Why do I want it so bad?

[Thomas Bertilsson]

So I'm testing a Leica M4-P, a camera borrowed from a generous fellow photographer. The camera is as it should be - used and wonderful.

I'll hand it to us Leica lovers: It is a marvel to use; a symphony in mechanical perfection, ease of handling, and precision.

My rational side says I don't need one. The other, not so rational, side to me screams I must have this camera, or another one like it.

Why do I want it so bad, when all I am really interested in (rationally) is the print and its quality?

Prints from either look remarkably similar at moderate enlargements of about 6x8 and 9x12. Some negatives cropped to using about 1/2 the negative area at those print sizes.

[decolorante]

I guess photographers aren't at all immune to the musician-typical Gear Acquisition Syndrome.
And I know something about that!

[Robert Hall]

Both a Volkswagen and a Ferrari will get you down the road; the ride, however, is much more enjoyable in the Ferrari.

[darkosaric]

I know how do you feel I wanted it also for long time: and on the end I got M6 and 50mm summicron. It is beauty and joy to use - but I don't see diference in print when comparing to nikon F3 (and 50mm or 105/2.5). I print up to 26x40 cm.

[Thomas Bertilsson]

One aspect I didn't think of is the long term investment. The camera is a little bit newer than the Pentax KX system I use now and about 5x the price tag.

The Leica, to me, feels mechanically more solid, so I would imagine it's more reliable.

One thing that irritates the b-jeebus out of me, though, is that I can't focus the durned thing while in vertical mode AND wearing eye glasses (blind as a bat without them). The ghost image disappears.

But it is lovely, and it handles well. And I will with 99% certainty purchase one.

Just making sure I'm not the only one feeling this way.

[darkosaric]

But it is lovely, and it handles well. And I will with 99% certainty purchase one.

Just making sure I'm not the only one feeling this way.

Start meditate about which lens you will buy first

[Thomas Bertilsson]

You mean like a mantra?

Start meditate about which lens you will buy first

[KWhitmore]

Don't do it Thomas! Just kidding...I like to rock the boat now and then. ;-0
Personally I have too many cameras (according to my "other") but if I could afford it... :-)

[Andrew Moxom]

It comes down to how much the confidence in your system plays into the image making process. Hassleblad, Leica, Mamiya, all have their following for many reasons. What we want and what we need are different, but all play a factor into the equation. Having known and admired your work for some time now, the camera is the least important aspect that I can see. However, if a specific camera helps you fulfill the way that you see and helps you convey your vision, then it's a no brainer, go for it. IF not, move on. Now if it appeals purely on an aethetic basis, that's different and always down to personal preference and no one but you can decide that in the end. What do you need in a camera? Reliability, consistency, accuracy, build quality. A leica will deliver all of that and more. However, I doubt it will change the quality of your images, as you are up there right now with the tools you currently use.

I know you want 'The Precious' though, so your mileage may vary and all advice aside. You can also treat yourself when you need to. You work, and work hard. You've also had a tough year. SO I'd say f**k it.. I'm treating myself! :-)

[jeffm2009]

Lol I think this is pretty common with us photographers - that Gear Acquisition Syndrome isn't just for musicians. I mean, remember when you got your first lens? and then your second... your third... probably followed soon after. And not because you needed them