (See the Patreon BTS videos) I was keen to go again. I found return trips flights for under £35 and this time I invited Patreon friend Tobi to join us. (See this YouTube video). 

You’ll likely see more of this trip in future YouTube videos and here is a photo from one of the other photoshoots (catching up with Ying).  (It’s crazy but I’ve hardly had time to look at the photos since getting back but I’ll try to post more soon).

Future travel plans

Contact me to book a workshop. Here are my travel plans so far –

APRIL 2025

• Toulouse, France – Patreon meet 
• Budapest – Teaching

MAY 2025

• Photo London – Patreon meet
• Poland/Budapest TBC

JUNE 2025

• Coast to coast to coast (UK cycling event)
• TBC

JULY 2025

• Czech-Germany Roadtrip II – TBC
• TBC

Private 1:1 Tuition

Visiting London? Message me to request a private 1:1 workshop (see prices and testimonials)

Leica+Model Workshops

Click Here ↗

Digital photographers

If you follow me you know I love Leica cameras and my preference for film vs digital.

• Digital cameras – Leica CL (travel), SL (portraits), Q (for sale – boxed), M262, M10P
• Lenses – See all lens reviews. Lenses I’m currently testing are the Thypoch Simera 75mm f1.5 (see video), Voigtlander 35mm f3.5 and soon the Light Lens Lab 50mm f1.5
• Editing with presets – All my images are RAW + LR preset

Download Leica presets

Click Here ↗

View GearList for recommended products & discount codes

Film photographers

• Film – I’m keeping up with my 35mm film developing. Next is 120 film from 2024
• Cameras – Just bought a Leica M7! (See video + Follow to receive the M7 blog)
• Lenses – As above, multiple new lenses in the pipeline
• Film Processing – See old newsletters for details on developing, scanning and prints

Directory: Leica Repairs + Leica YouTubers

Have feedback following a Leica service, repair or CLA? See the Leica Repair Directory page. What are your favourite Leica YouTuber channels?

Latest YouTube videos 

Catch up on YouTube videos (Last 30 days) –

Learn how I light my portraits – Super easy setup!

Leica users – Why some lenses give you more better photos

YouTuber life is no longer realistic in 2025

Get a new lightmeter for your Leica M6 Classic (Thanks ACR!)

New portrait lens for Leica M – Thypoch Simera 75mm f1.5

I bought a Leica M7! Why?

Latest blog posts

400+ written posts (+ full res images) to supplement my YT videos

• Best Digital Leica M Camera Comparison
• Best Leica M Lens for Travel (Top 10)
• MrLeica Mentions – Mar25
• Dream Camera Conversion! Leica M10P
• Leica Workshops London (2025)

Patreon post (shared)

For a taster of Patreon, here are some article you missed. Join us today!

• “Gamechanger for Leica owners that use flash“ Sign up to view (free)
• “What’s in my bag – Mar25 II” Sign up to view (members)

Coming up next month..

In early April I meet a Patreon flying in from the US for a photoshoot day in London and then we fly to Toulouse, France to meet more Patreons and a weekend of model shoots. I am also due to be back in Budapest for teaching so it will be nice to be back.  (I’ve shot a few rolls of film with my new Leica M7 so I’m keen to get the film developed and check the results).

YouTube video – spotlight 

The first YouTube video in April is a good one. I need to make more time to cover some of the other amazing film cameras in addition to Leica. Check out the Hasselblad vs Mamiya article + YouTube video to enjoy bigger negatives than is possible with Leica cameras.

Subscribe to receive the newsletter via email (free) + Previous Newsletters

🔴 Monthly Recap – Mar25

Newsletter: Photography related posts, videos and hopefully a source of inspiration!

Flickr portrait of the month (Most liked) DISPLAY CORRECTLY

First time here? Get your Blog Insider perks!

Started in 2013, I share my experiences and reviews of  Leica, film cameras, lenses + more. View the last 100 blog posts and search 400+ articles. Photos? See Flickr and Instagram.

How was last month?

February saw me using my cameras in Porto, Gdansk and Budapest. I finally printed some photos in the darkroom after what feels like a six month gap and I reviewed the latest lenses for Leica M mount. All videos and blogs from the month coming up below.

12 years of MrLeica.com!

It’s officially 12 years since I started the MrLeica.com blog back in March 2013. Little did I know that my humble reviews on WordPress would lead to me quitting my finance career and going full time with photography. 

Celebrate and SAVE!

To celebrate, I’m offering 20% off eBooks and 10% off preset packs during the month of March. Use codes “MARCH20” and “MARCH10” at checkout. 

MrLeica.com – What’s the goal?

The goal for this blog is to review every Leica mount lens (all brands, all Leica mounts but especially Leica M mount) and every Leica camera (film and digital). I want to build a resource you can use when looking to buy camera gear. (Follow to not miss future reviews)

Check out 500+ videos plus 450+ written articles listed under –

• Leica camera reviews
• Lens reviews
• Non-Leica film cameras A-Z
• Film stocks A-Z

Leica Owner? Join the Leica Club

• See full info here or enter your details below:

Leica workshops

I was back to teaching my London 1:1 workshops in February after the usual gap over the festive period. Below is a sample.

MrLeica 1:1 workshops

The beauty of 1:1 teaching vs. groups is I can meet your individual needs –

• Lightroom+Photoshop editing
• Film and digital cameras
• Portfolio reviews + Instagram
• Vintage lens/ camera help
• 1 or 2 professional models
• Available light, LED or flash
• Try before you buy (lenses)
• Indoor spaces or outside
• Leica gear shopping (old&new)

Complete the survey

Use the survey to register your interest in a MrLeica workshop near you.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/32681588@N03/54336617510Flickr colour portrait of the month (most liked)

Porto photo trip

If you saw my Porto video on YouTube you’ll know the trip didn’t quite go to plan. Despite my film fails I enjoyed my first visit to Porto and I’ve booked it again. Second time lucky!

Gdansk photoshoots

It’s been a while since I’ve been to Poland so I arranged to meet Patreon friend Thomas in Gdansk. We booked an apartment in the centre which makes it a fun social trip and also cheaper. Plan was a few days of shooting film plus a couple of models. See my YouTube video on favourite B&W film for 2025 for the photos.

Budapest photo trip

Another European city I’m a big fan of is Budapest. The weather is often blue skies so the goal was to escape the grey wet UK condition for a few days of light. Sadly my best plans failed and it rained for half of my visit. I felt slightly foolish when I stepped off the plane to see sunshine in the UK when I got home! 

The goal for the trip was to push film and see the results before using a similar setup in Porto next time. I’ll try to make a video on this but below is the first film scan from Hungary. (200mm f4 lens on a 1934 Leica iii camera!)

Future travel plans

Contact me to book a workshop. Here are my travel plans so far –

MARCH 2025

• Porto, Portugal
• Lanzarote
• TBC

APRIL 2025

• Toulouse, France – Patreon meet 
• Teaching in Lisbon – TBC
• TBC

MAY 2025

• Photo London (Patreon meet)
• TBC

Private 1:1 Tuition

Visiting London? Message me to request a private 1:1 workshop to fit your schedule. See workshop prices and testimonials.

Leica+Model Workshops

Click Here ↗

Digital photographers

If you follow me you know I love Leica cameras and my preference for film vs digital.

Digital cameras – Leica CL (for travel), SL (for portraits), Q (for sale – boxed), M262, M10P

Lenses – See all lens reviews. Future new lenses to test are the Thypoch Simera 75mm f1.5, Voigtlander 35mm f3.5 and Light Lens Lab 50mm f1.5.

Editing with presets – All my images are RAW + LR preset.

Download Leica presets

Click Here ↗

View GearList for recommended products & discount codes

Film photographers

Film – I caught up with my 35mm film developing. Next is 120 film from 2024.

Cameras – Two undisclosed film cameras are being tested for review. Stay tuned!

Lenses – As above, multiple new lenses in the pipeline.

Film Processing – I made my first darkroom print for months last week so there is a glimmer of hope! See old newsletters for details on developing, scanning and printing.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/32681588@N03/54323803612Explored on Flickr

Directory: Leica Repairs + Leica YouTubers

Have feedback following a Leica service, repair or CLA? See the Leica Repair Directory page. What are your favourite Leica YouTuber channels?

Latest YouTube videos 

Catch up on YouTube videos (Last 30 days) –

Film fail in Porto (But I still take you along for the journey)

Why are 135mm Leica lenses SO CHEAP? 

How good is the new Voigtlander 90mm APO-Ultron?

Shoot film in Gdansk – Comparing Kentmere 400 vs Kodak XX

Leica Summicron Rigid 50mm Improved Clone (from Light Lens Lab)

Remake of the Leica Elmarit 28mm f2.8 9-Element from Light Lens Lab

Taking my Leica M-A to Wetzlar (+ 10 ways to customise your camera)

Latest blog posts

400+ written posts (+ full res images) to supplement my YT videos

• Customise Your Camera (10 ideas for Leica)
• MrLeica Mentions – Feb25
• Best 135mm Leica lens? Why so cheap?

Patreon post (shared)

For a taster of Patreon, here are some article you missed. Join us today!

• “What season are you in? (with your photography)“ Sign up to view (free)
• “Easy Hack! How to grow your Instagram fast” Sign up to view (members)

Coming up next month..

After hitting 40K subs on YouTube companies are now starting to reach out offering to sponsor the channel. If all goes well I’ll share my first “paid promotion” video in March. I’m testing two not yet disclosed film cameras so I’m excited to see how they perform plus I have new lenses arriving soon to review. 

My goal with YouTube for 2025 is to continue the two new videos a week but make one a no-frills info video and the other the usual B roll clips + info. This might free up one day a week so I can try to focus on darkroom printing.

YouTube video – spotlight 

The first video in March is undecided as I have a few that I could make. I’ll leave it as a surprise but I do have a video coming sharing my workflow and how I edit my photos in Lightroom.

Claim your free eBook

Click Here ↗

Subscribe to receive the newsletter via email (free) + Previous Newsletters

🔴 Monthly Recap – Jan25

Newsletter: Photography related posts, videos and hopefully a source of inspiration!

Flickr photo of the month (Most liked)DISPLAY CORRECTLY

First time here? Get your Blog Insider perks!

Started in 2013, I share my experiences and reviews of  Leica, film cameras, lenses + more. View the last 100 blog posts and search 400+ articles. Photos? See Flickr and Instagram.

How was last month?

To round out 2024 I managed to finally travel to Leitz-Park in Wetzlar. (I had the excuse to take my Leica M10-P back as they forgot to finish the M10-M10P upgrade)(this video). With a few days “off” because of Christmas I managed to get a few more blog post articles published and finally list my new Leica M262 presets and Hasselblad CCD presets.

Leica Owner? Join the Leica Club

• See full info here or enter your details below:

New MrLeica Presets

I’m so sorry for the delay on listing these presets, I know some of you have written to me a few times. To explain my process, when I buy a new camera I develop around 10 presets (for colour and black and white editing) and then over time see which version I use the most. I then package those up as a bundle and list as a preset pack to download here. 

The two all-new preset packs are as follows (and the legacy Leica M240 pack has been discontinued):

• Leica M262 presets (Also for Leica M240 and Leica M262 cameras)
• Hasselblad CCD presets (For H3D-39 + CCD sensor Hasselblad cameras)

https://www.flickr.com/photos/32681588@N03/53928623860Leica M262 RAW + MrLeica M262 Preset

https://www.flickr.com/photos/32681588@N03/54070392485Hasselblad H3D-39 RAW + MrLeica Hasselblad CCD Preset 

Leica workshops

London 1:1 workshops

More of my London 1:1 workshops in December where photographers write to me to request a workshop. One of the workshops was a 10hr “Go Big” full day workshop with two models. To add variety I organised two different studios, morning and afternoon and we had a blast. 

Another student flew in from Dallas again and we walked round London for the day to help her get to grips with her digital Leica M11-P and Leica MP film camera (coming from Sony).

MrLeica 1:1 workshops

The beauty of 1:1 teaching vs. groups is I can meet your individual needs –

• Lightroom+Photoshop editing
• Film and digital cameras
• Portfolio reviews + Instagram
• Vintage lens/ camera help
• 1 or 2 professional models 
• Available light, LED or flash
• Try before you buy (lenses)
• Indoor spaces or outside 
• Leica gear shopping (old&new)

Complete the survey

Use the survey to register your interest in a MrLeica workshop near you.

Photo trip to the motherland!

After over a decade of making Leica camera reviews (and all the lens reviews) I finally got to visit the motherland, Leitz-Park in Wetzlar Germany. My Patreon friend Thomas was planning to drive from The Netherlands to Nuremberg Germany to visit fellow YouTuber, “GrainyDays” aka Jason’s photo exhibition at the Leica store. It sounded like a fun idea so I flew into Germany, met Thomas in Cologne and we drove to Wetzlar. 

From there we went to Nuremberg and Patreon friend Tobi travelled to meet us. See this video and this video 2 for more from this trip if interested. (So many amazing people. I hope to do it again in 2025).

Dates for Travel

Contact me to book a workshop. Here are my travel plans so far –

JANUARY 2025

• Lanzarote photoshoot
• Czech Republic photoshoots

FEBRUARY 2025

• Budapest? TBC
• TBC

MARCH 2025

• Lanzarote or Fuerteventura? Cycling TBC
• TBC

Private 1:1 Tuition

Visiting London? Message me to request a private 1:1 workshop to fit your schedule. See workshop prices and testimonials.

Leica+Model Workshops

Click Here ↗

Digital photographers

If you follow me you know I love Leica cameras and my preference for film vs digital.

Digital cameras – My Leica M10 was upgraded to M10-P by Wetzlar Germany (See video).

Lenses – See all lens reviews. Finally I review the vintage Canon 50mm f1.2 screw mount rangefinder lens (this video) and compare the 7 different 35mm Leica Summicron lenses.

Editing with presets – All my images are RAW + LR preset.

Download Leica presets

Click Here ↗

View GearList for recommended products & discount codes

https://www.flickr.com/photos/32681588@N03/54229260687Flickr film portrait of the month (Likes)

Film photographers

Film – I’m still shooting film but behind with my B&W film developing (soon!)

Cameras – After returning the Leica MP I bought a Leica M-A.

Lenses – I still need to review my Nikon FM3a so I’ve been using that recently with my usual favourite Voigtlander SL lenses for Nikon F mount (90mm APO perhaps the most).

Film Processing – See old newsletters for details on developing, scanning and printing. My bathroom is a darkroom. I shower at the gym.

Directory: Leica Repairs + Leica YouTubers

Have feedback following a Leica service, repair or CLA? See the Leica Repair Directory page. What are your favourite Leica YouTuber channels?

Latest YouTube videos 

Catch up on YouTube videos (Last 30 days) –

Why I bought the Leica M-A? (After returning my Leica MP)

Who makes the best lenses for Leica M mount in 2024?

How I instantly improve portraits with any boring lens/ modern lens

Asking Leica HQ why Leica repairs take so long

Thanks Leica, you helped me find my people!

Leica accidentally sold me a watch (but it wasn’t a Leica)

I review a lot of kit. Not all are keepers. Here’s my top 10!

My first live-ish (uncut) video answering your most asked questions

Why the Canon 50mm f1.2 lens is so good for Leica users

35mm Summicron buyer’s guide (v1 v2 v3 v4 v5 v6 v7)

Latest blog posts

400+ written posts (+ full res images) to supplement my YT videos

• Best 35mm Leica Summicron Lens? v1,v2,v3,v4,v5,v6,v7
• Buying a Leica M-A (Leica Purist Camera)
• MrLeica Mentions – Dec24
• Top 10 Purchases 2024

Patreon post (shared)

For a taster of Patreon, here is an article you missed. Join us today!

• “Inspired by a different genre” Sign up to view (free)

Coming up next month..

What’s coming up in 2025? I have a few new products due to be shipped to me for testing so I’m excited to share those with you. I have a special video planned for when I reach 40K subscribers on YouTube so please subscribe. (I pick up the item mid-January then I can share it as soon at we reach 40K).

I have a few new surprises coming too.. when I thought I’d fully explored the Leica bubble I discover a new massive rabbit hole to jump into! (The fun continues!)

YouTube video – spotlight 

I’m actually early posting the newsletter for once so I’m not actually sure what the next video will be. I did script the second video for January when I woke up this morning so all that to follow!

Claim your free eBook

Click Here ↗

Subscribe to receive the newsletter via email (free) + Previous Newsletters

New in Leicaland 🔴 Jan25

Mid-month mentions for Blog Insiders – What’s new?

Leica related news

This month we have the following announcements –

• Leica SL3-S – The latest camera release from Leica is the new SL3-S. On paper it’s very similar to the Leica SL2-S that I’ve reviewed in the past (See SL vs SL2 vs SL2-S comparison). The SL3-S retains the same 24MP as the SL2-S but is said to now have faster autofocus, better video capabilities and comes with the Leica SL3 tilt screen (see video). If you like the idea of a mirrorless L mount camera but don’t have the cash to splash out on a Leica, you can get similar looking images using the Lumix S cameras. I own both. (See my Lumix S5 vs Leica SL video). 

• Funleader 35mm f1.4 M lens – Quick update as you keep asking! The Funleader copy of the pre-ASPH Leica Summilux 35mm f1.4 v2 arrived and to clear the confusion it is labeled as Artizlab not Funleader. Lens testing is complete and video out soon. If you want to buy one while they have their pre-sale save 5% with code MRLEICACOM on this link. Update – see video!

• Light Lens Lab 50mm f2 “Rigid” M lens – This announcement came out in 2024 but the first copies of the lens are now starting to ship. Light Lens Lab or LLL are now well known for their fantastic remakes of highly regarded classic Leica lenses. Lenses like the LLL Elcan 50mm f2 (blog & video), LLL 35mm f2 8E (video), LLL 50mm f1.2 1966 (video). Now they bring us the LLL 50mm f2 Rigid, based on the Leica Summicron 50mm f2 Rigid lens design. I’m due to receive a demo copy to test soon so follow the blog to see the results. (I’m also due to receive their LLL 28mm f2.8 9-Element lens to test). *LLL work in batches and have since discontinued their 50mm Elcan and 35mm 8E. The 50mm f1.2 is next to go as I understand but we do have a new 35mm in the pipeline.

Non-Leica news

• Camera strap/ watch strap set – Do you love your camera AND your watch? How nice would it be if you could obtain matching quality leather straps for both in your favourite colour? I had this thought so I reached out to Wotancraft to ask if it was possible. They asked me to order the camera strap of choice first via their website (I like their leather straps with integrated Peak Design anchors). After payment email them and ask them to make you a watch strap to match your camera strap (You will need your watch dimension details – lug width, wrist circumference etc).  You can even have your strap embossed with your initials and get matching leather bumpers to protect your camera. My Leica M3 has never looked so good! (Try to spot my new straps on YouTube soon!)

Click HERE if image is not displaying correctly

Other news

• Join Patreon for FREE – Did you know that you can follow along on Patreon for free? 
• Leica M6 & Leica M-A Updates – Both cameras are back. Videos are coming.
• eBooks – What are your goals for 2025? Perhaps make money with your photography or improve your portraits skills / try model photography. I wrote books to help you.
• Leica M262/M240 + Hasselblad H (CCD) MrLeica presets – Now available (finally)
• London Workshops 2025 – Get in touch if you’d like to book a day (before the rush)
• US Workshops 2025 – No exact dates yet, looking at New York in late spring first

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News in Leicaland 🔴 Feb25

Mid-month mentions for Blog Insiders – What’s new?

Leica related news

We had no releases in the last 30 days so let’s recap some of the latest lenses –

• Voigtlander 90mm f2 APO-Ultron VM – Great performer and now an affordable alternative to the Leica Summicron 90mm f2 APO. I’m tempted for sure.  Watch the video review and see this video for results on film. (If you live in the UK Robert White is the Voigtlander stockist).

Voigtlander APO-Ultron 90mm f2 (on film) *CLICK HERE IF NOT DISPLAYING

• Funleader 35mm f1.4 M lens – I’ve been really happy with the Funleader (Artizlab) lens so far. Watch the video review if you’re interested and see the Porto video for results on film. Check prices here and use code MRLEICACOM for money off.

Funleader Artizlab 35mm f1.4 (on film)

• Light Lens Lab 50mm f2 “Rigid” M lens – If you saw my recent Poland video you might have spotted me testing the new LLL 50mm f2 Rigid. Review video coming soon.

Light Lens Lab 50mm f2 Rigid

Other news

• Join Patreon for FREE – Follow along to get a feel for the content before signing up.
• eBooks – What are your goals for 2025? Perhaps make money with your photography or improve your portraits skills / try model photography? I have similar goals so I wrote the books I wish I had access to when I was starting out with my photography.
• Workshop Survey – Thanks to everyone that has already registered their interest in my 2025 photography Workshops. I’m collecting your responses and will announce US workshops (and any others) in the main monthly newsletter. (1:1 London workshops are ran on a request basis so if you are planning to fly into the UK (or live here) get in touch to book a day to fit around your schedule).

FOMO (“Fear Of Missing Out”)

One thing I really struggle with is FOMO but it’s probably not in areas you might think – 

• Latest digital camera release? Near zero FOMO. Existing Leica cameras are so good I’m already very satisfied with the old models.
• New lens release? Minimal FOMO. I strive to review every new Leica M lens (all brands) when announced. (Lenses are usually sent to me on loan to test so I don’t need to buy them). My only FOMO with lenses are those from Light Lens Lab as they make limited batches and I’ve missed out on amazing lenses in the past. (Voigtlander have just discontinued their modern LTM lenses so I’m thankful I bought those).
• Sunshine? Massive FOMO. If I wake up to a dry day with sunlight in the UK I’m completely overwhelmed. Do I run? Do I cycle? Should I test lenses or make product photos? Should I record a YouTube video while there is light? I have at least 200% more energy and enthusiam on a bright day but I struggle to fit in all I want into that time. It makes me wonder if I should just relocate to somewhere brighter so I can 10x my productivity (and I’m far from lazy already*).

Help please!

If you’re a UK resident and perhaps a fellow self employed photographer/ YouTuber can you recommend a superstar personal tax accountant? I’d love to connect with them.  You can write to me here, many thanks!  (*Yes I was a former qualified accountant before cancelling my letters to become a full-time YouTuber but I worked for large US companies).

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New in LeicaLand 🔴 Mar25

Mid-month mentions for Blog Insiders – What’s new?

Leica related news

Two new lenses for Leica M mount –

• Voigtlander 35mm f3.5 Color-Skopar VM – You know I love super small lenses (Ideally screw mount LTM lenses like the discontinued Voigtlander Heliar 40mm f2.8 LTM that lives on my 1930s Leica Standard). This will be one of the smallest 35mm lenses for Leica M mount so I can’t wait to receive this lens to test. The plan will likely be to buy from Robert White as soon as they are available as my travel lens. (I will pair it with the super small Light Lens Lab 35mm viewfinder on cameras like the Leica MDa).
• Thypoch Simera 75mm f1.4 lens for Leica M – Thypoch kindly sent me their latest Simera lens to review. The 4th in the lens line-up. I’m waiting for the green light and I will share the YouTube video. Spoiler, it’s good! (Below is an example from Porto).

Thanks + Plan for 2025

Thank you for all the likes and comments on my recent YouTuber life is no longer realistic video. I was a little overwhelmed by all the kind messages of support. I took on board some of your suggestions and the current plan for 2025 will now include the following –

• Fewer YouTube videos – Drop from 8 videos per month to 5-6
• Regular posting schedule – Post new videos on the same day and time each week (I’ll do a poll on YouTube asking what day you prefer). Additional videos can fit between*
• Improved videos – Still lots of information and photos but vary the topics and formats
• More Patreon posts and videos each month. You can follow for free before signing up and Patreon is the best way to support the blog and YouTube channel.
• Write more useful blog posts – Up from 2 per month to 3-4
• Develop new MrLeica presets – For cameras I’ve not yet covered
• Work on next eBook – Blending actual photos and information on specific topic
• Get in the darkroom – Make small quantities of prints available for sale to super fans
• More discount codes and links – Reach out to companies and ask
• Teach more workshops – Leica and models (London mostly plus Europe and US)
• Remind people of remote workshops – I teach people remotely via Zoom 1:1 too 

Shout outs

Quick shout out to people I spoke to recently that I can highly recommend –

• Cameraworks UK – If you need a Leica film camera servicing definitely check out Cameraworks in the UK. I had a nice chat with Alan as I’ve sent him my Leica MDa for a CLA. I wanted to use a company that I can trust without needing to send the camera to Leica Wetzlar in Germany.
• Adam Peace – This is slightly more niche. Last month I asked you for help as I was looking for a recommended accountant. Steve Ellis kindly replied and suggested I spoke to Adam. If you are UK based and need an accountant to help you with your tax return give Adam a call. We had a chat and I was able to bounce some ideas off him.

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New in LeicaLand 🔴 Apr25

Leica news for Blog Insiders

Leica related news

Lots of updates this month in LeicaLand!

• Leica M11 discontinued – Leica discontinue their Leica M11. You can still buy the Leica M11-P M11-M, M11-D and the new gloss black Leica M11 model. I much prefer the P version with the top plate script and no red dotlike my M10-P. Maybe this means the rumoured Leica M11-V will soon be announced?

• Leica MP Silver discontinued – Sad news! I prefer the silver Leica MP like I had over the pretty but not so practical gloss black paint version. Maybe the silver model didn’t sell as well? If you want to buy a new Leica M film camera in silver in 2025 the only option will now be the silver Leica M-A. Silver looks timeless but I went for the stealthy black Leica M-A.  (Fellow YouTuber and street photographer Mike Chudley just bought a silver MP if you want to see one in action!) Perhaps Leica will release the Leica M6 re-issue in silver?

• Leica Summilux 50mm f1.4 Pre-ASPH re-issue – Great news! Leica recognise the trend that photographers are bored of perfect lenses on perfect sensors so re-release the fantastic Pre-ASPH 50mm Summilux. I borrowed the v2 50mm f1.4 Pre-ASPH original from a workshop student and the results are nicer than my modern 50mm f1.4 ASPH lens for digital.

• Voigtlander 35mm f3.5 Color-Skopar VM – New pancake lens for M mount. Amazing performer! Watch on YouTube and see here for 27x 35mm lenses for M mount. Available from Robert White in the UK. I’m buying the silver version!

• Voigtlander announce 3 new fast f1.2 lenses for Leica M – Voigtlander will release new Nokton lenses – 35mm f1.2 (iv), 40mm f1.2 (ii) and 50mm f1.2 (ii). As I understand, each lens will be lighter than previous models, with black nose not chrome nose and use a new lens hood. (Photographers that adapt M lenses to mirrorless cameras via autofocus adapts will be able to benefit from these lighter lenses. A Patreon has the Voigtlander 40mm f1.2 lens glued to his Sony via the TechArt autofocus adapter). Find reviews for existing lenses here: 35mm f1.2/ 40mm f1.2/ 50mm f1.2.

• Godox X3-L trigger for Leica – Finally Leica users can enjoy HSS flash (high speed sync) with the Godox X3-L. Now you can get creative with your lighting!  Watch the video where I show the trigger in use on the Leica SL/ CL and M10-P where I sync flash up to 1/8000. (Note, I’m told the X3-L doesn’t currently work on the M11).

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New in LeicaLand 🔴 May25

Leica news for Blog Insiders

Leica related news

Updates from LeicaLand!

• Leica M11-P Safari – Leica just release their latest Safari edition camera with the M11-P. If I had a dream M camera I think it would be a Safari edition as I love the silver on green finish, ever since my green Bessa R2. Lukas van der Lende did a great YouTube review of the different Leica Safari cameras.  (You might recognise Lukas from my YouTube video last night).

• Light Lens Lab 50mm f1.5 “Z1” – Inspired by the classic Angenieux S21 50mm f1.5 lens LLL bring us the Z1. The new LLL Z1 lens is now shipping and available on their website. I can’t wait to receive a copy to review! (Soon).

• Light Lens Lab 35mm f2 APO (Leica copy?) – You may have seen the rumours that LLL have make a remake of the modern high performance Leica Summicron 35mm f2 APO M lens. I wasn’t sure if it was true so I asked the question. Yes LLL are making a 35mm f2 APO lens but no it is not the same optical design as the Leica lens. I’m still excited to review it!

• Voigtlander announce 3 new f1.2 lenses for Leica M – The next lenses expected from Voigtlander for M mount are the remakes of the current 35mm, 40mm and 50mm Nokton f1.2 VM lenses. I’ve understand that the new lenses are optically identical to current versions but with a few changes such as smaller and lighter. Check Robert White in the UK for availability.

Leica for video?

Leica users generally don’t like video (so much so, that Leica removed the video feature from all Leica M cameras following the M240) BUT times are changing. In a world of SHORTS and REELS it’s nice to have a camera that offers both photos and video. 

I just bought the Leica SL2 for photos but to my surprise it’s the video that has won my heart. Just imagine using your favourite vintage Leica glass to make motion pictures. That beautiful Leica rendering and classic bokeh now captured on video. Leica SL series cameras make the dream a reality. 

As a photographer not a filmmaker, I approach video as I would photos. Using vintage Leica M, LTM and R lenses to record short video clips instead of stills. If you saw the Canon R5 vs Leica SL2 video that was all shot with Leica SL2/SL2-S cameras using M glass. See my full Leica video rig with 7″ monitor in last night’s video as I explore the topic further. 

• Patreon – We will soon reach 1000 members!
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New in LeicaLand 🔴 Jun25

Leica news for Blog Insiders

Leica related news

Updates from LeicaLand!

• Leica 28-70 Vario-Elmarit-SL f2.8 Zoom II – Leica release a new version of their compact 28-70 zoom lens for L mount cameras. This lens is originally based on the Sigma 28-70mm f2.8 DG DN lens.

• Brightin Star 28mm Safari – Following the Leica M11-P Safari last month Brightin Star released a limited edition 28mm pine green pancake lens. This lens has been on my to-review list forever so finally I’ve got a lens coming to test. (Sadly mine is the standard black lens not the limited edition but either way this is one of the smallest lenses for M mount).

• Light Lens Lab 50mm f1.5 “Z21” – If you need lots of character this lens is now shipping (see the video).

• New wide angle lenses for Leica M – I can’t say too much other than I’m testing some very nice new lenses which are in the pipeline for Leica M users. One should be dropping before the end of June so look out for my video. (I share in my Instagram stories if you follow me there – @MrLeicaCom).

• New Leica L mount lenses – If you enjoy using L mount cameras such as the Leica SL series, Leica CL (or Lumix bodies etc) I’m also both testing and consulting with brands for future lens releases. See the latest affordable autofocus L mount lens from 7Artisans verses Leica and Lumix in this video.

What lenses do we need?

As mentioned above, multiple lens brands are now asking me for my input as to what lenses they should make next, what specs we need, etc, so that’s really exciting. I’m used to testing lots of lenses for Youtube but I never thought I’d be in a position where companies ask me to help them right from the R&D / development stage. Let me know if you think we need a specific lens for either Leica M mount or Leica L mount?

Bye-bye Leica SL2

If you read the blog post I recently bought a Leica SL2. Sadly after only a few weeks I realised I’d made a mistake. I didn’t need 47MP as I crop in camera for my portrait work. For tighter crops I just step closer. I resented how fast I was filling up my computer hard drives so I sold the SL2 and bought a Leica SL2-S instead.  Shout out to Ben who had my SL2 for his product photography and thanks to Patreon Sundeep who kindly sold me his black Leica SL2-S (he got the sexy SL2-S Reporter version!)(Below, during a workshop).

Leica alternative

As a photographer but also a YouTuber, I need to consider cameras for their video features in addition to great images. The Leica SL2 really opened my eyes to what is possible with steady handheld video footage thanks to IBIS. Going forward the Leica SL2-S will be my primary “A” cam (photos and video) but often I need a “B” cam for BTS footage and as a backup. Leica don’t make a small L mount camera with great video features but thanks to the L mount alliance you can use the same lenses on Lumix cameras too. After lots of research I went for the Lumix S9 (similar form factor to my APS-C Leica CL but full frame). 

• Patreon – 1000+ members worldwide – Join us!
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• Presets – Try MrLeica presets for Lightroom
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• Workshops – London, Europe, US – Get in touch!
• YouTube – Subscribe for weekly videos
• Latest articles – Monthly written reviews
• Discount codes – Save money on your favourite brands

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