Why Switching From a Sony Mirrorless Camera to a Leica Camera Made Sense for Me

Switching gears in the world of photography can often feel like a leap of faith. The high cost of doing so doesn’t help either. Therefore, the decision to switch from one camera system to another is not taken lightly.

If anything, transitioning from a trusty Sony full frame mirrorless camera, the a7R II, to a Leica APS-C camera, the Leica CL, is daunting and scary, especially after being a big fan of using Sony mirrorless for almost a decade. Yet, for me, this move made perfect sense. Let me walk you through the reasons why after reflecting on my decision and navigating doubters for almost a year.

Size Does Matter

Firstly, size does matter. Recalling through my memories of being a hobbyist photographer, for the longest time my priority list has secretly always revolved around size. It took me a decade and countless camera and brand changes to realize I should stop ignoring it. Let me explain, the idea of carrying a small camera never really appealed to me for the longest time as also being a professional photographer, we are carrying no less than 20 kg of equipment all the time. And Sony at that point in time fulfilled the awkward middle ground of being a small size body and big in everything else. Despite all my efforts in trying to make it small for me to bring it out for a casual shoot, I always ended up with a bag full of lenses and batteries as I was being too afraid of missing out and compromises that I could not afford to have. Then here comes the introduction of Leica CL to me which I took a leap of faith into trying Leica again. This time around, the truly compact nature of the Leica CL appealed to me greatly. Months into using it, I realized a change in my shooting style, and most importantly I was no longer that afraid of missing out on shots and constantly working the compromises to my advantage with composition. This is also when I realize that I have slowly transitioned into a passive observer of a scene, documenting life without intruding on it. There is a weird way how Leica cameras facilitate a connection to people and surroundings in a way that larger, bulkier cameras couldn't.

Confidence Through Simplicity

Next, let’s talk about confidence, the elephant in the room that most people ignore. While the Sony a7R II is a high-resolution powerhouse that has all the technical capabilities that would swallow the Leica CL for breakfast, there is still something that Leica CL has that instills a different kind of assurance when photographing. When shooting with the Leica, there's a sense of 'getting the shot' that I hadn't experienced throughout my years of photographing with all the first and second-generation Sony mirrorless cameras. I suspect that it has something to do with the overall experience of operating the camera and the solidity of the camera. Having this amount of confidence through the simplicity of operating the camera would mean less time worrying about technicalities and more time fully immersed in the creative process and feeling the moment.

Compact Is Still the King

For the longest time, the debate of smartphone camera dominance has led many, including myself, to believe that the market no longer desires compact cameras. However, this overlooks a crucial distinction. Based on the current resurgence of high demand for compact cameras such as the Fujifilm X100V and Ricoh GR III, and my own experience of using a small compact camera, I strongly believe that it is not that photographers do not want compact cameras, but rather, they do not want a subpar one. These smaller cameras not only offer size and weight benefits but also remove barriers between photographer and subject. Imagine being in an intimate social setting, hiding behind a big camera can feel awkward, off-putting, and disconnected most of the time. Smaller cameras do the exact opposite, allowing a more natural interaction, and fostering genuine connection and conversations. And with the Leica CL’s discreet presence, it totally fulfills my requirements in capturing these moments authentically.

Aesthetic Appeal

In addition to the factors previously discussed, there's another aspect of the Leica camera that probably has nothing to do with photography which also contributed to my decision to make the switch. Its aesthetic appeal, if anything, this is probably the most fanboy thing every Leica owner will say. Unlike any Sony mirrorless camera, which screams "photographer" and attracts unwanted attention, the Leica CL exudes a timeless elegance that blends seamlessly into any environment, allowing me to document scenes without drawing unnecessary attention to myself. Furthermore, the Leica's aesthetic versatility extends beyond photography. It can double as a prop or fashion accessory when needed, seamlessly integrating into various contexts. Whether I'm shooting street scenes or attending a social event, the Leica complements my style without overshadowing it. This aesthetic allure adds another layer of appeal to the Leica camera, making it not only a practical tool for photography but also a statement piece that enhances my overall experience as a photographer.

Conclusion

When comparing the Leica CL to the Sony a7R II, it's clear that both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. While the Sony may excel in resolution and technical features, the Leica offers a different shooting experience altogether. And personally, It's not just about the specs. It's about how the camera feels in your hands and how it allows you to connect with your subjects on a deeper level and foster creativity through experimentation in your photography approach.

In conclusion, my switch from a Sony mirrorless to a Leica CL was a decision driven by a combination of factors, and each of these elements contributes to a more fulfilling and immersive photography experience. So, when considering your next camera upgrade, it is more important to ask yourself what kind of experience do you want to have behind the lens than to ask yourself what is the latest and greatest camera that you want.