Leica M6

What’s up ya’ll, it’s been a while. I get really lazy to write these blogs, especially when there isn’t much going on. But, stuff has been going on lately. I went to my homeland in Guadalajara last month for my cousin's wedding, then went to the beach with the whole family for a few days. It was an awesome time. and a much needed vacation. But that’s not why I’m writing this blog today; this trip was the first time I got to test my newest camera……..drum roll……. The Leica M6. Yes, the overpriced, and perhaps overhyped Leica M6.

It’s no secret that Leica gear is some of the most expensive out there. And I'd lie if I said that I found banging deal that I could not pass up as the reason why I got the camera. The truth is that I just simply wanted the camera. That’s it. I’ve always wanted a Leica M6. Did the fact that the Leica M6 is a very hyped camera that a lot of known photographers on IG use help influence the decision of purchasing the camera? You bet your ass. But it’s an iconic camera, and an iconic brand. Some of the most iconic photographers have used this camera, and one who comes to mind whose work I absolutely love is Graciela Iturbide.

Full disclosure, photography is not my primary source of income; but I do gigs here and there. When I decided that I was going to save up for the M6, I challenged myself to not use any of my primary income to purchase the camera. And I’m happy to say that this camera was purchased with the money I earned from photography, plus a few gambling proceedings (hehe). I didn’t have to break an arm and leg to purchase the camera, which I’m thankful for.

In terms of the lens that I bought for this camera, I ended up going with a summicron 50mm V3 after much consideration and research. I initially wanted to buy a Zeiss Sonnar 50mm 1.5, but I just felt like I needed to get some Leica glass to really get the Leica experience. Leica glass does comes with a hefty price tag as well; it’s some of the best glass in the world, so it wasn't a cheap purchase (I did use some of my primary income for the lens).

I’m still a believer that photographers don’t need expensive gear to be great photographers. But I’m also a believer that you should buy whatever the fuck you want if you have the means to. I will say that this is probably the last film camera I’ll ever buy. It’s an expensive hobby and I don’t need more film cameras, I got the one I’ve always wanted. This camera is a lifer. A camera I will always keep with me, and I’ll shoot for as long as I can.

I just hope film prices don’t get too crazy. And if they do…. well.. ..I already own some Leica glass so, Leica M11 it is!